This picture of me was taken this summer on the golf course. It was one of those deadly hot days when the temperature and humidity made the air sticky and heavy, which didn’t help the golf ball fly very far. As you can see, I gathered every cooling gadget within reach. So, what inane idiocy had me out there in the first place?
I’m addicted. Golf is hard to explain if you are not a regular player, but it gets into your soul. Beyond always searching for the perfect shot and chasing after lower and lower scores, there’s something positively spiritual about it.
I’ve been playing since I was a kid. I used to sling a light canvas bag over my shoulder with four or five clubs and head off alone to the driving range, putting green, and ultimately to the first tee. I played with my dad mostly on weekends, but during the summer weekdays, I’d be alone, walking nine or eighteen, and time would disappear. My mind would clear. I was prac-
ticing and trying to get better, but it was me against me. In the silence, against the beauty of the green grass and flowering plants, the glistening water, and the beaches of sand traps.
Oh, some say it’s a silly game where you hit a little ball into a surgically cut, four-and-a-half-inch hole with a stick, but that’s just
something you do while spending a spiritual day alone or jumping into a couple of golf carts with friends and laughing, telling stories, and sharing life’s ups and downs. I’ve made my best friends on the golf course. And rain or shine, hot or cold, it’s always a good day when I pull my golf shoestrings tight, fasten my golf glove, and pull out that brilliant, white, dimpled sphere. It’s better than meditation or medication.
I think many of you find the same peace and Zen in yoga, running, painting, writing, or in various other ways. Perhaps this new issue of Zebra takes you away, too, in a positive way—our incredibly creative and dedicated team has given their best to the edition. Please enjoy, follow us online and on social media, and patronize our advertisers and sponsors—without whom, we’d be lost.
Z-TV
SEPTEMBER ’24
Mary Wadland
Comcast Surprises Youth Employment Program
Graduates With Laptops
Graduates of the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program received quite the surprise during their graduation ceremony at Alexandria City High School Aug. 9. Comcast gifted 130 laptops to the gradu-
ates. This is the second straight year the company has donated computers. The program, which lasts six weeks, helps students learn digital skills and prepares them for the workforce.
Free for All Ages: Tons of Trucks Sept. 21
Have a kid who loves trucks? Don’t miss Tons of Trucks when it rolls into Alexandria Saturday, Sept. 21. The popular event is a hit every year. It is taking place from 10 a.m. to p.m. at Chinquapin Park (3210 King St.), rain or shine. Admission is free to celebrate the city’s 275th anniversary.
“Attendees of all ages are invited to explore and get behind the wheel of their favorite City vehicles, meet the staff who help build, maintain, serve, and protect the community, and learn about the vehicles they use,” reads the Alexandria eNews bulletin about the event.
Neighborhood Health (NH) provides care to people who are typically low-income, uninsured, or underinsured. With locations in Alexandria, Arlington, and Fairfax County, the nonprofit – which receives support from the federal government – serves tens of thousands annually. The organization received a grant of $500,000 to increase access to cancer screenings. The amount will be given over a twoyear period.
According to the National Cancer Institute, research shows that access to screenings and treatment is affected by income. Aiming to change that for NH patients, Carole Johnson and Jim Macrae, the administrator and associate administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, respectfully, visited the Alexandria location at 6677 Richmond Hwy. There, they announced the grant and toured the facility.
From left: HRSA Associate Administrator Jim Macrae, Neighborhood Health CEO Dr. Basim Khan, and HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson (Photo: Eduardo Mantilla-Torres/Neighborhood Health)
Photo courtesy Comcast
Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
Scan QR Code to purchase tickets or go to https://www.thetwig.org/event/ 82nd-historic-alexandria-homes-tour/
“To
Photos:
Turning Blindness into An Asset
BY JANE PLITT
I bet you never heard of her, but Wanda Díaz-Merced changed our understanding of the Universe through sound. She is an amazing scientist and role model. She is also a blind astrophysicist who has turned her disability into an asset. With a post-doctorate from the Center for Astrophysics, a collaboration between the Smithsonian and Harvard, she continues to play a vital role in developing systems to use sounds to analyze astrophysical data. She has even developed a better way to identify black holes. Díaz-Merced is considered one of seven trailblazing women in science, according to the BBC, but her path was full of physical challenges.
Born with disabilities in a small Puerto Rican town, she and her sister used to pretend to fly spacecraft. It was a middle school science fair that encouraged her to pursue science. In her twenties, she became totally blind due to diabetic retinopathy and struggled to complete her undergraduate studies. Explains Díaz-Merced, “Because I couldn’t see what the lecturers were writing on the board, and I didn’t have access to the books.” Yet, she decided to persist and took classes again and again until she graduated in six years from the University of Puerto Rico, then went on to get her doctorate and post-doctorate.
Díaz-Merced was supported by mentors and key groups. She was included in Google’s first annual European Scholarships for Students with Disabilities in 2011 and an internship with Robert Candey at NASA Goddard Spaceflight Center in Maryland.
But first, a friend played a recording of a sunburst. Diaz-Merced recalls, “I
could hear the sun in real-time, and when the sunburst finished, I could hear the galactic background.”
Díaz-Merced is an extraordinary role model, an achiever who personifies how it takes a village to succeed. Diaz-Riad shares this advice for success, “Remember, outstanding people do not become great overnight. They must keep (their) focus until they become victors in their mission. Not giving up is hard, but keep moving forward, find good mentors, and be a good mentee.”
Since September is National Hispanic Heritage Month, it is particularly timely to recognize Diaz-Riad’s
struggles and extraordinary achievements. Read more about her on the National Center of Women’s Innovations website, womensinnovations. org , and join our effort to showcase women innovators like Diaz-Riad and encourage young people, especially girls.
The National Center of Women’s Innovators (NCWI) plans to roll out more STEM educational programs promoting the stories of such women, along with providing the handson STEM programming developed by Rosie Riveters. NCWI just received funding from the local Rotary Chapter to support an effort with the Boule
Foundation for a STEM camp next summer. As we spread our wings and impact, we can use volunteers, especially here in Alexandria. We can use you! Contact jane@womensinnovations.org
A prime example is Lucelle O’Flaherty, our board secretary, who has turned her remarkable love and connection with seemingly everyone in the city into candidates to join forces with us through their skills, network, or contributions.
While many of us identify her with the Zebra Press, her ever-present camera/phone that captures the myriad community activities for Zebra as its community liaison, I know her to be the devoted policymaker and always willing go-to person to handle nitty-gritty to-dos, whether it be putting together our step and repeat system (solved through the good graces of Volunteer Alexandria), hunting down the perfect recognition gift for our thank you dinner honoree, or strategically including me in key opportunities to meet the generous people of our community.
Lucelle O’Flaherty is part of a three-generation Alexandria family with a powerful track record for making a difference in the community and the world. She has a long history of serving and caring about all people. After retiring as a beloved Wells Fargo banker, Lucelle became the community liaison, photographer, and reporter for The Zebra Press. Lucelle captures the people, their spirits, and historical events, usually accompanied by her Yorkie mix, KAY K. She is an active member of her church, head usher, and leads the annual pet blessing. Be sure to thank Lucelle for her tireless deeds and wish her a Happy Birthday month!
The Seward Group
Courtesy NCWI
Courtesy photo
Lucelle with Kay K
Photo: IAU
Wanda Díaz-Merced
How Are the Kids Doing and How Many Are Coming?
BY ROD KUKRO
Is ACPS, with multiple new elementary and secondary school buildings, now overbuilt? Have students fully recovered from learning loss associated with the pandemic? How is ACPS serving its exceptionally diverse student population? How will the end of pandemic-related federal funding affect ACPS? How is ACPS addressing employee retention and development in an era of teacher shortages and intense talent competition from nearby school systems? What is it like to attend Alexandria City High School now that its new Minnie Howard Campus is open?
A diverse and qualified panel will address these and other topics when Agenda: Alexandria kicks off its 2024-2025 season on Monday, September 23 at 7:00 pm at the Lyceum with a program on the Alexandria City Public Schools
Mark Eaton will moderate the discussion. Eaton is a parent of three children who went through ACPS. He served three terms as
a member, vice chair, and chair of the school board from 1997 through 2006. From 2007 through 2021, he taught English and Journalism at what was then T.C. Williams High School, now Alexandria City High School, where he was the English Department chair or co-chair for ten years.
Eaton currently writes a monthly column, “About Alexandria , ” and occasional feature stories for The Alexandria Times. His columns, feature stories, and other work can be seen on his Substack at aboutalexandria.substack. com/
Sophie Huemer, Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) director of the Office of Capital Programs, Planning, and Design Services, manages the design and construction of facilities for the division and supervises a diverse staff, including full- and part-time employees and contractors.
Huemer first joined ACPS in 2020 and most recently served as the school division’s principal planner, managing the formulation of the 10-Year Capital Improvement Plan Budget, aligned
with the school board priorities alongside facilities and operations leadership. Hammer has led ACPS through four capital improvement program budget cycles.
Before joining ACPS, Huemer had seven years of urban planning and project management experience in Hanover County, Virginia, Raleigh, North Carolina, and Denton, Texas. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science at Roanoke College and a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from Virginia Commonwealth University. She also earned a post-baccalaureate certificate in Geographic Information Systems from Virginia Commonwealth University.
James Libresco is a dedicated student journalist and activist.
A senior at Alexandria City High School, he is editor-in-chief of Theogony, the student-run newspaper. His work has appeared in numerous publications, including the Alexandria Gazette Packet , Alexandria Times, and Zebra , and received national awards. James is also student body president, a varsity basketball player, and an advocate for youth mental health
Monday, September 23 at 7:00 pm
The Lyceum 201 S. Washington Street
and wellbeing.
Carmen Sanders has been the executive director of instructional support for the Alexandria school system’s Department of Teaching, Learning and Leadership since 2022. Previously, she was the campus administrator for Alexandria City High School - King Street Campus (ACHS), an assistant principal at George Washington Middle School (GW), and a dean of students at ACHS. She began her educational career in 2006 as a teacher and served in the classroom until 2012.
Sanders provides instructional leadership and support to all schools in ACPS as a member of the Department of Teaching, Learning and Leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English language, literature, and composition from Virginia Polytechnic University and a master’s degree in educational administration from Trinity University.
Additional panelists are being considered.
Visit agendaalexandria.org for more information.
Photos: Courtesy of Agenda Alexandria
Mark Eaton
Sophie Huemer
Carmen Sanders
James Libresco
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September Honors Gold Star Families
BY DONNA REUSS
Earlier this year, I wrote about Gold Star Spouse’s Day, officially recognized annually on April 5. In addition to spouses, however, the “gold star” designation also applies to the family members – parents, siblings, children, and extended families – of those who are killed in action or who die from injuries as a result of active duty military service.
In June 1936, President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated the last Sunday of September as National Gold Star Mother’s Day. President Barack Obama amended the title to Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day in 2011 to recognize all Gold Star family members. We honor these Gold Star Families on this last September Sunday each year.
The “gold star” tradition dates to World War I, beginning with the “Man-in-Service Flags,” or “blue star” banners, displayed in the windows of homes to signify a family member or members in active military service.
In 1918, the Women’s Committee of the Council of National Defenses suggested to then-President Woodrow Wilson that mothers of fallen service members wear a traditional black mourning armband embossed with a gold gilt star to recognize their sacrifice. President Wilson authorized the armbands, referring to the women as “Gold Star Mothers” in his letter to the Council.
However, the bands did not catch on. Instead, families replaced their service banner blue stars with gold stars to signify the price they had paid for the cause of freedom. Many of these banners were handmade by family members. A law passed in 1942 authorized the Secretary of War to approve a national design
standard for the banners.
To further honor these families, in 1947, Public Law 80-306 established a Gold Star lapel button to recognize the “widows, parents, and next of kin of members of the armed forces who lost their lives in the armed services of the United States in World War II.” The round button features a gold star, representing sacrifice, on a purple background, signifying mourning, surrounded by a gold laurel wreath, a traditional Greek symbol for victory.
Interestingly, neither the Gold Star banner nor the lapel button stipulated that the service member had to have died in combat or during military operations.
Since 1947, several laws have revised eligibility for the Gold Star Lapel Button. Eligibility expanded to include World War I, then specified criteria for various post-World War II periods, requiring involvement in and defining the types of combat or military operations to qualify, including international terrorist attacks and as part of peacekeeping forces. Public Law 116-92, dated December 20, 2019, authorizes the Department of Defense (DoD) to define which family relationships are entitled to receive the Gold Star Lapel Button.
While not a DoD program, some military services honor families with The Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel Lapel Button. This button is given to the families of service members who lost their lives while serving on active duty or in a drill status as a National Guard or Reserves member. The button is gold in color, with a star within a circle of four oak branches. The star commemorates honorable service; the oak sprigs represent the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force.
Although many people have forgotten or don’t even know the meaning of the Blue and Gold Star designations, thousands of Gold Star Family members are living with the loss of loved ones from the two World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and other conflicts. Over 1.3 million people are involved in the military today. According to the Department of Defense, more than 7,000 service members have been killed in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq alone since September 11, 2001. More than 16,000 troops have died from other causes in that time. Those who receive the dreaded notification of the loss of their loved one never forget that moment.
I listed this in my April article, but it bears repeating: a great resource for information about Gold Star benefits is “A Survivor’s Guide to Benefits: Taking Care of Our Families” at www.militaryonesource. mil. Or contact the applicable mil-
Photo: Office of War Information
Star Banner in Home Window 1943
Photo: US Army
ABOVE: Gold Star and Next of Kin Lapel Pins LEFT: Man-of-Service Flag circa 1944
Photo: Library of Congress
Photo: US Navy
White Rose for a Gold Star Mother
YMCA Thingamajig Convention Inspires
Future Thinking in Young Inventors
BY JULIE GARDNER
The United States Patent and Trade Office hosted the 30th Annual YMCA Thingamajig Invention Convention on Tuesday, July 30. Over 600 children, ages five to 14, participated in handson activities, challenges, and competitions.
The activities incorporated Science, Technology, Education, Art, and Mathematics, commonly called STEAM. STEAM education aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity among students and prepare them for their future endeavors.
THINGAMAJIG participants could be seen scattered throughout the building’s atrium, lobby, conference halls, and cafeteria. The YMCA staff worked tirelessly to prepare for the event. It turned the USPTO into a giant classroom of wonderment where they could explore, experiment, and invent.
Janice Williams created the Thingamajig Invention Convention over 30 years ago when she was the Senior Vice President of Program Development for the YMCA. Williams realized the average child received less than 15 minutes of science education daily during the school year. “Thirty years ago, I created Thingamajig because I no-
ticed kids weren’t getting the hands-on opportunities they needed to become the creative problem-solvers they needed to be to take on tomorrow’s challenges,” she said.
The now-retired Williams described the details behind her motivation: “I pushed them to explore and create inventions, using recyclable materials because they need to learn to solve problems with limited resources while also being good stewards of the environment.”
She hopes kids will be motivated to think out of the box, enjoy learning, and strive to do more than they had ever imagined. Events always include children from many different backgrounds who might never have gotten the opportunity to participate in these programs due to lack of funding.
One of the activities was titled “Trashion Fashion.” Kids could show off their “passion for fashion” by creating looks that are fabulous and help save the planet. It incorporated materials that could be repurposed for their creation, such as buttons, pieces of jewelry, and other odds and ends. Other invention challenges allowed the children to submit their own inventions in
BELOW: Paisley Thomas helped educate Thingamajig participants on prosthetic devices and other tools to help those with different abilities thrive.
ABOVE: A display of young inventors’ creations.
RIGHT: Welcome to the Thingamajig Invention Convention.
ABOVE: YMCA staffer David Miles, YComm News-SEP 2024-MCA Director Carolyn King, and Norma Hutcheson at the Trashion Fashion activity table.
RIGHT: One visitor with his granddaughter surprised museum associates by pointing out the invention of his grandfather, James A. Parsons, an inventor whose portrait is displayed in the museum.
Photos: Julie Gardner
LIVING LEGENDS
Charles Wilson
BY JEANNE THEISMANN
Charles Wilson, a retired U.S. Air Force officer, is a dedicated advocate for the youth of Alexandria. He has served in numerous advocacy positions and made a difference in countless situations, including through his service as vice chairman of the school board for Alexandria City Public Schools.
“I was influenced by mentors like Ferdinand Day and Lynnwood Campbell,” said Wilson. “They said I was blessed and that I needed to give back to the community. So I jumped in where I thought I could make a difference.”
Wilson grew up in Chicago and credits his early education for setting him on a path to success.
“I was one of two minorities selected to attend an elite Jewish high school,” Wilson said. “Being accepted to that school was a turning point in my life. It helped me see what I might be capable of achieving.”
Wilson went on to study at Southern Illinois University, where he was part of the ROTC program. Upon graduation in 1964, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force. He was deployed to Vietnam, where he served with the 82nd Fighter Squadron and the 315 Air Commando Wing.
For nearly a quarter century, Wilson served his country, including as executive director of the U.S. Department of Defense executive leadership program at the Pentagon. He was also a military liaison to the Republic of China, advancing through the ranks and retiring as a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force in 1988.
Upon his retirement from the military, Wilson began a career in financial planning and human resources development. He
ran for and won election to the School Board in 2003, serving nearly 10 years including as vice chair.
During this time, he was encouraged by fellow School board member Sheryl Gorsuch to get involved with the newly formed Parent Leadership Training Institute, a nonprofit that seeks to enable parents to be better advocates for their children. Wilson committed to the program and serves on the Alexandria chapter of the PLTI advisory board.
In 2009, one of Wilson’s Omega Psi Phi fraternity brothers, Jim Paige, was in the process of establishing the Concerned Citizen’s Network of Alexandria.
Paige asked Wilson to join the organization, where he serves today as the CCNA treasurer.
“I know the importance of education and see firsthand the difference CCNA has made in
IDENTIFY, HONOR & CHRONICLE
The mission of Living Legends of Alexandria is to identify, honor and chronicle the lives of individuals who have contributed to the community in an exemplary and lasting way that has significantly impacted the quality of life in Alexandria and serves as an inspiration to others. Through our annual Legend selection, we not only recognize the Legends currently in our midst, but also create a resource for future Alexandrians.
the lives of young people and their families,” Wilson said.
Like Paige, Wilson touts the successes of his fraternity, which was founded at Howard University in 1911, a first for a historically black college.
“We are committed to community service,” Wilson said of the African American collegiate fraternity. The Alexandria chapter of the organization is heavily involved in service to the community through events like coat drives and with members volunteering with special needs children and adults at the Miracle League baseball games.
Wilson has served as a municipal consultant to the City of Dayton, Ohio, and an adjunct professor at Park University. He was PTA president and also served as vice chair of the Northern Virginia Hotline.
In addition to his profession-
al roles, Wilson earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maryland in 1976 and an MBA from Webster University in 1979. Wilson utilized his knowledge and experience to establish a vending machine business in San Antonio, Texas. And when you use a microwave, you can thank Wilson, who is also credited with the invention of the microwave oven carousel.
Since his retirement from the military, Wilson has remained active with various endeavors.
In addition to serving as vice chair of the Alexandria School Board, he is a past chairman of the Washington D.C. Area School Boards.
A fellow of the D.C. Life Underwriters Council, Wilson is also involved with the American Society for Training and Development, the human rights commission of the International Personnel Management Association, and Toastmasters International, among other originations.
Wilson has been honored by Marquis Who’s Who for Excellence in Community Service for his many achievements. Additionally, he was chosen to be featured in the Who’s Who in Finance and Business, and the Who’s Who in the South and Southwest. He has also appeared in multiple editions of Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in the World.
Wilson has four children: Audrey, Angela, Andrew and Aaron. His first wife, Shirley, was a fellow Air Force officer who died of cancer at a young age. He has been married to his current wife, Mona, for 35 years.
“I go back to that turning point in my life – being accepted into that Jewish school,” Wilson said. “I am thankful to all those who encouraged me along the way. I truly have been blessed.”
Photo: Steven Halperson/Tisara Photography
Charles Wilson
SNEAK PEEKS — ADDRESSES REVEALED ON TOUR DAY!
Do You Know About the 82nd Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour?
BY MARY WADLAND
The Historic Alexandria Homes Tour began in 1941 when the Senior Auxiliary of the Alexandria Hospital sponsored it. Since 1997, it has been run by The Twig, the Junior Auxiliary of the Inova Alexandria Hospital.
The tour has been held annually except for 2020 when the onset of COVID-19 kept everyone isolated.
In 2021, the organization pivoted to an outdoor garden tour, but things are back to normal now, and the town is ready for this much-anticipated annual event.
How Are Houses Chosen for the Tour?
Many houses are on tour because their owners have restored
One Author & One Book That You Must Know
INTERVIEWED BY: SHENISE FOSTER
In the Washington DC Metro area, it may be assumed that every historically significant story has been told and every local gem discovered. However, as I was scrolling through Instagram, a post of a newly published book, 111 Places in Black Culture That You Must Not Miss in Washington, DC , caught my attention. I was so intrigued that I ordered the book immediately and read it from cover to cover. I knew I had to interview the author, Ms. Lauri Williamson, and dive into the Howard alum’s passion for history and the book’s origin story.
During this interview, I touch upon Ms. Williamson’s entrepreneurship journey and her path to becoming an author. She stated several times throughout our discussion, “I never want to live with regret,” and I believe she has conquered that by making an imprint in the travel & tourism industry.
Zebra: What made you decide to open your DC Tours & Events tourism company?
Ms. Williamson: While working at my previous job as a systems analyst, I met a person on the board of directors who owned a travel agency. After talking about the ins and outs of the business with them, I went to travel school at night and assisted with planning conventions with the board member’s travel agency.
This led to a career change. I transitioned from planning conventions to companies hiring me to manage onsite logistics and operations. I took tour guide classes during this time because I knew I wanted to make this a viable business. Once I received my tour guide license, I opened my company in 2018 with a continued focus on events so I could still assist clients with meetings and conventions.
