Alexandria - Ellington

35 Pages·2012·9.96 MB·English

Alexandria
Gazette Packet
Page 31
25 Cents
Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper May 17, 2012
Beauregard Boom
Community
Yard Sale City Council approves massive
development over bitter opposition.
The lower parking
lot at Minnie Howard
Ninth Grade Center
By Michael Lee Pope
was trimmed with Candidates Who
Gazette Packet
tables laden with O
Support
goods for sale on
nce again, members
Saturday, May 12.
of the Alexandria Beauregard Plan
Vendors offered shoes
City Council cast
and accessories, gently
aside hours of bitter ❖ Melissa Feld
used clothing, house- ❖ Donna Fossum
hold items, books, toys opposition to support a controver- ❖ Sean Holihan
sial plan. This time, though, an ❖ Tim Lovain
and more.
election is days away. And candi- ❖ Del Pepper
❖ Justin Wilson
dates will be judged in part on
Photos by Louise T.C. Williams students Shavonni Dickens, Dale Hacker and La- their support or opposition to the Candidates Who
Krafft/Gazette tavia Taylor set up a booth for the junior class. At the conclusion Beauregard small-area plan, a con-
Packet of the sale, all unsold items were donated to the Salvation Army. troversial proposal to demolish Oppose
hundreds of low-end garden apart-
Beauregard Plan
ments in favor of high-end hous-
ing, offices and hotels. During a
❖ John Taylor Chapman
contentious daylong public hear- ❖ Michael Hepburn
ing on the plan Saturday, oppo- ❖ Victoria Menjivar
nents of the plan were calling for ❖ Sammie Moshenberg
❖ Arthur Peabody
Antonett Battle, Paris 20 percent of the units to be set ❖ Alison Silberberg
Jones and Kahia aside as dedicated affordable ❖ Paul Smedberg
Anderson offer Avon housing. ❖ Boyd Walker
products for sale. “Nobody is saying no to the 20
Antonett is raising percent. It could be 50 percent. lar. And that’s the hang-up. That’s
money for her first Pick a number,” said Mayor Bill what inhibits us in meeting any
year of college in the Euille in response to one of the goal.”
fall. speakers. “No matter what the
number is, it’s the almighty dol- See Council, Page 27
A Divided Slate
Treaty of Four Mile Run?
Factions emerge among Democrats
approaching June 12 primary.
A potential compromise to “It’s fair to say there’s competition,” said Lovain, a
former member of the Alexandria City Council. “But
ongoing dispute between
there may also be a solution.” By Michael Lee Pope hotly contested race. A handful of
Behind the scenes, Lovain and others have been Gazette Packet political action committees have
Arlington and Alexandria.
urging officials on both sides of Four Mile Run to W emerged in recent days to support
broker a compromise. Instead of extending the street- ith four weeks until the rival slates of candidates, adding
car line from the border of Arlington to the Braddock Democratic primary to the heat of competition among
By Michael Lee Pope Road Metro. The alternativeºscenario under discus- for Alexandria City the 14 Democrats seeking six
Gazette packet sion would terminate the streetcar line at the new Council, the city’s Democrats are
B Potomac Yard Metro station, the location of which forming opposing factions in the See Factions, Page 7
ack in October 2010, Northern Virginia Street has yet to be determined. Arlington and Alexandria
car Coalition chairman Tim Lovain feared would then enter a joint application for a Small Starts
what he called a “disaster” on the horizon — grant that would include a stop at the Arlington side
transit corridor commuters may be facing a day when of Four Mile Run and extend through Alexandria to
41322 AV ,airdnaxelA
they would have to get off an Arlington streetcar and the new Metro station. ,.tS gniK 4061 :oT
board an Alexandria bus. Now that disaster could “It makes perfect sense to me that the Arlington detseuqeR ecivreS sserddA
.lairetam
become a reality as the two neighboring jurisdictions streetcar should terminate at a Metro, although there
evitisnes-emiT
are moving in different directions, with Arlington might be some raised eyebrows at the FTA,” said :retsamtsoP
seeking Small Starts funding for the Columbia Pike Lovain, a registered lobbyist with Denny Miller As- noitnettA
streetcar project and Alexandria seeking Small Starts sociates. “It’s a little unconventional, but I think it 284# timreP
AV ,airdnaxelA
funding from the Federal Transit Administration for DIAP
the Crystal City Potomac Yard transit corridor. See Seeking Solutions, Page 34 eDgTatSs ToRP S.SR.PU
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 ❖ 1
2 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
Week in Alexandria
Can the Circle Be Broken? Think
What happens to members of city boards and commissions who
get sued by the city government? It’s an awkward question, one
that Alexandria now faces in the Alexandria Circuit Court.
Pink!
“We don’t envy suing any of our appointed boards or commis-
sions,” said Mayor Bill Euille. “In my tenure of 18 years on the P
h
City Council, I believe this is the first time we have ever done o
t
such.” o
Last week, city officials filed an appeal to a decision issued last Designs sought by
J
month by the Board of Zoning Appeals. That decision, rendered e
a
for breast cancer n
in a late-night meeting, overturned Planning Director Faroll n
e
Hamer’s determination that property owners in Old Town were T
walk t-shirts. h
not able to file a protest petition requiring a supermajority vote e
to pass the controversial waterfront plan. C ism
a
“This appeal is absurd,” said Bert Ely, a member of the water- alling all artists. The Al- nn
front work group. “The city will have to pay additional thou- exandria Fire Depart- /G
sands of dollars in fees to provide legal counsel to the BZA since ment is seeking submis- az
e
it is among the main respondents in the city’s appeal.” sions for the logo for this year’s tt
e
Not so, says City Attorney James Banks. pink breast cancer walk t-shirts P
a
“The BZA does not need to have counsel,” said Banks, adding which are worn by fire department ck
that Fairfax County took a similar position in a recent case. “It is personnel during October — the et
the city’s position at this point that we will not incur the expense month of the City’s Walk to Fight Firefighters Kim Bosser, Sokthear Van, Fred Ruff and
of providing them such outside counsel.” Breast Cancer. Capt. Phil Perry sell t-shirts to raise funds for the Walk to
Ely and others have also suggested that suing the BZA is un- Last October, fire personnel Fight Breast Cancer at the Women Mean Business auction
necessary because the city can always change the part of the wore the shirts as part of their last September. Submissions are being sought for the logo
code in question. That way, the decision does not set a precedent uniform and sold 1,500 shirts rais- for this year’s shirt.
