ANNANDALE
The Crossroads of Northern Virginia TMRead Annandale's News Magazine,
ENDEAVOR
Annandale News & Latest Articles
Annandale News: Soothing Strings Calm Covid Anxiety
Annandale News: Meet the Artisan Gail Robin
Annandale News: Meet the Artisan Bob Simoniz
Annandale News: Land Mis-Use in Annandale
Annandale Real Estate: Escape to the Country
Annandale History: Grange Halls
History: What a Difference a Century Makes 1921
History: The Contents of a Lady's Handbag
History: The Curious Tale of a Jacket with No Tails
VIEW ON NATURE: Different Feathers Flock Together
ANNANDALE News, Events & Networking
The ENDEAVOR News Magazine is the Chamber's quarterly online publication and the must read magazine in Annandale.
Acquaint yourself with local businesses, community history, revitalization efforts, and issues that concern Annandale: The Crossroads of Northern Virginia TM.
What a Difference a Century Makes: 1921
Counting & confirming the presidential Electoral votes in a calm & dignified manner...the way statesmen and national leaders are supposed to behave.
President: Warren G. Harding
Vice President: Calvin Coolidge
Virginia Governor: Henry Carter Stuart
Chief Justice Supreme Court: William Howard Taft
Speaker of the House: Frederick H. Gillett (R-Massachusetts)
Senate Majority Leader: Henry Cabot Lodge (R-Massachusetts)
VA Senators: Claude A. Swanson & Carter Glass
BORN: John Glen, HRS Prince Philip, Gene Roddenberry, Ben Bradley, Mary Jackson, James Clavell, Alex Haley, Sugar Ray Robinson, Roy Campanella, Betty Friedan, Nancy Reagan
DIED: Bat Masterson, Lady Randolph Churchill, Enrico Caruso, Prince Louis of Battenberg. Emmeline Wells, John Boyd Dunlop
Married: French President Charles de Gaulle (30) weds Yvonne Vendroux (20), Author Ernest Hemingway (22) marries 1st wife Hadley Richardson (29) , Actor Jack Haley (22) weds Florence McFadden
HISTORICAL EVENTS.......READ MORE
VIEW ON NATURE
Different Feathers Flock Together
The first day of winter was December 21, 2020. Known as the Winter Solstice, it’s when our upper half of earth is tilted furthest away from the sun. This cyclic occurrence rarely goes unnoticed in Nature as the longest night and shortest day. Primitive cultures have celebrated this solstice for millennia as the rebirth of the sun.
As a Naturalist, I’ve never liked the expression “the dead of winter”. Nature slows down and tucks in a bit with animals hibernating, less photosynthesis, and the like, but entire complex ecosystems keep thriving. This is also the time of year when all birds are done with their chores of breeding, nest building, rearing young and migration. Instead, during the winter they only have one priority –survive until spring by finding enough food and avoiding hungry predators.
One of my favorite pastimes in the winter woods is finding myself suddenly surrounded by a slow-moving gang of forest birds, a hunting party of several different small species foraging for food together. Most birds eat alone or amongst their own kind, so why change during the winter? A mixed-species foraging flock typically has "nuclear" species central to its formation and movement. Species that trail them, or "attendants" tend to join the foraging flock when it enters their territory. Carolina chickadees and tufted titmice are usually the ringleaders of the bunch that may include brown creepers, kinglets, wrens, juncos, warblers, vireos, and downy and hairy woodpeckers in unison scouring the deciduous tree tops, trunks, understory, and forest floor for insects, seeds and nuts.
LAND MIS-USE IN ANNANDALE
Hummer Road Intrusion—TOO MUCH DENSITY
Residents of Hummer Woods and surrounding neighborhoods in Annandale are organizing to fight nomination PC19-MA-005, a proposed mixed-use, high density development project.
The proposal by Nicholas Development, calls for a mixed-use development of approximately 835,000 (sf) at the intersection of Hummer Road and Little River Turnpike. Of this, 575,000 (sf) will consist of multifamily dwelling units and townhouses. There will also be 156,000 (sf) of office space, 100,000 (sf) of retail and a parking garage to accommodate approximately 1800 vehicles, on the 10 acre site which is currently occupied by two office buildings and four or five residential properties.
Nicholas Development is currently in the process of seeking approval for an amendment to the Fairfax County Comprehensive Plan, in order to proceed with their development.
Susan Jollie, President of Hummer Woods Civic Association, is reaching out to nearby communities to organize a campaign opposing the project. Jollie states that many local residents aren’t aware of what is being proposed. “Due to COVID-19, it’s been hard to make connections with residents and make them aware of the issue.”
