Alexandria Gazette Packet

35 Pages·2011·9.33 MB·English

by  Ads Production 7

Alexandria
Gazette Packet
Page 27
25 Cents
Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper July 21, 2011
City Considers
Eminent Domain
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ft By Michael Lee Pope Banks said that the City Council
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e in executive session, and that the
s
ui or more than three de- sense of council was that the city
o
L cades, the City of Alex- should change its policy on emi-
by andria and the Old Do nent domain. Mayor Bill Euille
s
o minion Boat Club have declined to comment on the
t
o been locked in a struggle over a change in policy, directing all ques-
h
P series of properties near the foot tions to the city attorney. As a re-
The Alexandria Citizens of King Street. Last week, that sult of the new policy, the city
Band will perform one John Pickeral se- struggle took a dramatic turn made an offer of $150,000 for
more Friday evening con- cures the sheet when City Attorney James Banks several properties — a move that
cert in Market Square on music to his stand acknowledged that the city gov- was interpreted by Boat Club
July 29 at 7:30 p.m. as a breeze blows ernment is now considering using members as the first step in a po-
through the square. eminent domain to take some of tential taking action.
In Market Square Pickeral is the that property — marking a change “I think it’s reasonable to assume
oldest member of in direction. that they would eventually file a
The 99-year old Alexandria the band at age 78. “Eminent domain is only going taking action against the club,”
Citizens Band performed a to be something of a last resort,” said Bert Ely, a member of the club
concert in Market Square on said Banks. “If all settlement dis- who stressed that he was not
Friday, July 15. The band is the cussions with the Boat Club break speaking on behalf of the organi
oldest performing arts organization in the down, only then would we con-
City of Alexandria. Founded in 1912, the sider eminent domain.” See Domain, Page 16
group made its first public appearance in
the 1914 George Washington Birthday ‘Increasing Polarization’
Parade. For more information on the band
and the upcoming concert schedule visit
www.alexandriacitizensband.org.
Neighbors disagree about quality
of life in North Old Town.
By Michael Lee Pope ciations are making in an increas-
Gazette Packet ingly tense environment of claim
R and counter-claim. Responding to
esidents of subsidized a series of allegations made by
housing and public hous- residents of Chatham Square and
ing in North Old Town Gadsby’s Court last month, com-
are furious at accusations that munity organizer Lenny Harris ar-
their neighborhood has spiraled ranged a meeting at Charles Hous
out of control, a claim that a grow-
ing number of homeowners asso- See Polarization, Page 17
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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 ❖ 1
2 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
Week in Alexandria
The Other Ceiling
As Congress was grappling with “cut, cap and balance” this
week, Alexandria’s congressional delegation was focused on a
different negotiation. Call it cut, cap and dalliance.
It’s been months since the House of Representatives passed leg-
islation introduced by U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-8) that would
limit parking spaces at the Washington Headquarters Service, a Fouad
massive new Department of Defense installation on the West End Qreitem and
that’s expected to create massive gridlock. But the Senate isn’t Basim
expected to take action until after the August recess. Mansour pose
“We’re hopeful,” said Anne Hughes, spokeswoman for Moran. with trainer
“That’s why we’re still pushing.” Roger Mack.
Time is running out. The Pentagon recently released a timeline
for moving the 6,400 employees into the building at Mark Center
that has 4,900 people working in the building by the end of the
year. The remaining 1,400 employees will start moving in Janu-
ary. Last week, Moran joined U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-
11), Sen. Jim Webb (D) and Sen. Mark Warner (D) in a letter
to Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta urging him to reconsider.
“We are particularly distressed that the DOD intends to use up
to 3,800 parking spaces at the Mark Center,” the lawmakers wrote
in the letter to the secretary. “There is no rule, regulation or stat-
ute preventing the department from self-imposing a parking limi-
A Heavyweight Challenge
tation to 1,000 until there is sufficient transportation infrastruc-
ture.”
Feds Charge Alexandrians
Two Alexandria residents are at the center of a case that fed- Local CEOs compete to money. Qreitem won, so the Police Unity Tour re-
eral prosecutors say is a sign that West Africa is becoming a ma-
ceived $10,000. Mansour lost, but he started a pledge
jor hub for international drug trafficking. raise money for charity.
for pounds program in which donors gave money to
Last week, federal prosecutors arrested several people they say
the Susan G. Komen Foundation for every pound he
were responsible for a scheme using couriers to smuggle heroin
lost. He raised between $5,000-$6,000.
from Ghana to the United States. Among the individuals detained
“I really enjoyed being a part of it even though I
are 29-year-old Matilda Antwi of Alexandria and 26-year-old
By Maya Horowitz did not win. I feel great because I did lose weight.
Yvonne Ansah Owusu. Prosecutors say Antwi attempted to
Gazette Packet I’m happy with that … Fouad won it so God bless
smuggle 1.2 kilograms of heroin last year through Dulles Inter- P
him,” said Mansour.
national Airport, and they arrested Owusu after Customs and
aisano’s Pizza CEO Fouad Qreitem and “At the end of the day, everybody is a winner. We
Border Protection Officers allegedly discovered 3.3 kilograms of
Michael & Son CEO Basim Mansour made are working for great causes … I’m just really grate-
heroin hidden in the lining of her luggage.
a $10,000 wager for charity on who could ful,” said Qreitem.