and the city could avoid taking its own board to court. Again, ing $9,000 for the Walk to Fight
Banks disagrees, saying the suit is necessary to set the record Breast Cancer Fund. This fund printed on pink shirts. Deadline for [email protected].
straight. helps uninsured women pay for submissions is June 1. Mail design For more information, contact Sa-
“The city is just simply in a position where we’ve got to clarify mammograms. and contact information to Station rah Watson at
that as an underlying matter,” he said. “Otherwise, we’ll be in an There is a three-color limit for 201, 317 Prince St., Alexandria, VA [email protected]
endless cycle of litigation.” the design and the image will be 22314 or email to or call 703-746-3123.
Dubious Distinction
We’re Number One! Too bad it’s not for something better.
This week an environmental advocacy organization known as
American Rivers issued a report on the state of the nation’s riv-
P
ers. The Potomac River earned the dubious distinction of being h
o
the most endangered river in the country as a result of threats t
o
from pollution and development. c
o
“When a member of Congress makes his or her cup of coffee in u
r
the morning, they are drinking Potomac River water,” said Ameri- te
s
can Rivers president Bob Irvin. “So we all should be concerned y o
about the quality of that water.” f B
The report notes that the Potomac is cleaner than it used to be, rit
although it’s still threatened by urban and agricultural pollu- t L
tion. That’s a problem that could get worse, the report notes, if ec
k
Congress rolls back clean water safeguards. Specifically, group is m
a
urging member of Congress against passing legislation that pre- n
vents the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Corps
The George Washington Middle School Orchestra, conducted by Jonathan Ray Jones,
of Engineers from restoring protections for small streams and
performed April 30 at the John F. Kennedy Center.
wetlands.
“We actually have situations now where many of the male fish Students Perform at Kennedy Center
found in the Potomac River carry eggs,” said Irvin. “That’s not
the way nature intended it.”
An honor for George superior ranked performances, and won first
Biking to Work
place in division as well as first place in the
Washington Middle School.
overall category.
Get out your bike helmet. Dust off your handlebars. Friday “It shows how Support Fine Arts
May 18 is Bike to Work Day. By Montie Martin much the kids en-
This year marks the 15th year that Alexandria has been part of Gazette Packet joy being in the The George Washington Middle
National Bike to Work Day, when thousands of area commuters S School Orchestra operates on a
orchestra, they re-
shoestring budget, with expenses
will ride their bikes to work on this day to promote the use of
tudents with the George Washington Middle ally rise to the oc- that include sheet music, string re-
bicycles as an environmentally friendly way to commute. This
School Orchestra wowed audiences at the casion,” said Diane placements as well as trips to
year, the city will have three “pit stops” that will be part of the Kennedy Center April 30. The orchestra per- Hill, president of competitions. To support the orches-
40 regional spots —ºMarket Square from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.; tra, checks can be made out to:
formed as a part of World Projects Interna- the George Wash- George Washington FOTO and sent
Carlyle Square Park from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.; and the Mark
tional, and held its own on stage with high school ington Middle to Diane Hill, 215 E Custis Ave., Al-
Center Transit Center from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and college groups from as far away as Miami, Fla., School Friends of exandria VA 22301.
The pit stops will include free food, gear and prizes from local
San Luis Obispo and Woodland, Calif. the Orchestra. “Mr.
businesses and sponsors. Alexandria’s locations usually draw
“The level of discipline and musicianship is amaz- Jones works them hard.”
some of the largest crowds, and about 800 participants are ex-
ing,” said Ralph Brooker, who has a daughter in the Jonathan Ray Jones, orchestra director, has
pected this year.
orchestra. “They understand it’s a real honor to per- been teaching students at George Washington for
form here at the Kennedy Center.” 14 years. Unlike other teaching positions, as head
— Michael Lee Pope
The performance came on the heels of big wins at of the orchestra Jones stays with the same middle
the “Music in the Park” event, held April 29 in school students from sixth through eighth grades.
Williamsburg, Va. The group took home trophies for See Kennedy Center, Page 32
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 ❖ 3
People
P
h
o
t
o
b
y
J
e
a
n
n
e
T
h
e
is
m
a
n
n
/
G
a
z
e
t
t
e
P
a
c
k
T.C. Williams scholarship winner Demetry Johnson, et
center, celebrates with his sister Taloni, left, and grand- Mildred Coit gets a hug
mother Ruby Lewis from Tim Hightower.
SSSA senior Maddie Davidson poses with her scholarship
check with Redskins running back Tim Hightower following
the ASC awards dinner May 15 at the Westin Carlyle Hotel.
‘Cherish This Moment”
Tim Hightower all of you for your accomplish-
ments.”
returns to ASC
Hightower recalled his time as
a student at EHS and praised foot-
awards dinner.
ball coach Mark Gowin, who was
R surprised with the Lifetime
edskins running back and Achievement Award. Gowin re-
2004 Episcopal High cently announced his retirement
School graduate Tim after 24 years in coaching.
