Friday, March 28
Spring in the Offing
Power tool retailer celebrates season.
On the day before spring arrived this year, a stubborn bank of snow signaled the “pre-season” event held at Virginia Outdoor Power Equipment Co.
Thursday, March 27
Classified Advertising March 26, 2014
Read the latest ads here!
ArtStream Performances Return
Inclusive Theater Companies debut original musicals.
This spring, two original theatrical productions are hitting the stage of Gunston Theater One in Arlington. Brought to audiences by the non-profit organization, ArtStream, the productions have casts of talented adults with a range of disabilities.
McAuliffe Talks Medicaid Expansion
Patients share stories at Medicaid expansion roundtable.
Just a few days before the Virginia General Assembly convened in a special session in Richmond to decide on the budget and the possibility of Medicaid expansion, Gov. Terry McAuliffe met with patients of Alexandria Neighborhood Health Services in Arlington, as they shared with him how Medicaid expansion would change their lives for the better.
Wednesday, March 26
Chefs Discuss Spring Vegetables
When Dara Yaffe Lyubinsky was growing up in Potomac she always enjoyed cooking, whether it was with her family and friends, or for her synagogue. Today, she’s passionate about cooking fresh, seasonal meals. Lyubinsky, like many chefs and culinary enthusiasts, is looking forward to strolling through farmers markets and creating fanciful spring dishes with the season’s freshest bounty, especially as she prepares to return to D.C. from New York. However, she and other chefs are making the most of the available spring produce even if warm weather seems a like a distant dream. “Since it’s still so chilly outside, and the forecast is still calling for snow, we’re incorporating some of spring’s newest produce into some heartier, cold weather dishes,” said Lyubinsky, a professional personal chef and the owner of Tastes Like More Personal Chef Service (www.tasteslikemoreDC.com), a boutique culinary service. She’s also a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education and the University of Maryland, as well as a 2001 graduate of Thomas S. Wootton High School in Rockville.
Bishop O’Connell Softball Suffers Rare Defeat
After losing two all-Americans, Knights fall to Lake Braddock.
The Bishop O'Connell softball team recently suffered its third loss in three years.
Arlington Lifestyle Blooms in the Spring
The days are getting longer, the temperatures are on the rise, and Arlington residents are ready to finally enjoy the benefits of their urban neighborhoods. After what felt like an exceptionally long winter, people throughout Arlington have paid their dues and are planning their recreational activities for the upcoming months. Longtime locals and newer transplants to the area agree that a world of opportunities opens up in Arlington as springtime weather approaches. Whether in search of an endorphin rush, or somewhere to mingle with other Arlingtonians, places to go are aplenty and the area has more luster after the snow banks melt and the air loses its bite.
Editorial: Challenging Budgets
Local Government should be able to access income taxes to give relief on real estate taxes.
Northern Virginia governments are facing shortfalls in the classic budget sense: projected revenues are less than last year’s expenditures plus increases in costs.
Another Milestone
March 30, 2014. My age 59 and a half (9/30/54 is my date of birth). The age at which money deposited into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can be withdrawn without incurring a 10 percent early-withdrawal penalty from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Not that I’m retiring. I am remembering though when this cancer-centric life of mine began.
Virginia Bluebells: Native Spring Beauty
Carpets of bluebells coming soon to a park near you.
The Virginia Bluebells are coming. In early Spring, these native wildflowers will burst into bloom profusely throughout much of the Washington area. Botanically named Mertensia virginica, one of a number of species of Mertensia, Virginia Bluebells can be found in many moist, woodland areas, especially along streams and rivers. Depending on the weather, they first appear in early April as light pink buds, and then open into several shades of pink, blue and even white. In some areas along the local rivers they bloom in stunning profusion, creating a veritable carpet of color.
Spring Fun for Dogs
Say goodbye to the dreadful polar vortex and ring in warmer weather with your dog at James Hunter Park.
“Flourishing After 55”
“Flourishing After 55” from Arlington Office of Senior Adult Programs for April 7-12. Senior trips: Monday, April 7, U.S. Botanic Garden, D.C., $8; Wednesday, April 9, Brandywine River Museum, Chadds Ford, Pa., $35; Friday, April 11, Lee-Fendall House and Garden, Alexandria, $13. Call Arlington County 55+ Travel, 703-228-4748. Registration required.