READ MORE
Annandale Real Estate: Escape to the Country
To parody a BBC popular program where a Realtor shows a couple three properties somewhere in the bucolic English countryside, we are seeing a similar trend in our own Metro area.
Just last month my clients closed on a lovely expanded and upgraded Rambler (great floorplan) on over one acre in Prince William County. The hunt had included seeing eight properties and writing offers on four of them before we were successful. Why? Because too many other potential buyers wanted the same properties, even ones needing over $50K in renovations! Finally, we landed the best property by pulling out all the stops in our offer—no home inspection, pay the first $500 of any septic or well repairs, etc. etc. This property was well worth the wait! The major criteria was to have a large lot with privacy. They escaped from a small one level home in a very large subdivision wanting both extensive outdoor space for the family and significantly more interior space.
In this new Covid-19 world, people are not only looking to move out to the country, but also to find a home with space for one or even two home offices as commuting distance is not the major criterion.
GREEN SPRING GARDENS
Programs January - March 2021
Saturday, February 6: Garden Tour: Winter Trunks and Bark 10-11:30am. (Adults) During winter, tree trunks and branches are revealed in all their glory. Explore the gardens with a master gardener docent who highlights a stunning variety of bark color, texture and form and showcases the best trees for ornamental value in the winter landscape. $15 per person . Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code RKS.MIQD) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, February 13: Starting from Scratch with Seeds 10:30am-12pm. (16-Adult) Grow flowers, vegetables and herbs from seed and expand your garden. Be inspired by Green Spring staff member, Susan Eggerton, as she discusses potting mixes, containers, seed treatments, lighting, fertilization, watering, seed sources and timing. Then take home a few seeds to start your own collection. This program will take place on-site with limited registration and social distancing. $22 per person. Wear a mask. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code J1V.K6GF) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
READ MORE
Fiber Artist working with various yarns & felted wool methodologies
Gail Robin has had a lifelong engagement with many aspects and types of fiber related crafting. Her earliest memory was sewing on a treadle sewing machine. Gail made her first knitted afghan when she was a preteen and continued to create her own clothing throughout high school.
Gail’s mother was a major influence working with crochet thread which allowed for fine detail. Her mother also taught Gail how to sew, knit and crochet from the time she was quite young. Gail became an active member of the 4-H qualifying for state garment sewing while still in middle school. Over the years, Gail has mastered many varied crafts. Recently, she works with various yarns and felted wool methodologies
Having made a career in the military, Gail spent her work-a-day life in the dress of the day. It did not allow for a personal nor colorful expression in fashion. Consequently, her fiber art provided her the freedom to utilize an explosion of hues.
ON THE ENERGY FRONT
Take Steps to Save Energy this Winter with Help from Virginia Energy Sense
Take Steps to Save Energy this Winter with Help from Virginia Energy Sense
Each year, Virginia Energy Sense conducts survey research to be better informed of where Virginians stand when it comes to saving energy at home. In the latest research findings, highlighted in our infographic available on our website, the likelihood of Virginians becoming more energy efficient slightly declined from 30% in 2019 to 25% in 2020, but that is due in part to an increasing proportion of Virginians taking steps to become energy efficient. For example, 38% of respondents said they’re adjusting the heat when not at home, up from 31% in 2019.
That shift in behavior is also reflected in Virginians’ energy saving habits in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to our latest survey, 92% of Virginians have already taken steps to reduce their energy consumption prior to the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has made many Virginians spend more time indoors, whether for work or remote learning, and that can cause energy usage to spike. In fact, 47% of respondents in our survey noted they are using more energy at home compared to just 6% who are using less energy than before the pandemic.
In addition to potential energy spikes with increased time indoors, the seasons have changed and temperatures are declining. Winter is here and if your home is not properly prepared for inclement weather, there’s a chance that your energy bill could increase. To help minimize your energy consumption at home during the colder months, Virginia Energy Sense has prepared a list of easy, do-it-yourself tips below.
Winter Energy Saving Tips
Reduce the heat – A great way to save on your energy bill is to lower the temperature of your hot water tank. Adjusting the temperature on your hot water tank by 10 degrees can save up to $9/month.
Reverse your fans – Since hot air rises, run your ceiling fans in reverse (clockwise) to circulate it back to floor level.
Utilize the sun – Open curtains and blinds on your west and south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home. Close those curtains at night to retain heat.
Maintain your HVAC system – Replace dirty air filters in your furnace to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. A clogged filter will cause your system to work harder and expend more energy.
