Thoughts and prayers
Transcription
Thoughts and prayers
WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 1 Alexandria’s only independent hometown newspaper Vol. 8, No. 51 december 20, 2012 City council ‘Thoughts and prayers’ unites behind Union Street School officials respond to Newtown tragedy By derrick perkins Makeover changes include bike lanes, widened crosswalks By Melissa Quinn The Alexandria City Council paved the way for Union Street, one of Old Town’s busiest thoroughfares, to get a makeover in the not-too-distant future Saturday. The Port City’s topelected officials approved short-term recommendations in the Union Street study and gave staff the go-ahead to look further into longer-range improvements. The short-term changes include space for cyclists to make a left turn at the Mount Vernon Trail and Oronoco Park; a walking corridor between Oronoco and Pendleton streets; new paving lines at the intersection of Queen and Union streets to indicate bike lanes; part-time parking restrictions between Prince and King streets; widened crosswalks; raised crosswalks near Windmill Hill Park; turn restric- tions; and the creation of a pedestrian plaza on the south side of King Street. “[This] is really very exciting and very imaginative, and I think this helps us as we move forward,” said City Councilor Del Pepper. The board also adopted an amendment delineating the boundaries of Windmill Hill Park to include treatment of the intersection of Franklin and Union streets. But — unsurprisingly given the street’s proximity to the shoreline — the slew of recommended improvements met with a bit of controversy. Resident Bert Ely, an opponent of the waterfront redevelopment plan, called on city councilors to shelve the plan, which drew a sharp reply from Vice Mayor Kerry Donley. “There’s no reason for us not to go forward with the short-term recommendations,” Donley said. “And you don’t exactly have the reputation for being a forward-thinking person [Bert] ... if the boot fits, wear it.” The city undertook the Union Street study after passing the shoreline redeSEE union | 8 As the scope of the tragedy in a small Connecticut town became clear, officials with Alexandria City Public Schools began preparing to help students — and parents — deal with the horror wrought by a single gunman. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.,” wrote Superintendent Morton Sherman in an email sent districtwide Friday afternoon. “We want to assure our ACPS families that our security systems are mindful of the need to protect each and every child. The sad reality is that we as a national educational community have learned lessons about how to deal with crises such as today’s mass shooting.” At William Ramsay Elementary School, for example, teachers and administrators banded together to address the devastating news, taking a nuanced approach to answering questions from students and their adult guardians. After greeting students arriving for school Monday as a staff — as usual — administrators began scheduling meetings with concerned parents. “We’ve actually given the parents an opportunity to come We want to assure our ACPS families that our security systems are mindful of the need to protect each and every child.” -Morton Sherman ACPS Superintendent SEE tragedy | 9 Photo/Verena Radulovic Paying respects Daniel Cudda prepares to place a wreath on the grave of a Civil War veteran as his father, Joseph Cudda, looks on with his other son, Peter Cudda, and their friend, Henry Anderson (far right), during a remembrance ceremony at Alexandria National Cemetery on Saturday. Joseph Cudda recently served in Afghanistan. lady titans dream big - page 14 2 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Happy Holidays from Pr udential PenFed Realty Did you hear what people are saying about Prudential PenFed Realty? Hear it from a few of our clients: Thank you very much for getting us successfully through the complicated sale of 205-207 King Street… I appreciated the calm manner with which you tackled one Nancy Macklin frenzied issue after another. Terri was great to work with and led me every step of the way... I really appreciated Terri Brevig that she was as excited about my new home as we were. I have already recommended her to my friends. Patricia White Stuart Piper Sue Elbertson Tricia is an extraordinary stager and a delight to work with! Stu did an excellent job showing my house! I left the area shortly after listing it but he took really good care of it. Bob Cooper Allan has been a wonderful help and a blessing to work with. A true professional ... Allan Knutsen I would not hesitate to give him my highest recommendation to anyone looking for a Realtor in the Northern Virginia area. Judy Miller Thank you for helping us in procuring this lovely…the process concluded with ease, good will, and ultimate satisfaction-a job well done by Judy. Sue is fantastic! She really made it easy and stressfree for me to buy my first place. I felt completely comfortable trusting her. I was fortunate to work with Bob. He listened, analyzed and responded to my needs. Dolly is fabulous. She instantly knows what you’re looking for and patiently shows the Dolly Woodruff spectrum of possibilities. A wonderful experience! Lynn Humphries Your personal assistance, diligence and professionalism was most appreciated. We couldn’t have asked for a better agent. Miguel Garcia From the moment we initially met Miguel, we knew we were in great hands. Thank you to all of our friends and clients for a wonderful year! 703-836-1464 • Maxine McLeod Miller, Managing Broker • 300 N. Washington St. • Suite 100 • Alexandria, 22314 An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation with Prudential. Prudential-PenFed Realty is an independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. PenFed Membership is not required to conduct business with Prudential-PenFed Realty. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 3 THE WEEKLY BRIEFING Turbo-Charged Auto Loans with special rates! Plus, No Payment for 90 Days! Hurry! Offers End 12/31/2012. Rates As Low As 1.49% 1.99% 3.49% APR New cars APR APR Used cars 2007 and newer Used cars 2006 and older (855) GO COFCU • Visit cofcu.org Federally Insured by NCUA Rates effective 12/01/2012 and subject to change. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Other rates and terms apply. Rates include ½% discount for checking bundle and automatic payment. Membership eligibility required for promotion. See cofcu.org for full details. courtesy Photo GOOD TIDINGS Members of the T.C. Williams Choir left the high school auditorium and went out into the community to spread holiday cheer last weekend. The high school vocalists belted out carols while collecting donations for the program, which will go toward scholarships, appearances by professional performers and guest teachers for master classes. Walker Home bests the competition to win Window Wonderland Award again Walker Home, an eclectic furniture and accessory store, wrapped up the Old Town Boutique District’s Window Wonderland contest for the second consecutive year. Spirited small businesses compete in the annual contest, which judges what store creates the best display of holiday cheer for customers and passers-by. For two weeks, shoppers have voted online for their favorite and found Walker Home’s holiday spirit the best in the bunch. The winner of the contest received the Window Wonderland Award and banner from Mayor Bill Euille, OTBD officials and Patricia Washington, CEO of the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association. Home Real Estate, a real estate lounge and design center, received second place, and local specialty yarn and fiber arts store fibre space took the bronze. This year’s voters also were entered in a contest to win Breakfast with Santa tickets. - Ana Rampy Bank backs RTA with $5K check Rebuilding Together Alexandria, a local nonprofit aimed at helping low-income residents, got a boost from John Marshall Bank earlier this month. Ted Johnson, the bank’s regional executive, presented a $5,000 check to RTA Executive Director Katharine Dixon on December 5. The money will go toward RTA’s efforts, including a slew of energy efficiency projects for struggling homeowners. “Rebuilding Together Alexandria is dedicated to repairing and rehabilitating homes free of cost for those in need, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, military veterans and families with children,” Johnson said. “Our bank is pleased to play a role assisting its mission.” Bank officials plan to announce more charitable donations to local organizations in the coming weeks. - Ana Rampy 4 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES CRIME Police arrest two on robbery, assault by mob Alexandria police say two men face multiple charges after beating and robbing a man who was leaving a party on the 5700 block of Sanger Avenue last week. Gabral Sammy and Deon Traynhamm, both of Alexandria and 20 years old, allegedly confronted the victim and punched him at 12:50 a.m. December 10. They then stole the partygoer’s cash but later were picked up by police officers, said department spokesman Jody Donaldson. The victim was treated for a broken nose at Inova Alexandria Hospital. He was alone when he was attacked, officials said, and there are no other known witnesses to the assault. Police charged the duo with robbery and assault by mob, though the mugging remains under investigation. Scream deters would-be burglar Authorities believe a 900 block Manor Road resident scared off a potential burglar earlier this month. The woman screamed after watching a gloved hand open her unlocked bathroom window at 6:38 p.m. December 10, said Jody Donaldson, Alexandria Police Department spokesman. alextimes.com The would-be burglar fled before the victim could get a description and remains at large, police said. Authorities do not believe the individual tried to enter any surrounding apartments. Identity theft cases continue to emerge Alexandria police learned of another case of identity theft December 10, the latest in a string of incidents involving residents’ credit and debit cards. The victim noticed the fraudulent activity after being notified by a store about a purchase — one the victim did not make — said department spokesman Jody Donaldson. At least three other residents have reported fraudulent credit and debit card purchases in recent weeks. Several were linked to a store in New York, police said. Authorities do not know if all of the cases are linked and do not have any suspects. The incidents remain under investigation. Thieves target unlocked car One or more thieves looted a car parked along the 200 block of Guthrie Ave. last week, Alexandria police say. While they stole only loose change, the thieves ransacked the interior of the car, glove box and center console. The car was left unlocked, police said. It wasn’t until 9:59 a.m. December 11 that the victim noticed his car had been scoured. Authorities believe the individuals struck overnight, said Jody Donaldson, department spokesman. There were no known witnesses, and police were unable to obtain a description of the suspects. It is unknown whether any surrounding cars were broken into as well. - Melissa Quinn POLICE BEAT The following incidents occurred between December 12 and December 19. 35 Thefts 10 Assaults 0 1 Drug Crimes 7 Vehicle thefts 8 Breaking & Enterings 3 ROBBERies 2 Assaults with a Deadly weapon SEXUAL OFFENSE Source: crimereports.com *Editor’s note: Police reports are not considered public information in Virginia. The Alexandria Police Department is not required to supply the public at large with detailed information on criminal cases. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM No Co-Pay Flu Shots * at Get your Fast Track Anytime Flu Shot**— with little or no waiting— at any Patient First Neighborhood Medical Center now. • NO CO-PAY if Patient First participates with your insurer* • Open 8 am to 10 pm, 365 days a year • Walk-in, no appointment necessary • All major insurance plans accepted Alexandria 6311 Richmond Highway (703) 647-6087 . y. wy sH g Kin Walmart Hw current student body. However, several residents expressed concern regarding the flow of traffic in the neighBy Melissa Quinn borhood and the school’s aca The Alexandria City Coun- demic achievement issues. has cil gave school officials the “Jefferson-Houston been contentious and was on a green light to move ahead with construction of a new Jefferson- tad difficult path, and as a result, Houston School in a unanimous my neighborhood is devoid of children over the age of 6 years vote Saturday. The decision to approve old,” said Poul Hertel. rezoning came after city coun- The school recently lost cilors heard testimony from stu- its state accreditation and has dents, school board members struggled to meet Richmond’s benchmarks and neighfor reading and bors during a math during anlengthy public The nual Standards hearing over the weekend. students at of Learning exams. But school Following the board members planning com- Jefferson-Houston in attendance mission’s lead, work very hard, argued that upcity council created an ad- and we deserve the graded classrooms and a visory group same high-quality new building to shepherd would contribbuildings as the project to ute to students’ completion. other Alexandria successes. “This is “I am asking the one school students.” for your supthat has re-Madison Pippa port,” said Vice ceived the Chairwoman least amount Student Helen Morris. of capital at“This is a proud tention, and legacy of the it’s high time that a facility that was construct- school board and city council’s ed under a 1970s construct is work together.” brought up to the 21st century,” The legislation clearly dessaid Vice Mayor Kerry Donley. ignates the areas of the site slat The plan calls for a ed for use as public open space 130,000-square-foot facility, — namely the relocated Buchacomplete with state-of-the-art non Park — and that to be used classrooms and athletic fields. for the school. School board members and Alexandria City Public city councilors jointly drafted Schools approached the couna $35.9 million budget for the cil with plans for a new facility after discovering the school will project. “The students at Jefferson- cost $12.7 million to maintain Houston work very hard, and over the next 20 years. we deserve the same high-quali- “The students and their ty buildings as other Alexandria teachers deserve better,” said students,” said Madison Pippa, resident and former school board candidate Joyce Rawla sixth-grader at the school. Once the building is open ings. “They have been the only — scheduled for the start of the [students] who have lived with 2014-15 school year — the fa- the open space classrooms of cility will house more than 700 the ’70s, and it’s time to move children, more than double the forward.” ond Proposal met with unanimous support Richm City council OKs new school project december 20, 2012 | 5 Connect with us: 43 locations in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. Learn more at patientfirst.com *Cost for self-pay Fast Track Anytime flu shot is $27. **Available while supplies last. Flu shot is for patients who are not allergic to eggs, do not wish to see a physician and are at least 4 years old. prale110112flu More opinion. More entertainment. www.alextimes.com Visit us online. More sports. More news. More Alexandria. 