Hightower joined the Alexandria “I can’t thank coach Gowin
Sportsman’s Club May 15 in hon- enough for all the lessons he
oring the city’s top scholar athletes taught me,” Hightower said.
eight years after he himself was Other awards included the
named athlete of the year by the Sportsman of the Year Award, pre-
club. sented to Gerald File, the Hall of
“It seems like only yesterday,” Fame award to George Washing-
Hightower said prior to taking to ton High School athletic standout Episcopal High School football coach Mark Gowin, Susan
the podium to deliver the keynote Dan Lehman, Coach of the Year to Gowin, Tim Hightower, Kristen MacDonough and Brian
address. Bishop Ireton’s Tony Verducci and Gowin. Mark Gowin was presented with the Lifetime
Hightower praised the student the Civic Award to Denise Dunbar. Achievement Award at the annual ASC awards dinner.
athletes in the room, saying “My hat is off to all of the stu-
“People don’t see what goes on dent athletes in this room,”
behind being the best. You still Hightower said in celebrating the
have to study and do your chores award winners. “Cherish this mo-
then go out on the field and be a ment. You’ll remember it always.”
leader. It’s not easy and I admire — Jeanne Theismann
Sportsman of the Year win-
ner Gerald File, left, receives
his award from past ASC
president Warner Moore.
ASC president Frank Flaherty,
Hall of Fame award winner Dan Lehman, his wife Karen right, presents the Coach of
Tim Hightower signs an autograph for SSSA student Erin Uemoto and Tim Hightower chat following the ASC an- the Year award to Bishop
Phillips, 12, and her father Dave. nual awards dinner May 15. Ireton’s Tony Verducci
4 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
P
h
o
t
o
s
b
y
J
e
a
n
n
e

T
h
e
is
m
a
n
n
/
G
a
z
e
t
t
e
P
a
c
k
e
t
The historic Skipjack Minnie V. takes its maiden voyage from the Alexandria City
Dock May 12.
All Aboard
Alexandria
now home to
historic Skipjack
Minnie V.
Capt. Robert Laurence
demonstrates safety pre-
cautions prior to the inau-
gural sail of the Skipjack
Minnie V. from Alexandria
City Dock May 12.
By Jeanne Theismann last commercial sailing fleet in the nation. Still the Prices Slashed Throughout the ENTIRE STORE!
Gazette Packet state boat of Maryland, fewer than 30 skipjacks re-
T main in operation today.
Our door close forever on Saturday, June 2!
he distinctive click of digital cameras filled “Where we go depends on the winds,” said
the air as a crowd of onlookers gathered May Laurence, who raises the massive sails up the 57- Don’t miss out on these incredible deals! Fixtures still available!
12 to capture the historic skipjack Minnie V. foot tall mast once the skipjack leaves the dock. “To- 60% off and More!
departing on its maiden voyage from the Alexandria day the winds are coming up from the south, which Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom, Bar Mitzvah, Bat Mitzvah,
COUPON
City Dock. will make for a nice sail up the river.” Second Wedding, Special Occasion, Ball Gowns, and More! Choose
“The skipjack is a historic boat,” said Capt. Robert Capable of speeds up to seven knots (approxi- from Daymor, Jovani, JSS Knits, Toula Knits, and More!
Laurence prior to the inaugural sailing. “The Minnie mately 8 miles per hour), the tour lasts between 90 60-75% off!
V. really belongs in a historic port like Alexandria.” minutes and two hours. During that time, Laurence Sportswear, related separates, cocktail dresses, evening pant suits,
day and evening suits, accessories, and more! Misook, Ming Wang,
After spending two years docked at National Har- and his crew regale passengers with tales of mari- Bring in coupon
Ribkoff, Pleat Pleat and More! Blouses at $10! for 250,000 points
bor, the Minnie V. will now call Alexandria home af- time life on the Potomac River and the history of the
75% - 80% - 90% OFF!
ter an agreement was reached between the Potomac Minnie V., which was listed on the National Register 1. Samsung 40" LCD TV, $549 Value.
Clearance Dresses, Clearance Suits & Beaded Dresses! Famous Makers! 2. Canon PowerShot Camera, $400.
Riverboat Company and city officials. of Historic Places in 1985. 3. Saeco Espresso Maker, $350.
$99 Selected dresses and Prom Dress Specials! 4. Canon Camcorder, $290.
“We were in talks with the Waterfront Commis- Sailings on the Minnie V., which was once featured Dress Boutique 56.. DGeaLrmoning hGiP FSo Soyds tPermoc, e$s1s6o0r,. $250.
sion and city staff for some time about docking the in the “Homicide: Life on the Streets” television se- 7. Keurig Coffee System, $160.
Minnie V. in Alexandria,” said company vice presi- ries, are now available on Saturdays and Sundays. Washington’s Premier After 5 Boutique 89.. FKriicgkid Saoiruen dTo Saysstteerm O, v$e1n1, 5$.150.
6707 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA 22101 10. Tiger Rice Cooker, $100.
dent Charlotte Hall. “When Willem [Polack] came From Memorial Day through Labor Day, sailings will [email protected] • 703-356-6333 Game Ends 6/02/2012
Store Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10am to 5:30pm. Sale Terms: All Sales Final.
up with the idea to build floats alongside the Cherry take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
No adjustments. We Accept: Visa, MC, Discover, AMEX.
Blossom, an agreement was reached to allow the “The Minnie V. is a wonderful piece of living his-
skipjack to dock there.” tory,” Hall said. “We are very excited to have her
Built in 1906, the 45.3' long sailing craft was de- here in Alexandria.”
signed to dredge for oysters, once a mainstay of busi- For more information about the Skipjack Minnie Directions: NORTH on the Beltway take Exit 46B onto Rt. 123N.-McLean. Go 3 miles- Turn right onto Old Dominion Dr. (Rt.