Shop Locally and Support AnnandaleMerchants
AnnSandra Gifts
AnnSandra has 
been the preeminent giftware destination in the Washington D.C., Virginia and Maryland area, for over 39 years. AnnSandra provides a unique experience, now serving second and third generation customers, offering an extensive collection of fine china, crystal, silver, distinctive gift items for any occasion, including a vast variety of holiday gifts.
This retailer prides itself with a well earned reputation for exceptional customer service and expertise, whether you’re shopping in the store or over the phone, our highly trained professionals are committed to delivering unparalleled service with unbeatable prices. 
Looking for that perfect holiday gift, AnnSandra has a superb and varied selection to suit your gift-giving needs. Store pick-up and private appointments are still available along with online and phone orders. Shipping and gift wrapping service on site.
Sunday & Monday – CLOSED
Tuesday - Friday - 12PM -5:00PM
Saturday - 10AM - 5:30PM.
4417 John Marr Drive
Annandale, VA. 22003
703-354-2110 - 800-357-2110
info@annsandra.com . www.annsandra.com
Artisans United Gallery of Gifts
When you shop at the gallery, you will find a wide variety of reasonably priced hand-crafted items by local artisans. Socially distanced shopping at the Gallery is easy. Or, if you can’t visit in person, call to arrange for a virtual tour and shopping. Staff can take payments over the phone and provide curbside pickup. Mailing or delivery to your home may be available, as well.
The holiday show is underway at the Craft Gallery of Artisans United. Visit us at the Packard Center (Annandale Community Park), 4022 Hummer Road, Annandale, VA 22003. We are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
READ MORE ABOUT ARTISANS UNITED
Call us at 703-941-0202 to check on current hours. You may also arrange a Sunday, Monday, or evening visit.
(703)941-0202 . augallery1@gmail.com . www.augallery.org
Golf Gifts and Gift Cards
Pinecrest Golf Course
Corner of Braddock and Little River
6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
(703) 941-1061 . www.fairfaxcounty.gov/golf/pinecrest
Coffee Gifts
Beanetics Coffee Roasters
Annandale Shopping Center
7028 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003
(703) 941-4506 . www.beanetics.com
Tea Gifts and Nature - Garden Gifts
Green Spring Gardens
Off Braddock Rd. behind Pinecrest Shopping Center-Braddock and Little River
6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
(703) 642-5173 . www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring
What to Expect
After you get the vaccine in your upper arm muscle, it’s possible you may experience:
- Pain and swelling at the injection site (this is the most common reaction).
- Fever or chills.
- Muscle aches.
- Tiredness.
- Headache.
It’s ok. While these symptoms may seem worrisome, they are normal and will go away in a few days.
What You Can Do to Reduce Discomfort
To reduce pain and discomfort at the injection site, apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area and consider using or exercising your arm. To reduce discomfort from fever, drink plenty of fluids and dress lightly. You can also take over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve these symptoms.
In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is mild. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider:
- If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours.
- If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days.
Please note: Severe allergic reactions have been reported following the Pfizer vaccine during vaccination outside of clinical trials. Individuals with a known history of severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) should consult with their medical provider before getting the vaccine.
Do Not Be Alarmed. Remember:
- It’s important to remember that side effects may make you feel flu-like and even affect your ability to do daily activities, but these should go away in a few days.
- With the current COVID-19 vaccines, you will need to get a second shot in order for them to work. Get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first shot, unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get a second shot.
- It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require two shots may not protect you until a week or two after your second shot.
How It Works
Vaccines work because they cause the body to produce an immune response against a disease. In the case of the Pfizer vaccine, it gives instructions to our cells to make a harmless piece of what is called the “spike protein.” Our immune system recognizes that these spike proteins don’t belong in our bodies so it begins building an immune response by making antibodies. The antibodies help protect you from getting COVID-19.
The COVID-19 vaccine is a long-anticipated tool that will help slow the spread of illness and end the pandemic. Getting vaccinated will protect you and people around you, including those at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. If you don’t become infected, you can’t spread it to others.
In the meantime, we must continue to wear a mask, social distance, avoid crowds, wash hands and stay home when sick to help us slow the spread of illness.
More Information
NEW COVID GUIDELINES REQUIRED
AS CASE NUMBERS RISE DRAMATICALLY
Nationally, regionally and here in Fairfax County, we’ve witnessed an exponential rise in positive cases in the past 4 weeks. Our daily case counts now top 700 – to put that number in perspective, over the summer we would see 70 cases daily. We expect the trend to continue into February and there are several factors fueling it – cooler weather, private gatherings, holiday travel, fatigue from 24/7 COVID news, and letting our guard down at work and when out in the community.