‘Carmen’ Comes to Area
Virginia Opera brings "Carmen" to Center for the Arts.
Virginia Opera, the Official Opera Company of the Commonwealth of Virginia, will present Georges Bizet’s sultry tragedy about opera’s most famous femme fatale, "Carmen." The opera has enthralled audiences for more than a century and is one of the most popular. "Carmen" follows Don José and his ill-fated obsession with the alluring Carmen who tosses him aside for another man leading to jealous rage.
Commentary: Mental Health and Expansion of Medicaid
There is a growing consensus forming in the General Assembly that now is the time to improve the safety net for mental health services. Both the House and Senate budgets increase funding for these services by millions of dollars (House proposed a $10 million increase and the Senate $20 million) above the proposed budget of $36 million that Governor McDonnell presented in December.
‘Goal Is To Spot Kids in Crisis’
Police, others take suicide prevention training.
Although there have been four recent incidents of teen suicides in Fairfax County, the Police Department has planned to offer Suicide Awareness and Intervention Training for its officers since October 2013.
Friday, March 21
Celebrating Inclusion
Board of Supervisors Names March Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month.
The Board of Supervisors has designated March "Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month" in Fairfax County. Both those with disabilities and those without have their lives enriched when people with disabilities are fully included in the community. This special month seeks to help those with disabilities find ways to be involved in the community, and bring awareness to others of these engaged neighbors.
Thursday, March 20
Arlington Home Sales: February, 2014
In February 2014, 167 Arlington homes sold between $2,600,000-$135,000.
Arlington Home Sales: February, 2014
Wednesday, March 19
Seven Scouts Achieve Eagle Rank
The largest group of Scouts from Boy Scout Troop 167 in Arlington to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout was honored for their achievement on March 1 at Mt. Olivet Methodist Church. Those attaining Eagle Rank were: * Brian Claeys – junior, Gonzaga College High School, * Spencer Cobb – senior, Yorktown High School, * Nicholas Goryachev – junior, Yorktown High School, * Ross Kocher – junior, Yorktown High School, * Callan Rogers – senior, HB Woodlawn Secondary Program, * Andrew Schweser – senior, Wakefield High School, * David V. Wein-Kandil – senior, HB Woodlawn Secondary Program. The Scouts have been friends for several years and elected to participate together in the Eagle Court of Honor — the first time in the troop’s history to so honor a group of young men.
‘Anne of Green Gables’ Opens Friday
Aldersgate Church Community Theatre presents the Alexandria premiere of “Anne of Green Gables.” Relive all of the memorable events and characters from the in L.M. Montgomery’s enduring tale about an orphan, Anne Shirley — “Anne with an ‘e’” — who dreams big and leads with her heart. From her first encounter with Marilla, her austere guardian, to her thrilling graduation from Queen's Academy, we experience all the tragedies and triumphs that mark Anne's growth from adolescence to early adulthood: her friendship with Diana, her feuds with Gilbert, her adoration of Matthew, the mistaken wine bottle, the cake disaster, the broken leg, the scholastic achievements, and the saving of Green Gables. Whether the playgoer is an old “kindred spirit” of Anne's or meeting her for the first time, audiences will fall in love with one of literature's most unforgettable characters.
Lester M. Bridgeman
Lester M. Bridgeman, 90, a lawyer since 1951, died suddenly after a day at the office on Thursday, March 6, 2014. A native of Paterson, N.J., Mr. Bridgeman grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y., and was a long-time resident of Alexandria. He affiliated with a law firm based in Mobile, Ala. in the mid-1980s, and relocated there permanently about 25 years ago.After a brief period studying forestry at Syracuse University, Mr. Bridgeman joined the Army in 1943, attending (and playing football for) LSU until he volunteered for combat duty and was assigned to the 12th Armored Division. He was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge. Mr. Bridgeman was graduated from Syracuse’s College of Arts and Sciences cum laude in 1948 and from Columbia University’s School of Law. He worked for the Civil Aeronautics Board from 1951-53, leaving to become a Bigelow Teaching Fellow at the University of Chicago Law School.
Yorktown Girls’ Lacrosse Team Facing New Challenges
After eight straight National District titles, Patriots move to Conference 6
The Yorktown girls' lacrosse team won eight straight district titles before the VHSL's six-class re-alignment.
