endeavor - Annandale Chamber of Commerce
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ENDEAVOR Annandale Chamber of Commerce July 2010 2 Message from the President 3 Our Home Town Summer Activities Building the Annandale Marketplace www.annandalechamber.com The Fairfax County Public Library System The Virginia Room where local history comes alive 5 From Capitol Hill 6 Health Watch 7 Annandale: The Crossroads of NV 8 County Budget 9 Light Rail 10 Finance: Planes, Trains, & Automobiles 12 The American Flag 13 Normandy: The Defining Moment 15 VIEW ON NATURE 16 Retrospective: 2000 19 New Members 24 TAX TALK 27 What’s Cooking: Barbeque 29 Chamber Chat 32 Calendar of Events By: M. Callahan In a short five year period, from 1941 to 1946, over 300,000 individuals came to Washington, DC in support of the war effort. Many remained after their officials duties ended and began life as civilians throughout the area. Fairfax County experienced an exponential growth in numbers, sentiments, values, regional customs, and education because of these new residents along with higher expectations for continued community development. Many to most of the new residents were college educated professionals who contributed greatly to the development of local art, culture, social structures, sports, and educational projects. They also advanced the need for expanded library services, echoing J.A. Langford’s statement, “The only true equalizers in the world are books; the only treasure-house open to all comers is a library; the only wealth which will not decay is knowledge; the only jewel which you can carry beyond the grave is wisdom.” From obscure beginnings to the largest public library system in the Commonwealth, the Fairfax County Libraries have answered the research and reading needs of its citizens. In 1939 the Board of Supervisors established a countywide free library system with an appropriation of just $250.00. The State Library Board and the Federal Works Progress Administration provided matching funds on Bookmobile 1944: Photos courtesy of the Fairfax County Public Library Photographic Archive. First County Library (1940) was a 24 foot square cinderblock building located behind the old Court House and cost $1,090 to construct. The garage was needed to house the bookmobile. a four-to-one basis and within one year a 24 foot square cinderblock structure was built at the cost of $1,090. Located on land behind the historic brick courthouse, it included book shelves, electric wiring and a garage. A bookmobile was purchased and sent to various established deposit stations such as Helen Caperton’s Beauty Shop in Clifton, Stafford’s store on Popes Head Road as well as sites at both Ft. Myer and Ft. Belvoir. Six hundred books could be accessed by side panels in this Chevrolet truck, and later a new and larger bus, cleverly inscribed with slogans such as Check Us Out or We Circulate made the rounds. Although the library budget increased steadily, it was not nearly enough to permit construction of additional sites. Local Friends of the Library demonstrated their determination and community spirit by raising funds for the first year’s rent and utilities. With funding from their Friends, Annandale’s George Mason Library was the third branch to open in February 1955. (Space was leased for five years in the new building owned by David Scull of Turnpike Press. It then moved to slightly larger quarters on Annandale Road where it remained until 1965 when a new structure was built at the present library location.) Finally, in November of 1959 the first Library Bond of $2 million went to the voters. A new headquarters building in Fairfax and six branches were opened as a result. Inside the headquarters building, the Virginia continued on page 18 July 2010 2 ENDEAVOR Message from the President Building Community is Good for Business! By: Gavin Dock Greetings, 안녕하세요, Saludos, Summer is in full swing and it’s hard to concentrate on business when swimming pools beckon, kids are already bored and, I hope for many of you, that much deserved vacation is just round the corner. However, here at the Chamber, business goes on, albeit at a slightly more sedate pace. The Board welcomes new directors Karen Fuentes of Fairfax County OP3 and Todd Reigel of Cox Cable and has shuffled its leadership roles. My name is Gavin Dock and I have the great honor of taking up the President’s gavel, Marilyn Hoosen of BB&T joins Dan McKinnon as Vice President, whilst Vicki Burman continues as Executive Director. I will do my best to fill the huge shoes of Marv Rodney who so ably led the Chamber these past two years. As you know, our Chamber is primarily a volunteer organization. Members of the Board donate many hours of their time to help ensure that the services ANNANDALE the Chamber offers its members Chamber Of Commerce and the events it brings to the Board of Directors Annandale community are relevant and successful. As a memPRESIDENT: ber, you too are part of this enGavin Dock, Clarocode terprise and I encourage you to maximize the benefits your PRESIDENT ELECT: Marilyn Hoosen, BB&T Bank membership will bring by attending events and volunteering VICE PRESIDENT: Carol Zach Reuss Annandale Shopping Center Dan McKinnon, USN retired SECRETARY: Dr. Barbara Saperstone Provost, NVCC TREASURER: George Kresslein, CPA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT: Marv Rodney, American Legion BOARD MEMBERS: Pat Sawhney, Realtor Re/Max 100 Kurt Langenwalter First Command Financial Richard Owen, President, Knights of Columbus Helen Winter, Annandale CBD and Beautification Planning Committee Karen Fuentes, County Office of Public Private Partnerships your time and talents. Not only will you meet a wonderful cross-section of the Annandale business community, but you’ll also have fun! And let’s not forget that through the relationship-networking that is a core part of the Chamber’s driving principles members generate hundreds of thousands of dollars in business each year. On that note, planning for the Fall Parade and Festival on October 23 is in full swing and it’s not too late for you to get involved. Also, please start planning to be part of the parade (a benefit of membership) or to showcase your business at the festival – application forms are on our website. I look forward to working with you over the next year to build our businesses, to strengthening the services our Chamber offers, and to continue to enhance our wonderfully diverse community. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your suggestions and comments, and have a great summer! Gavin Dock THE BEANETICS QUIZ: How well do you know Annandale? 1950 Where in Annandale would this structure have been found? (Hint: It overlooked ecumenical activity.) The first person to email the correct answer to info@annandalechamber.com will receive a prize from Beanetics Coffee Roasters: 7028 Columbia Pike, Annandale (Annandale Shopping Center) Owners, employees, and the families of any business mentioned in the quiz are prohibited from entering the contest. Winners are limited to one prize per year. ENDEAVOR July 2010 3 Our Home Town Great Summer Activities Close to Annandale Fairfax County Park Authority - Trips & Tours Need to get-away for a relaxing day of fun? Join a chartered bus tour on one or more of these exciting day trips. Bring a friend and leave the arrangements and driving to them. TOURS HOTLINE at 703-324-8687 (324-TOUR) for recorded information. Email tours@fairfaxcounty.gov Call 703-222-4664 for tour reservations. Rappahannock River Cruise & Winery Tour: Tappahannock, VA Sunday, August 1 Atlantic City - Showboat Friday, August 6 Rehoboth Beach Saturday, August 7 Mt. Explorer Dinner Train: Durbin & Greenbrier Rail Road, Elkins, WV Saturday, August 7 Whale and Dolphin Watch: Cape May, NJ Sunday, August 8 Dead Man's Cell Phone: Wayside Theater, VA Saturday, August 14 Savor Solomons, Calvert County, MD Saturday, August 14 Tighlman Island Land and Sea Tour Sunday, August 15 Busch Gardens, Williamsburg VA Saturday, August 21 Baltimore Aquarium & the Inner Harbor: Baltimore MD Sunday, August 22 Virginia DARE Cruise: Smith Mountain Lake, Moneta, VA Saturday, August 28 Mid-Life! - The Crisis Musical: Allenberry Theater, Boiling Springs, PA Sunday, August 29 dock Road, bordering Alexandria and Annandale, Pinecrest Golf Course is a par 35, 9-hole executive course, measuring 2,462 yards. The challenging, narrow course is dotted with hills and ponds that create a golfing environment suited for novices and more serious players alike. Pinecrest Golf Club House Facilities include a full service clubhouse, pro shop and snack bar. Golf clubs, riding and pull carts are available for rent. Pinecrest features a practice putting green, 10 driving cages and an indoor practice area. Group or individual golf lessons at Pinecrest Golf Course may be scheduled through the Every Body Golf School. The accessible course is open all year, weather permitting. Hidden Oaks Nature Center 7701 Royce Street, Annandale (one block off Hummer Road) 703-941-1065 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks/public.htm Rappahannock River Cruise followed by a tour and luncheon at Ingleside Plantation Winery Pinecrest Golf Course The Best Kept Secret Inside the Beltway 6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312 703-941-1061 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/pinecrest - corner of Little River Turnpike and Braddock Road Located at the corner of Little River Turnpike (236) and Brad- Set within the 52 acre Annandale Community Park, Hidden Oaks Nature Center is located a few minutes inside the Capital Beltway, just a block off of Hummer Road. The woods surrounding the center feature an easy loop trail 1/3 mile long. Seasonal brochures enable visitors to discover the changing nature of the woodland at points along the trail. For further exploration, additional trails lead through the woods to two streams. Bird watching and photography are special pleasures in these quiet surroundings. The Park is rich in history. While strolling through the woods, visitors can view a railroad embankment built just before the Civil War. This railway, never completed, is part of the Virginia and National Historic Landmark Manassas Gap Railroad. Hidden Oaks Nature Center also serves as an information source for the public on local flora and fauna. Students are welcome to use the resource library for research projects. continued next page July 2010 4 Our Home Town continued... Have your next meeting minutes inside the Beltway in a 52-acre woodland oasis! Hidden Oaks Nature Center offers meeting accommodations for groups up to 100. Available for rent is a multi-purpose auditorium measuring 40 ft. by 35 ft. (at the widest point), approximately 700 square feet, Groups may use our 15 six-foot collapsible tables and 85 folding chairs for classroom or auditorium-style setup. Groups of 8 may opt for plush chairs around a large conference table. The room enjoys a woodland view to a backyard habitat and night time users may spot a flying squirrel visiting the wildlife feeding stations. Birthday Parties at the Nature Center Your little king or queen will be feted in style at their Hidden Oaks birthday party! Choose your party topic -- dinosaurs, insects or reptiles -- and prepare for a memorable experience! Complete a party request form, available at the front desk or call 703-941-1065 to have the form emailed to you. August 1 Sunday—Campfire: Evening Hike and S’mores August 7 Saturday - Otter-ly Wonderful August 14 Saturday - Goodnight Walk: Abounding Bats August 15 Sunday - Water Festival and Science Day August 21 Saturday - Monarch Tagging & Monarch Waystation Butterfly Gardening August 29 Sunday—Monarch Tagging & Monarch Waystation Butterfly Gardening Green Spring Gardens 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA 22312 . 703-642-5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp/ Off Braddock Road across from Pinecrest Golf Course There's something here for everyone: a wooded stream valley with ponds, a naturalistic native plant garden, over 20 the- ENDEAVOR the Garden Gate Plant Shop and our two gift shops, where you'll find gift ideas ranging from books and gardening gloves to china and wind chimes. Green Spring will educate, inspire, and delight you. The gardens are always changing, so come back often for new ideas. And, if you are planning a meeting or a special event, there is a beautiful large room in the Horticulture Center available for rentals. Imagine your event amid this beautiful garden! August 28 Saturday, 9-4:30pm - 28th Annual Begonia Show & Sale August 29 Sunday 12-3:30pm - 28th Annual Begonia Show & Sale August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 - Family Story Time: New Expanded Summer Schedule The Historic House built in 1784 is set amid the gardens at Green Spring. Visitors can enjoy changing art exhibits, enjoy tea with a tour or presentation, and visit our unique Museum Shop. The house is open Wednesday-Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m. For more information, call 703- 941-7987. August 19: 1-3pm Take a relaxing docent-led stroll through the demonstration gardens and enjoy an afternoon tea at the Historic House. This is a delightful introduction to the mission and history of Green Spring Gardens, one of the preeminent places for horticulture in the Washington, D.C. area. Individuals and groups are welcome. $27 August 29 (Sunday) - The Fabulous Flapper 1-3pm. In the 1920s, a new kind Tea at the Manor of woman was born. She voted, drank, smoked and danced the Charleston. She wore short hair and short skirts. How shocking! We'll explore the birth of the Flapper Girl and the decade - the Roaring Twenties - that gave life to her unique image and attitude. A traditional English tea follows each program. $27 August 23 (Sunday) - Silhouette Art: Portraits in Shadow 13pm. Silhouette artist Anne Leslie will trace the history of this early form of portraiture and tell us how she mastered the highly skilled and now rare art form. Ms. Leslie will demonstrate her own freehand cutting, transforming a piece of black paper into an exact likeness of a subject's profile. A traditional English tea follows each program $27 The Historic Manor House at Green Spring Gardens matic demonstration gardens, a greenhouse filled with tropicals, and a well-stocked horticultural reference library. Visit Private Tours of the Gardens and Historic House Large and small groups are invited to reserve private tours. Master Gardener docents guide you through the demonstration gardens and Historic House staff share our fascinating history. The house tour includes the second floor, usually not on public view. Light refreshments are served. Please call 703-941-7987 for more information. Minimum guests: 8 continued page 21 ENDEAVOR July 2010 5 From Capitol Hill Washington: As Economic Picture Brightens, We Must Keep Our Eyes on the Deficit By: Congressman Gerald E. Connolly As economic indicators point to a slow, but steady upswing in the economy, I feel strongly that Congress should not upset this fragile recovery by passing unfunded spending bills that add to the deficit. For that reason, late last month I cast my vote in the U.S. House of Representatives against a $115 billion spending bill because a big chunk of it, $31 