Initially, vaccine will be made available to health care personnel and residents of long term care facilities. Over the coming months, VDH and the Health Department will implement a plan to vaccinate essential workers and eventually, the general population (subject to vaccine availability). We will engage the business community to help drive home the message with employees and patrons that the vaccines are safe and effective. There are many benefits to getting the vaccine once it is available, including keeping folks from getting the disease, protecting loved ones and helping to stop the pandemic. Here is a simple blog post with the facts. I’ll share more information as it becomes available.
Last week, Governor Northam announced new virus mitigation measures, (see below) which take effect December 14th through January 31, 2021. In a nutshell, gatherings in Virginia are capped at 10 people and the state’s mask mandate is expanded to include outdoor settings where social distancing isn’t possible. There is also a modified stay at home order from midnight to 5am, with some exceptions. The state’s ban on alcohol sales at restaurants, breweries, and other dining establishments past 10 p.m. — and a midnight curfew for the same businesses – continues. Details of the announcement may be found here.
And finally, the County has set up a webpage with regard to vaccines. The information can be found here and will be updated regularly
- Modified Stay at Home Order: All individuals must remain at their place of residence between the hours of 12-5am. Exceptions include obtaining food and goods, traveling to and from work, and seeking medical attention.
- Universal mask requirement: All Virginians aged five and over are required to wear face coverings in indoor settings shared with others and when outdoors within six feet of another person.
- This order expands on the current statewide mask mandate and is consistent with new CDC guidelines, released December 4, which recommend universal wearing of face coverings.
- Reduction in social gatherings: All social gatherings must be limited to 10 individuals both indoors or outdoors, down from the current cap of 25 people.
- Social gatherings include, but are not limited to, parties, celebrations, or other social events.
- This does not apply to religious services, employment settings, or educational settings.
- Restaurants and retail stores are already governed by strict social distancing requirements, and are not included in this limit.
- Continued limits on dining establishments: Restaurants are currently governed by strict social distancing and sanitization requirements, which remain in place.
- The on-site sale, consumption, and possession of alcohol remains prohibited after 10pm in any restaurant, dining establishment, food court, brewery, microbrewery, distillery, winery, or tasting room.
- All restaurants, dining establishments, food courts, breweries, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, and tasting rooms must close by midnight. No liquor can be served after 10 pm.
- Teleworking: Employees that can telework are strongly encouraged to do so.
The media release of Governor Northam's announcement can be found here and the new Executive Order can be found here.
Lake Barcroft Dental Group Celebrates Anniversary
Special Offering in Celebration
This month, Lake Barcroft Dental Group celebrates its one-year anniversary as part of the local community. As part of this celebration Dr. Aseel Mukbel and the team are offering 50% off in-office whitening and $200 off CEREC – in-office -- crowns through January 2021.
Lake Barcroft Dental Group is a one-stop spot for all of your dental needs – it’s located in Barcroft Plaza at the intersection of Columbia Pike and Linconia Road. The practice offers Invisalign and same-day crowns. The practice has an in-house oral surgeon to take care of any extraction needs including wisdom teeth; and endodontist to handle dreaded root canals with a gentle touch; and a periodontist to care for any gum issues.
In addition to Lake Barcroft Dental Group’s robust services, the practice also offers a slew of financing and payment options to ensure the dentistry fits comfortable in your budget, especially during these unprecedented times.
While patient’s budgets are a huge concern during this pandemic, safety is an even bigger concern. At Lake Barcroft Dental Group, that is the team’s top priority. A study by the American Dental Association revealed dentists have less than a 1% COVID-19 positive rate and at Lake Barcroft Dental Group we are taking extra precautions. Patients are taken to their room with no waiting time in the lobby, the clinical team wears multiple masks and face shields during procedures, along with a bevy of other precautions.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
BARCROFT PLAZA . 6464 A1, Lincolnia Rd
703-876-6700 lakebarcroftdentalgroup.com + smilegeneration.com
Connect with the Made in Fairfax Network
Who says we don’t make anything in Northern Virginia? Just in Fairfax County are dozens of small manufacturers making a variety of products including custom furniture, baked goods, personal care products, jewelry — and of course beer and wine. In fact, the county is home to more than 150 small manufacturers. To help them grow, and to encourage more entrepreneurial activity, Fairfax County has created a Made in Fairfax directory to connect local small-production manufacturers to networking groups, marketing opportunities and potential customers. The directory is also a great resource for ordering unique locally made gifts
The directory is a one-stop shop for maker businesses and the people who want to support them and provides a new way for makers to raise their visibility during the COVID-19 pandemic. The makers listed in the directory represent the rich diversity of cultures and people who call Fairfax County home, such as 344 Frost, an artisan stained glass and ceramics company in Fairfax; Dan Burke Designs, a furniture maker and member of the Annandale Chamber and Artisans United Gallery; Semicolon Craft and Forgeworks, a hand-forged blacksmith-goods business in Reston; and Thulisa Naturals, bath and body products manufacturer in the Falls Church area.