Editorial: Income Gap Alive and Well
Statistics make life in the area sound idyllic, but many families are left out in the land of plenty.
Northern Virginia is a place of wonder and plenty. So says the New York Times this past week in, "Income Gap Meet the Longevity Gap," (March 15, 2014).
No Know. No Problem.
I felt a bit of a dope this week when, after reading last week’s column, "Whew!", multiple friends called to inquire specifically as to the "Tony-the-Tiger Great" news I wrote that I received from my oncologist, and I couldn’t answer them in any detail: shrinkage, less fluid, "partial stable remission"? Nothing. And though I tried to get my oncologist to explain to me exactly what was so encouraging about this most recent CT Scan – compared to the one I took three months ago (as opposed to the one I had nine months ago which was mistakenly compared to this most recent scan and resulted in the "Some better, some worse. I’ll explain more on Friday" e-mail I received from my doctor and talked about in "Whew!") – I was rebuffed. Rebuffed in the best possible way: being told instead how great I was doing, how great my lab results were (for this most recent pre-chemotherapy) and how I could live a long time like this (presumably continuing to be infused with Alimta) – it was almost disconcerting; especially when you consider the original e-mail assessment we received and our less-than-positive interpretation of it. Moreover, the oncologist’s exuberance and smiling countenance, along with his offer of a congratulatory handshake led me away from the missing facts and immediately into these new-found feelings.
How To Prepare for New SAT
Local experts say working hard in class is the best way to be successful.
Linda Mitchell and her 15-year-old daughter, Alexis, say they don’t really know what to expect when Alexis sits for the SAT college admissions exam in 2016, but they’re not too worried at this point. Two years is a long time.
‘Oh Dad, Poor Dad’ To Debut in Arlington
The American Century Theater is presenting the Arthur Kopit farce, “Oh Dad, Poor Dad, Mamma’s Hung You in the Closet and I’m Feelin’ So Sad,” March 21-April 12 at Gunston Arts Center, Theatre Two, in Arlington. Described by the playwright as “a Pseudoclassical Tragifarce in a Bastard French Tradition,” this antic, absurdist black comedy about the most dysfunctional family imaginable was an Off-Broadway sensation in 1962 and a hardly-watched 1967 film starring Rosalind Russell, Barbara Harris, and Jonathan Winters. A farce in three scenes, “Oh Dad, Poor Dad …” tells the bizarre tale of wealthy, domineering mother Madame Rosepettle, who travels to a luxury resort in a Cuban hotel, bringing along her stuttering son, a man-eating Venus Fly Trap plant, a piranha, and her deceased husband, preserved and in his casket.
Art Educators, Galleries Celebrate Youth Art Month
Experts say art can teach valuable life skills.
Brightly colored self-portraits, landscapes dotted with spring flowers and hand-carved sculptures fill a gallery at the McLean Project for the Arts in McLean. All of the art was created by local school children. Meanwhile, in Alexandria, parents and tots dip their fingers in glue, clay and paint to create collages, sculptures and paintings.
Letter to the Editor: Historical Society’s Role in Arlington
I wish to commend “Arlington Connection” for the excellent article by Steve Hibbard (“Exploring Arlington History,” March 12-18) about efforts to capture and relate the history of Arlington County. The attention to the Arlington Historical Society (AHS), as well as the Center for Local History (CLH) at Central Library, the Black Heritage Museum, Arlington National Cemetery, and the County Office of Historical Preservation will benefit all Arlingtonians by letting them know what is going on and where to find out more about programs. It is worth mentioning that the Arlington Heritage Center, originally intended as a “one-stop” introduction for visitors to Arlington, could become a reality if space were to be found in the planned County building that will be part of redeveloped Courthouse Square.