To accompany DC Tours & Events, I also started Capital Keepsakes. I have been making gift baskets for years, which I do on the side. From
experience as a convention planner, I knew I would need gifts that were not the usual tourist souvenirs you could get anywhere. So, I developed a line of DC, Maryland, and Virginia-related items that would appeal to my clients, and it has been a great success thus far.
Zebra: Your moniker is Chief Experience Officer. What does that entail?
Ms. Williamson: I am a company of one who does it all. I added “experience” to my title because I try hard to make every interaction great for people. I value high-level customer service and strive to give the best experience possible. The goal is to have people recognize that it’s more than just a name, but a standard that can be expected when working with my company and me.
Zebra: You recently published your book, 111 Places in Black Culture That You Must Not Miss in Washington, DC. Can you tell me more about it?
Ms. Williamson: It wasn’t one thing that made me decide to write this book. Several experiences came into developing this project. The first spark of inspiration
most surprising things you learned when writing your book?
Ms. Williamson: I was surprised by the many stories and businesses in this area. One in particular was the story of the Pearl. I had no idea that this was the site of the single largest escape from enslavement that had ever occurred in the country, and it happened at the Wharf right here in Washington, DC. That just blew my mind. I could not find the marker anywhere along the boardwalk. I had to come back on a separate occasion to locate the plaque at the intersection of Wharf Street Southwest and 7th Street
started when I was attending Howard University, when I realized so many stories highlighted African Americans who were not a part of the mainstream. Fast forward to my becoming a tour guide, I started connecting and sharing experiences with other tour guides about what history was not being told. African American history was the recurring topic. It clicked one day when I was talking to my good friend and fellow tour guide, Andrea Seiger, who wrote the book 111 Places in Washington DC That You Must Not Miss, that I would write a companion book focusing on the must-see African American establishments and historical sites. She graciously got me in contact with the publisher of 111 Places After receiving the go-ahead, I began the proposal and research process. I had to write four chapters and provide all the featured 111 establishments. After many edits and revisions, the book was released on Juneteenth this year.
Zebra: What was one of the
Southwest.
Zebra: How do you hope your work will impact your readers?
Ms. Williamson: I am proud that native Washingtonians have read the book and discovered new businesses and cultural experiences they didn’t know about. The great thing about the 111 Places brand is that the focus is to appeal to locals and entice them to explore other parts of their city. These days, I think people are more willing to explore in their own backyards. I’m happy I have provided a guidebook that assists them with their explorations.
Zebra: What are some of your favorite Alexandria establishments and why?
Ms. Williamson: I tend to like places where history happened. George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a great place to visit because it has a rich history that tells the whole story of the peo-
ple who lived there. There is a tour highlighting the enslaved community and their contributions to sustaining the massiveness that is Mount Vernon. There’s so much to learn and see there, and I always recommend that everyone visit at least once when they visit the area.
Another place that surprised me was the Unique and Special Kids Spa. From the outside, the building looks like an office complex, but when you enter, you see this an adorable space with lab coats and outfits for the kids to put on, and themed rooms, and a runway for kids to showcase their new looks.
Zebra: What’s next?
Ms. Williamson: I’m working on tours to go with the book. The first in this lineup is a collaboration with Politics & Prose Bookstore It will focus on Black Broadway and the Shaw neighborhood in DC. In September, I will participate in Walking Town DC by Events DC, a week of free tours given by local tour guides.
Then, I plan to begin developing a tour of Arlington National Cemetery. Honestly, this is one of my favorite places to visit, and all other Washington, DC sites are number two. That’s because it represents American History. A military cemetery is a place where everybody has sacrificed in some way so that everyone can enjoy what we have today. My tour will focus on African Americans buried at the cemetery, such as the United States Color Troops, the Tuskegee Airmen, and Medgar Evers. This fall, I’ll speak about the book at the Literary Hill Bookfest in October and, in December, at the Black Author Expo in Suitland, MD. Zebra readers can keep up to date with Lauri Williamson on the DC Tours & Events website (dctoursandevents.com/) or by following her on the following social media platforms: Instagram (instagram.com/dctoursandevents) and Facebook (facebook.com/domorethantour/).
Photo: Lauri Williamson
Photo: Shenise Foster
ABOVE: 111 Places in Black Culture That You Must Not Miss in Washington DC
RIGHT: Ms. Lauri Williamson
On Walls and Fences
BY NINA TISARA
Walls and Fences. Their purpose is to hold some things in and keep some out.
Good or bad? Yes, I think, both good and bad.
There are walls and fences in and around all kinds of buildings and spaces – homes, businesses, schools, parks -- and prisons. Around countries. I’m thinking of the Great Wall of China.
Last month, I revealed that one of the things I like about writing this column is that it inspires me to research things I don’t know about. It’s true. I’m not one of the 50 million annual visitors who, according to Travel China Guide, visit
the 13,171-mile wall annually. I’ve just learned that some 37 years ago, in 1987, the Great Wall was listed as a World Heritage Site (travelandleisure.com).
According to Wikipedia, “The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications built across the historical northern borders of ancient Chinese states and Imperial China as protection against various nomadic groups from the Eurasian Steppe.”
Travel China Guide says that it didn’t always succeed.
“For thousands of years, the Great Wall, to some extent, acted like both a physical and mental barrier between the central Chinese Empire and the barbarian northern nomads, but this
only worked for the underdog. Several strong nomadic tribes in history had managed passage across the barrier. For instance, in the 13th century, the Mongols led by Genghis Khan breached the wall and subjugated north and central China for nearly 100 years; in 1644, the Manchus entering from Shanhaiguan resulted in the collapse of the Ming Dynasty.”
Closer to home is the U.S.-Mexico Border Wall.
In some places in the west, there is high double fencing. In others, there no fencing, The Rio Grande and the rugged terrain around the river serve as a natural barrier.
Do border walls work?
According to the Migration
Policy Institute’s “Borders and Walls: Do Barriers Deter Unauthorized Migration?” (Reece Jones, October 5, 2016) fortified walls did not prevent crossings
into the United States entirely but instead shifted flows to other locations that were more remote and dangerous leading to more deaths. Note this headline in USA Today, Aug. 3, 2023: Two found dead in Rio Grande where Texas’ floating barrier and razor wire sparked federal lawsuit.
Still, millions of people globally continue to cross borders without authorization—meaning walls are relatively ineffective. They are however effective as symbols that demonstrate that politicians are
doing something to address the perceived threats brought by unauthorized movement. The perceived threats can be economic in the form of lost revenue and jobs and they can be cultural in that migrants bring different languages and traditions.
An example of border fencing close to me is the Critter Guards I had installed around my solar panels. They keep squirrels from gnawing the wiring, but falling leaves slip be-
Photo: Greg Bulla/Unsplash
ABOVE: The U.S.-Mexico border wall stretches miles through mountainous terrain.
LEFT: Artist Sushmita Mazumdar ran a Family Legends program for Living Legends of Alexandria where the kids made books shaped like houses with windows and doors. You opened the window or door to reveal the story. 2017.
Thriving Through Transitions
BY DR. AMY FORTNEY PARKS
As we turn the page to September, the rhythm of our lives shifts once again. Back-to-school season is upon us, but instead of getting lost in the shuffle of new schedules and school supplies, let’s hit pause and think about the broader theme of transitions. Whether it’s starting a new school year, moving to a new neighborhood, or simply adjusting to the changing seasons, transitions are a constant in our lives. And here’s the secret: every transition brings a chance to welcome fresh perspectives, new relationships, and a little family growth.
Navigating New Environments
Transitions often mean stepping into new environments—whether it’s your child walking into a new classroom or your family
setting up shop in a different community. Exciting? Absolutely. Nerve-wracking? You bet. But here’s something cool: neuroscience tells us that our brains love routines because
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When you visit our office, your smile is our top priority. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized, gentle care that you deserve.
We are a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, long lasting smiles!
they’re energy-saving. So when you shake things up, it’s like teaching your brain a new trick after doing the same old routine for years— it’s tough, but oh so rewarding. Help your kids lean into these changes by talking about what excites them and how they can tackle any challenges with curiosity and a bit of adventurous spirit.
Building New Relationships
New environments often come with new friendships. Whether it’s meeting new classmates, teachers, or neighbors, these connections can have a big impact on your family’s growth and happiness. Encourage your kids to invite a new friend over or try out that after-school club they’ve been eyeing. And parents, don’t be shy—get in on the action by reaching out to other families or diving into local events. These new relationships can inject fresh energy into your family, making life feel a little more vibrant and connected.
Supporting Each Other Through Change
Let’s be real—transitions can be as tricky as trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions. They’re full of potential, but they can also be a bit of a challenge. The good news? You’ve got each other. Keep those lines of communication open, validate everyone’s feelings (even if someone’s stressing over mismatched socks), and remind each other that it’s perfectly okay to feel a bit wobbly during times of change. Work together, and you’ll turn these transitions into golden opportunities for growth. And hey, if things get tough, there’s always ice cream—the universal cure-all for life’s little bumps.
Seeking Support When Needed
Lastly, remember that it’s totally normal to seek support during transitions— whether it’s from friends, family, or a mental health professional. Just like you wouldn’t think twice about seeing a doctor for a sprained ankle, reaching out for mental health support is a smart, proactive move when life gets a little too chaotic. Embracing transitions doesn’t mean going it alone; sometimes, the best way forward is with a little backup. Think of it like adding training wheels to your bike—a bit of extra support makes all the difference.
Here’s to embracing change, together—with a smile, a laugh, and maybe a scoop of mint chocolate chip. Your parent’s heart is full of wisdom—Be WISE! Got questions? Need support? Connect with our practice on social @wisefamilies and with me @heydoctoramy! Let’s make your family life as awesome as it can be!
Dr. Amy Fortney Parks has over 30 years of experience as an educator, psychologist, and clinical supervisor. She holds a PhD in Educational Psychology, specializing in child and adolescent developmental neuroscience. Dr. Parks founded WISE Family Wellness and the Clinical Supervision Directory. She is a clinical supervisor, adjunct professor, international speaker, podcast host of *Supervision Simplified*, and soon-to-be author. A native Alexandrian, she enjoys reading teen fiction, mixing Bloody Marys, and hanging with friends who have boats. Connect with her on social @heydoctorparks.
Photo: iStock
Photo: iStock
The Context of Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial
BY BLAKE WILSON
Much has changed in the Commonwealth since the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial opened on September 6, 2014. The Confederate statues in Richmond have been removed along with Appomattox a few blocks away. These removals reflect a wider push to reevaluate what would be honored in public space and how.
In many instances, revaluation is not the result of a single spontaneous act but an organized effort that takes time and includes many losses.
In the case of Freedmen Cemetery, an active friends group led by Lillie Finklea and Louise Massoud was founded in 1997 for the purpose of preserving, commemorating and researching a little-known Civil War-era African American buying ground in Old Town Alexandria.
Early in the Civil War, the Union Army occupied Alexandria, making it the first Confederate city to fall. Under Union rule, it became a sanctuary of sorts for enslaved Black people fleeing bondage. Once in occupied territories, the formerly enslaved were reclassified as “contrabands of war,” and placed under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army. Poor health, overcrowding and disease would claim the lives of many before the end of the Civil War.
In March 1864, just under a year before Robert E. Lee surrendered in Appomattox, Virginia, an empty site on the southern end of the city officially became a burial ground for contrabands, many of whom were children. The official record of burials, totaling nearly 2,000 at the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery, ends in 1869, when the federal government abandoned the site. This record, kept by cemetery administrator Rev. Albert Gladwin, was uncovered and published by Wesley Pippenger.
The site languished for decades and the cemetery disappeared from city maps in the 1940s. This allowed the site to be redeveloped with a gas station in the 1950s, just in time for the suburban growth of the mid-twentieth century.
In 1987, T. Michael Miller, historian for the city of Alexandria, found proof of the cemetery deep in the historical record. This information, when published, would moti-
vate Lillie Finklea to act. A decade later, with Louise Massoud, the Friends of Freedmen’s Cemetery was founded.
Social and cultural historian Ana Lucia Araujo writes, “In societies around the globe, places where the dead are put to rest, such as churchyards, cemeteries, and tombstones, constitute exemplary sites of memory designed to permanently commemorate the deceased.” The
steadfast team of Finklea and Massoud pushed for the present day Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial, one that halted any further desecration while permanently commemorating the deceased.
The upcoming anniversary arrives at a time when cemeteries across the region, from Moses African Cemetery in Bethesda to Douglass Memorial Cemetery here in
Alexandria, are engaged in lengthy fights to properly honor those interred so that they may rest in peace.
On Saturday, September 7 at 8:00 pm a candlelight vigil and wreath laying will be held at Freedmen’s Cemetery. Shuttle service will be offered starting at 7:30 pm, leaving from the Lee Center. All are welcome.
Photos courtesy of the Alexandria Black History Museum)
The gas station that once existed on cemetery land.
The Freedman’s Cemetery Historical Marker
Lillie Finklea and Louise Massoud in 1997.
Art on the Avenue Is BACK!
THE 29TH ANNUALART FESTIVAL
The countdown for the 29th Annual Art on the Avenue is just starting, and already, the event is breaking records. Over 600 artists applied for the region’s top arts festival, bringing new talent – plus old favorites – to Del Ray’s signature fall event.
Art on the Avenue returns to the streets of Del Ray on Saturday, October 5, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Voted by Virginia Living readers as the top arts event in Northern Virginia, Art on the Avenue is entirely volunteer run, with support from the local business community. The event draws over 50,000 people annually and features over 350 artists, four stages of live music, free children’s crafts, international food, a pie-baking contest, and more.
Don’t miss these Alexandria-based artists who will be making their Art on the Avenue debut:
Andreas Barrett Art Studio instagram.com/tterraba
While this is abstract painter Andreas Barrett’s first year participating in Art on the Avenue, the festival is a family affair. His 13-year-old daughter, Grace, is marking her fourth year as an Art on the Avenue youth artist.
Calina Franzosa Fine Art calinafranzosa.com
An avid traveler, Calina Franzosa is an oil painter who strives to capture everyday scenes, intimate landscapes, and epic vistas in a way that makes places unique and familiar.
Coastal Driftwood coastaldriftwood.com
Trish Karsadi draws her inspiration – and materials – from the sea. She uses driftwood as her medium to cre-
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STRONG!
ate sailboats, air plant arrangements, and scenes; she also uses sea glass to create framed sea glass art.
Darren Smith Art darrensmithart.com
Darren Smith is a mixed media artist who creates collages by hand using a combination of his original photographs plus postage stamps; the resulting layering of the pieces creates a subtle three-dimensional effect, adding depth and casting shadow.
Devi Creations
A fiber artist, Ranjanaa Devi counts knitting as a part of her spiritual practice. “Each stitch is infused with a meditational prayer with the hope that my work will bring happiness and calm to those who wear them,” said Devi.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
The Del Ray Docket
September 5
First Thursday: Saddle Up!
6 p.m. to dusk along Mt. Vernon Ave
Grab your boots and enjoy live music, themed activities, and more to benefit the Alexandria Police Foundation. For complete details, visit visitdelray.com.
Sept. 6-28
Fascinating Fiber, Alluring Fabric Exhibit
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave
This exhibit focuses on fiber and fabric art – including its influence on other mediums.
Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28
Del Ray Farmers’ Market
The Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, Oxford & Mount Vernon Avenues
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This year-round market features fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheeses, bread, fresh pasta, baked goods, cut flowers, and so much more. Note: The Kids’ Power of Produce (POP) Club meets on September 14.
Sept. 14
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
Mount Vernon & East Bellefonte Aves
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Find your treasure! Shop 50+ vendors selling vintage, antique, thrift, artisan goods, and more. For more information, visit delrayvintageflea.com.
September 21
Del Ray Artisans’ HalloWEIRD Art Market
Colasanto Park, Mount Vernon & Commonwealth Aves
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Join the Del Ray Artisans for a Halloween-themed outdoor art market offering a wide range of original artwork, including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more.
September 21
Cinema Del Ray
Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields, at Mount Vernon Ave. and Commonwealth Ave. Dusk
Join The Jen Walker Team for Kung Fu Panda 4 under the stars. The movie starts at dusk and is free and open to all.
September 29 Run! Geek! Run!
Start/finish at George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mt Vernon Avenue 8:30 a.m.
Presented by Ironistic, Run! Geek! Run! is an annual 5K and 1K kids’ fun run that raises money to support a local charity; this year’s beneficiary is Peterson Life with Cancer at Inova Schar Center. Visit rungeekrun.com for more information and to register.
October 5
Art on the Avenue
Along Mount Vernon Ave
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Art on the Avenue, Del Ray’s signature arts festival, features over 350 artists, live music, international food, children’s activities, a pie-baking contest, and more. The event is free and open to all; trolley transportation is available from Potomac Yard and Braddock Road Metro. For more information, visit artontheavenue.org.
Photos by Laura Quintero
ART ON THE AVE
Eastman Photography eastman-photography.com
Fritz Eastman splits his year between Virginia and Utah, doing portraits and winter landscapes.
Fiscus Glassworks fiscusglassworks.com
Brad Fiscus has been creating stained glass art – from window suncatchers to large custom installations – for over 20 years. Drawing from his experience as a former public school teacher, Fiscus also opens up his Alexandria studio for a wide variety of classes in stained glass and fused glass art.
GepPETto’s Hand Craft
Orlando Rincon creates handmade dog and cat articulated figurines from recycled wood.
Henry Egghart Photography flickr.com/photos/65738506@N08
Henry Egghart specializes in landscape, cityscape, and nature photography, with an emphasis on local scenes in Alexandria, Fairfax County, and the Mid-Atlantic region.
KFRONT Designs
kfrontdesigns.com
Architectural elements, travel, and nature inspire Kari Frontera’s photography. “My photography highlights the beauty that lies in the details of texture, pattern, and the small moments in time,” said Frontera.
Kush instagram.com/kush.leather
Bassma Soliman creates handmade leather goods such as bags, wallets, and briefcases.
Lapsing Luddite instagram.com/lapsingluddite
Eva Hartman’s photography focuses on unusual perspectives, including art inspired by adventure.
Lola Earnestine etsy.com/shop/lolaearnestine
Courtney Arnold creates oneof-a-kind needle-felted jewelry. “Every piece is a love letter to my late cousin, Earnestine Epps Locke, and the important and unique women, girls, and femmes in my life,” said Arnold. Lumos Collective lumoscollective.com
Based in Del Ray, Jade Geary crafts reiki-infused crystal candles and ritual oils designed to transform spaces into sanctuaries of positive energy and enhance holistic well-being. made by Knerq knerq.square.site
Nicole Gauvin creates greeting cards and art pieces by elevating upcycled materials with the “iris paper folding” technique to form each piece.
Mother of Light Center
Sewing School
motheroflightcenter.com
The Del Ray-based Mother of Light Center gives back to our community in various ways, including food distribution, af-
ter-school programs for children, and sewing classes for women in need to build community and teach new skills. The Mother of Light Sewing School will have a wide variety of items, including bags, table runners, baby items, and more.
Norris Design Company norrisdesigncompany.com
A digital illustrator and relief printmaker, TJ Norris’s work is a mix of modern and traditional techniques. Norris creates and plans his prints using a digital drawing tablet, transfers the artwork to a block, carves the design by hand, and then prints the design using a manual press.
When she’s not helping run her family’s businesses – two Del Ray favorites, The Dairy Godmother and Just Fine Donuts – you’ll find Olivia Gravatt behind the lens, specializing in nature and portrait photography.
Picturesque Images picturesque-images.com
Photography started as a hobby to relieve stress. Now, it’s a
who specializes in travel and nature photography.
Sierra Bravo Art sierrabravoart.com
Sierra Barnes is a cartoonist, illustrator, and resident artist with the Torpedo Factory Art Center, creating books, hand-printed zines, and prints/illustrations based on history and folklore.
3 Meat Heads 3D Printing
One of Art on the Avenue’s first artists to utilize 3D printing technology is 3 Meat Heads 3D Printing, launched by 9thand 6th-grade brothers Patrick and Alexander Morse and their friend, James Riley. “We like to create neat toys and fidgets that we think people will like,” said Patrick.
Art on the Avenue takes place Saturday, October 5, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mount Vernon Avenue between Hume and Bellefonte Avenues. The event is free and open to all. Free trolley transportation will be provided from Braddock Road and Potomac Yard Metros. For more information, visit artontheavenue.org
passion project for Morrya Jones,
The Swings Addition Completes McCutcheon Park!
It was over 20 years in the making but Gilbert S. McCutcheon Park is now complete with swings to complement the other play equipment on site.
A huge community effort spearheaded by Villamay resident and VCA Community Park Chair Steve Markle has now completed the original vision for the play area of the park located at 7509 Fort Hunt Road.
The effort dates from the original purchase of the property from the Lamond Family in 2000 and culminated in a ribbon cutting for the swings, the last missing piece of the original vision, on August 2 in the Mount Vernon area park.
Speaking at the ribbon cutting, Markle, according to VCA, said, “This 26-year partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority should serve as a model. When we work together…if we need something beyond our capability, they help us get it.”
Praising his fellow Villamay residents, Markle said, “Over the last 24 years, we have
put in 9,700 volunteer hours in the park, and we’ve pulled over 7,000 invasive plants since the pandemic.”
The Villamay Community Association spearheaded fundraising for the playground, raising $23,000 toward the total cost of the project in 2004. These funds were matched with two Mastenbrook Grants each for $10,000, but due to limited funding, the project scope did not initially include swings.
However, the community came together once again and raised $13,000 in just a year to add a swing set to the park. These funds were matched with a Mastenbrook Grant in 2023 and the $26,000 project was completed in July.
“This new swing set is a shining example of what the Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program is all about,” said Park Authority Board Member Linwood Gorham during his remarks at the ribbon-cutting cer-
Photo: Steve Hunt
Photo: Steve Hunt
Photo courtesy FCPA
LEFT: FCPA member from Mt. Vernon, Linwood Gorham, speaks at the ceremony.