billion, was not paid for and would have increased the federal deficit. While there were many worthwhile and important elements in the bill, I didn’t support it because it was not deficit neutral. Early last year, when I took office as your Congressman, our nation was faced with the worst economic meltdown since the Great Depression. On the advice of economists from all sides of the political spectrum, Congress passed legislation to jumpstart the economy and now we are seeing many signs of improvement including an increase in our Gross National Product for the third straight quarter, six straight months of increased consumer spending, a 10-month upswing in manufacturing activity, a 20 percent jump in car sales, and increases in home sales across the nation for the last five months, equating to a 6.8 percent increase in Fairfax County home prices over the last year. But as our economy improves, we also need to get a handle on wasteful spending and rein in the deficit that has been building since 2001. That is why I voted last month against H.R. 4213, despite pressure from the House leadership and the White House to support it. That recent vote is in line with past votes I cast against measures that increased the federal deficit. Last December, I took my lumps for opposing a $154 billion spending bill because it wasn’t paid for, but I believed then, and believe now, that it was the right thing to do. I voted twice to deny automatic pay raises to members of Congress because, as I said at the time, Congress doesn’t deserve a pay raise while so many are still looking for work. I also fought with the leadership to steer unused TARP bank bailout funds to deficit reduction, rather than spend it on new programs. I was a strong supporter of PAYGO legislation, which requires all spending included in bills before the Congress to be offset by comparable cuts to make them revenue neutral – and PAYGO is now the law of the land. The previous PAYGO legislation expired in 2002, and I was among those in the House who pushed to get in reinstituted so we can bring spending under control. During my years in Fairfax County government, I balanced 14 budgets so I know it can be done. Congress needs to get serious about spending and the deficit. I don’t want to suggest that we will turn around the federal deficit overnight, but Congress needs to look closely at every dollar it spends, practice fiscal responsibility, and ensure that our nation remains on the path to economic recovery. I welcome your thoughts and your comments on this and other issues. Please don’t hesitate to call my Annandale District Office at 703-256-3071, my Capitol Hill Office at 202-225-1492, or send me your thoughts through my website at Connolly.house.gov. July 2010 6 ENDEAVOR Health Watch Beware of Copperheads An unusually high number of copperhead snakes have recently been reported in Fairfax County. Copperheads are venomous snakes that are found here and throughout Virginia. Copperhead snake bites have been reported across Fairfax County in the Dranesville (Riverbend Park), Hunter Mill (Reston), and Springfield (Clifton) Districts. Typically, reports of snake bites (and sightings) do not peak until between August and October when baby copperheads are hatching. Virginia is home to three poisonous species of snakes, the Timber Rattlesnake, the Cottonmouth and the Copperhead. It’s important to remember that while death from snake bite is Virginia is extremely rare, they can be painful and cause a number of symptoms such as; swelling and bruising, sweating, weakness, nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching and a metallic taste in the mouth. It is important to seek medical attention if you or your pets are bitten. The Fairfax County Wildlife biologist recommends the following safety tips: • • • • • Keep grass and vegetation mowed short on private property – Snakes like to hunt in tall grass Stay on the sidewalk and park trails Supervise children at all times Do not approach a copperhead - NEVER pick up a snake Keep dogs on leash at all times April Beanetics Quiz Name six of the original stores that operated in the Annandale Shopping Center between 1957 and 1960? Quiz Answer: A&P Grocery, Drug Fair, Suburban Savings & Loan, Bradshaw Shoes, The Annandale Bakery, The Annandale Self Service Laundry & Dry Cleaners, Annandale Sports and Hobby, Annandale Paint Center, B&C Jewelers (later McCormick Jewelers), Villa Maria Restaurant, Galanis (Nick & George) Mobile Station, Tops Restaurant. Deavers Appliance took up residence in the 1960’s. • • Do not overturn rocks or logs Wear appropriate protective clothing when outdoors If you are bitten by a snake: • Stay calm • Do not apply a tourniquet • Keep body part immobilized and area level with heart • Seek immediate medical attention (nearest hospital) For more information on copperheads or other local wildlife, please visit the Fairfax County Government website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/living/animals/wildlife. For more information, or to report a copperhead incident, contact Vicky Monroe the Fairfax County Wildlife Biologist at 703324-0240. July 2010 ENDEAVOR Annandale: 7 The Crossroads of Northern Virginia and a suburb of Tysons By: C. McNeill Until 1968 Tysons Corner was a quaint crossroads surrounded by farms. Then, Tysons Corner Shopping Center, Tysons Galleria, and thousands of businesses joined the landscape. Now it is the 12th largest business district in the United States. Although categorized as an edge city by the Census Bureau, Tysons is only one twelfth the size of DC, but has a daytime population pushing one third the number of DC. Tysons Corner 1956 (Courtesy Library of VA Photographic Archive) On April 8th, the Chamber hosted their monthly luncheon with Dr. Gerald Gordon, president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, as speaker. Gordon remarked that Fairfax County now has more jobs than DC; and, it could be said that DC is now a suburb of the county. Tysons is home to major corporations such as Booz Allen Hamilton, Capital One, Freddie Mac, Gannett, Hilton Worldwide, SAIC, USA Today, Northrop Grumman, Xerox, and Vie de France to name just a few. Although this enormous population generates a great deal of tax revenue it also creates the need for more roads, road repairs and public services. In fact, Fairfax County contributes 25% of all income taxes in Virginia but receives from Richmond only 19 cents on the dollar in return. Consequently, Gordon stressed that continued business growth is essential in order to increase the county’s tax base. Tysons Corner has numerous hotels, fine restaurants, shops, and soon a metro system. It offers all the attractions needed for corporate relocation while Annandale (only 9.2 miles away) stands to inherit some of the smaller fringe companies spun off the corporate platter. The residential real estate market in Annandale and neighboring communities often becomes home to many of Tysons employees helping to stabilize dramatic fluctuations. The county population (projected to be 1,059,468) increased 29.4% in the past ten years and is expected to grow by another 25% in the next twenty years. Presently, Annandale does not have sufficient office space to attract significant commercial development and until the existing county vacancy rate (14%) drops by half, very little development of office buildings will take place outside of Tysons and the Dulles metro corridor. One important marketing con- sideration for any of the often wished for businesses thinking of expanding into Annandale is the total square footage of commercial space available which translates directly into a potential customer base. Annandale currently has a commercial space inventory of 4,287,066 square feet as opposed to Merrifield’s 15,042,933 or Springfield/Franconia’s 22,157,903. However, Annandale does have an ideal central location only minutes from every major highway which has earning her the nickname, “The Crossroads of Northern Virginia.” July 2010 8 ENDEAVOR COUNTY BUDGET—2010 How will it affect your wallet? Real Estate Tax Rate: Increased from $1.04 to $1.09 per $100 assessed value. Personal Property Tax Rate: Remains at $4.57 per $100 assessed value. Refuse Collection Rate: Remains at $345 per household in FY 2011. Refuse Disposal Rate: Remains at $60 per ton in FY 2011. Leaf Collection Rate: Remains at $0.015 per $100 assessed valuation in FY 2011. Sewer Availability Charge: For new single-family homes, this charge increases to $7,750. Sewer Service Rate: Increases to $5.27 per 1,000 gallons of water consumption from $4.50. Countywide Special Tax District for the Control of Pest Infestations: Tax rate remains at $0.0010 per $100 assessed valuation in FY 2011. Stormwater Services District Levy: The FY 2011 tax rate increases from $0.010 per $100 of assessed value to $0.015. Vehicle Registration License Fee: $33.00 for most vehicles The new county budget calls for cutting 176 positions and the Annandale’s New Historic Markers Civil War Skirmishes Remembered Across from the George Mason Library is a heavily treed area known as Poe Terrace Park. Although overgrown and not yet manicured for park use, there are some beautiful culverts and earthen works built by the Manassas Gap Railroad in the 1850’s. Evidence of this building project can also be seen on the south side of Walton Lane and in the Annandale Community Park. The railbed construction was completed but the money ran out before the rails themselves could be laid. (ENDEAVOR, July 2009, page 5) addition of one position for the Office of the Financial and Program Auditor. It will transfer $1.77 billion or 53.5% of total county disbursements to the Fairfax County Public Schools for both Operating and Debt Service. This plus state funding will completely fund the School Board’s operating request of $2.2 billion and will restore programs such as band & music and language immersion. New fees will be charged for Advanced Placement & International Baccalaureate tests and athletic participation. Summer school has been eliminated except for special education students, credit recovery for high school students and self-supporting programs. The extended learning program has been eliminated although funding for a transition period of one year has been requested. Class size ratio is to be maintained as well as a salary freeze for employees. The projected enrollment for FY 2011 is 175,296 or 1,723 additional students. Enrollment has increased steadily over the past three years adding substantive expense to the school budget. Consequently, some support positions in the schools and particularly at central office including clerical staff, custodians, and assistant principals will be eliminated. For complete details on the county and school budgets see: www.fairfaxcounty.gov and www.fcps.edu What remained was a wide navigable foot path often used by both Union and Confederate soldiers when traveling through Annandale. Recently an historic marker was placed in front of the library to commemorate a Civil War skirmish involving Federal troops from Blenker’s Division of the Forty-fifth New York Volunteers and members of a Confederate cavalry unit. The second marker is located on Championship Drive near Frontage Road. It commemorates a skirmish between Mosby and Capt. Joseph Schneider of the 16th New York Cavalry. ENDEAVOR July 2010 9 Annandale’s Future Redevelopment Center Light rail would certainly help Recently, Arlington County approved $3,000,000 for a two year plan and design study of the proposed 4.7 mile streetcar line running from Pentagon City to Skyline (Bailey’s Crossroads). This money will come from a fund created through a commercial real estate tax. On Columbia Pike the electric cars would run along the curb lane allowing passengers to use existing sidewalks as platforms while alleviating some rush hour traffic. This environmentally friendly transportation project will have 15 stops approximately one third of a mile apart with cars running every 6 minutes during rush hour. A constant flow of foot traffic will be created which allows for businesses to prosper and encourages redevelopment of the area translating into the addition of a variety of new retail and business establishments. It had been hoped that Fairfax County would elect to extend the line along the remainder of Columbia Pike into Annandale. For now, this is not to be. In the County Comprehensive Plan the Board of Supervisors recognized that, “One of the primary implications of the trends and forecasts for Fairfax County is that traffic conditions are likely to deteriorate further, even with extraordinary expenditures to improve the transportation infrastructure... A keystone policy for future planning and facilities includes achievement of a multi-modal transportation system to reduce excessive reliance upon the automobile.” Annandale needs redevelopment. Annandale needs to attract a vast variety of new retail & restaurant establishments. Annandale needs immediate relief from rush hour traffic. The streetcar line extending to Annandale held out promise. Hopefully, the issue is not dead, just delayed. Officials in Arlington County promote the benefits of a modern Streetcar Line: Attractive vehicles with large windows are compatible with the urban scale of the area and with the walkable “main street” environment Arlington is developing along Columbia Pike Electric motors and steel tracks provide a quiet, comfortable ride and encourage transit use Streetcars are large enough to handle increased ridership as the corridor redevelops Vehicles are powered from a single overhead wire that would have minimal visual impact The streetcar line would encourage the private sector to invest in the revitalization of the corridor. (Based on the experience of cities such as Portland, Oregon and Tampa, Florida, the streetcar system would promote new development along Columbia Pike.) For more information on the Street Car project or Fairfax County transportation issues: www.arlingtonva.us 10 July 2010 ENDEAVOR Planes, Trains & Automobiles The dash to Destination Quality By: Marilyn Hoosen BERNARDAUD TOWLE PORTMEIRION LENOX WATERFORD ORNAMENTS GORHAM LENOX Celebrating 30 Years in Annandale Save up to 75% on Holiday China Lenox: Holiday & Winter Greetings Spode: Christmas Tree & Woodland Portmeirion: Holly & Ivy Select Holiday Ornaments from Wallace, Towle, Tuttle, Waterford...AND MORE Limited Quantities –Preseason Sale –Prices Subject to Change www.annsandra.com LENOX 703-354-2110 800-357-2110 703-354-2110 4417 JOHN MARR DRIVE,800-357-2110 ANNANDALE, VA 22003 SPODE Sovereign debt accrued by nations had become all the rage in the ‘90s and this millennium. Traders looked to cash in on these spending and savings habits among nations, betting that higher interest rates would have to be paid out through creditdefault swaps. The problem with this approach? Deepening debt as interest is serviced at higher rates, while social safety TOWLE FITZ & FLOYD WALLACE Assessing current conditions is always tricky as these moving parts remain unpredictable, much like the Gulf Oil spill. Once Greece had declared near default, global investors fled the Greek market as quickly as their brokers could place their sell orders. Surrounding nations suffered a similar assault on their debt, as investors exhibited fear