Synetic Theater Stages “Hamlet”
Synetic Theater is remounting Shakespeare’s “Hamlet … the rest is silence,” the abstract and wordless show that struck gold for them in 2002 when it debuted in Washington. This silent rendering stars Alex Mills, 24, as Prince Hamlet, Irina Tsikurishvili as Gertrude, Iraakli Kavsadze as Claudius and Irina Kavsadze as Ophelia. To help celebrate the Bard’s 450th birthday this year, Synetic took an abstract approach to the tragedy set in Denmark by using sparse sets, minimal props (originally by Georgi Alexi-Meskhishvili), dramatic lighting design (by Brittany Diliberto), minimal black-and-white costumes (Claire Cantwell) and intense sound design (Irakli Kavsadze). Synetic is best known for fusing the classical elements of drama, movement, mime, dance and music. The storyline of “Hamlet” centers on the revenge the grief-stricken Prince Hamlet exacts on his uncle Claudius for murdering Hamlet’s father, Claudius’s brother. He succeeds to the throne and takes his wife Gertrude, Hamlet’s mother. The play explores everything from incest to revenge to madness and corruption.
The Annual Shamrock Crawl
Clarendon Boulevard was filled with participants on the annual Shamrock Crawl on Saturday. March 15.
EN Bistro and Sushi Opens in the Village
The word EN in Japanese means destiny — and it seems the fate of EN Bistro and Sushi is to bring the freshest of sushi, sashimi, Japanese, Chinese and Thai food to Potomac residents. With the freshness and quality of his sushi and menu items, well-known Montgomery County sushi chef and restaurateur Billy Ye is already making his mark on the Potomac restaurant scene.Located just behind the Verizon store in the Potomac Village Shopping Center (near Tally Ho and next to Big Wheel Bikes), the space has been built out into a Japanese bistro, complete with a kimono, once owned by a famous Japanese movie actor. The kimono was sent to Ye by his mother many years ago — and he has been waiting to find the just right spot for hanging it.
United Way Awards $259,862 to Nonprofits
United Way of the National Capital Area recently awarded 20 grants totaling $259,862 to member organizations serving Arlington. The funds came through designations to the Arlington Community Impact Fund in United Way NCA's annual workplace giving campaign. Each of the grants addresses programs that fall within United Way NCA's focus areas of education, financial stability and health.In total, $1.7 million was raised through Community Impact Funds in United Way NCA's eight regions thanks to the support of employees from more than 800 workplaces with more than 3,000 locations throughout the Washington, D.C. region.
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield’s Contributions to Arlington Free Clinic Top $1 Million
March 05, 2014 - Baltimore — CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) plans to contribute another $110,000 to Arlington Free Clinic to help the Northern Virginia health clinic better coordinate care during the next year for more than 500 uninsured patients – many of who have chronic diseases that require increased monitoring and adherence to strict medication schedules. Arlington Free Clinic intends to use CareFirst’s latest funding to strengthen its relationship with its network of community medical partners, equip diabetic patients with more resources and education to help them control their disease, and increase its patients’ compliance with recommended immunization schedules.
Eleanor Bune Celebrates Her 96th
Sharp as a tack and mentally “with it” as a younger person, Eleanor Bune, an Arlington resident, is not missing a beat. On March 14, she turned 96-years-old. With a full head of her own hair that often draws compliments from strangers, she had her hair done on her birthday and wanted to look her best for a night out on the town. Her birthday was celebrated at Essy’s Carriage House in Arlington with her daughter, Karen L. Bune, and friends.
Tuesday, March 18
Classified Advertising March 19. 2014
Read the latest ads here!
Thursday, March 13
Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Spring
Experts suggest a yearly spring maintenance check-up.
With warmer weather just around the corner, it’s time to focus on your home.
Getting Your Garden Ready for Spring
Local experts tell you what you should do now, in spite of the cold weather.
It doesn’t feel like spring. Last week’s snow made it seem like warm weather might never arrive, so planting a garden might be the last thing on your mind. However, local gardening experts say this is the ideal time to start preparing your landscape to yield colorful spring foliage. Bill Mann, of Behnke Nurseries in Potomac, Md., said spring garden preparation plans differ from year to year. "It depends on the landscape beds you have and whether or not you’re planning to put in a vegetable garden," he said.
Whimsy Meets Elegance
Potomac designer creates playful yet polished home for family of five.
When an active family of five approached Potomac interior designer Sharon Kleinman and asked her to give their home a makeover, they wanted a whimsical yet polished space.
Kitchen Confidential
From light-filled to dramatic, local designers create dream kitchens.
When Allie Mann of Arlington, a designer and senior interior specialist at Case Design/Remodeling, Inc. was tasked with giving the first floor of a McLean, Va., home a face lift, she had to think free-flowing and airy.