The Power of Just One Street
Yesterday, the neighbors on Merrimac Trail in Annandale pooled their efforts and collected food for the ACCA Food Pantry on Columbia Pike. They filled the truck as seen in this photo. It really warms the heart to see people coming together to help those in need. This is the power of just one small street! Thanks go to Eric Kinneman of Kinneman Insurance for spearheading this effort.
Many scout troops and schoolrooms are looking for community service projects. This is one that can easily be organized by parents and teachers. The food pantry is always in need of donations especially now when far more members of our community are out of work and desperately need assistance.
Besides food, paper towels, toothbrushes & toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, and toilet paper are always in short supply.
The Annandale Food Pantry run by ACCA has an outdoor drop off just to the left of the main building. For more information including times donations are received: www.accacares.org
UnCovered
The Curious Tales of a Jacket with No Tail—1820’s
This ladies’ spencer was found in a closet at the home of a Lee family descendant and, according to the donor, the family had used it as a dress-up and costume piece for decades. It was donated to the Fairfax County Park Authority in 1994.
The garment was conserved and stabilized in 2012 due to its fragility. It was analyzed at that time and was dated to around 1820. The outer fabric is mauve silk with a woven pattern of vines and leaves. The neckline, which is U-shaped in the front and V-shaped in the back, is trimmed with a wide, pleated and ruched band. The inner lining of the spencer is a mixture of beige linen for the bodice and wool for the sleeves. It is fully handstitched.
The spencer, a waist-length jacket with no tails, is a unique clothing item from the Regency Era. Its creation is credited to George John Spencer, 2nd Earl Spencer (1758-1834), though there are many versions of the origin story.
The Contents of a Lady’s Handbag
The Year Was 1854
In the early 19th century, women began to use small ornamental handbags in which personal items were carried. A purse was something quite different. A purse was simply a satchel in which only coins were carried since they were heavy and would soon wear holes in any pocket. Consequently, coins were often contained within their own case made of metal, leather or reinforced fabric.
Fashion of the 1850s for both men and women were colorful, sumptuous in style with luxurious fabrics. Sewing machines were increasingly available and the cage crinoline underpinned the dress silhouette.
Women’s dresses were made of lush fabrics often obtained from overseas markets. Silk and velvet were favorites along with beautiful polished cottons loomed largely in England for wear in warmer weather. Dress shapes consisted of fitted bodices to the waist and full bell skirts that were accessorized with ruffles, multiple trims, flowers, and layered flounces. Tight boned corsets narrowed the appearance of the waist but often reduced the natural breathing ability of the women laced within. Fainting,, especially in hot weather, was not unusual. Smelling salts were kept close at hand.
Changing Weather Patterns Require a Coverage Re-Think
Severe Flooding Plagues the Metro Area with Greater Frequency
Standard homeowner policies provide reimbursement coverage for a loss from many causes such as theft, fire, and water damage due to burst pipes & leaking appliances, stopped up sinks and broken toilets. It does not cover damage caused by environmental floods. If water comes over the ground through rainstorms that flood your yard or from lakes - streams that overflow their banks, a homeowner’s policy does not cover you, but flood insurance will add that extra layer of protection for just these occurrences. Protecting you from a devastating financial loss necessitates the correct home insurance coverage. Do you have that coverage?
Flooding is defined by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), “as a temporary overflow of water on normally dry land brought on by landslides, hurricanes, earthquakes or other natural disasters.” According to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), even one inch of water can cause $25,000 worth of damage; that all 50 states have experienced floods; and, that more than 20% of claims come from moderate to low risk areas. Clearly, flood insurance is not simply for high-risk locals. Start your research on FEMA’s website where you will easily find their Flood Map Service Center showing if your address is in a flood zone and what risk level your home/business face.