6 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Memorial poised for approval Senate bill would allow construction of a memorial in D.C. By Derrick Perkins Maurice Barboza’s dogged fight to pay tribute to black patriots of the Revolutionary War hinges on a massive defense bill being negotiated in Congress. After years of gathering support for the memorial project, Barboza — an Alexandria resident — got a boost earlier this month when Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) attached an amendment to the multibilliondollar defense authorization bill. If approved by both houses, Barboza can begin fundraising and working with the National Parks Service to select a site for the memorial near the National Mall. Still, because the House bill does not contain language for the monument, Barboza’s dream of honoring his ancestors depends on whether lawmakers in both chambers include the project as they reconcile their competing versions. And that’s nothing new for Barboza. Since 2005 — when a bill authorizing the memorial was first submitted — Barboza has seen multiple efforts die in congressional wrangling. “The legislative process is full of ups and downs, and sometimes things move so slowly you can become very frustrated by them,” he said. “And sometimes people change their mind or change their position, and you have to anticipate that and when it happens deal with it.” Barboza’s decades-long quest to honor black patriots also has seen its share of ups and downs. In the 1970s he traced his roots back to two Maine men who served in the Revolutionary War. And later, he joined the Sons of the American Revolution and urged his relatives to do the same. But when his aunt, Lena Ferguson, tried to join the Daughters of the American Revolution, she found the group less welcoming of a black woman. Though the DAR eventually relented — after the Washington, D.C., City Council threatened to revoke the group’s nonprofit status — Ferguson began compiling the names of black Revolutionary War veterans. Barboza joined the effort, and when they hit 5,000 individuals, they decided to push File Photo for a monument on the National Maurice Barboza has struggled off and on for decades to honor Mall. But the effort fizzled, and the memory of black Revolutionary War veterans with a monument SEE patriots | 17 in Washington. He may soon have congressional approval to move ahead with the project. Holistic Medical Doctors Treating the Cause. Not Just the Symptoms. We are experts at a whole body / mind approach to optimal wellness and healing including the scientific use of acupuncture, nutrition, vitamins, supplements and herbs. Free Community Health Lecture! 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Presenter: Nutritionist Cheryl Mirabella, MA, CHHC Location: 1225 Martha Custis Dr., Suite C-1, Alexandria, VA 22302 RSVP Jeanne Shiffman, MD, DABFM, NCMP Special Interests: Menopause, Male Hormonal Balancing, Bio-Identical Hormones, Thyroid Issues, Fatigue, Medical Acupuncture and Complementary Cancer Care Rosemarie Rose, MD, DABFM Special Interests: Neurotransmitter Diseases including ADHD, Fibromyalgia, Migraines and Parkinson’s Disease 1225 Martha Custis Drive, Suite C-1, Alexandria, Virginia 22302 Call: 703.671.2700 Email: [email protected] Now Accepting New Patients 703.671.2700 Sign up for Our Newsletter & Educational Seminar Invitations! www.CaringDoc.com 703.671.2700 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 7 Old Town’s sauciest mothers Whole Foods picks up local duo’s culinary creations By melissa Quinn Some like it mild, some like it hot, but Eli Rakis and Mary Ritley-White like it homemade. And as the owners and chefs of Sauce Queen Foods, that’s just how they make it. It’s been only nine months since the friends embarked on their culinary endeavor — selling their line of homemade sauces to friends, neighbors and now Whole Foods of Old Town — but Rakis and Ritley-White have become sauce sensations. Their success story began when Ritley-White began receiving a barrage of rave reviews from friends after bringing her homemade salsa to pool parties, birthday bashes and school functions. Her husband, T.J., joked she could make a profit from the dip, and that’s when the idea for Sauce Queen Foods was born, Ritley-White said. “It started in our wee little Old Town kitchens,” she said. Ritley-White approached Rakis with the idea to start selling her salsa, and with Rakis’ buffalo yogurt dip, the idea began to take shape. Now, the “mompreneurs” balance their full-time jobs and motherhood — Rakis has two children and Ritley-White has three — with being owners of a growing business. They started with a small clientele in Old Town, cooking the dips out of their home kitchens. But, as the business began to take off, the duo expanded to a licensed kitchen, making salsa, buffalo yogurt dip and a creamy horseradish sauce. “What started as a way for us to provide healthy, good food for our family and friends has grown into an opportunity to build our business ... and help other people simplify their lives with our sauces that help make any meal special,” Rakis said. As Sauce Queen’s salsas found their way onto more and more tables, fans began asking if they could get it in the grocery store. So the mompreneurs reached out to their contacts in the industry and scheduled a meeting. It took just five days for Old Town Whole Foods to give the pair the green light, and the sauces hit shelves Saturday. And with the onset of the holiday season, the pair find themselves in a whirlwind of Christmas recitals, holiday orders and, of course, cooking. “There hasn’t been a lot of time to celebrate; we’re kind of waiting to pop the cork on SEE sauce | 17 courtesy Photo “Mompreneurs” Eli Rakis and Mary Ritley-White began selling their line of homemade sauces at Whole Foods in Old Town on Saturday. Their brand — Sauce Queen Foods — includes salsa, buffalo yogurt dip and a creamy horseradish sauce. Phil Cefaratti, MBA y r r Me s a stm i r h C old town office 121 north pitt street alexandria, va 22314 www.philcef.com [email protected] 703-371-7601 Your real estate Doctor v Licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. v NVAR Top Producer in 2009, 2010, 2011 Quality. Not Quantity. Please LIKE my Facebook community page: Facebook.com/AlexVARealEstate Phil CefarattiAlexandriaTimes Ad 12.20.12.indd 1 12/17/12 7:36:39 AM 8 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Change coming to waterfront thoroughfare union IRGINIA NV ER HER M 50 E OF NORT H AG IT ANNI th 1962VERSA -201 RY 2 It’s Your Time. Spend It Wisely. Time, like money can be an important investment. Invest your time in a lifestyle that rewards you each day. At the Hermitage of Northern Virginia you’ll discover that time has a special quality all its own—time for spirited conversation, where good neighbors become great friends. 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At the time, residents against the blueprint argued traffic studies needed to take precedence over plans for redevelopment. At Saturday’s hearing, Ely argued future development might force officials to rethink their designs for Union Street. But Mayor Bill Euille noted the construction along the Potomac would not happen overnight. “One of the other perspectives we can’t lose sight of is M etro B ehavioral h ealth S erviceS , llc Providing integrative psychiatric services to adolescents (ages 12 & up), adults, and elderly patients. High quality health care for common and complicated psychiatric illnesses, alcohol, opiate or narcotics, tobacco, and cyber and any addictions. We also treat most common medical problems. Accepting Virginia Medicaid, Medicare, Tricare, self-pay based on sliding scale mode. We accept most commercial insurances. We accept new patients and the average wait period is one week. Gebrehana W Zebro, MD, MBA, FAPA, FACP Board certified psychiatrist, Board Certified Internist 6177 Grovedale Court Suite 100, Alexandria, VA (703)924-2370 (703)924-2374 Phone E M A I L T O D A [email protected] Y Fax [email protected] [email protected] ... the waterfront plan redevelopment is not going to happen today, it’s not going to happen tomorrow, it’s going to happen in 10 to 15 years,” he said. “But we can’t ignore the problems at this intersection for 10 to 15 years.” Other residents, including local cyclists, welcomed the changes. Jonathan Krall, chairman of the Alexandria Bike and Pedestrian Committee, spoke in favor of the recommendations. Rethinking Union Street would cut down on vehicle traffic in the busy corridor, he said. “I’m very happy this is happening,” Krall said, asking for more bicycle parking at the foot of King Street. Though city council passed the proposed recommendations unanimously, the issue of flood mitigation and development made their way into the conversation. Several city councilors worried changes to Union Street would impede flood-mitigation efforts. But Rich Baier, the city’s director of transportation and environmental services, was quick to note changes to the street would not substantially affect plans to end nuisance flooding, as they do not include changes to the grade and elevation of King Street. While they embraced the short-term improvements, city councilors expressed skepticism about the shared-street concept. “I’m going to support this, and it’s not without some misgivings about the shared streets,” Pepper said. “We can explore that concept, but I really have a lot of concern about that. I just can’t see how that [allows] a pedestrian to feel very safe when there’s a car that weighs 2,000 pounds more than the pedestrian.” City staff will continue to flesh out the proposal in the next 10 to 15 years. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 9 Pedestrian struck and killed in West End A city man succumbed to his wounds after a car struck him while he crossed West Braddock Road early Friday morning, Alexandria police say. Authorities identified the victim as Robert C. Portelle, 55, on Monday following an autopsy. Police initially said Portelle was hit by a 2002 Honda Accord about 7 a.m. but indicated a second vehicle might have been involved after investigating the fatal accident during the weekend. Portelle — not in a crosswalk at the time of the incident — was declared dead at the scene, between the intersections of West Braddock and North Hampton Drive and North Beauregard Street. The driver of the Accord also suffered injuries in the accident and was hospitalized. He is cooperating with police, said Jody Donaldson, department spokesman. Authorities urge anyone with information about the accident to contact the department at 703-746-4444. - Derrick Perkins www.alextimes.com tragedy an additional lockdown drill as a result of this. They also FROM | 1 know their parents are upset, that they’ve been watching the in and voice their concerns in news.” regard to their children and In his note to the commusafety and how their mental nity, Sherman shared a 2006 health needs were being met,” document crafted by the Nasaid school psychologist Erica tional Society of School PsyYoung. “We’ve also been able chologists to help teachers and to — based on referrals — talk parents discuss horrific acts with students [who have] diffiof violence with children. The culty coping with the tragedy.” tip sheet urges adults to reas For students, reaction to the sure their children about their national tragedy differs from safety; listen to their questions; grade to grade, said Regina keep answers age-appropriate; Moore, a Ramsay staff memreview safety procedures; and ber, and from family to family. maintain normal routines. While some students arrived Ramsay’s staff has, by and at school having discussed the large, embraced that approach. massacre, other parents have Students already held daily asked for their children to be small-group meetings with spared information about the teachers to discuss anything and shooting. everything. It’s a regular routine But many understood somethat also gave students a chance thing terrible happened — even to share their thoughts and feelwithout knowing the details, ings with an adult, said Princisaid Young. pal Rosario Casiano. “Some students complained “For the students, it was norabout feeling ill, having dreams, mal we would spend 30 minutes even if they don’t know the talking,” she said. “We told the specifics of the incident,” she teachers to listen to the stusaid. “They have a heightened dents, to see if they have quesawareness [now]. They’ve had tions, comments and concerns.” ACPS wasn’t alone in grappling with the enormity of the tragedy. City police stepped up patrols near schools, including private institutions, like Alexandria Country Day School. “Some of our students did ask about [the increased police presence], but our teachers simply let them know that they are just taking extra care and are being more present throughout the community,” wrote Scott Baytosh, head of school at ACDS. “For my part, I’m happy to have them and hope that, over time, we can normalize the presence of the police.” Baytosh reassured parents that the private school’s security system had seen an overhaul based on a 2008 assessment from a private company. Teachers, he wrote, have reviewed emergency procedures in the wake of the shooting. And at Saturday’s city council meeting, Mayor Bill Euille held a moment of silence for the victims and the bereaved. “It’s something that we’ll never forget ... and we hope it’s something that will never ever be repeated,” he said. Did you know metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer tumors can help fuel themselves by producing androgen? Research shows that metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) tumors are capable of producing their own androgen, which can help fuel their survival.. This information could help in managing your mCRPC. The more you know about the disease, the better equipped you are to discuss it with your doctor. Talk to your doctor about how tumors in mCRPC can help fuel themselves. Learn more at: tumorfuel.com/learn © Janssen Biotech, Inc. 2012 11/12 K08Z121137 10 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Pampered puppies Mobile grooming service offers VIP treatment for pets By Melissa Quinn It won’t be long before city residents boast the most pampered pooches in Northern Virginia thanks to Barkley Square Pets’ Spaaah mobile grooming van. An Alexandria-based company specializing in dog walking and pet-sitting, Barkley Square rolled out the mobile service Tuesday. The company offers VIP amenities to its furry clients, providing grooming and spa treatments without them ever having to leave home. Barkley Square rolls out a red carpet — literally — upon the Spaaah’s arrival at clients’ homes, and each cuddly creature gets a wash, trim, fluff and dry from the comfort of the company’s 12-foot-by-9–foot van, said Kristina Robertson, CEO and pack leader of Barkley Square. “I’ve been looking for a spot to open the grooming and retail [service] and was up against a lot of brick walls and kept looking and looking,” Robertson said. “There are other mobile groomers around, and I thought ‘Well, why not go mobile.’” The Spaaah caters not only to canines, but also to pets of all walks. And for two-legged What’s the We wanted to offer VIP service to clients ... and what’s more VIP than coming to their house?” -Kristina Robertson CEO and pack leader of Barkley Square visitors, the van includes a bathroom, flat-screen television, refrigerator and microwave. Spaaah mobile offers plenty of space inside the SEE pets | 28 BIG Courtesy Photo Spaaah Mobile grooming offers VIP service to Alexandria’s pooches and pets — all from the comfort of home. Barkley Square’s van — which had its grand opening Tuesday — specializes in grooming. IDEA? Because we want to hear it. If you have a great idea for helping Metro maintain momentum and prepare to serve a growing population over the next 30 years, join the conversation. Share your thoughts, opinions and ideas by visiting www.wmata.com/momentum or writing it below and mailing it in. The next great Metro improvement could be yours! 