endeavor

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ENDEAVOR
Annandale Chamber of Commerce
July 2013
2
President’s Message
3
Real Estate: Sequestration’s Effect
4
From Capitol Hill
5
Chairman’s Corner
6
Special Spotlight
Canine Companions
8
The Annandale Fall
Festival & Parade
10
Finance
11
ROADS & RAGE
12
Urban Design Quick Fixes
14
Creating a Catalyst
for Development
16
Annandale of Old:
18
19
The Police Beat
20
22
TAX TALK
23
Member Spotlight
24
VIEW ON NATURE
26
Reviving a 70 Yr. Old
Site
28
Kenwood School
Summer Camp
29
CHAMBER CHAT
32
Calendar of Events
Original Commercial
District: Part II
Concerts in the Park
New Members
Building the Annandale Marketplace
www.annandalechamber.com
Reclaiming Annandale’s Historic Town Center
By: Jeffrey Levine & M. Callahan
How is an established community revitalized?
Many urban
planners begin by establishing a
town center and develop outward from this central point.
Unlike two recently built projects at Penrose Square in Arlington and the Mosaic Center
at Merrifield, where the centers
are not in historically inevitable
locations, Annandale’s town
center naturally occurs at the
intersection of two important
Long term development around the town center
colonial roadways. This interwith facades respecting the curve of the Plaza.
section is the site of the first
commercial businesses in Annandale, and has
ment of our downtown. This proposal, similar
been fully occupied for more than 200 years by
to the Annandale Demonstration Project, is comsucceeding businesses.
munity driven, with help from the School of
Design at the Annandale campus of Westwood
Proposing a Town Center Plaza at the intersecCollege. It is important to emphasis that this is
tion of Columbia Pike and Little River Turnnot an official plan, but a suggestion to help kick
pike enhances the historical heart of Annandale,
and could be a catalyst in the future developCreating a Catalyst for Development (Figure 1)
continued page 12
July 2013
2
Message from the President
NOW is the Time for Annandale’s Revitalization
By: Marilyn Hoosen
As we prepare for the
summer of 2013, we
look forward to lazy
days of lemonade and
literature. It is usually
an occasion for families and friends to
spend quality time
together, with backyard BBQs and block
parties, weekend trips
to the beach or weeklong vacations out of
town.
ENDEAVOR
As we slip into summer, this is an excellent time and for developers to meet with our organizations and begin the implementation phase of CBD revitalization. A rich abundance of feasibility
and assessment studies have been completed. Our revitalization
will buttress development of surrounding communities and shopping meccas like the Springfield Mall, in a way that will enhance
and enrich the greater Annandale metropolitan area. We look
forward to converting the conversation into meaningful and material actualization.
To one all in Annandale, we wish you a fun, safe and pleasant
summer!
Your President,
Marilyn
For business owners and company employees, summer spells
slow-downs, depending on the industry, and a quieter period
for sales and revenues. It is also a time for consumers to
expect spikes in gas prices, hotel stays and outside dining.
For the well-planned consumer, reservations were made well
in advance and discount deals devoured, avoiding the peakseason pricing trap. However, as the middle class continues
to experience wage stagnation, coupled with purchasing
power inflationary effects, the ability to pay for vacations 3
to 4 months in advance seems a distant dream. So, the question for policymakers continues to be: how can we improve
the lives of the middle class, who serve as the engine for
GDP growth through consumerism and comfortable financial
security?
It is incumbent upon our local government policymakers to
ask how we can best grow the local economy, through winwin incentives. Given that Annandale has no hotel for visitors in our Central Business District, it is our hope and mission to engage developers who see opportunity for real expansion. Given the high household net worth in Annandale,
steady employment and housing market, high education levels, and high home occupancy rates, every sector of expansion from hospitality to high-end retail are a developers
dream.
As members of the Annandale Chamber of Commerce, we
understand our charge to advocate for development and expansion of industry, housing and transportation to enhance
the lifestyle quality and economic prosperity for our inhabitants, both commercial and residential. As such, we welcome
real estate developers to engage our revitalization committees, our local and municipal government offices, and yes,
our Chamber, to move the meter in the market. We look
forward to cranes and construction equipment, ever busy
with erecting buildings, inviting retailers and commercial
enterprises to establish their headquarters and flagship stores
here in the heartland of our community. Annandale is open
for business!
COLUMBIA PIKE AND GALLOWS ROAD . 703-256-2730
www.annandaleshoppingcenter.com
BRING THE FAMILY & LAWN CHAIRS
ENDEAVOR
July 2013
3
REAL ESTATE
Sequestration’s Effect
By: Scott Pearson
Sometimes, we in Annandale feel insulated from the general
housing market. After all, the housing bust in 2008 didn’t hit
our area nearly as hard. A house inside the beltway in Northern
Virginia continues to hold its value way above national averages.
Even commercial property, which has been slower to recover, is
seeing a much improved picture.
But the Pearson Group tracks the entire market and the elements
that influence Annandale, including the rental market. As you
may have read, sequestration is hitting the rental market hard
due to a severe reduction in federal funding of housing choice
vouchers. These vouchers are used by people that earn less than
60% of the area median income in order to reach the cost of renting in our area.
“This is a disturbing situation since it came without much warning,” said Robert Schwaninger, Mason District Commissioner on
the Fairfax County Rehabilitation and Housing Authority. “The
FCRHA is scrambling to make sure that people who rely on the
vouchers don’t lose their homes.”
Although one’s first instinct is to focus on the renters, the property owners are also under the gun. Without the vouchers in
place, the renter’s ability to remain is in jeopardy and this could
lead to vacancies. It might also mean that areas, like Annandale,
that rely heavily on low income labor to man the small shops and
stores, might see employees leaving because they have to move
out of the area.
The real property market is a complex, interconnected field that
is affected and affects nearly all portions of the economy, both
nationally and locally. Employment figures, federal spending,
commercial lending practices, demographic changes, and all
elements of society touch on the basic need to have shelter and
the cost of fulfilling that need.
In Annandale, we have examples of growth, revitalization, upward trending property values, and increasingly available lines
of credit. For example, BB&T is actively seeking to provide
increased numbers of credit lines for small businesses in the area. This may lead to additional growth and investment in our
community.
But, on the fringes the picture is not always great. The loss of
affordable housing in Alexandria to redevelopment along
Beauregard, will remove from the area many of the lower income employees that we often take for granted. This may mean
that Annandale employers will be compelled to pay higher wages to attract and maintain their employees and, therefore, increase the cost of goods and services. Already, “Help Wanted”
signs are not uncommon.
In the final analysis, “Annandale, we are all in this together.”
Fun and Fulfilling
Volunteer Opportunity
Annandale Fall Festival
Help celebrate Annandale, run a children’s game, read stories in the Secret Garden, help with the entertainment stage,
aid the facilities coordinator on
Saturday, October 26, 2013.
Volunteer for two hours or the entire day. These hours will
count toward school community service requirements. All
ages welcome as volunteers. See forms for details.
Forms available at www.annandalechamber.com under
Our Events then Fall Festival/Parade or write
volunteer@annandalechamber.com
July 2013
4
ENDEAVOR
From Capitol Hill
Washington: What Small Businesses Need to Know About the Affordable Care Act
By: Congressman Gerald E. Connolly
The Affordable Care Act
will give small business
owners new options for
providing quality, affordable health coverage to
their employees if they so
choose. As end-of-year
deadlines approach for
small businesses to comply with the provisions of
the Affordable Care Act
(ACA), there has been an
upswing in calls to my
congressional office from
business owners with
questions about their options under the law.
Here are some details on the ACA and what will be required
of small businesses. Small businesses that employ fewer than
50 full-time employees will not be required to provide health
care coverage to their employees under the ACA, nor will they
be subject to penalties if they choose not to provide coverage.
In the United States, 96 percent of all businesses are in this
category.
In addition, businesses with fewer than 25 employees and average annual wages of less than $50,000 are eligible for a sliding-scale tax credit to help them offer employee health insurance coverage, if they so choose. The credit is worth up to 50
percent of a small business’ annual insurance premium costs.
Starting October 1, small businesses with fewer than 50 employees can enroll online in the Virginia Small Business
Health Insurance Options Program (SHOP) marketplace -- a
Health Insurance Marketplace solely for small businesses -which will offer business owners a variety of qualified health
insurance plans. Coverage under these plans is scheduled to
begin on January 1, 2014. Beginning in 2016, employers with
100 or fewer employees will be able to participate in the
SHOPs.
Small businesses will have access to the same types of quality,
affordable coverage that only large companies can access today. Currently, some small businesses have a problem obtaining affordable health care. On average, small businesses pay
18 percent more in premiums than large firms for the same
benefits. The SHOP will reduce premiums for small businesses through lower administrative costs, increased competition
among insurers, increased transparency of costs, and the ability of small businesses to join a larger risk pool.
The SHOP marketplace will allow small businesses to make sideby-side comparisons of a range of health insurance plans to find a
plan that is the best fit for their budget and for their business and
employees. All health plans in the state SHOP will cover essential
health benefits like those covered by a typical employer health
plan. Plans will be offered in four tiers based on the amount of
coverage that they provide.
The ACA also ends another problem faced by small businesses,
the fear of premiums rising simply because one of their employees gets cancer or has a serious heart attack. Premiums can vary
only based on the ages and smoking history of employees. Under
the new consumer protections, employees cannot be charged more
or excluded from a plan because of a pre-existing
health condition.
Businesses with 50 or more employees will face a shared responsibility requirement on January 1, 2014. Under the requirement,
some larger small businesses will have to pay a penalty if they
don’t offer affordable health coverage and if they have at least
one full-time employee receiving a premium tax credit (based on
income thresholds) to help them purchase individual health insurance in the state exchanges for individuals. However, the vast
majority of businesses with 50 or more employees already voluntarily offer health coverage. Currently, 94 percent of firms with
50-199 employees already offer coverage to their employees and
98 percent of firms with 200 or more employees do so.
Starting in 2015, small businesses also have the option of offering
their employees a choice of plans in the SHOP. Under “employee
choice,” the employer will pick the level of coverage it wants to
pay for – bronze, silver, gold or platinum – and then their employees can choose any plan in the SHOP that is at that level of coverage. The SHOP also will consolidate billing for small businesses,
so small businesses can offer their employees a choice of health
plans without the hassle of contracting with multiple insurers.
And small businesses can either
use an existing insurance broker
to access the SHOP, or shop for
plans themselves.
There is an additional benefit to
the national and regional economy resulting from the ACA.
According to a study conducted
by non-partisan health care experts associated with the Urban
Institute and the Robert Wood
Johnson Foundation, 1.5 milcontinued bottom of page 5
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
5
Chairman’s Corner
Fairfax: Transportation Funding
By: Sharon Bulova, Chairman
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
Our business community has no doubt been hearing about the
changes coming to Fairfax County and to Virginia in regards
to transportation funding. With the General Assembly passage
of HB 2313 in April, new transportation dollars will be available for statewide use. Additionally, separate funding will be
directed to local and regional projects.
In my role as Fairfax County’s representative on the Northern
Virginia Transportation Authority board, I have been working
with my colleagues to get the NVTA reorganized so that we
can start to see the results of this new infusion of transportation dollars. We are making significant progress. NVTA will
select the first round of projects to be funded through HB
2313 and wrapping up the reorganization work by the end of
July. Several Open Houses and Public Meetings will be held
to share information with the public and receive feedback on
transportation projects. A final Public Hearing will be held in
July.
Check
the
NVTA
website
at
www.thenovaauthority.org/ for the date, time, location and
full list of projects. It is critical we hear from the business
community what your priorities are for transportation.
This is not the first time the NVTA has been charged with
funding regional projects. In 2007 the General Assembly
passed House Bill 3202, a transportation funding bill that
called for a regional body to levy and collect certain fees and
taxes to be used for regional projects. The delegation of taxing authority to an unelected board was later determined to be
unconstitutional by the Supreme Court of Virginia.
With no significant source of funding, the NVTA spent the
years following the Supreme Court decision addressing the
allocation of federal funding for projects of a regional nature.
We also updated the Northern Virginia regional transportation
plan called TransAction 2040. That work proved to be very
useful when the General Assembly took up the issue of creat-
ing a separate regional funding
package as part of HB 2313.
Fairfax County estimates that
we will receive about $38 million annually under the local
(30%) component of the bill.
NVTA will likely be receiving
approximately $300 million
annually under the regional
(70%) component of the total.
The NVTA portion can only
be used according to the criteria laid out in HB 2313 - essentially to relieve congestion,
to fund projects that have a
regional benefit, and/or to increase capacity on roads and transit.
The NVTA Board consists of the Mayors and Chairs of Northern
Virginia jurisdictions, members of the General Assembly, and an
appointee designated by the Governor. Fairfax County, because of
our size, receives 50% of the weighted vote on NVTA, essentially
giving us veto power on funding decisions.
I thank the Governor and members of the General Assembly who
made this funding possible. Transportation is one of Northern
Virginia's greatest challenges and it's important that we use this
opportunity wisely. I welcome your comments and participation
in the public outreach sessions.
Sincerely,
www.Facebook.com/sharonbulova
EDITOR’S NOTE: See the ROADS AND RAGE Column page 11 for the proposed
regional road projects.
FROM CAPITOL HILL continued
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Alexandria, VA 22304
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www.temporestaurant.com
lion Americans will choose to start their own businesses because
they will no longer have to worry that they won’t be able to obtain
or afford health insurance if they leave their current employer and
strike out on their own.
And that is good news.
For more information about the Affordable Care Act for Small
Businesses
visit
http://SBA.gov/healthcare
and
www.healthcare.gov or contact my office at 202-256-3071.
6
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
Canine Companions for Independence
Exceptional Dogs for Exceptional People
By: Matt Trott
Dogs come in all
shapes and sizes, but if
you see a retriever with
a blue and yellow vest,
chances are pretty
good it is a proud assistance dog from Canine Companions for
Independence (CCI).
CCI provides, at no
cost, elite assistance
dogs to people with
disabilities. The dogs
pick up phones, remotes and other important items dropped
by their human partners, help pull wheelchairs, alert deaf and Matt and Claren prepare to represent CCI in
the 2013 Inaugural Parade.
hard of hearing people
(all photos courtesy Matt Trott)
to important sounds,
and do so much more – all the while providing the loving companionship that dogs so readily offer.
More than 4,000 teams have graduated from CCI's five regional training centers across the United States. Folks in Alexandria, Virginia, are part of the CCI Northeast Region, which has
its training center in Medford, N.Y. Since it opened in 1989,
more than 600 teams have graduated from the Northeast.
My Service Dog, Claren, and I graduated from the Northeast
Region on Feb. 28, 2004, and joined the CCI Capital Chapter
of the Northeast Region (that's DC, Maryland, Northern Virginia and the Eastern Panhandle of Western Virginia). We are
joined by more than 300 other Chapter members consisting of
CCI graduates, volunteer puppy-raisers, and supporters.
Claren and I have been together for more than nine years, so I
guess you could say she is in the twilight of her career, but
hardly a day goes by that she doesn't happily pick something up
for me or proudly carry my lunch bag to and from work. And of
course, she still loves belly rubs and playing with other dogs.
I have a neurological disorder called Friedreich's ataxia that
limits my balance and dexterity. I have used a wheelchair full
time for about 15 years. Claren is easily one of the best things
to happen to me since then. Here is a list of just some of the
tasks Claren has done in those nine years:

Pick up everything from dollar bills and credit cards to
bulky wheelchair parts,

Pull my laundry basket to the laundry machine,

Turn on and off lights,

Pull my socks off,

Carry my shopping bags, and

Get me a bottle of water from my refrigerator.
None of that even qualifies as her most important job: She is
my companion. Anyone who has lived alone knows that having
someone else around is a huge blessing, even if that someone is
a dog. For someone in a wheelchair, multiply that by a thousand. She doesn’t answer me, but she listens. She keeps me
from becoming too self-involved, from worrying too much,
from being too depressed. I can’t do any of this anymore because of Claren. And because of her, I don’t want to. And she
enabled me to participate in this year's 57th Presidential Inaugural parade.
As wonderful and life-changing as these CCI dogs are, the volunteer puppy raisers are their equals. Just imagine spending all
that time, money and energy to raise a puppy and teach it its
basic commands only to turn it in to CCI at 14 to 18 months for
advanced training and hopefully a career as an assistance dog.
And not just to do it, but to do it happily.
In my nine years in the CCI family, I have heard many explanations for this astonishing act of altruism: “I'm just helping the
dog get where he's supposed to be” or “We were raising him for
you.” Lately, I have heard another way to answer the, “How
could I give the puppy up” question. Two people, both very
young, have told me that they answer this question with one of
their own, “How could I not?”
Matt and Claren teach 1st graders in Falls Church about service dogs.
When I was on the waiting list for an assistance dog from CCI,
I was invited to get a dog from two other organizations, but I
turned them down. It is not just a dog you get from CCI, but so
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
7
Canine Companions
Raise a Dog, Change a Life
much more. You
get so much help
and support from
other CCI assistance dog partners, from puppyraisers, from the
trainers. I told
Claren’s
puppy
raiser that maybe I
would eventually
get tired of thanking her for everything but not anytime soon. It is a
pretty
stunning
gift I have been
given and the gift
isn’t just Claren
herself.
Because the dogs
are provided to
graduates free of
charge, CCI relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses,
groups and foundations for funding. In addition to raising
awareness through presentations and demonstrations, CCI’s
Chapters assist with fundraising efforts. Our Capital Chapter’s
premiere fundraising event is Sails & Tails, which just celebrated its fifth year in Annapolis, Maryland on April 21st. This year,
Sails & Tails raised more than $47,000 for CCI. As this is the
estimated cost of raising and training a CCI assistance dog, we
are thrilled and already looking forward to next year’s Sails &
Tails event, to be held on April 27, 2014. Mark your calendars!
This event features wine tastings, chocolate samplings, a silent
auction, demonstrations by CCI instructors, and a chance to
mingle with CCI graduate dogs and puppies who will one day
grow up to be CCI assistance dogs.
Claren is eager to try rock climbing but Matt needed
help from some two-legged friends .
Another important fundraiser came from a local business seeking likes on Facebook. Annapolis Volvo donated $1 to CCI for
every like its page received during the 2012 holiday season. The
dealership presented CCI with a check for nearly $800.

Canine Companions for Independence® provides highlytrained assistance dogs for children and adults with disabilities, free of charge. The most advanced technology
capable of transforming the lives of people with disabilities has a cold nose and a warm heart!

The mission of Canine Companions for Independence is to
raise awareness of the CCI objectives, to raise puppies and
to raise funds for CCI.

Puppy raisers with their puppies are seen throughout the
metropolitan area -- at the workplace, in restaurants, in
movie theaters, in shopping malls and on the Metro. Many puppy raisers take their puppies to work with
them, although puppy raising does not require this. A
puppy raiser is primarily responsible for teaching basic
obedience and for socializing the puppy in preparation for
a life of service.

CCI is funded by private contributions and receives no
government funding.