“International drug-trafficking organizations pose a sustained,
lose the most weight. Qreitem’s charity
serious threat to the safety and security as our communities and
was the Police Unity Tour; Mansour’s charity was the BOTH COMPANIES are known for their charity
West Africa has grown as a major transshipment point for these
Susan G. Komen Foundation. work. Paisano’s Pizza was just awarded the “Fairfax
organizations,” said United States Attorney Neil MacBride in a
The winner was determined not by pounds lost, Community Champions Award.” It has consistently
written statement.
but by most body fat percentage dropped. supported the Police Unity Tour, raised 4,500 pounds
Mansour lost almost 22 pounds, which was 8.3 of donated food for the needy and donated money
DUI Crackdown
percent of his body weight. Qreitem to a local girl with neuroblastoma.
won the competition, also losing 22 Michael & Son, headquartered in Al-
Two drivers were arrested for drunk driving and 13 traffic tick-
pounds, which was 11 percent of his “At the end of exandria, has been nominated for a
ets were issued last weekend as part of a crackdown instigated
body weight. Washington Business Journal Philan-
by the Alexandria Police Department. Police conducted what they the day,
Both men worked with celebrity thropy Award for its“Michael & Son
call a “sobriety checkpoint” on Duke Street near the Landmark
trainer Roger Mack, a 2004 Olympic Cares charity program and various
Mall. Vehicles were stopped and drivers were checked for drugs everybody is a
Trials Qualifier, known for his work charitable donations, including Dreams
and alcohol.
In a written statement, Police Chief Earl Cook reminded driv- with 2008 local “Biggest Loser” con- winner. We are for Kids and the Susan G. Komen foun-
testants Adam and Stacy Capers. dation.
ers that the maximum penalty in Virginia for the first conviction
The competition itself was Mack’s working for Mansour recently received the
of driving under the influence is 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine
idea. “It came to me in my sleep. I woke Jefferson Award for Public Service. “We
and a 12-month suspension of driving privileges.
up in the middle of the night. It just great causes.” are a company that believes in giving
Mark Your Calendar popped in my mind,” said Mack. back and caring,” he said. “We don’t
The competition began on April 22 — Fouad Qreitem, just focus on the profit we focus on the
Next week is the inaugural meeting of the Waterfront Plan Work and was set to last 60 days. However, Paisano’s Pizza CEO giving and the heart of life.”
Group, the advisory panel created earlier this month after City it was extended due to discrepancies Paisano’s Pizza has been in business
Council members failed to come to a resolution on a controver- in their starting weights and ended up being com- almost 15 years with locations in
sial plan to reshape the waterfront. The first meeting, which is pleted on July 13. Reston, Chantilly, Fair Lakes, Fairfax City, Herndon,
open to the public, will be held on July 27 in the council work- Weekly weigh-ins were documented in playful vid- Tyson’s Corner and Falls Church. It serves pizza, subs
room at City Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. eos in which the men took jabs at each other and and Italian entrees. “If we wouldn’t serve it to our
Don’t expect fireworks. The first meeting will be limited to es- made shout-outs to their respective charities. kids, we wouldn’t serve it to yours,” said Qreitem.
tablishing a work schedule, setting a regular meeting place and Both men are known to be very competitive. “It’s Michael and Son Services has more than 30 years
time as well as setting the ground rules for proceedings. like putting gasoline and fire together. There’s going experience doing electrical, plumbing, heating, A/
to be an explosion,” said Mansour about his rela- C, construction and handyman services. It serves
— Michael Lee Pope tionship with Qreitem. Maryland, Virginia and Washington D.C. Their motto
In the end, both men’s charities were able to make is “If you can’t, we can!”
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 ❖ 3
News
Business Matters
BRAC Boom
For months, the acronym BRAC has been thrown around with
scorn and derision. Yet recommendation 133 of the Base Realign-
ment and Closure Commission could benefit the city’s bottom
line. According to a recently released cost-benefit analysis con-
duced by city officials, relocating 6,400 Department of Defense
employees to Alexandria’s West End will boost retail spending,
increase demand for hotel and office space as well as set the stage
for potential redevelopment. That could mean millions in new
tax revenue for the city.
“The conclusion reached is that the overall impact of BRAC-
133 will be positive over the long-term, provided that the needed
Commonwealth of Virginia and DoD paid road and transit im-
provements as proposed are made,” city officials wrote in the
economic analysis. “This conclusion is contingent upon the
planned transportation improvements being implemented, and
assumes that any future development approvals (if any) in the
Beauregard corridor are accompanied by sufficient transporta-
tion improvements.”