50% K My BIG IDEA is: 100 45 0 0 0 50 100 0 Your name and contact information are optional. Please mail to: WMATA — ATTN: Office of Marketing 6G/Momentum — 600 5th Street, NW — Washington, DC 20077-0493 0 100 80 5 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 11 Navigating in the wake of tragedy Many of our readers have sent questions about coping with their and their children’s reactions to the horrific shootings last week in Newtown, Conn. As psychologists, we have worked with children, adolescents and families in the wake of many personal and public tragedies. As parents of young children, we experienced the 9/11 and D.C. sniper attacks up close. We know professionally and personally how difficult it can be to handle your responses to events of this magnitude while attending to your children’s needs. It is critical that you separate the two. You probably have seen a lot of good, general parenting advice this week that includes being open to and guided by your children’s questions (if and when they arise), keeping to normal school and family routines when possible, and limiting access to media coverage — all within developmentally appropriate contexts. As parents, you are in tune with what your children are capable of understanding factually at any point in time and also with how they handle emotions (theirs and those of others around them). You know that differences in age, temperament and experience make each child unique. Some of your children may not be asking any questions about Hobie and Monk are two Alexandria women with husbands, children, dogs, jobs, mortgages, unmet New Year’s resolutions, obsessions with impractical shoes, English novels … and Ph.D.s in clinical psychology. Their advice, while fabulous, should not be construed as therapeutic within a doctorpatient context or substituted for the advice of readers’ personal advisors. Sandy Hook at all, and that is perfectly fine if they are moving through their daily lives in typical fashion. Do not feel compelled to keep talking about the event. Some children may have very direct, difficult and even gruesome questions, and you will need to be calm and deliberate in deciding what information is appropriate to share and how best to do so. Do not feel pressured to answer every question — much less in detail — and always reserve the right to say, SEE mental health | 15 Celebrate a very special event with a very special card. Remember your Inauguration experience with this Commemorative SmarTrip® card. It’s pre-loaded with a One Day Pass, so you can use it for unlimited travel on Inauguration Day. Then load it with value for your future travel. The cost is $15, or get a commemorative set—the 2009 and 2013 cards—for $30. Available at any Metro Sales Office or online at wmata.com/inauguration. 12 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES SCENE AROUND TOWN CHRISTMAS ATTIC’S HOLIDAY ADVENT ART EVENT Now to December 25 The Christmas Attic has partnered with area schools, churches and community groups to help produce illuminated canvases of art in each of the store’s windows or on the brick of the building. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal advent art featuring a variety of local holiday creations. Time: Sundown Location: Christmas Attic, 125 S. Union St. Information: 703-548-2829 or www.christmasattic.com AFRICAN ENCOUNTERS: COAST TO COAST EXHIBITION Now to December 23 Calendar of Events To have your event considered for our calendar listings, please email [email protected]. You can also post your event directly to our online calendar by visiting www.alextimes.com. SANTA CLAUS IN OLD TOWN Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in Old Town to take pictures with children and find out who was naughty or nice. Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays Location: Bike and Roll Alexandria, 1 Wales Alley Information: 703-501-6289 or oldtownboutiquedistrict.com Now to December 31 MARSHALL HOUSE INCIDENT EXHIBITION The deaths of Union Col. Elmer Ellsworth and secessionist James Jackson at the Marshall House Hotel along King Street during the Federal occupation of Alexandria on May 24, 1861, stirred patriotic fervor in the north and south. This exhibit at Fort Ward features objects from the museum collection — like a star from the flag which had flown over Marshall House and loan items from the Mary Custis Lee chapter of the Daughters of the Confederacy — to tell this notable story about the event that launched the Civil War in Alexandria. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday Location: Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. Braddock Road Information: 703-746-4848 or www. fortward.org PAWS TO READ — KIDS READ TO DOGS December 20 Kids, in first through sixth grades, can sign up for a 15-minute slot to read to a pal. The event is free. Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1702 OCCUPIED CITY: LIFE IN CIVIL WAR ALEXANDRIA EXHIBITION This exhibition examines life in an American town seized and held by its federal government, following Virginia’s decision to secede from the Union in May 1861. Explore the experiences of Alexandrians and others who lived here during this tumultuous time through their words, as well as period photographs and collections items. Suggested admission is $2. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday Location: The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Information: 703-746-4994 or www. alexandriahistory.org The Alexandria Black History Museum presents this exhibition, in which artist Kathleen Stafford explores the landscape, architecture and people of Africa. She provides a kaleidoscope of variety and color for the eye with watercolors and collagraph print. The exhibition is free. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday Location: Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Information: www.alexblackhistory.org December 20 CHRISTMAS DISPLAY OF LIONEL TRAINS Bring the kids to Hollin Hall Senior Center and see the Lionel train setup by Joe Pallone. Time: 10 a.m. OPENING RECEPTION: SHADES OF WHITE January 4 Chill out after the holiday madness with this art exhibit. White isn’t “just white.” It has tones and hues ranging from blues to beiges to yellows and more. In addition, some white pigments chemically interact with others to create beautiful blues and grays. Shades of White runs through January 27. Time: 7 to 10 p.m. Location: Del Ray Artisans gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. Information: www.thedelrayartisans.org WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 13 December 23 Location: Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road Information: 703-765-4573 CIVIL WAR SUNDAY Explore the GRAPHIC NOVEL DISCUSSION GROUP The group will discuss “God and Science: Return of the Ti-Girls” and “The Voyeurs.” Time: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1702 December 21 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP Children learn valuable social skills and improve their developmental skills through play. Parents and caregivers will join their child in stimulating activities that reinforce physical, cognitive and social development. The playgroup is free. Time: 10:30 a.m. to noon Location: Cora Kelly Recreation Center, 25 W. Reed Ave. Information: Contact Deatrice Williams at 703-746-3430 or deatrice. [email protected] Civil War in Alexandria with Civil War Sundays, a showcase of an original May 26, 1861, edition New York Tribune detailing Col. Elmer Ellsworth’s death in Alexandria; a Peeps diorama illustrating Ellsworth’s death; a TimeTravelers Passport exhibit featuring the Civil War drummer boy; a diorama of a heating system constructed in Alexandria to warm Civil War hospital tents during the winter of 1861; a cocked-and-loaded Wickham musket discarded in a privy during the 1860s; and an exhibit on the Lee Street site during the Civil War. The event is free. Time: 1 to 5 p.m. Location: Alexandria Archaeology Museum, 105 N. Union St. Information: 703-746-4399 December 24 - 25 Location: Various Information: www.alexandriava. gov December 24 OTBD: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA The Old Town Boutique District will cap off the holiday season with Breakfast with Santa. This will be the last opportunity for children to share their Christmas wishes with Santa before he heads back to the North Pole. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12.50 for children. Time: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Location: Union Street Public House, 121 S. Union St. Information: otbd.webconnex. com/santa offices will be closed for the Christmas holiday. Time: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. A Christmas Carol 11/30 - 12/16 LTA rings in the holiday season with a return of the classic by Charles Dickens. Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly Victorian humbug, travels with ghostly guides through Christmas past, present, and future to find the true meaning of the holidays. Complete with special effects, Victorian carols, and Tiny Tim, A Christmas Carol is a must for the entire family. 600 Wolfe St, Alexandria • 703-683-0496 • www.thelittletheatre.com December 27 WORLD SHORT STORY DISCUSSION GROUP The CITY OFFICES CLOSED City The Little Theatre of Alexandria presents group will discuss stories from SEE calendar | 20 VOTED #1 RESTAURANT BY BUSINESS TRAVELERS TO WASHINGTON D.C. PIECES OF A DREAM The R&B and jazz group from Philadelphia will come to Alexandria to perform at the Birchmere. Pieces of a Dream’s latest album was “Soul Intent.” Tickets are $35. Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Information: 703-549-7500 or www.birchmere.com Open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve! CHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT PACK Come enjoy a thrilling night of great music and song. Frank, Dean and Sammy — the original Rat Pack — will perform with a wonderful mix of song, comedy, sketches and brilliant musical arrangement, including holiday favorites. Admission is $25. Time: 8 p.m. Location: The Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St. Information: 703-548-8899 or thecarlyleclub.com Enjoy our Chef ’s Holiday Features, impeccable service and festive ambiance all throughout December. Now Thru DEC 27 photo by Johnny Shryock 4 TICKETS ONLY $48! December 22 11am school vacation matinees! OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET The market includes lo- cal dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables. There is free parking in the garage during market hours. Time: 5:30 a.m. Location: Market Square, 301 King St. Information: 703-746-3200 1800 S. Bell St. - Crystal City synetictheater.org MEET SANTA AT OCCASIONALLY CAKE Santa Claus will make a special visit to Occasionally Cake, where visitors can make an ornament and enjoy a buffet of: hot cocoa, truffles, minicupcakes and cookies. The event costs $50 per child. Time: 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Location: Occasionally Cake, 207 King St. Information: 703-647-9638 or www.occasionallycake.com 11920 Democracy Drive Reston, VA 20190 901 F St. NW Washington, DC 20004 703.481.6600 202.639.9330 1652 K St. NW Washington, DC 20006 2010 Crystal Dr. Arlington, VA 22202 202.861.2233 703.413.6400 8484 Westpark Drive McLean, VA 22102 145 National Plaza Oxon Hill, MD 20745 703.848.8000 301.567.6224 600 13th St. NW Washington, DC 20005 202.347.1500 11901 Democracy Dr. Reston, VA 20190 703.787.7766 photo by C. Stanley Photography Call For Reservations 14 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Sports Lady Titans embrace underdog status T.C. looks to improve on 2-2 record By Melissa Quinn For the T.C. Williams girls varsity basketball team, being the underdog has become the norm. Season after season, the team plays well enough to reach the Patriot District tournament. And year after year, they fall short of walking away with the title, the glory, the trophy and the redemption. But for head coach Kesha Walton, being the underdog has its perks. It’s a source of constant motivation, whether in a pregame speech or practice pep talk. And with the shadow of championships lost looming over the Lady Titans, this year is no different. “We’re right there and we’re so close, but it seems so far,” Walton said. “But it’s not.” Though the Lady Titans have consistently made appearances at the regional and state tournaments, it’s a feat their critics hardly seem to notice. “We have not been recognized at all for some of the success we’ve had,” Walton said. “But for us ... we use it to motivate and get it going.” Despite beginning the season with a lone returning starter — the team lost six sePhoto/Melissa Quinn niors last year — the squad is Despite their youth, the girls varsity basketball team at T.C.Williams resilient. With just two seniors hopes to win a distrct championship this season. If successful, the team, and two juniors, Walton relies 2-2, would bring home the Lady Titans’ first Patriot District title in school heavily on her freshman and history. sophomores. “We have a lot of inexperience in a way,” Walton said. “But I’m trying to get them to build their own legacy.” Though Walton worries about the team’s lack of exBishop Ireton Episcopal perience, she’s confident the Overall Record: 6-1 Overall Record: 3-4 girls’ athleticism makes them Conference Record: 0-1 District Record: 0-0 a worthy opponent against the Last Week teams on their schedule, primarLast Week Won 62-53 ily Lake Braddock and West Won 72-49 at John Paul the Great Springfield, who walked away v. The Heights with the district title last season. Won 56-36 Upcoming They are the Titans’ toughest v. Potomac School At St. John’s, adversaries. December 21 “We’ve lost seven times to Upcoming: At Carroll, December 23 West Springfield [in the district At John Paul the Great, At Pope John Paul tournament],” said senior guard December 20 (Tenn.), December 27 Baylee Simpson. “We get so close, and it just hurts us. We worked so hard to get there.” T.C. Williams Walton and the team recogSt. Stephen’s Overall Record: 2-3 nize they’re going to have to & St. Agnes District Record: 0-2 play tough defense to remain competitive this season — and Last Week: Overall Record: 5-1 in the Patriot District. Won 56-48 v. Wakefield District Record: 0-0 “Work hard, no bs,” said Lost 59-50 Last Week: sophomore guard Rejoice Spivat W.T. Woodson No Games ey. “Go hard or go home.” Still, it’s an uphill battle — Upcoming: Upcoming the team is 2-2 beating West v. Saint Anselm’s, v. Lee, December 21 Potomac and Wakefield and January 2 v. Milford Mill, Decemfalling to Edison and W.T. ber 27 Woodson. They face Lee on the Round ball Roundup Shop, Dine & Celebrate On Alexandria’s Historic Main Streets Enjoy our independently owned shops and national retailers. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. And stroll our decorated and illuminated main streets. To find unique holiday shopping and memorable events, or to make restaurant reservations, go to VisitAlexandriaVA.com. Make Plans for First Night Alexandria! December 31 This annual New Year's Eve bash takes over Old Town with 100 performances at 20 indoor venues, with live music, dancing, and children's face painting and games. The afternoon’s Fun Hunt is joined by all-new activities for families and dogs! Plus, a spectacular fireworks display on the river at midnight. Afternoon activities, 2 to 5 p.m. Performances, 7 to 11:45 p.m. Tickets $15 in advance; $20 after Dec. 17. Details on this and dozens of events at VisitAlexandriaVA.com. 703.746.3301 Visit us online for a complete calendar of events and sign up for our free Access Alexandria e-newsletter. Online Restaurant Reservations Powered By © 2012, Alexandria Convention & Visitors Association. All rights reserved. SEE titans | 15 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM mental health FROM | 11 “I don’t know.” Children who tend to be more anxious or fearful anyway may experience more frequent or intense anxiety now, which can be typical during times of stress. Do not immediately assume this is a qualitatively different situation — help your children using the strategies that have helped them regulate their feelings and behavior in the past. Adults can take a lot of this same advice to heart. Many of us are dealing with our reactions to the shooting or perhaps are wondering why we haven’t december 20, 2012 | 15 been as intensely affected as others around us. Monitor your well-being, stay in touch with your regular support systems of friends, colleagues and/or family, and consider the possible effects of your media consumption. And if there are children in your home, consciously model how to safely handle whatever you are feeling. It is important that you do not assume or convey that your children feel similarly — leave room for everyone to cope in their way and keep an eye out for any big disruptions. In the end, most children and adults are remarkably resilient, but as always, please seek professional help for yourself and/or your children if there is a severe change in normal functioning that does not resolve relatively quickly. In moving forward, the shock of a senseless and horrible tragedy can inspire us to re-evaluate what is important in our lives, what we honor and hold dear, and how we want to use our time and talents. We encourage you to share these reflective and hopeful conversations with your children of all ages and to be actively engaged in your communities on issues of value to you and your families. Got a question for Hobie and Monk? Email them at [email protected] titans FROM | 14 road Friday. “We’re rekindling the fire and getting it going again,” Walton said. And with not much depth on the bench, the Lady Titans are going to have to rely on each other — leaning on a bond Walton works to strengthen every game day. Before the girls take the court, they eat together, sit together and dress together in an effort to get their minds ready. This season, Walton started a tradition in which each player receives a small token from a fellow teammate — anony- mously — as part of a secret pal exchange, Simpson said. It’s a small gift usually accompanied with words of encouragement and a snack. The gift-giving is designed to reinforce the team’s camaraderie — and hopefully it will translate into cohesion on the court. And they’ll fight all the way to the tournament in February. “Girls basketball at T.C. has never won [a district title],” Walton said. “No one remembers the second-place team. We’re playing for something better, and we’re preparing for the tournament in February and that’s it.” 16 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Holiday Gift Guide stonewall kitchen Perfect presents that only cost $20 or less Time for shopping is running out. Don’t worry, though, because Alexandria boasts some super shops to find affordable — and lovely — gifts. Here are some suggestions for presents that cost less than $20. The Silver Parrot at 113 King St. sells fun, and usually sparkly, costume jewelry. There are plenty of other items on offer as well at www.silverparrot.com, but the costume jewelry is sold exclusively at the shop. Ten Thousand Villages touts many items for less than $20 too, including earrings, decorative boxes, necklaces, indoor Frisbees, ornaments, journals, wallets and coin purses — just to name a few. These gifts come in lots of colors and styles, so give the staff a headsup and an employee will assist in finding the perfect selection. Stroll into the store at 915 King St. or call 703-684-1435. Old Town Ace Hardware at 809 S. Washington St. advertises attractive, practical gifts that are sure to please any age: from flashlights to glasses, coasters, bird feeders, outdoor thermometers, history books about surrounding local towns and hand tools. Come browse the lessthan-$20 items or dial 703-8790475 for more information. For something fun, consider a trip to Society Fair at 277 S. Washington St. The store sells a colorful bag of gumballs for only $3, and there are candies and cookies for cheap as well. Also ringing up for less than $20 are cake pops kits, Irish scone kits, doggie T-shirts and baking mixes. Check out www.societyfair.net or call 703-683-3247. Know any knitters or someone Hope SPARKLE WE WORK AS HARD AS YOU DO. hoping to learn the ropes (learn the yarns)? Then fibre space fits the bill with its knowledgeable staff, which will happily help guests find yarn and knitting needles. The 102 N. Fayette St. store sells the best knitting gifts. Just call 703-664-0344 or visit www.fibrespace.com. For something a bit different, Haute Dogs and Fries offers a bonus $10 gift card with any purchase of a gift card worth more than $40. So split the card for a couple or parents — which brings the total to $20 each — and share the extra $10 card with them or someone else. Haute Dogs and Fries sits at 610 Montgomery St. for more information, call 703-548-3891 or check out www.hautedogsandfries.com. Keep in mind that it’s the thought that matters, not the price. Happy holidays and happy shopping! & THE GIVE GI c FT OF lean! WANT A HOME CLEANING COMPANY THAT WORKS AS HARD AS YOU DO? SPARKLE IS NORTHERN VIRGINIA’S PREMIER HOME CLEANING COMPANY. SPARKLE Cleaning packages include: Please visit us at Signature Clean, Scrub, Clutter Clean, www.sparklemagicservices.com and Move-In/Move-Out Clean. 703-647-6560 Contact us today for a free estimate! Mention this ad for 15% off your initial clean! SPARKLE is fully licensed, insured and bonded. joy included with every gift Always Unique, Always Handcrafted Always Fair Trade Celebration cast bronze statuette. $99 Burkina Faso 915 King Street NATIONAL HARBOR COMPANY STORE 170 American Way | National Harbor, MD 20745 301.749.6902 stonewallkitchen.com Like us on Facebook Italian Fashion at Great Prices Unique selection of shoes, handbags and clothing. Take 25% off with this ad. Stylish You 110 S. West St. Alexandria, VA 22314 Facebook.com/fashionfinch Call 703-739-0001 to feature your store in the Holiday Gift Guide. 703-684-1435c ExpEriEncE thE art of JEwElry Open Every Day & Evenings 113 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703.549.8530 • www.silverparrot.com Next Week’s Holiday Gift Ideas: Post-Holiday Specials WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 17 ‘Mompreneurs’ cook up success sauce FROM | 7 the champagne,” Ritley-White said. Rakis and Ritley-White routinely end up working until well after midnight and lean on their husbands — the “Sauce Kings” — for support and help. “We’ve been doing this for like 15 minutes, but I think we have our moments and sometimes it is super hard,” RitleyWhite said. “But you have to support each other, and we have such a supportive community.” The duo is banking on the support of their families and neighbors to expand their sauce line. They also hope to expand to other Whole Foods in the region and maybe even open a shop. “People have been so amazing, and it’s like they’re itching to support us,” Ritley-White said. “Everybody is so supportive of a small startup, and we try to work it out and be a good team.” Even as the company grows and more sauces are pushed onto the shelves, Rakis and Ritley-White continue to sample each batch to ensure it’s just as delicious as the last. And as the duo dip their fingers into the business world, they can’t help but think, “Dang, that’s good.” Revolutionary project patriots FROM | 6 Barboza withdrew from the project in the mid-’90s as support for the memorial dissipated. When Ferguson died in 2004, Barboza decided to champion the cause once again. While bills authorizing the memorial struggled in Congress, he connected with local lawmakers across the country, bringing often-forgotten black patriots back into the spotlight. Towns and cities across the East Coast, as well as in Louisiana and Ohio, have passed resolutions honoring their black Revolutionary War veterans. In summer 2011, the Alexandria City Council backed his project and honored the memory of four black residents who hefted a musket or crewed a ship for the fledgling nation. He hopes the outpouring of local support will impress congressional negotiators. “The [representatives] from the East Coast have patriots from their districts,” Barboza said. “We’re reminding them that by voting for this bill — you’re voting for your local history.” If the bill survives the political sausage-making, Barboza will have seven years to raise money for the project and select one of six potential sites for the future monument. The bill before lawmakers blocks Barboza from using federal dollars for the memorial. He has a few fundraising ideas but won’t reveal them until after President Barack Obama signs the bill — hopefully with his amendment — into law. “It’s a lot to achieve,” Barboza said. “But the history is worth it, so we have to give it a try.” Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus One Wales Alley (Bike and Roll) Saturday & Sundays, Nov 24 - Dec 23 Breakfast with Santa Union Street Public House Monday, Dec 24 Pre-purchase of tickets required. Visit OldTownBoutiqueDistrict.com for more information. This program has been made possible by the support of the Alexandria Marketing Fund. WHO CARES? WE DO. Email comments, rants & raves to [email protected]. 18 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Let’s Eat A special advertising feature of the Alexandria Times Celebrate New Year’s in Alexandria As the year dwindles down, the countdown begins for 2013. In Alexandria, restaurants are offering exciting events and specials to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Check out some of the wonderful options: Joe Thiesmann’s Restaurant, at 1800A Diagonal Road, is a popular place for a festive time and fantastic food on New Year’s Eve. The restaurant will offer an elegant four-course dinner, as well as a DJ, dancing, party favors and champagne toast. The event costs $75 and starts at 9 p.m., with early seating until 7 p.m. For additional details, call 703-739-0777 or visit www.theismanns.com. On the north part of town, Indigo Landing sits at 1 Marina Drive. The restaurant — with views of the Potomac — will enhance any romantic New Year’s celebration. The eatery touts two seatings for a four-course meal. The first is from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for $100 per couple. The second seating is from 7:30 to 9 p.m., costs $130 per couple and includes a DJ, dancing, champagne toast, coffee and pastries, and party favors. Call 703548-0001 for more information. Le Refuge, at 127 N. Washington St., also will provide a romantic setting for welcoming in the new year. The familyrun French restaurant has superb cuisine and will offer three seating times for a three-course menu December 31: 5:30, 7:30 and 9:45 p.m., with a champagne celebration for the latest. To make a reservation, call 703-548-4661. Another fine French establishment is Yves Bistro in the Hoffman Town Center. Open every day of the year, the restaurant — which boasts a genuine Parisian feel — will be open until 10:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve. Not only does Yves Bistro serve tasty cuisine and wine, but the eatery also has a fabulous breakfast menu (perfect for New Year’s Day). For more information, dial 703- f i lle d f lav o r - Holiday office Parties Foster’s is the place to give your special event that BIG bite of fun. Call to reserve the date and time and you can have all the flavor of a neighborhood cookout without all the bother. Make a ReseRvation foR youR office paRty today! 703.519.0055 • Independently Owned & Operated 2004 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA 22314 Bastille Cuisine & cocktails to satisfy all 1201 North Royal Street Alexandria, VA 703-519-3776 www.bastillerestaurant.com 329-1010 or go to www.yvesbistrova. com. For a more low-key night, check out Chadwicks at 203 The Strand between Duke and Prince streets. This muchloved restaurant and bar will have a DJ from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. to ring in the new year. Call 703-836-4442 for more information. Bittersweet Cafe and Bakery at 823 King St. can help with party platters and food for New Year’s parties. On New Year’s Eve, stop by the restaurant from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Call 703-549-2708 or visit www.bittersweetcatering. com to learn more about all of the establishment’s menu items and options. Bugsy’s Pizza Restaurant and Sports Bar also can enhance home parties for the new year with pizza, potato skins and lots of other scrumptious selections. The 111 King St. eatery will happily deliver the order, so just call 703-683-0313 for more information. Open Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve Le Refuge Christmas EvE & NEw YEar’ s EvE spECial mENu & thrEE sEatiNgs . Call for rEsErvatioNs. 