Photo: Steve Hunt
ABOVE: Community children at the playground equipment next to the new swings.
RIGHT: The park is named for longtime Mount Vernon activist Gil McCutcheon.
Photo: Steve Hunt
RIGHT: Mastenbrook Grant Coordinator Julie Tahan and Project Manager Pat Rosend from the FCPA enjoy the new swing set at Gilbert S. McCutcheon Park.
Photo courtesy FCPA
Photo: Steve Hunt
Steve Markle tries out the swing set he worked so hard to get for Villamay.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
LEFT: The new swings in all their glory await their use by community children.
LEFT: Supervisor DanStorck speaks.
Flashbacks to a Storied Career at Mount Vernon
For 55 years Dean Norton has been a pivotal part of George Washington’s Mount Vernon in many roles culminating in Horticultural Director. At the end of this year he will retire. In the March 2024 issue, Zebra featured his long career in a detailed story on all he has done for Mount Vernon’s trees and gardens.
Over Norton’s years at the estate, he has played many roles and Zebra now pays tribute in pictures to some of his exciting personal encounters and to early days in colonial uniform, including playing taps at George Washington’s tomb.
Photos courtesy of Dean Norton and Mount Vernon Estate
July 1969 as a young soldier
Norton playing taps at George Washington’s Tomb as a boy scout on Feb 19, 1973.
Norton with former Kentucky First Lady, former Miss America and former CBS sportscaster Phyliss George.
Norton with Prince Charles now King of England.
Norton and Willard Scott, NBC’s beloved weather man.
Norton with his daughters Zipporah, left, and Penelope right.
Norton getting an honorary doctorate from Washington College. Dean Norton with First Lady Laura Bush. With Mrs Bush is the Japanese Emperor Hirohito’s widow.
Back to School: Time to Renew Our Commitment to School Attendance
BY MATEO DUNNE, MT. VERNON SCHOOL BOARD REPRESENTATIVE, FCPS
Editor’s Note: Fairfax County schools are back in session and Mount Vernon’s Representative to the School Board has a message for all of us. This is the first of what we hope will be several columns on issues important to the school community — parents, students, teachers, administrators and the community at large.
We are fortunate to live in a time and place where the Constitution requires the State to provide “a system of free public elementary and secondary schools for all children of school age” and “ensure that an educational program of high quality is established and continually maintained.”
Fairfax County Public Schools is an exemplar of public education, but each child’s educational attainment and ability to realize their potential is contingent on regular school attendance. During the pandemic, our children lost the habit of
attending school every day. Chronic absenteeism—defined as missing 18+ days (or 2 days per month) in the school year—nearly doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels.
This is a universal phenomenon
affecting students at all income levels in every region of the country. Fairfax County is no exception. It is also highly destructive. Chronic absenteeism has been linked to reduced student achievement, social disengagement, and feelings of alienation because students miss out on opportunities to learn, to build friendships, to get involved in their school communities, and to pursue their interests.
Chronic absenteeism disproportionately affects students from marginalized backgrounds, including those from low-income families, students with disabilities, and English language learners. By addressing absenteeism, FCPS can take a significant step toward promoting equity and ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed.
There is no grade level at which school attendance should be considered optional. For example, students who are chronically absent in Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade fall behind in learn-
ing to read.
At every age level, chronic absenteeism can make it difficult for students to keep up with the pace of learning. Once students fall behind, it can be hard for them to catch up, especially if they have limited resources. If we learned anything from the pandemic, there is no substitute for being in the classroom.
Addressing chronic absenteeism is vital to our success, particularly as Virginia is enacting school accreditation standards that will penalize schools with higher chronic absenteeism rates. FCPS is going above and beyond to ensure students attend school every day, but this challenge requires a multifaceted approach that schools cannot tackle alone.
I look forward to working with educators, families, community leaders, my School Board colleagues, and other policymakers to reduce absenteeism and ensure every child receives a world-class education.
AHS’s Annual Gala Set for Sept. 21
In River Farm’s Lovely Gardens
This year’s annual American Horticultural Society River Farm Gala will be a “fun-raiser” of cocktails, dinner and dancing on Sept. 21 on the beautiful riverfront grounds of River Farm. The black tie event will be co-hosted by Skipp Calvert, a member of the AHS Board of Directors, and Lauren Bisho of McEnearney Associates.
Highlighting the vibrant culture of gardening and horticultural practices, the gala raises vital funds to support AHS’s outreach and educational programs and the stewardship of River Farm, headquarters of the AHS. Marcia Zech will be presented with the AHS Gold Medal during the event. A long-time dedicated member of the AHS Board of Directors, Zech has played a pivotal role in championing the society’s
mission, ensuring its financial sustainability, and safeguarding its historic River Farm headquarters.
The AHS will also posthumously honor Jim Nau, the 2024 recipient of the AHS’s highest accolade, the Liberty Hyde Bailey Award,
for his lifetime contributions to the field. A revered figure in the horticultural world, Nau dedicated his entire 37-year career to the Ball Horticultural Company, where he excelled as a plant expert, writer, speaker, historian, and garden designer. He passed away in June 2023.
The “fun-raiser” at River Farm, 7931 E. Boulevard Dr., will run from 6:00 to 10:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $375 each, with complimentary valet included. Sponsorships start at $1,250. For more information about the gala and sponsorships, contact AHS Director of Development and Engagement Katie Tukey at ktukey@ ahsgardening.org or call (713) 7685700 ext. 144. Visit ahsgardening. org/2024gala to purchase tickets and sponsorships.
Photo courtesy FCPS
Mateo Dunne
Photos courtesy AHS
Jim Nau
Marcia Zech
It’s All in the Family for Two Hollin Hall Village Popular Restaurants
VIAVENETOAND ROSEINA’SARE MORETHAN JUST NEXT-DOOR NEIGHBORS NOW
BY SUSAN MULLIGAN FLEISCHMAN
Via Veneto owner Kathy Mack knows a thing or two about family. For 40 years, she was part of a loving restaurant family who owned the popular Italian eatery in the Alexandria neighborhood of Hollin Hall Village. But when the time came to pass the baton to the next owner, Kathy knew she needed to find just the right buyer to continue the legacy her mother started.
Little did she know that the new owner was hiding in plain sight.
Sarai Navarrete and her husband, Jose, bought the gourmet carryout and catering restaurant Roseina’s in 2021, right next door to Via Veneto in Hollin Hall. Soon enough, Kathy and her staff became friendly with their new neighbors.
After an outside offer for purchase fell through, Sarai was having a casual conversation with one of the staff at Via Veneto. He wondered aloud whether Sarai and Jose had ever considered buying Via Veneto. Sarai was intrigued.
ry forward. They want to show respect for the entire Via Veneto family, so diners can expect to see familiar menus and specials. “Of course, we will also introduce new daily specials,” Sarai explained. “While the recipes are not changing, people who have loved Via Veneto for 40 years will have new items to try.”
“Sarai and Jose will do a wonderful job,” said Kathy. “And I’m not going away for good! I’ll still come in and help from time to time. The customers who support and love this restaurant have become like family. They are so dear to me. I look forward to seeing them again.”
As the outpouring of love and support rolls in on Facebook, it’s obvious the feeling is, indeed, mutual.
“A seed was planted,” said Sarai. She and Jose discussed the matter at length. “It was a great opportunity. We know the community, and we love being here, so what could be more appropriate than expanding our service?” The Navarretes approached Kathy, and they all began to plan.
PARK
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20
emony.
Thanks to the collaboration between the Villamay Community Association, the Fairfax County Park Foundation and the Park Authority’s Mastenbrook Grant Program, Gilbert S. McCutcheon Park now has a two-bay set of swings, which include both stan-
Kathy Mack was beside herself. “I couldn’t have asked for a better scenario,” she said. “They want to carry on the legacy that my mother and aunt established and keep the same menu and personnel.” Needless to say, the staff was thrilled.
dard belt-seat model swings and a two-seat “expression swing” for a parent and child, where the adult and child are comfortably seated face-to-face at eye level with one another.
This unique design promotes intergenerational play and fosters social connection. “Fairfax County Parks play a critical role in our everyday lives – physical and emotional wellbeing, social connections and
Twin Facebook announcements from Kathy and from Sarai and Jose made it official in late July. Kathy bid a bittersweet adieu, expressing appreciation for the community’s support over 40 years and placing her gratitude and trust in Sarai and Jose. And the Navarretes pledged to continue the same delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere where memories are created and friendships flourish. The Navarretes have gratefully accepted the baton from Kathy to car-
sense of community, and most important, an opportunity to spend time with family,” Supervisor Storck said.
“While it may appear to be ‘just a swing set,’ what this represents is more time that children and families can spend in the park. It’s another opportunity to extend the fun, to spend just a little more time together outdoors.”
Visit Via Veneto and Roseina’s in the Hollin Hall Village Shopping Center, 1309 and 1307 Shenandoah Rd., at the corner of Fort Hunt Rd., Alexandria, VA 22308.
We are a community-based rm in Fort Hunt serving residents and businesses in Northern Virginia.
• Wills, Trusts & Estate Plannning
• Estate Administration & Probate
• Small Business General Counsel
• Nonpro t Law
• Advance Medical Directive/ Power of Attorney
Photo: Susan Mulligan Fleischman
(L-R) Jose and Sarai Navarrete with Kathy Mack.
BY GOVERNOR BURKE
Last time around we featured two houses on Swifts Alley, between the 100 blocks of South Fairfax Street and South Lee Street. It’s one of the remaining cobblestone alleys in Old Town. One side of the alley faces the back of the shops and galleries in the 100 block of King St. Kids from the neighborhood often visited the back door of what we called “The Paper Shop,” which was actually Newell-Cole Printers. The kind owners would often supply colored drawing paper, which was actually trimmings from their print jobs to kids knocking on the back door.
The other side of the alley has a few houses that at different times were the residences of nationally seen TV stars. For a few summers in the late 1960s, David Henesy lived at 1/2 Swifts Alley. David was a child star on the Gothic daytime soap opera, “Dark Shadows.”
Johnny Depp later starred in the movie version. The yellow house shown last month at 2 Swifts Alley, also faces the Burke & Herbert Bank’s parking lot. The former tobacco warehouse was renovated by architect David Rosenthal in the 1960s and was his family’s home.
More famously, the house was owned in the 1990s by former Today Show host Katie Couric and her late husband, Jay Monahan. Photos below.
spots in Old Town, Alexandria, and jump in with guesses, and comments, follow the discussion, and submit your own photos for consideration, join the Unseen Old Town Facebook group!
As for the photo above, we will reveal what it is and where it is in our next issue, along with a new one for you to ponder.
Photos: Courtesy of Unseen Old Town Facebook Group
Around the World With Zebra
BELOW: Norman Dailey was in the Galapagos with The Zebra. “We saw Blue & Red Footed Boobies, Hammerhead Sharks, Land and Marine Iguanas, Fur Seals, and this guy, a Sea Lion who loves The Zebra,” says Dailey.
Send us your photos from around the globe, and we will publish them in the upcoming issue. Next time you take a trip, domestic or international, snap a pic and send to editor@thezebrapress.com with ZEBRA AROUND THE WORLD in the subject line, along with a descriptive caption.
$150K Grant for Digital Preservation of Alexandria Library Sit-In Documents
BY KEVIN DAURAY
The 1939 Alexandria Library Sit-in story will be preserved for future generations. The National Historical Publications and Records Commission recently awarded New America, a national nonprofit think tank, a $150,000 grant. New America will collaborate with Alexandria Library to digitize documents related to the historic event.
An Alexandria Library newsletter announcing the grant award indicates that most of the money will be sub granted to the library to help purchase scanning equipment, digital cameras, and transcription software.
The plan “is to digitize an estimated 4,370 pages from these collections and make available approximately 4,400 image files through the Alexandria Library’s web pages and database searches,” according to the
newsletter. What happened that day in 1939?
Samuel W. Tucker, a lawyer, arranged for five Blacks to go to Alexandria Library (now the Barrett Branch at 717 Queen St.), a Whites-only institution. The group – William Evans, Otto L. Tucker (the attorney’s brother), Edward Gaddis, Morris Murray, and Clarence Strange – protested “separate but equal” treatment. Tucker had previously attempted to gain equal access for Blacks. But until the sit-in, he had been unsuccessful. That day, one man asked for a library card, was denied one, and sat down to read his book. Soon, another followed. When library staff contacted the police, Tucker, waiting in his office, learned that the protesters would be arrested. He secured a photographer to document the moment and represented them during their release
from police custody.
New America is also launching The 1939 Library Sit-In Project. This is described as “a multi-year digital initiative” that will uncover more about the event and put its legacy front and center. Part of that legacy is that the Sit-In is believed to be the first in this country.
Rose Dawson, the executive director of Alexandria Library, participated in a panel earlier this year at SXSW EDU in Austin, TX. Called Arrested for Reading, the panel members discussed how to teach forgotten history and bring hidden stories out into the open.
Regarding the project, she said, “This partnership between New America and the Alexandria Library opens the doors of access and tells the story to a new generation, and we are excited to see where it leads.”
File photo
(Left to right) William “Buddy” Evans, at left, Otto Tucker, Edward Gaddis, Morris L. Murray and Clarence “Buck” Strange led led out of the Barrett Branch Library are led out by police on Aug. 21, 1939.
ABOVE: David McClure was in Copenhagen visiting family and captured this great shot with his July copy of Zebra.
RIGHT: Meg Hayward with Mick & Mary Meredith Wolverton at “Meg and Mary’s 46th Annual Crab Feast” in Annapolis, MD. And Zebra was there too!
Drive Away Happy: The Benefits of Credit Union Car Loans
BY CARRIE LAZAR
When considering buying a new or used car, choosing the right lender is crucial.
With over 4,600 federally insured credit unions serving more than 139 million members across the United States, credit unions present an attractive option for car loans. While national banks often boast more branches and advanced technology, savvy consumers looking to save money should explore the unique advantages of credit union car loans.
Lower Interest Rates
Credit unions typically offer lower interest rates on auto loans compared to banks and online lenders. This is largely because credit unions are not-for-profit institutions, allowing them to
prioritize member benefits over profit. According to the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the average rate on a five-year new car loan from a credit union in late 2023 was 6.39%, compared to 6.90% at banks. This difference can save you hundreds of dollars in interest over the life of the loan.
Personalized Service and Community Ties
Credit unions are known for their personalized service and community-focused approach. For example, United States Senate Federal Credit Union (USSFCU) has deep ties to the Alexandria, Virginia community, ensuring that members receive attentive and customized service. If you have a lower credit score, CONTINUED ON PAGE 33
Hungry?
Welcome to September. The kiddos are back in school, and should be comfortable with their new schedules. That means many families are changing their eating habits too. And, as always, the Alexandria restaurant always rises to the occasion. Here’s a small sampling of what’s happing around town.
Coming Soon
Opening in the Carlyle Center, 1925 Ballenger Ave., is Honeymoon Chicken, a fried chicken restaurant listed in the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand in 2022, Catalogue, the operator of the Federalist Pig and Ted’s Bulletin. The new concept replaces Sidekick Bakery but keeps Ted’s Bulletin. Ted’s
Bulletin will still be opening in early 2025. The restaurant will be modeled on the new generation of Ted’s restaurants aimed at a wider range of customers. The menu will expand to include all-day breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Both restaurants will be located in the same building anchored by Wegmans.
Thanida Thai, is one of the restaurants displaced by the plans for a new building in the location of the Montgomery Center. A ‘Coming Soon’ sign is on the door of 1200 N Fayette St. This family owned restaurant won’t be far from their former location. They will feature their traditional Thai recipes at reasonable prices as they always have. Narman Restaurant, 682 N. St. Asaph St., is moving into the space formerly occupied by Sunday in Saigon. We had previously reported it was going to be an Italian restaurant. Narman is a fine dining Turkish restaurant that will feature “a gateway to the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Turkey. At NARMAN, we pride ourselves on offering an authentic Turkish dining experience that tantalizes your taste buds and nourishes your soul.”
La Tingeria, is opening its third location in Port City Brewing Company, 3950 Wheeler Ave., in October. Bill Butcher, founder of Port City is changing their food model of food trucks to a brick and mortar restaurant. The menu will feature chef David Peña’s signature items including fan favorites like the goat and beef birria tacos and chicken tinga tacos. New items will include lamb burger sliders and Sonoran hot dogs wrapped in Halal beef bacon. According to Butcher, when describing the new partnership, La Tingeria, “Their menu is both authentic and unique, and the quality is top notch. Of course, tacos and craft beer are a natural pairing.”
The new location of Thanida Thai
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
A bucket of chicken from Honeymoon Chicken
Behind the Ovens
Wilfredo spends a morning in late August working with pitted cherries and chocolate, mixing them into yummy chocolate brownies at MB Bakery on the Go, 3103-3107 Colvin Street.
FOODIE NEWS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
New News
Que Rico on 1033 W. Glebe Rd. is a new entry on the popular Peruvian restaurant scene. The restaurant is serving homestyle Puerto Rican cooking. The menu features traditional Puerto Rican flavors, includes specialties such as a variety of House Rice, Pernil (Puerto Rican Style Pulled Pork), Mofongo (green plantains fried and mashed together with oil, garlic, salt, and sometimes chicharrón) and a variety of Puerto Rican Street food like Pastelillos. They are closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Saying Goodbye
a la Lucia, 315 Madison, is scheduled to close at the end of September. The block in Old Town North was bought last year and announced plans to replace the Montgom-
ery Center with residential units, retail and arts stores on the ground floor, and underground parking garage. There have been multiple delays but it appears the September date is firm. Corporate Red Lobster filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May which resulted in our local Red Lobster at 555 S. Van Dorn to close on August 31. The location survived the first round of closure of 100 locations but is listed in the 23 additional closings.
Nearby neighbors
Have you visited the Water Park, 1601 Crystal Drive, in Crystal City. The area includes a Food Hall for year round dining, an entertainment stage, lots of seating, and a designated “sip and stroll” area, Heating elements are used to make the seating areas comfortable in cold weather. There are nine local food kiosks and two sit-down restaurants, the latest being Fat Fish serving Hawaiian-inspired poké bowls, bento boxes, sushi rolls, and teriyaki waffles. The other kiosks include Brij, a café dedicated to supporting the local Latin American Youth Center, Bubbie’s Plant Burgers & Fizz with plant-based and kosher-certified Americana burgers, and Cracked Eggery that serves egg sandwiches and bowls. Dolci Gelati serves fresh made gelato, Falafel Inc. offers falafel bowls and sandwiches, PhoWheels provides Vietnamese-inspired dishes like pho and banh mi, and Queen Mother’s offers crispy fried chicken sandwiches, Tiki Thai is a fusion of Thai and Polynesian flavors. Sit-down restaurants include Water Bar where you’ll find locally-sourced seafood and craft cocktails. Crush Pizza serves New York-style pizza, sandwiches, and fine wine. Until next time, eat well and enjoy! Do you have any newz or tidbitz to share? Contact me at Debbyc@thezebrapress.com
Courtesy photo
Check out the options at Que Rico
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Sign from a la Lucia
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Some of the offerings from Fat Fish at the Water Park
Photo: MB Bakery
Man versus Pizza
BY DEBBY CRITCHLEY
Benny’s has a standing challenge for anyone (over the age of 18) willing to go against their pizza. However, if your guardian approves, teens are allowed to compete. The rules are simple:
• Previous Challenge winners are prohibited from re-entering the Challenge.
• The clock starts the first time the pizza is touched.
• Any beverage is allowed (soda, water, beer)
• Bathroom breaks are not permitted.
Contestants will be disqualified for any of the following:
• Starting prior to start signal
• Vomiting on premises before, during, or after the challenge
• Sharing pizza/crust
• Cheating
And if you beat the pizza, the rewards are innumerable!
• $280 check ($100 for professionals)
• Benny’s Challenge T-Shirt
• Picture posted to website and in the store with time completed
• And the best prize: Bragging rights
On Wednesday evening, August 29, Antonio Gilbert, a local competitive eater,
Photos: Susan Engles
Photo: Debby Critchley
Antonio’s father, wife, and daughter hug him after his valiant effort
Photo: Debby Critchley
Benny’s owner Maryanne shows Antonio Gilbert the 28” pie he is about to try to tackle in 28 minutes.
Photo: Debby Critchley
Slice four begins with his dad urging him on
MEMORIES
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
tween the panels and can’t get out, possibly causing damage to the roof. Good and bad.
Yet another example is the view of the inside of apartment buildings, which can be seen when buildings are demolished either intentionally or by disaster.
There’s a story behind each wall that most of us never see or think about until the walls come down. Again, good and bad.
Fences and walls provide privacy and at least a sense of security. Good or bad? Yes, good and bad. What do they keep out? What do they hold in?
In closing, I offer these lines from a Unitarian hymn,
“… though these sheltering walls are thin, may they be strong to keep hate out and hold love in.”
Author: Louis Untermeyer. Source: Singing the Living Tradition, Hymn #1
Mosaic artist/photographer is the founder of Living Legends of Alexandria.
FROM PAGE 13
or maintained their historic homes, are proud of the endeavor, and enjoy sharing their hard work. Over the years, many Twig volunteers have shared their own homes. Others are the houses of supporters who walked the tour and were inspired to show their properties.
“Often the process involves word of mouth,” says Twig volunteer Scoti Albrecht. “A group of ladies also scout out homes for the tour.”
“Home addresses are not revealed in advance to keep it all a surprise,” adds Albrecht.
Why is the Tour Such a Draw?
Visitors love discovering what’s behind the facades. The furniture, paint colors, design, and artwork are revelations. On occasion, people are astonished to see pools and beautiful English gardens.