Adding 6,400 jobs to the city will represent a 6-percent increase Michael Troy, left, arrived
in the overall city employment, and officials expect a “contractor Photos by Jeanne Theismann/Gazette Packet from England to surprise
tail” to follow the Washington Headquarters Service into the West Pat Troy and Michael Collins, Irish Ambassador to the his older brother Pat for
End. The analysis also predicts indirect impacts of increased spend- U.S., enjoy a laugh during the good-natured roast of Troy. the birthday celebration.
ing on local goods and services as well as housing. And now that
the Department of Defense will have a major installation in the
‘Alexandria’s Leprechaun’
city, maybe the Pentagon would be willing to kick in to help pay
for a new fire station in the Beauregard corridor.
“There will be increased spending on restaurants and retail by
these employees,” city officials wrote. “But that amount of in-
creased spending is not likely to be substantial as government Pat Troy roasted this city and I wish him many more
employees tend to spend less disposable income at lunch time healthy years to come.”
near their place of employment than do non-governmental em- on 70th birthday. Dozens of local dignitaries and
ployees.” friends were on hand to recount
their own encounters with Troy
W
Clearing the Air
over the years, including Irish Am-
hat started out as bassador Michael Collins. Former
Environmental activists and concerned residents have wanted
a toast by Vice secret service agents to President
to shut down the coal-fired Potomac River Generating Station for
Mayor Kerry Ronald Reagan, Rick Ahearn and
years, although efforts have been met with resistance and ulti-
Donley quickly Jim Hooley, added their own now-
mately a legal settlement requiring the plant to reduce emissions.
turned into a good-natured roast humorous tales of Reagan’s visit
Now, some are hoping a new report from Boston-based Analysis
of Pat Troy as the local restaura- to Ireland’s Own Restaurant on
Group could lead to the plant shutting its doors for good.
teur and civic leader celebrated his Saint Patrick’s Day 1988.
According to the report, the GenOn-owned plant could be shut-
70th birthday July 12 at Ireland’s “I can’t believe my brother
tered without harming the power supply in the Washington, D.C.,
Own Restaurant in Old Town. Michael is even here,” said Troy
region after transmission and substation upgrades are completed
“Pat Troy is Alexandria’s own of his younger sibling who arrived
next year. The Analysis Group report concludes that the retire-
leprechaun,” said Councilwoman unannounced from England. “This
ment of the plant would also result in an immediate benefit to
Del Pepper as hundreds of well- has really been an unforgettable
the local environment because electricity from cleaner generat-
wishers gathered to congratulate evening.”
ing plants would replace output from the Alexandria plant. the guest of honor. “He truly loves — Jeanne Theismann
“As stricter pollution regulations prompt older coal-fired power
plants like the Potomac plant to consider retirement, we want to
Former assistant fire chief
make sure that electricity continues to be reliable for D.C. resi-
Michael Conner added his
dents and the federal government,” said Gregory Staple, chief
own good-natured roast of
executive officer of American Skies Foundation in a written state-
Pat Troy.
ment. “We also wanted to assess the net public health and envi-
ronmental benefits from closing the PRGS because we’d like to
ensure that any plant retirements benefit the local community.”
Bull Run Bump
This weekend, thousands of history tourists will descend upon
Northern Virginia to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the
Battle of Manassas, also known as the Battle of Bull Run. Nobody
is celebrating the Civil War, exactly, but the Alexandria Conven-
tion and Visitors Association is looking forward to a busy week-
end.
“We are not able to predict a specific impact,” said Claire
Mouledoux, communications manager with the ACVA. “But we
are expecting people visiting the metropolitan area to be drawn
to Alexandria’s unique charm and perhaps even stay for the
evening.”
Visitors can take advantage of free cell-phone walking tours as
well as a $14 “Key to the City” that allows access to Civil War
sites and attractions.
Pat Troy, center, is flanked by Rick Ahearn and Jim
Hooley, former secret service agents, as they recount St.
— Michael Lee Pope
Patrick’s Day 1988, when President Ronald Reagan vis- Pat Troy with his wife
ited Troy’s restaurant in Old Town. Bernadette.
4 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 ❖ 5
People
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Mark Pretzat, Mary Cook, Tory Cowles and Harry Cooper stand in front
Tory Cowles stands in front of one of her paintings. of one of Tory Cowles’ paintings.
‘Living Large’ Juror’s Remarks
Harry Cooper, head of modern and con-
temporary art at the National Gallery of Art,
spoke about Tory Cowles’ paintings:
“It’s an honor to be the only juror for this
Tory Cowles named Torpedo
year’s competition. And it’s always great to
see the works in a powerpoint and then come
Factory Artist of the Year.
see them in person and realize that, no, I
didn’t make a mistake. They look even bet-
ter in person. …
So I was just asked, you know, what at-
By Maya Horowitz Phtracted me to this work. …
o “I love painting and I’ve looked at a lot of
Gazette Packet t
T opaintings and I did my dissertation on
Juror Harry byMondrian, who, you might think is just the
ory Cowles was named Torpedo Cooper in Jtotal opposite of this kind of work. But, in
a
Factory Artist of the Year. She front of the nefact, in the history of modern painting, there
received her award on Thursday, show title. Care so many things that are constant among
agreat paintings and that is a sense of how to
July 14 at the opening of her rlhandle the paint, a deep sense of structure
solo show, “Living LARGE!” at the Target strthat you have in this work.