CCI provides assistance dogs at no charge to recipients
and is dependent on the generous nature of our contributors to "stand on our own four feet." CCI is listed as a
charity in the Combined Federal Campaign and receives
the majority of its funds through individual and corporate
support.
To find out more about Canine Companions for Independence,
Puppy Raising, how to apply for an Assistance Dog, or how
you can help go to www.CCI.org
Puppy in Training
In the 2013 Presidential Inaugural parade, I too wore the blue
and yellow CCI colors. I am not sure which of us was more
proud – me or Claren.
Representatives from Canine Companions will be at the Annandale Fall Festival on Saturday, October 26th in the Safeway Parking Lot. Meet them and their amazing companions
and hear about the work they are doing.
A dog is the only thing on this earth that loves you more
than he loves himself.
Josh Billings (Henry Wheeler Shaw)
July 2013
8
ENDEAVOR
Annandale Fall Festival and Parade
Saturday, October 26th...Save the Date & Celebrate Annandale
Shoppers in the Community Market
The Bungee Jump, Obstacle Course, Giant Slide, Spinning Buckets and
other inflatable games are only a sampling of what awaits in The Kids Zone.
The Annandale Fall Festival: On Saturday, October 26,
2013, the Annandale Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a
spectacular Fall Festival in the Safeway parking lot on Little
River Turnpike. This is the largest public event in Greater Annandale attended by over 10,000 people. From 10:00 AM to
5:00 PM the Annandale Fall Festival will offer something for
everyone in the family, and will be held in conjunction with
the annual parade for a fun-filled day!
ings & marquetry. The ever popular Pet Vendors will again
feature a broad range of
clever pet accessories, dog
trainers & walkers, and
gourmet pet food. Meet
representatives from the
Canine Companions for
Independence organization
along with their expertly
trained dogs. Children’s
books & toys, endearing
marionettes, herbal wraps
& wreaths, quality giftware
from major manufacturers,
silks, fashion accessories
and professional stylists
will fill-out the Community
Market.
In the Food & Entertainment Zone, Rock, County, & Jazz
Bands along with costumed international dancers, a children's
chorus, and Karate Demonstrations will entertain. Japanese,
Thai, Nigerian, Greek, Italian, and Latin cuisines will be represented along with the perennial favorites such as barbeque,
Philly cheese steaks, burgers and fried chicken, funnel cakes,
snow cones, home baked goods, and Kettle Corn.
The Kids Zone will host rides and interactive games appropriate for all ages. Bungee jumps,
an Obstacle Course,
Puppet Shows, Osmar’s Magic Shows,
and Storytelling in
the Secret Garden;
and, Toddler Play in
Lil’ Pirates Cove are
just a small sampling
of what is planned.
Cooper from Canine Companions
with Dallie Lama
In the Community
Market there will be
one hundred vendors
to include artisan
crafters, handmade
jewelry, wood carv-
Costumed Characters greet children in
front of The Secret Garden and
Usborne Book Display.
Finally, antique cars, fire
trucks, and a NASCAR
await your exploration.
See the Chamber’s website at www.annandalechamber.com/
Dinosaurs, Cats, Dogs, and forest animal puppets for sale at the Festival.
ENDEAVOR
July 2013
9
Annandale Fall Festival and Parade
Vendor applications and Parade Entry Forms available online...while space remains.
The Authentica Diabladz Arbieto Dancers wear amazing costumes.
fallfestival_and_parade.rhtml for Community Vendor, Volunteer, Entertainment, Sponsorship Forms and Parade Entry Forms. Vendor space is limited and
filling quickly so don’t
wait to apply for your
booth.
The Annandale Parade:
The popular Annandale
Parade will be held on
Saturday, October 26,
2013 beginning at 10:00
am.
Marching along
Columbia Pike from the
historic white church
near Gallows Road all
Cheering Crowds greet the Parade
the way to the Bowling
Alley-Safeway, thousands of participants from Clowns, Storybook Characters, and Marching Bands to Antique & Military Cars, Fire Trucks, Civic Organizations, Scouts, and
Crowds watching the puppet and magic shows in the Secret Garden
The tantalizing aromas draw you back, time and time again to sample foods
from this collection of International Culinary Chefs.
beautifully costumed International Dancers will parade before
the residents of Greater Annandale. Sponsored by the Annandale Chamber of Commerce, this sixty-three year old tradition only gets bigger and
better every year. www.annandalechamber.com
July 2013
10
ENDEAVOR
FINANCE:
Getting to Know Foreign Investments
Financial Advisor Marilyn Hoosen, MSSB
Housing appears to be
on the verge of a significant recovery. Home
price indicators suggest
new potential for impending price appreciation; polls show growing confidence in the
housing market; and
business prospects for
the industry show early
signs of strengthening-all suggesting that the
long-awaited housing
recovery may finally be
here.
The housing market looks to be getting stronger, which could
be taken as an omen of more generally good economic news to
come. After all, home values are an important barometer of
consumer wealth. Home construction is a significant fraction of
the U.S. economy. Both of those elements had taken significant
hits in recent years.
recovery. Of the remaining 19, Detroit was the only city whose
rate of growth did not increase.2
Homebuilding Follows Apace: With home prices rising, construction activity should recover as well. Housing starts are now
up 23.6%, year over year, supporting a solid growth trajectory in
2013. More importantly, new housing permits, a leading indicator
for future construction, have been rebounding even more strongly, to a 925,000-unit pace in January, the highest rate since June
2008.3
Builders are building because demand has picked up, as evidenced by the shrinking inventory of unsold homes. New home
sales surged nearly 16% to an annual rate of 437,000 units in
January--the strongest gain since July 2008. Existing home sales
came in a little weaker, but in both cases, the data have maintained an upward trend since last June, keeping the housing recovery in place.3
Other measures of market strength come from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). As of January, NAR’s measure of
buyer traffic is up a whopping 40% from year-earlier levels, but
the companion measure of seller traffic has held steady. That’s
resulted in a near-record low of inventory for sale--it would take
just 4.1 months to eliminate the supply of unsold new homes. The
inventory of existing homes, at 4.2 months, is the lowest since
April 2005, when the housing boom was near its peak. 3
Variations in Home Appreciation
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20
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<<Negative Appreciation Positive
Appreciation >>
The Rebound in Home Prices: The average home value (as
measured by the S&P/Case-Shiller 10-City Composite Home
Price Index) shrank 33% from 2006 to 2009. 1 But since those
A third measure of market prospects is the monthly expectations
difficult days, home prices have begun to recover. As of the
survey by the mortgage
latest data (at the end of
bank Fannie Mae. They
2013’s first quarter), the
report that nearly half of
S&P 10-City Composite
the people they polled
had gained 5.4% from its
25%
(48%) believe home pricAverage Annual Home Price Changes Through the Years
recession low, and most
20%
es will go up in the next
of that gain took place
1
12 months. The number
during the past year.
15%
who fear home prices
Overall,
S&P/Case10%
will decline was just
Shiller home price indexEndofofRecession
End
5%
10%, the lowest level
es cover 20 metropolitan
recession:
ever recorded in the sur0%
real
estate
markets
vey. Similar numbers
around the United States.
-5%
believe that rental prices
All 20 of those markets
End
of
End of Recession
will also go up in the
-10%
showed solid gains from
recession:
Endofof
End
year ahead.4
-15%
their year-ago levels in
Recession
recession:
the March 2013 report.
-20%
Capitalizing on the RePhoenix, which saw some
covery: There are signif-25%
of the steepest price deicant implications in this
clines of the past decade,
turnaround for investors
led the way with a 23.2%
as well as homeowners.
When the economy has struggled, so have home prices. The mild downturn of 2001 slowed (but did not stop) the pace of home appreciation. The more severe
contractions of 1990 to 1991 and 2007 to 2009 actually drove home prices downward for sustained periods. Moreover, after prior recessions, home prices eventually rebounded to points that were significantly above their previous plateaus. This trend can be seen in the graph of rolling average home price changes for
trailing 12-month periods as recorded by the S&P/Case Shiller 10-City Composite Home Price Index. The indicated recessionary end points are the official dates
determined by the Business Cycle Dating Committee of the National Bureau of Economic Research.1
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
11
ROADS AND RAGE
First Year of Proposed Projects to Kick Start Congestion Relief
Northern Virginia Transportation Authority
NVTA chairman, Martin Nohe commented, “Our goal is to
jumpstart those congestion relief projects in the region that give
us the most bang for our buck. However, this is only the first
wave of projects. In the coming years The Authority will implement dozens of transit, rail and highway projects, all with
the same Northern Virginia residents home from work faster.”
HEREND
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customerservice@annsandra.com
TEA FORTE
jurisdictions are:
Alexandria (total $6,360,000)
o DASH Bus Expansion (5 new buses) – FY14 Revenue
Service
o Traffic Signal Upgrades/Transit Signal Priority – FY14
Construction/FY14 Design Start
o Shelters and Real-Time Transit Information for DASH/
WMATA – FY14 Construction Start
o Potomac Yard Metrorail Station EIS – FY14 Planning
Complete, Begin Design
Arlington (total $18,835,000)
o Columbia Pike Multimodal Street Improvements –
FY14 Construction Start
o Boundary Channel Drive Interchange – FY14 Design
Complete, FY15 Construction
o Silver/Blue Line Mitigation (ART Fleet Expansion) (4
buses) – FY14 Revenue Service
o Crystal City Multimodal Center – FY14 Construction
Start
Fairfax City (total $5,000,000)
o Chain Bridge Road Widening/Improvements – FY14
Right of Way Acquisition (ROW) & Construction Start
Fairfax County (total $74,200,000)
o Route 28 Widening 6 to 8 lanes (SB from the Dulles
Toll Road to Route 50) – FY14 Design/Build
o Route 28 Widening 6 to 8 lanes (NB from McLearen
Road to Dulles Toll Road) – FY14 Design/Build
o Innovation Center Metrorail Station – FY14 Design/
Build
o Herndon Parkway Intersection Improvements at Van
Buren St. – FY14 ROW
o Herndon Parkway Intersection Improvements at Sterling Road – FY14 ROW
o Herndon Metrorail Intermodal Access Improvements
Herndon – FY14 ROW
According to the NV Transportation Authority there are a total
of 33 proposed projects throughout all of Northern Virginia.
Twelve are classified as roadway projects and twenty-one are
classified as transit/multimodal projects, representing a 58%
(roads) v. 42% (transit/multimodal) cost split. A Public Hearing will be held this month and the public may email their comments on the projects to: fy14projects@thenovaauthority.org.
VERA BRADLEY JULIA KNIGHT YEOWARD
Proposed projects for
FY 2014 in Alexandria,
Arlington, and Fairfax
Falls Church (total $1,700,000)
o Pedestrian Access to Transit – FY 14 Design Complete
o Funding for Bus Shelters – FY14 Construction Start
o Pedestrian Bridge at Van Buren Street – FY14 Design
Start
o W&OD Trail Lighting connecting to East Falls Church
Metro Station – FY14 Design Complete/Construction
Start
JULISKA
The Northern Virginia
Transportation Authority (NVTA) has announced their proposed
transportation projects
to be funded under the
Commonwealth’s landmark transportation bill.
It is estimated to bring
Northern Virginia $1.9
billion in new transportation funding over the
next six years.
BERNARDAUD
July 2013
12
ENDEAVOR
Reclaiming Annandale’s Historic Town Center
Creating a Catalyst for Development
By: Jeffrey Levine and M. Callahan
The Historic and Commercial Center of Annandale at the crossroads, 1946
Original Tollhouse circled in red. (Figure 2)
-start the much needed and highly
desired redevelopment of Annandale’s Central Business District.
Annandale Town Center, 2013 (Figure 3)
The creation of a true town center
is often the catalyst needed to
encourage redesign and redevelopment of the surrounding area.
Once one area is recreated, a
bridging effect often occurs.
Properties next door and across
the street see the impact and wish
to bridge, or tie, their future fortunes to the new development.
Historical Context: In early Colonial times, Northern Virginia
was predominantly rural, raw, and wild. Annandale was settled
in the late 17th century by planters relocating from the Tidewater region and newly arrived Europeans off ships that docked at
the Port of Alexandria. Annandale was included in the Northern Neck Proprietary owned by Lord Thomas Fairfax of Cameron, and inherited in the 1630’s through his maternal Culpeper
family. Lord Fairfax employed Robert “King” Carter as his
first resident land agent followed by his cousin, Colonel William Fairfax, who built one of the most beautiful early estate
homes, Belvoir. Lord Fairfax briefly stayed at Belvoir until
settling permanently in his Shenandoah Valley manor at Greenway Court. Fairfax lands ranged from the Shenandoah to the
South Branch of the Potomac Valley totaling 5,282,000 acres.
Higher end boutiques and eateries
are looking for new space in vibrant communities, but they prefer new construction or new reconstruction, at a minimum. Residents frequently complain about
the lack of both variety and quality of retail and dining options in
Annandale. Until new construction or complete reconstruction
takes place, and more office space
is put under lease, that variety is
unlikely to develop.
For Lord Fairfax to support his local expenses and a lavish lifestyle, and to maintain the costs of the family seat, Leeds Castle,
he sold some Virginia land to local planters and collected quit
rents on other parcels. In 1779, during the revolutionary war,
his lands were confiscated under the Virginia Act. Over the
next three decades, the Jamestown government provided land
grants to those who wished to homestead in Northern and Western Virginia. Many of these parcels were located on former
Fairfax land. Each homesteader was required to build a home
on the land, establish residency there, and plant the land within
three years. Some were able to avoid the residency requirement
by hiring resident land agents but most built their home and