that the infection might spread, and spread fast. The acronym PIIGS coined earlier, symbolizing Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece and Spain, identified problem nations in the EU that were a very real threat and could sink the Euro. One thing is clear: our globe is shrinking and becoming more and more interconnected as tragedy in one part of the world affects almost every other part. Hence, the flight to quality, US treasuries, caught the market unaware. Just a few years ago we were warned to take advantage of mortgage purchases and refinances as much as we could. A correction would certainly occur soon and borrowers would see the window of opportunity close quickly. This almost certain predictability proved itself wrong. The only certainty is uncertainty. A wise investor always needs a back-up plan and needs to keep a constant eye on current conditions. PORTMEIRION In the world of financial planning, our goal must be to remain focused on the long-term objective and double-down our commitment to persevere through all perils and pitfalls while on our path to prosperity. The dash to a destination called Quality (the quality of our real and financial assets) is the best sprint we can make to protect our principal holdings. This spans the spectrum of FDIC instruments, Treasury bills, municipals and solid investment grade equities and bonds which ferret out the risks (both systemic and institutionspecific) while conducting due diligent reviews of holdings. As investors’ assets board planes, trains and automobiles in their dash to destination Quality, greater care is now required to ensure that the pursuit indeed leads to happiness. nets eat away at larger chunks of the public purse. When the Greeks introduced their austerity measures, citizens took to the streets and protested in greater numbers, decrying their dependence on public assistance. Yet, the government had no choice but to cut expenses, as tax revenues alone could not close the gap. As investors looked around the world, and despite our own domestic spending woes, they knew that the safest place to park their assets has been the US Treasury. Thus the flight to quality and safety emerged as more and more investors purchased Tbills, ETFs and ETNs that price treasuries, driving down the treasury yield due to high demand and allowing an inadvertent reduction in the trickle down to mortgage rates. GORHAM In the movie, “The Pursuit of Happiness,” Will Smith plays the role of Chris Gardner, a man who went from being penniless to prosperous by overcoming numerous hardships. He knew that the struggle served as preparation for the happiness he would later enjoy. He took his son on this journey, giving him a first-person account of the slog and struggle. As he honed his skills on the investment platform at Morgan Stanley, he outperformed all of his peers, not even drinking a glass of water for that would naturally lead to a bathroom break, thus stealing valuable phone time with a potential investor. One of the many lessons we can draw from Gardner’s pursuit, is that the marathon toward happiness, requires the ability to endure setbacks while never taking your eye off the prize. customerservice@annsandra.com 4417 JOHN MARR DRIVE, ANNANDALE, VA 22003 BERNARDAUD TUTTLE WATERFORD ORNAMENTS TOWLE July 2010 ENDEAVOR Planes, Trains and Automobiles...continued As any statistician would tell you; building good decision trees, preparing for any number of possible outcomes, while weighing each outcome’s probability of occurrence, is the best way to mitigate risk, and plan for the unknown. In speaking with a client, he shared an experience he had in San Francisco. Outside a church he was approached by homeless persons who asked for compassion and mercy, and fiscal relief...they needed money for food. Interestingly, these individuals were not high school drop-outs nor unskilled individuals, but former engineers, IT professionals, middle and upper management workers who had earned six figure incomes. They had fallen on hard times as their firms made decisions to close plants and offices in the state of California due to unfavorable taxation policies. This is food for thought on the question of corporate taxation and how such policies can affect workers at professional and entry levels alike. As such, these now homeless and skilled unemployed individuals had not just lost their homes and jobs, but they lost their will to keep trying after so many subsequent job rejections. The average rate of unemployment is now near 10% nationwide. California is somewhat of an anomaly, with an average of 15%, and in Marin County, it is near 20% - staggering indeed, but even more significant when one sees the names and faces of the people behind these num- The Police Team Places First Annual Bed Race & Carnival The Chamber’s annual Bed Race was held on Saturday, May 15th in front of K-Mart along John Marr Drive. The Bed Race is a fundraiser for Virginia Special Olympics and the Annandale Chamber of Commerce, organized in cooperation with the Fairfax County Police Department. Pediatric hospital beds are provided, and teams of five decorate and race their bed through a course on John Marr Drive in a timed competition. The winning Police Team with Congressman Gerry Connolly The Fairfax County Police Department won the race with Magill’s restaurant taking second, and Silverado’s restaurant third. Hapmudo Martial Arts Studio, in the Annandale Shopping Center, provided an energetic demonstration 11 bers. As the familiar adage reads, “But for the Grace of God, there go us all.” We hear the government speak of retooling skill sets for individuals that will make them more relevant to the marketplace, but those are long-term objectives. Training does not happen in a day and companies that outsource are looking for cheaper payrolls. For those who have lost their jobs, especially the 99ers (unemployed for 99+ weeks), the chances of a firm hiring them become slimmer by the day. The problem deepens as recent college graduates enter the workplace, giving companies the chance to meet lower pay-grades and receive longer productivity cycles. Yes, the gloom and doom is widespread. Economic recovery data is signaling a positive trend while Congress seems less inclined to extend benefits to the long-term unemployed. Take the time, none like the present, to assess your current situation. See where gaps exist and work on closing them now. Chris Gardner realized early that setting a vision would never be enough in his pursuit of happiness. He had to work hard to meet his goal. He achieved it with dignity, humility and sweat equity. We can all learn this lesson and make it part of our pursuit toward quality, sustained and unsullied happiness. Marilyn Hoosen Private Financial Advisor, BB & T Private Financial Services (703) 924-2216 (office) - Email: mhoosen@bbandt.com and Congressman Gerry Connolly, a long standing member of the Annandale Chamber and US representative for the 11 th Congressional District, handed out prizes. In six short years the Bed Race has become one of Annandale’s favorite events. Plans are underway to add a junior competition next year in the form of a wagon race. The Spring Carnival, held in conjunction with the Bed Race in the K-Mart parking lot, ran from May 13-23rd. This is an annual event much anticipated by Annandale families...especially the little ones. A hearty than you goes to Carol Zach Reuss who organizes both events each year. 12 July 2010 ENDEAVOR The American Flag A visible symbol to our Nation and to the world By: Marv Rodney Keeping with the theme of addressing one national holiday each quarter, I am expanding the article this issue to provide some general information about the History of our Flag. This is particularly timely since we recently celebrated Flag Day (June 14th) and Independence Day (July 4th) – two dates in which our Flag figures prominently. Since it was first designed, the American flag has seen and weathered much. It has been a symbol of hope, strength, courage, and faith. When Betsy Ross designed the American flag in 1777, the Revolution was still ongoing, and it was a pure tossup as to whether it would succeed. The American flag, then with its 13 stars (each one representing a colony) and 13 stripes gave the patriots a new confidence, and it rivaled the “Union Jack,” in its beauty. From then on, the American flag would be a staple in each battle. Eventually, victory would be theirs, and the entire world would come to recognize the importance of the stars and stripes. Another milestone for the American flag was in the War of 1812. After seeing the British Royal Navy inflict severe damage on Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor, poet Francis Scott Key was amazed to see that the flag still flew. This inspired him to write the now famous “Star Spangled Banner,” which would be forever connected with the American flag. During the American Civil War, both sides showed a reverence for the American flag. The North, which never considered the South truly gone, still kept 34 states on their flag. The South, which believed that it held to the vision of the Founding Fathers, had a flag that somewhat resembled the American flag. It bore the same colors, 13 stars, (they hoped throughout the War that Missouri and Kentucky would be added to their 11 states) and, especially pronounced in early versions, three stripes. In 1892, another familiar tradition began when Boston Baptist minister, Francis Bellamy, wrote the “Pledge of Allegiance.” From Columbus Day of that year onward, when President Benjamin Harrison recited it for the first time, the pledge has been forever connected with the American flag. Today, every morning, school children around the country recite, “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America…” Like the country it represents, the flag has changed. In fact, it has changed 28 times since 1777 with the last change on July 3, 1960 when Hawaii became a state. The Flag has grown, changed, and developed. Nonetheless, it has continued to be a visible symbol to much of the world representing prosperity, hope, and all that is possible if a dream is given flight. If you have any questions or would like more details on this article, please contact your Post 1976 Service Officer, Marv Rodney at 703-328-3052. Better yet, stop in your Post 1976 home at 4206 Daniels Avenue, Annandale, and meet some of our friendly people. Information contained in the above article was extracted from the web. Memorial Day Ceremonies in Annandale On Memorial Day, May 31, 2010 American Legion Post 1976 honored local veterans by placing flags on each veteran grave at the Annandale United Methodist Church Cemetery. A second ceremony was held at Cannon Park on Columbia Pike where Legionnaires, family and community members assembled to attend the ceremony and hear the keynote address provided by Congressman Gerry Connolly and an eloquent reading of In Flanders Fields by Wilma Ranck. In addition to Congressman Connolly, State Delegate Vivian Watts, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova, Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross, and Braddock District Supervisor John Cook attended the celebration. Our Veterans 358,000 The number who served during both the Vietnam era and in the Gulf War. 315,000 The number who served during both the Korean and Vietnam wars. 69,000 The number who served during three periods: World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War. 263,000 The number who served in World War II and the Korean War. Source: U.S. Census Bureau ENDEAVOR July 2010 13 Normandy The defining moment of the 20th century By: Zachary C. Miller Beside the often overlooked Annandale cannon, which sits on the corner of Columbia Pike and Backlick Road, stands a small stone tablet that reads, “That which we do for ourselves dies with us. That which we do for others remains.” For a community that lies within minutes of Arlington National Cemetery and the WWII Memorial, this is a most fitting inscription. These sentiments strike deeper at the heart when walking amongst the headstones at Arlington, where soldiers from every American war now lay at honorable rest; or, through the WWII Memorial that commemorates those who fought in the defining moment of the 20th century. While on spring break, during a semester abroad, seems an unlikely time to initiate an understanding of the sacrifice made by those buried within minutes of my hometown, Annandale. In fact, take a poll of likely spring break destinations and Normandy probably comes in right above Bosnia. But like the young soldiers who, around the same age, embarked across the English Channel in June of 1944 towards northern France, I and four fellow students headed to the same destination - a place I found German Gun Casemate that I knew little about. Nearly every American history class throughout school started in 1492 with Columbus, but never reached past Pearl Harbor into 1942 or beyond. If mentioned at all, D-Day and the Normandy landings were briefly referenced in the closing remarks of class before final exams. I’ll let the reader determine how much time was left for discussion of the Korean Vietnam German fortification...If you drop a grenade in the War, top ventilation hole it passes through a U –shaped War, or Desert channel and comes out the bottom. D-Day landing at Omaha Beach—June 6, 1944 Storm. If the importance of history lies within our ability to learn from past mistakes, then perhaps this lesson has never been more vital than in the midst of our most current war against terrorism. When on our tour we reached the city of Bayeux outside of Normandy, we met with an enthusiastic young British man who would serve as our tour guide for the next eight hours, the highlights of which included St. Mere Eglise, Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, and a bluff overlooking the two called Pointe Du Hoc. The celebrated amphibious landing of 11,000 Allied ships on these beaches was preceded by the deployment of paratroopers further inland whose mission was to disrupt communication and prevent reinforcement of the coastline. The C-47 pilots carrying these soldiers had little training; were flying at night; and, came under heavy enemy fire, which resulted in severe misplacegun placement overlooking Omaha Beach ment of the troops. German provided some cover during the landings To further compliand subsequent Allied assault. cate the matter, the Nazis flooded the marshes leaving only a few open causeways connecting inner France with the beaches. On top of this, old Viking farms had created hedgerows covered in thick brush nearly impossible to penetrate. All of this combined to form a nightmarish situation for the troopers. The difficulties encountered inland foreshadowed that of those landing on the Normandy coast a few hours later. July 2010 14 Normandy continued ENDEAVOR Looking at the breadth of the beaches from the cliffs, I thought of the average soldier, barely out of high school, and wondered how men so young and innocent to warfare could summon such unimaginable courage. Today, thousands of Americans still remain on this bluff overlooking Omaha Beach at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, including three recipients of the Medal of Honor and Gen. Theodore Roosevelt