127 N. Washington St. 703.548.4661 www.lerefugealexandria.com For those who are hard to shop for, try something SWEET from Bittersweet. $2.00 OFF Any purchase of $8.00 or more $5.00 OFF Any purchase of $15.00 or more Kids eat FREE every Sunday & Monday www.bittersweetcatering.com Catering (703) 549-2708 Cafe (703) 549-1028 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 19 Congressman’s son pleads guilty to assaulting girlfriend Patrick Moran, son of U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-8), pleaded guilty last week to assaulting his girlfriend despite differing accounts of the incident. A Metro police officer and an Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration investigator saw Patrick Moran smash Kelly Hofmann’s head into a trashcan outside of a Columbia Heights nightclub at 1:23 a.m. December 1, according to a police report. Medical personnel believed she suffered a broken nose and fractured skull, according to the police account, and Patrick Moran was charged with assault and domestic violence. But Hofmann claimed her heel broke, causing her to fall and hit her head in a statement released through the congressman’s office. In an email to the Times, Patrick Moran stood by his girlfriend’s account and said he “takes strong issue with the off-duty, plain-clothed MPD officer’s description of what occurred.” But the Arlington man also apologized to the officer, to whom he was “intolerably disrespectful to,” and attributed much of the incident to alcohol consumption. The congressman’s office stood behind Patrick Moran’s and Hofmann’s account, calling it an accident and hoping the couple could put the “em- barrassing” incident behind them. “The situation was an accident,” Anne Hughes, Jim Moran’s spokeswoman, told the Washington City Paper’s Will Sommer in an email. “Patrick didn’t hit or shove her.” Hughes also questioned the police report’s accuracy, saying Patrick Moran and Hofmann were the sole witnesses to the incident. Following Patrick Moran’s court appearance, he also extended an apology to his family, friends and to Hofmann. “They deserve better from me,” he wrote. - Melissa Quinn Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Allergy Sensitive Specialities 3690 H & I King Street, Alexandria, Va 22302 | 703-578-4144 | www.alexandriapastry.com Early seating until 7pm Reservations accepted $75/person starting at 9pm Welcoming in the New Year! 4-Course Elegant Dinner DJ, Dancing & Party Favors Champagne Toast at Midnight 1800 Diagonal Rd. Alexandria, VA 703-739-0777 From the founder of www.theismanns.com Au Pied Cochon Au Pied dedeCochon From the founder of Happy Holidays! Au Pied de Cochon Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, 22314 235 Swamp Alexandria, VA VA 22314 235 Swamp Fox Fox Road Road Alexandria, 235 Swamp Fox Road Alexandria, VA 22314 Across from from Eisenhower Eisenhower Metro Across Metro Station Station Across from Eisenhower Metro Station 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days a Week 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days aVAWeek Alexandria, 235Swamp SwampFox FoxRoad Road Alexandria, VA 22314 22314 235 Across MetroStation Station Acrossfrom fromEisenhower Eisenhower Metro 703-329-1010 DaysaaWeek Week 703-329-1010 •• Open Open 77 Days New Years Eve & New Years PLANNING A FAMILY REUNION? Let our professional sales team help Washington, DC and the surrounding areas offer many exciting activities for any family and when better to plan a trip to the Nation’s Capital than for your next reunion? 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Sunday, Monday & Tuesday Special Buy 1 Entrée Get One From founder of (Dining-in From the the founder of Only) 2 entrees and a bottle of wine for Maine Lobster Alexandria, VA 22314 235 Swamp Fox Road 4:30 - Dinner 6:30pm Everyday 6:30 to closing (in-dining from only, not validPM on holidays) (After 6:30pm) Across Metro Across from from Eisenhower Eisenhower Metro Station Maine Lobster DinnerStation Maine Lobster Dinner Across from Eisenhower Metro Station Everyday from 6:30 PM to closing Maine Lobster Dinner 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days a Week From the6:30 founder of closing Everyday from PM to 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days aVAWeek Alexandria, 22314 235 SwampFox FoxRoad Road Alexandria, VA 22314 235 Swamp Au Pied de Cochon From the founder of Across Metro Station Acrossfrom fromEisenhower Eisenhower Metro Station Yves and Oyuna, your hosts, bring you From theyour founder of bring you Yves andPied Oyuna, hosts, Au de Cochon the ideal neighborhood bistro. 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days a Week the ideal neighborhood bistro. Alexandria, VA 22314 235 Swamp Fox Road • Open 7 Days a Week Alexandria, 22314 235 703-329-1010 Swamp Fox Road Pied de VA Cochon VA 22314 235 Swamp Fox Au Road Alexandria, Sunday, Monday & Tuesday Across Eisenhower Metro Station Across from from Eisenhower Metro Special Station Across from Eisenhower Metro Station (Dining-in Only) 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days a Week 2 entrees and a bottle of wine for 703-329-1010 • Open 7 Days aVAWeek Alexandria, 235 SwampFox FoxRoad Road Alexandria, VA 22314 22314 235 Swamp Across from Eisenhower Metro Station Across from Eisenhower Metro Station Maine Lobster Dinner 703-329-1010 •• Open Days Week Everyday from 6:30 toaaclosing 703-329-1010 Open 77PM Days Week (After 6:30pm) $14. $14. $14. $14. 95 95 50 $29. 95 $14. 95 95 95 50 95 Au Pied de Cochon $29. $14. MaineMonday Lobster Dinner Sunday, & Tuesday Special Mainefrom Lobster Everyday 6:30 Only) PMDinner to closing Maine Lobster Dinner (Dining-in Simone archand From theam founder of 2 entrees and bottle of to wine for Everyday from 6:30 PM closing singing Edith Piaf Maine Lobster Dinner songs every Friday From the founder Everyday from PMofto closing (After6:30 6:30pm) Yves and Oyuna, your hosts, bring you theyour founder of bring you Maine Lobster Dinner Yves andFrom Oyuna, hosts, theMaine ideal neighborhood bistro. Lobster Dinner Everyday from 6:30 PM tobistro. closing the ideal neighborhood Maine Lobster Dinner From the6:30 founder of closing Everyday from PM to Au Pied de Cochon Au Pied de Cochon 95 Au Pied de Cochon $14. From the founder of Yves and Oyuna, your hosts, bring you 20 | december 20, 2012 calendar ALEXANDRIA TIMES December 30 FROM | 13 “Other Voices, Other Vistas,” edited by Barbara Solomon. Time: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road Information: 703-746-1704 December 29 SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY AND THE ASBURY JUKES The Jersey Shore music group has been recording albums since the mid-’70s. Led by Southside Johnny, the band has featured some famous names throughout its existence, like Jon Bon Jovi. Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes’ latest album is “Men Without Women.” Tickets are $39.50. Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Information: 703-549-7500 or www. birchmere.com TANK The R&B singer, songwriter and producer will perform live at the Birchmere. Tank, who has been nominated for eight Grammy Awards, released the album, “This is How I Feel,” earlier this year. The record features hit singles like “Compliments” and “Next Breath.” Tickets are $45. Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Information: 703-549-7500 or www. birchmere.com December 31 NOON YEAR’S EVE PARTY Is midnight past bedtime? Ring in the new year at this library event. The party will feature stories, dancing and even a countdown! Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1702 first night alexandria December 31 This annual New Year’s Eve bash will take over Old Town with 100 live performances at 18 indoor venues. In addition, there will be the fourth annual Fun Hunt, and the beloved fireworks finale returns with a spectacular display over the Potomac River. Tickets are $20 for adults and free for children, 12 and younger. Time: 2 to 5 p.m. (day activities) and 7 p.m. Location: Various Information: 703-746-3301 or www.firstnightalexandria.org January 2 FRIENDS OF DUNCAN LIBRARY FILM NOIR SERIES The monthly film series continues with “The Asphalt Jungle.” Discussion follows at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, co-sponsor of the event. Time: 7 to 9 p.m. Location: James M. Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Information: 703-746-1705 January 3 CLASSIC FILM SERIES Come watch “A Star is Born.” Time: 5 to 7 p.m. Location: Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road Information: 703-746-1704 January 4 - 5 PAT MCGEE BAND The rock band from Richmond comes to Alexandria to perform live for two nights at the Birchmere. Tickets are $29.50. Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount HEARTFELT AND “ Cozy Countdown Date Night Bag HILARIOUS . one of the year’s best comedies. streisand and rogen are the perfect comedy duo!” FOX TV, Jake hamilton Ring out the old! Ring in the new! (with a romantic date night bag for two!) Blini with Caviar & Crème Fraîche Baguette Boeuf Bourguignon Luxe Brownies with Gold-Leaf Sparkling Wine & Red Wine $100, bags are limited Reserve yours now! (Please order by the morning of December 30) 277 South Washington Street | Alexandria, Virginia 22314 | 703.683.3247 | societyfair.net NOW PLAYING CHECK DIRECTORIES FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES NO PASSES ACCEPTED washington suburban press WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 21 Get Festive! New Year’s Eve Celebration! four - course meal two seatings reservations required Late seating includes: DJ Dancing Champagne toast Coffee/pastries at midnight Party favors seatings: 5-6:30 pm $100/couple or 7:30-9 pm $130/couple See the Chef’s Choice menu and details of our two seatings. 1 Marina Dr., Alexandria, VA 22314 indigolanding.com • 703.548.0001 Vernon Ave. Information: 703-549-7500 or www. birchmere.com January 5 MEDITATION Learn how to feel centered and peaceful in the new year. Come to this free workshop, which teaches guided meditation and breathing techniques. Time: Noon to 1 p.m. Location: Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road Information: 703-746-1704 CABIN FEVER AROMATHERAPY WORKSHOP Learn to create tea, make a sinus inhaler, stitch a lavender sachet and stir up a unique lotion in this four-project workshop. Time: 2 to 3 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1743 January 7 PARTNERS IN ART GROUP Looking for a chance to get together with creative people to discuss art and exchange ideas? Join a meeting of the Del Ray Artisans’ cooperatively led Partners in Art group. You may find the group engaged in a creativity exercise, enjoying a short demonstration or in a lively art-related discussion. Free and open to the public. Time: 2 to 4 p.m. Location: Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. Information: Contact Millie Mateu at globaleducationsolutions@gmail. com or Katherine Rand at katherine@ katherinerand.com January 10 MOVIE MATINEE Come watch “The Odd Life of Timothy Green.” Time: 4 to 6 p.m. Location: Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road Information: 703-746-1704 LIBRARY SPEED DATING Come share the love of books and find that literary better half at this event. There will be prizes as well as refreshments. Time: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1751 LATIN AMERICAN BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP The discussions are in English. For stories in Spanish and English, please contact the adult services/reference desk at 703-746-1702x3. Time: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-7461702x3 CIVIL WAR BALL DANCE CLASS In prepa- ration for the Civil War Ball on January 26, learn the waltz, polka and Virginia reel from an expert dance master. Reservations are recommended; tickets cost $12. Time: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Location: Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Information: 703-746-4242 January 14 LET’S TALK BOOKS The book discussion group will discuss “Brooklyn” by Colm Toibin. The discussion is free and open to everyone. Time: 7 to 8 p.m. Location: Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Information: Contact Heather Martyn at 703-746-1703x4 CLUTTER CONTROL Come to this class — led by the Virginia Cooperative Extension — to learn easy strategies to clear clutter from the home. Time: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Location: James M. Duncan Branch ‘DOWNTON ABBEY’ MARATHON December 26-28 Before PBS airs season three next month, come and catch up on the first two seasons of “Downton Abbey.” There also will be tea and biscuits. Time: 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday; 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday; and 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1702 Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Information: 703-746-1705 January 16 WHO WAS MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.? Discover the life of the great man who is celebrated on Martin Luther King Day. The program is for children, 12 to 6, without an adult. Time: 4 to 4:45 p.m. Location: Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Information: 703-746-1702 22 | december 20, 2012 Our View Lessons from Jefferson-Houston We were pleased to see the city council approve plans for a new Jefferson-Houston School on Saturday. Yes, not everyone agrees with the specifics of the project. But school and city officials’ efforts to engage the public throughout the planning stages were applauded by even the project’s most strident opponents. Given the city’s poor reputation for getting residents on board with major proposals, it’s important to examine what went right with Jefferson-Houston. To start, officials clearly defined the need. The decades-old school was built based on an educational model now out of fashion and would have cost Alexandria City Public Schools — not to mention taxpayers — dearly in maintenance costs in the coming years. With enrollment ballooning, a larger building with room for hundreds more students will help offset the districtwide classroom crunch. And officials resisted the urge to sweeten the deal by promising a new school would instantly solve JeffersonHouston’s well-publicized academic woes. Yes, stateof-the-art classrooms will help, but the building doesn’t take the Standards of Learning tests. Early talks about the future of the school revolved around stakeholders. What did parents, neighbors and educators want to see in a new Jefferson-Houston? What did they want to avoid? ACPS officials subsequently held a seemingly endless series of meetings with residents and employed instant polling data to ensure all voices were heard — not just the loudest. Participants could see exactly what their neighbors liked and disliked about the project, and officials could respond and adjust plans as needed. Committees were established to shepherd the project to completion, and ACPS created a website about the project’s details, ensuring all residents had a chance to see what was on the table. How successful was this effort? Neighbor Dino Drudi, who remains a critic of the project, endorsed ACPS’ outreach strategy in a letter to the editor early last month. “Although those of us who live near the site packed the two board of architectural review hearings where the project was considered, the public-involvement process worked well enough