“The touring guests are
interested in a house’s history,” says Albrecht. “They are curious about how people decorate things and about collections. In the past, there have been book collections, presidential portraits, and one woman collected Chinese hats. Some are almost museum-like.”
Many people travel from out of state just for the Historic Homes Tour. Twig chalks that up to the tour’s quality reputation, how it respects homeowners and ticket holders, has designated water and bathroom stations, the lack of long lines, and wait time, and that the tour is a good value at only $45.
Tidbits to know about
This year’s tour:
Local florists donate flower arrangements for each house.
One house in this year’s tour faced foreclosure but is now a city gem.
There is a house that has a horse alley and one where the owner couple has cocktails on the side deck every
night and chat with people passing by.
One historic house has been completely redone internally; it has everything new inside. It is completely different from everyone else’s and very eclectic.
Ask if there have been and ghost sightings.
What’s Changed Over the Years?
Not much, really, except how tickets are purchased and guidebooks distributed. Technology has modernized the process. Instead of sending checks by mail, patrons buy tickets online and download the tour books. Visit https://www.thetwig. org/event/82nd-historic-alexandria-homes-tour/ for tickets.
“It saves the organization a lot of money—not printing all those tickets and tour books,” says Albrecht. “It allows Twig to give more money to the hospital.”
Scene Around Town
Photos by Lucelle O’Flaherty unless noted
ABOVE: Sue Meisner with YOSSI with Anh Phan & LULU, at LULU’S 10th Birthday Party in Del Ray.
RIGHT: Shannon Watson (TCW 1985 & Scholarship Fund of Alexandria Board Member), Vicky Jordan and Carol Mills (TCW 1974) at the Noah Lyles (TCW 2016) Olympic Watch Party at Alexandria City High School.
ABOVE: Pat Miller and Sue Kovalsky (McEnearney) - Del Ray Leaders having fun at First Thursday.
RIGHT: Yonie Mela Dow with her pup, ZIGGY with Lindsey Peake, visiting from New Hampshire.
ABOVE: Jackie McCord, Adult Day Care Services Director- Always with an enthusiastic smile and on her job for 27 years!
Ronnie Willett’s Retirement Party from National Park Service (NPS) was held to celebrate his 35 year career. Ronnie (center holding plaque) is surrounded by NPS friends.
ABOVE: The Birchmere hosted a Community Event and Celebration of Life for their General Manager,John Calvin Brinegar Jr.(Nov 16, 1964- July 15, 2024). His family is pictured here around his portrait: Sophia Lessa, John III, John IV & Judy Brinegar and Magnolia, and Kristen & Wil Jackson.
ABOVE: Attorney Marvin Miller and his wife and daughter having lunch at The Warehouse. LEFT: Lynne Julia Pendlebury Colby was spotted leaving a Salvation Army Advisory Council meeting in Del Ray.
LEFT: The Greek and The Freak: Suzanne Tsacoumis and Zebra’s Steve Houk performed their music at The Four Mile Run Farmer’s Market on a Sunday morning.
ABOVE: Craig Swanner with his mom, Christel Swanner celebrating her milestone birthday at The Warehouse
LEFT: On a Meals on Wheels delivery Libby Cooperman shows Mary Wadland that her cat Jainabeast (R.I.P.) is in the AWLA annual calendar.
Volunteer Alexandria Welcomes Board of Directors for FY2025
Volunteer Alexandria announced its new Board of Directors — Aliyah Bufford, Irena Laster, Jim Lookabaugh, and Taneika Taylor Tukan.
“It is heartwarming to see people interested in our mission and understanding the importance of engagement in Alexandria and for our nonprofit and city partners,” says Marion Brunken, Executive Director. “Together, there is a wealth of knowledge and expertise, as well as energy and motivation to make this community stronger.”
Ms. Aliyah Bufford is a teacher who teaches students how to read, write, and speak English. She aspires to create her own school curriculum and help reform the public school system through educational policy.
Ms. Irene Laster has 15 years of experience in marketing and event management. A marketing manager at Ting, she supports local causes, organizations, and initiatives while promoting fiber internet.
Mr. Jim Lookabaugh works for Internet2, a non-profit provider of carrier-grade networking with a research and education mission. Jim is no stranger to being a Board member and has served as Chair, helping the Board guide through revision and modernization efforts.
Ms. Taylor Tukan serves as the Executive Director of
CREDIT UNION
you may find more flexibility and understanding at a credit union. They often take the time to consider your individual circumstances, which can be a significant advantage if you need to negotiate payment terms or need additional support during tough financial times.
User-Friendly Loan Process
Applying for a car loan through a credit union has never been easier. Many credit unions, including USSFCU, offer online applications and 24/7 phone support to streamline the process. Pre-qualifying for a loan with a credit union can provide you with a competitive edge when negotiating with dealerships, ensuring you secure the best rate without dealer markups.
Member Benefits
As a member-owned entity,
the School Engagement and Community Partnerships at Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) and has been involved in the Alexandria community since 2016.
“I am truly honored to step into the role of board chair and to work alongside such a dedicated and talented group of new board members. Together, I am confident that we will continue to fulfill our mission of supporting the Alexandria community with passion and purpose. I look forward to the great work we will accomplish together, “said Nicole McNally, Board Chair.
“Thank you to the outgoing members Mary Ann Burstein, Darell Grimes, Janelle Hope, and Kim Koch for their work, time, and skills in helping us grow and support our city. We appreciate you and the energy you brought to the board,” adds Brunken.
Visit https://www.volunteeralexandria.org/ourboard to view full bios.
a credit union returns profits to its members in the form of lower loan rates, higher savings rates, and reduced fees. Additionally, many credit unions participate in shared branch and ATM networks, providing convenient access to your funds nationwide. Credit unions also emphasize financial education, offering resources and advice to help you make informed financial decisions.
Easy Membership
★ ★
Mason Butler for Alexandria City Council Meet
Joining a credit union is simpler than many people think. While some credit unions require specific employment or community ties, many, like USSFCU, offer broader membership options. This means almost anyone can become a member and take advantage of the benefits, including lower car loan rates.
Additional Services for a Seamless Car Buying Experience
Credit unions like USSF-
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 CONTINUED ON PAGE 41
Paid for by Mason Butler for City Council
me in the middle
Aliyah Bufford Irena Laster Jim Lookabaugh Taneika Taylor Tukan.
Top row, L to R: Jackie Huelbig, Veronica Floyd, Jim Lookabaugh, Paige Fawehinmi, Kevi Greenlief, Irena Laster, and Nicole McNally. Bottom row, L to R: Georgina Malloy, Emmanuel Obe, Aliyah Bufford, and Taneika Taylor Tukan.
Photos courtesy of VolALX
The Evolution of a Native Plant Sale
BY KRIS GILBERTSON WITH SUSAN MCLAIN SULLIVAN AND SCOTT KNUDSEN
The 40 th Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale will take place on Saturday, September 28, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Church of St. Clement, 1701 N. Quaker Lane, Alexandria. Founded in Parkfairfax in 2003, this twice-yearly sale is recognized as the largest gathering of native plant vendors in a single event in the DC metropolitan region.
Thirteen native plant vendors will be on-site, some traveling several hours from Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and DC. Local musician Jim Sheats will perform at 11:00 am. Admission is free, and parking is plentiful (see sidebar for details).
The native plant sale has become a tradition in Alexandria. It was founded in October 2003 by Parkfairfax resident Scott Knudsen with
help from his wife Jennifer Pease, volunteers from the Tree Stewards of Arlington and Alexandria, and members of the Parkfairfax Woodland and Landscape committees.
The plant sale grew out of Scott Knudsen’s lifelong fascination with trees. He earned the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service’s Tree Steward of Arlington and Alexandria inaugural certification in 2001. Scott recalls being amazed to learn how much he did not know about what trees need to thrive or the danger that the non-native invasive vines commonly grown in area gardens pose to trees in urban and suburban landscapes.
A year later, he learned that a neighbor had cut down a mature tree to provide more sunlight for a garden. Disturbed, he described it to a friend, Susan Crawford, who told him about native plants that thrive in woodland shady areas.
The concept of using native plants to garden in harmony with trees and the natural ecosystem resonated with Scott. He began going to native plant conferences, such as the Lahr Symposium at the National Arboretum and the Irvine Native Plant Seminar at the Irvine Nature Center northwest of Baltimore. He listened to presentations by influential speakers such as Douglas Tallamy, a notable entomologist and wildlife ecologist at the University of Delaware, who inspired him further.
Knudsen got hooked on gardening with native plants and began spreading the word about the benefits of landscaping with plants that work in harmony with nature instead of against it.
As Scott promoted native plants, he was inspired in the spring of 2003 when his neighbor Matt said, “Scott, it’s great that you’re excited about native plants, but I don’t have time
All photos courtesy of Scott Knudsen, except where noted. Spring 2022 Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale.
ABOVE: Sometimes the plant taxi carries more than plants.
ABOVE: Guitarist Jim Sheats at the fall 2022 Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale.
PLANT SALE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34
to go to some native plant symposium in Maryland or somewhere. I just want to go to Home Depot and buy some plants.”
Matt’s comment convinced Scott that he needed to bring native plants into the neighborhood for people to see and buy. The point is that many gardeners only need to learn the virtues of native plants to make successful garden and landscape in-
vestments for patios and yards. He says, “Anyone can experience the botanical pleasure of seeing the right plant thrive in any size garden, terrace, or yard.”
Planning began for the first Parkfairfax Native Plant Sale to be held that fall. The goal was then and still is to focus on two missions:
“One is to open people’s eyes and thoughts about how we can connect to the interconnected natural landscape; the second is to reduce the number of invasive plants in people’s gardens and yards.” The broad aims of the sale remain twofold: (a) to provide local gardeners with immediate access to native plants and information about native plant gardening, and (b) to provide a healthy marketplace where small native plant nurseries can reach a broader clientele.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 38
A MESSAGE OFAPPRECIATION FROM SCOTT KNUDSEN
I want to thank all the people and organizations that have pitched in to hold this native plant sale over the past two decades. I could not have continued the sale without the enthusiastic support of so many people.
First and foremost is my wife Jennifer Pease. Even the second sale in Spring 2004 could not have happened without her. Jennifer is a huge part of why this event continues each time.
My friends in Parkfairfax and in the area have been a big support, as has the Tree Stewards of Arlington and Alexandria. Six to eight Tree Stewards assist with the setup of the sale, staff information tables, survey customers about the sale, run a plant-sitting area, and help to clean up.
Members of the Potowmack Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society provide infor mation and advice about native plants and their organization. They also offer Plant NOVA Natives guides (Native Plants for Northern Virginia) to purchase.
Other organizations that have over the years include the Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia, the Arlington Regional Master Naturalists, and the Virginia Cooperative Exten sion Service, especially Kirsten Conrad, the VA Cooperative Extension agent based at the VCE office in the Fairlington Community Center.
In the early years, Parkfairfax management and staff were very helpful in providing assis tance with the sale. The Church of St. Clement has graciously allowed the sale on its grounds 18 times. For three years, Christ the King Church, across the street on Oakcrest Drive, has given us use of its parking lot for sale customers.
The Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale truly has been a group effort that continues due to the support of many people. I thank them all.
— Scott Knudsen
ABOVE: Scott and Jennifer at the spring 2013 Parkfairfax Native Plant Sale and the 2023 Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale.
RIGHT: Plant taxis are always available at the Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale.
Lots of work goes into these events. Here Jennifer Pease cleans up after the spring 2023 Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale.
Morningside
PLANT SALE
The Native Plant Sale Grows
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35
When Scott Knudsen opened the first “Parkfairfax Native Plant Sale” on the tennis court parking lot of his Parkfairfax neighborhood in October 2003, he only had help from his wife Jennifer Pease, several Tree Steward friends, and community volunteers. Just five native plant vendors took part in the sale, but it was a huge success— much greater than anyone had expected. Customers and vendors alike were excited by that success and the prospect of a spring sale. Reluctant to commit to the amount of work involved in pulling off the first sale, many volunteers disappeared, but Scott and Jennifer enlisted Susan Crawford, the friend who had first sparked Scott’s interest in native plants, to help. The question was: Could three people pull off a successful sale in May 2004?
Come spring, five vendors were again involved. Scott, Jennifer, and Susan managed a second sale that exceeded the success of the first. Thus began the tradition
of a twice-yearly native plant sale in Alexandria. The Parkfairfax Native Plant Sale was held in the spring and fall from 2004 through the spring of 2014 for a total of 22 sales. The event’s popularity grew and the number of vendors hosted each time reached 16 at the highest point. Many volunteers helped the plant sale grow. But with success comes change. By summer 2014, the sale required a new home, and crowd management became an issue. Scott found the sale a new home at the Church of St. Clement, not far from Parkfairfax. The renamed “Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale” worked better in St. Clement’s parking lot. The arrangement of the vendors’ stalls was more cohesive, and customers confirmed that it was easier to walk around the sale area.
As the popularity of gardening with native plants has grown in the past decade, the number of customers coming to the NANPS has climbed to some 1,200 visitors for spring sales and 800 visitors for fall sales. Although the pandemic shut the sale down for 2020 and the spring of 2021, it also increased people’s awareness of the suburban ecosystem and their gardens’ import-
What You Need to Know About the NANPS
The NANPS is a labor of love, run on a break-even basis by Scott and Jennifer, aided by volunteers who are their friends and Tree Stewards. The event hosts native plant vendors who handle their sales transactions. All vendors are individual businesses, so please do not take plants from one vendor’s booth to another.
Information Tables are located on the grass near the church building. Next to the Information Tables, some members of the Virginia Native Plant Society will have a table where they will answer questions and offer advice about plants. VNPS members will also have free brochures and several nominally priced guides about native plants (typically $5 per guide).
Bathrooms: The Church of St. Clement graciously makes its bathrooms available for cus-
tomers to the native plant sale. To enter the church building, ask a Plant Sale Volunteer at the Information Table to open the Church of St. Clement’s Parish Hall door. Signs will point the way to the bathrooms.
Parking at Christ the King Church will be allowed. The lot has 40 spaces. Although parking is limited close to the sale on Oakcrest Drive, more parking is available farther down on Oakcrest, as well as on Crestwood and Dogwood parallel to Oakcrest.
Plant transportation : Eleven red Radio Flyer wagons labeled Plant Taxis are for everyone’s use. You will find unused wagons at the Taxi Stand by the Plant Sitting Area next to the church. (NOTE: If you bring your own wagon to the sale, please put your name on it! Unlabeled wagons have been known to walk off!)
Park your plants in the Plant Sitting Area while you get your car. There’s a loading zone next to it where you can pull up to load your plants.
Alternative transportation : We will have a Bike Valet parking area next to the Plant Sitting Area. If you cycle to the sale, two plant sitters will watch to ensure your bike is safe. Please bring your bike lock and use it for extra security.
Lost and Found: If you lose something important, text Scott Knudsen at 571-232-0375. You may also find Scott or Jennifer at the sale. Look for the couple wearing the bright orange (for Scott) or bright yellow (for Jennifer) safety vests. Please be aware that any lost plants not left in the Plant Sitting Area will be extremely difficult or impossible to find.
Scott Knudsen and Jennifer Pease receiving the 2024 Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award, with Mayor Justin Wilson at left, Vice Mayor Amy Jackson at right, and many of the volunteers who make the Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale possible. (Photo: Alexandriava.gov) CONTINUED
On September 28, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, 13 vendors from Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia will gather to sell native plants, shrubs, and trees for sun or shade—or both, if that’s what your garden requires—in the parking lot of the Church of St. Clement at 1701 N. Quaker Lane.
Parking during the sale will be allowed at the large parking lot for Christ the King Church across the street at 1801 N. Quaker Lane. Local artist Jim Sheats will provide live music. Admission is free, and all are welcome! For a listing of the vendors and contact info to order plants ahead of time, visit NorthernAlexandriaNativePlantSale.org
As of publication, the following vendors have confirmed:
Bona Terra https://bonaterradc.com/?v=7516fd43adaa Chesapeake Natives https://www.chesapeakenatives.org/sale-dates Go Native Tree Farm https://www.gonativetrees.com/ Goodman LLC Native Plants https://goodman.farm/ Heartwood Nursery https://www.heartwoodnurseryinc.com/ Hill House Farm & Nursery https://www.hillhousenativeplants.com/ Meadowsweet Nursery https://www.meadowsweetnative.com/ Morningside Farm & Nursery https://www.morningsidefarmandnursery.com/
Native Plant Company (Ryan O’Meara) https://nativeplantcompanyllc.com/
https://woodthrushnatives.com/ Yellow House Natives (540) 539-5399
PLANT SALE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38
ant role in it. Books such as the seminal Bringing Nature Home by Douglas Tallamy have dramatically increased public understanding of the need to build natural ecosystems in our yards.
Even today, Scott’s enthusiasm increases as each native plant sale date draws close, prompting him to give more of his “elevator speech” to people he encounters.
“It really comes down to us,” he says. “Everyone likes birds. If you want the native birds, you’ve got to have the native bugs, and if you want the native bugs, you’ve got to have the native plants and trees.” Native landscaping benefits trees, natural areas, our watershed, the Chesapeake Bay, and wildlife ecology. Especially birds, which everyone loves to watch.
Faced with puzzling looks, Knudsen will simplify the concepts further: “Baby birds have to eat the caterpillars! The chickadee is going to put its nest in proximity to the oak
trees. White Oak is the key species” around this region.” Similarly, there is a huge difference between growing native Butterfly weed and non-native Butterfly bush. Both plants attract pollinators, but native Butterfly weed supports all stages of the life cycle of a Monarch butterfly (because the Monarch caterpillar can eat the plant) whereas non-native Butterfly bush supports zero species of butterflies in the earlier stages of life (because caterpillars of no native species of butterflies can eat the plant).
Thanks to Scott Knudsen’s lifelong fascination with trees, Alexandria’s urban trees, natural areas, and wildlife ecology are growing stronger every year. In recognition of their efforts, Scott and Jennifer were awarded the Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award for 2024 by the Del Ray Citizens Association. Don’t miss the Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale!
If anyone has questions about this event, please feel free to call or text Scott Knudsen at 571-232-0375. One can also email Scott at cscottknudsen@gmail.com —please put “native plant sale” or “NANPS” in the subject line if you do.
It was a beautiful day for a plant sale in Parkfairfax, April 2011.
Gardeners at the spring 2023 Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale.
Take a Sunday Stroll and Connect with the Shadows of History
True Tales of Old Alexandria mesmerizes readers with the first story. Henry, a fourteen-year-old boy, is punished by his family for some unknown reason and sent halfway around the planet to a new world. There, he suffered the harsh reality of betrayal. And his life was most likely cut short by a Powhatan warrior’s hatchet. Author Ted Pulliam, as the saying goes, “had me at the beheading.”
facts. For example, in the chapter “Alexandria and the War of 1812”, Pulliam tells a surprising quote from the great compromiser, Henry Clay, during the buildup to the war. “I prefer the troubled ocean of war…to the tangled, putrescent pool of ignominious peace.”
History is one of those subjects that you either love or hate. But if you love history, that love is reinforced with Pulliam’s work. History, after all, as the roots of the word indicate, is for the inquiring mind. One reason some love history is that it is a collection of personal and societal stories interwoven into our lives and helped shape our world. Pulliam’s collection of Alexandria-centric stories is intriguing. Each has an element of excitement, captivating characters, and plot lines that cemented Alexandria’s place in history.
I asked Pulliam about his passion for hidden and unique history in a recent interview. “I have been curious about history in general since my mother took me to York-
town when I was about seven. There, I realized I actually could stand where soldiers once shot at each other in a real battle, and that was fascinating. Much later, when my wife and I moved to Alexandria, I went to work in D.C. from the Braddock Road Metro. I generally knew that Braddock was a British general who was badly defeated by Indians but had no idea why a road and Metro station in Alexandria were named after him. I looked for the answer, which is not particularly hidden— the Carlyle House tells it well. But learning the answer made me curious to know more about the history of Alexandria and the surrounding area,” Pulliam responded.
When reading about General Braddock in True Tales, I connected with my earliest recollection of American History. I was fascinated by the defeat of the invincible Braddock battalion. Spoiler alert: Don’t wear red and beat drums when fighting in the forest. Another noteworthy point of Braddock’s shocking failure was the Colonialists learned that the British war machine was vulnerable and could lose.
History, when told as an unfolding series of stories, has an element of charm to it, especially when filled with kernels of odd or untold
Pulliam responded frankly when I asked why he chose history as his genre. “I had found I was not good at writing fiction, which required me to make up a story, but with history, the story was already there. I only needed to find it,” Pulliam said. And that the author did successfully. Each chapter in True Tales of Old Alexandria plays like an episode in a mini-series.
There are serious chapters that hit on very sensitive issues. In the chapter “The Dark Day of the Black Codes,” the author tells of the callous arrest of a 14-year-old girl, Nancy Jones, a free African American. Jones was thrown into jail using the most severe provision of the codes. Forced to live in squalor and worse, she faced the likelihood that she’d be sold back into slavery. Fortunately, the story ended better for Jones, maybe.
In True Tales, the author creates fascinating reading for Alexandrians to delve deeper into their city’s compelling history through captivating stories. There’s nothing like a Sunday stroll through Old Town, thinking about the noteworthy historical figures who walked these streets.
Pulliam added, “People like stories, and perhaps through reading stories of events and people of the towns and cities where they live, they expand their interest, if they have not already done so, to include historical stories of their state, country, and other countries. This could make their lives richer and make them more knowledgeable and better members of their communities.”