Arlington Family Outgrows Home but Stays Put
Family builds addition to accommodate their growing needs.
When a family of five realized that they’d outgrown their home in the Cherrydale neighborhood of Arlington, they pondered two options: purchase a new home or build an addition onto their existing home. They decided to stay in their home.
15th Biennial Ikebana Show at the Art League
Twenty-five members of the Washington, D.C., branch of the Sogetsu School participated in the 15th biennial Ikebana Show at the Art League in the Torpedo Factory last week.
Near Zero Temps Call for Back-to-Basic
What mid-winter maintenance can reveal about your home’s needs.
While common sense suggests that home improvements should be put off to warmer weather, a sustained period of colder temperatures often reveals systemic problems that will need correction sooner or later. As temperatures dropped precipitously several weeks ago, all Reston homeowner Craig Mattice knew was that his original mansard roof was plagued with ice dams and his 10-year-old, 600-square-foot addition was so cold the pipes were freezing. Moreover, no amount of thermostat adjustment improved the situation much.
Northern Virginia's Growing Debt Burden
Local governments use debt as a tool to build for the future.
Back in the 1920s, Harry Byrd became governor of Virginia on what he called a "pay-as-you-go" platform.
Wednesday, March 12
Wakefield Boys' Basketball Team Loses in State Semifinals
Tham scores 26 points, grabs 22 of Warriors’ 30 rebounds.
The Wakefield boys' basketball team lost in the state semifinals for the second straight season.
Empty-Nesters Re-invent the Family Home
Built-ins, cleverly articulated interior increase usable space without need to add-on.
Sometimes life’s second act requires a bold set change. How else are others to know that the featured players have moved on, embracing new beginnings?
Van Metre Wins Sales, Marketing Awards
Van Metre Homes won eight Silver Awards at the 2014 National Sales and Marketing Awards, hosted by the National Sales and Marketing Council.
Classified Advertising March 12, 2014
Read the latest ads here!
The D.C. Design House Designers Announced
Some of the area’s top designers competed for an opportunity to donate their talent to transform a local, grand home into a showcase home. Local designers chosen to help transform the 2014 DC Design House include:
Garden Club of Virginia Celebrates 81st Tour
House and garden tours will take place across Virginia during the 81st Historic Garden Week. Garden week runs from Saturday, April 26-Saturday, May 3.
Editorial: Voting Against Virginia?
Local proponents of expanding health coverage for poor people have a point about those in the General Assembly voting against it.
When Delegates Scott Surovell, Charniele Herring and Rob Krupicka, along with Sen. Adam Ebbin got together to make the case for expanding Medicaid in Virginia, they brought slide presentations, charts, spreadsheets, poll results and more.
Whew!
Originally, this column was to be a discussion about the communication process between my doctor and this patient. Specifically, the time lag between when tests are performed/completed and when those results are communicated to the doctor who in turn – per this patient’s request, e-mails them to me. In the olden days, results were most likely offered up in person; in the post-olden days, more likely a phone call was made; presently, at least in my experience, results most likely will be e-mailed. I imagine an enduring problem for the patient – during all three "days," has been the time waiting for test results and hearing about them from your doctor. Excruciating is one of the most accurate characterizations of that delay, combined with an unhealthy dose of helplessness. Eventually, if you live long enough, you sort of become accustomed to the process and learn to roll with the punches, both figuratively and literally. Nevertheless, the patience and experience you learn can’t totally stop the rampant speculation that keeps you up at night and sleepy during the day.
Mr. Horejsi Goes to Richmond
In the fight for social justice with patience and persistence.
Every year, dozens of high-priced lobbyists descend on Virginia’s state capitol.
County Recognizes 2013 DESIGNArlington Winners
The Arlington County Board honored the winners of the county’s DESIGNArlington awards on Feb. 25
Serving Up Smorgasbord of Local History
There’s a lot going on in Arlington’s history — this being the 150th anniversary of Arlington National Cemetery, and the 200th anniversary of the burning of Washington. And there’s a lot going on in the Arlington Historical Society (AHS) as well.
Historic Arlington Events
A collection of historic events occurring in Arlington.
Historical Events in Arlington
A selection of historical events occurring in Arlington.