that most of us feel we have to accede to the design because we understand everyone else likes it,” he wrote. “Though I have consistently opposed what came out of the public-involvement process, I cannot strongly enough endorse [it] and believe city government needs to utilize it more widely on a range of controversial topics, perhaps even the waterfront plan.” Contrast that with the efforts to pass the Beauregard and waterfront redevelopment plans, which have left residents feeling alienated and city officials spending taxpayer dollars on legal fees. Mr. Drudi’s suggestion is the right one: City Hall must embrace this model going forward. ALEXANDRIA TIMES Opinion “Where the press is free and every man is able to read, all is safe.” - Thomas Jefferson Your Views Ranking students is a lazy way to measure academic success To the editor: I was disappointed by the Times’ editorial (“Competition avoidance: not the right lesson at T.C.,” December 13) concerning class rankings at T.C. Williams. Eliminating student-by-student class rankings at T.C. will not do college-record — or other — damage to the highestperforming students and will help all students in the average and above-average cohorts of every class. T.C. can, and likely will, always offer special graduation honors to top seniors without deviating from a no-ranking policy. At schools that engage in strict, ordinal rankings, it typically is superficially assumed that only a fixed number or percentage of students were optimally ready for demanding college programs. Colleges are free to use class ranks to automatically exclude otherwise-promising applicants from fair consideration. And it is perceived, at these high schools, that the faculty and administration should concentrate efforts on only a small slice of each junior and senior class. Ordinal class rankings are no longer used by many of the better-ranked colleges. Rigid, ordinal, student-by-student class rankings invite college admissions officers, union apprentice instructors, military recruiters and the general public to conclude that, somehow, a statistical majority of each graduating class is below some arbitrary par value and has somehow failed. An individual student’s grade point average, course selections, transcript, recommendations and, very importantly, SAT/SATII/ACT scores will help guide colleges to students — and students to colleges. A gradepoint-average delta of only a fraction of a percentage point should never make the difference if we really want all T.C. students to do well. Alexandria City Public Schools should not be in the business of documenting minutiae against the interests of all of its best and most hopeful kids. - Mark Williams Alexandria WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 23 Cyclists are out of control To the editor: Steve, thank you for bringing this up (“Cyclists fail to respect the rules of the road,” December 13). I completely agree with everything in your letter. Seeing bicyclists on the street gives me shivers. I was brutally insulted by a bicyclist about two years ago. I was in the car with my child and hurrying to a doctor’s appointment when a highly aggressive bicyclist was riding his bike in the middle of North Pitt Street. After lingering behind him for more than a block, I had no choice but to honk at him. At that, he got off his bicycle, brutally insulted me, and scared my daughter by yelling and calling me names. A bicyclist hit my colleague’s car door with his foot after her husband asked him not to ride so close to the street. When I talked to people — trying to complain about it — I was told that nothing can be done because the bicyclists have all the rights. My children and I like to ride our bicycles, but I use the bicycle path. Riding along the few blocks I need to take before I get to Seeing bicyclists on the street gives me shivers.” the path, I am very careful and respectful to the pedestrians and the drivers. - Elena Costanzo Alexandria Doing away with class rankings does a disservice to students To the editor: Great editorial (“Competition avoidance: not the right lesson at T.C.,” December 13) decrying the feel-good plan by the underachieving, well-intentioned school district to ensure no T.C. Williams student graduates last. All will be first, regardless of their actual scholastic achievements. If this policy is implemented, it will give students inverse expectations and certain disappointment: those with anemic academic achievement will be disturbed to learn that in real life they are not first. And those with high aca- demic achievements will be deprived of confidence. This plan is twice wrong and harmful to all whom the district is charged to prepare for life’s competitive arena. - Jim Roberts Alexandria Police, Times fail to keep public up to date To the editor: I was rather alarmed to see in this past week’s paper that we had had three sexual assaults in our area, with not a word about them in the Alexandria Times. The blurb at the bottom stating that the police are “not required to supply the public at large with detailed information” is correct but does not absolve them or you of the responsibility to inform the public of a danger. You can give a lot of critical information with- out it becoming “detailed,” and I believe you are obligated to do so. If these are happening outside my front door, I want to know about it. - Col. Pat Webb Alexandria Comprehending the unthinkable Like most people, I still can’t it, the federal government intercomprehend what happened in vened to protect the civil rights of Connecticut on Friday morning. the mentally ill. The movement to There are places the human mind stop putting people in mental injust can’t fully go, and visualizing stitutions picked up steam in the a room full of slaughtered 6-year- 1960s and 70s, and the mentally ill olds is one of them. were moved to community-based As a parent, my heart aches care, usually on an outpatient bafor those who lost their precious sis. The reasons are complex, but babies that day. Everyone who’s the bottom line isn’t: This model ever loved a child grieves for the simply isn’t working — at least little lives cut short. We wonder, not as it pertains to severely ill, as we hear about the heroic adults violent young men. who died trying to Reform on the gun stop the killer and side of the problem is those whose efforts easier but will be met saved other children, with fierce resistance would we have been from devotees of as brave? Second Amendment Our thoughts then rights. I think Sandy turn closer to home. Hook will ultimately What about my child? be seen as the final Are the schools that straw on this issue. my children attend Yes, hunters should safe? Or — in reality be able to use rifles or Denise Dunbar — is no school that’s shotguns to hunt, and not a prison safe from individuals should be the combination of an insane per- able to own handguns for protecson bent on malice and weapons tion. But no civilian needs a gun intended for mass killings? that fires five rounds per second Sadly, and terrifyingly, I think or to own a civilian version of it’s the latter. Of all of the horrific the military M-16. At this point rampages involving crazy people in time, arguments against restricand guns in recent years, this is tions on these weapons — on the the most shocking. It’s the one basis of not wanting to go down that we, collectively, may never an imaginary slippery slope — fully get over. Is it also the one just don’t cut it. These guns have that finally galvanizes a majority to go. of the American public to take ac- Friday was one of the saddest tion to prevent this from ever hap- days in American history. We are pening again? left with a melancholy that even The problem is multifaceted, the normal joy of Christmas and but I think there are two core so- Hanukkah can’t quite lift. Right lutions: First, it needs to be much now, all we can do is grieve with easier to involuntarily commit se- and pray for the families of those verely mentally ill people to insti- who died. But in the new year, it’s tutions, and second, weapons in- time to tackle the difficult issues tended for military use should not of reforming care for the severely be sold to the general public. mentally ill and finally ridding our The gun side of the equation country of the plague of assault gets most of the attention, but the weapons. mental health side is just as important. As often happens in American life, the pendulum has swung too far on this issue. Because there The writer is the editorial page was a time when the insane were editor and managing partner of horribly mistreated and too easy the Alexandria Times. to lock up people who didn’t need MyView 24 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Quick Takes Thumbs up to Alexandria resident Maurice Barboza for attempting to honor black soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War. Barboza’s determined effort has garnered the support of Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.). It would be especially meaningful for America’s first black president to sign the bill into law that authorizes a memorial for black patriots. — Denise Dunbar Thumbs down to a lack of pedestrian safety in Alexandria. As was evidenced by the death of city resident Robert C. Portelle on Friday morning, walkers risk their lives in our city. Sometimes it’s because the walker chooses to cross a busy road without going to a crosswalk, as in Portelle’s case. But pedestrians in other parts of the city are routinely at risk from drivers who fail to heed stop signs and from bicyclists who ride on sidewalks and blow through intersections without even slowing. Pedestrian safety is a real and growing problem. — Denise Dunbar Thumbs up to Christmas and Santa Claus and happy children’s faces on Christmas morning. I wish you all the best during this holiday season and am thankful for all the blessings I have enjoyed this year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! — Patrice Culligan Thumbs UP to John Marshall Bank for their generous donation to Rebuilding Together Alexandria. This money will help the local nonprofit in all of its efforts to lend assistance to Alexandria’s low-income residents. — Patrice Culligan OUT OF THE ATTIC When ‘Broadway Joe’ came to town F ollowing up the November 15 article about the amazing rock ‘n’ roll history of Alexandria’s former George Washington High School, “GW” has an intriguing sports heritage as well. The year 1965 was particularly interesting, with the graduation of Harley E. “Skeeter” Swift, a football and basketball legend at the school, who played five seasons for the New Orleans Buccaneers. But the school also hosted an American Football League game that year between the New York Jets and the Houston Oilers, introducing the city to a 22-yearold player, pictured here, who had recently signed the largest professional contract in football history. Joseph William Namath had been selected by the New York Jets in November 1964 as the first overall pick of the AFL and given a record salary of $427,000. In August 1965, the local Kena Temple sponsored the first preseason game of the AFL season as part of the city’s Alexandria Days celebration at the expanded high school stadium. Namath, who became the AFL rookie of the year and an all-star later that year, was a huge draw. He had led the University of Alabama Crimson Tide to a national championship A. Yes. B. No. Take the poll at alextimes.com [email protected] Derrick Perkins Executive Editor [email protected] EDITORIAL Melissa Quinn Reporter & Photographer [email protected] Denise Dunbar Editorial Page Editor [email protected] Evan Campbell Calendar Editor & Copy Editor [email protected] Photo/Library of Congress the year before. At Alabama, coach Paul “Bear” Bryant called Namath “the greatest athlete I ever coached.” The game was a major attraction, with players even walking in a parade down King Street while tossing miniature footballs to the crowd. Half-time entertainment was provided by Shriner members, including a color guard, musical band and, of course, the famous Kena Klowns. Though the Oilers prevailed over the Jets by a score of 21-16, Namath’s performance did not disappoint. He led the Jets to 13 points. Within four years, Namath would go on to be named most valuable player of Super Bowl III. Out of the Attic is provided by the Office of Historic Alexandria. Weekly Poll This Week Should Alexandria use the same process for all development projects that was used for the JeffersonHouston School? Patrice V. Culligan Publisher Last Week Should schools rank students based on their academic performance? 56% Yes. Competition never hurt anyone. 44% No. Students shouldn’t have to worry about their rank. 43 votes Ana Rampy Intern ADVERTISING Marty DeVine [email protected] Margaret Stevens [email protected] Pat Booth Office/Classified Manager [email protected] Graphic Design Ashleigh Carter Art Director [email protected] ALEXTIMES LLC Denise Dunbar Managing Partner The Ariail family William Dunbar HOW TO REACH US 110 S. Pitt St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-739-0001 (main) 703-739-0120 (fax) www.alextimes.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your comments to: [email protected] Letters must be signed by the writer. Include address and phone for verification (not for publication). Letters are subject to editing for clarity and length. Personal attacks will not be published. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 25 Obituaries Jean S. Butler, of Alexandria, December 10, 2012 Dorothy M. Lewis, of Alexandria, December 3, 2012 George T. Churchill (90), of Alexandria, November 26, 2012 Nancy P. McCarthy (90), of Alexandria, December 9, 2012 James W. Colvin (63), formerly of Alexandria, December 6, 2012 Flossie I. Ruch (88), of Alexandria, November 25, 2012 Raymond D. Kline, of Alexandria, December 15, 2012 Michael L. Whitley (50), of Alexandria, December 8, 2012 Jerry L. Winchester, of Alexandria, December 12, 2012 Michael H. Woodson, of Alexandria, December 10, 2012 Walter W. Wright Sr., of Alexandria, December 8, 2012 ® DECEMBER 31, 2012 ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK An Old Town New Year’s Eve Party 18 indoor venues with live music, dancing, and family entertainment FIREWORKS ON THE POTOMAC PLUS afternoon adventures with the Fourth Annual Fun Hunt and new creative and culinary activities all around town Don’t miss the area’s largest, safest, family-friendly, budget-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration! Children 12 and under, and active military are FREE ~ Miss Diamond is Waiting ~ At 3 years of age, our little jewel, Diamond, is a gem of a pet. A gray and white Domestic Shorthair, Diamond shines most brilliantly in the company of humans. She is hoping for a new home where cats are revered. As sweet as her portrait shows, Diamond is a rare find who will be your loving companion, loyal and true. She represents the many cats of Alexandria who are waiting in joyful hope of a new home in the New Year! TO MAKE A TAX DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION TO THE WAITING PETS OF ALEXANDRIA, PLEASE VISIT US AT www.alexandriaanimals.org ~ Thank you ~ Badge and schedule information at FirstNightAlexandria.org The Fireworks are Back! The Alexandria Animal Shelter’s Pet of the Week is sponsored by Diann Hicks. 