Ted Pulliam retired from the
Review: True Tales of Old Alexandria
Author: Ted Pulliam
Publisher: History Press Reviewed by: Ralph Peluso, Literary Editor Zebra Rating: 5 Stripes Ralph Peluso
at the Bar
09/05/24 Diane Helentjaris Book Event
09/07/24 12-3pm Laura Beers Book Event Sunday, 09/08/24 12-3pm Adam Sikes Book Event Wednesday, 09/11/24 6pm-9pm Ellen Alford Book Event Saturday, 09/21/24 12-3pm NVWC Monthly Book Club Wednesday, 09/25/24 6-9 pm Matthew Becker Book Event Sunday, 09/29/24 6-9 pm
Courtesy photos
Ted Pulliam
Meet Local Author and Presidential Historian Lindsay Chernisky at her New Book Launch
RENOWN PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIAN DR.LINDSAY CHERNISKYTO DISCUSS HER NEW BOOK ON HOW
AMERICA’S SECOND PRESIDENT JOHNADAMS ENSURED SURVIVAL OFTHE NEW REPUBLIC
BY MARY WADLAND
You might know Lindsay Chernisky from the neighborhood. She and her husband, Jake, reside in Del Ray with their ten-and-a-half-yearold rescue dog, John Quincy Dog Adams.
They’ve been locals since 2020. “We love how dog-friendly the neighborhood is, and how walkable. I sometimes go days and days without using a car,” said Chernisky with a laugh. “I also love the coffee shops and the restaurants. It all feels safe and friendly.”
In addition to being a Del Ray dog mom, she’s a pretty famous presidential historian, author, and professional speaker. In fact, her first book was the award-winning The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution.
Her passion for George Washington will greatly benefit her in her new position as Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon. Dr. Chervinsky is one of the nation’s most respected presidential scholars and recently joined the Washington Library after serving as a senior non-residential Fellow at the Center for Presidential History at Southern Methodist University and a historian at the White House Historical Association.
Chernisky’s latest book, Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic, which becomes available on September 5, brings John Adams to life and gives readers more insight into the man than ever before. “Most biographers treat Adams’ presidency as a low point for him,” Chernisky told Zebra. “He lost re-election, he was sandwiched between George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, and his contentious relationship with Jefferson
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and Hamilton did not help. Those two did a lot of public relations work to smear his presidency.”
Chernisky calls Adam straightforward and thinks if he lived today, he’d be a political favorite because he was emotionally transparent, and honest, despite being a bit erratic.
When President Washington announced his retirement in 1796, questions emerged about whether the new nation would survive without Washington at the helm. Experienced statesman John Adams was elected America’s second president, but the problems plaguing the fledging new nation were more significant than he feared.
Adams faced seemingly insurmountable odds as he navigated pandemics, political violence, attacks from foreign powers, threats to freedom of speech and the press, and a hostile cabinet.
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You can find Chernisky’s new work on September 5 anywhere you regularly buy books, and the audiobook will also be available. “I did the narration myself this time around.” It took four days, but despite it being harder than she anticipated, “it was more rewarding than I thought it would be. I’m planning to always do my own audio for any future books I write.”
To meet Dr. Lindsay Chernisky, plan to attend her upcoming book launch for a discussion and book signing at Mount Vernon on Thursday, September 12th at 7:00 PM.
(Registration is required: https:// www.mountvernon.org/plan-yourvisit/calendar/events/ford-evening-book-talk-making-presidency)
Philanthropist, business leader, author, and interviewer David Rubinstein, praises the book, saying, “Those who want to know more about the extraordinary—but often unsung—talents and accomplishments of John Adams should read
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this well-written and thoroughly entertaining book that brings to life the complicated personality and immense talents of our second president.”
Chenisky also regularly writes for public audiences in the Wall Street Journal, Ms. Magazine, The Daily Beast, The Bulwark, Time Magazine, USA Today, CNN, and the Washington Post.
[Editor’s Note: Lindsay Chernisky discovered a nugget of serendipitous trivia when she had her dog’s DNA tested. John Quincy Dog Adams is an American Foxhound. Guess who developed the breed? You guessed it. George Washington!]
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Photo: Lindsay Chernisky
ABOVE: John Quincy Dog Adams shows off his dog-mom’s newest book, Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic
RIGHT: Dr. Lindsay Chernisky.
Photo: George Washington Presidential Library
An All Asian Cast in Signature Theatre’s Soft Power Brings Song and Dance to a Story of Racism in America
Written by
Playwright and Lyricist David Hwang and Composer and Lyricist Jeanine Tesori, Soft Power is a musical reflecting the zeitgeist of the 2016 U.S. presidential election when Hillary Clinton was the expected winner running against Donald Trump. The musical didn’t premiere until Trump was in the White House and the nation wondered what the heck happened.
The story is played out in fantasy couched in political reality. In New York City Chinese American playwright DHH (Steven Eng ) takes a meeting with a successful Chinese American theatre producer, Xūe Xíng (Daniel May). Xíng implores DHH to write a Broadway musical comparable to the King and I DHH, aka David, begs off the absurd context of trying to compare the draconian politics of China with the democratic ideals of
the U.S. They banter about the two countries philoso-
phies – Chinese are dutiful and don’t need democracy claims Xíng. If this sounds confusing, it is, since the
show was written before the outcome of the election then later rewritten. But you’ll soon get the hang of it. Leaving the meeting, David is stabbed in the streets by two MAGA thugs, Bobby Bob (Jonny Lee, Jr. and other roles) and Randy Ray (Eymard Cabling and other roles). Bobby feels badly and tells David he will protect him from further racist attacks. And he does – up to a point.
While in hospital, David imagines a better scenario where Hillary Clinton (the amazing and hilarious, Grace Yoo) comes to him as a lover. Though framed in the politics of that fraught period, the show has its humorous moments as when Hillary gives a stump speech at McDonald’s while giant dancing burger and fries bracket her appearance in the song,
Andrew Cristi (Chief Justice, center) and the cast of Soft Power at Signature Theatre.
Photo by Daniel Rader.
ABOVE CENTER: Grace Yoo (Hillary Clinton) and Daniel May (Xue Xing) in Soft Power at Signature Theatre.
ABOVE: Grace Yoo (Hillary Clinton) in Soft Power at Signature Theatre.
Photo by Daniel Rader
Photo by DJ Corey Photography.
Photo by DJ Corey Photography.
Grace Yoo (Hillary Clinton) in Soft Power at Signature Theatre.
Monsters and Mutants to the Rescue of the Summer Box Office
BY KELLY MACCONOMY
Summer sizzled but not right away at the box office. Memorial Day drops were not flops but not boffo or socko enough to put bodies into theater seats. Come June, the highly anticipated first installment of Kevin Costner’s Horizon took a Kevin’s Gate pitfall pivot to screening on Max, and the Part 2 August drop was delayed indefinitely after box-office sales were lackluster, despite an 11-minute standing ovation at Cannes.
The mouse that roared rode to the rescue somewhat higher in the saddle. Disney’s Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes made $397 million. Inside Out 2 offered a summer slump reprieve after the Pixar pic garnered $1.597 billion. Disney is not only having a banner year but will likely close out 2024 stronger than ever with popular sequel draws from Moana 2 dropping November 27 and Mufasa: The Lion King set to open on December 20.
Even the highly anticipated prequel to George Miller’s post-apocalyptic 2015 Mad Max remix masterpiece, Furiosa , starring Aussie überman Chris Hemsworth and Anya Taylor-Joy, proved to be not as furiously fortunate. It grossed only $50 million domestically. Then along comes the beleaguered anti-hero Wolverine personified by another Down Under hunk, Hugh Jackman. He hitches his claws to the perpetually pithy Dead-
pool aka Wade Wilson, played by a master of deadpan mirth (rivaled only by the incomparable Bill Murray), the Canadian cut-up Ryan Reynolds.
Deadpool and Wolverine released by Marvel Studios to theaters on July 26 has since grossed over a billion dollars, more than last year’s Best Picture Oppenheimer and blockbuster Barbie. The flick made cinematic history as the record-breaking highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. The Disney/20th Century property superseded the $1.14 billion record set by Joker in 2019.
The multiverse may not need saving encore une fois, but the Alien universe is once more imperiled by its déjà-oh-no-not-you-again ravenously internecine, entomologicalesque xenomorphic mas-macho machine. Alien: Romulus ripped into Marvel’s three weeks of supreme box-office dominion, bringing in a hot $41.5 million in its debut weekend. Among the most popular, and lucrative, of the eternal sci-fi franchises along with Star Wars, Star Trek, Terminator, Jurassic Park, Hunger Games, and the granddaddy of them all, Planet of the Apes, Alien is the most terrifyingly terrific.
It all began in 1979 with a simple but effective branding: “In space no one can hear you
Courtesy photos
Sigourney Weaver starred as Ellen Ripley in the original four films of the Alien franchise. Cailee Spaeny (Priscilla) stars as Rain Carradine in the new tweenquel Alien: Romulus.
Original art by Gordon Thomas Frank Alien vs Barbinator may not be the Barbenheimer matchup of 2024. But Alien: Romulus is the second topgrossing debut of the franchise after Prometheus.
Courtesy photos
The Xenomorph now and then: Alien:Romulus’s creature played by Trevor Newlin and the Alien Queen created by Stan Winston for James Cameron’s 1986 Aliens.
WHAT'S ONSTAGE IN THE DMV IN SEPTEMBER 2024
• DC Theatre Week – September 26 –October 13. For event registration and information on this popular annual event, where tickets range from $20 to $60 for over 30 theater productions, visit TheatreWeek.org
• The Explorer’s Club – The Little Theatre of Alexandria – August 31 – September 21 – TheLittleTheatre.com
• Night Sky – Aldersgate Theatre – September 27 – October 13 – ACCTonline.org
• MJ – Broadway at the National – Aug 13 –September 8 – TheNationalDC.com
• OVO – Cirque du Soleil – September 11 –September 15 – CirqueduSoleil.com/OVO
• A Comedy of Errors – Shakespeare Theatre Company – September 10 – October 6 – ShakespeareTheatre.org
• Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground –Olney Theatre – September 27 – October 20 – OlneyTheatre.org
• The Waverley Gallery – 1st Stage – September 1 – October 6 – 1stStage.org
• Jaja’s African Hair Braiding – Arena Stage – September 6 – October 13 – ArenaStage.org
• How to Be a Korean Woman – Theatre J – September 12 – 22 – TheatreJ.org
• Las 22 bodas de Hugo – The 22+ Weddings of Hugo – GALA Theatre – September 5 – 29 – GALATheatre.org
By Jordan Wright
• Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill –MosaicTheater.org – September 5 – October 6
• Post Mortem – September 8 – September 12 – MosaicTheater.org
• Oh My Heart, Oh My Home – StudioTheatre.org – September 6 – September 27
• Exception to the Rule – September 18 –October 27 – StudioTheatre.org
• Mr. Lincoln – Ford’s Theatre – September 20 – October 13 – Fords.org
• The Sojourners – Roundhouse Theatre – September 11 – October 6 – RoundhouseTheatre.org
• & Juliet – Hippodrome Baltimore – September 22 – September 28 – Baltimore. Broadway.com
• The Riot Grrrls Present - The Tragedie of Macbeth – Taffety Punk – September 25 – October 12 - TaffetyPunk.com
• Winnie the Pooh – Imagination Stage –September 18 – October 27 – ImaginationStage.org
• Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors –Workhouse Arts Center – September 6 –October 27 – WorkhouseArts.org
Fifty and Fabulous: A Half Century of Making Alexandria an Art Mecca
BY KELLY MACCONOMY
This has been a year of significant celebration in Port City. In July the City gathered together to commemorate the 275th anniversary of Alexandria’s founding in 1749. This month the Office of the Arts and the Torpedo Factory Artists Association mark 50 years since the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s (TFAC) founding with a kick-off weekend-long party September 13-15.
In 1973, as the nation was focused on the upcoming bicentennial party of all parties, president of The Art League Marian Van Landingham had her sights on the abandoned, deteriorating former munitions factory on what is now a prime waterfront location to house the growing Art League nonprofit. On July 13, 1974, the Alexandria Bicentennial Commission announced that the building would be reopening as an art center. Two months later to the day, on September 13, 1974, the art center and studio doors opened to the public.
Back in the early 1970’s lower King Street was more Dodge City than the quaint and genteel Old Town enjoyed today. Renovation of the now 105-year-old torpedo factory proved to be a timely opportunity for both the Art League to expand and the City to clean up the riverfront in anticipation of the coast-to-coast 200th birthday party for America in 1976.
Renovations were largely DIY. Of the 142 studio artists occu-
pying the building in 1974, most had pitched in to help, picking up paintbrushes to put color to walls, not canvas or paper. Studio rents then and now are offered at a below-market rate. The City assumed management of the landmark art center in 2018 with studio availability determined by a jurying se-
be partying on this month: The Scope Gallery is a TFAC founding exhibiting space showcasing fine art and functional and sculptural ceramics for 50 years.
Printmakers Inc., one of the DMV’s oldest nonprofit art gallery/studio spaces, has curated a 50th Anniversary exhibit called “A Half Century of Printmaking.” The studio hosts vastly talented makers of various techniques and styles including relief, reduction, woodblock, etching, monotone, silkscreen, and lithography, such as Veronica Barker-Barzel Kelly, Marcus Beauregard, Judith Coady, Pamela Day, Jennifer Dunbar, Avis Fleming, John Gosling, Edward McCluney, Claire Meyer, Patrick Sargent, and Priscilla Young. The artwork will be on display from September 1 - 30.
Target Gallery ~ Acoustic Invasion: A New Soundscape of Reshaped Nature continues at the contemporary space of the Torpedo Factory Art Center. This interactive exhibit presented by the Alexandria Office of the Arts and Virginia Tech’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology remains on exhibit through September 29, 2024.
lection process. The Torpedo Factory Artists Association is going strong, representing the interests of the member artists while promoting the art center at large.
At present the TFAC welcomes over half a million visitors each year. Here are some ways the eclectic working artist studios will
Be sure to visit the Exposures Gallery, showcasing outstanding photographic art on the second floor.
On September 13-15 the City will celebrate Marian Van Landingham’s vision for the Torpedo Factory Art Center as a premier
Photos: The Torpedo Factory Art Center
Opening day of the Torpedo Factory Art Center on September 13, 1974, and the art center’s working artists today.
Photo Nepenthe Gallery
Artist and Von Brahler, Ltd. gallery owner Robert Murray and Steven Halperson of Tisara Photography enjoy a reception for Alexandria artist Andreas Barrett at Nepenthe’s ART + WINE + CHEESE event.
Fine Art Gallery and Custom Framing Hollin Hall * Old Town Woodland Skyscape by EVE STOCKTON Woodcut
SEPTEMBER 7
Fall Plant and Garden Sale
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
Shop for fall annuals and perennials, trees, and shrubs grown at Mount Vernon, many native to Virginia. Members receive a 10% discount.
SEPTEMBER 7
Civil War Hospital Tour
2:00 pm-3:15 pm
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden
614 Oronoco St.
Learn how the Lee-Fendall House was confiscated during the Civil War and operated as a Union Army hospital. Explore what life was like in Union-occupied Alexandria, how the Lee-Fendall House witnessed medical history, and how political divisions impacted those living here. Tickets are $15 to the general public and free for museum members. The tour is limited to 12 participants.
SEPTEMBER 8
George Washington Patriot Run
7:00 am-12:00 pm
Race along the George Washington Memorial Parkway and finish with the Mansion in view at this 5k/10-mile race. There will be a pre-race warmup prior to the start of both races provided by VIDA Fitness. 10-Mile race starts at 7:15 am., 5K race starts at 7:30 am.
The racecourse includes both lanes of a 5-mile stretch of the George Washington Parkway from the GW Parkway Circle to W. Boulevard Drive. The Finish Festival offers music, food and beverage concessions, and a free beer for each runner. Concessions will be available for purchase at the Mount Vernon Food Truck.
SEPTEMBER 13
The Untold Stories of Lee-Fendall House Residents and Their Resting Places
7:00 pm-8:15 pm
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden 614 Oronoco St.
SEPTEMBER 7
Candlelight Vigil and Wreath Laying at Freedmen’s Cemetery 8:00 pm (shuttle service from Lee Center starting at 7:30 pm) Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial 1001 S. Washington Street
The City of Alexandria invites the public to participate in the tenth anniversary of the dedication of the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial. This year’s remembrance will honor the late Lillie Frinklea and her work with her friend Louise Massoud to create the Friends of Freedmen’s Cemetery. The event is free. To learn more about the vigil and other associated events on Sept. 6 -7, visit alexandriava.gov/historic. To purchase tickets for the Bus Tour of Pre-Civil Era Historic African American Churches and Sites of Alexandria (September 6), 10th Anniversary Luncheon (September 7), or the Bus Tour to Arlington House (September 7), visit: https://shop.alexandriava.gov/ EventsvisitÂhttps://www.alexandriava.gov/FreedmenMemorial.
SEPTEMBER 8
Call for Strikes: American Labor in the 20th Century 2:00 pm-3:15 pm
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden 614 Oronoco St.
From deadly mine explosions to wartime strikes, the history of the 20th century American labor movement is full of violence and controversy. Explore the struggle for worker’s rights at the home of one of its most powerful spokesmen, John L. Lewis. Tickets are $10 for the general public and free for current museum members. The tour is limited to 12 participants.
Built in 1785 by Philip Richard Fendall
I, the Lee-Fendall House has been home to many influential families whose lives and legacies have significantly shaped Alexandria’s history. This lecture will delve into the lesser-known stories of the Fendalls, Lees, Cazenoves, Flemings, Downhams, and others who resided in this storied house. Discover their contributions to early American history, their experiences during the Civil War, and their final resting places. This lecture, illustrated with rare photographs and documents, offers a unique opportunity to connect Alexandria’s past with its present, highlighting the enduring impact of these historical figures on our community today. Tickets are $10 to the general public and free for museum members.
SEPTEMBER 14
A World War II Walking Tour of Alexandria
10:30 am-12:00 pm
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden 614 Oronoco St.
Alexandria was a bustling town during the Second World War filled with servicemen and women and civilians contributing to the war effort. On this two-mile walk around Old Town, visit sites where history took place and buildings where notable Alexandrians, including a Tuskegee Airman and a member of the 101st Airborne, lived before serving their country. In addition, learn of the top-secret intelligence facility known as P.O. Box 1142. Walking shoes and water are highly recommended.Tickets are $15 per person and free for museum members.
SEPTEMBER 14-15
Colonial Market and Fair
George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
Step back in time and shop a marketplace with food and wares made by colonial artisans. Hear live music from the colonial era, play 18th-century
CONTINUED ON PAGE 47
games, and watch as expert artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques. Included in daytime admission; free for members.
SEPTEMBER 14
Muster Friendship and Firefighting in Alexandria
9:00 am-2:00 pm
Friendship Firehouse Museum 107 S. Alfred St.
Join a muster of over 15 antique, handdrawn firefighting apparatus to honor the 250th anniversary of the Friendship Firehouse! Participating vehicles will include 19th-century suction fire engines and hose reel carriages. Free
SEPTEMBER 14
Story Time for Little Historians
10:00 am-10:45 am
Alexandria Black History Museum 902 Wythe St.
Dynamic storytellers use books written by and about African American people and other communities of color to engage with ages 5-8. Free
SEPTEMBER 14-15
22nd Annual Alexandria Art Festival 10:00 am-5:00 pm
John Carlyle Square
300 John Carlyle St.
Enjoy a variety of art at the festival. All artwork is juried, which provides a higher level of quality, diversity, and creativity of art on display, exemplifying the gifted artists in regions from all over the country. The show is rated as one of the top 100 art shows in Sunshine Artist Magazine.
SEPTEMBER 14
Liberation of Paris Garden Party
6:00 pm-9:30 pm
Lloyd House
220 N. Washington St.
Celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Paris at a festive garden party hosted by the British Officers Club, Washington, DC, and the Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee. Enjoy swing music, dancing, delicious food, and a cash bar. 1940s attire welcome. Tickets can be purchased at Eventbrite Liberation of Paris $75
SEPTEMBER 15
Alexandria Fire History Symposium
10:00 am-3:00 pm
George Washington Masonic National Memorial 101 Callahan Drive
SEPTEMBER 20
Tavern Games Night: Rum Edition 7:00 pm- 9:30 pm
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St.
It’s National Rum Punch Day! To celebrate, play tavern games and enjoy traditional rum punch, a popular tavern drink. Includes brief presentations about tavern entertainments and group games. Cash bar. $10
SEPTEMBER 21
Sensory-Friendly Family Morning 8:00 am-9:00 am
George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy Mount Vernon invites neurodivergent individuals and their families to join us for a sensory-friendly morning and tour. Discounted admission
Mark the 250th anniversary of the Friendship Fire Company and join the Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association for the Alexandria Fire History Symposium. From three panels of firefighting history specialists will discuss Alexandria’s early and more recent firefighting history. Topics are: The Great Fires, Remembering Those Who Served, and Responding to Terror. Free with prior registration requested. To register, please contact Jim McClellan at jimmiermcclellan@ gmail.com by September 10th. For more details visit AlexandriaVa.gov/Historic. Free
SEPTEMBER 21
Classic Car Show
10:00 am-1:00 pm
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
201 S. Washington St.
Join us in the parking lot of the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum for a classic car show featuring a variety
of ‘orphan’ vehicles. This show will bring together cars that are no longer manufactured, hence the term orphans and is scheduled to include cars made by Packard, Hudson, MG, Nash, Pontiac, and more. The show is co-sponsored by Packards Virginia and the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum. For more information, visit packardsva.org. Free
SEPTEMBER 21
82nd Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour
10:00 am-3:00 pm
The Twig
106 N. Columbus St.
Since 1997, The Twig has hosted the Homes Tour offering a self-guided walking tour of beautiful homes and gardens in Old Town Alexandria. The Tour, which began in 1941, was originally hosted by the Hospital’s Senior Auxiliary to raise money for the Hospital. Home highlights often include original and preserved structures, curated artwork, and historical collections. The tour also offers guests an opportunity to enjoy Virginia’s lovely autumn weather and the sites of Old Town as they walk from home to home.