o “I think it’s pretty rare to find a painter
Gallery in Alexandria. m
who is very sophisticated and knows about
“I am just thrilled and honored,” said
the history of modern art, has that in her
“It’s rare to find a painter who is very sophisticated —
Cowles. brush and yet is not self-conscious, and is not
The award is sponsored by the Friends of too stylish, and is not second-guessing,
who knows about the history of modern art — but is not thinking about what would look good at ev-
the Torpedo Factory. Mark Pretzat, president
ery minute, and still able to take risks and be
of the Friends, said, “We got a number of too self-conscious. These are beautiful paintings with a spontaneous. I know that’s important to
excellent entries. [Cowles] has been a de- [Tory Cowles]. And that really comes out in
light to work with. Every year we seem to lot of expression, a lot of lyricism … There’s a lot to see the work, so there’s a lot to see in every one
of these paintings.
have a smashing exhibit.”
“Yes, they’re beautiful. They’re attractive.
A sole juror decides the artist of the year. in every one of these paintings.” There’s a sort of eye candy element.
This year’s juror was Harry Cooper, curator “But you have to get past that because
and head of modern and contemporary art — Harry Cooper, National Gallery of Art, there is really exciting handling of paint, use
of different materials and techniques and
at the National Gallery of Art. juror for the Torpedo Factory Artist of the Year
just a lot of joy in the act of painting.”
“I love painting. It’s rare to find a painter
who is very sophisticated — who knows just put paint on the canvas and start re-
about the history of modern art — but is Tory Cowles: In Her Own Words sponding to it.” She works on five or six
not too self-conscious. These are beautiful paintings at a time.
paintings with a lot of expression, a lot of “About my work … Three artists have been a the chute. I think it’s important to be spontane- “Strong colors move me,” she said. “The
big influence: Jean Michel Basquiat, Robert ous for our mental health. In some cultures
lyricism. … There’s a lot to see in every one kind of artwork I like is spontaneous and
Rauschenberg, and a Japanese artist named singing and dancing is part of their daily work
of these paintings.” Kimura. Shared characteristics are strong colors and spiritual lives. When it’s done without harm- strong and from the heart. Like Janis Joplin
Wine and cheese was served at the re- and loose, spontaneous paintings. Strong colors ing someone, it not only feels good, it allows us music. It’s emotionally powerful and hon-
ception. Speeches were given by Pretzat, move me — they make me happy and they give to fully express ourselves, show what’s inside est.”
me energy. The looseness and spontaneity is, I without holding back, and still be accepted, even
Cooper, Mayor Bill Euille and Cowles. She cites Jean Michel Basquiat, Robert
think, even more important. When one is spon- appreciated.
Cowles’ work for this show consisted of taneous, one works without thought, with That has got to be good for us. When I look Rauschenberg and Kimura as her three big-
large, colorful acrylic paintings. stream of consciousness, from the heart. What’s at the work of these three artists they inspire me gest artistic influences. “They give me per-
Gallery director Mary Cook said, “I love inside just comes out. Spontaneity can be dan- to be more spontaneous. They give me permis- mission, encourage me to be more wholly
gerous in some situations — you can say sion, encourage me to be more wholly myself not
the energy and the brightness of the colors. myself not only in my art work but in my
something you regret, hurt or offend people, lose only in my art work but in my life. They make
I love the way she uses line.” your job … But spontaneity also feels good. You me want to paint and dance and sing. It’s such life. They make me want to paint and dance
Carol Jason, friend of Tory Cowles, said, may lose your job, but at least you got to say an ambitious goal, but I hope that my work may and and sing. It’s such an ambitious goal,
“It’s very expansive and exciting. The col- what you thought, grab a beer and slide down also do that for other people.” but I hope that my work may also do that
ors really dance. She is a very open, expan- for other people.”
sive, generous person and it shows in her Cowles’ work is on display in the Target
art.” Md. In her 20s and 30s she worked on por- She found that she could do the things that Gallery and Studio 7 in the Torpedo Fac-
traits and landscapes. She also worked in interested her in 3D in 2D. tory. Her website is www.ToryCowles.com.
COWLES WAS BORN in Shelburne, Vt. 3D, doing interior decorating, carpentry and Cowles considers herself an abstract ex- Cowles, a resident of Potomac, Md., has
She has done art all of her life. She stud- architecture among other things. In her 40s, pressionist. “I don’t have any preconceived worked in a studio in the Torpedo Factory
ied under Helen Corning at Glen Echo Park, she took an abstract class and fell in love. ideas about how a painting will turn out. I for years.
6 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
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April Hicks, program manager at Alfred Street Baptist
Church; Gloria Locke, camp director of Kool Akademy’s
youth division of the Allen Etiquette Institute, and Fannie Chess master Kirk Johnson delivers the keynote address on chess and the positive
Allen director of the Allen Etiquette Institute. benefits of critical thinking, writing skills and organization.