703-628-2440 www.diannhicks.com 26 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES At Home Decorating the halls for the holidays by Elaine Markoutsas For most of the country, red and green are part of the DNA of Christmas decorating, much like Hanukkah is imprinted with blue. From evergreen garlands and trees to Santas, Rudolph’s red nose, candy canes and poinsettias, the hues are ubiquitous. But the key word here is decorating. “People don’t decorate around red and green,” says home design author and expert Gale Steves. “They’re looking for simpler [styles] and colors that are more complementary to their homes.” “Holiday decorating no longer is limited to specific colors or symbols,” says Chicagobased Susan Fredman, who heads an interior design firm and retail operation. “Today it really reflects the joy and whimsy of the season. Whether it is a nod to simpler times, bringing nature indoors or gathering decor from holidays all over the globe, what mat- ters is that that your [seasonal] decor creates a comforting environment for you and your loved ones.” As tastes have become more defined and refined in recent years, so too have the choices for decking the halls in style. Got modern? Options for holiday ornamentation limited just 10 years ago are plentiful today. Traditional palette doesn’t go with your decor? No worries. Even pear, orange, magenta, lime, purple and turquoise have been assimilated into the holiday color vocabulary. One bright example is an entry scene created by the catalog boutique RSH. It spotlights a glittery ball wreath and 49inch tall finials framing a hot pink door. There are even hot pink sparkly candles in the iron and glass wall sconces. Bright or muted, matte or shiny, beaded or not, with a range of fabrics from simple linens and burlaps to elegant velvets, silks and brocades, even certain designers with a signature style have weighed in with the holiday spirit. A mix of patterns and black-andwhite checkerboard motifs that characterize Mackenzie Childs ceramics and tinware, for example, translate beautifully to ornaments and festive patchwork stockings or tree skirts available at Neiman Marcus. Suzanne Kasler, an Atlanta designer who has a furniture collection with Hickory Chair, as well as a line of products for Ballard Designs, has brought her touch to a selection of SEE deck the halls | 27 HOME OF THE WEEK Sunny Del Ray farmhouse features lots of character and charm This wonderful 1920s farmhouse — in the heart of Del Ray — sits on a large corner lot. The light-filled home features all the character and charm imaginable, including a white picket fence and large front porch with swing. A grand foyer welcomes guests and opens to the living room, with lots of windows, as well as a formal dining room with moldings. The spacious kitchen provides ample counter and cabinet space and also has access to the large yard. The lovely house also contains three upperlevel bedrooms and a beautiful, recently finished lower level, which includes a family room with full bath. The home rests in a convenient location as well: just a block from shops and restaurants on “The Avenue” and close to the Metro. photo/mcenearney associates At a Glance: Location: 112 E. Alexandria Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2.5 Contact: Price: $739,000 Christine Garner at Square Footage: 2,096 703-587-4855 or [email protected] Built: 1920 (Top left) This lovely farmhouse sits on a large corner lot in Del Ray. (Above) The spacious entry foyer opens to the living room. (Left) The formal dining room features hardwood floors and moldings. ADVERTORIAL WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM deck the halls FROM | 26 Christmas decorations, including tabletop trees, placemats and napkins, tree skirts and stockings, along with a snowflake-bordered sisal rug. Her casual, tailored stocking designs include burlap with traditional red tartan cuffs and matching piping and natural linen with olive green or creamy white velvet cuffs. The fabrics, among her favorites, december 20, 2012 | 27 reindeer, for example, with slender legs rocking matching blue boots, can’t help but bring a smile. Current design trends are informing holiday decor more and more. Some retailers even group collections thematically. At Neiman Marcus and Horchow, there are six: Joyeaux Noel, which includes on-trend hues and script patterns from French Laundry Home; Alpine, which features tartan plaids and natural elements; photo/Garnet Hill Christmas decorations don’t have to shout red and green, although in this living room, red becomes an engaging accent against winter whites. A creamy palette and themes of nature dominate, with a wreath crafted from pinecones and delicate wire branches coated in glitter from Garnet Hill. she says, “work beautifully in any decor.” Even the most iconic figures — the nativity, Santas, reindeer and angels — can be found in a modern array of colors and styles. If you live near water, there’s a coastal Santa in ocean blue and stockings that sport seashells, coral and the like. The fanciful figures of artist Patience Brewster are distinguished by unorthodox hues like magenta. A pastel blue Artisan has playful felts and handcrafted wood; Champagne Frost employs ivory and gold; Blue Spruce; and Bordeaux. Gray, which has gained popularity in wood finishes and fabric, is a surprise addition to stockings, tree skirts, and even angels and nativity figures. Emerald and teal tones are expanding green palettes. The richness is especially smashing when paired with white, as in deep green stockings and tree skirt with white appliqued and beaded pomegranates at Wisteria. Design geeks on top of color trends will appreciate Vetro glass ornaments from the Italian firm Seletti. Colored on top and labeled “PANTONE Universe” on the white bottom-third with its respective color number ($16 apiece at www.susanfredmanathome. com). Pantone, of course, is the standardized color reproduction system used in virtually every industry. Animal prints also have emerged as holiday design motifs. At Ballard Designs, decorative leopard and zebra patterns are chain stitched in gray, cream and taupe over white cotton duck stockings. And among Jay Strongwater’s bejeweled ornaments is one oval shape that’s handenameled and hand-painted with a leopard design and red Swarovski crystal studded “ribbon.” Embellishments such as beading and embroidery have been a major thread in textile design, and they’re especially beautiful in decor at this time of year. Texture also adds interest, especially in trees made from pinecones or pieces of wood. Threedimensional pillows, such as one with an appliqued poinsettia in felt on linen at West Elm, parallel floral themes and styles we’ve seen on pillows in recent years. Pillows make a good seasonal add-on to existing decor, and more retailers are including them in holiday decor. Anything that adds a spritz of glitz, of course, is welcome. Metallic touches — gold, silver or copper — especially in the company of candles (faux or real), dress up and glow. A simple silver bowl filled with pretty glass ornaments in frosted white or green can add shimmer. And fresh greens, pinecones and berries bring in nature as well as scent. Seasonal displays may incorporate things you love, vintage, sentimental and the like. CB2’s holiday catalog shows how HGTV design stars Rob- ert and Cortney Novogratz do it, with a traditional marble mantel topped with glass and silver trees as well as cylinders filled with green and white striped candy canes and some surprises (tootsie rolls!). “We love to host for the holidays, and decorating is just as much a part of the celebration as the actual party,” the pair states on the site. Incorporating vintage pieces and dressing them with lights “is a way to reflect who we are.” It’s a great lesson in balancing traditional and modern, mixing warm and fuzzy with more streamlined objects. Gale Steves has come around to a less is more attitude. “There is a bit of wretched excess,” she says. “Some who collect all year feel they have to bring everything out. You should give your decorations a rest. And do not decorate your kitchen (think Santa cookie jars). It is your work area, and it just creates clutter.” Ultimately, decorating for Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s is highly personal. It’s a matter of how much color, glitter and stuff you want to weave in — and how much time and energy you are willing to invest to do it. For many, decorating is part of the fun of the holidays. As long as you’re spreading good cheer and it feels good, by all means, have at it! The Lamplighter From the office to the bedroom, this simple lamp is so versatile it fits in any décor! Come in and see for yourself what makes this the hottest selling lamp in the store! Available in 6 different finishes 1207 King Street Alexandria, VA 703-549-4040 www.lamplighterlamps.com 28 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Alexandria Times’ Cause of the Month The Alexandria Times will donate a portion of every paid display ad in December to our Cause of the Month. Please join us in contributing to this worthy cause. December’s cause: The Alexandria School for the Performing Arts offers quality arts lessons with experienced and certified teachers. These lessons are offered to the community at very low program service fees to benefit low income families and at risk children in Alexandra. Six disciplines of arts lessons are available: Piano Lab, Guitar Lab, Brass Techniques, Dance, Vocal Pedagogy and Percussion Techniques. Classes are offered during fall, winter, and spring terms, nine weeks each, and the program fees are $70.00 per term. A recital is held at the end of each term to highlight the achievements of each student. Contact: Cheryl Jones-Gage 1804 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria, VA 22301 703-836-2427 THE STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE MERRIMACK, SS SUPERIOR COURT Pets dig Spaaah mobile pets FROM | 10 vehicle so dogs can roam around while waiting to be pampered without the confinement of a crate. “We’re trying to offer red carpet service,” Robertson said. Though the van had its grand opening Tuesday, Spaaah mobile already is booked until next month, with many customers already purring about the new service. “I had one customer say she was happy she didn’t have to put her dirty dog in the back of her BMW,” Robertson recalled. “We have a lot of people excited and that excites me too.” Upon Spaaah mobile’s arrival, owners can choose from an array of services, including a pampered groom and a deluxe pampered groom. Each four-legged client receives a butter balm paw massage, and pets leave with either a bow or bandana. The furry friends also trot beneath a mist of luxury fragrance — the Spaaah offers scents ranging from peppermint for the holiday season to papaya — before they depart to leave them smelling sweet. In addition, Spaaah groomers brush each pet’s teeth, but not before they enjoy designer water and gourmet treats baked specially by the company’s “pawstry chef.” For pet owners crunched for time, Spaaah mobile offers a splash and dash — an hour-long treatment including a shampoo. And for the ultimate pet pamper, owners can request a cherry or blueberry facial, complete with hot towels to halt your pooch’s aging process. “We wanted to offer VIP service to clients,” Robertson said. “And what’s more VIP than coming to their house?” Docket No. 08-E-0053 In the Matter of the Liquidation of Noble Trust Company NOTICE OF HEARINGS PlEASE TAKE NOTICE that on April 17, 2012, Ronald A. Wilbur, Bank Commissioner for the State of New Hampshire, in his capacity as liquidator of Noble Trust Company (the “liquidator” and “Noble Trust,” respectively), filed the liquidator’s Motion for Approval of Settlement and Release Agreement with PHl Variable Insurance Company (the “Phoenix Settlement Motion”), and that on or before December 28, 2012, the liquidator anticipates filing motions to approve certain separate settlement and release agreements with American National Insurance Company, AXA Equitable life Insurance Company, Credit Suisse AG, Credit Suisse lending Trust (USA) 2, Credit Suisse lending Trust (USA) 3, The lincoln National life Insurance Company, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Upon executing settlement and release agreements with any of these parties, the liquidator intends to file motions to approve those agreements (together with the Phoenix Settlement Motion, the “Settlement Motions”). Copies of the Settlement Motions and the related agreements will be available for review during regular office hours at the Office of the Clerk, Merrimack County Superior Court, 163 North Main Street, Concord, New Hampshire, 03302, or may be obtained upon request of The Office of Noble liquidation, Attn: Abigail Shaine (Tel.: (603) 625-6733), or viewed on the New Hampshire Banking Department’s web site (www.nh.gov/banking/nobletrust/). IF GRANTED, THE SETTlEMENT MOTIONS WIll RESUlT IN THE SURRENDER, CANCEllATION, OR OTHER TERMINATION OF CERTAIN lIFE INSURANCE POlICIES ISSUED TO OR FOR THE BENEFIT OF NOBlE TRUST ClIENTS, AND A RElEASE OF THE SETTlING PARTIES FROM All ClAIMS RElATING TO THOSE POlICIES. YOU ARE URGED TO CAREFUllY AND THOROUGHlY REVIEW THE SETTlEMENT MOTIONS, THE SETTlEMENT AGREEMENTS AND All OTHER RElATED PlEADINGS, AND CONSUlT WITH YOUR OWN lEGAl ADVISORS AS YOU SEE FIT. PlEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that on January 24, 2013 at 1:30 p.m., prevailing Eastern Time, or as soon thereafter as counsel may be heard, a hearing will be held at the Merrimack County Superior Court, 163 North Main Street, Concord, New Hampshire, 03302, on the Settlement Motions. PlEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that objections to the Settlement Motions, if any, must be filed with the Clerk of Court at the above address, and served upon counsel for the liquidator at their respective addresses shown below, counsel identified in the particular Settlement Motion to which the objection pertains (as set forth in the Settlement Motion), and upon all other counsel of record (whose names and addresses may be obtained from the Clerk’s Office), so as to be actually received by all such parties on or before January 10, 2013. Christopher M. Candon, Sheehan Phinney Bass + Green, PA, 1000 Elm Street, P.O. Box 3701, Manchester, NH 03105-3701, [email protected], Fax: (603) 627-8121 Peter C.l. Roth, Senior Assistant Attorney General, Office of the Attorney General, 33 Capitol Street, Concord, NH 03301-6397, [email protected], Fax: (603) 271-2110 Dated: November 28, 2012 Holiday Raff le December’s Holiday Raffle Winner: Barbara Corcoran Barbara won a $100 gift certificate to the advertiser of her choice! ALEXANDRIA PLANNING COMMISSION JANUARY - 2013 ================================================= The items described below will be heard by the Planning Commission and the City Council on the following dates. NOTICE: Some