SEPTEMBER 21
ACRP Screening: Resolved: Never Again
5:30 pm-8:30 pm
George Washington National Masonic Memorial
101 Callahan Dr.
The Alexandria Community Remembrance Project (ACRP) will debut a documentary film titled: Resolved: Never Again. Filmmaker Robin Hamilton explores the port city’s involvement in slavery and the domestic slave trade until the Civil War, an era followed by decades of racial terror when the lynchings of Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas took place. The documentary also examines how Alexandria has been confronting parts of this past since 2019. The evening opens at 5:30 with a Fundraising Reception where you can
meet Filmmaker Robin Hamilton and individuals featured in the documentary. At 6:30 pm, the Theater doors open, film screening fro 7:00-8:30 pm followed by a panel discussion. All proceeds from this event support the work of the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project.
SEPTEMBER 25
Founding Debates
7:00 pm-8:30 pm
George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
A panel of speakers, including General Stanley McChrystal, will explore five goals for democratic renewal: (1) civic learning, (2) service and volunteering, (3) bridging divides, (4) trusted elections and responsive governance, and (5) trusted news information. Hear how we can revitalize our democracy and advance these five foundational democracy goals. Free
SEPTEMBER 28
Blessing of the Animals
9:00 am
Trinity United Methodist Church Courtyard 2911 Cameron Mills Rd.
All creatures great and small are invited to be individually blessed. Each pet
SEPTEMBER 28
Old Town Alexandria
Oktoberfest – Prost to a Day of Bavarian Delights!
11:00 am-6:00 pm
John Carlyle Square
300 John Carlyle St.
Enjoy a festive Oktoberfest celebration in the heart of Old Town Alexandria!
Get ready for a day filled with traditional music, lively entertainment, a beer garden, shopping, and the unmistakable spirit of Bavarian merriment. Free
receives a certificate with their name in calligraphy by artist, Ellan Moore. Bring a picture of pets unable to attend or memorials. Dog treats and water are provided. Questions, text 703-408-4008.
SEPTEMBER 29
Chalk-A-Block 11:00 am-4:00 pm
Sites throughout Old Town North 533 Montgomery St.
SEPTEMBER 21
Tons of Trucks
10:00 am-2:00 pm
(Sensory-friendly hour: 10:00 am-11:00 am)
Chinquapin Park 3210 King St.
All ages are invited to explore and get behind the wheel of their favorite City vehicles, meet the staff who help build, maintain, serve, and protect the community, and learn about the vehicles they use. Other activities include an art project with the City’s Mobile Art Lab, giveaways, photo opportunities, and food truck vendors. Parking is available at Alexandria City High School (3330 King St.), the First Baptist Church (2932 King St.), and Oakland Baptist Church (3408 King St.). Free
Join the Old Town North Alliance for the Inaugural Chalk-A-Block at various locations throughout the Old Town North neighborhood. Chalk-A-Block will combine the Chalk Walks and Art Blocks from years past into one great event! Old Town North will come to life with chalk artists, local artists/ makers selling their work, and opportunities for kids to join in and make chalk art of their own. A scavenger hunt with prizes and live music will add to the fun! Pick up your scavenger hunt sheet at any of the sites and work your way around!
OCTOBER 4-6
Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour 6:00 pm-9:00 pm
George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy Taste unlimited samples from Virginia wineries and enjoy the sunset over the Potomac River after hours at George Washington’s estate. Bring a blanket or reserve a VIP table and relax on the east lawn. Hear live music by Bruce Ewan and the Solid Senders, and enjoy concessions available for purchase from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. Please note that the Mansion will be closed during this event.
working artists space welcoming to all. Don’t miss the Van Landingham Gallery in Studio 311 at the top of the stairs on the thirdfloor gallery where Marian has a studio.
* The Art League Gallery of the TFAC ~ Wit and Whimsy is the title of the new September show on exhibit through October 6, 2024. Juried by Elissa Armstrong, the exhibit spotlights elements of humor, mischief, kitsch, and playfulness. The Art on the Rocks event returns September 26 from 6-8:30 pm at the new Hotel Heron, where artwork selected by participating restaurants is exhibited and paired with artisanal craft cocktails inspired by the artwork.
Always diverting and chock full of temptations for yourself or artful gift giving, the Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery in Studio 29 on the first floor of the TFAC offers jewelry, wall art, wearables, and home furnishings of every conceivable source of fiber, including silver and gold. A purchase perfectly fitting for a 50th anniversary pARTay!
ON EXHIBIT ELSEWHERE ACROSS THE CITY
* The Athenaeum ~ Fleeting Moments: Street Photography II continues through September. Nina Tisara, the Zebra’s Memories and Musings columnist, an Alexandria Living Legend, and photographer/ mosaicist, has a photograph on exhibit in this showcase of savvy street photography.
* The Art League Gallery of the TFAC ~ Wit and Whimsy is the title of the new September showon exhibit through October 6, 2024 . Juried by Elissa Armstrong, the exhibit spotlights elements of humor, mischief, kitsch, and playfulness. The Art on the
Rocks event returns September 26. Artwork selected by participating restaurants is exhibited paired with artisanal craft cocktails inspired by the artwork.
* -Del Ray Artisans ~ Fascinating Fiber, Alluring Fabric is the new exhibit at Del Ray’s only art space, on view through September 28, 2024. Fiber is represented in all media including jewelry, photography, and other two-dimensional artwork. Curators Liz Martinez and Robyn McGarry have selected an expansive range of truly fascinating artistic explorations using fabric and fiber. Award-winning artwork will be selected by Judy Gula, owner of the fabulous fabric source and quilters mecca Artistic Artifacts. There is a sneak-peak preview during First Thursday in Del Ray on 9/5 when the gallery is open until 9pm.
Don’t miss the third annual family-friendly HalloWEIRD Art Market held in the Artists Garden of the DRA Gallery on September 21 - rain or shine. Shop for original art and crafts created for the autumnal and Trick-or-Treating season.
* There’s more street art to be discovered at Galac-
tic Panther ~ “Symbols” by the international secretive street artist artist Mr. Popcorn explores the fascinating visual language of symbolic text: punctuation, tags, calligraphy, and typography. The nine Symbols paintings are on exhibit through October 13, 2024.
Nepenthe Gallery has been busy since their brief vacay in early August. ART + WINE + CHEESE is back for September each Thursday from 6 to 7:30pm at both gallery locations.
* September 5 at Nepenthe Hollin Hall: Artwork by Willem de Kooning.
* September 13, Nepenthe Old Town (upstairs at the Wine Gallery), 108 North St. Asaph Street: Alexandria author John Adam Wascowicz will sign his 7th novel in a series based in Alexandria, Spite House. The spite house that inspired the novel is just around the corner.
* September 19 at Hollin Hall: Original oil and acrylic abstractions by Matt Brown that utilize expressions of color, form, light, and texture to evoke an emotional response.
* September 25 at Hollin Hall: Alexandria artist Eve Stockton brings her striking science-based large scale
woodcut prints to Nepenthe. Her deft expressions of abstraction of the natural
Photo: Del Ray Artisans
Fascinating Fiber, Alluring Fabric is the new exhibit on view at Del Ray Artisans. The art of curators Liz Martinez (left) and Robyn McGarry (right) will delight the most material girl and guy in three and two dimensions.
Photos: Nepenthe Gallery Nepenthe Gallery Hollin Hall exhibits the abstractions of Matt Brown (Sept. 19) and the oversized woodblock prints of Alexandria artist Eve Stockton (Sept. 26).
Photo: Printmakers, Inc.
Printmakers, Inc. celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Torpedo Factory, exhibiting selected works from member-artists and a soirée on September 13 from 6-10pm.
Save the Date: Swing for Pink is October 5
ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR INOVA’S BREAST CARE INSTITUTE FEATURES PICKLEBALL, ROUND ROBINTENNIS,SOCIAL MIXER,SILENTAUCTION,AND 50/50 RAFFLE.
BY SUSAN MULLIGAN FLEISCHMAN
Now in its 19th year, Swing for Pink will host its annual fundraiser on Saturday, October 5, at the Burke Racquet and Swim Club (BRSC). This year’s event will include round robin tennis and pickleball, a social mixer with light food, silent auction, and a 50/50 raffle.
All donations are tax deductible and benefit patients of the Breast Care Institute at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital and the Joseph Viar and Bonnie Christ Cancer Center at Inova Alexandria Hospital.
Since 2006, Swing for Pink has raised more than $266,700 to support patients within our community. The mission began at the former Mt. Vernon Athletic Club in honor of fellow tennis club members afflicted with breast cancer. The event has evolved into a fun social evening where tennis and pickleball players are joined by individuals from the community to give back, share their blessings, and band together to support those who are battling breast cancer.
Patients at Inova Mt. Vernon and Alexandria Hospitals have access to the full spectrum of cancer care, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Patients also benefit from dietary, emotional and support services that include individual and family psychosocial assessments, counseling, education, referrals,
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several categories, including robots and flying contraptions.
The National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum, located just inside the USPTO Atrium, welcomed the kids,
due to treatments and the side effects. Lost wages make it difficult or impossible to pay for housing and transportation. Donations to the Inova Health Foundation also assist patients with rent/mortgage payments, utilities, car payments, and transportation vouchers.
Visit the Swing for Pink website swingforpinkmtvac.wordpress.com/ to donate, sponsor, get more details, or register. If you would like to volunteer or have questions about the event, please email Deb Oelschlager via the
support groups and discharge planning.
Breast cancer takes a toll beyond the medical condition and treatment, not to mention the medical bills, and that’s where your fundraising donations really make an impact. Breast cancer patients often have to miss work
their leaders, family, and friends to participate in several of the interactive exhibits. One of the visitors accompanying his granddaughter surprised museum associates by pointing out the invention of his grandfather, James A. Parsons, an inventor whose portrait is displayed in the museum. Parsons’ inven-
tion, a steel formulation known as the Durimet Alloy 2.0, was featured in the museum with hundreds of other innovative inventors and their stories.
Special guests were United States Marine Corps Lieutenant Paige Thomas and her daughter Paisley, who walks with the help of artificial limbs. They were
able to share Paisley’s journey and educate attendees on prosthetic devices and other tools to help those with different abilities thrive.
Regional Outreach Director Elizabeth Dougherty spoke to some YMCA Directors, Leaders, and Board Members. She expressed her gratitude to them by
During September and October, Yates Automotive will donate two cents a gallon to ALIVE!
saying, “At the end of the day, not only will we have helped children build important cognitive and analytical skills, but we’ll have inspired the next generation of great problem solvers to take their next step.”
For more information on YMCA programs, go to YMCA ymcadc.org
Photos courtesy of Swing for Pink
ABOVE: Event co-chair Deb Oelschlager gives opening remarks to start Swing for Pink 2023.
RIGHT: Swing for Pink co-chairs Sharon Timmons and Deb Oelschlager present Matthew Higgins, associate director of philanthropy for Inova Schar Institute, with a check after the 2023 event.
317 E Braddock Rd.
Scan to learn more about the Yates Charitable
Join the Board and/or a Committee of a Nonprofit
(VOLUNTEERALEXANDRIA.ORG/BOARDSERVICE)
Wilderness Kids is an organization that brings nature to urban students. They are looking for a few board members to attend meetings, assist with events, and help raise funds.
Computer C.O.R.E. seeks board candidates motivated by a passion for education, access, and opportunity with one or more of the following skillsets: Nonprofit Accounting/Finance; Fundraising; IT; Com-
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
IN AND AROUND ALEXANDRIA
Are you not sure where to find a volunteer opportunity for you, your family, and/or business? Volunteer Alexandria (VolALX) is your volunteer center, connecting people to causes since 1980. Every day, nonprofit organizations seek skilled and un-skilled volunteers to help them fulfill their mission. The list of opportunities includes a variety of options from mentoring and providing legal assistance to providing emotional support over the phone and being a board and committee member. Activities can be short and long term, from 1 hour to 4 hours. We are certain there is something for everyone.
Check out volunteer opportuni ties online: VolunteerAlexandria.org or scan this QR code: Or you can visit us at the Volunteer Fair on Saturday, September 7, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and meet some of the great nonprofits in Alexandria.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
• Cover Front Desk at Child-based Nonprofit -- Help with administrative duties, support caseworkers and maintain the emergency clothing closet at the Center for Alexandria’s Children.
• Console People in their time of need -- Haven of Northern Virginia is training people to provide emotional support over the phone for individuals who are grieving, seriously ill, or grieving.
• Tutor Middle or High School Students -- Tutor middle or high school students during after-school hours for 3 days a week at Casa Chirilagua and help with their academic and personal growth. Orientation is required.
• Prepare Young Adults for the Workforce -Help prepare young adults for the workforce and life as a Life Skills Teaching Assistant for the Alexandria Seaport Foundation. The assistant helps with lesson planning and workforce development.
munications/Social Media; Education; Legal/Compliance; Strategic Planning; and Human Resources/Culture Building.
The Children and Families Network Center -- This committee oversees CFNC’s fundraising efforts, donor relations, and communication strategies. Responsibilities include developing fundraising plans, cultivating relationships with donors, and creating marketing materials. The primary focus of this committee is on engaging individual donors.
Did You KNOW?
Board service can help individuals expand their professional networks, gain exposure to new industries, and sharpen their skills. It can also help them develop a broader perspective and learn to see issues from a board-level perspective. This can help individuals elevate their reputation and strengthen their personal brand, which can be important for career advancement.
Chamber ALX Honors Alexandria Community Champions
On August 6, The Chamber ALX held the 2024 Community Champions Honors, presented by Inova Health System. Honorees, families, friends, and co-workers attended the ceremony to celebrate the above and beyond service of Alexandria’s workface. In addition to the Chamber’s four-decades long recognition of first responders, additional honors were awarded to 6 industries of essential workers: educators, government employees, hospitality workers, medical professionals, senior providers, and utility employees. The event was held at National Industries for the Blind’s headquarters in Potomac Yard. Honorees are nominated by their peers for outstanding service in their respective fields.
New Honorees for 2024:
• Educator of the Year: Tiffany Lee-Clarke of Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School
• Government Employee of the Year: Rick Myllenbeck of National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
• Hospitality Employee of the Year: Justin Fox of Port City Brewing Company
• Medical Professional of the Year: Udeme Ekong of Alexandria Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
• Senior Provider of the Year: Myong “Bruce” Park of Woodbine Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
• Utility Employee of the Year: Peter Kulcsar of Virginia American Water
Life Saving Award recipients
• Master Deputy James Gwaltney of Alexandria Sheriff’s Office
• Captain Patrick Evans of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter Blake Jones of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter Scott Springston of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter Isaac May of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter Moriah Anderson of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter Francis Penny of Alexandria Fire Department
• Paramedic Remi Howell of Alexandria Fire Department
Firefighter & EMT Will Augustine of Alexandria Fire Department
• Captain Joshua Turner of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter & Paramedic Johnathan Malia of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter & EMT Kristina Holt of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter & EMT Luis Vasquez of Alexandria Fire Department
• Firefighter De’Angelo Bowman of Alexandria Fire Department
• Officer Erik Elam Alexandria Police Department
• Officer Helsa Elam of Alexandria Police Department
• Officer William Griscom of Alexandria Police Department
• Sergeant Ben Saks of Alexandria Police Department
• Public Safety Communications Officer Calvin Moore of Department of Emergency & Customer Communications
For details about the event and a list of sponsoring businesses, visit thechamberalx.com.
Fire Department Honors Kristian Holt & Blake Jones.
Educator of the Year recipient Tiffany Lee-Clark stand at the podium.
Senior Provider of the Year, Myong Park of Woodbine Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center stands at the podium with his award.
Hospitality Employee of the Year, Justin Fox of Port City Brewing Company, addresses the audience.
ACPD Live Saving Award recipient Erik Elam addresses the audience.
L-R: Chamber Board Member Jatrice Martel Gaiter of Volunteers of America, Medical Professional of the Year Honoree Udeme Ekong of Alexandria Rehabiltiation & Healthcare Center, Chamber CEO Joe Haggerty.
Inova Alexandria Hospital’s President Dr. Rina Bansal applauds this year’s honorees.
Honorees Officers Helsa & Erik Elam smile while looking at the event program.
The Virginia American Water Team smiles with their team member Peter Kulcsar (center,) recipient of Utility Employee of the Year.
• Marine Corps’ Long Term Assistance Program: (866) 210-3421
• Navy Gold Star Program: (888) 509-8759
Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) also can provide help or guidance. The American Legion Post 24 VSOs host quarterly veteran claims clinics at the Post
home at 400 Cameron St in Old Town. The next clinic is Saturday, September 14, at 9 am, and will include a men’s health information session. Drop in or email them at VSO24@outlook.com.
If you are a veteran, a veteran’s family member, or know a veteran who needs help, go to Virginia Board Veterans Services at www.dvs.virginia. gov/dvs; dss.virginia.gov/ community/211.cgi; contact American Legion Post 24 Veteran Service Officer at VSO24@outlook.com; or check out the Resources List on the Post 24 website: valegionpost24.com. For crisis intervention and suicide prevention services, dial 988 and Press 1, or text 838255 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
ART NEWS
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compelling.
Principle Gallery presents Catharsis - Wild Heart, curated by and featuring
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General Counsel’s office in the Department of Energy, where he drafted energy program regulations and bills. Pulliam has written articles for Legal Times, WWII History magazine, American History magazine, the Washington Post, and several other publications. He authored Historic Alexandria: An Illustrated History Pulliam is a member of the Alexandria Archaeological Commission and the Alexandria African Heritage Trail Committee and is a past member of the Board of the Alexandria Histori-
Anna Wypych featuring the dynamically diverse work of 24 artists. An opening reception at the King Street gallery will be September 13 from 7-8:30pm. The exhibition closes October 7.
cal Society and the Alexandria Waterfront Commission. He received an award by the Historical Society for “especially noteworthy contributions.” Ted is a graduate of Davidson College and Columbia University Law School. He lives in the Del Ray part of Alexandria.
The streets of Alexandria are charming, but they have also borne witness to events and individuals that have created its cumulative history. These are true tales for everyone to enjoy. After you’ve read True Tales of Old Alexandria , take a casual stroll through Old Town and connect with its past. A solid Zebra rating of 5 stripes.
Photo: Principle Gallery
Painting by Marissa Oosterleee, part of the Catharsis - Wild Heart exhibit at the Principle Gallery- curated by and featuring the art of Anna Wypych.
Erik Johnson Is New ARHA CEO
BY KEVIN DAURAY
Erik Johnson, a former leader of housing development in Connecticut, has been named the new CEO of the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA). He starts this month, following interim CEO Rickie Maddox and previous CEO Keith Pettigrew.
“I am honored to serve as CEO,” Johnson said in an ARHA press release. “I plan to build on the successes of Keith Pettigrew and Rickie Maddox to move ARHA into an even greater position to serve our residents. I look forward to helping ARHA bring more affordable housing to Alexandria.”
Prior to taking the job, Johnson worked in Hamden, CT as Director of Economic and Community Development. He also led Hartford’s housing development.
The ARHA’s purpose us to manage Alexandria’s public housing units. For more than 80 years, the organization, according to its website, “provided affordable housing, economic opportunities and a living environment free from discrimination for low income and moderate income citizens.” Over the next five years, ARHA plans to become a leader in the industry model mixed income communities. They also want to improve the quality of life for ARHA’s residents.
scream.” There’s been an incalculable amount of screaming on screen and in theater seating over 45 years. Ironically that’s nearly the amount of time that Ripley was drifting in space before her shuttle was picked up by a salvage crew in the opening of James Cameron’s Aliens.
There are now seven official Alien films in the franchise, with two Alien vs. Predator spinoffs, which we don’t all count even if there’s a xenomorph protagonist. In the current pecking order, At Z MovieZ ranks Romulus at the top with Aliens and Ridley Scott’s space-horror masterpiece, the original Alien Scott also directed the two eminently watchable prequels Prometheus and Covenant, and produced Romulus.
Scott sure can cast - and, of course, direct. Who doesn’t admire the feminist empowerment of Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Rip-
Need to Relax? Book an Appointment at Salon Kate & Spa!
Salon Kate & Spa is run by Kate (Chong) Walters, a dedicated beauty stylist with over 30 years in the industry. Ms. Kate has had the pleasure of hosting clients in the Montgomery Center for the last six years, and she is thrilled to now welcome you to her new location at 1064 N Fayette Street, in Alexandria ! Kate and her experienced team offer:
• a range of beauty ser-
vices for hair, nails and more – all conveniently under one roof
• a top-notch, extensive line of luxurious products and affordable services
• a sleek new tranquil space that is sure to help anyone relax
To book an appoint-ment with Salon Kate & Spa, please call (703) 836-8367 or visit the website to book online: salonkatespa.com.
ley? And Michael Fassbender’s personification of good versus evil via David/Walter’s emerging humanity- and inhumanity - in Covenant is mesmerizing.
Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Alvarez (Don’t Breathe, Evil Dead, The Girl in the Spider’s Web, Chainsaw Massacre 2022), stands on its
own amid some seriously heavyweight filmmaking. The story returns to a time between the events of Alien and Aliens. The cast is all savvy and sexy newcomers, giving it a nostalgic feel without actually being retrospective. The music adds to that feel with references to the scores of
We are pleased to offer new customers and our dear returning clients an extra one-time special service at their appointment.
We also invite the community to attend our Grand Re-Opening Party scheduled for Saturday, September 14, from 1 to 3pm. Stop by for hors d’oeuvres, gift bags, and a raffle for a chance to win free spa services!
Aliens and Prometheus. New to the franchise is Trevor Newman as the Xenomoprh replacing the special effects monsters brilliantly created by Arlington’s own - the late, great Stan Winston. Winston, winner of four Oscars, is known for his work on Aliens, Predator, Terminator 2: Judgement Day, Jurassic Park, Iron Man, and Edward Scissorhands There’s a plaque honoring Winston in the auditorium of his alma mater, Washington-Lee High School, now Washington-Liberty, in Arlington. No spoilers. But be warned: In space and a theater near you, they CAN hear you scream. It’s a whole multiverse scarier in IMAX Dolby. If you’re afraid of the dark but have a dark and dirty sense of humor, and looking for a relatively happy ending, I recommend Deadpool and Wolverine. Otherwise, if mutants and monsters aren’t your cup of fear, Michael Keaton returns as the incorrigibly undead huckster Beetlejuice in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, opening September 6. Tell him Wade Wilson sent you.