Arlington Theater Company Earns WATCH Awards
Dominion Stage took home multiple honors from Washington Area Theatre Community Honors (WATCH) for artistic and technical excellence in Community Theater.
AWLA in Midst of ‘Care and Transform’ Campaign
Funds will expand facility for cats and small animals.
Animal Welfare Leagues animals getting a new home.
Understanding WWII Decisions
Yorktown High junior studies military history in Normandy and New Orleans.
“On Omaha Beach, there were bunkers everywhere. And tons of it is still there. They still have the craters.”
Third Graders Learn About Black History
Learning about Black History
Dozens of children gathered to listen to a story from Reading Is Fundamental’s newly launched Multicultural Book Collection.
Ageless Beauty Peers over Lee Highway
An eye-catcher on display.
Model T Ford on display at Mr.Tire.
Picture Perfect Pieces
Student art on display at Central Library.
Scholastic Award winning pieces return to the Central Library.
State Budget Still Unfinished
Why the General Assembly’s 60-day legislative session adjourned on Saturday without a completed budget for the new fiscal year starting July 1.
Thursday, March 6
Editorial: Take the Money
No downside to gaining health care for 200,000 or more; 30,000 jobs and millions of dollars for hospitals from expansion of Medicaid.
Gov. Terry McAuliffe is right to make expansion of health coverage part of the budget process.
Arlington Schools Scramble to Fund Enrollment in Challenging Budget Environment
$439.4 million budget represents a 3.1 percent increase over last year.
Arlington Superintendent Patrick Murphy's proposed budget for the coming school year would scale back a program aimed at helping students older than age 22, add trailers to deal with the crush of new students as well as add four new bus drivers and create a new coordinator for transporting special-equation students.
Wednesday, March 5
Letter to the Editor: Educate Drivers About Bicyclists
To the Editor: Bike Lanes on King Street are unsafe but even more, they are unnecessary.They are unnecessary because: 1. There are alternate safe paths for bicyclists to the metro and Old Town. 2. Those few bicyclists who use this route have a direct route to the Metro and beyond using the vehicle lanes on King Street.
Letter to the Editor: Conscientious Employee
To the Editor: Virginia Hospital Center excels in many medical arenas and is a stand-out in the region. However, aside from its outstanding medical reputation and recent glowing achievement of the hard earned Magnet Nursing status, it appears the hospital leaves no stone unturned when it comes to excellence. The Starbucks located in the lobby of the hospital is a well-attended gathering hole for popular drinks and good pastries. As a true lover of lattes, I am a frequent customer when I visit the hospital or adjacent medical offices.
Diabetes Research
Jake and his mother Jennifer Reilly, a dietitian, attended the 4th annual Type 1 Diabetes Research Summit on Saturday. March 1.
Spring Fling at Swanson Middle School
The PTA at Swanson Middle School held its 2nd annual Spring Fling on Saturday, March 15, in the school gym. The juried arts and crafts show and sale featured jewelry, paintings, quilts, knitted items, birdhouses made from gourds, hand-painted glassware, vintage cards and more.
Letter to the Editor: Parking in District 1
To the Editor: In his letter of Feb. 22, Nate Macek offers a questionable set of recommendations on parking in Old Town, which begins with the faulty assumption equating Old Town’s street grid with that of Clarendon and the District. Referencing a Google map of Old Town and Clarendon shows extremely different systems, and simply citing “the District” is like comparing Old Town to Nebraska.
Stratford Landing Hosts Annual Science and Engineering Fair
Stratford Landing Elementary School students presented 304 projects at the annual Science and Engineering Fair on Tuesday, Feb. 25. Students displayed and explained their investigations to 25 visiting experts from West Potomac High School and the Geological Society of America. All of the visiting experts engage in teaching and studying advanced biology, chemistry, geology, and physics.
How Best To Restore Dyke Marsh?
The draft Dyke Marsh Restoration Plan and Long-Term Management Plan/ Environmental Impact Statement is available for public comment until March 18. The National Park Service presented three options for the restoration and long-term management of Dyke Marsh at a public meeting on Feb. 26. NPS is recommending alternative C, which would restore up to 245 acres of wetland. This alternative allows for Dyke Marsh to be restored as much as possible, using hydrologic restoration. In October 2013, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced that Dyke Marsh would receive $25 million for restoration.