of the items listed below may be placed on a consent calendar. A consent item will be approved at the beginning of the meeting without discussion unless someone asks that it be taken off the consent calendar and considered separately. The Planning Commission reserves the right to recess and continue the public hearing to a future date. For further information call the Department of Planning and Zoning on 703-746-4666. ALEXANDRIA PLANNING COMMISSION THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2013 7:30 PM, CITY HALL CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 301 KING STREET ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA ALEXANDRIA CITY COUNCIL SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 2013 9:30 AM, CITY HALL CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 301 KING STREET ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA The Planning Commission will hold a work session regarding the Sanitary Sewer Master Plan on January 3, 2013 at 6:30pm in the City Hall Council Workroom. Master Plan Amendment #2012-0006 Rezoning #2012-0004 Development Special Use Permit #2011-0028 City Charter Section 9.06 Case #2012-0004 114, 116, 116 ½, 118, 118 ½ and 120 East Reed Avenue and 3600 Jefferson Davis Highway - East Reed Multifamily Public hearing and consideration of a request for a (A) an amendment to the Potomac West Small Area Plan Chapter of the Master Plan to amend the land use map from CDD/Coordinated Development District to CRMU/Commercial Residential Mixed Use and the zoning map from CDD #7/Coordinated Development District to CRMU-M/Commercial residential mixed used medium zone and to amend the height map to increase the allowable height from 45 feet to 60 feet; (B) a map amendment (rezoning) to amend the zone from CDD #7/Coordinated Development District to CRMU-M/Commercial Residential Mixed-Use Medium; (C) a development special use permit, with site plan, to construct a multifamily residential building including special use permit requests for increased floor area for mixed-use residential/ retail development pursuant to Section 5-205(c) of the zoning ordinance and increased floor area and a parking reduction for the provision of affordable housing pursuant to Section 7-700 of the zoning ordinance; and (D) a request for Planning Commission to review whether the proposed sale of property owned by the City of Alexandria and the resulting change in use of that property is consistent with the City of Alexandria Master Plan pursuant to Section 9.06 of the City Charter.; zoned CDD#7/Coordinated Development District. Applicant: AHC, Inc represented by Duncan Blair, attorney for MPA #2012-0006, REZ #2012-0004 and DSUP #2011-0028 and City of Alexandria for City Charter Section 9.06 Case #2012 0004 Special Use Permit #2012-0077 106 Hume Avenue - Emma’s Public hearing and consideration of a request for a restaurant (coffee shop and wine bar) and a request for a parking reduction; zoned CL/Commercial Low. Applicant: Connie Desrosiers Special Use Permit #2012-0078 3401 Mount Vernon Avenue Public hearing and consideration of a request to operate a restaurant and a request for a parking reduction; zoned CSL/ Commercial Service Low. Applicant: Jose Mario Cabero and Jose Guillermo Cabero by Mabel Tweddle, agent Text Amendment #2013-0001 A)Initiation of a text amendment; B)Public hearing and consideration of a text amendment to the zoning ordinance to permit schools and day care centers in the I/Industrial zone with approval of an administrative Special Use Permit. Staff: Department of Planning and Zoning WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 29 Alexandria’s NONPROFITs Making a difference every day. You can make a difference with your tax deductible donation to charity. Please donate to these worthy causes. Last year Guest House programs worked directly to support over 300 justice involved women and their children in our community. Please consider helping us continue this vital work: Volunteer (tutors, mentors, office help) Goods (hygiene products, metro passes, gift cards) Donations (online to honor your favorite “hard-to-buy for”) 1 East Luray Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 549-8072 www.friendsofguesthouse.org This year, give a senior a gift of compassion. For a donation of $25 or greater, you can sponsor a senior citizen who may receive a visit from a community neighbor, a hot meal delivered to their home or assistance with life’s daily challenges. We’ll honor your friend, family or loved one with a beautiful Senior Services of Alexandria holiday greeting. This holiday season you can give a gift that enriches, educates, and engages people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their families with your support of Alzheimer’s Family Day Center. DO N TO ATE DA Y! Email Development@ seniorservicesalex.org Include the name and address of the person receiving the gift. Go to www.seniorservicesalex.org Click “DONATE” Mail to: Senior Services of Alexandria, 700 Princess Street, Mezzanine Level, Alexandria,VA 22314 Include the name and address of the person receiving the gift. 703-204-4664 2812 Old Lee Hwy, #210 Fairfax, VA 22031 www.AlzheimersFDC.org Building Boats ... Building Lives Helping young people improve their lives through the building of wooden boats. Make your Holiday Gift Matter! Donate today! PURCHASE YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT contact Kathy Seifert at [email protected] or call 703-549-7078. Your gift could purchase books, backpacks, class supplies, lumber, tools, lunch, building materials and more! | www.alexandriaseaport.org The Nonprofit Directory will run until the end of the year. 30 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Classifieds Make a decision you can feel good about. At Coverall, we make owning your own business an attainable goal. Join a leading commercial cleaning franchise system in a growing industry. • Financing Available • Billing & Collections Services • Comprehensive Training • Initial Customer Base With as low as $2000 down, there has never been an easier way to start a business for yourself. What can the Times do for you? 703.739.0001 Call 301-710-0444 or visit www.CoverallWashingtonDC.com and change your future today. Weekly Words 69 Some Arab leaders 70 Optimistic confectioner’s motto? 72 Baton Rouge campus, briefly 73 Woofer output 74 “The Tao of Pooh” author Benjamin 75 Something to shake or lend 76 Bits of helpful advice 77 “That turns my stomach!” 78 Julia of “Kiss of the Spider Woman” 79Companion 82 Fork projections 83 Cologne (with “eau de”) 85 “Lost time is never found again,” e.g. 86 “Want to grab a bite?” 87 Sewing junctions 88 DVD player button 89 Best buds 90 Breathing inhibitor 92 City betrayed by a horse? 93 Ontario neighbor 97 Hotel rental 98 Intellectual’s saying 102 Distinctive atmosphere 103Creepy 104 Opening spiel 105 “No ice, bartender” 106 ___ Mawr (Philly suburb) 107 Coachman’s handful 108 Sudden burst of energy 109 Water whirl DOWN ACROSS 1 5 10 15 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 Scandinavian royal name Force forward Get ___ of (grab) ___ Ant (cartoon superhero) Nobel laureate Morrison Without worldly sophistication Forearm bones “Comin’ ___the Rye” “What you don’t know can’t hurt you” Broken-down auto Caulking materials, e.g. Property claim for outstanding debt 29 Adverb with “optimistic” 31 Geometric calculation 32 Object of worship 34 Pickler’s solution 35 Writer of quick notes 38 Window covering 39Spinsters 42 Wedding party member 43Pillager 44 Neckline shapes 45 “What did I tell you?” 46 Cooked up stories 47 Hot sandwich 48 Cold one 49 50 51 55 56 58 59 60 61 62 63 65 66 Piece of cake Always, to an old poet Age-old adage about romance Patton portrayer Acts as a chair Praises mightily Wide strips Bout of shopping indulgence Represents in drawing Talia of “Rocky” Sacred observance Dance of Cuban origin One who doesn’t pay parking tickets 1 Elevator company 2 Theater box 3 Tutor in “The King and I” 4 Disregarded, as a law 5 More asinine 6 Large ray 7 Celebrity mag staples 8 Dec. 31, for one 9 Muumuu accessory 10Decider 11 “Rock Around the Clock” rocker 12 Frigg’s husband, in Norse myth 13 Fleur-de-___ (Quebec symbol) 14Chaos 15 Daughter of Zeus 16 “Who knows?” 17 Like some confessions Belle H av en Mari Alexand 703-768-00 ria, VA 22307 18 www.s aildc.com na We have definitely received calls from our adve rtising in Alexandr ia Times . - George george.s te Stevens vens@w dn.com 703-868 -5566 18 Sad and long-faced 24 Less common 25 Trombone piece 30 Energies or zeals 32 Garb for Gandhi 33 “___, drink and be merry” 34 Need sutures 35 Bourbon drink 36 Tree that provides wicker 37 “You know everything else” 38 Brogue bottoms 39 Cooking vessels 40 Arthur Miller’s “___ of a Salesman” 41 Family clans 43 Bank security feature? 47 Catwalk walker 48 Actions on the auction floor 49 Accessory for an old-time flying ace 51 Old Italian money 52 “Ghostbusters” goo 53 Classic Disney character 54 Pale-green moths 55 Gulliver’s author 57 NBA team based in Texas 59 Furnished with footgear 61 Sail into the wind 62Aroma 63 Counter, as an argument 64 Grown-up bug 65 Tin soldier’s prop 66 Bee formation 67 “___ your instructions ...” 68Weak-willed 70Oafs 71 “Ask away!” 74Milliner 76 Black mineral 78 Copier paper order 79 Coaxes with flattery 80 Daisy type 81 “Andy Capp” sound effect 82 Bulb in a bed 84 ___ Brothers (failed invest ment banking firm) 86 Cab type 88 Rommel known as the “Desert Fox” 89 Alternative to singles, in figure skating 90 Part of UAR 91 Like Aesop’s grapes 92 Spelling in some TV credits 93 “... I ___ man with seven wives” 94 Ran up a tab 95 Jewelry piece 96Pretentious 99 Bridal bio word 100 Insult, slangily 101 A country’s output, for short Last Week’s Solution: WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM december 20, 2012 | 31 Business Directory Home Services Floor Waxing Service • Old fashioned paste wax method • Working owners assure quality • Residential service a specialty • All work done by hand • Careful workmanship • Serving local area for 30 years Licensed - Bonded - Insured 703-356-4459 • Family Owned/Operated DREAM WEAVER CARPETS INC. Residential & Commercial Authorized Shaw Carpet Dealer 7655 Fullerton Rd. Springfield, VA 22153 703.440.9090 | [email protected] Carlos F. Painting, Inc. • Interior/Exterior Painting SpeCial • All Carpentry Work priCeS for Empty Houses • Water Damage • Pressure Washing Decks & Homes 703.314.1287 • AllegroLLC.net 703.314.1287 AllegroLLC.net Whole-house Generators Panel Replacement Lighting Carlos Fuentes References & Guaranteed 571.233.7667 • www.carlosfpainting.com www.alextimes.com barbershop Hoffman Center Barber Shop Regular Haircut $14.00 Military (All Branches) $11.00 In the Atrium Hoffman Town Center Across from Eisenhower AMC Theater Swamp Fox Rd. Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm Sat. 8am - 12pm 703.960.4648 Paving & Masonry - Driveway Specialists • Walkways • Retaining Walls • Patios • Stoops • Pointing and Sealing Senior Citizen Discount • Driveways • Private Roads • Tennis Courts • Parking Lots • Patch and Sealing Office: 855.268.5625 Cell: 571.480.0846 serving the entire va, dc, md areas Special Winter Discounts Call TODay fOr a frEE ESTiMaTE Mike’s Carpet Cleaning 5 Rooms Only $125 Carpet Cleaning Upholstery Cleaning Carpet Stretching Carpet Repair Oriental Rugs Pet Problem Experts 24Hour Emergency Water Damage Mold Remediation Quality Service Since 1977 35 Years Experience – Including The White House! For More Info Call 703-978-2270 Window Cleaning • Working owners assure quality • Careful workmanship • All work done by hand • Residential service a specialty • Serving local area for 30 years Licensed - Bonded - Insured 703-356-4459 • Family Owned/Operated www.alextimes.com RENTAL Applecartruckrental.com Local auto-van & truck rental Open 7 Days a week Advertise your business or service. Contact Kristen Essex at kessex@ alextimes.com Ask about our Holiday Discount! 7849 Richmond Hwy. Suite J Alexandria, Va 22306 703-549-4493 MEDICAL Holistic Family Medicine We are experts at whole body / mind approach to optimal wellness and healing including the scientific use of acupuncture, nutrition, vitamins, supplements and herbs. www.CaringDoc.com • 703.671.2700 • [email protected] 32 | december 20, 2012 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Season's Greetings from all of us at mcenearney associates realtors® John McEnearney, Chairman Maureen McEnearney Dunn, President Dave Hawkins, Managing Broker Michael Day, Assistant Managing Broker RESIDENTIAL AGENTS Jan Allison Paul Anderson Susan Anthony Robin Arnold Barbara Baird Mason Montague Bavin Babs Beckwith Margaret Benghauser Vicki Binkley Lauren Bishop Kay Blemker Vici Boguess Amy Brodie Brenda Gail Brown Ginny Brzezinski Clay Burke Jud Burke Julian Burke Jodie Burns Delaine Campbell Carol Cleary Cindy Clemmer Laurel Conger Colleen Coopersmith Pam Cornelio Barbara Cousens Susan Craft Donna Cramer Liz Crawford Waldi Crawford Peter Crouch Pat Crusenberry Catherine Davidson Pat Day Courtney DeVries Susan Dickerson Joan Dixon Ann Duff Josephine Erkiletian Mary Farrell Christine Fischer Allison Goodhart Marty Goodhart Sue Goodhart Rochelle Gray Joanne Gunn Jennifer Halm Sally Harper Chris Hayes Dee Hester Annette Hinaman Wayne Holland Pauline Hurd Debora Jackson Noel Kaupinen Jillian Keck Nancy Jo Kemp Sarah King Suzanne Kovalsky Betsy Leavitt Susan Leavitt Julie Lineberry Elizabeth Lucchesi Joseph Lydon Michael Makris Betty Mallon Jane Manstof Cindi Mariano Bob Martini Michael Mayes Sallie McBrien Sean McEnearney Jill McGillivray Jeffery McGlothlin Sandy McMaster Ann Michael Joel Miller Kathryn Montalbano Genevieve Moorhouse Suzanne Morrison Brian Murphy George Myers Lydia Odle Kate Patterson Doug Peed Betty Potter Janet Price Ginger Quinn David Rainey Mary Ashley Rhule Betty Rice Jessica Richardson Christine Ricketts Christopher Robinson Suzanne Runyon Dave Sanasack Charlene Schaper Nada Seide Joan Shannon Phyllis Sintay Patricia Smith Sandra Sperry Joy Sutherland Susan Taylor Julianne Waesche Jennifer Walker Suellen West Cherie Wilderotter Cecily Winchell Gordon Wood Ann Yanagihara Meiling Yang Kristie Zimmerman Sissy Zimmerman COMMERCIAL AGENTS Ed Cave Charles Hulfish Tom Hulfish Chuck Langdon Mike Lucker John Quinn Brison Rohrbach John Ross Rick Sada Diane Sappenfield Bob Swearingen AGENT ASSISTANTS Margaret Brosnan Rixey Canfield Alyssa Cannon Shauna Carlson Colleen Connolly Jennifer Connors Kate Crawley Sharene Doles Shea Friedman Margo Heegeman Frida Hopper Susan McAteer Susan McVety Anne Norberg Jamyn Page Ania Szczepanska Amy Trevisan Holli Wallace Wendy Washo Mary Margaret Wescott Jill Wilson Donnet Yatsko PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Cindy Troupe RELOCATION SERVICES Betsy Myers Sylvia Pacheco Jean Sackin McENEARNEY STAFF Roxie Bowie Edita Capin Kathy Cooper Naima Doles Laurie Howard Felton Katy Fike Katie Frontino Naomi Gonyea Tyler Hallman Amanda Nixon Pat Shoultes GEORGE MASON MORTGAGE Brian Bonnet Carey Meushaw Amanda Wallingford 109 S. Pitt Street • Alexandria, Virginia 22314 McEnearney.com • 703.549.9292 Equal Housing Opportunity