their future on their newly acquired land.
Creating visual state- A key component of the Plaza
ments in urban settings im- Proposal is the incorporation of
urban design quick-fixes, which
proves the visual landscape.
The need then arose for the creation of highways. Planters
(farmers) from as far west as the Shenandoah needed to
transport their cash crops and herd livestock to market. The
trails from areas around Snickersville, and what is now Middleburg, led through gaps in the local hills to the ford on the Little
River, at Aldie. It was here that the first toll road was chartered
by the Virginia Assembly in 1796. It was named Little River
Principles of Urban Design
Traffic engineers can
and should design safe cross
paths on streets where people
walk, park, shop, bicycle,
work, and drive.
Implementing projects
quickly using temporary materials helps inform the public and allows them to test the
design before permanent
materials are installed.
Quick Fixes can be utilized to provide for a more
pleasing
and
vibrant
streetscape until larger scale
development takes place.
This includes vivid landscaping of flowers and trees
which distract the eye from
ugly overhead wires and
endless unimaginative hardscape. Other quick fixes:
lights or projections, banners, locational signage,
flags. See page 15.
are significant physical enhancement that can be implemented
economically and quickly.
ENDEAVOR
July 2013
Possible long term development around the town center
with facades respecting the curve of the Plaza
Turnpike and ran from Aldie, VA to Alexandria with a tollhouse located every five miles. The one in Annandale was built
on the southeast corner of Little River and Ravensworth Road.
Additionally, in 1810, an Act of Congress incorporated a company to create three turnpikes out of Washington DC - one to
Baltimore, one to Montgomery Courthouse and one to the
Southwest; the latter being Columbia Pike. Columbia Pike
provided a direct route into Washington, avoiding the detour
through Alexandria.
This historic crossroads became the center of the Annandale
community which grew around the toll house similar to today’s
business developments found at major highway intersections.
Today’s Exxon, Holiday Inn, and Cracker Barrel were yesterdays livery, traveler’s inn and general store. ( See page 16)
Why were toll roads developed? Public maintenance was inadequate due to the heavy traffic generated by wagons and carriages, and government maintenance, in the early republic, was
impractical. Tolls were created simply to allow for improved
roadways. At each tollhouse the road was barred by a long pole
or pike stopping all rolling stock until the toll was paid. Each
was supervised by a toll keeper who acted as security guard,
custodian, handyman, representative and conduit to the turnpike
executives.
Current Situation: Figure 3 shows a current view of the Annandale Central Business District. How do you accommodate a
practical and visually identifiable town center into a limited
area? Small commercial establishments and larger amorphous
buildings are already established. The dramatic increase in
traffic and population has created visual clutter, wider roads,
and a proliferation of surface parking lots, as well as the loss of
a clearly defined town center.
13
Walkable streets are GREAT for business.
The historic town center at Toll
House park has been recognized
in the recent amendment to the
Fairfax County Comprehensive
Plan. However, the park’s scale,
layout and landscaping should be
improved to reflect its locational
importance and to create an undeniable impact. In the proposal as
seen on the cover of this magazine, buildings would be at a
scale accepting to pedestrians and
the vehicular traffic. The main
facades of these buildings would
face the major streets converging
on the center where the original
Toll House stood. (See Figure 2)
Principles of Urban Design
Streets are the most vital,
yet underutilized public spaces in cities. Streets play a
much larger role in public
life than that of thoroughfares. The life of a community should be designed to include public spaces as well as
channels for movement.
Cities have realized that
streets are an economic asset
as much as a functional element. Well-designed streets
generate higher revenues for
businesses and higher values
Fixes: for homeowners.
Urban Design Quick
Since most development takes a
long time to reach fruition, Figure
5 on page 15 demonstrates alternative approaches for creating
more immediate visual statements
in an urban setting.
One example can be seen in Figure 4. The After View of this
parking lot on Annandale Road at
Maple Place has been planted
with clusters of trees to distract
the eye from the abundance of
hardscape and unimaginative architecture. Color has been added
to the gable end of the building
and banners have been hung
along the street edges. The result
Transportation engineers
can work flexibility within the
building envelope of a street.
This includes moving curbs,
changing alignments, day
lighting corners, and redirecting traffic. Many city
streets were created in a
different era and need to be
reconfigured to meet new
needs. Street space can also
be reused for different purposes, such as pocket parks,
bicycle parking & pop-up
cafes.
July 2013
14
ENDEAVOR
Reclaiming Annandale’s Historic Town Center
continued
By: Jeffrey Levine & M. Callahan
Lamp post banners designed by students at Westwood College.
is a far more pleasing appearance at very little cost or disturbance.
Town Center Plaza Proposal: The concept aerial view on the
front page (Figure 1) indicates one approach for creating Annandale’s town center by simply respecting the historical context and using urban design quick fixes. Figure 2 provides an
over head view of Annandale in about 1946 where the layout
of the buildings focused, even then, on the convergence of Columbia Pike and Annandale Road. Early in Annandale’s modern age, there was limited traffic and building development
beyond the boundaries of the historic town center. Now, commercial space proliferates in all directions.
The goal of this Proposal is to create a visually-defined circle,
spanning across Little River Turnpike, with a landmark, such as
the Annandale Flag at its center. This is the exact historical
intersection of Annandale Road, Little River, and Columbia
Pike. The circle would be emphasized by a new colored surface on the road, and on the surface of the pedestrian plaza.
New trees would be planted at the perimeter with additional
benches and possibly pieces of public art. Finally, the facades
of new buildings should respect the curve of the new Plaza and
serve to reinforce it. No existing buildings would be demolished. Finally, Tollhouse Park would be modified with a new
pedestrian path centered on the original axis with Annandale
Road.
This project could be implemented by working closely with the
Virginia Department of Transportation and Fairfax County
through elected officials and representatives; with funding
through community improvement/art grants; and, eliciting
community sponsorship of brick pavers, benches and trees.
Additionally, since this public improvement could act as a
catalyst for future development, developers would be asked for
contributions.
The Annandale Town Center Plaza would make a dynamic
public space, create higher revenues for surrounding businesses, provide a safer crossing over Little River Turnpike, and can
be developed with the expertise of transportation and urban
engineers as well as proactive community members and elected
officials. Most importantly, it can be implemented quickly.
To kick start revitalization in Annandale’s CBD, it is necessary
to convince developers that their considerable investment is
going into a community that welcomes the redevelopment, and
is willing to bind their history to a vibrant and modern future.
Before and After Urban Design Quick Fixes - Figure 4
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
15
Creating a true town center may
help to send that message, while
establishing a catalyst for development.
Contact:
info@annandalechamber.com
with any thoughts or comments.
View more articles on Revitalization at
www.annandalechamber.com/
cbdrevitalization.rhtml
Double Pink Knock Out
Knock-Out Roses, Crepe Myrtle Trees, and colorful annuals
beautify the Annandale Shopping Center
**
See Proposal
Below
Urban Design Quick Fixes
Figure 5: Above are samples of how creating visual statements in urban settings improves the visual landscape. Most redevelopments take a long time to reach fruition. In the meantime, lights or projections, banners, locational signage, flags, lush landscaping extending even onto vertical surface will add color and soften the over
abundant hardscape; and adding repetitive elements such as benches, tables, and kiosks will create the desire to linger.
PROPOSAL for Commercial Property Owners: Plant pink or red knock-out roses and crepe myrtle trees on your property. The trees will visually distract the eye
from the ugly overhead wires and the roses will help soften the hardscape as well as add a unified color palate to the commercial landscape.
16
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
Annandale’s Original Commercial District: Part II
By: M. Callahan
Until 1685, the crossroads site of Little River Turnpike, Annandale Road and Columbia Pike in Annandale was home to
an Indian Trading Post. Later, Col. William Fitzhugh acquired it along with 22,000 acres of land from the Governor
of Virginia, Lord Culpeper. After the American Revolution,
large parcels of land were granted by the colonial government
in Jamestown to homesteaders in Northern Virginia. Under
this arrangement, prospective owners were required to inhabit
the land and to seat and plant within three years. Fitzhugh’s
tract became known as the Ravensworth Plantation and Annandale was carved out of the northern portion. Much of the
land became available for sale or lease by the early 1800’s.
About the same time settlers from Scotland arrived who were
reminded of the Annan River and the community in their beloved dales. Thus, the name ANNANDALE was derived.
Here they found a rolling terrain of heavily forested land, rich
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Beauty Salon, Kiddie Shop, Mike’s Barber Shop
Sinclair Service Station
Annandale Variety Store & Iva Trice Dress Shop
Annandale Grill
Leeway Furniture Co.
Annandale Community Cab
Uhler Insurance & Real Estate
The first Safeway Grocery store, now occupied
by Bank of America
9. Willis Service Center, Esso Products and KaiserFrasier Sales
10. Tony’s Market
11. Annandale Dry Cleaners
12. Annandale Elementary School
soil, plentiful water sources, and abundant wildlife including
elk, white tail deer, beaver, and bear. With ample protein
sources for food, fresh water and hardwood forests, they had
found a perfect location on which to establish a community.
Clearing relatively small parcels of land (5-10 acres) was an
arduous but rewarding task since the soil here was fertile and
these fields would produce excellent crops. At that time and
even into the early 20th century, these small farmers raised
pigs as a consumable commodity as well as their cash commodity. They would plant corn and wheat to feed both livestock and family and diversify into trade rather than depend
on the volatile tobacco and cotton markets that drove the earlier and much larger colonial properties. Since raising cattle
requires large grazing pastures and additional fields in which
to plant hay for winter feeding, only small herds were kept.
Annandale farms were modest in size ranging from 10 to 160
13. Annandale Fire Department
14. Future site of Annandale Shopping Center
(1956)
15. Water storage towers operated by the Annandale Water Company
16. Future site of Giant Food (1962)
17. Home of Senator Omar Hirst
18. Bank of Annandale, McWhorter Surveyors &
Developers, Offices of Dr. Cooper, MD.
19. Mettauer Bros. General Store & Texaco,
Frank’s Caterette
20. The Annandale Market
21. Pike’s Pickens (gifts, novelties, ice cream)
22. Kerlin’s Korner (convenience store), Marie’s
School of Dance upstairs
23. EW Long Plumbing, Heating, Appliances,
Shoe Repair Shop
24. Ellicott’s 5 & $1.00 Store, Jay’s Family Clothiers, and Kirk’s Seafood Tavern
25. Star Supply Lumber and Hardware
26. Annandale Pharmacy, US Post Office, 1st
Pizza Parlor. From 1960-65 the George Mason
Library was also in this building and Iva Trice
Dress Shop moved here from the Variety Shop
Building replacing the Annandale Pharmacy.
ENDEAVOR
July 2013
17
Annandale of Old
acres. Instead, raising pigs became a wide spread practice from
Springfield to Tysons. Pigs require no grazing land, propagate
quickly, and can be kept in relatively small spaces. Consequently, pigs, goats, chickens, ducks, geese, the family cow or a
few, and the necessary work horses were the average livestock
found.
Many farmers were also trained craftsmen who built furniture
during the winters when fields did not need tending. In addition to the white oak, a plentiful supply of black cherry, poplar,
chestnut, hickory, and walnut trees grew locally. (1) A steam
driven sawmill was opened in the 1820’s by William Garges, a
Pennsylvania native who settled in Annandale around 1806. He
initially purchased 138 acres in what became the historic town
center and added up to eight more on the south side of Little
River in the years to come. There has been some debate as to
the site of his first steam driven sawmill but the most likely
location
was
the
southwest corner of
Little River at Backlick.(2)
A second
Garges mill was built
at what is now John
Marr and Little River.
This mill worked primarily on commissions for the long
anticipated Manassas
Gap Railroad. Although the filing and
leveling required for
the construction of the
rail bed was completed and beautiful stone
The Annandale Market on Little River -#20
continued page 27
Beauty Salon, Kiddie Shop, Mike’s Barber Shop on Little River - #1
Preston Thomas Sinclair Station at Little River & Annandale Road -#2
#11 Annandale Dry Cleaners on Columbia Pike - #11
Annandale Variety Store & Iva Trice Dress Shop
corner of Annandale Road & Columbia Pike -#3
July 2013
18
The Police Beat:
Have a safe and worry-free vacation
Fairfax County Police Dept.
ENDEAVOR
Summer Teas & Programs
at Green Spring Gardens Historic Manor House
(Entrance on Braddock Road across from Pinecrest Golf Course)
Going on vacation? When you secure
your home carefully, you can avoid
false alarms and break-ins. After cancelling your newspaper and either having your mail held at the Post Office or
having a friend pick it up, ask a neighbor to walk around your property daily
to be certain the house is secure and to
collect any solicitation flyers left on
your doorstep.
The Fairfax County Police also advise
avoiding false security alarms by heeding the following advice.