Kool Akademy Graduates Inaugural Class
T
he first class attending
Kool Akademy, a sum-
mer leadership camp
sponsored and
partnered by the Allen Etiquette
Institute and Central Michigan
University, received certificates of
completion on Friday, July 15. The
Allen Etiquette Institute, based in
Alexandria, created a technology-
driven youth leadership program
focusing on social development,
communication and cultural expe-
Kool Akademy camp direc-
riences.
At the conclusion of the graduation ceremony, tor Fannie Allen gives
The launch of Kool Akademy
the graduates presented red roses to their Diamond Bostick a hug
took place July 11-15 at Central
families for providing support. Kamille and Community activist Geri Baldwin and after presenting her with a
Michigan University in Alexandria
Karmen Pullara present roses to their mom. Gwen Lewis. certificate of completion.
with 13 youth as the first local par-
ticipants. During the week, the stu-
dents worked in teams on various with new products for the future eyeglasses that transmit television that doubles as a radio receiver. duction to the game of chess by
projects brainstorming to come up such as instant food in a spray can, signals, techno-books, and a pen The class also received an intro- Kirk Johnson.
At Children’s Arts Festival
T
he Alexandria The instrument pet-
Symphony’s annual ting zoo allows chil-
Children’s Arts Festi- dren of all ages to try
val on June 12 attracted fami- instruments of the
lies to take part in a range of orchestra and band.
activities such as face painting,
yoga, arts and crafts, and the
instrument petting zoo. Saxo-
phonist Vaughn Ambrose led Yoga for Kids in-
two jazz-inspired concerts to go structor Amanda
along with the festival’s theme, Hungerford leads
“Razz-Ma-Jazz: Music, Art, and participants in a
Literature of the Harlem Re- yoga animal activity.
naissance.” The ASO received
support for the partnership of
Ginny Rawls of Alex-
several organizations for this P
andria Public Library h
event, including SCAN (Stop o
Child Abuse Now of Northern entertains at one of to
s
Virginia), Del Ray Artisans, the reading centers as C
Music Together, Potters Violins, part of the festival. ou
r
t
and Hooray for Books. Spon- e
s
y
sors include Dominion Founda- exandria), Alexandria Commission o
tion, Wells Fargo, SOLA (Sym- for the Arts and the Virginia Com- f A
phony Orchestra League of Al- mission for the Arts. SO
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 ❖ 7
Politics
Campaign for Cash
Democrats post strong fundraising numbers
as August primary approaches.
By Michael Lee Pope
EBBIN’S TOP DONORS KRUPICKA’S TOP DONORS GARVEY’S TOP DONORS
Gazette Packet
Lori Friedman...........................................$19,889 Robert Henry Duggar III.............................$7,408 Ticer for Senate.........................................$20,000
W
Alexandria Alexandria Alexandria
ith the race to replace retiring Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund.......................$8,500 Stones Phones.............................................$5,300 Louis Brown Jr............................................$7,144
Washington, D.C. Cathedral City, Calif. Alexandria
state Sen. Patsy Ticer (D-30)
Mid-Atlantic Community Fund...................$5,000 Hubert Hoffman III.....................................$5,000 Robert Hemphill Jr.....................................$6,324
headed into the final few weeks Washington, D.C. Alexandria Arlington
before the August Democratic primary, sec- Gus Dimillo.................................................$3,500 Rob Krupicka...............................................$5,000 Jean Quay...................................................$3,000
Alexandria Alexandria Madison, Wisc.
ond-quarter campaign finance documents
Firefighters, Local 2068..............................$3,000 Just a Honky Tonk, LLC..............................$4,000 Jenny Becherer...........................................$2,810
show the three candidates have posted Alexandria Alexandria Arlington
strong numbers. That’s an indication that
the race is tightening up as the crucial pri- with the primary,” said Kyle Kondik, are scrambling to get their message
mary approaches. Political analysts say the political analyst with the University out at a time when many people are
stakes are especially high with the primary of Virgina’s Center for Politics. “And vacationing or are otherwise disen-
because the winner is likely to prevail over it’s clear from the fundraising totals gaged.
the Republican candidate in a district that that this race is drawing a lot of ac- That means investing tens of thou-
leans heavily Democratic. tion.” sands of dollars in direct mail to grab
“This is a district that the Democrat can Arlington School Board Chair- attention.
easily win, so the real action in this race is woman Libby Garvey posted the “If this race is about who raises the
strongest showing for the second most money, we’d be ahead. But it’s
quarter, raising $114,000. City Coun- Del. Adam Alexandria Arlington not about raising money,” said Carter
Republican Trails
cilman Rob Krupicka raised $110,000, Ebbin (D-49) City Council- School Board Batey, Krupicka’s campaign manager.