Photo courtesy ARHA
Erik Johnson
Courtesy of Salon Kate
Courtesy photo
Summer 2024’s Über Blockbuster: Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman star as an unlikely buddy matchup in Deadpool and Wolverine
Casa Chirilagua
Mother of Light Center Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary
BY AMANDA MERI
The Mother of Light Center (MOLC) opened its doors five years ago with a mission to feed, clothe, support, encourage, and nurture those in need in its Arlandria neighborhood. The growth is exponential! MOLC – staffed solely by volunteers – now delivers food to roughly 4,000 people a month, including 1,600 children and 100s of labor workers. The Center is open six days a week. MOLC also gives clothing, furniture, household items, and baby baskets.
The MOLC gives so much more than food and clothing! Together, under the leadership of David Yee at St. Stephen & St. Agnes School, MOLC operates an afterschool program called “Escuelita” for children ages 5 to 12. The program focuses on English literacy and STEM.
The MOLC Come and See Club supports at-risk teens with stress management, career planning, and coaching.
The MOLC Internship Program provides training and mentoring opportunities to select candidates. MOLC’s first intern, Krissia Rodriguez, just started college at William and Mary with a full scholarship. Congratulations Krissia!
The MOLC Mothers of Saint Anne provides a nurturing environment and resources for personal and family development for mothers and children.
In a new development, Matilde Alvarado, formerly a public policy nurse and the MOLC Director (a volunteer position), wrote a Life Skills Manual . Matilde selected and mentored two women in the community to be community trainers. Based on the Life Skills Manual, they trained seven participants in a 9-week course. The course is in high demand and will be repeated in March.
The MOLC Sewing School now boasts 10 graduates and anoth-
er class will start in October. The students learn to sew aprons, tote bags, and other items and to market and sell their products at local events. This is empowering. Watch for the MOLC Sewing School Booth at the Art on the Avenue Festival on October 5!
How is it possible to do all this in a small warehouse with an all-volunteer staff? The answer is you! You, our neighbors and partners. MOLC partners with the Capital Area Food Bank. And with local stores such as Keany Produce, DashMart, Lidl Express, Target, Wegman’s, Baldacci’s, Harris Teeter, and Amazon
Fresh, many of which donate food, clothing, household items, and baby essentials.
MOLC also partners with local churches, including St Rita’s, St. Stephen & St. Agnes School, the Redeemed Church of Christ, the Mormon Bishop’s Storehouse, St Mary’s Basilica, Blessed Sacrament, Good Shephard, and so many others.
In a partnership with Fox Family Dentistry, MOLC families (over 100 adults and children) have received free dental care.
In collaboration with George Washington University’s Art Therapy Program, MOLC created
“Art in a Bag.” The Art Bag is delivered along with the food deliveries. When the recipients complete the art project and return it to MOLC, they share their feelings when doing art – feelings of creativity, emotional support, and improved well-being.
The icing on the cake for MOLC’s 5th Anniversary is this summer’s Read & Shine program designed to improve English literacy. MOLC received significant support from a Capital Area Food Bank grant, Ed Arthur and his Hearts of Love Foundation, and Pat Miller and the Del Ray Business Association. What a success! More than 70 children and teens participated in several literacy events. Fox5 featured Read & Shine in its Pay It Forward segment on July 29.
To keep all this good going at MOLC, you can also contribute through the Federal Capital Campaign. MOLC # 35575. Please visit us at motheroflightcenter.com
This link is to the Fox5 pay-itforward video: fox5dc.com/news/ pay-forward-mother-light-helpsthose-need-alexandria
Photos: MOLC
Healthy Families Alexandria Celebrates 30 Years of Providing Support
BY MICHELLE SMITH HOWARD, PRESIDENT & CEO OF KIDS’ FIRST YEARS
Did you know that Healthy Families Alexandria is one of the oldest Healthy Families programs in the state and in the country? That’s right! Since 1993, this program has served approximately 6,000 families in Alexandria, providing the tools, guidance and support that families need to build a healthy successful life for the young children in their care.
Healthy Families’ four goals are to:
• Promote positive, nurturing, and responsive parenting
• Improve child health and development
• Promote school readiness
• Prevent child abuse and neglect
“We want to help families build foundations that will strengthen future relationships between parents and their children,” said Nanci Pedulla, Director of Healthy Families & Community Health Equity Programs at Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS), the coordinating agency for all of the Healthy Families programs in Northern Virginia, including Alexandria.
A key focus area for NVFS and Healthy Families Alexandria is child safety, which encompasses many initiatives. For example, the
Safe Sleep initiative provides expectant and new parents with accurate, up-to-date information on safe sleep practices, and also provides a free portable crib that families with limited resources can use for their infant. To get more information about the cribettes being distributed in Alexandria by NVFS, contact npedulla@nvfs.org.
Helpful tips about Safe Sleep can be found at cribsforkids.org.
“Child abuse prevention, car seat safety and home safety also fall under our purview,” said Pedulla. She shared a reminder that “September temperatures can still be quite warm, so we always want to remind parents about the dangers of leaving an infant or toddler unattended in a car seat.”
Pedulla noted that Healthy Families Alexandria, which is a member of the Family Connections Committee of Kids’ First Years, collaborates with many community partners and receives significant support from the City of Alexandria and other local entities such as Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN), the Department of Health, and Child Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (CAPCA), and others.
Financial contributions to the
NVFS Healthy Families program can be made at https://www.nvfs. org/healthy-families-direct-assistance/, and you can designate the locality that you want your donation to support.
Insights from the Advisory Board Chair
A requirement of all Healthy Families programs is to have an active Advisory and Development Board. Here in Alexandria, Tracy Nickelsburg, who became involved with Healthy Families Alexandria in 2007, currently serves as the Chair of that board.
“I love initiatives that offer hands-on, one-to-one engagement with people who don’t have a network of support systems or who don’t know how to access those support systems. Healthy Families Alexandria offers free services to assist families in all of their life issues, including hous ing, employment, and healthy child development, among others,” she said.
Nickelsburg noted that parents can set unrealistic expectations
Photos/graphics: KFY
Nanci Pedulla
Rodger Digilio
Tracy Nickelsburg
Unveiling Alexandria’s Green Gems: 2024 Residential Beautification Award Winners!
BY YANIQUE REVERS, ABC
The heart of Alexandria beats not just through its rich history and vibrant community but also through the stunning residential landscapes that adorn our city. This year, the Alexandria Beautification Commission is thrilled to honor those whose homes have made extraordinary contributions to our city’s charm and ecological harmony. We pridefully present the winners of the 2024 Residential Beautification Awards.
636 N Alfred Street dazzles with its lush, native plantings and impeccable maintenance, creating a welcoming oasis that enhances the neighborhood’s aesthetic appeal.
719 S Royal exemplifies sustainable landscaping and diverse native species seamlessly blending with its architectural design.
112 Cameron Street captures attention with its innovative approach to integrating greenery with modern design, demonstrating a commitment to beauty and environmental stewardship.
205 LaVerne Avenue is a true testament to thoughtful design, incorporating permeable walkways and a vibrant garden that harmonizes with its surrounding environment.
118 E Raymond Avenue impresses with its use of renewable energy and eco-friendly practices, creating a stunning and sustainable residential landscape.
719/721 N Overlook Drive stands out for its exceptional maintenance and unique de-
sign, which thoughtfully incorporates native plants and enhances the neighborhood’s character.
500 Virginia Avenue boasts a beautifully designed green space that enhances the property’s architectural elements while contributing to the community’s overall aesthetic.
4619 Strathblane Place shines with its creative use of natural materials and commitment to maintaining an impressive garden that integrates seamlessly with the local landscape.
503 Fontaine is a model of environmental responsibility and elegance. It showcases a beautifully maintained property that enriches the visual appeal of its surroundings.
These winners embody the principles of design, sustainability, and maintenance, and their properties set a standard for beautification.
About Us
The Alexandria Beautification Commission is dedicated to nurturing the beauty of our city through thoughtful and sustainable practices. We invite you to learn more about our efforts and discover how you can contribute to making Alexandria even more beautiful. Visit us at alexandriava.gov/Beautification and follow us on our social media channels Instagram @beautifulalx and Facebook facebook. com/AlexandriaBeautification for updates, tips, and more inspiring stories. Let’s continue to celebrate and enhance our beloved Alexandria’s natural and architectural beauty!
Photo courtesy Elizabeth Gelfer
Residential award winner: 112 Cameron St.
Photo courtesy Elizabeth Gelfer
Residential award winner: 719 N Overlook Drive.
Photo courtesy Yanique Revers
Residential award winner: 503 Fontaine St.
New Real Estate Laws Impact Buyer Agency Commissions
BY LYSSA SEWARD
Hello Alexandrians! We hope you had an amazing summer and made memories and enjoyed the season. In real estate, we are certainly in a brand-new season with many legal changes and challenges.
For many decades, and certainly since I have been in the business (in my 19th year) it has been customary for the sellers of a home to offer a cooperative buyer agency compensation to a buyer’s (also called selling agent) agent who represents the buyers’ fiduciary interests in a real estate transaction.
Up until August 17, 2024, and since the early 2000s, buyers were able to purchase a home without having to pay (generally) a buyer agent compensation. When these same buyers went to sell their home, they would customarily offer cooperative compensation to the buyer’s brokerage. Sellers in a sense got to take advantage of this customary system in place when they were purchasing their new home.
There has been a series of class action lawsuits and a lawsuit settlement which are changing the landscape of our industry and how buyers’ representation and compensation are handled. Details can be found online at these links:
Homebuyers: Here’s What the NAR Settlement Means for You Home Sellers: Here’s What the NAR Settlement Means for You
What the settlement means for homebuyers:
Written buyer-broker agreements are now required before touring a property. Note that we in the DMV have been using buyer broker agreements for years.
Offers of compensation to Buyer’s Brokers cannot be advertised on the MLS. Sellers may still offer buyer
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for what their preschool child should be doing at various ages and stages.
Language and cultural barriers can add extra layers of stress to the already challenging job of child-rearing.
“Families often need someone to talk to, someone that they can trust,” she said. “Healthy Families Alexandria works with parents to help their child reach the appropriate develop-
agency compensation, but it is not required and is negotiable up until the contract’s full terms have been ratified.
Offers of compensation can still be advertised off MLS, i.e. brokerage websites.
Agents must disclose to prospective sellers and buyers that broker commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable.
How will these legal changes impact the buying and selling process? Time will tell and we will update our Zebra readers as we work through these changes.
We plan to conduct business as we always have, leading with Integrity (Capital I intentional) first and foremost. We will continue to handle all clients and their transactions with transparency and honest com-
mental milestones. Parents learn to advocate for their children and to know when they should be advocating for the services or resources that they need in our community.”
She encourages readers to reach out and learn more about Healthy Families Alexandria. “We have room for more board members!”
Recalling an “A-Ha” Moment
Rodger Digilio, the longest-serving member of Healthy Family Alexandria’s Advisory and Devel-
munications while always representing our clients’ highest and best interests.
This is likely the largest investment of your lives, and you should absolutely have professional representation. It is a complicated and nuanced process with many pitfalls, twists and turns.
How can we help you; your family or friends navigate these new laws? We are happy to have a discussion anytime.
Article written by Lyssa Seward, Team Lead of The Seward Group at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, Alexandria, Virginia 22314. The Seward Group offers full-spectrum concierge real estate service at all price points and would be honored to help you, a family member, or
opment Board, vividly remembers the day when he experienced a revelation about the importance of early childhood education for the area’s youngest learners.
“I had been recently appointed to the Alexandria school board and was getting my headshot taken at a photography studio,” he said. “The photographer was running late, so I picked up a Life magazine in the waiting room to pass the time. A picture of a baby was on the front cover, and the feature
friend with any of your real estate needs. Email us at SewardGroup@ TTRSIR.com, visit our website at www.seward-group.com, or Call us at (703) 298-0562.
article was about brain development during the first few years of life.” Until reading that article, he had no idea that 90 percent of the brain is developed by age five, but the most pivotal time is during ages zero to three. He couldn’t stop worrying about the children that don’t have advantages in the critical years from age 0-3, which would impact their ability to start kindergarten ready to learn. When a friend on City Council suggested that he should
get involved with a newly established program called Healthy Families Alexandria, he jumped at the opportunity to join the Advisory and Development Board. That was in the fall of 1993, and he has been a dedicated board member ever since.
“We do a lot of community outreach to share information about Healthy Families Alexandria,” he stated. “It’s important for all kids to have a good start in the early years.”
Photo: Nathan Cima/Unsplash
Photo: the Seward Group
Left to right: Laura Catron, Melody Abella, Gina Wimpey, Lyssa Seward, Elaine McCall and Anita Edwards
T.C. Williams Class of 1974, 50th Class Reunion
On August 16 and 17, the T. C. Williams Class of 1974 members gathered at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Hotel in Newington to celebrate their 50 th high school reunion. Decades melted away as old friends caught up, swapped stories, and danced till midnight.
At Friday night’s informal welcome reception, classmates posed for caricatures by local sketch artists Mike and Dana, took pictures at a DIY photo booth laden with festive props, or solemnly circled a memorial display bearing the names of deceased classmates— now about 20 percent of a class of more than 900.
On the night of Saturday the 17, the formality and sound level kicked up a notch as Titans and guests reconvened for a “dress to impress” buffet dinner dance. The Reverend Myron Contee blessed the banquet and held a moment of silence for classmates who had passed. Then, the chatter, laughter, and dancing began, with music provided by UR Vision Media.
In closing, the class awarded prizes in several categories, including gifts to the classmate who traveled farthest to attend
All photos by Lucelle O’Flaherty except as noted.
ABOVE: Couples who have been together for 50 years Evelyn & Howard Gray, Ray & Chris Green, Bob & Lee Woodard, Cheryl & Charles Lawrence, Norma & Robert Blunt and Wanda & Bill Smith.
RIGHT: Brooks Billingsley Berger (reunion entertainment chair) & Kevin Kennedy at the selfie booth.
ABOVE: Cyd & Steve Douglas were also together 50 years.
ABOVE: Robert Coontz, memorial reunion display- chair & creator.
LEFT: Dr. Annie Green, reunion chair/ administrator and registration & fundraising chair.
ABOVE: Marilyn Patterson (First Night Alexandria Executive Director), Lucelle O’Flaherty (Zebra Community Liason/ NCWI Board Sec.), Kathie Tyler Prigmore (14th Black Woman Architect in US per Forbes 1985)
Alexandria Tutoring Consortium (ATC) tutored 255 local kindergarten, first, and second grade students in reading last school year. After 12,235 one-on-one tutoring sessions, 89% of the kids met their endof-year reading benchmarks.
“Tutor a child and change two lives!”
Executive Director Lisa Jacobs attributes these significant results to ATC’s adoption of a new lesson plan based on the Science of Reading. Jacobs says, “Our staff built a research-backed lesson plan and trained our incredible corps of volunteer tutors, who in real time could see the power of teaching phonics, and the kids excelled. This program works because ATC’s lesson plan matches what the students are learning in their classrooms. We work in lockstep with Alexandria City Public Schools to ensure our kids catch up to their classmates by the end of the year.”
Expanding to more kids:
ATC tutored 30% more children in the 2023-2024
school year than the previous one and brought its highly successful Book Buddies program to all 14 public elementary schools in the City of Alexandria. After helping 89% of those 255 children meet their end-ofyear benchmarks, ATC is growing again, doubling its program at James K. Polk Elementary to add tutoring for twenty second graders!
Impact
Studies show that high dosage tutoring, like Book Buddies, works, and teachers continually report that ATC’s students thrive. “I have witnessed firsthand the great work these tutors do. These caring adults are able to form relationships with students and help support them at such a critical point in their lives as readers! We know that outcomes for our students depend so much on their ability to read at an early age and with the ever growing number of students needing
CONTINUED ON PAGE 62
Bishop Ireton Bans Cell Phones
STUDENTSFACECONFISCATIONOFCELLPHONES,SMARTWATCHESAND PERSONAL LISTENING DEVICES DURING“INSTRUCTIONAL DAY”
BY MARY WADLAND
Bishop Ireton High School, a Catholic preparatory high school located in historic Alexandria at 201 Cambridge Road, has adopted a “Just Say No” policy regarding cell phones, smartwatches, and personal listening devices during the instructional day for the 2024-25 school year.
The school announced the new cell phone policy using a clever YouTube video. Dean of Students William Bass and Assistant Principal for Student Life Mr. Dodds outlined the changes.
“The change for this school year is that the use of cell phones, smartwatches, and personal listening devices are not permitted for students during the instructional day, nor is a student allowed to have a cell phone, smartwatch, or personal listening device on their person during the instructional day. This includes lunch,” says Dodds.
Bass adds, “If the cell phone, smartwatch, or personal listening device is brought to school, it must be powered off and stored in the student’s
locker or backpack during the instructional day.”
If a student is found to have one of the regulated devices on his or her person during the instructional day, it will be confiscated immediately
and taken to the Dean of Students office.
Improved communication between faculty and students this year is the reason, and Bishop Ireton is not alone. Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), for example, has the following guidelines for student use of personal mobile devices during the school day:
• Silenced or turned off: Devices must be silenced or turned off.
• Stored in a secure location: Devices must be stored in a secure location identified by the school, such as a locker, backpack, purse, or lockable drawer.
Get $50 credit toward any of our additional programs (Camps, Clubs, PNOs, Birthday Parties, etc) when you sign up for one of our coding programs before September 30th! No discount code required.
Dean of Students William Bass and Assistant Principal for Student Life Tim Dodds explaining the new cell phone policy on YouTube video.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 67
Photo courtesy of Bishop Ireton
Photos courtesy of Alexandria Tutoring Consortium
THEATER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42
“I’m With Her”. Later preppy Trumper Holden Caulfield (Nicholas Yenson in several roles) of Catcher in the Rye fame accosts Clinton and a stroller full of cats in rose-colored glasses explain the Electoral College voting system in the song, “Voting”.
The salient focus is the racism against the Chinese as fostered by Trump’s allies and believers and David’s dreamlike fantasy to live in a better, safer world as he tries to process his conflicted feelings to return to China, the land of his ancestors.
For levity, there is a host of goofy characters on the Trump side of the issues, Trump’s Veep (Christopher Mueller in several roles) makes an appearance as a gun-toting country boy, but the main thrust is the struggle for Chinese Americans who fear for their security in this fraught new American culture under the fired-up Trumpers. Fourteen numbers backed by a 10-piece band, amplify the polarization of the country since the election and the difficult future faced by Chinese Americans.
With Andrew Cristi as Chief Justice and others; Ashley Nguyen as Jing and
BELOW:
others; Quynh-My Luu as Waiter and others; Chani Wereley as Betsy Ross and others; and Sumié Yotsukura as Flight Attendant and others., Directed by Signature Theatre’s Artistic Director Ethan Heard, Choreographed by Billy Bustamante, Music Directed by Angie Benson, Music Supervised by Chris Fenwick, Scenic Design by Chika Shimizu, Costume Design by Helen Q. Huang , Lighting design by
TUTORING
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61
this kind of support, ATC’s volunteers provide an essential service in our community,” notes Naomi L. Brooks teacher Farr Quinn.
Call for volunteers
With the upcoming expansion, ATC needs more tutors. You can help a child learn to read by tutoring once or twice a week for 30 minutes during the school day (8:00-2:25), October-May. ATC provides all training, lesson plans, and materials. Tutoring occurs in-person in the schools. It is important to honor the year-long commitment because ATC volunteers truly become buddies with the kids they tutor. Your student will look forward
, Orchestrations by Danny Troob
Through September 15th at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Street in Shirlington Village, Arlington, VA 22206. For tickets and information call the box office at 703 8209771 or visit www.SigTheatre.org
to seeing you each week. For more information contact Alexa Allmann at aallmann@alexandriatutors. org or register on our website, www.alexandriatutors.org. Tutor a child and change two lives! Or donate on ATC’s website to help more children in Alexandria learn to read!
The Alexandria Tutoring Consortium is a nonprofit organization that recruits and trains volunteers to tutor K-2 students in reading. ATC works in partnership with Alexandria City Public Schools and the community at large to provide a trained, dedicated tutor to every child who needs help learning to read.
Oliver Wason, Sound Design by Eric Norris, Wig Design by Anne Nesmith
Photo by DJ Corey Photography.
ABOVE: Daniel May (Xue Xing), Chani Wereley and the cast of Soft Power at Signature Theatre.
Daniel May (Xue Xing, center) and the cast of Soft Power at Signature Theatre.
Photo by Daniel Rader
Rooted in Fun: Fall Brings Excitement to the Garden & Your Weekends!
BY RAY GREENSTREET
As autumn colors appear in Alexan dria, the season fills gardening fans and nature lovers with excitement. Fall offers more than crunchy leaves and pumpkin spice; it’s a chance to try new things in the garden and en joy outdoor adven tures that make week ends special.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a curious beginner, fall brings many activities to improve your outdoor spaces and join in local festivities. See how this magical season can bring new life to your garden and fill your weekends with fun, garden transformations, and memorable fall adventures!
Let me share with you some fall gardening tips & tricks:
Prepare Your Garden for Fall
Start preparing your outdoor space by cleaning up the garden beds. Remove dead plants and trim back perennials to reduce the risk of pests and diseases. This will give your garden a tidy look and support better growth next season. Add a layer of compost to enrich the soil with nutrients and improve its structure. It’s also a great time to plant fall perennials and bulbs for vibrant spring bloom63s. Protect roots with a thick layer of mulch to keep in moisture and maintain soil temperature. Use fallen leaves as natural mulch or compost. Setting up your garden in the fall ensures a beautiful and lively landscape come spring.