All key holders should know how to properly operate your
security alarm system and how to cancel accidental alarm
activations.

Ensure your contact list is up-to-date with your alarm company and the False Alarm Reduction Unit.

Advise your alarm company of your upcoming schedule and
how you can be reached during your vacation.

Advise the individuals on your emergency contact list of
your departure and arrival, plus obtain their availability to
respond to your home in your absence.

Ensure all doors and windows are locked and secure.

Annual maintenance to your alarm system can prevent false
alarms:

Alarm system batteries must operate for a minimum of four
(4) hours for power

outages (Section 8.1-3.5 of the County Code of Fairfax Security Alarm Systems)

Motion detectors are free of dirt and cobwebs

All window and door contacts are firmly in place
Traditional English Tea and Program
Programs are by reservation only and require a non-refundable prepayment.
A traditional full English tea is included in each tea program. For tea program reservations: 703-914-7987 or register online at www.greenspring.org.
Saturday,
July 20:
Ice Tea Tasting 10:30 AM to NOON
Go beyond your favorite store-bought iced tea and sample home-made iced
oolongs, greens and blended teas. Learn how to brew, drink, and spice up
this traditional summer thirst quencher of the American South and take home
innovative and sophisticated recipes to suit all tastes. $22
Sunday, July 21:
Victorian Ladies’ Accessories 1–3:30 PM.
The proper Victorian lady had various and sundry accoutrements that were
part of her wardrobe. Artist and collector Caroline Hottenstein explains how
etiquette, purpose, and occasion dictated the lady’s dress and accessory
choices. Caroline also displays nineteenth century shoes, stockings, gloves,
bonnets, fans, umbrellas, and more. Reservations required. $35 tea & program, $15 program only.
Sundays, July 28 and August 4th: Downton Abbey Takes on the Twenties 1:00-3:00 PM
Downton Abbey steps into the Roaring Twenties and must change with the
times. See how the characters, upstairs and downstairs, embrace or reject a
new society of dissolving institutions and new inventions: cars and cocktails,
radios and gramophones, aeroplanes and flapper girl fashions. Reservations
required. $29
Sundays, August 18 & 25: Pride and Prejudice-A 200 Year Love Affair
1-3 PM
Jane Austen’s masterpiece “Pride and Prejudice” turns 200 this
year but remains as fresh as ever. We’ll celebrate the novel that Austen
called “my own darling child” and discover why this story of love amongst
the country gentry enjoys such enduring appeal. Reservations required. $29
Garden Programs:
703-642-5173
Saturday, July 13: Summer Lawn Care 10-11:30 AM
Help your lawn and yourself to survive the long hot summer with tips on
watering and summer maintenance. Indoor presentation by turf specialist
Frank Reilly followed by outdoor 'field' discussion. Register on-line at
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring or call Green Spring Gardens 703
-642-5173 $12
Don’t Drink and Drive — Call a Cab
Cab Companies
TaxiVirginia:
Yellow Cab:
Checker Taxi:
Red Top Cab:
Blue Top Cab:
703-447-7677
703-534-1111
703-272-3995
703-522-3333
703-650-0894
Saturday, August 24 - 9am - 4:30pm Sunday
August 25 - 12-3:30pm: 31st Annual Begonia Show and Sale
Feast your eyes at this show sponsored by the Potomac Branch of the American Begonia Society. Expand your plant palette! Be tempted with splashes of
color for homes and greenhouses that last long after frosts have put our outdoor gardens to bed! The sale offers a wide variety of begonias, including
subtropical species. Free
This is just a partial listing of programs.
For Garden Program reservations and details call: 703-941–7987
or go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp
ENDEAVOR
July 2013
19
Concerts in the Parks
Fairfax County Park Authority
Spotlight by Starlight is a free summer concert series presented
by the Fairfax County Park Authority at Mason District Park.
All performances are on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday beginning at 7:30 PM. Performances for children are held on Saturdays beginning at 10 AM. A full schedule of children programs
will be available after May 1st at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/
performances. In the event of inclement weather, call 703-324SHOW after 6 p.m. for performance cancellation updates.
JULY
3
Ruthie & the Wranglers (Country)
5
Sine Qua Non (Tran/Soul)
7
David Peterson Old-time Country (Country)
10 Alexandria Kleztet (Jazz/Jewish)
12 John Jorgenson Quintet (Gypsy Jazz)
14 The Capitol Steps (Satirical Revue)
17 The Grandsons (Rockability)
19 Swampcandy (Blues/Country)
21 David Cole and Main Street Jazz (Blues)
24 The Jed Duvall as Sir Paul (Paul McCartney Tribute Band)
26 Mary Ann Redmond (Pop/Rock
28
Incendio (Latin)
31 Cathy Ponton King (Blues)
Mason District Park
6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003
703-941-1730
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances
Running through August 31st, Braddock Nights takes place at
6:00 p.m. on Saturdays at Ossian Hall Park, between Heritage
Drive and Annandale High School, where you will be able to
enjoy FREE live music.
Celebrate the community’s cultural diversity with dance and
music from at least eight different nations. Each group will be
wearing lavish native costumes, make-up, and styling. Bring
friends, food and the family and be ready for a fun, relaxing
evening. Lawn seating is available in abundance or bring your
own chair.
JULY
6 TBA by May 1st 703-324-SHOW
13 TBA by May 1st 703-324-SHOW
20 TBA by May 1st 703-324-SHOW
27 Bolivian Cultural Heritage Night (Dance/Music)
AUGUST
3 Vietnamese Cultural Heritage Night (Dance/Music)
10 Korean Cultural Heritage Night (Dance/Music)
17 TBA by May 1st 703-324-SHOW
24 Peruvian Cultural Heritage Night (Dance/Music)
31 TBA by May 1st 703-324-SHOW
Ossian Hall Park
7900 Heritage Drive, Annandale, VA 22003
703-324-SHOW
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances
July 2013
20
ENDEAVOR
TAX TALK
TAX FILING DEVELOPMENTS
Part II
See: ENDEAVOR, April 2013 to review Part I
IRS CONSIDERS REPORTING TAX
DEBTS TO CREDIT BUREAUS
In a move that has consumer advocates worried, Congress is
considering allowing the IRS to report tax debts to credit bureaus. In preparation for Congressional consideration, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently prepared a report analyzing factors that Congress should consider before it
makes this move. Although other federal agencies report nontax debts to credit bureaus, the IRS is not allowed to do so
because long-standing federal law protects the privacy of taxpayers' information. The IRS is, however, allowed to file tax
liens on some tax debts, and these liens are public records that
are picked up by credit bureaus and included in the credit history information they compile.
The American Taxpayer Relief Act
The following is a quick summary of The American Tax Relief
Act as passed by Congress and signed by the President. Detailed reports will follow.
The following provisions are extended retroactively to
1/1/2012 through 12/31/2013:
The following provisions have been made permanent and
will not sunset after 2012 as scheduled:
1. §63 Standard Deduction amounts for married taxpayers
filing a joint return will continue to be double the amount of
a single taxpayer and taxpayers filing Married Separate will
have a Standard Deduction which is 1/2 of a married couple
filing a joint return.
2. §55(d) AMT relief for the AMT exemption amount is
AMT Exemption
Filing Status
2012
2013
Single/
Head of Household
$50,600
$51,900
Married
Joint
$78,750
$80,750
Married
Separate
$39,375
$40,375
reinstated retroactive to January 1, 2012 and will be indexed to inflation. The amounts for 2012 and 2013 based
on filing status will be as follows:
1. §164(b)(5) State and Local Sales Tax Deduction on Schedule A.
3.
§24 Child Tax Credit (CTC) $1,000 exemption per eligible child before AGI phase-out. (Note: The refundable
portion for excess earned income only extended though
2017)
4.
§23 Adoption Credit and §137 Exclusion for Employer
Assisted Adoption.
§408(d)(8) Qualified Charitable Distributions for IRA
RMD.
5.
§21 Dependent Care Credit remains @ $600 for first 2
qualifying dependents: Expenses capped @ $3,000.
6. §168(e)(3)(E) Qualified Leasehold/Retail Improvements,
and Restaurant Property, 15 Year Recovery Period.
6.
§530 Coverdell Education Savings Plan Contribution
remains @ $2,000.
7. §25C Energy Credits for Individuals of $500.
7.
8. §222 Deduction for Qualified Tuition and Fees ($2,000/
$4,000).
§127 Employer Provided Education Assistance Exclusion up to $5,250.
8.
§221 Student Loan Interest Deduction the 60 month
limitation rule has been permanently repealed.
2. §62(a)(2)(D) Teachers Classroom Expense Deduction of
$250 on Page 1 of Form 1040.
3. §163(h)(3)(E)(iv) Mortgage Insurance Premium Deduction
on Schedule A.
4. §132(f) Tax-Free Transit Benefits Provided by Employers.
5.
The following provisions were scheduled to expire after 2012
but have been extended through 2013:
1. §168(k) 50% Bonus Depreciation.
2.
§179 Expense Deduction Election up to $500,000.
The following provisions were scheduled to sunset after
2012 but are made permanent for all taxpayers except those
in the 39.6% income tax bracket:
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
21
TAX TALK
TAX FILING DEVELOPMENTS
1. Long-term Capital Gains and Dividend Rates remain @ a
zero bracket for those taxpayers in a 10% and 15%
bracket with a maximum of 15% on those above 15%.
Those taxpayers in a 39.6% income tax bracket will
have a maximum long-term Capital Gain rate of 20%
and their qualified dividends will be taxed at 39.6%.
Note: §1250 Unrecaptured Depreciation will still have a
maximum 25% rate for all taxpayers and collectibles
will have a 28% long-term Capital Gain rate.
2.
§1 Individual Income Tax Rates have been made permanent except for those high income taxpayers with taxable
income above certain amounts as follows who will have
a maximum rate of 39.6% in 2013:
Filing Status
Amount
Single
>
$400,000
Head of Household >
$425,000
Married Joint
>
$450,000
Married Separate
>
$225,000
2013 Taxable Incomes and Bracket Threshold Limits*
28%
33%
35%
39.6%
$183,250
$398,350
$398,350
>$400,000
Head of
$12,750
Household
$48,600 $125,450 $203,150
$398,350
$398,350
>$425,000
Married
Joint &
Surviving
Spouse
$17,850
$72,500 $146,400 $223,050
$398,350
$398,350
>$450,000
Married
Separate
$8,925
$36,250 $73,200
$111,525
$199,175
$199,175
>$225,000
Estates &
Trust
N/A
$2,450
$8,750
$11,950
N/A
>$11,950
Single
15%
25%
$8,925
$36,250 $87,850
$5,700
2.
§151 Phase-out of Personal Dependency Exemption:
Same as §68.
Filing Status
Threshold
Married Couples &
Surviving Spouses
$300,000
Head of Household
$275,000
Single
$250,000
Married Separate
$150,000
1. §32 EIC simplified definition of earned income, reform of
the relationship test and modification of tie breaking rule.
The following provisions are subject to sunset rules with
amendments:
10%
§68 Itemized Deductions on Phase-out for high income
taxpayers.
The following provisions were scheduled to expire after 2012
but have been extended through 2017.
1Note: There will not be a 36% bracket as would have resulted with the sunset provisions of the 2001 Act.
2Note: Trust and Estate will no longer have a 35% bracket.
It is replaced by 39.6%.
Filing
Status
1.
2.
§25A American Opportunity Credit on Form 8863.
The following provision was scheduled to expire after 2012
but has been extended through 2013.
§108(a)(1)(E) Home Mortgage Debt Relief Exclusion from
Gross Income: Qualified Principal Residence Debt.
George H. Kresslein CPA . www.kressleincpa.com
5155 Piedmont Place . Annandale, VA 22003
703-354-1750 . gkresslein@kressleincpa.com
July 2013
22
ENDEAVOR
New Members Spotlight
Trust Properties-Greg Mcgillicuddy JB Investigations Security Services
New Chairman, Annandale CBD Planning Committee
Trust Properties was founded in 1994 and is committed to
providing a broad range of Commercial Real Estate Services
throughout the Greater Washington DC Metropolitan area.
Staffed by knowledgeable, experienced and dedicated career
professionals, Trust Properties takes pride in delivering impeccable levels of service and exceptional results to their clients
and customers. Trust Properties can provide support for any of
the below real estate services:
 Improved Property and Land Sales