(https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home)
READ MORE
Soothing Strings Calm Covid Anxiety
The Reunion Music Society
At the Beginning
It’s 1994. Gladys Watkins and Herb Smith, Professors of Music at the NVCC Annandale campus, propose an idea to their friend and colleague, Dr. Claiborne Richardson, eminent music educator and member of the NVCC Board. Your community music association, the Reunion Music Society, has a mission of serving the community through music, but it is too small to form a symphony orchestra. NVCC needs an orchestra ensemble class, but there aren’t enough student musicians to make one viable. How about a collaboration between RMS and the NOVA Annandale campus? Students would get college credit for playing alongside experienced community instrumentalists. Everyone gets a chance to play in a full symphony orchestra. Dr. Richardson agrees wholeheartedly, and with support from Dr. Richard Ernst, NVCC President, the NOVA Annandale Symphony Orchestra is launched.
Cut to 2018. Dr. Richardson, now in frail health, is beaming with pride. The orchestra has just given a sparkling performance of Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez and other substantial works. The collaboration has paid off in spades.
It didn’t take 24 years to reach that level, though. At the very first concert on April 15, 1994, conducted in part by Dr. Richardson, the orchestra presented Samuel Barber’s Serenade for Strings, Copland’s Lincoln Portrait (narrated by Dr Ernst himself) and Fanfare for the Common Man, and other substantial pieces. The orchestra began a long-standing tradition of major concerts in the fall and spring and pops concerts in the summers. The current Music Director, Christopher Johnston, joined the orchestra not long after its founding
UPDATE:
COVID Can't Slow Down the Music!
Video recording outdoor performances
Due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, all indoor concerts and rehearsals have been suspended. Instead, the Reunion Music Society is forming ensembles in preparation for online streaming performances later this year.
Methods we are using for socially-distanced ensemble playing:
- Outdoors
- Live over the internet
- Independent recordings edited together
Pupusas Express -- NOW OPEN
In the Annandale Shopping Center on Columbia Pike at Gallows
Now Open in the Annandale Shopping Center is a much awaited new dining experience known as Pupusas Express. (7042 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003) Delicious, spotlessly clean and friendly, this eatery will delight the young and the young at heart. The menu reflects the traditional Salvadoran dishes offered at affordable prices certain to please every budget.
Known for their warm hospitality and exceptionally quick and courteous service, they have now expanded to four locations. If you are unfamiliar with Salvadoran cuisine, the staff will be happy to discuss ingredients and walk you through the menu offerings.
The traditional Salvadoran foods are a mix of Native American cuisines from indigenous groups and influences from European (Spanish) cuisine. Many of the dishes are made with maize (corn) in one form or another. There is also a heavy use of pork, chicken, and seafood.
El Salvador's most notable dish is the pupusa, a thick handmade corn flour or rice flour flatbread stuffed with cheese, cooked ground pork, chicken, refried beans, or vegetables.
Since most are only $2.40 each, you can afford to try a few combinations. Condiments accompanying the pupusas are pickled-cabbage (a cole slaw known as curitido) and tomato sauce.
A favorite Salvadoran specialty is pupusa stuffed with cheese and the loroco flower. Fernaldia pandurate is a vine with edible flowers known as loroco flowers grown throughout Mexico and Central America and is an important source of food in El Salvador and Guatemala. The plant's buds and flowers are used for cooking in a variety of ways, including in pupusas. At Pupusas Express a special pupusa is stuffed with cheese and the loroco 
flower.
Other well-known Salvadoran dishes include carne guisada (a saucy beef stew with potatoes and carrots), carne asada (grilled steak), Camarones a la Crema (Sauteed shrimp mixed with onions, green peppers and cream), Ceviche de Camaron (lime cooked shrimp), various Tacos, Quesadillas, and Fajitas.
SOUP-SOUP, YOU MUST TRY THE SOUP
Don’t overlook their four soup offerings as they are of special note.
In the Annandale Shopping Center
on Columbia Pike at Gallows Road
7042 Columbia Pike
Annandale, VA 22003
571-378-0018
www.pupusasexpress.com
Open Monday thru Saturday 11 am
to 10 pm, closed on Sunday
Free delivery within 4 miles and a minimum $12.00 order.
Dr. Mudd's House & Museum
Explore Local History
Dr. Mudd’s 19th century farmhouse in Waldorf, MD became an historic site when president Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth. At Dr. Mudd’s, Booth received medical treatment for a broken fibula received when Booth jumped from the President’s theatre box to the stage at Ford’s Theatre in Washington. Booth had just shot the President..