309). Go 1/2 mile thru two traffic lights. We are on the right next to Shell Gas.
ness along the Potomac River. A traditional Chesa- V., call 703-684-0580 or visit S1O/2U mTHile f raonmd Mtudrn.- rCigrhots so ontvoe rB tahlles AHmill eRrd. .L eGgoio .n9 tBhr imdgilee .-- TTuakrne ltehfet oVnEtRoY Ofirlsdt rDigohmt iEnxioitn 4 D3r-i4v4e t-o G VoA t h1r9u3 3 t otrwafafircd liLgahntgs le- yW -e G aore
on the right next to Shell Gas. We are less than 5 minutes from the Bridge.
peake Bay skipjack, the Minnie V. is a member of the www.potomacriverboatco.com.
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 ❖ 5
Politics
In 8th: First-timer Vs. Longtimer
Former Navy pilot hopes to sider the cost ramifications of eliminating the project,
which some people call “the alternative engine.” They
defeat Moran with charges
say that the military would have benefited from im-
proved engine performance, increased contractor re-
of conflict of interest.
sponsiveness and enhanced operational readiness
while sustaining an industrial base for future aircraft
By Michael Lee Pope programs.
Gazette Packet “In Econ 101, you learn that competition brings
F
down costs,” said Durrer. “In this case, having an
ormer Navy pilot Bruce Shuttleworth’s cam- alternative engine would have saved taxpayers more
paign to oust U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-8) in than $20 billion over the life of the F-35 program.”
the Democratic primary is fashioned as an
indictment, a campaign in which the issues ANOTHER ISSUE where Shuttleworth would have
are framed as an attack on the incumbent. The first- voted differently than Moran is the 2005 bankruptcy
time candidate hopes to knock off the 10-term con- reform. Shuttleworth criticized the law as making it
gressman by describing him an insider who uses his harder to declare bankruptcy, preventing people from
power to help campaign contributors and himself. getting a fresh start. He described the law as a “big
“I think that Congressman Moran sides with big win” for the credit card companies, repeating the
business too often,” said Shuttleworth. “And too of- charge that the congressman took a loan from credit
ten those big businesses have given him big cam- card company MDNA in advance of the vote.
paign contributions, and in fact he is number one in “Four days later, he cosponsored legislation to make
all of Congress in taking campaign contributions from it harder for citizens to declare bankruptcy, the very
his earmark recipients.” bankruptcy he avoided by taking that sweetheart
Supporters of Moran say these kinds of charges loan,” said Shuttleworth. “So there’s another example
are nothing new, and the same accusations are res- of having an extreme conflict of interest.”
urrected every election cycle. Moran supporters scoff at
They say candidates have to the idea that a 10.7 percent
Bruce Shuttleworth, 47
raise money to get elected, mortgage loan is a “sweet-
and that the congressman is heart deal,” dismissing the
A native of Amsterdam,
an experienced legislator idea that there was any rela-
N.Y., Shuttleworth grew up in
who votes his conscience. Severna Park, Md. He has a tionship between the loan and
Several said that if Moran bachelor of science in history the congressman’s support for
was known as a legislator from the Naval Academy and the reform.
a master of businesses admin-
who votes in favor of con-
istration from the Harvard
tributors he would have Business School. He was in SHUTTLEWORTH ALSO
raised a lot more than the Navy from 1983 to 1995, SAYS he would have voted
WWaaxxiinngg $600,000, the amount of stepping down as a lieuten- against the repeal of the Glass-
ant. He is currently a strategy management
money he’s raised and spent Steagall Act, which he says
OOrrggaanniicc FFaacciiaallss consultant and was formerly employed by the Bos-
so far in this election cycle. ton Consulting Group. helped contribute to the glo-
LLaasshh TTiinntt Ultimately, they say, voters bal financial crisis. Moran
have considered these charges and dismissed them. voted to repeal the act, and Shuttleworth says he
MMaassssaaggee
“Voters in the 8th District know Congressman would have voted to maintain a separation between
BBooddyy TTrreeaattmmeennttss Moran,” said Austin Durrer, a spokesman for the con- investment banking and commercial banking. Be-
gressman. “He fights for their issues they care about, cause that was at the heart of the financial crisis,
MMiiccrrooddeerrmmaabbrraassiioonn provides strong, progressive representation, and has Shuttleworth says, Moran bears some of the respon-
helped strengthen the region’s economy through his sibility for the downturn.
work as a senior member on the Appropriations Com- “Too many investment bankers are intent on get-
mittee as a leader who understands the importance ting those short-term bonus checks,” said
New Location of the federal role in our regional economy.” Shuttleworth. “They take wild risk knowing that the
downside is capped but the upside is not.”
Just in Time for Summer... ON THE ISSUES, Shuttleworth says he would have In a meeting with Connection Newspapers report-
voted differently than Moran on a number of key ers and editors, Moran pushed back on criticism of
Opening May, 24th votes. One is the F136 engine, developed by General his actions during the height of the financial crisis.
Electric and Rolls-Royce. Shuttleworth says that he He criticized a book titled “Throw Them All Out” by
Aida Spa is moving to a larger, would have voted against funding for the project, Peter Schweizer, which reports that the day after a
which the Pentagon opposed. Shuttleworth says the meeting between Secretary of the Treasury Hank
updated location to continue to serve her
project was unnecessary, adding that Moran took Paulson and New York Federal Reserve Chairman Tim
clientele in a comfortable spacious spa!
campaign contributions from General Electric and Geithner that Moran sold 92 stocks.