 Office/retail/medical/flex/industrial leasing
 Targeted Confidential Acquisitions
 Tenant Representation & Commercial Property Management
 Investment Placement/Disposition
 Construction Management and Project Development
 Financing Placement and Valuation Studies
Greg McGillicuddy is a Vice President and Principal Broker at
Trust Properties, and one of the most knowledgeable brokers in
local real estate. Greg has more than 26 years of experience in
the sales and leasing of office, retail and industrial properties
and has managed more than two million square feet of properties in the Greater Metro area. Greg is a licensed broker in
Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia and recently
was appointed Chairman of the Annandale Central Business
District Planning Committee after serving as their Land Use
Sub-Committee Chairman for ten years. Greg has taken an
active interest in Annandale’s future, her commercial revitalization and has been a regular sponsor of both the Annual Hospital Bed Race and the Annandale Fall Festival.
Trust Properties
Gregory McGillicuddy
Phone: 703-392-0002 ext. 20
Cell:
703-625-0714
Email: GMcGillicuddy@TrustPropertiesInc.com
JB Investigations provides investigative services on individuals
and entities. They also locate missing persons, documents or
goods. They will report the habits, character, activities, reliability, of individuals and investigate the credit or financial conditions of any person, firm, association, or corporation. JB Investigations has an extraordinary depth of experience and share the
vision of their client’s needs.
With a practical common sense approach, JB Investigations
brings a timely conclusion to all matters. They conduct and
investigate every legitimate inquiry, whether civil, criminal,
social, or individual.
Their Annandale office also serves as the Security Training
Academy where they conduct on-going classes. The objective
of the Security Training Academy is to consistently provide
state of the art training to its students. The training content of
the curriculum reflects the currently accepted practices and procedures of the Department of Criminal Justice Services, and
Private Security.
Visit their website for a complete listing of their many services
at www.jbissi.com.
Joseph Bonacci
703-916-8411
7263 Maple Place, Suite #203
Annandale, VA 22003
joseph @jbissi.com
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
23
Members Spotlight
Burke and Herbert Bank
Falls Church High School
Meet their New Assistant Manager—WELCOME
Governor's Health Sciences Academy to be Established at
Falls Church High School - CONGRATULATIONS
Caryl Pereyra-Michael has recently been appointed as Assistant Manager of Burke and Herbert’s Annandale Branch joining Pat Leugers, Manager, and a team of dedicated and service
oriented employees.
Fairfax County Public Schools proudly announced that the Virginia Board of Education and Virginia Department of Education have approved a proposal to establish Governor’s Health
Sciences Academies at Falls Church Academy and West Potomac Academy. Falls Church Academy and West Potomac
Academy are two of the six high school academies in Fairfax
County public schools.
Caryl originally joined Burke and Herbert Bank, in August
2004 as a teller at the Main Office in Alexandria, just two
weeks before her Annandale predecessor, Hector Ochoa came
onboard. Hector and Caryl worked together at the Main office
as tellers and then customer service representatives until 2007.
Within months of each other, they became assistant managers.
Hector has beat Caryl to a Branch Manager’s position but she
wishes him well.
Since 2007, Caryl has been an Assistant Manager at the Kingstowne and Fairlington branches where she actively participated
in community events and plans to do the same in Annandale.
She is well versed in both the bank’s business and personal
products and is eager to help you with loans, mortgages and
wealth management.
Annandale welcomes Caryl and bids Hector a temporary farewell. He will return in October to help with the Annandale Fall
Festival as facilities manager. As soon as Caryl has had time
to settle into her new position, the Chamber hopes
to involve her in our major events and networking
activities. Best wishes to
them both. Give Caryl a
call with your banking
needs at 703-519-1627.
The Governor’s Health Sciences Academies will offer Career
and Technical Education (CTE) Health Sciences courses to
students interested in pursuing careers in the health care
field. Students will be able to take courses in the following
career pathways: Therapeutic Services, Diagnostic Services,
Health Informatics, Support Services, and Biotechnology Research and Development. Several of the courses offered at the
academies will provide the opportunity for students to earn industry certifications and dual enrollment college credits.
The academies’ students and staff members will continue to
work with business and community partners including health
care institutions, higher education institutions, local government, and economic development entities. These partnerships
allow the academies to provide rich workforce development
experiences for students and build a strong, skilled network of
future health care professionals.
Students from any Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) high
school will be able to enroll in the courses currently offered at
the Governor’s Health Sciences Academies for the 2013-14
school year.
For more information please contact:
Falls Church Academy
Where Skilled Scholars Thrive
Jill Burrer
Burke & Herbert Bank
4235 Annandale Road
Annandale, VA 22003
cpereyra@burkeandherbertbank.com
Career Experience Specialist
7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042
(703) 207-4244 . fax (703) 207-4197
http://www.fcps.edu/fallschurchacademy
FCHS is a member of the Chamber’s Healthcare Consortium
July 2013
24
ENDEAVOR
VIEW ON NATURE
Plants Need a Press Agent
By: Suzanne Holland, Asst. Manager, Hidden Oaks Nature Center
Plants are like the Hollywood elite. Some are unfairly maligned,
possessing both inner and outer beauty. A few are unsung heroes who create harmony, unfettered by fanfare. Yet others are
flashy and beautiful, but their true nature reveals a poisonous
core. Unable to hire a public relations firm, plants depend on
cultural and natural historians, and educated gardeners to set the
record straight. Step into a typical Fairfax County backyard and
you will likely find several misunderstood plants.
Several of our spring standards prove that looks may deceive.
William Wordsworth immortalized daffodils which bloomed in
abundance on hillsides. Maybe the poet was unaware that the
bulbs of these, as well as narcissus, are toxic if eaten, causing a
range of ailments from nausea to diarrhea. Another pretty star is
the buttercup. Putting a buttercup under the chin to see if someone likes butter originally had the flower touch the skin. If the
skin showed a red patch, then the person liked a little bit of butter on their bread. The chemicals in the flower can cause dermatitis. The problem is worse for grazing animals that can become
severely ill from eating fresh buttercups. The chemicals do give
the flower a bad taste so animals usually avoid the flower. Tulips combine both issues with a skin irritant plus a toxic bulb
which, if eaten, could cause convulsions! Pokeweeds, with their
New York Fern—Photo by Don Sweeney, FCPA
pink-streaked stalk and purple-red berries are a hazard in the
yard. Eating a few berries can make a child seriously ill. Most of
the plant is toxic, especially upon maturity. Wildlife enjoys the
fruit, but then spread the seeds around. Consider removing this
plant before the tap root is hard to pull free from the ground, and
planting the area with a wildlife and kid-friendly alternative.
Several plants are sold in local nurseries which would be better
left on the shelf. English ivy may be synonymous with top notch
Goldenrod—Photo by Don Sweeney, FCPA
Ivy League education, but planting English ivy is not a smart
choice. English ivy quickly spreads and was often historically
chosen for stabilizing soil on a steep hillside. Oftentimes, the
thick mat of leaves disguise the erosion still occurring under the
plants. When ivy grows up trees and buildings, the root hairs
wrench their way into their host and can eventually topple the
tallest tree and crumble brick and wood. Instead, plant ostrich,
Christmas, New York, and sensitive ferns to stabilize a slope.
These native plants provide the root system needed to hold soil
in place, spread easily, and are native to our region. Another
must-avoid is porcelain berry, a native of Asia. The lovely
shades of blue and purple berries cannot compensate for their
rapid spread and resistance to removal. Birds love the fruit and
spread the low protein seeds far and wide. These seeds cover
native plants and trees, quickly creating a monoculture.
Some plants need the horticultural equivalent of several talk
show appearances to share their side of the story. One group of
plants suffering from an undeserved attack on their reputation is
the Solidagos, or goldenrods. This common native wildflower is
wildly popular with the bees and butterflies, but thought to cause
sneezing fits in humans. Many people may suffer from allergies,
or hay fever, caused by ragweed pollen. However, goldenrods’
pollen is sticky and relies on flying insects, not the wind, to travel between plants.
Surprisingly, poison ivy even has some merit. The potent oil
urushiol is present in all parts of the plant. Given enough time
and exposure, most humans will experience a skin reaction. The
berries of the plant feed over 50 species of native birds while the
leaves are devoured by deer. Whereas poison ivy is native to our
area, poison oak is not. There are several species of plants that
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
have leaflets in sets of three, but to be safe, avoid touching them
all!
A quiet but common set of local heroes are the vibernums. For a
hardy plant, this one has it all – beauty of flowers and berries, a
food source for local species, ease of growth even in shade, and
an abundance of varieties. Some, such as the maple leaf vibernum hold onto their berries late into fall and early winter
providing needed sustenance to overwintering birds and mammals. Some species even have edible berries.
If you want a plant for a healthy snack, look no further than the
dandelion. All parts of this plant are edible and herbalists consider each part to have a medicinal value. The flowers and
young leaves can be eaten raw in a salad. Older greens require
cooking and roots require roasting for consumption. Just make
sure you select dandelions that have not been sprayed or
stomped on or visited by passing pets!
Take a stroll in your backyard and enjoy the blooms. To learn of
native alternatives to invasive or alien species, visit
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring/ and click on gardening in the menu box. Scroll through options for trees, bushes
and ornamentals that are particularly useful at attracting birds
and butterflies, are tolerant of shade or just have lovely blooms.
As you recognize the plants for what they are, a bully or a beauty, you can decide for which you cast your vote for the honor of
being invited to live in your backyard.
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
7701 Royce Street
Annandale, VA 22003
703-941-1065
One block west of Hummer Road
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-oaks
TREE SERVICES
Removal—Topping—Trimming—Cabling—Weight Reduction
Filling Cavities—Firewood for Sale—Stump Removal
TIM W. FRAZIER
1-888-TRE-TRIM
(1-888-873-8746) Toll Free
LANDSCAPING SERVICES
Edging & Mulching—Seeding & Sodding—Top Soil
Lot Cleaning—Trimming Bushes & Hedges
FULLY INSURED and SATISFACTION GUARANTEED
25
26
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
Reviving a 70 Year Old Site
The Annandale Grill then the Sunset Grill, what’s next?
By: M. Callahan
Over the past 70 years, little has changed to the structure located at 7250 Columbia Pike. It is best known for being home to
Tom Westin’s and then the Sunset Grille. After a devastating
fire at Tom Westin’s more than 30 years ago, a 12 foot extension was added to the rear of the structure. Otherwise, the
building remains much the same.
For now, the New York Pizza Factory continues to operate under their current lease, while the other two store fronts are experiencing a full renovation. Property owners, Mohamed Uddin