In Fundraising and Del. Adam Ebbin (D-49) raised man Rob Chairwoman “The goal is to raise enough money
$103,000. Garvey’s campaign team was Krupicka Libby Garvey to accomplish what you want to do
Each of the three quick to declare victory, issuing a press re- with your budget, and we’re comfort-
Democrats running to lease Saturday afternoon announcing that shows that the three Democratic candidates able we’ve done that.”
replace retiring state Sen. the Arlington School Board chairwoman for the primary to replace Ticer are among
Patsy Ticer (D-30) have
had out-raised her competitors. the top-tier candidates in fundraising over- ALTHOUGH the fundraising totals for the
raised more than $100,000
in their pursuit for the “The fact that Libby Garvey has been able all this cycle. Krupicka has raised the most second quarter were similar, the candidates
open seat in the Virginia to out-raise her opponents without having money overall, posting $201,000. Ebbin is are headed into the final stretch with vastly
state Senate. Yet the lone
to accept the kind of lobbyist money that second place overall with $186,000, and different amounts of cash on hand. Garvey
Republican in the race,
normally fuels our elections is a great thing Garvey trails with $164,000. has $88,000 and Ebbin has $70,000.
Tim McGhee, has been
able to raise only a for Virginia,” said Garvey campaign man- “There’s more money in Northern Vir- Krupicka trails behind with $45,000 cash
fraction of that. ager Kirk McPike in a written statement. ginia, so you would expect the candidates on hand for the final few weeks of the cam-
Campaign-finance Tim McGhee
“Libby offers a fresh perspective on how to there to be raising more money,” said paign.
documents show McGhee
has raised $3,000. His largest contributor is the get things done in Richmond, and this re- Kondik. “In my opinion money can be over- “I find it a little surprising that Rob would
Arlington Republican Women’s Club, with $150. port shows that people are responding to rated in politics because the person who spend himself down so dramatically,” said
McGhee said he’s not concerned about the that.” raises the most amount of money doesn’t Kirk McPike, Ebbin’s campaign manager.
disparity.
necessarily win.” “He’s headed into the final stretch with few
“I am very optimistic about this campaign,
both its current status and its outlook,” said THE DEMOCRATIC primary to replace One thing is clear — candidates are ea- resources.”
McGhee in an email. “This campaign has already Ticer is one of the hottest races in Virginia ger to get their message out in what’s ex- The final few weeks of a campaign are
been able to get its message out even before this election cycle, and all three Democratic pected to be a low-turnout primary. Because traditionally a time when the big checks are
funding reached its current levels, and the
candidates have posted some of the stron- the once-in-a-decade redistricting process, written.
outlook is only improving.”
gest numbers statewide. An analysis con- the normal June primary has been pushed “Now’s the time to be spending,” ex-
— Michael Lee Pope ducted by the Virginia Public Access Project back to August. That means that candidates plained Kondik.
Citizens Learn, Recommend Fixes to Federal Deficit
Amid negotiations over the national
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debt, residents join in discussion. o
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o
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By Ross Sylvestri organization that advocates for o
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Gazette Packet sustainable government spending S
A and reducing the federal deficit. yl
v
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s President Barack Obama Thiebert explained the process of st
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and members of Congress how the budget is planned and ap- /i
struggle to come to an propriated. He said that manda- G
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agreement to raise the debt ceil- tory spending — spending that is ze
t
ing, which is the amount of money automatically appropriated every t
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that the federal government can year and that, “doesn’t have to go P
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borrow, the constituents of U.S. through the annual appropriations k
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Rep. Jim Moran’s (D-8) district process” — currently makes up 63 t
met July 11 at the National Rural percent of the federal budget. This Constituents of U.S. Rep. Jim Moran listen to him speak
Electric Cooperative Association includes interest payments on the U.S. Rep. Jim Moran speaks at the meeting.
building in Arlington to learn more federal debt and entitlement pro- at the July 11 event hosted
about the issue. grams such as Medicare, Medicaid, by the Concord Coalition. budget.” ing and tax proposals put together
The meeting began with a pre- and Social Security. Overtime, After Thiebert’s presentation, by the Concord Coalition and had
sentation by Jeff Thiebert, the na- these programs, along with inter- consume more and more of the attendees gathered in small groups to vote on each proposal. Some of
tional grassroots director of the est on the debt, will continue to federal budget. “In 10 years, it will to discuss reducing the deficit. All
Concord Coalition, a non-partisan grow to about 72 percent of the groups were given a list of spend- See Citizens React, Page 13
8 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
Do you or your loved one suffer
from PARKINSON’S DISEASE?
Have you or your loved one developed unusual behaviors
P
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t
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s b If so, those eligible may qualify for a clinical research study
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J with an investigational medication for this condition.
e
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n Investigational drug and study related procedures and
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is For further information, please call
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Attorneys from throughout Northern Virginia join Alexandria General District Court
Chief Judge Becky Moore (front, third from right) at the Institute for Substitute
Judges training seminar July 18 in Alexandria.
Hitting the Mark
WILMINGTON, N.C. by Motorcoach, Sept. 25-28...................$599
Includes transportation, hotel, 3 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners,
Sightseeing, boat ride, wine tasting
Firearms seminar
ALBUQUERQUE BALLOON FIESTA, Oct. 7-16................$2,949
prepares attorneys Includes air from Dulles, Hotel, Daily Breakfast, 5 Dinners,
Sightseeing, transfers
to serve as judges. DAY TRIP FOR LORNA LUFT CONCERT! Oct. 12..............$127
Includes Transportation, Lunch & Concert in Bethlehem, PA
By Jeanne Theismann SHILLELAGHS TRAVEL CLUB
100 East Street SE, Suite 202 • Vienna, Virginia 22180
Gazette Packet
703-242-2204 1-800-556-8646
A
Please visit our Web site at: www.shillelaghtravelclub.com
ttorneys from across Northern Virginia gath-
for a listing of all our upcoming trips and socials.
ered July 18 at the Alexandria Police Fire-
arms Training facility for the fourth Institute
for Substitute Judges, a seminar designed by Gen-
eral District Court Chief Judge Becky Moore to pro-
vide intensive training in firearms law to better pre-
pare attorneys to serve on the bench.