Rolls-Royce. “The book says two things, and then you naturally
“It puts him in a conflict of interest position,” said assume there’s a connection. It doesn’t actually say I
Shuttleworth. “I disagree with any congressman who was at the meeting. I wasn’t. I never attended the
will embrace that kind of conflict of interest, espe- meeting,” said Moran. “To suggest that you would
cially if they’re voting against the Pentagon’s wishes.” make a decision based on some meeting is a little
Allure
Supporters of the project say it’s important to con- absurd.”
Magazine’s
Top Rated Nominations Sought for 2012 CIVIC Awards
Waxer
2006, 2007,
2008, 2009
The Alexandria Park and Recre- service to Alexandria in meeting volunteers who have contributed
ation Commission is seeking nomi- recreation, park, or cultural needs. their time, talent, or resources in
nations for the 2012 CIVIC Nominations must be received by an exemplary fashion and who
Awards. The annual awards pro- Thursday, June 14. reside or are located in the City.
Aida Fekir, Esthetician since 1983
gram recognizes the unsung vol- Individuals can nominate an Al- A nomination package is avail-
1309 King Street, 2nd Floor • 703.535.7875 unteer efforts of Alexandrians who exandria resident, group, club, or- able online at www.alex
are involved in their communities ganization, or corporate neighbor. andriava.gov/recreation, or by
www.aidaspaoldtown.com
and who have provided a valuable Nominees for the award should be calling 703-746-4343.
6 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
On the Campaign Trail
Opposite Sides
A river runs through the candidate for mayor. On one side is
incumbent Democratic Mayor Bill Euille, who supports a plan
that would more than double the density of three sites slated for
redevelopment along the waterfront compared to what’s there
now. On the other side is former Vice Mayor Andrew
Macdonald, who blasts the proposal as a threat to the health of P
h
the Potomac River. o
t
“You can’t undo the damage of adding new impervious sur- o
b
faces to the shoreline,” said Macdonald, an independent candi- y
M
date for mayor who led opposition to the waterfront small-area
ic
plan. “You are better off creating more green space that can flood h
a
and has more natural qualities.” el
The mayor disagrees. He says the city’s consultants and staff Le
e
have thoroughly investigated the dynamics of increasing from P
o
the current level of 300,000 square feet to a proposed 800,000 p
e
square feet. The zoning change is still in limbo pending the result /G
a
of an appeal filed by adjacent property owners in Old Town. Ulti- z
e
mately, Euille says, the waterfront plan will greatly advance envi- tt
e
ronmental sustainability by creating an elevated walkway to miti- P
a
gate flood damage. c
k
e
“This plan is a huge step forward in terms of correcting and t
eliminating danger,” said Euille. “Staff and consultants studied All 14 candidates participate in a forum last week hosted by the Alexandria Demo-
this and concluded that imperious surface was the way to go.” cratic Committee.
Campaigning on the Edge Factions Emerge
Candidates love to be photographed on location. From stand-
ing before the George Washington Masonic Temple to posing in
Market Square, setting the right scene is an important element to Among Democrats
any campaign materials. Former Councilman Tim Lovain fa-
mously used the red railcar at the Mount Vernon Community
Center as a nod to his love of streetcars that also tugs at the heart
of the Del Ray crowd. Former Councilman Justin Wilson had a
similar idea, promoting his work on the city’s public transporta- From Page 1 Securing Alexandria’s Future
tion system by positioning himself in front of a DASH bus.
Wilson chose the King Street Metro station during a busy after- seats. The leading point of distinction between the ❖ John Taylor Chapman
noon. The wail of Metro trains could be heard in the distance as ❖ Sean Holihan
factions is the scale of density the city should allow. ❖ Tim Lovain
new hybrid DASH buses arrived and departed. The candidate tried From the waterfront to the West End, candidates in ❖ Del Pepper
posing in front of one, but it sped away too soon. So he waited the Democratic primary are drawing clear battle lines ❖ Paul Smedberg
for the next to arrive. When it came to a stop, Wilson and his ❖ Justin Wilson
that will give voters a stark choice on June 12.
photographer positioned themselves accordingly and snapped a
On one side of the spectrum is Securing Alexandrians for a Livable City
handful of frames. The pair finished just in time to avoid being —
Alexandria’s Future, a new political action commit-
literally — thrown under the bus by their own photo shoot. tee that endorsed a slate of six candidates this week. ❖ Victoria Menjivar
“I managed not to get run over,” said Wilson. “And we got the ❖ Sammie Moshenberg
Its leaders include former Councilman David Speck, ❖ Arthur Peabody
shot.”
outgoing Councilman Rob Krupicka, businessman ❖ Allison Silberberg
Murray Bonitt, Waterfront for All founder Gina Baum ❖ Boyd Walker
The Next Election
and former Police Chief David Baker. For the most
Democrats for a Better
part, their slate of candidates supports the scale of
Even as Democratic primary for City Council reaches its peak,
recent controversial development plans. On Tues- Alexandria
Democrats are already talking about the seat that will be opened
day, the committee formally endorsed John Taylor
by the announcement that Del. David Englin (D-45) won’t seek
Chapman, Sean Holihan, Tim Lovain, Del Pepper, ❖ John Taylor Chapman
reelection in 2013. Already, Councilman Rob Krupicka has Paul Smedberg and Justin Wilson. ❖ Tim Lovain
announced that he intends to run in the primary. And Arlington ❖ Sammie Moshenberg
School Board member James Lander has also thrown his hat into “These candidates have demonstrated a broad in- ❖ Arthur Peabody
terest in all facets of our community,” said former ❖ Boyd Walker
the ring. This week, former Alexandria School Board member Councilman Lonnie Rich, who is also affiliated with ❖ Justin Wilson
Eileen Cassisy Rivera acknowledged that she’s also consider-
the PAC. “More importantly, they have balanced Virginia New Majority
ing the race.
views on how to move our city forward. We also
“Yes,” she said after a recent City Council candidates forum.