and Hassan Iqbal of Alexandria, will continue construction on
this 5,400 square foot structure over the summer, once the county permitting process is complete. They have set an optimistic
November completion date.
Harry Lee of NBI Realty is spearheading development and will
manage leasing upon completion. The Annandale Commercial
Business District Planning Committee has approved the proposed design for landscaping and exterior lighting, sending the
plans onto the county for final approvals.
As seen in the above sketch, a glass atrium will be built atop the
eastern unit, flooding light to the space below. Tenants have
not been identified, but since the property enjoys C-8 zoning,
anything from a retail business to a business office or a restaurant to a bakery could be accommodated.
When given the opportunity, the Annandale Chamber and the
Annandale Planning Committee eagerly discuss and encourage
commercial property owners to acquire tenants who will provide the products and services most requested by the Annandale community. We all know that another drug store is NOT
needed, while family friendly amenities are. Children’s clothing and toys, women’s boutique clothing, and top drawer home
accessories are all retailers everyone in the zip code desires. According to 25 years of community surveys, a specialty
grocer remains at the very top of the wish list.
Fresh Market, Ellwood Thompson, or Trader Joe’s would
be most welcome and strongly supported by the community. There is a recently remodeled, large and beautiful
space waiting further down Columbia Pike.
See
www.annandaleshoppingcenter.com for more information.
Considering Annandale’s demographics, especially high incomes, high education levels, and high home ownership levels,
this wish list should be a reality by now.
To see Annandale’s demographics and other useful information, go
to: www.annandalechamber.com
The Annandale Planning Committee encouraged the owners to
consider a home grown version of Noodles and Company or
Panera’s. Unfortunately, Annandale does not have enough
square feet of office space under lease (or even built) that would
meet the minimum requirements to attract either of these chain
restaurants, but a home grown version is always possible. What
Annandale needs are family friendly restaurants with quality
soups, salads, and sandwiches for the lunch crowd and well
prepared comfort food for families in the evenings.
Construction continues at 7250 Columbia Pike
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
27
Annandale of Old
continued
trestles were built over some of the creeks, the railroad was
never completed. Between the outbreak of the Civil War
and depletion of capital, the rails never left Alexandria and
the project was abandoned. Had the railroad come through
Annandale, it would have crossed Little River at or near
John Marr Drive, headed north, then west behind the current Fire House and the former Annandale Elementary
School, through the Annandale Community Park, and into
Fairfax. Unfortunately, the closest rail service ever came to
Annandale was the Burke Station.
Garges, an Ironmonger and Ferrier by training, established a
smithy and livery business at his homestead along Little
River where Walgreen’s is being built. Essential farming
tools, such as plow blades, shovels, and picks were crafted
at the Garges forge. Household implements and decorative accessories were also made. Pots and pans, nails, latch-
Plow and Wagon Factory
Homestead, Smithy & Livery
es & hinges, drawer pulls, and cooking implements were
typical products. Garges and his sons also operated a Traveler’s Inn on the northeast corner of Little River and Backlick and established a plow and wagon factory in the 1840’s
on the south side. Commercial enterprises popped-up
throughout The Triangle but the Garges family must be
credited with establishing the first of many.
(1)
The great find in Annandale forests was the abundant white oak
which was used to build homes, wagons, floors, rail and posts, and
when seasoned, become excellent firewood since it produces not just
light but tremendous heat. It was utilized again during WWII when
heating fuel was expensive and carefully rationed. Most Annandale
homeowners closed off all but essential rooms in their homes and
heated by fireplace using white oak whenever possible.
(2) A colonial era sawmill was located on the southeast corner of Little
River at Backlick, predating the Garges mill.
Traveler’s Inn
Sawmills
1860 land ownership in Annandale’s Downtown superimposed over current developments with approximate locations of cited businesses.
28
July 2013
ENDEAVOR
Kenwood School & Summer Day Camp
Close, Convenient and One of the Very Best
Kenwood School was
established in 1957 as
a private elementary
school and has been
helping children maximize their full potential ever since. Reviews from parents on
the Annandale Patch
website
tell
us,
“Kenwood is the best keep secret in the area.” A comforting
home-like setting encourages a creative learning environment.
Kenwood has tenured staff, small classes and personalized attention. Kenwood actually began as an addition to the Grasshopper Green Preschool founded in 1939 which is one of the
oldest preschools in Virginia. Both are located on the same
park like setting. Kenwood has been a Families Magazine
“Readers Choice” finalist for the best private school for consecutive years.
Throughout
the
years,
Kenwood
has
consistently
updated our curriculum to meet the
needs of the day,
which is one reason they currently
focus on computers
and computer usage. Despite their
modern approach, they still believe in traditional education
which includes the integration of reading, writing, oral language and spelling. Manners and strong social skills are developed in every day interactions. They proudly say the Pledge of
Allegiance every morning and support the community through
various charities, including Toys for Tots.
Kenwood’s extensive curriculum surpasses that of Fairfax
County and includes everything from reading, math, science
and computers. Instruction in Music, Spanish, Computers and
Physical Education are taught by specialized teachers. They
offer soccer, dance,
karate and gymnastics to enrich your
child’s experience.
Kenwood
offers
Before and After
School care for
working parents, a
Holiday camp, and
one of the most
highly recommended
Summer Camps in the area.
Throughout the year Kenwood hosts a number of
special events including
their much loved Invention
Convention, Fall Festival
and Science Fair.
Kenwood Summer Day Camp - Your child will truly find
their place at Kenwood’s extraordinary summer camp. They
offer fun activities for students from kindergarten to 8th grade,
so kids can spend every day of their summer doing crafts, playing games, and taking fun
fascinating field trips.
Trust them, your child
will never be bored at this
unique summer camp
where enrollment is available in weekly increments. That means you
choose the weeks you
want to attend to fit your
schedule.
Kenwood has open enrollment available. Please contact them
for information. School: ages 2 years through 6 th grade. Summer Camp: ages completed Kindergarten through 8th grade.
Visit their website for
special offers.
Kenwood School &
Summer Day Camp
4955 Sunset Lane
Annandale, VA 22003
703.256.4711
www.kenwoodschool.com
www.camp.kenwoodschool.com
ENDEAVOR
Chamber Chat:
July 2013
29
News, notices & bulletins posted by
Annandale Chamber Members
The Annandale Shopping Center is pleased to announce that we have
a new website where you will find news and announcements about our
shops and businesses. You can also join our mailing list to receive
advanced notice of our events and special offerings at
www.annandaleshoppingcenter.com. Join us for National Night Out
with activities for the entire family on August 6th. See our website
for details. Feature film will be shown.
American Disposal Services: In 2011, American Disposal Services,
Inc. launched a company-wide initiative to increase recycling participation for all customers we service. This campaign operates under the
name, ThinkBeforeYouThrow®. As a result, we no longer think of
ourselves as a trash company, but rather, a recycling company with a
trash problem. We proudly service Residential, Commercial, Roll-off,
and Compactors. Contact 703-368-0500 or info@adsimail.com. Follow
us!@AmDisposal or, visit us at www.facebook.com/americandisposal
AnnSandra We represent over 70 of the finest lines of tabletop-china
and giftware in the US from exquisite to whimsical. We are also
pleased to offer shipping and custom gift wrapping services.
4417 John Marr Drive. www.annsandra.com . 703-354-2110
Annandale Boys & Girls Club Sign up for email alerts or text “follow
annandalebgc” to 40404 on your cell phone for text alerts. Twitter at
https://twitter.com/#!/AnnandaleBGC Facebook at www.facebook.com/
#!/AnnandaleBCG
703-941-ABGC
(2242).
LinkedIn
at
www.linkedin.com/company/annandale-boys-&-girls-club and our new
Blog ABGC
Annandale Volunteer Fire Department provides an exciting bingo
game and lots of opportunities to win every Thursday and other special
times throughout the year. Doors open 4:30pm – Early Birds start at
6:45pm – Regular Session starts at 8:00pm. See AVFD BINGO special
events. Must be 14 yrs. of age to play, ATM machine available. Bingo
Hotline is 703-941-1328.
Arden Courts of Annandale is a memory care assisted living community designed exclusively for persons living with dementia. Our layout
includes 4 self-contained houses and outdoor living space allowing
residents to walk outside in a safe environment. We provide 10 hours
of programming daily and 24/7 personal care assistance. Our staff is
trained and continually educated on caring for residents with dementia. For more information contact Pam Phillips, Marketing Director or
Executive Director, Fannie Halton 703-256-0882 or 571-340-2576.
Artisans United Gallery: offers a great selection of crafts by local
Artisans. Stop by for a unique gift or to discuss having a demonstration given to your organization. A wide variety of gifts under $35 for
all occasions just off Hummer Road in the Packard Center of the Annandale Community Park. 703-941-0202.
Burke & Herbert Bank: Is your child in high school or college? Get
them on the path to solid financial management with Burke & Herbert
Bank’s Student Banking Package. Our package combines checking
with savings, a debit card and more. Let us help make banking, easy,
convenient and rewarding. Our team at Annandale Road is ready to
help your student! Stop by our Annandale Road branch, 4235 Annandale Road today. Member FDIC. When you stop by, say hello to our
new Assistant Branch Manager, Caryl Pereya-Michael. Member FDIC.
703-519-1627.
Cardinal Bank: Teach your children to save and develop good money
management skills with the Cardinal Kid’s Club Savings account. Earn
a higher interest rate on balances up to $1000. No minimum balance
requirement and no monthly maintenance fee. Stop by at 4115 Annandale Rd. to learn more on our promotional interest rate accounts. Member FDIC.” (703) 584-3877
Capital Caring: Our Grief Support Groups provide expert hospice and
palliative services available for those who qualify. Anyone can place a
referral to Capital Caring @ 1.800.869.2136. We also provide InService and educational presentations. Drop-In Groups (no registration
required) and 8 k. Support Groups offered. www.capitalcaring.org
Cosmetic Hearing Solutions is the leader in discrete and overall hearing aid technology in the Northern Virginia area. Specialized training,
superior service, and affordability are just a few of the factors that allow
us to rise above the rest. 6715 Little River Turnpike, Suite 203, Annandale. 571-257-2560.
Edsall Park Exxon: 6550 Edsall Road, Alexandria, VA 22312 703-752
-1111 Friendly and professional services for private or company vehicles. www.edsallparkexxon.com
ENDEAVOR Advertise in ENDEAVOR, Annandale’s popular news
magazine. Stay in touch with local happenings, learn more about Annandale’s history, discover new business enterprises, and celebrate
events in Annandale.
Read current and past issues at
www.annandalechamber.com For information about advertising rates
(discounted to Chamber members) email:
advertise@annandalechamber.com
Lee’s Hapmudo Martial Arts Studio: School age, Teen, Adult Classes and Special class for ages 3-5 years are all offered. We have Beginner & Advanced Martial Arts, Anti-Bully, Exercise & Flexibility,