“As I expected, all of Northern Virginia’s substitute
judges were straight shooters today,” laughed Moore,
who is known for her wry sense of humor. “Seriously,
my intent with the fourth institute was to provide
the substitute judges with firearms law information
to help them serve well when they sit as judges.”
Stefan Tahmassebi, deputy general counsel of the
National Rifle Association, led a session on Virginia’s
concealed carry and firearms laws, which was fol-
lowed by weapons training by range master Mark
Morgan. Attendees then took to the firing range for
some hands-on experience with a variety of weap-
ons ranging from handguns to a 9mm MP5, a high- Andrea Mosley, a participant in the Insti-
powered weapon used by SWAT teams. tute for Substitute Judges seminar, fires a
“I am happy with today’s seminar,” Moore said. “I 9mm MP5 July 18 at the Alexandria Police
hit the bullseye if I made learning fun for the substi- and Sheriff Firing Range as a range master
tute judges.” looks on.
B vans
Please join us at The Little Theatre of Alexandria for a fundraiser for
E
The 9/11 Pentagon Memorial & VOICES of September11
• guitar
S
• bass guitar
N For Tickets Call
R
AO • 11 years Tina Barry
TS experience at
UIES • all ages 5+ (703) 683 – 5778
GL ext. 1 Friday, July 22, 2011, 8:00 p.m.
• most styles
Reception, silent auction and raffles
• beginner–advanced
7:00p.m. & continuing after the show.
• individualized
Seating is general admission with a suggested
lessons $35
donation of $40 per person (tax deductible)
• trial lesson $20 Payment by cash or check only
with mention of ad IN LIEU OF FLOWERS DONATIONS MAY BE MADE TO:
Forinformation on the Memorial and VOICES visit
456TH BOMB GROUP ASSOCIATION
112a east del ray avenue Little Theatre of Alexandria www.PentagonMemorial.org FRANK AMADITZ TREASURER
alexandria, va 22301 • 703.232.6807 600 Wolfe Street or
428 NATCHEZ STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15211-1806
[email protected] www.thelittletheatre.com www.voicesofsept11.org
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 ❖ 9
Opinion
Alexandria
Gazette Packet
www.AlexandriaGazette.com
From the CEO Newspaper of Alexandria
An independent, locally owned weekly
newspaper delivered
to homes and businesses.
1606 King Street
Statement of Peter C. Labovitz,
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
President and Chief Executive Officer, NEWS DEPARTMENT:
To discuss ideas and concerns,
Call: 703-778-9410
Connection Newspapers, LLC
e-mail:
[email protected]
As President and Chief Steven Mauren
Editor, 703-778-9415
JFULY 19, 2011 Executive Officer of Connec- [email protected]
tion Newspapers, I take
Michael Lee Pope
or more than 20 personal responsibility for this Reporter, 703-615-0960
years I have been significant failure in oversight [email protected]
honored to be and in the organization’s Steve Hibbard
President and Chief management systems. I am Photo by Louise Krafft/Gazette Packet Associate Editor, 703-778-9412
Snapshot [email protected]
Executive Officer of the deeply sorry this happened.
Connection Newspapers, I am personally making Jon Roetman
3:36 p.m., July 18, The Wavepool at Cameron Run Regional Sports Editor, 703-224-3015
which serve the people of arrangements to pay the most [email protected]
Park.
Northern Virginia and subur- recent shortfalls in full. We
ban Maryland. Since The have changed our ADVERTISING:
To place an advertisement, call the ad
Alexandria Gazette was organization’s processes to department between 9 a.m. and
Letters to the Editor
founded in 1784, our ensure that nothing like this 5 p.m., Monday - Friday.
organization’s journalism has happens again. We have been Display ads 703-778-9410
Classified ads 703-778-9411
played an essential role in our current on our payroll taxes Need To Work Together Employment ads 703-778-9413
communities. for more than three years. No
Julie Ferrill
But like all American employee of Connection Display Advertising, 703-778-9446
newspapers, in recent years Newspapers has suffered any To the Editor: Continuing efforts from the city [email protected]
the Connection Newspapers financial loss whatsoever As ARHA Resident Association and ARHA have created more op- Jane Hughes
have faced daunting techno- because of this. members and Hopkins Tancil resi- portunities for our residents to be Display Advertising, 703-778-9448
[email protected]
logical and economic chal- On July 19, 2011, I pled dents, this response is addressing positive members of our commu-
lenges. We have weathered guilty to two misdemeanor the July 7, 2011 article “Neighbor- nity which we are taken advantage Tara Lloyd
Display Advertising, 703-778-9447
repeated crises that killed or charges of failure to make hood Under Siege.” As tenants of of. These are a few of the reasons [email protected]
crippled many others in the timely payments of payroll ARHA we are working together to crime has been decreasing.