believe they have the personal qualities necessary ❖ Victoria Menjivar
“I’m considering it.” for collegial action on the city’s business.” ❖ Sammie Moshenberg
❖ Arthur Peabody
Of Candidates and Authors At the other end of the spectrum is Alexandrians ❖ Justin Wilson
for a Livable City. Its members include people who
have been critical of recent developments, includ- Tenants and Workers director John Liss, the group
Democrat Allison Silberberg is not shy about plugging her
ing Katy Cannady, Lynn Bostain, Robert Pringle and also endorsed a slate of four candidates this week:
book, “Visionaries in Our Midst,” published by University Press of
Ginny Hines Parry. They endorsed a slate that has Menjivar, Moshenberg, Peabody and Wilson. In a
America in 2009. On the campaign trail, she frequently mentions
consistently opposed the proposals, including statement announcing the slate, Liss said the Vir-
the book and its Amazon ranking. But she’s willing to spread the
Victoria Menjivar, Sammie Moshenberg, Arthur ginia New Majority slate was chosen because the can-
wealth. When asked about the Del Ray trolley, Silberberg dropped
Peabody, Allison Silberberg and Boyd Walker. didates expressed a “clear intention” to foster “eco-
the name of another author.
“None is an incumbent or past member of the coun- nomic security” in Alexandria by defending workers
“The fact that we have to fight for the Del Ray trolley to come
cil,” the committee said in a written statement en- rights and ensuring Alexandra’s immigrant commu-
into the heart of Arlandria is straight out of Steinbeck.”
dorsing the slate. “That reflects our strong belief that nities are able to thrive.
— Michael Lee Pope Alexandria needs new leadership.” “These candidates are all strong campaigners for a
Adding their voice to the chorus of PACs the week more inclusive and participatory Alexandria,” said
is Virginia New Majority, the political wing of non-
profit Tenants and Workers United. Led by former See A Divided Slate, Page 27
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 ❖ 7
People
C
o
u
r
t
e
s
y
A
l
e
x
a
n
d
Sommelier Emily Wines From left: Elizabeth Moon, Darlene Duffett and Kate ria
mixes sparkling wine Perrin, vice president, Dress for Success Washington, Sh
cocktails. D.C. Board. er
if
f
’s
O
f
f
Supporting ic
e
From left: Adult Education Coordinator Krista Sofonia,
Dress for Walter Castro-Reyes, Sheriff Dana Lawhorne.
Success Alexandria Inmate Earns GED
A
The Morrison House lexandria Sheriff Dana congratulated Castro-Reyes on his
hosted a sparkling wine and Lawhorne and his staff accomplishment.
tasting adventure on March recognized the GED Sofonia also recognized volun-
28 to benefit Dress for Suc- graduation of an inmate at the teers with the Adult Education
cess. Sommelier Emily William G. Truesdale Adult Deten- program, including Morgan
Wines created sparking tion Center on May 3. Gerhart, a graduate student at
wine cocktails and new Sheriff’s Office staff and fellow Marymount University who in-
Chef Brian McPherson and inmates applauded Walter Castro- terned at the Sheriff’s Office this
Sous Chef Stephanie Geist Reyes who was dressed in a tradi- semester and will earn a master
created special bites for the tional cap and gown at his gradu- of arts degree in forensic psychol-
evening. ation ceremony. During the cer- ogy this month.
emony, Adult Education Coordina- Three other inmates also passed
Allison Priebe Brooks (left) and Victoria Cuesta of tor Krista Sofonia presented their GED exams this spring, in-
Kimpton Hotels. Castro-Reyes, 20, with a Certifi- cluding two who were released
cate of Achievement for passing prior to this ceremony. Since 2005,
his General Educational Develop- 82 inmates at the Alexandria de-
Jean Ann Bolling: Republican Party Is for Women ment examination. Sheriff tention center have successfully
Lawhorne gave brief remarks and completed their GEDs.
J
ean Ann Bolling, wife of Lt.
Gov. Bill Bolling, was the
keynote speaker at the
Commonwealth Republican
Women’s Club (CRWC) annual
membership meeting May 3 at the
Lloyd House on North Washington
Street in Old Town, Alexandria.
The reception recognizes those
who work successfully for the Re-
publican Party both locally and
state-wide.
In her speech entitled, “The
State of the State, 2012” Bolling
laid out current problems facing
the state and detailed good solu-
tions, including lowering unem-
ployment rates and the success of Tamika Barbour and Courtney Sherrill
Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling and wife Jean Ann with their two
women. She encouraged women Barbour and Sherrill Are Engaged
children.
to get involved in politics.
Bolling said that under her involved. “If you are not already a The Commonwealth Republican Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Greene of Alexandria are proud to announce
husband’s leadership with Gov. member of a political club, I en- Women’s Club is a member in good the engagement of their daughter, Tamika Barbour, to Courtney
Robert McDonnell, state unem- courage you to join the Common- standing with the National Federa- Sherrill, son of Ms. Lola Sims of Alexandria.
ployment has fallen to 5.6 percent wealth Republican Women’s Club tion of Republican Women. Ms. Barbour is an alumna of Old Dominion University and the
in the state. The national unem- today,” said Bolling. For additional information on University of Phoenix. Ms. Barbour currently teaches at Cora Kelly
ployment rate remains high at 8.2 In addition, special guest Rae the women’s club or campaign ac- STEM School in Alexandria and is a candidate for her doctoral
percent, a difference in Virginia Lynne Chornenky, president of the tivity in 2012 in Alexandria, visit degree in educational leadership. Mr. Sherrill is currently work-
that Bolling attributes to good eco- National Federation of Republican CRWC at ing in the security field in Washington, D.C. The couple plans to
nomic policies. She also said the Women, spoke briefly about her www.alexandriacrwc.org. or con- get married in the Caribbean island of Jamaica. The couple will
Republican Party is the party for goals as president of the federa- tact Gail Ledwig at make Northern Virginia their home.
women, and encouraged all to get tion in this important election year. [email protected].