This farmhouse is cozy and bright, and very typical of farmhouse architecture of the mid 19th century. The house features wide plank floors, small bedrooms with multiple beds, fireplaces in each room, well lit from multiple windows and white painted walls. Empire furnishings of fine craftsmanship and an impressive array of tableware and accoutrements adorn a gracious dining room table and sideboards. In the parlor, many Mudd family antiques remain including the sofa where Booth’s broken leg was examined.
Only a fifty minute drive brings you to this historic site and a rather fascinating tour. Docents, in period dress, provide a thorough and friendly tour of both floors and a captivating 1860’s kitchen filled with period pots, jars, utensils, cooking stoves and fires. This kitchen equipment was characteristic of the time and had been in use for centuries but only remained operational for another 50 years. After electricity reached the rural communities kitchens changed forever.
READ MORE
MEET THE ARTISAN: Bob Simoniz
Ye Old Toymaker and Wood Carver
Bob Simoniz first started in crafts after graduating from Virginia Tech and marring his wife Maureen in 1968. He began with leathercraft and placed items in a consignment store in Crystal City near where he worked for the Naval Sea Systems Command. One day the owner asked if he could make wooden toys since she was having problems with her current artisan. That set Bob on the path to creating numerous toys over a period of several years.
During this period he made furniture for his family and eventually for friends. When he bought their current home in 1976, he finished off the lower level adding a family room and two bedrooms managing the construction and wiring himself. Later he added a garage and built a 14x16 addition. With the exception of pouring the foundation, Bob and his wife designed and provided all the labor. When Bob was in college, he worked summers as a helper for an Electrical Construction Company in Lynchburg, VA where he learned the electrical trade.
Over the years of building furniture, Bob always wanted to try wood carving. In 1989, he finally bought a kit and carved a very rough Santa which he still has. Until about 15 years ago, his main carvings were Santa's and snowmen for personal Christmas gifts (usually between 11-15 gifts a year). After taking a class on chip carving with Barry McKenzie, Bob began carving icicles as Christmas gifts. His next door neighbor was ordering 35 for gifts each Christmas.
Then he added Welsh Lovespoons. Lovespoons have been made and given for about 350 years. The earliest example dates to 1667 and can be seen in the Welch Museum in Cardiff although the majority on exhibit date to the 18th and 19th century. They are ornately carved spoons made from a single piece of wood and given by a young suitor as a love token to show his intentions. Tradition has it that the spoon was equivalent to a proposal of marriage. Numerous symbols can be carved into a single spoon expressing the entwining of lives forever, the intention to support her, the number of children envisioned, fidelity, and eternal happiness are but a few. Bob says that he has carved some complex love spoons just for the challenge. Now they are a labor of love.
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MEET THE ARTISAN: Paul Gesalman
I could say I was born with a camera in my hand because my parents were into photography and having my own camera was part of my earliest memories. I grew up in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern Pennsylvania with three quarters of my aunts, uncles and cousins living within a stone's throw. We could have a family reunion at a moment's notice. All this meant I had a lot of nature and family to photograph. My first camera was an Ansco Cadet, which I still own. It was a very basic camera, but with four-square-inch negatives it actually took pretty good pictures. I remember trying to be artistic and creative, but there's only so much a nine-year-old can do.
My progress was slow until I married into a family of photography buffs, primarily my wife and father-in-law. My father-in-law introduced me to the photography of mushrooms and fungi. The diversity is amazing, and it is a good excuse to spend time in the woods. I have always had the goal of photographing wildlife, but that can be frustrating. In contrast, mushrooms don't run away and hide when you try to take their picture. Another benefit of being out of school was being able to upgrade equipment to allow more creativity.
Chamber Membership is an Effective Business Strategy
According to a recent study conducted by the Shapiro Group:
“When consumers know a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 49% more likely to think favorably of that business, and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.” For more information on benefits when joining the Annandale Chamber of Commerce please see......
Membership Information.
Trust Properties
Trust Properties was founded in 1994 and is committed to providing a broad range of Commercial Real Estate Services throughout the Greater Washington Metropolitan area. Staffed by knowledgeable, experienced and dedicated career professionals, Trust Properties takes pride in delivering impeccable levels of service and exceptional results to their clients and customers.
Greg McGillicuddy is a Vice President and Principal Broker at Trust Properties. Greg grew up in Arlington and returned here after completing his studies at Harvard and Hopkins. Greg is one of the most knowledgeable brokers in local real estate, with more than 27 years of experience in the sales and leasing of office, retail and industrial properties and has managed more than two million square feet of properties in the Greater Metro area, including numerous properties here in Annandale. READ MORE
LAMBROS GOLDSMITH AND FINE JEWELRY
Sparkling, even inspiring are the jewelry designs exhibited in abundance at this charming retailer. Lambros and Jayne Magiafas, goldsmith and geologist, are a team made in Jewelers Heaven. Lambros began his goldsmith apprenticeship at the age of 12 in his native Greece while Jayne started her career in the US at the age of 16.