Andrea Smith
news media. I am proud that taxes in the U.S. District Court rebuild our community in a posi- Kara Clemens, a resident of Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411
we have kept these vital in Alexandria. To our employ- tive way. Each month we collec- Chatham Square stated, “We’d like [email protected]
community voices alive. ees, our readers, our commu- tively meet with other ARHA resi- to see zero tolerance.” We as resi- Barbara Parkinson
After the 9/11 terrorist nities and local and federal dents to enhance self empower- dents see a zero tolerance for Employment Advertising
703-778-9413
attacks, when the country governments, I apologize. I ment to be stronger leaders of our people committing crimes in our [email protected]
came to a virtual standstill, understand that newspapers families as well as our community. neighborhood. We see a heavy
our revenues temporarily are a public trust and I know Reading this article was a sur- police presence in our neighbor- Photography:
Louise Krafft
plummeted. And when the our entire organization works prise in the manner that we as resi- hood as well and wonder why if
severe recession began in hard every day to earn that dents were not able to join the things stated in this article like Art/Design:
Geovani Flores, Laurence Foong,
2007, our revenues plunged trust. I will do all I can to Chatham Square Work Group. It gunshots, a car set on fire, drug John Heinly, John Smith
again, often failing to cover sustain that trust as we go is very difficult to be neighbors dealing in plain sight, and threats Production Manager:
Jean Card
our operating costs. forward. with someone who has a problem of violence are there not in inci-
Editor Emeritus:
During these two periods of It’s my privilege and respon- yet will not tell you directly in- dent reports. Mary Anne Weber
great financial duress, our sibility to serve as steward of stead complain to people that are Through serving on the ARHA
organization filed all of our these historic and vital not in our neighborhood. Our Resident Association, trash groups CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427
Circulation Manager:
required tax returns but did newspapers. I hope to con- Chairman Melvin Miller stated, “I have been formed. They have been Ann Oliver
not pay all of its federal tinue in this role. I am com- think their concerns are over- seen picking up trash early morn- [email protected]
payroll taxes in full. We mitted to doing whatever I blown.” ing and even at night. Our area is
CONNECTION NEWSPAPERS,
initially fell behind after 9/11. can to ensure the Connection As residents living in Hopkins often used by others coming from L.L.C.
Most of the payroll taxes in Newspapers adapt to these Tancil we can say overblown they the waterfront who litter. And just Peter Labovitz
President/CEO
this period were paid, but very difficult and challenging are. The article stated, “Gunshots this weekend after leaving the fire-
some balances remained due. times and continue serving in the middle of the night. Drug works, I saw someone who is not Mary Kimm
Publisher/Chief Operating Officer
For several quarters in 2007- our communities for years to dealing in plain sight. Public uri- one of our residents publicly uri- 703-778-9433
2008, we again fell short. come. nation. Threats of violence. A car nating. The people who contrib- [email protected]
set on fire. Screaming and loud ute to the delinquency are not al- Jerry Vernon
Publisher/Executive Vice President
music. Litter rolling through the ways residents. We would also like [email protected]
streets.” I had to wonder where to thank the police for keeping
Wesley DeBrosse
Write this neighborhood they were talk- people that are barred from our Controller
ing about was and when exactly property off of our property. Debbie Funk
are these incidents happening. As a member of the Parker-Gray National Sales, 703-778-9444
[email protected]
The Gazette Packet welcomes views on any public issue. Crime in Hopkins Tancil has sig- Roundtable I have seen firsthand
The deadline for all material is noon Friday. Letters must be signed. nificantly decreased over the last what can be done if communities Jeanne Theismann
Include home address and home and business numbers. Letters are Special Assistant to the Publisher
routinely edited for libel, grammar, good taste and factual errors. Send four years. The Ruby Tucker cen- work together. We do this by com- 703-778-9436
to: ter continues to engage with our ing together and sharing concerns, [email protected]
community for activities for youth ideas, praise, and plans with each A Connection Newspaper
Letters to the Editor
The Gazette Packet and adults, such as homework other. Our group has public hous- The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly
1606 King St. help, GED prep, job skills, and ing residents, home owners, po- Antyo o swelneecrtes do rh oomcceusp iann ttsh eo fC pitrye mofi sAelse txhaantd drioa .not
Alexandria VA 22314 landscaping. ARHA also has a re- lice, ARHA, and Rose Boyd; to- wibsyh tteol erpehceoinvee atht e7 p0a3p-9er1 7ca-6n4 n8o0t iofyr bthye e pmuabilli sthoer
Call: 703-778-9410. lationship with job link that has gether we are creating a better dciirsctruilbautitoonr @wiclol nbnee nctoitoinfinedew tosp daipsecrosn.ctionmu,e asnerdv itchee.
By e-mail: [email protected]
helped provide training for some
of our residents. See Letters, Page 11
10 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ July 21-27, 2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com