Choose Seasonal Plants
Choose hardy perennials for both color and resilience this season. Asters and mums bring bright colors that catch the eye even as it gets cooler. Ornamental grasses can add movement and texture to your garden as they sway in the autumn breezes.
For a dramatic touch, consider adding kale and cabbages with their unique shapes and colors. Don’t forget to plant tulip and daffodil bulbs now; they will burst into col or come springtime. By adding these plants, your garden will stay vibrant and full of life year-round.
Develop Smart Gardening Practices
Smart gardening practices are crucial during fall, as they help ensure your garden stays healthy in the long run. Start by saving water; ad just your watering schedule to match the cooler weather and in creased rain. This not only saves water but also helps your plants grow strong. Use natural fertilizers like compost to improve your soil without harsh chemicals. Rotate your crops to avoid draining the soil of nutrients and to encourage a variety of plants. Plant cover crops like clover, which add organic matter and fix nitrogen in the soil. Choose native plants— they need less upkeep and are better suited to the local climate. Regularly check for bugs and diseases to keep your garden happy and healthy!
Fall Festival Fun for the Family
Then, take some time to enjoy the season at the Fall Festival!
Experience the beauty of autumn at the Greenstreet Fall Festival, a must-visit weekend event for families near Alexandria. Starting on Saturday, September 14 and running every weekend through Sunday, November 3, this exciting celebration is packed with activities for all ages! Held in Lothian, MD, this family-friendly event is just 30 minutes away from Alexandria. Each year, Greenstreet Gardens invites families to join in ex-
hilarating activities such as navigating a six-acre corn maze, sliding down the underground slide, exploring the magical Woodlands, and enjoying hayrides, pillow jumping, face painting, and more.
This year, delight in a Peanuts-themed corn maze, a tribute to the 75th anniversary of Charles Schulz’s beloved comic strip. Test your puzzle-solving skills in this intricate maze and enjoy scenic hayrides that showcase breathtaking landscapes. Kids will love the cow train rides and the petting zoo, which promises an educational, hands-on experience.
Capture memorable moments in the stunning pumpkin patch, where families can pick the perfect pumpkin and savor local delicacies, including traditional apple cider and seasonal snacks. The festival features live mu-
Photos: Greenstreet Gardens
THE LAST WORD
BY MARCUS FISK
Out of Step
BY MARCUS FISK
“Whenever nature leaves a hole in a person’s mind, she generally plasters it over with a thick coat of self-conceit.”
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
“Kim, would you stop taking pictures of yourself? Your sister’s going to jail.”
—Kris Jenner
Greetings from France! The Paris Olympics have wrapped up. Some 16 million sports visitors found their way to the City of Lights for the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics. Approximately 50 million visitors are projected to visit Paris throughout the whole year. And for the entire country of France, over 101 million international visitors are expected this year.
We attended the Opening Ceremony events, and the streets were full of happy, energetic, excited people from all over the globe. Parisians themselves were particularly aglow, and rightfully so. When the games closed, Team France had brought home a record number of medals.
Team USA also enjoyed a terrific showing! It was great seeing so many USA athletes across the city. We even waved to three USA Women’s Basketball Team members getting into their van heading to the Olympic Village.
Paris was wrapped in beauty (despite the Opening Day rain), and all the young ladies were out in force. I saw hundreds of them bedecked in summer dresses, slacks, shorts – everything screaming “FASHION” –in front of every monument, statue, building, street corner, park, formal gardens, fountains, palaces, along famous streets and landmarks. Some were positioning themselves for that all-important “selfie” to transmit across the globe confirming to everyone they “were there.”
Some even had their entourage holding lights, reflectors, and shooting with their phone or with actual photographers setting up the shots. Nearly all these high fashion wannabees affected that new, young, Haute Couture Fashion POSE complete with glossy, pouting lips, late-night eye
make-up, tilted head, and all with that all-too-trendy kiss.
So, let’s get right to it, right now. I don’t get it
I’m from a completely different generation than today—a member of that strange “Boomer” generation.
“OK Boomer.” We hid under our desks and covered our heads during Civil Defense drills in the event of a nuclear attack from what was then the Soviet Union.1 People dug and built out bomb shelters in their backyards. From the air, whole suburban 1950s neighborhoods looked like
Endnotes
prairie dog colonies.
In the 1960s, our generation became “socially aware” and radicalized trying to stop the Vietnam War. Most of those serving in Vietnam were poor and unable to obtain a deferment from the draft by attending college. Few had any idea where Vietnam was on a map. Those who did go to college wound up protesting, participating in “sitins,” joining communes, turning on and dropping out, going to Woodstock and Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco, attempting to reshape American society out of the old ’50s way of think-
ing and into a whole new world.
Boomers became obsessed with protecting the Earth. “Give a hoot – don’t pollute!” posters were the rage. TV public service ads like “Keep America Beautiful” with the crying Native American2 appeared and were on everybody’s lips the next day. Peace activist John McConnell proposed a day for the Earth’s preservation at a UNESCO Conference, and when “Earth Day” was declared in April 1970, nearly every student at my Alma Mater, Fairfax High School, wanted to save the planet.
1 Civil Defense doesn’t even exist as an agency anymore. Their missions were divided and handled by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) both of which have received mixed reviews on success of late.
2 Native American, Indigenous American, American Indian, please select your choice. When the ad first appeared on American television sets, we all talked about ‘the crying Indian’.
3 “Influencer” – What does that mean? Marketer? Sales? Professional propagandist? Cultist? Or just plain Narcissist? You be the judge.
Our National Week assemblies always featured an environmental speaker. Posters and clean-ups became the standard. That first Earth Day effort was the beginning of the environmental movement that mobilized the Boomer generation to action and may have motivated former Vice President and Alexandria resident Al Gore to get into documentary filmmaking in a big way.
We Boomers may seem a bit out-of-touch with what’s “trending” today, being behind the power curve on understanding and accepting new technology. But here’s a quick reality check: Boomers created the personal computer, the internet, the cellular phone, the microwave (oven), the laser, and Rollerblades. We shot human beings into space, and we even put men on the
Photo by author
The stands at Place de Concorde – Paris Olympics 2024.
California Department of Public Safety Duck and Cover circa 1958
Screenshot
The Television ad that characterized the environmental movement in the US.
Iillustration of proposed civilian fallout shelter plans – NARA Fallout Shelters sprang up all over suburbia in the late 1950s.
Photo: BBC
ANGLICAN
Christ of the King Church
1801 North Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 535-6815
ONLINE:
WORSHIP DIRECTORY
Prayer Services: Sundays at 9 a.m. via Sermons page or Facebook
Live
Daily Morning Prayer: Weekdays at 8 a.m. via Zoom
Weekly Study: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. via Zoom IN PERSON:
Worship in the sanctuary at Convergence Sunday at 9 and 11 a.m. Via sign up online starting Tuesday.
BAPTIST
Cherrydale Baptist Church
3910 Lorcom Lane, Arlington, VA 22207 (703) 525-8210
Sunday Worship available at 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. either online or register to attend in person. Online via Church Website or Facebook Live.
Check out the church’s online weekly schedule for more events and services.
Commonwealth Baptist Church
700 Commonwealth Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 548-8000
Services:
Sunday Bible Study for ALL ages at 9:45 a.m.
Sunday Worship at 11 a.m. via Facebook Live or Conference Call at 571-446-0476
First Baptist Church of Alexandria 2932 King Street Alexandria, VA 22302 fbcalexandria.org
Sunday Livestream: 11a at fbcalexandria.org or on Facebook You are welcome here!
CATHOLIC
Catholic Diocese of Arlington 200 North Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22203 (703) 841-2500
Mass by Bishop Burbidge is uploaded to the church’s website.
Vatican News Live Strea.m. of Pope Francis’ Masses available daily via YoutTube
Go online to find Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception online mass, Sundays at noon.
EPISCOPAL/ANGLICAN
Christ Church
118 North Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 549-1450
Sunday Services:
Sundays at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 5:00 p.m. livestream of 10:00 a.m. service available Wednesdays at Noon (chapel) Morning Prayer weekdays at 7:30 a.m. via Facebook Live Compline on Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m.
More details can be found on church website
Meade Memorial Episcopal Church
322 N. Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
703-549-1334
Sunday Worship Service 10:00am in-person and zoom
Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer Fellowship - 7:00pm via zoom
If you want your House of Worship listed, please contact editor@thezebrapress.com or call 703-224-8911
PRESBYTERIAN
Alexandria Presbyterian Church (PCA)
1300 W Braddock Rd Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 683-3348 alexandriapres.org
Sunday Worship Services at 9am and 11am with nursery available, or online via our website
Sunday Evening Ministries for adults, youth, and children from 5-7pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church
2701 Cameron Mills Road, Alexandria VA wpc-alex.org
Join us for Sunday worship: Memorial Day-Labor Day 10:00 AM In-Person & Online at wpc-alex.org/worship September-May
8:30 AM In-Person 11:00 AM In-Person & Online at wpc-alex.org/worship
Old Presbyterian Meeting House 323 S. Fairfax Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703-549-6670
Sunday worship at 10:00 AM, in person and online at opmh.org Childcare available All Are Welcome!
ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN
All Saints of America Orthodox Christian Church 5903 Mt. Eagle Drive #115, Alexandria, VA 22303 (703) 417-9665
Church has in-person services, however, attendance is limited, and sign up/schedule for services can be found on the church’s online website. Updated frequently.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
Mount Vernon Unitarian Church
1909 Windmill Lane, Alexandria, VA 22307 703-765-5959 - info@mvuc.org
Work for justice. Care for the earth. Build the common good.
Worship with us Sundays at 10:00am in person or on YouTube.
See mvuc.org for news about upcoming services and events!
Do You Have Two Hours a Month?
If you can spare two hours each month to drive an older neighbor to an appointment, we welcome your participation!
Providing practical, social and emotional support to our Alexandria neighbors ages 55+
SENIOR LIVING
SSA’s 2024-2025 “Senior Living in Alexandria” Speaker Series
BY: MARYANNE BEATTY, DIR. OF COMMUNICATIONS, SENIOR SERVICES OF ALEXANDRIA
Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) is excited about its upcoming “Senior Living in Alexandria” speaker series that will feature topics that are both educational and fun! We begin the series with a Fall Senior Academy taking place in September. The October event is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16, starting at 10:00 a.m. and the subsequent events will take place on Wednesday mornings. Here is a preview of what’s planned for the upcoming year:
OCTOBER
“Smart Aging” – Readying Your Home and Finances Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 10 am
Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church
NOVEMBER
Volunteering for Seniors and Engaging Activities in Retirement Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 10:30 am
Location: Beatley Library
JANUARY
If you are a senior (over 60) that lives or works in Alexandria, you qualify for a card. And if you are a business and want to offer special deals to seniors, you are eligible to participate. If you want your business added or to get a card, please contact Senior Services at 703-836-4414, ext. 110 or email development@seniorservicesalex.org.
Age Friendly Plan Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 10:30 am
Location: Beatley Library
IN THE DIRT
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 63
sic, enhancing its lively atmosphere, and offers craft stalls with handmade items by local artisans. Greenstreet Fall Festival is a joyous celebration of autumn, fostering community connections and unforgettable
FEBRUARY
Strategies for Addressing Solo Aging, Social Isolation and Mental Health for Seniors presenting in partnership with At Home in Alexandria (AHA) Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 1 pm
Location: Beatley Library
MARCH
SSA Connection Live
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 10 am
Location: Beth El Hebrew Congregation
APRIL
Fresh and Fun Ideas for Floral Arranging with Red Hill Garden Club Wednesday, April 16,
2025, at 10 am
Location: TBD
MAY
Senior Health & Fitness Fair
Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10 am
Location: Lee Center, 1108 Jefferson Avenue
JUNE
Senior Law Day Date and location to be determined.
For more information, visit seniorservicesalex.org or call 703-836-4414, x 110. We look forward to seeing you at one or more of these great events!
experiences.
In addition to thrilling activities, the Fall Festival offers delectable food options. The Lothian Ruritan Club mans the grill in October, with brews from Greenspring Brewing Co. and local food trucks. The festival hosts events like Movie Under the Stars, Dog Daze in the Maze, and Heroes’ Weekend, honoring com-
munity heroes with special admissions. Families can also reserve spots for birthdays, bonfires, or field trips. Don’t miss this autumn extravaganza starting September 14! Check Greenstreet’s social media for updates or visit greenstreetgardens.com/fall-festival for details. We eagerly await your visit!
Courtesy SSA
THE LAST WORD
moon. At work, I have difficulty downloading the latest software or “app” dictated to me by the IT department. I frequently have to have a younger person help me operate my mobile phone – or what I prefer to call my “communicator,” since it’s more than a phone anymore. Anyone under 30 who comes to the house, we have them reprogram our TV to stream half the channels we pay for but can’t figure out how to find and watch.
Today, I’m a bit of a lost soul. Trendy phrases escape me. I don’t, for example, “share” with someone — I talk with them. I don’t “reach out” to a friend. I call or write to them. I don’t “provide input” in meetings – I tell people something.
As a whole Boomers tended to focus on the social and political ills of the world – war, poverty, disease, politics, and tried valiantly to fix
CELL PHONES
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• Smartwatches: Smart watches can be worn, but their communication features must be off.
Bishop Ireton and ACPS are on the right trend. On July 9, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin issued Exec-
PIZZA
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30
came to Benny’s, ready to take on the challenge. Gilbert’s other wins include drinking a five-pound butter pecan milkshake to best competitors. When asked why he does competitive eating, he said, “I love do-
things that vexed the world. Or so we thought.
Today’s young people are bright, fast out of the blocks, energetic, excitable, and multi-dexterous. But there is perhaps one major flaw in young people today that clouds today’s generation – “It’s all about me.”
And it’s not their fault. Today, it’s a self-focused world. It’s in everything we see and do. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X, Snapchat – It’s all about “Me.”
We have swapped an externally driven society for an internally focused one, and it’s on steroids. What we’re doing, where we are, what we wear, what we drive, what’s our music, what we believe, who we’re with, how much money we’re making, where we live, where we’re traveling, our new toys – all these things we send out on the ethernet, all are all about us. We broadcast it to the world to define ourselves – to showcase who we are.
Social media has become the demigod of our society. The volume of “hits” on our website, the number
utive Order 33, which is still in draft stage, to help bring cell phone-free education to Virginia schools, directing the Virginia Department of Education and the Secretary of Education alongside the Secretary of Health and Human Resources, State Health Commissioner, the Department of Health, and the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services to help parents,
ing competitive eating, and I plan to crush the challenge.”
He trained for weeks, and when the big day came, he was surrounded by family, friends, coworkers, and onlookers, hoping to cheer him on as he met his foe.
Several of Benny’s owners were there to cheer him on, including Maryanne, who
of “friends” we have on Facebook, or subscribers on YouTube, a recent post going “viral,” all these have spawned the new “career” field of “Influencer.”3 Selfies capturing yourself before Michelangelo’s “Pieta” or DaVinci’s “Mona Lisa” have become more important than capturing the original Renaissance masterpiece itself. Kylie Jenner fittingly once said, “I take, like, 500 selfies to get one I like.”
Is it time we changed the national motto from “E Pluribus Unum” to — paraphrasing Alexandre Dumas here — “All for One — and One is ME ”?
Like many Boomers, I’m on Facebook, too, so I’m not wholly absolved. I joined it to keep in touch with family, friends, and contemporaries since snail mail has become just another government agency on life support, being slowly driven into obscurity by corporate America.
I’m not saying that the Boomer generation was/is any better than today’s. But maybe it’s time we took a step back from our selfie-focused life and looked around. There’s a whole
teachers, and students better understand the effects of cell phones and social media on children.
Aimee Rogstad Guidera, Virginia’s Secretary of Education, said this guidance was written by Virginians who said “enough is enough.”
“Virginia parents and teachers have witnessed first-hand the damage cell phones in schools has had on our youth’s academic, mental
said, “We’re so happy he is here, supported by his family and friends. We’re really rooting for him.” Gilbert responded, “I’m excited, and I’m ready!”
He downed the first piece in about three minutes. Then, piece number two went down just as quickly. He continued the pace by starting on the third piece
world to be experienced, not just selfied. Art, sports, literature, theatre, music, other states, other regions, national parks, historic sites, other cultures, other countries — there’s a world around us that you have to experience — and not through a lens. You don’t always have to put yourself in the picture to prove you were there.
So, forget about blowing a kiss at the camera standing in front of the American Cemetery in Normandy, France. That ain’t about you.
Marcus Fisk is a retired Navy Captain, Naval Academy graduate, sometime actor, sculptor, screenwriter, pick-up soccer player, and playwright. He and his wife Pamela are former residents of Alexandria who moved to Connecticut, where they traveled the New England shore in their 42 Grand Banks Trawler ADAGIO. They are now living a grand adventure in France—new language, new culture, new chapter.
and physical health and social development. Communities are committed to implementing common sense approaches to restore vibrant and healthy learning environments for all our children throughout the Commonwealth. The Youngkin administration stands ready to support public schools, families, and communities as we change the culture around cell phones,” she added.
with 20 minutes left.
Tensions rose as he started the fourth piece with 16 minutes left.
With only 11 minutes remaining, he started folding pieces five and six into a sandwich. But those two pieces foiled his chance for success.
Two pieces were left on the pan.
Gilbert gave it a valiant effort, but the results were evident: Pizza 1, Gilbert 0. The crowd gave him a rousing round of applause. When asked if he would come back in 30 days to try again, Gilbert said, “The people have spoken. I’ll be back in 30 days to beat the pizza challenge.”
There are over 200 daycare centers within Alexandria
King Street Cats is proud to be the only all-volunteer, cat-exclusive, no-kill rescue facility in Alexandria, Va. Because we are a free-roaming facility, you can come visit with the “cat-friendliest cats” in town.
To meet a King Street Cat, please email contact@kingstreetcats.org.
KALA
BESSIE & DOLLY
Females, Age 8, Adopt Together
Best friends are happy cuddlers with so much love to share!
Female, Age 1
Shy, rare orange beauty seeks patient purrson to she can blossom.
TINKER
Male, Age 4
People-loving gentle boy is staff favorite; seeks quiet home as “one and only” best friend.
TULIP
Female, Age 2
Quiet, affectionate and playful young girl will be your “one and only” faithful friend.
ADORA (adopt her with a kitten sibling!)
Female, Age 4 months
She’s ADORAble! Adopt this happy, playful lovebug with a kitten sibling!
NELL
Female, Age 2
Stunning, affectionate young mom is ready to be the “one and only” princess in a dog-free kingdom.
REXY
Male, Age 5
Quiet, agreeable boy offers low maintenance love in exchange for peaceful home after his mom entered care facility.
Contact Us at Kingstreetcats.org and We’ll Schedule a Safe and Convenient Appointment Where You Can Meet Your New Furry Friend(S!)
KING STREET CATS
25 Dove Street • Alexandria, VA 22314 www.kingstreetcats.org
CAT IN A BOX
Our three-year-old
—Lynne
The next time your cat finds his or her way into a boxy predicament, snap a photo and send it to us. If we publish it, you will win a $25 gift card to an area retailer or restaurant. Be sure to include your cat’s name, your name, and your home address in case you win (so we can mail you your prize!). Please send to editor@thezebrapress.com with CAT IN A BOX in the subject line, along with a descriptive sentence or two.
Auditions + Classes this Fall with Alexandria Children’s Theatre
Audition Workshop on Sept. 5th, Auditions Sept. 6th + 7th For TheHolidayTimeTravelers, a new play for children age 8 – 18 commissioned by ACT. Performances Dec. 6th – 14th. Complete details on the website www.ACTheatre.com
Fall Classes Start Sept. 7th
Classes are for ages 4 – 14 on Saturday mornings at Burgundy Farm.
Acting, Singing, Stage Makeup, Disney songs and more. All students are onstage at the final class performing for families!
Drop In for $25 to tryout the first class. Payment plan + sibling discount available.
www.ACTheatre.com
RIGHT:
cat Luna loves playing in boxes and hiding in box caves that the kids call “Cat City.”
Davies Alexandria
LEFT: One-year-old Hobbes decided to surprise mom when she got home and went to open up her Amazon package.
—Thomas J. Rea Alexandria
RIGHT: Rocket and Luna cuddle constantly in this fabric bin.
—Trish & Terry Enright Alexandria
50th REUNION
the event (Victoria Dearborn, from London) and to couples who had been together since high school (Wanda and Bill Smith, Norma and Robert Blunt, Cheryl and Charles
Lawrence, Ray and Chris Green, Cyd and Steve Douglas, Bob and Lee Woodard, Evelyn and Howard Gray). Other winners included “Against All Odds,” Milton Turner; First to Pay, Andy Seligman; Capturing Memories, Lucelle O’Flaherty; Hall of Fame, Carl Turner; Most Educated, Gary Sanborn; Big-
gest Donation, Donnie and Valerie Williams; Creativity, Rebecca Lasley.
The reunion’s organizing committee, Dr. Annie Green (Registration and Fundraising), Delora Dillard (Venue and Finance), Brooks Billingsley Berger (Entertainment and Activities), Robert Coontz (Me-
morial Display) and Carol Giles (Silent Auction and Scholarship), began planning the event in December 2023. Proceeds from the reunion will fund a Class of 1974 scholarship to a student at Alexandria City High School, formerly T. C. Williams.
TOP LEFT: The awesome Memorial display designed and created by Robert Coontz.
TOP RIGHT: Evelyn Gray, Paulette Scales, Yvette Thompson, Crystal Taylor and Karen Taylor. LEFT: Marty Nichols, Jeff Horton, Melissa Nunberg Azzam, and Mary McGowan.
Photos: Lucelle O’Flaherty
llustration: Vero Barker-Barzel
Design: LucidCreative.co Illustration: Vero Barker-Barzel