Jr. Those who died here; the bravery they displayed here are remembered by every visitor. Dominating the cemetery’s landscape stands a twenty-two foot bronze statue above an inscription which reads, “The Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves”. Never have I felt such a sense of loss; never have I felt so proud than standing amongst the graves of boys who, if alive today, would be old enough to be my grandfather. Whether in Annandale or thousands of miles away in a foreign country, I will forever honor the sacrifice and struggle of American servicemen. Crater from the bombings (Photos courtesy of the author) Utah Beach suffered the fewest casualties of any landing, losing only 197 of nearly 23,000 men. Conversely, littered with hidden Nazi bunkers, Omaha Beach was the place you’d least like to land on D-Day. Nearly 2,400 Americans lost their lives there, and by the end of the day the blood stained water was described as having purple waves and pink surf. Still, the highest percentage of casualties occurred at Pointe Du Hoc, a 100 foot high cliff overlooking the sea between Omaha and Utah Beaches. On this cliff German concrete casemates (pillboxes) had been built to house 155mm artillery guns. Taking these guns was a high priority as they would disrupt the landings on both beaches. Fortunately but inexplicably the guns had been moved inland shortly before the landings. Taking and then defending this strategic high ground from numerous German counterattacks; then finding and destroying the guns, resulted in a significant casualty count. Enormous craters are evident all around these casemates from the naval bombardment and aerial bombings laid down immediately before the invasion. Amazingly, the 7ft thick rebar reinforced concrete was left without a crack but the Allied advance was notably delayed by rifle and machine gun fire from these pillboxes. An additional testament to the quality of German engineering was a “U” shaped ventilation duct that allowed for the fresh flow of air while preventing grenades from being thrown into the casemate. In fact, Allied forces were never able to successfully enter the casemates even after the beaches were taken until the soldiers unlocked themselves from within. “The Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves” Normandy American Cemetery is the resting place of 9,387 servicemen. ENDEAVOR July 2010 15 VIEW ON NATURE Commemorate! By: Michael McDonnell, Hidden Oaks Nature Center 7701 Royce Street, Annandale Perhaps you’ve seen the new garden and banner at Hidden Oaks Nature Center? The Fairfax County Park Authority is celebrating its 60th year (December 6th 1950) with events throughout the year. The need to commemorate is instilled in human nature. Most of our religious, secular and seasonal celebrations are cyclical. “Commemoration,” a word with the same roots as “memory,” does not merely mean a celebration, but a “remembrance” of a previous event. Perhaps it’s our internal circadian rhythms that drive our desire to mark seasonal and anniversary celebrations. We are cyclical beings, with internal biological clocks that commemorate the passage of about 24 hours. Although scientists speculate its obvious relation to the Earth’s rotation, they’re still learning about the unknown biological or chemical processes that trigger our cyclical selves. Most other organisms also have biological rhythms. Have you heard the birds celebrating and singing in the morning or heard them announce spring’s return? Well, perhaps too anthropomorphic for some, but it is a natural sign that the cycle is starting again. The Earth’s revolutions around the sun are deemed worthy of celebration by most human cultures, if not other species. Remember the “controversy” of chronology that surrounded the Y2K turnover? Those events were based on an arbitrary distinction in the Julian/Gregorian calendar. Even pedants such as me – who insisted that, under our system, we were still in the old century during 2,000 (since year 1 through 100 was the first century) – had to admit its arbitrary construction. The Egyptians were probably the first Western culture to commemorate cycles using a solar calendar, for they noticed that the floods of the Nile routinely followed the reappearance of Sirius, the Dog Star, annually. The Romans, from whom we get our current calendar names, followed a Greek calendar that started in March, ended in December, and ignored the entire winter, almost 60 days. Not a bad practice in my view! Those 60 winter days had become January and February, so named by Numa Pompilius 800 years BCE to designate two extra tax months. The two-faced Janus was the god of gates and doors. A door could look both ways and so January was the “connection” – either the end of the previous year or the start of the coming year. Februalia was the early Latin designation for a length of time dedicated to sacrifice, to atone for ones sins. That’s why it was good for taxes! In 46 BCE Julius Caesar, on the advice of the astronomer Sosigenes, created the current system with its 12 months comprising 365 and 1/4 days. To catch the calendar up to the solar cycle, the Romans decreed the year 46 BCE to be 445 days long. They commemorated it as the “Year of Confusion,” as good a name as any for many a year I’ve witnessed. Every month had variously 30 or 31 days except February, which contained 29, and every fourth year had 30. Thus leap year was invented. Caesar also took a perfectly good month “Quintilis,” (which referred to the fifth month when March was the first,) and renamed it in honor of himself, naturally. So we have “July.” Caesar Augustus then of course had to have his month, so the former “Sextilis,” for sixth, became August. One can only speculate that Tiberius, Caligula and the rest were uninterested in monthly names. So that is why September (seventh), October (eighth), November (ninth) and December (tenth) are, in fact, not! On the more modern cyclical calendar of commemorations, besides the aforementioned 60th Anniversary for the FCPA, Hidden Oaks Nature Center just celebrated its 40th anniversary with much fanfare. Most of us love birthdays (up to a point!) Regardless of the perhaps bittersweet reminder of our age and the passage of time, a good birthday commemoration tells us we’re among family and friends, a special place to be. So, sit back and commemorate something in your life! Oh, and Caesar’s leap year? Well, by 1582 the system had gotten behind the solar year by three months. Pope Gregory the XIII, in order to catch up, turned October 5th into October 15th. Presto! Ten days gone. However, the calendar would simply fall behind again. So the astronomers were yet again consulted, and the Pope decreed that, in addition to the routine leap year, which is always a year evenly divisible by four, only those century years divisible by 400, instead of four, would be leap years. So the next century leap year after 1600 was 2000! The years 1800 and 1900, although they all qualified as routine leap years, were, arbitrarily, not leap years. So February 29th, 2000 was extremely special. I hope you celebrated. If not, it’s never too late for a party. Because to commemorate that event again, you’ll have to wait until the year 2400! ADVERTISE IN ENDEAVOR Discounted rates for Chamber Members For more information: info@annandalechamber.com 16 July 2010 ENDEAVOR Photo Retrospective: Annandale of Old The Year Was 2000: A joyous welcome to the new millennium GOVERNMENT US President: William Jefferson Clinton (D) Vice President: Albert Gore, Jr. (D) VA Governor: James Gilmore III US Senators from VA: Charles S. Robb (D) & John W. Warner (R) Chief Justice US Supreme Court: William Rehnquist Speaker of the House: Dennis Hastert MAJOR EVENTS: Hopes for peace in Ulster gain support May 6th as the Irish Republican Army offers to open its secret weapons arsenal to international inspection as a means of meeting peace negotiators The U.S. destroyer Cole docks at Aden for refueling October 12 and is heavily damaged by explosives that kill 17 of those aboard and injure 38 others in the first such attack on a U.S. warship. The U.S. presidential election ends in an unprecedented dead heat. Texas Gov. George W. (Walker) Bush (R) is finally declared the victor over Vice President Al Gore (D) in December 2000 because of a legitimate dispute over Florida ballots. The U.S. Treasury issues its first $100 million worth of gold-tinted $1 coins in April, circulating them through Wal-Mart stores and in 5,000 boxes of Cheerios cereal. British authorities accuse former Sotheby's chairman A. Alfred Taubman and former Christie's chairman Sir Anthony Tennant in April of having conspired in the early 1990s to limit competition by fixing commissions charged to buyers and sellers. Taubman pleads guilty in October. Y2K greatest concerns: fears that computers would not shift from 1999 to 2000 correctly. However, by the end of 1999, many companies had already converted to new, or upgraded their existing, software. Some even obtained Y2K certification. In the actual event, relatively few problems occurred. The entire world celebrates the coming of the new millennium with joyous New Year Festivities. The Tate Modern Gallery opens in London. Air France Flight 4590, a Concorde aircraft, crashes into a hotel in Gonesse just after takeoff from Paris, killing all 109 aboard and 4 in the hotel. NASDAQ peaked at 5132.52 before the Dot Com Bubble Bursts and thousands of DotComs go bust. Mad Cow Disease causes alarm in Europe AWARDS & PRIZES Nobel Peace Prize: Kim Dae-jung, South Korea Pulitzer Prize for Fiction: Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri Miss America: Heather French (Miss Kentucky) Best Picture of the Year: Gladiator Best Actor: Russell Crow, Gladiator Best Actress: Julia Roberts, Erin Brockovich SPORTS NCAA Basketball Champion: Michigan State NBA Championship: Los Angeles Lakers over Indiana Pacers 4-2 College Football Champion: Oklahoma Heisman Trophy Winner: Chris Weinke, QB at Florida State US Open Winner: Tiger Woods Super Bowl XXXIV: The St. Louis Rams (formerly the L.A. Rams) defeat the Tennessee Titans (formerly the Houston Oilers) 23 to 16 World Series Champion: NY Yankees over NY Mets 4-1 Heavy Weight Boxing Title: Evander Holyfield Indianapolis 500 Winner: Juan Pablo Montoya President Bill Clinton Wimbledon Singles Champions: Pete Sampras and Venus Williams Loaf of Bread: $1.72 Tour de France: Lance Armstrong Dozen Eggs: 89 cents EVERYDAY LIFE: Montgomery Ward files for bankruptcy December 28, announcing that it is eliminating 450 jobs immediately and will go out of business after 128 years, closing its 250 stores and dismissing the 28,000 associates who operate them. America Online and Time Warner announce January 10 that AOL will acquire Time Warner. The comic strip "Peanuts" makes its final appearance January 3 after nearly 50 years. The U.S. bison (buffalo) population reaches 300,000, up from fewer than 30 in 1900 Half of all US households have personal computers. 1 pound of Bacon: $2.97 Oil Tops $30 per barrel Life Expectancy: 77.5 years Minimum Hourly Wage Rose to $5.15 BIRTHS: Noah Cyrus DEATHS: Admiral Elmo Zumwalt (ret.), Cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, Hedy Lamarr, Tom Landry, Sir John Gielgud MOST POPULAR MOVIES: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Gladiator, Erin Brockovich, Traffic, What Lies Beneath, The Legend of Bagger Vance World Population: 6,070,581,000 US Population: 281,421,906 Average Cost of a new house: $207,000/median cost in US $169,000 Average Income per year: $40,343.00 Average Monthly Rent: $675 Average cost of a new car: $24,750 Cost of a gallon of gas: $1.26 Cost of ground coffee per LB: $3.44 US Postage stamp: 33 cents Average cost of new car: $16,300.00 Average cost of a new house: $134,150.00 Millennium Celebration ENDEAVOR July 2010 17 ANNANDALE in 2000 Fairfax County Population: 933,641 Annandale Population: 54,994 Annandale: latitude 38.830N, longitude -77.196W elevation 361 feet, Eastern Standard Time Zone Median household income: $72,561 Median family income: $80,459 Number of households: 19,927 Real Estate Tax Rate in Fairfax County: $1.23 per $100 assessed value LOCAL NEWS: 2000 The average sales price of a new home in the Annandale area is $213,815 in 2000, rising to $283,489 by 2004. The Fairfax County Park Authority celebrates their 50 th birthday with a celebration at the Ernst Center on the Annandale Campus of the Northern Virginia Community College. The Park Authority began with the donation of multiple acres in Annandale where the first park was established. The average interest rate on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages fell to 7.17 at local banks. The Prime Minister of Japan, Yoshiro Mori, visited Thomas Jefferson HS in 2001. March 24, 2000: Annandale bids farewell to a favorite son and respected leader. John C. Webb, 84, a Northern Virginia lawyer and developer who served from 1952 to 1962 as a Democrat in the Virginia House of Delegates, where he became known for opposing the segregation policies propounded by the majority of his party, died of an aortic aneurysm. During his tenure representing Fairfax County, he frequently clashed with the powerful Democratic Party political organization led by Sen. Harry F. Byrd Sr. (Va.). That organization opposed racial integration measures. In a 1957 editorial, The Washington Post noted that Mr. Webb "stood for moderation and reason and respect for the law in regard to race." Mr. Webb, who sat on the House Appropriations Committee, chose not to run for reelection in 1962. By that time, he had become an established developer in Northern Virginia. His projects included two in Annandale he built in the 1960s: the Americana-Fairfax complex, which includes the Heritage Mall Shopping Center; and a 46-acre tract that contains Parliament Village Apartments, Little River Shopping Center and Markham Street Shopping Center. The Pentagon after Terrorist attack—September 11, 2001 Crime Statistics in Fairfax County 2000: This is a significantly lower crime rate. In fact, it is the lowest seen in Fairfax County between 1980 and 2005. Manslaughter/Murder: 2 Rape: 30 Robbery: 107 Aggravated Assault: 15 Vehicle Theft: 313 Larceny Theft: 8864 Burglary: 1033 Total Crime: 10.355 August 20, 2000: Annandale Terrace Elementary was named one of the nations most improved schools by the Los Angeles Times. November 30, 2000: Annandale resident Mary Otis donated her 25 foot / 19 year old blue spruce tree to the city of Alexandria to be used for the city’s holiday celebrations in front of City Hall. Mrs. Otis reported that the tree had overgrown her yard and would have to be taken down in the near future. When this offer from Alexandria came along she knew it was the right time to cut it down and give it a magnificent send off. September 11, 2001: The west side of the Pentagon is hit by the hijacked American Airlines Flight #77 out of Dulles in a terrorist attack. The Boeing 757 was traveling at 345 mph and carrying 10,000 gallons of fuel while flying very low over Route 50 toward the Pentagon. Vibrations caused pictures to fall off walls in some Annandale homes. 