Beyer Wins Mount Vernon Democrats’ Straw Poll
Former ambassador Donald Beyer won the first straw poll battle for the outgoing U.S. Rep. Jim Moran’s 8th district seat on Saturday night, March 1 with 25 percent of the vote (105 votes). Community leader Lavern Chatman came in second with 20 percent of the vote, and Del. Patrick Hope of Arlington received 19 percent. 419 of those in attendance coast their votes in the primary straw poll and about 470 Democratic activists attended the event. Bruce Shuttleworth did not attend because of a previous engagement.
Brief: Six Republicans Will Compete For 10th District Nomination
On March 1, the 10th District Republican Committee released the names of the candidates for their nomination for Congress. Six candidates filed by the deadline, said 10th District GOP Chairman John Whitbeck in a release. ”We ... feel like we are in an excellent position to hold the 10th District Congressional seat in November regardless of who the Democrats nominate.
Slates Set for Primary Elections
The filing deadline for candidates who plan to run for their party’s nominations was Feb. 25, and many races for local and state offices are now set. The Primary Election is scheduled for June 24. Currently there are no elected Republicans from Montgomery County, so in many cases the winners of the Democratic primary on June 24 will be the likely winner in November. Here is a list of candidates in some offices representing the Potomac area.
Signature Stages ‘Beaches’
Signature Theatre is presenting the musical “Beaches” about a 40-year friendship based on the 1988 movie starring Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey, now through March 30.
Schools Present Choral Concert
Centreville High and Liberty Middle schools will unite in song to present a Spring Choral Concert, next Thursday, March 13, at 7:30 p.m. The free concert will be held in the Centreville High auditorium. Afterward, the audience is invited to join the performers for a reception in the lobby.“It’s some of the most beautiful music they’ve studied all year,” said Centreville Choral Director Lynne Babcock. “It really shows off their musical skill and talents.”Liberty’s 90-person choir, under the direction of Nancy Hayes, will be singing first. The students will perform “The Bells,” “S’Vivon” and “Kyrie.”“I’m so happy that our students can share a concert together,” said Hayes. “This way, the middle-school students are hearing the high-school choirs at their very best. And hopefully, it will inspire them to continue singing in choir when they get to Centreville High.”Centreville will showcase 125 singers in six choirs, each performing separately.
Welcoming New Animal Services and Adoption Center
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, County Council President Craig Rice, Council members Phil Andrews, Nancy Navarro, and Montgomery County Police Chief J. Thomas Manger celebrated the completion of the new Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center at a preview opening reception on Friday evening, Feb. 28, it was standing room only as visitors toured the new space.
MVHS Hosts History Day Competition
On March 1 at Mount Vernon High School the National History Day Competition took place.
Letter to the Editor: Divided MVCCA
To the Editor: Last week, the MVCCA suffered a mini-implosion resulting from the controversial request by Furnace Associates, Inc. for a Special Exemption Amendment (SEA) permitting them to continue operating a landfill in the Lorton area until the year 2040, 22 years beyond the deadline imposed by the current Special Exemption. At last Wednesday's MVCCA's Council meeting, a resolution originating from its Environment & Recreation (E&R) Committee was debated and passed, after a contentious debate, by the slim margin of 10-9. The resolution was in opposition to the proposed SEA. Noteworthy to me is the fact that the MVCCA resolution makes no mention whatsoever of the position of the South County Federation (SCF) in opposition to the proposed SEA. During my brief time as chairman of the MVCCA's Planning & Zoning (P&Z) Committee, it was my strict policy to defer to the wishes of the SCF concerning any land use issues on lands in the South County area where its residents were most directly impacted. The MVCCA's continuing paternalistic attitude toward the SCF and its member associations and residents significantly reduces the MVCCA's influence concerning such issues. This needs to change.
Commentary: One Week Left for General Assembly
We have one more week before the General Assembly Session is scheduled to adjourn, and pressure is mounting to finish our work. On Friday, live on WTOP, Governor McAuliffe signed legislation repealing the $64 per year Hybrid Tax and mandating refunds to everyone who paid. I am pleased that we will no longer be taxing virtuous conduct and that the wishes of 7,700 Virginians expressed in the petition I circulated with Sen. Adam Ebbin were honored. Closing the healthcare coverage gap or the Medicaid expansion continues to dominate the discussion in Richmond.