8 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
P
h
o
t
o
s
b
y
J
e
a
n
n
e
T
h
e
is
m
a
n
n
/
G
a
z
e
t
t
e
P
a
c
k
e
t
ACVA President Stephanie Pace Brown and Research for
P Virginia Tourism Vice President Elizabeth McLaughlin
h
ot pose for photos following McLaughlin’s keynote ad-
o
s dress at the Marketing and Tourism Summit May 10 at
c
o the George Washington Masonic Memorial.
n
tr Tourism 101
ib
u
t
e
d
Keller Williams associates arrive at Jefferson-Houston ready to work on Thursday
morning: Susan Cambon, Tamara DeSouza, Mel Hanson, Nicole Hamilton, Carey ACVA hosts 3rd annual
Gooch, Nancy Tompkins and Nicole and Jordan Gooch.
Tourism and Marketing Summit.
4th Annual Red Day at Jefferson-Houston
T By Jeanne Theismann
Gazette Packet
he staff and associ-
I
ates of Keller Will-
n celebration of National
iams Realty in Old
Travel and Tourism Week, the
Town spent Thurs-
Alexandria Convention and
day, May 10, painting, garden-
Visitors Association presented the
ing and cleaning the exterior of
third annual Alexandria Tourism
Jefferson-Houston Elementary
Marketing Summit May 10 at the
School.
George Washington Masonic Me-
Red Day is a company-wide
morial.
— across the U.S. and Canada
“In a single year, visitors to Al-
— day of giving back to the lo-
exandria spend more than $650
cal community. This is Keller
million and generate $22.4 million
Williams’ way of focusing time,
in city tax revenue,” said Mayor
efforts and caring to give back
Tamara DeSouza, Kendra Whitaker, Jason Shine, Jor- Bill Euille. “That lowers our prop-
to the community. ACVA Director of Marketing
dan Gooch and Kris Bernard clean off graffiti on the erty tax rate by 7 cents.”
Anna Jones explains the
playground equipment. ACVA used the summit to unveil
features of the new
its new website, designed to be
VisitAlexandriaVA.com
more interactive and user-friendly,
website.
according to Director of Market-
ing Anna Jones. Zlotnick, associate fashion editor
“The website uses a new book- of Washingtonian magazine, Missy
ing engine that allows visitors to Frederick, reporter for The Wash-
purchase attraction tickets, includ- ington Business Journal, Paul
ing our Key to the City booklet, Raphel, FOX-5 TV segment pro-
online,” Jones said. “A Google ducer for “Holly Morris Live,”
mapping ‘What’s nearby?’ feature Maurisa Turner Potts, founder and
was also added.” CEO of marketing and public re-
The new VisitAlexandriaVA.com lations firm Spotted MP, and Karen
site integrates reviews from M. Gonzales, senior vice president
TripAdvisor and Yelp, with social of Destination Marketing Associa-
media feeds from Facebook and tion International.
Twitter available for each business “In the past five years, visitor
listing. spending in Alexandria has in-
Following a keynote address by creased nearly 17 percent,” said
Elizabeth McLaughlin, vice presi- Euille, who also announced City
dent of research for Virginia Tour- Council’s approval of a $100,000
ism, breakout sessions were held increase in ACVA’s advertising bud-
on topics including press relations, get. “This success has outpaced
social media and advertising strat- our neighbors by far, with the av-
Red Day volunteers: Tamara DeSouza, Suzanne Snyder, Nicole and Jordan Gooch, egies. erage rate of increase for Virginia
Kris Bernard, Kendra Whitaker, Jason Shine, Shane McCullar, Justin DeVinney, This year’s breakout session at just seven percent.
Bana Qasha, Jim Lyons, Carey Gooch, Bryan Taylor, Susan Cambon, Renee speakers included Brian Payea, McLaughlin wrapped up the
Gallagher, John Ragano, Mike Anastasia, Suzanne Runyon, Mel Hanson, Nancy head of industry relations for main presentations, saying, “At the
Tomkins, Ann Shack, Rick Wanzer and Brenda Stone. TripAdvisor, Ben Isenberg, presi- end of the day, what’s good for the
dent of Isenberg Group, Sarah tourist is good for the resident.”
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 ❖ 9
Opinion
Alexandria
Gazette Packet
Potomac River has made great strides,
Most Endangered?
www.AlexandriaGazette.com
has miles to go to save the Bay.
U @AlexGazette
An independent, locally owned weekly
nless your home is served by well newspaper delivered
to homes and businesses.
water, you are almost certainly Chesapeake Bay. Bacteria in the river after big Clean Water Act and issue a rule-making to
Published by
among the five million people in rainstorms, from dog waste in suburban areas, ensure that all waters get the protections Local Media Connection LLC
the Washington Metropolitan area agricultural runoff in more rural areas, has led Americans expect and deserve. 1606 King Street
who get their drinking water from the Potomac to the recommendation by some that people The Potomac River continues to serve as Alexandria, Virginia 22314
River. avoid contact with the river for two-to-three the scenic backdrop to much of what we do Free digital edition delivered to
your email box. Go to
This week, the organization American Rivers days. here. Let’s continue to push for improve-
connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe
named the Potomac River as the most endan- Slowing stormwater runoff, limiting the ments.