189 people died including all on board the aircraft. The Arlington Co. Fire Dept. led an heroic multi-day effort to distinguish the fire and provide care for the injured. Terrorist attack on Trade Towers in NYC September 11, 2001 18 July 2010 The Fairfax County Library System continued... Room would be housed where thousands upon thousands of old letters, newspapers, photographs, and significant publications that represent the historic heritage of Fairfax County are safeguarded. This is a place where history comes alive. Scholars, genealogists, students, and interested citizens have access to these materials along with the expert guidance and advice of a knowledgeable professional staff. Beginning as a yard wide shelf of books, the historic collection migrated from the basement of one building to the 4,200 square foot top floor of another. The Historical Society of Fairfax County generously purchased furnishings in the 1960’s while the Fairfax Genealogy Society purchased and donated any number of materials for the Virginia Room. Since the library budget was then and still remains quite small, most of the current collection has been gathered by donations, often from local citizens who are downsizing or clearing out their personal collections. The Virginia Room has now stretched to 14,000 square feet and occupies the entire upper floor of the new Fairfax City Regional Library (opened Feb. 2008). Located on the corner of North Street and Chain Bridge Road the Virginia Room is a jewel in the county’s crown of benefits. Climate controlled storage space allows the staff to safely store and catalog the many donations and acquisitions. Housed are original county maps and an extensive photographic archive. For those researching local births, a glance at the 1903-1912 account books of Dr. Jones, MD may be helpful. Since no birth certificates were required at that time, these books may be the only birth record for some. There are oral histories of local seniors which provide fascinating insights into daily life and records from century old stores showing the cost of goods and services. An extensive collection of books and manuscripts on Virginia and Fairfax County history are shelved including many rare and out-of-print volumes. Old newspapers are on microfilm and microfiche, community directories, gov- ENDEAVOR ernment publications, the legislative data base, and even the ENDEAVOR are available for on -site viewing. However, the best resources housed at the Virginia Room are the librarians themselves. They are not only fluent with the collections but they have also established contacts with professionals 1960-1965 on Annandale Road all over the county, the Commonwealth, and even beyond who can provide further avenues for research. Interviewing Suzanne Levy, a Virginia Room Librarian, is a treasured experience. She quotes multiple research avenues to any question posed. She provides names and phone numbers for outside collections. Her fingers fly over the keyboard locating specific information obscurely buried in little known tombs. It is obvious Suzanne and her fellow librarians have mastered their profession through advanced education and experience. It is also obvious that they truly enjoy helping library patrons. These librarians are a group of outstandingly dedicated, highly skilled professionals to whom we owe much gratitude. Take a trip to the Virginia Room and experience the local past and remember Carl Sagan sentiments, “The library connects us with the insight and knowledge, painfully extracted from Nature, of the greatest minds that ever were, with the best teachers, drawn from the entire planet and from all our history, to instruct us without tiring, and to inspire us to make our own contribution to the collective knowledge of the human species. I think the health of our civilization, the depth of our awareness about the underpinnings of our culture and our concern for the future can all be tested by how well we support our libraries.” Because of cuts to the Fairfax County budget, Annandale’s George Mason Library will be forced to reduce their hours as of July 1, 2010 to: Monday and Wednesday - 1 p.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday - 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday and Friday - 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday - 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday - 1 p.m.-5 p.m. The Fairfax Library Foundation cautions that private donations are critically needed since, “Less than one cent of every tax dollar is used for the Fairfax County Public Library.” Donations can be made online at www.fairfaxlibraryfoundation.org George Mason Library at 7001 Little River Turnpike opened January 3, 1965 With grateful acknowledgment to “Books and Beyond: Fairfax County Public Library’s First Fifty Years” by Nan Netherton; Suzanne Levy; and, the Fairfax County Public Library System for providing information & photos for this story. ENDEAVOR July 2010 19 New Member Spotlight Looking for a Summer Day Camp Annandale’s Kenwood School has one of the Best! Kenwood Camp: Kindergarten through 8th grade Summer Day Camp at Kenwood is a wonderful summer experience for all kids! Taking advantage of our location, we go on daily field trips to exciting destinations including water parks, mini golf, roller skating, amusement parks and more. In addition to the field trips; activities, arts & crafts, sports clinics, and camp overnights are also offered while the children are here at our Annandale campus. Every hour of the day is filled with excitement and entertainment. With our week by week signup you can choose which weeks you want to attend; our camp works around your family's schedule. Registration forms are available at www.kenwoodschool.com or camp@kenwoodschool.com Kenwood School Kenwood School is a small yet impressive elementary school conveniently located in Annandale, just off Backlick Road. Since its founding in 1957, Kenwood has provided a top of the line education for many leaders in our community. Our 3-acre campus is located in the heart of Annandale, just inside the Beltway but still maintains a peaceful, secluded feel. The school is a converted farmhouse so the classrooms have a home-like atmosphere. From our spacious playground to the meadow down the hill, the students here never feel crowded. Kenwood is a charming environment to learn in; the classes are small (average of 10, maximum of 15) which offers more oneon-one time with the teacher than your average school. The students receive an individualized experience which helps them grow and learn more than is possible in a large classroom setting. We pride ourselves on our home-like atmosphere and loving faculty. Our curriculum follows and exceeds the Fairfax County and Virginia Standards of Learning. Our teachers are able to expand their lessons past the state standards due to the small classes and the flexibility of the administration. They have freedom to add units which interest the children and keeps them engaged. The product of this great work is consistent, aboveaverage test scores, and students who truly have a love of learning. We do not administer the SOLs; instead, we give an achievement test which is a more accurate measurement of their abilities and achievement over the course of the school year. Contact us today to set up an interview with the Director and reserve your place at this great educational institution. Your children deserve the best education we can offer them. Before and after school care is available for Kenwood students. Kenwood School & Summer Day Camp 4955 Sunset Lane Annandale, VA 22003 703-256-4711 phone www.kenwoodschool.com The Top 10 Boys & Girls Names for 2009 Jacob Isabella Ethan Emma Michael Olivia Alexander William Daniel Jayden Sophia Ava Emily Madison Abigail Noah Chloe Anthony Mia 20 July 2010 ENDEAVOR Aarondale Assisted Living and Retirement Community Long Standing Member Profile Situated near the intersection of Braddock and Backlick Roads, Aarondale Retirement Community occupies an elegant Georgian estate home surrounded by gardens and greenery. It’s what experts have called one of the most progressively designed senior residences in the country. Aarondale brings seniors the finest environment for assisted retirement living. The Knights of Columbus were founded by Father Michael J. McGivney, curate at St. Mary’s parish in New Haven, Conn. Chartered on March 29, 1883 in Connecticut, the Knights have grown to 13,000 councils nationwide. As Father McGivney explained to the small group of men meeting in the church basement, his purpose was to help Catholic men remain steadfast in their faith through mutual encouragement; to promote closer ties of fraternity among them; and, to set up an elementary system of insurance so that the widows and children of members in the group who might die would not find themselves in dire financial straits. We are proud of Aarondale and its state-of-the-art programs and facilities. We offer a full calendar of social and recreational activities to help our residents maintain an active and vibrant lifestyle. Aarondale focuses on independence and resident involvement. All residents, whether they need very little assistance or a special living environment due to memory impairment, are encouraged to take an active part in activities, their daily care, and have the freedom to make daily choices. Our services include Independent Retirement Living, Assisted Living, and Specialty Care for Dementia. Based on an assessment of your needs, we will help you choose a level of care designed just for you. In each level, you can also choose from an extensive list of customized and premium services. We enjoy providing a tour through our home. Please call us for a free, no-obligation tour. Come see why we say, "At Aarondale, life can be simple!" Aarondale Assisted Living & Retirement Community 6929 Matthew Place - Springfield, VA 22151 703-813-1800 - www.rui.net/aarondale The Knights of Columbus Chartered in 1958, the Annandale chapter holds the official title of John Paul II Council and has been continuously active in the Annandale Community. They have contributed much time, labor, talent, and financial assistance to many church and community activities. Every April the Knights participate in the state wide KOVAR tootsie roll drive. During the Holidays they deliver Christmas Baskets for the less fortunate of the community. They sponsor free throw basketball and soccer contests for boys and girls. They generously cook meals for the homeless and team with the Fairfax Elks to run a bingo at the Martinsburg, WV Vets Hospital. They also actively support the Annandale Chamber of Commerce with its membership, Fall Festival, Parade, Holiday Lighting Ceremony, and Awards Ceremony. The Knights also have a beautifully appointed meeting room available for rental. For more information contact Richard Owen at owendiger@aol.com. Knights of Columbus Richard Owen, President 4200 Martin Street Annandale, VA 22003 703-992-0129 owendiger@aol.com www.kc4522.com/Pope-John-Paul-II-Council-4522.htm July 2010 ENDEAVOR Our Home Town continued... Gunston Hall Plantation 10709 Gunston Road, Masons Neck, VA 22079 . 703-550-9220 http://www.gunstonhall.org/grounds/index.html Open 9:30 am – 5pm everyday except Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year’s Gunston Hall was once the center of a 5,500-acre tobacco and corn plantation. Its owner, George Mason IV (17251792), was a fourth generation Virginian who became a senior statesman and one of the era’s most influential figures. As author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, Mason was among the first to call for such fundamental American liberties as religious toleration and freedom of the press. Thomas Jefferson once referred to Mason as “a man of the first order of wisdom.” Mason’s home, constructed between 1755 and 1759, is an outstanding example of Georgian architecture. The elaborate carvings of the interior, designed by indentured servant William Buckland, are among the finest creations of artisans working in Colonial Virginia. Mason’s “regular” garden, south of the mansion, features the original configuration of gravel pathways, a 250 year old boxwood allée, massive earthen terraces, and vistas of the Deer Park leading to the Potomac River and Maryland shore beyond. P l a n t a t i o n Sleuth Family Program: Architecture Antics Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in July and August • 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. Solve an architectural mystery from 1759 when the Mason family moved into Gunston Hall. Young detectives and their adult companions seek vital clues throughout the plantation. The story unfolds during a child-friendly tour of the house. $9/adults; $6/6-12 years; $2/children 2-5 years or $25 Family Admission. Reserve a Sleuth tour for any day of the week for a group of ten or more at the rate of $5/child. Teachers’ Day Out at Gunston Hall - Wednesday, August 4 • 8:30 am - 5:30 pm. Open to elementary, secondary, and home school teachers (8 re-certification hours) Spend an informative and relaxing day at Gunston Hall devoted to the life and ideas of George Mason. Indulge in a specially-designed plantation tour, deepen your knowledge of Mason documents, and learn strategies for making the patriot come alive in your classroom. $20 fee covers the program, related materials, and a continental breakfast. Reservations are necessary. “A few years' experience will convince us that those things which at the time they happened we regarded as our greatest misfortunes have proved our greatest blessings.” George Mason 21 Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy. Charlottesville, VA 22902 . (434) 984-9822 www.monticello.org Monticello was the estate of Thomas Jefferson famous as the principal author of the US Declaration of Independence and third President of the US. His neoclassic home is atop an 850 foot peak near Charlottesville. Begun in 1768 Jefferson built and rebuilt his estate for forty years often adding the ideas he acquired in Europe while serving as US Secretary of State. The Monticello plantation of 5,000 acres was a center of agriculture and industry, and was home not only to the Jefferson family, but to workers, black and white, enslaved and free. The gardens at Monticello were a botanic showpiece, a source of food, and an experimental laboratory of ornamental and useful plants from around the world. Monticello's standard operating hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through November and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. December through February. HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR: Get an intimate look at the extraordinary house Thomas Jefferson built and furnished for himself and his family. See the books, gadgets, art, furnishings, and objects that reveal Jefferson’s unique mind. The guided House Tour covers the rooms on Monticello’s first floor and lasts about 30 minutes. Your admission ticket also includes access to the grounds and two optional outdoor guided tours, of the Plantation Community and of the Gardens and Grounds, which are offered daily April-October. $17/ Adults - Jan & Feb, $22 Adults – March-October, $8/6-11 years year round, free/children under 6 year round. If you would like to schedule your tour for a specific time, you can make reservations online. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. See website for details. Plantation Community Tours (April -October) Monticello Plantation Life interpreters lead visitors down Mulberry Row, the plantation "street" along which slaves lived and labored. These 45-minute walking tours feature a look at how the Monticello plantation operated. Hourly 11 am – 4 pm, April 1- Oct. 31. Reservations no required Gardens and Grounds Tours (April - October) Explore Jefferson's lifelong interest in gardening, botany, and agriculture while enjoying the beauty and variety of Monticello's restored flower and vegetable gardens, grove, and orchards. Monticello interpreters lead these 45-minute walking tours, offering historical background, plant identification, and stories about the gardens. Hourly, April 1-Oct. 31. Reservations not required. Throughout the month of August and September, Monticello hosts programs on Tomato Tasting, Summer Fruit Tasting, Creating an Herbal Potpourri, Tour of the Visitor Center Landscape, Historic Plants Symposium, and their great Heritage Harvest Festival on September 11th. See their website for details. July 2010 22 Our Home Town ENDEAVOR continued... Great Falls Park The Lincoln Cottage Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA . 22066 . (703) 285-2965 http://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm Upshur Street, Washington, DC www.lincolncottage.com From trading to recreation, people have been drawn to Great Falls for thousands of years. At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. Great Falls Park offers Great Falls on the Potomac many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre just 25 minutes from Annandale. Located on a picturesque hilltop in Washington, DC, President Lincoln's Cottage is the most significant historic site directly associated with Lincoln's presidency aside from the White House. During the Civil War, President Lincoln and his family resided here from June to November of 1862, 1863 and 1864. Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnicing and family sports are all enjoyed within view of this awe inspiring natural wonder. The Potomac River moves very, very fast along this stretch. NO swimming is allowed. Sully Plantation 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151 703-437-1794 http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully/ Built in 1799 by Richard Bland Lee, Northern Virginia’s first US Congressman and uncle of General Robert E. Lee, Sully heralds both Georgian and Federal architecture. According to their website, Sully also includes original outbuildings, representative slave quarter and gardens. Guided tours highlight the early 19th century life of the Richard Bland Lee famiSully Historic Site ly, tenant farmers and enslaved African Americans. Programs reflect the history of Fairfax County through the 20th century. Guided tours of the main house are given on the hour. Open daily from 11am-4pm, closed Tuesdays. Last tour at 4pm. January and February, last tour is 3:00pm. Cost: $6/Adult, $5/Student (16+), $4/Senior (age 64 by December 31, 2009), and $4/Child (5-15), per tour. Cost for both tours, approximately two hours in length: $8/Adult, $6/Student, $6/Senior and child. See website for more details and other tour information. 202-829-0436 “South Façade of President Lincoln’s Cottage” Courtesy of President Lincoln’s Cottage (Photo by Carol M. Highsmith) President Lincoln used the Cottage as a quiet setting for important meetings, family relaxation, and solitary reflection as he pondered decisions of profound national importance. All tours of President Lincoln's Cottage are guided and require a ticket $12/Adult, $5/ Children, $10/Military with ID. The Cottage is located on the grounds of the Soldier’s Home, the Armed Forces Retirement Home with 1200 current residents. Consequently you are asked when planning a visit to make reservations online or for directions see www.lincolncottage.org or by phone at 1-800-514-3849. Please bring a photo ID and arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour. Enter by the Eagle Gate at Upshur Street. * Advance ticket purchase is the only way to guarantee your spot on a tour. On-site ticket purchase is subject to availability. * The tour lasts approximately 1 hour. Account for additional time to explore the many other site offerings. * Due to battlefield imagery and tour length (approximately 1 hour), the tour is suitable for children 6 and older, accompanied by an adult. * All visits begin in the Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center. Please check-in 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. * Age appropriate group educational tours for kindergarten through 12th grade are available. Programs meet state and national standards of learning criteria. For more information on education programs call Callie Hawkins at 202-829-0436x31223 or callie.hawkins@nthp.org President Lincoln's Cottage at the Soldiers' Home offers a unique and historic setting for both private and corporate events. The site is comprised of two historical structures, President Lincoln's Cottage, an 1842 Gothic Revival home, and the Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center, a 1905 Beaux Arts Photo courtesy of Pres. Lincoln’s Cottage style building, and the beautiful surrounding landscape. The site offers a wide variety of options for indoor and outdoor entertaining. Ample parking is available on the grounds and both buildings are fully accessible. July 2010 ENDEAVOR 23 Investing For All Your Goals Provided by Kurt Langenwalter, CFP 7236 COLUMBIA PIKE • ANNANDALE, VA 22003 (703) 941-4411 • FAX (703) 941-4412 • E-MAIL:ABGC@ABGC.ORG www.ABGC.ORG ABGC is the oldest youth soccer club in the Washington area. We are 50 Years Young and never deny anyone for lack of funds. TO REGISTER – Call ABGC at 703-941-4411 or go to www.ABGC.ORG Students eligible for Free or Reduced Lunch receive reduced or free registration. WE NEED YOUR HELP! Coaches, Referees, and Commissioners are needed! Basketball and soccer referees especially needed for the 2008/2009 season. No experience necessary, but must have knowledge of basketball or soccer rules. Basketball games are on Saturdays (some Sundays) from January – March. Soccer is played in the Fall and in the Spring. Coaches, Umpires and Commissioners are needed for teeball. Call ABGC at 703-941-4411 for more details or to sign up. CHEERLEADING –Contact Joy Lynch at 703-725-0138 or visit our website for more information. LACROSSE - For boys and girls in grades 3-8. Players may register at www.annandalelacrosse.com BASKETBALL - For grades K-12. Registration begins in October, with practices starting in December. The basketball season runs from January through March. WRESTLING – Registration opens in October for winter wrestling ages 5014 and the program starts in November. INDOOR SOCCER LEAGUES - Indoor soccer leagues for youth start forming in October for the winter sessions. Games are on Saturdays at the Annandale Sports Center in North Springfield for ages 5 – 10 only. REC/TRAVEL SOCCER – Pre-K - 12th Grade. Registration for the Fall rec soccer season usually begins at the end of May. The Spring registration starts in mid-February. Contact Bo Amato at bo.amato@abgc.org for travel soccer information. SPRING BREAK SOCCER CAMP - Held mid to late March. Registration will begin mid-January. BOXING - Boxing lessons are available year-round for ages 7-adult and are held at the Annandale Sports Center. Call Leo at 571-436-5983 for more information. If you had only one financial goal, retirement, for example—investing money to reach it would be simple. But you don’t have only one goal; you have several. You may need money for a down payment on a home, a child’s college education, or retirement. Because all your goals are different, how soon you’ll need the money will help determine the types of investments you make to reach them. In the Near Future You’ll probably want to invest money that you’ll need for shortterm goals, like buying a new home, in income investments that don’t present a lot of risk to our principal. Bonds, Treasure bills, and other fixed-income investments pay interest, usually at a fixed rate, over the term of the investment, which may be a few days to several years. Going the Distance Your retirement money and other funds that you won’t need for several years generally should be invested mainly in growth investments with the potential to increase significantly in value over time. Certain stocks and mutual funds are examples of growth investments. Because they are typically more volatile, growth investments are considered riskier than income investments. Some dividend–paying stocks of well established companies provide both growth and income opportunities. Your financial professional can help you choose investments that are right for your goals, time frame, and risk tolerance. TEEBALL - Registration for youth teeball will begin mid-February. Teeball is available for Kindergarten – 2nd graders. FOOTBALL – Contact lm1955man@yahoo.com. Robert Meadows for information at FIELD HOCKEY—New & experienced players grades 3-8. Email Katie Stribling at annandalefieldhockey@gmail.com COACH PITCH BASEBALL— Spring sport for grades 3-6. Email Todd Harford at tandjharford@yahoo.com for more information. KUNG FU/TAI CHI - Kung Fu and Tai Chi lessons are available yearround at the ABGC Auditorium for youth and/or adults. Call Binh Dang at 703-914-1584 for more details. JAZZERCISE - Contact Melany at 540-846-2592 or send email to: melanypollock1@hotmail.com ZUMBA - Contact Asuka at 703-300-7448 or send email to: AzukaBom@comcast.net Kurt Langenwalter, CFP, MBA, Financial Advisor 5285 Shawnee Road, Suite 305 Alexandria, VA 22312 703-658-2943 office, 703-864-6343 mobile kllangenw1@firstcommand.com Past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Mutual funds are sold by prospectus, which includes information on charges, expenses, and risks. To obtain a current prospectus, please contact your registered representative. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money. Kurt Langenwalter, CFP is a Financial Advisor at First Command Financial Services in Alexandria, VA. This article was written by Newkirk, and it is intended to promote the professional services of First Command. 24 July 2010 ENDEAVOR TAX TALK OPPORTUNITY FOR 2010 TAX PLANNING WITH ROTH IRA By: George Kresslein, CPA You as a taxpayer have a unique opportunity this year to do long-term retirement planning under very favorable conditions. For 2010 only, it is possible to roll over funds from a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA without penalty and to postpone taxation of the rollover until 2011 and 2012. Also, for the first time, there is no income limitation for IRA to Roth rollovers. Prior to 2010, only those persons with adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less could convert to a Roth. Roth IRAs are different from traditional IRAs because they are more liquid—you can pull money more easily out of a Roth before retirement age without penalty, after you have had the Roth for more than 5 years. Also, earnings on a Roth may never be taxed at all if you do not withdraw the earnings portion until after age 59 ½. With Roths, you have no minimum distribution rules, so you do not have to withdraw funds at age 70 ½ if you do not want to. Another major difference is that Roth IRAs are funded with after-tax money. You get no deduction for contributions to a Roth. So when you convert a traditional IRA, which has never been taxed, into a Roth IRA, you must pay the income tax on the portion of the account that was funded with pre-tax dollars. Extension of Popular Tax Breaks Close to Passage The House and Senate are close to resolving their differences on the so -called “Extenders” bills passed by each side over the last few months. The extenders bill contains a one-year extension of popular tax breaks such as the tuition deduction, the research credit, and the new markets credit. Reacting to the Gulf oil leak, Congress has just added to the bill an increase in the excise tax on oil to fund clean-up efforts. The House passed H.R. 4213 in December 2009, while the Senate passed its amended version of the measure in March 2010. Both Houses are working on a combined version, trying to resolve the conflicts in how to pay for the tax breaks contained in the bills. The new bill with the same number, H.R. 4213, has now taken on the title of the “American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010.” Under Congressional rules, the tax breaks in the bill have to be paid for with revenue increases (the “pay-go” rule.) The House wants to raise tax revenues by targeting the foreign operations of U.S. corporations. The House bill also contains a provision to increase taxes on hedge fund and other investment fund managers on appreciation of investments (so-called “carried interests”). Under the bill, these interests would be taxed at higher ordinary income rates rather than the lower capital gains rate of 15%. The Senate previously opposed this provision but negotiations are headed toward a compromise. A group of Senators wants to exempt venture capitalists from the carried interest provision. S Corporation Shareholders Payroll Tax Increase Senate negotiators added a provision imposing additional payroll taxes on S Corporation income. The provision would apply payroll taxes to all the service-related income of shareholders of S corporations primarily engaged in service businesses. The provision is targeted at service professionals, such as lawyers and doctors, who route their self -employment income through S Corporations. It would apply to S Corporations whose service business is based on the reputation and skill of 3 or fewer individuals or an S Corporation that is a partner in a professional business. the S Corporation Association of America has opposed the idea as harmful to small businesses, the backbone of the U.S. economy. In fact, the S Corporation is the most common business form for small businesses. If the bill passes, it will take away what is known as the S Corporation payroll advantage, which allows S Corporation owneremployees to draw a set salary subject to social security and Medicare tax, while taking the remaining profits out of the business subject only to income taxes. The bill also states that service professionals cannot use an LLC or LLP to avoid payroll taxes. Employers Get 2010 Payroll Tax Holiday for New Employees Despite Congress’s stalemate on many legislative agenda items, both sides of the aisle put aside their differences and quickly passed a jobs bill in mid-March. H.R. 2847, the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (the “HIRE Act”) was signed into law by the President on March 18, 2010. The bill gives employers a payroll tax holiday during 2010 for hiring unemployed workers. Specifically, the HIRE Act relieves employers from having to pay the employer’s share of social security taxes on wages paid to new employees between March 19, 2010 and December 31, 2010. The social security tax rate for employers is 6.2% on wages up to $106,800 for 2010. (The new law does not cover the 1.45% Medicare tax.) A special rule allows a portion of payroll taxes already paid by employers in the first quarter of 2010 to be applied as a credit against the employers’ second quarter tax. Health