Celebrating the Birthday Of Dr. Seuss
Teachers and students came dressed as their favorite storybook characters on Feb. 28.
News Brief: Honor Band
The following West Potomac High School students successfully auditioned into the all district honor bands.
WFCM Seeks Contributions
Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) believes people in the community can provide hope for local families facing financial hardships. Toward that end, it’s launching its annual Bread and Water fundraising campaign.For any four-week period they choose between March and June, businesses, churches and other groups wishing to participate will receive water bottles to fill with coins, cash or checks (made payable to WFCM). Even a small amount of spare change — when added to all the other donations received — can assist WFCM in making a big difference in the lives of those whom it helps.
Classified Advertising March 5, 2014
Read the latest ads here!
License to Chill
March came in like a lion, with Mother Nature dumping several inches of snow on the region March 3 as city governments and local schools closed in the wake of yet another storm that brought life across Alexandria to a crawl. “I am not a fan of this weather but thought I would try and get some enjoyment out of this last storm,” said @Home Real Estate and Design Center Realtor Christine Sennott. “My boyfriend and I packed on our winter gear and went for a walk about town. The streets were desolate with random residents shoveling walk ways and an occasional barking dog the only sound to be heard.” With snow totals ranging from 2.5 to 8 inches, the latest round of winter weather brought icy conditions and subfreezing temperatures to Alexandria just days after sunshine bathed the city's annual St. Patrick's Day parade.
Justin Wolfe Retrial for Murder Will Proceed
For Justin Wolfe and his family, it’s been one setback after another. So it pretty much came as no surprise to them that the Supreme Court last week declined to intervene in his retrial on drug and murder charges. Still, his mother couldn’t help but hope. “It has been 13 years now that my son has been in solitary confinement for a crime he did not commit,” said Terri Steinberg. “It is time for them to admit to their mistakes and let him go home. The money wasted on this case could be better spent elsewhere.”
Encore Presents ‘Sherlock Holmes’
Join Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they set out to solve their first case in the 21st century. There they meet Marilyn Monroe, George Washington, Tarzan, Count Dracula, and other characters — or so they claim. Sherlock and Watson are in the Freudley Institute, so it’s no wonder Holmes gets treated like any other patient. Will Sherlock be able to prove he is the real Sherlock Holmes and solve a murder on the grounds of the Institute?
Creating a Harmonious Family Life
Local experts offer tips for keeping your family happy.
As Elizabeth Rees drove her daughter and two of her daughter’s friends to a library reading group recently, the Alexandria mother of three admits that she felt like a chauffeur at first. But she had a change of heart after hearing sounds of laughter.
Not Yet, Really
While we’re exchanging pleasantries here, in semi real time – although this column will not be most read until March 6th (I need to submit it on Monday, March 3rd as we go to press on Tuesday, March 5th), I feel the obligation, given how last week’s column ended, to update you on the results from my February 26th CT Scan. Presumably, by the title you all have determined that as of this writing, Saturday, March 1st, I have not heard back from my oncologist. Typically, I would have already heard from him, electronically. But so far, not a peep, electronic or otherwise and believe me, I’ve been checking, as you might imagine.
Board Advertises Higher Tax Rate
Rate gives board flexibility, options in determining final budget.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted 8-2 Tuesday to advertise a higher real estate tax rate that could add about $100 to annual tax bills, which will be on top of the $332 county homeowners will see this year as a result of higher real estate assessments. Setting the advertised tax rate formally begins the two-month public process to adopt the Fiscal Year 2015 budget, and the rate represents the maximum potential tax rate for FY2015.
Preventing Teen Suicides
Recent deaths shine light on FCPS suicide prevention programs.
Every 15 seconds, a teen in the United States tries to commit suicide. Every 90 minutes, one succeeds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reports that the number of attempted suicides among teenagers increased from 6.3 percent in 2009 to 7.8 percent in 2011.
Cox Charities Virginia Awards Area Nonprofits
Cox Communications awarded $160,000 in grants to 25 nonprofit organizations in Virginia through Cox Charities grants programs. The grants presented Feb. 21 are part of the nearly $8 million Cox contributes annually through cash and in-kind support to the communities where they do business.