Weapons Training, and Summer & Spring Camps, After School Programs and more. Please contact 703-750-3330 or see our website at
www.hapmudo.net.
7036
Columbia
Pike,
Annandale
NARFE - The Annandale Chapter of the National Association of
Active/Retired Federal Employees invites you to join us at a "Meet
the Candidates Forum" on Wednesday, October 2 ndat 10:00 a.m. The
forum will be held at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507
Columbia Pike. Check our website at www.narfe.org/chapter1159 for a
listing of the local candidates who will attend as races for the upcoming
local elections are fixed and campaigning begins.
PRO Maxx Fitness is a family and community-oriented eco-friendly
gym. Club membership is not required to take advantage of one-on-one
and group personal training, Olympic-style weightlifting coaching,
therapeutic massage options, aerobics classes and more. The current
drop-in fee to attend aerobics classes including Zumba is $7. Our Pro
personal trainers have developed new fitness programs slated for April
such as Knock Out training, an Outdoor Boot Camp and Beach Your
Body Up training sessions. Visit www.promaxxfitness.com for details.
Rice & Spice Thai Restaurant: Traditional Thai Cuisine tested to
perfection by owner Natalie and Chef Rod. Family favorite street dishes in a attractive & sleek modern atmosphere. Dine-In, Carry out and
Delivery within 3 mile radius. Plaza at Landmark just 6 minutes away.
6244 K Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312 . 703-750-1084
www.ricespiceva.com
30
July 2013
Chamber Chat
best viewed site in Annandale. Looking for Shopping and Restaurant
ideas, news about Revitalization, local activities or resources. Go to
www.annandalechambe.com; all this information and more. For
advertising information contact advertise@annandalechamber.com or
see the rate and specification sheet on the chamber website. Looking
to attract local customers? Place an ad on this site for the best niche
marketing in the region.
Shear Shack Salon & Spa is the premier salon and spa in Northern
Virginia. We offer a spectrum of personalized services to our guests,
including creative hair design; precision threading and rejuvenating
nail and skin treatment. As our guests can attest, our talented stylists
and therapists guarantee a superior experience for every client, every
time, at an affordable price. 6548 Little River Tpk. (Pinecrest Shopping Center) 703-642-1113. Visit Harjeet’s Boutique (in the upper
loft of Shear Shack) while you are here. Delicate jewelry, silk
scarves, shawls, pillows and accessories all imported from India.
There is a gift for every occasion.
Support the Annandale Fire Department
The Food Sherpa: Would you like to enjoy healthy, delicious dinners in your own home, but have someone else do the cooking? The
Food Sherpa will shop for your groceries, come to your home with all
the necessary cooking equipment, prepare your meals; then package
and store them for you to enjoy at your convenience. The Food Sherpa offers custom menus, vegetarian, low sodium, low-fat and personal
chef services for busy families, couples, and individuals, the healthconscious, the adventurous eater, and the senior citizen. Cooking
classes in you home can also be arranged. Contact: Keith Steury at
703-379-7339 or email at ksteury@thefoodsherpa.com. Details available at www.thefoodsherpa.com
The Pearson Group has listed two commercial condominiums for
sale in Annandale. These units would be ideal for a medical practice
or a hair salon that is looking for space in town. We’re also looking
for someone who wants to sell their barbershop. If you know of anyone interested in either situation, have them call Mike Pearson at
(703)
677-6900
Pearson
Group,
RE/MAX
Allegiance.
info@thepearsongroup.net
Tim Frazier Tree Service: Winter is upon us. How are you set for
firewood? Had storm damage & lost a tree? Do your trees need trimming, topping, cabling, or removing? Do you need landscaping services, edging & mulching, seeding and sodding, top soil, lot cleaning,
or hedge trimming? Do your gutters need cleaning? Please give me a
call. My business is fully insured and satisfaction is guaranteed. 1888-873-8746 toll free. I have worked for many Chamber members.
Contact the Chamber office for references at 703-256-7232 or info@annandalechamber.com
Treasure Trove Thrift Shop: Come see new surprises every week.
Treasure Trove is a thrift and consignment shop filled with thousands
of treasures benefits INOVA Fairfax Hospital. 7010 Columbia Pike,
Annandale 703-256-7715 In the Annandale Shopping Center at Columbia Pike and Gallows Rd. www.treasuretroveannandale.com
TRICO Office Solutions: We specialize in sales and service of all
types of office machines. Whether for a commercial office or home
office we can find you the machines that match your needs and budget. We can also locate those hard to find parts and supplies for older
machines. Need machinery, service or a maintenance plan? Call 703327-6893 or see www.tricoofficesolutions.com
Website Advertising now available on the homepage of the Chamber’s NEW website. View the site for yourself and see why this is the
ENDEAVOR
Bingo on Thursday Nights
Proceeds from Bingo provide for new equipment, repairs and maintenance. Support those who serve our community every day of the year.
Bingo Hotline 703-941-1328
FINANCE
(continued
from
page
10)
Certain industries stand to benefit from a housing recovery. Homebuilders themselves are not the only business actors who stand to gain
from a turnaround. Home furnishing and consumer electronics retailers tend to benefit from increased real estate activity. Further down
the road, so do certain manufacturers.
Footnotes/Disclaimers
1
Source: S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC. The S&P/Case Shiller 10-City Composite Home
Price Index is an unmanaged index that is calculated monthly to reflect the average prices
recorded for single family home sales in 10 major U.S. cities--Boston, Chicago, Denver,
Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Diego, San Francisco and Washington,
D.C. Data are as of January 2013 and reported on March 26, 2013. The S&P/Case
Shiller 10-City Composite Home Price Index has been calculated monthly from thencurrent market reports since May 2006; index values prior to that date were calculated
from historical real estate transaction records using the same methodology. You cannot
invest directly in any index. Past performance does not assure future results.
2
Source: Home Prices Accelerate in January 2013 According to the S&P/Case-Shiller
Home Price Indices, S&P Dow Jones Indices press release, March 26, 2013.
3
Source: Trends & Projections, Standard & Poor’s, March 2013.
4
Source: Consumers’ Positive Housing Attitudes Withstand Fiscal Concerns, Fannie Mae
press release, April 8, 2013.
For More Information: Marilyn Hoosen, Financial Advisor, MSSB
Tel: (703) 556-8113 or www.morganstanleyfa.com/marilyn.s.hoosen
Because of their narrow focus, sector investments tend to be more volatile than investments that diversify across many sectors and companies. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and
objectives. Article by McGraw Hill and provided courtesy of Morgan Stanley Financial
Advisor. The author(s) are not employees of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC ("Morgan
Stanley"). The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and data in the article or publication
has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no
representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data
from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation by Morgan Stanley with respect to the purchase or
sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may be mentioned. Morgan
Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 665737 (05/13)
ENDEAVOR
July 2013
31
Be It Ever So Humble
An Outdoor Room
Pyne Studios, Inc.
seating and storage, lighting, shade features, and creative privacy solutions such as planter boxes, trellises, screens, pergolas or
lattices.
The point is that exterior remodeling with a deck opens so many
possibilities – from a sunny (or shady) spot for relaxing to a
screened-in gazebo for relaxing, candlelit dining. Best of all, the
exterior renovation also makes a great improvement in how light
and spacious your home feels inside.
Pyne Studios, Inc.
6448 Elmdale Road . Alexandria, VA 22312
703-462-3405 . www.pynestudios.com
Adding or remodeling your deck can provide not only a fresh
and updated look to your home, but also one of the most useful
spaces for everyone in the family, even the family pet. Here are
some of the advantages of a new deck.
A more usable yard: If you have an uneven or steep lot, your
yard may not be very usable. With a deck, exterior remodeling
can actually "remodel" that lot. For example, you can do an
exterior renovation that features a multi-level deck for easy access to spacious – and flat – areas for relaxing, entertaining and
letting the children play outside.
Less maintenance, more relaxation: A deck is meant to add to
your enjoyment, not your workload. Decking materials have
come a long way in recent years and there is no reason to build
a deck now that requires lots of maintenance. Composite and
engineered materials such as TREX® Decking and AZEK®
Deck Boards not only eliminate annual maintenance like staining, sealing and checking for rot or loose nails, but also provides long-lasting freedom from warping, rotting, splinters,
stains from spills, and damage from the sun, moisture and insects.
More living space: Today, adding a deck isn't just about your
home's exterior. Remodeling the deck also remodels your interior! Products like "invisible doors" let you open up the entire
wall where the deck connects, extending the size of the rooms
and freeing up the flow between the interior and exterior.
Renovation options – so many creative ideas: By combining
innovative materials and design, you are able to create anything
from a simple deck for a small yard to a large deck that works
with other elements such as a pool, patio, fire pit, spa and outdoor kitchen. Depending on the space and your lifestyle, you
can design and build your exterior renovation to include a customized deck that makes outdoor living a delight with built-in
A Heartfelt Thanks to All Who
Participated in the 9th Annual Bed Race
Kmart
Silverado
TD Bank
Enterprise
Trust Properties
Burke & Herbert Bank
Navy Federal Credit Union
ProMaxx Fitness
Magill’s Pizza & Buffet
Annandale Shopping Center
Burger King
Collector’s World
Hapmudo Martial Arts
Annandale Volunteer Fire Dept.
Mason District Police Station
Arlington County Sheriff’s Dept.
Knights of Columbus
Congressman Gerald Connolly
Fairfax County Chairman Sharon Bulova
Supervisor Penny Gross
Supervisor John Cook
Beanetics Coffee Roasters
Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority Police
July 2013
32
ENDEAVOR
Calendar Of Events
All reservations and entrée selection for luncheons can be made by emailing: info@annandalechamber.com. Luncheons are generally $20.00/members and $25.00/non members.
RESERVATIONS & MENU SELECTIONS ARE APPRECIATED THREE DAYS IN ADVANCE. Afternoon Mixers are free to members but there is a $20 admission charge for
non-members payable at the door. Hearty Hors d’oeuvres are provided at the Mixers. If Fairfax County Schools are closed due to inclement weather, all Chamber activities will be
cancelled. For more details & menu selections see the Chamber’s website calendar at www.annandalechamber.com.
Date
Event
Location
Time
Description
Thurs. September 12
Luncheon
Juke Box Diner
7039 Columbia Pike
NOON-1:30 PM
Speaker TBA
Thurs. Sept 26
Networking
Silverado
7052 Columbia Pike
4:00-5:00 PM
Networking Opportunity:
Bring your marketing materials to exchange
at this quick fire networking session.
Thurs. October 10
Luncheon
Juke Box Diner
7039 Columbia Pike
NOON-1:30 PM
Speaker TBA
Sat. October 26
Fall Festival
Safeway Shopping Center
10:00 AM—5:00 PM
Games, Entertainment, Inflatable Rides,
Community Arts & Craft Market, Sensational Food
Sat. October 26
Parade
Columbia Pike
10:00 AM—Noon
Marching Bands, International Dancers, Costumed
Mascots, Fire Trucks, Floats, & Antique Cars
SAVE THESE DATES:
Saturday, October 26: Fall Festival and Parade
Friday, December 6: Holiday Lighting Ceremony
ADVERTISE
in
ENDEAVOR
and on the
Chamber’s Website
www.annandalechamber.com
Discounted rates for Chamber Members
advertise@annandalechamber.com