Care Tax Provisions The 2010 Health Care Act passed by Congress in March is an amazingly complicated piece of legislation. It contains many tax provisions, both in the form of incentives and disincentives for individuals, businesses and insurance companies designed to increase health insurance coverage for U.S. workers. Most parts of the bill are phased in over time or do not take effect at all for several years. Health Coverage Mandate It is important to understand the overreaching feature of the law: individuals are required to obtain health insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents after 2013. The law exempts the following persons from this requirement: ● individuals who cannot afford coverage (according to a poverty calculation), ● taxpayers with income below the income tax return filing threshold, ● members of Indian tribes, ● individuals who have short coverage gaps, and ● hardship cases. It also mandates that businesses with more than 50 workers will have to offer health coverage or pay a $2,000-per-worker penalty if any of their employees have to seek government-subsidized coverage on their own. To offset the effects of these requirements, the bill offers tax credits for individuals and for businesses to acquire private health insurance. As your tax professional, I have been studying the legislation to determine which provisions will have the most immediate and far-reaching effect on you and my other clients. As part of my initial assessment, here is a description of some of the key elements of the new Act and how such elements may affect you or your business. ENDEAVOR July 2010 25 The Police Beat Don’t wait in the tall grass, call for assistance. Here are some guidelines from Fairfax County that may solve a problem you are having. “It is unlawful for any owner of any occupied residential lot or parcel which is less than one-half acre (21,780 square feet) to permit the growth of any grass or lawn area to reach more than twelve inches in height/length.” First try to speak to your neighbor. Possibly they need some assistance. If the property is vacant or you receive a blank stare from the property owner, report the property to the county at http:// www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/environmental/ grass_height.htm or call 703-425-9300. Because property owners must be given legal notice before the county sends in the lawnmowers, be patient. It can take 30 days to slightly more. Fairfax County Police Dept. Emergency 911 NON Emergency calls: 703-691-2131 Two Arrested in Khat Bust On Saturday, May 15th Mason District Police Officers made an arrest in Falls Church for possession and distribution of Khat, a Schedule 1 amphetamine. It is smoked, chewed or sprinkled on food and comes from a flowering evergreen shrub native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. About twenty-one pounds were seized during the arrest and another one hundred eleven pounds were subsequently discovered and seized from one of the suspect’s home. This is the largest seizure of Khat in the county’s history. Mason District Station 6507 Columbia Pike Annandale, VA 22003 Phone number: 703-256-8035 Celebrate the Trees of Fairfax County son, landmark or institution. Commemorative Tree: Tree or group of trees planted as a memorial of an event or person. Favorite Tree: Any favorite tree (only one nomination per person accepted). According to the rules: “Eligible trees will receive an honorary designation as a Celebrated Tree of Fairfax County.” Big trees will go into the county’s Big Tree Database, as well as be submitted for consideration in the Virginia Big Tree Program.” The Fairfax County Tree Commission is asking all residents to celebrate with them by nominating trees that mean the most to you. Is there a special tree you climbed as a child? Is there a tree more magnificent than any other? Is there a tree planted in memory of a loved one? Whatever your attachment, submit a nomination in one or all of the following categories. Big Tree: Tree that’s one of the largest of its species Historic Tree: Tree associated with a significant event, per- NOMINATION CRITERIA Only native or naturalized trees in Fairfax County may be nominated. Nominators do not need to identify a tree species in order to submit a nomination and may be submitted anytime of the year. Contact the Fairfax County Tree Commission with any questions. Nomination forms can be filled out and submitted electronically (with attachments) to treemail@fairfaxcounty.gov, or printed and mailed with additional documents to: Fairfax County Tree Commission c/o Urban Forest Management Division 12055 Government Center Pkwy, Suite 518 26 July 2010 ENDEAVOR Roads and Rage NOISE WALLS and the HOT Lanes Much discord has arisen with the mass deforestation of the Beltway to make way for HOT Lanes. No amount of discussion could possibly have prepared the population to the sight of this total annihilation. Green space has always been a prized hallmark of the Washington Beltway and the three Annandale exits. Some areas of the HOT Lanes had noise walls prior to project start and they are to be reconstructed at project end. However, many areas depended on deep and attractive natural noise barriers –forests. Although a promise has been made to reforest, no guarantee of the size or quantity of trees has been made. In fact, the caveat quietly whispered is, “If funds allow.” In 1989, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) formally established a policy to lessen the impact of highway traffic noise on people in neighborhoods and in other noise-sensitive areas, such as churches, schools, hospitals and certain public recreational areas. Engineers use computer models to analyze and predict noise levels for future conditions based on the loudest hour of the day. They also measure existing noise levels in various locations along the proposed highway project when there is no existing roadway to use for the computer models. Along with the road's design, they consider the area’s topography, the distance between the road and nearby properties, traffic speeds, and sounds created by different types of vehicles. Using that data, the computer model predicts the future noise level, which is then compared with Federal Highway Administration and VDOT noise criteria. If this comparison identifies an impact, VDOT engineers must investigate noise reduction options. Noise walls are specially designed structures built to reduce noise levels created by nearby highway traffic. They are built only after noise impact studies are conducted for federally funded highway improvement projects. These projects must meet one of the following conditions. A highway is being built on a new location, an existing highway is being redesigned with a significant change in its alignment, or the number of through traffic lanes on an existing highway is being increased. The Washington Beltway HOT lanes project meets the last two criteria. On non-federally funded highway improvement projects, the locality can obtain partial funding from VDOT to build noise walls if the locality meets eligibility requirements outlined in the state noise policy. When considering how to reduce noise levels, VDOT engineers can design the road by shifting it away from the populated properties. They can also consider reducing the speed limit, restricting heavy truck traffic, or designing the road so its surface is lower through the affected area, creating a natural sound barrier. Another option is the use of earthen berms to block noise. If designing the road differently will not reduce noise, VDOT engineers then consider noise walls. The walls can reduce traffic noise significantly and improve quality of life for people living behind them. If you or your homeowner association are alarmed by the increased noise caused by the HOT Lanes, contact your elected officials. Let them know what you think and ask for their support. Those mentioned below have championed efforts to safeguard Annandale’s green space and noise abatement. US Congressman Gerry Connolly connolly@mail.house.gov VA Delegate Vivian Watts delvwatts@house.state.va.us Sharon Bulova, Chairman Fairfax County Board of Supervisors chairman@fairfaxcounty.gov Penny Gross, Mason District Supervisor penny.gross @fairfaxcounty.gov Potholes and Long Grass Up until two years ago, Fairfax County received $20 to $25 million a year from the state for secondary road construction. Then the budget was slashed. (The Secondary Road Construction budget includes construction of additional traffic lanes or turn lanes, maintenance of the roads, new traffic signals & neighborhood road calming measures.) This year there will be a further ninety-nine (99%) decrease! In Virginia, the state and not the county owns and maintains all secondary roads. Some, but not all, potholes created during the February blizzard have received a cold patch but that will just hold for a short period of time. Repaving is the only valid solution. VDOT has announced through this lack of funding that there will be NO repaving of secondary roads this year. Fairfax County contributes 25% of all income taxes in Virginia but receives from Richmond only 19 cents on the dollar in return. Clearly, Fairfax County is being short sheeted once again. At a bare minimum, report all potholes using the form on VDOT’s Web site at http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/citizen.asp or by calling 800-367-ROAD. Make certain that VDOT knows that the residents of Northern Virginia are not satisfied with their lack of road care. VDOT has abdicated almost all responsibility for mowing along the secondary roads. Due to budget reductions, nearly half of VDOT’s annual mowing budget was eliminated. Consequently, the commonwealth’s transportation department will cut grass along most secondary roads no more than twice. To supplement the reduced state service, VDOT is looking for volunteers by expanding its Adopt-A-Highway effort to include a grass-cutting program. Those looking to get involved must first obtain a permit through VDOT, at: http:// www.virginiadot.org/programs/volunteer_mowing.asp. July 2010 ENDEAVOR 27 What’s Cooking? Barbeque Sauces: Vinegar, tomato, and mustard based Tomato Base Barbeque Sauce Original recipe created by J. Leonard Ribs in a vinegar based sauce 1 cup light oil (safflower) ½ cup ketchup ¼ cup white or cider vinegar ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 2 tsp. paprika 3 springs of fresh Thyme or ¼ tsp. dried leaves. 3 springs of fresh Oregano leaves or 1 tsp. of dried leaves (do not use ground oregano) 2 TB Stone ground mustard (do not use yellow mustard) ½ tsp. ground cloves ¼ tsp. ground black pepper 2-3 TB sugar 4 cloves of garlic ½ white onion BARBEQUE SAUCE Barbeque sauces are divided into three categories: vinegar, tomato, and mustard based. Vinegar is the secret ingredient of North Carolina Barbecue, particularly apple cider vinegar. To avoid a strong bitter flavor, give the vinegar time to work its way into the meat. The vinegar will balance the sweetness of slow cooked meat. Vinegar Base Barbeque Sauce 1 ½ cups cider vinegar ½ cup of ketchup 2 TB sugar 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. of hot red pepper flakes Stir all ingredients in a bowl to dissolve sugar. The sauce keeps indefinitely. This is a particularly good recipe for pulled pork. Mustard based sauce In blender add all ingredients and blend thoroughly until creamy in texture. Baste on chicken or beef reserving some to be served directly on top of grilled meat at the table. Mustard Base Barbeque Sauce Often found in South Carolina Barbeque 1 cup prepared mustard 1 cup of honey total ¼ cup cider vinegar 1 TB cup light oil (safflower) 3 springs of fresh Thyme minced or ½ tsp. dried leaves 3 springs of fresh Oregano leaves minced or 1 tsp. of dried leaves (do not use ground oregano) ¼ tsp. ground black pepper ¼ tsp. cayenne or ½ tsp. of hot red pepper flakes Kabobs with tomato based sauce In a saucepan combine all the dry ingredients and add enough vinegar to make a 28 July 2010 ENDEAVOR What’s Cooking Barbeque Grilling Safety: Prepare properly for cookouts and avoid tragedy paste. Mix well and place over medium heat adding the remaining ingredients. Turn up heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Simmer for 10 minutes turning heat to low. Grilling is a year round occurrence for many. Prepare properly and avoid tragedy and never use gasoline to start a charcoal fire. Instead use charcoal lighter fluid safely and prudently. Adding more fluid on hot coals may ignite the stream of fuel and burn back into the can, causing it to explode. Try using a UL electrical starter and avoid the lighter fluid altogether. Plan an English Tea at Green Spring Gardens Historic Manor House (Entrance on Braddock Road across from Pinecrest Golf Course) If using lighter fluid, let it soak in for two to three minutes. Instead of a loud roar when lighting, the fire will gently roar over the coals. Charcoals are ready for use when the coals are white and hot. Look for the smoke coming off the coals to also be white. Move grills away from structures and combustibles (minimum 15 feet) so they will not tip over or ignite objects above them. One of the biggest dangers with grills is trying to use them on Traditional English Tea Programs are by reservation only and require a non-refundable prepayment. A traditional English tea is included in each tea program. Groups may call to reserve a private tour and tea, or if you have any questions at 703-941-7987. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ gsgp/ Private Teas for Bridal or Baby Showers Experience a special shower at Historic Green Spring. We’ll present a lighthearted history of bridal traditions or motherhood before we serve a traditional English tea. (16-36 guests) Favors available upon request. apartment or condominium balconies. This practice is unsafe and against the law. Never bring a grill into the home. The carbon monoxide produced by burning charcoal is dangerous, and deadly. Keep a garden hose or a portable fire extinguisher handy in case fire. If the grill gets out of control, call 9-1-1 immediately. Keep children and pets away from fires and grills. Curiosity can cause unintentional burns. Though coals may appear to be cool, always soak them with water. Coals retain enough heat to reignite for days after a fire. If your bag of charcoal gets wet, leave it in a well ventilated area away from the house. During the drying process spontaneous ignition can occur in confined areas. For more information about proper use, storing, and disposing of other flammable materials and other safety information, contact the National Fire Protection Association at http://www.nfpa.org, the National Safety Council at http://www.nsc.org, or Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire. ENDEAVOR Chamber Chat: July 2010 29 News, notices & bulletins posted by Annandale Chamber Members Xoçai™ Healthy Chocolate: 2010-2011 Chamber Partner Delicious, dark, decadent, mouth-watering Belgian chocolate! This chocolate contains twice the antioxidants of red wine and three times that of green tea. It contains no refined sugars, no bad fats, no waxes, no fillers, no preservatives, and no caffeine. It's diabetic and vegan-friendly as well as Kosher-certified. Xoçai™ is delicious, dark and decadent, yet it's healthy for your body. Contact: George Kresslein, Independent Distributor @ 703-354-1750 phone http://mxi.myvoffice.com/georgekresslein/ Annandale Fall Festival: SAVE THE DATE: Annandale Fall Festival and Parade: On Saturday, October 23, 2010, 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. From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM scores of merchants with hand made and fashion jewelry, art work, quality giftware from major manufacturers, exquisite crafts and so much more will unveil their treasures. Costumed international dancers, local bands, a D.J. and “The Taste of Annandale” with food from many culinary cuisines will be featured at this festival. The Kid’s Zone will delight and challenge with a Climbing Wall, 24’ Dual Slides, Bungee Basketball, Bungee Run, a Sticky Wall, an Obstacle Course, Moon Bounce, Face Painters, a Reading Tent with costumed characters, a Musical Petting Zoo, a Treasure Hunt, and interactive games for toddlers to teens. The Annual Parade, held since 1950, will finish at the Festival Grounds bringing thousands more with it. For further information or Vendor, Volunteer, Entertainment, or Sponsorship forms go to www.annandalechamber.com or write festival@annandalechamber.com. Plan to participate, volunteer, and have fun! Annandale Volunteer Fire Department: Starting in 2009 Annandale Volunteer Fire Department provides an exciting bingo game and lots of opportunities to win every Thursday and special times throughout the 2009 year. Average Payouts of over $14,136 per night. Doors open 4:30pm – Early Birds start at 6:45pm – Regular Session starts at 8:00pm. Starting 1 January 2009, AVFD BINGO goes to a nonsmoking inside format. We also start Thursday night only BINGO along with several special events throughout the year. See AVFD BINGO special events 42” LCD TV monitors display next ball to be called. Must be 14 yrs of age to play, ATM machine available. Bingo Hotline is 703-941-1328. AnnSandra: Join us throughout July for our preseason Christmas Sale. Holiday China and ornaments up to 75% off. We have Lenox Holiday and Winter Greetings, Portmeirion Holly and Ivy, Spode Christmas Tree and Woodland, and Bernardaud Grenadiers as well as ornaments by Towle, Wallace, Waterford, Tuttle and Spode all significantly discounted for the sale. For more information: www.annsandra.com or 703-354-2110. Buyer's Guide Newspaper: Need more customers? Hello, my name is Jane Boire. For nearly 30 years, I have been helping businesses just like yours get new customers. Let us spread the word about your company. Ask about our $1, Double-Your-Ad-Size special for Annandale Chamber Members. Call me today at 703-866-5159. For more information about our direct mailed newspaper, visit www.bguide.net. Billimoria (WORLDIMART): Part-time opportunity - Online Retail distribution for our exclusive brand of ENERGY DRINKS throughout the USA. Looking for ambitious people willing to work hard and possess the proper focus & discipline to work from home. If interested APPLY HERE to Pre-Register: http://FarhadBillimoria.com/gogreen/nutrilite/performanceliquids/xs/xs-affiliate-partner-program/ Burke & Herbert Bank: A top-rated bank with over 20 convenient offices in Northern Virginia, has provided banking excellence since 1852 for individuals, families and businesses. Annandale Manager Pat Leugers, 4235 Annandale Road, can assist you with your banking, borrowing and investment needs. Visit us today! Phone: 703-5191627. Member FDIC. ENDEAVOR The Most Effective Advertising Vehicle in the Greater Annandale Area. E a c h e d it ion i s p ub li s h ed o nl in e a t www.annandalechamber.com and archived for two years, so your advertising is exponentially viewed. Read about issues that concern Annandale. Get to know Chamber members and their businesses. Read interesting columns such as The Police Beat, Roads & Rage, View on Nature, and The Beanetics Coffee Quiz: How well do you know Annandale? Stay informed with the Finance Column, Tax Talk, and Our Home Town. Hear views from our elected officials and see concert and local social schedules. Support fellow advertisers by shopping in Annandale. Contact: info@annandalechamber.com for rates. Chamber members receive discounted rates. First Command Financial Planning: Is conducting free evening educational seminars on "Planning Confidently for Your Financial Future" in July and August, and "Savvy Social Security Planning" in August and September. Call Kurt Langenwalter, CFP (R) 703-658-2943 to reserve a spot or email kllangenw1@firstcommand.com. A Registered Investment Adviser firm, First Command develops and delivers comprehensive financial plans to assist American families in their efforts to reduce debt, build wealth and pursue their financial goals and dreams. Through a values-centered approach to financial planning and a clientfirst philosophy, First Command has for 50 years established lasting relationships with hundreds of thousands of client families. We’re committed to helping you plan confidently for the future and to accompanying you on your financial journey. www.firstcommand.com -- 5285 Shawnee RD, Suite 305, Alexandria VA 22312. Annandale Boys and Girls Club: View our ad in this edition to see everything the Annandale Boys' and Girls' Club has to offer. This year we are celebrating our 51st Anniversary! Green Spring Gardens: See our Summer Program Schedule in this issue or on our website at www.greenspring.org. Need a meeting room? Perfectly appointed for meetings or seated meals of up to 70. 30 July 2010 Located in our Horticulture Center, there are garden views from every window. 703-256-7717 Hidden Oak Nature Center: Located at 7701 Royce Street, Annandale (one block off Hummer Road) For more information see www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks/ or call 703-941-1065. Kenwood School Day Camp: Kindergarten through 8th grade Summer Day Camp at Kenwood is a wonderful summer experience for all kids! Taking advantage of our location, we go on daily field trips to exciting destinations including water parks, mini golf, roller skating, amusement parks and more. In addition to the field trips; activities, arts & crafts, sports clinics, and camp overnights are also offered while the children are here at our Annandale campus. Every hour of the day is filled with excitement and entertainment. With our week by week signup you can choose which weeks you want to attend; our camp works around your family's schedule. Registration forms are available at www.kenwoodschool.com or camp@kenwoodschool.com Levine Design Studio: Providing architectural and planning services to local businesses and residences. Current projects in the Annandale area include the remodeling of the Sunset Grille restaurant and bar, and feasibility studies for Independent Living Facilities for senior citizens. Please contact us for a free initial design consultation. Jeffrey Levine: 202-628-0729 or jlevine@levinedesignstudio.com. See our website at www.levinedesignstudio.com Little River Yoga: Little River Yoga (www.LittleRiverYoga.com), a small yoga studio, specializing in the individual student, will have a Yoga Camp for Kids August 16-20. Contact Stair Calhoun, 6399 Little River Tpk., Annandale. 703-203-8510 M&T Bank: Visa Credit Cards are designed just for M&T customers. Get our lowest rate. Reward yourself every day while enjoying exclusive benefits. Overdraft protection when linked to checking, no annual fee, 0% intro APR on balance transfers. One reward point for every dollar spent on qualifying purchases. Rewards including cash, gift cards, travel and merchandise. Combine rewards with your enrolled M&T Check Card. Double rewards points for the first six months. No pre-set spending limit. After six billing cycles, your rate for balance transfers will be the same as the purchase rate, and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. See our website for more details at www.mtb.com or come by the branch located at the Heritage Shopping Center, Annandale. Office of Public Private Partnerships identifies opportunities for businesses, public agencies and community organizations to work together and ways to engage with Fairfax County that benefit your company and your community. Interested in increasing your business’s visibility with the public and increasing the perception of your organization as a community leader? Here is a link to a short list of opportunities immediately available: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ partnerships/csr_brochure.pdf To see what others in the community are involved in, please read our Spring 2010 newsletter: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/partnerships/op3_newsletter spring_2010.pdf Pinecrest Golf Course: Pinecrest offers group packages for up to 36 persons. To schedule your next group/company outing, please call 703-941-1061. Located at the corner of Little River Turnpike (236) and Braddock Road, bordering Alexandria and Annandale, Pinecrest Golf Course is a par 35, 9-hole executive course, measuring 2,462 yards. The challenging, narrow course is dotted with hills and ponds that create a golfing environment suited for novices and more serious ENDEAVOR players alike. Facilities include a full service clubhouse, pro shop and snack bar. Golf clubs, riding and pull carts are available for rent. Pinecrest features a practice putting green, 10 driving cages and an indoor practice area. Group or individual golf lessons at Pinecrest Golf Course may be scheduled through the Every Body Golf School. The accessible course is open all year, weather permitting. Pinecrest School: Pinecrest School, a preschool-grade 6 private school in Annandale, will begin offering preschool after-care for 2010 -11. Pinecrest currently has after-care for K-6 students until 6 p.m. and will now be able to offer preschool families the same option. For more information, please visit pinecrestschool.org or call 703.354.3446. Pyne Studios, Inc. is remodeling more than just beautiful homes this year. We have created a new monthly e-newsletter, and have totally remodeled our website and added a blog. We even have a new domain name. We have gone from www.pynestudios.NET to www.pynestudios.COM where you can sign up for our newsletter and view helpful homeowner and home remodeling information which we’ll expand over time. Each month our e-newsletter will bring you interesting articles about remodeling, home design, innovative home products and more. Sign up now! Subway on Columbia Pike offers Lunch Programs tailored to your organization’s needs. Whether your school, college, church, mosque, rec-sport center, or corporate cafeteria is self-operated or run by a contractor, our Annandale Subway Lunch Program provides the flexibility to select a program that suits your needs. We are able to set up temporary kiosks, build semi-permanent kiosks, or even a full size restaurant for you. If there isn’t space for a kiosk, you can choose our Delivery Program. Select which sandwiches you want, and we will deliver them to you on a schedule that works for you. Please contact Annandale Subway at 7120 Columbia Pike, Annandale. Phone: 703914-0391. Email the owner at emil_ranakusuma@yahoo.com or call his cell at 703-789-3459 Sunset Grille: We offer daily blue plate specials until 3 pm for only $6.00. Our quick friendly service will allow for a great lunch and plenty of time to get back to the office. Visit our website at www.thesunsetgrille.com for more information or drop in the next time you pass. We have live evening entertainment and a menu that is sure to please. 7250 Columbia Pike, Annandale 703-658-0928 Tim Frazier Tree Service: Do your trees need trimming, topping, cabling, or removing? Did the blizzard leave damaged trees in your yard? 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. 1-888-873-8746 toll free. I have worked for many Chamber members. Contact the Chamber office for references at 703-256-7232 or info@annandalechamber.com Virginia Commerce Bank: Get the VCB buzz! Hear Peter Converse, President and CEO of Virginia Commerce Bank, on the air waves of WTOP (103.5 FM), MIX 107.3 and WMAL (630 AM) with news about VCB's dedication to relationship banking and role as trusted financial advisor. Also spot the Bank’s message in area papers, including The Washington Post. Call Soo Yeo of VCB's Annandale branch at 703-256-8889 to learn more. 4230 John Marr Drive, Annandale. Virginia Heritage Mortgage: First time homebuyers can qualify for up to $10,000 that need not be repaid if the buyers stay in the home for five years. Learn more! Call Bruce Gordon at 703-855-4087. ENDEAVOR July 2010 31 Falls Church High School Building on Our Success...One Child at a Time. Jaguar Joe A Cup Above the Rest Our own sensational blend of coffee. Buy our coffee for your office or restaurant and support Annandale Students. 7521 Jaguar Trail Falls Church, VA 22042 703-207-4000 Frederick.Coulter@fcps.edu www.fcps.edu/FallsChurchHS July 2010 32 ENDEAVOR Calendar Of Events All reservations and entrée selection for luncheons can be made on the Chamber website at www.annandalechamber.com or by emailing: info@annandalechamber.com. Luncheons are generally $20.00/members and $25.00/non members. RESERVATIONS ARE NECESSARY. Breakfasts are $12.00 members and $15.00/non members. Date Event Location Time Description Thurs. Sept. 9 Luncheon Juke Box Diner 7039 Columbia Pike NOON – 1:30 PM State of the Commonwealth State Delegate Vivian Watts Tues. Sept. 28 Networking Breakfast Magills Restaurant 7201 Little River Tpk. (across from Giant Food) 8:30 AM Networking Opportunity Thurs. Oct. 7 Board Meeting Knights of Columbus 4200 Martin St. NOON Thurs. Oct. 14 Luncheon Juke Box Diner 7039 Columbia Pike NOON – 1:30 PM Sat. Oct 23 Annual Parade Fall Festival Columbia Pike Safeway Shopping Center 10 AM—NOON 10 AM—5 PM Fun , food, & games for the entire family! Thurs. Oct. 28 Networking S Happy Hour Silverado Restaurant 7052 Columbia Pike 4-5 PM Networking Opportunity Thurs. Nov. 4 Board Meeting Knights of Columbus 4200 Martin St. NOON Wed. Nov. 10 Inter-Service Luncheon Little Theatre Dining Room, FCHS 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church NOON – 1:30 PM Thurs. Dec. 2 Board Meeting Knights of Columbus 4200 Martin St. NOON Fri. Dec. 3 Holiday Lighting Reception Toll House Park Burke & Herbert Bank 5:00 PM 6:00 PM Carols and lighting of the town tree. Music, food, and merriment Sat. May 21, 2011 Bed Race to benefit Special Olympics VA John Marr Drive 10 AM Start putting your team together! May 6-22, 2011 Spring Carnival K-Mart Parking Lot Thurs. June 9, 2011 Annual Awards Green Spring Gardens Ceremony & Luncheon The Labor Market & the War for Talent Strategies that make talent acquisition less stressful & successful. Annandale Revitalization & New Transportation Plan SAVE THE DATE Annual event for the entire family. NOON-2:30 PM Limited seating—make your reservations early. No Breakfasts or Luncheons in July or August or Board Meeting in August. For Vendor, Entertainment, Volunteer, and Sponsorship Opportunities for the Festival or for the Parade Entry Form please download directly from www.annandalechamber.com. Annandale Chamber of Commerce 7263 Maple Place, #207 Annandale, VA 22003 info@annandalechamber.com
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