gered river in the nation. The Potomac River is amount of “nutrients” that are swept down the NEWS DEPARTMENT:
far cleaner than it was 40 years ago when the river into the Chesapeake Bay, and improve- — Mary Kimm, To discuss ideas and concerns,
Call: 703-778-9410
Clean Water Act was enacted. ments in methods of treating sewage [email protected] e-mail:
“Before the Clean Water Act was en- Editorials are all critical to the ongoing health [email protected]
acted in 1972, the Potomac was a cess- of our water supply. Father’s Day Photos Steven Mauren
Editor, 703-778-9415
pool of sewage and industrial pollu- Fish in the Potomac River also con- [email protected]
tion,” says American Rivers. “Thanks to the Clean tinue to show symptoms of exposure to endo- Every year at this time, the Gazette Packet
Michael Lee Pope
Water Act, the Potomac and rivers across the crine disruptors, with male bass carrying eggs puts out the call for photographs of fathers and Reporter, 703-615-0960
country are cleaner and safer for drinking, boat- and other signs. Scientists suspect variety of their children, grandfathers and their children [email protected]
@MichaelLeePope
ing, and fishing. But … a University of Mary- pharmaceuticals and chemicals are causing and grand children.
Jeanne Theismann
land report card has given the river a ‘D’ grade these abnormalities, and it is not known Father’s Day is Sunday, June 17, 2012 and 703-778-9436
for water quality for the past two years.” whether current water purification systems are once again the Gazette Packet will publish a [email protected]
@TheismannMedia
Now it’s safe for high school crew teams to removing those pollutants fully from the drink- gallery of Father’s Day photos.
take to the river by the dozens. Kayakers and ing water. Send in photos as soon as possible, includ- Steve Hibbard
Associate Editor, 703-778-9412
paddle-boarders join them in intimate contact American Rivers called on Congress to kill ing names of everyone in the picture, the date [email protected]
with the water. Motorboats, marinas and fisher- any legislation that weakens the Clean Water the picture was taken, the ages of the children Jon Roetman
men all show the confidence we now have in Act or prevents the Environmental Protection and sentence or two about what is happening Sports Editor, 703-224-3015
[email protected]
the integrity of the Potomac River. Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and where the photograph was taken. Be sure @jonroetman
Still, after a rain, stormwater washes agricul- from restoring protections for small streams to include your town name and neighborhood.
Louise Krafft
tural waste, suburban and urban runoff carry- and wetlands under the Act. American Rivers Photos are due by June 8. Photographer
[email protected]
ing loads of pollution into our area’s small also called on the Obama Administration to You can submit your photos to
streams, into the Potomac River and on into the finalize guidance clarifying the scope of the [email protected].
ADVERTISING:
For advertising information
Letters to the Editor
e-mail:
[email protected]
Spare No Beauregard plan will eliminate
Julie Ferrill
much low-income housing. The Display Advertising, 703-778-9446
Incumbent Arlandria plan also will eliminate [email protected]
much low-income housing. And so Jane Hughes
To the Editor: Display Advertising, 703-778-9448
on. We are well on the way to be-
[email protected]
The upcoming City Council elec-
coming just another gentrified
tion presents both quandary and Tara Lloyd
suburb .… Display Advertising, 703-778-9447
opportunity to shape Alexandria’s It is hard to avoid the conclu- [email protected]
future. The quandary is how to
sion that the Council’s actions re- Andrea Smith
choose among the many candi- Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411
flect almost a single-minded focus
[email protected]
dates, fine people who are offer-
on increasing property tax rev-
ing their services to the City. The Debbie Funk
enue, with much less attention to National Sales
opportunity is to find those who the community’s other needs. This 703-778-9444
will reflect our best values for the [email protected]
is judging by the results, not by the
future development of Alexandria.
intentions.
Publisher
What values do I find impor- So, this liberal who believes in Jerry Vernon
tant? Aesthetics, to preserve the [email protected]
conservation of the best of our
charm which brings people to the community, has come to a harsh Editor & Publisher
City. Diversity, which mixes people Mary Kimm
conclusion: Alexandria’s voters 703-778-9433
from all walks, and all income lev- [email protected]
have the opportunity to send a
@MaryKimm
els, in a common community. En-
message to the Council by voting
vironmental sensitivity, which fos- Editor in Chief
ket ters green spaces and parks. Re- fcourm abne netn tsirheolyu lnde wbe sslaptaer. eNdo. Wine- SAtervte/nD eMsaiugrne:n
Pac sponsiveness to input, respecting need to start over. LaurenceJ Foohonn Sg,m Jiothhn Heinly,
e those with whom we differ. Devel- Production Manager:
t Jean Card
et opment with impact mitigation, so Allan Abramson Geovani Flores
z
a the City does not have to pay the
G Monticello Park Editor Emeritus:
t/ bill for businesses. Alexandria Mary Anne Weber
ff On these scores, regrettably,
a
Kr both the current and recent coun- Support Mental CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427
se cils have not had high grades. CirculaAtnino nO lMivearnager:
oui Potomac Yards (anyone consider Health Services [email protected]
Ly the construction pretty or charm-
o b ing?) will clog Highway 1, and the To the Editor: A Connection Newspaper
ot once-promised developer-financed May is Mental Health Month, The Alexandria Gazette Packet is
h distributed weekly to selected homes in the
P Metro stop is not there. The BRAC established in 1949 to spread the City of Alexandria.
Any owners or occupants of premises that
move to Seminary Road lacked word about the importance of
Snapshot 10:10 a.m., May 12: Cary Blair Terne do not wish to receive the paper can notify
consideration for the traffic im- mental health and to combat the the publisher by telephone at 703-917-
sets out another flat of fresh straw- 6480 or by email to
pact. The Waterfront planning pro- stigma associated with mental ill- [email protected],
berries from Three Ways Farm in Northern Neck on
and the distributor will be notified to
Saturday morning at the Del Ray Farmer’s Market. cess divided the community, and ness. discontinue service.
treated some with disrespect. The See Letters, Page 11
10 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ May 17-23, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com