Lambros Goldsmiths is a family owned and operated, full service Fine Jewelry retailer. Founded in 1987, Lambros Goldsmiths has been serving the Fine Jewelry needs of people from around the country. Nestled in our friendly town of Annandale, Lambros Goldsmiths offers uniquely handcrafted Fine Jewelry at competitive prices. READ MORE
RECOVERY PROGRAM SOLUTIONS OF VIRGINIA OFFERS AREA BUSINESSES FREE FACILITATED (MENTAL HEALTH)
SUPPORT GROUP SESSIONS
Sessions are designed to help staff address their concerns related to returning to work during COVID-19
Today, 1/3 of Americans are experiencing clinical anxiety or depression due to COVID-19. As companies develop their potential reopening plans, it is important to gauge the mental state of employees related to the pandemic and returning to the workplace. For example, most working adults are concerned about their personal safety regarding COVID-19, for their children or elderly loved ones while at work during the pandemic, safely traveling to work, and staying safe in a work setting. Recovery Program Solutions of Virginia (RPSV) now offers customized virtual support sessions designed specifically for area businesses. The sessions are facilitated by peer specialists who will help team members work through the concerns they are having individually and as a collective. RPSV’s services are free to the public.
RPSV is an award-winning nonprofit that supports adults with mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness issues across Northern Virginia and specializes in one-on-one and peer group support programs.
Individuals are invited to join any of RPSV’s existing virtual support groups. RPSV can also work with businesses to customize a program for their team members (we can either join an existing virtual meeting or design sessions to address specific needs). Today, more than ever, taking care of your mental health is equally as important as caring for your body. Anxiety, stress, and depression can manifest itself in a variety of ways. RPSV strives to alleviate some of that burden.
For more information on RPSV’s current programming, please visit www.rpsva.org.
Recovery Program Solutions of VA
7611 Little River Turnpike
Annandale 22003
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Help Fill the Needs of Your Neighbors this Winter
As the COVID-19 crisis continues, the need for food donations is greater than ever before. Your support will go a long way in helping to bring relief to our most vulnerable neighbors. For more information or, to donate now, click HERE.
ACCA collects food donations on weekdays with the exception of County Holidays and other scheduled closings from 1 – 5 pm at the food pantry across from Giant Food on Columbia Pike (trailer separate from the day care center) in Annandale.See their website for Saturday donation schedule.
Annandale Christian Community for Action
7200 Columbia Pike Annandale, VA 22003
703-256-0100 info@accacares.org
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Read the Latest
ENDEAVOR News Magazine
The ENDEAVOR News Magazine is the Chamber's quarterly online publication and the must read magazine in Annandale. Acquaint yourself with local businesses, community history, revitalization efforts, and issues that concern Annandale: The Crossroads of Northern Virginia TM.
The Annandale American Legion
Post 1976 is recruiting new members. Veterans and family members welcome to join. Party hall rental is free for 
all members. Call 703-408-9123 and ask for Diane Ramsey.
4206 Daniels Ave, Annandale, VA 22003
(behind the Bank of America building
on Columbia Pike)
Mondays and Thursdays
The Annandale Volunteer Fire Dept. BINGO
Temporarily Halted due to Covid
Doors opening at 4:30pm – Early Birds start at 6:45pm – Regular Sessions starts 7:45pm
- 42” LCD TV monitors display next ball to be called.
- Must be 14 yrs of age to play bingo at AVFD.
- ATM machine available.
- Bingo Hotline is 703-941-1328
- Non-smoking inside format
7128 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003
Ample parking on site. www.avfd.org
Wednesdays at 6 PM
Annandale Boys & Girls Club BINGO
Annandale Boys & Girls Club BINGO
This weekely event is held at Annandale's
American Legion Bicentennial Post 1976
4206 Daniels Ave. . Annandale, VA 22003
located directly behind the Bank of America on Columbia Pike.
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Youth Sports & Summer Camps
in Annandale are best represented by:
Annandale Boys & Girls Club
Lee's Hapmudo Martial Arts Studio
Kenwood School Summer Day Camp
Homeless & Hypothermia Shelters
in Northern Virginia through Fredericksburg (Fairfax, Loudoun, Culpepper, Arlington, Alexandria, and Prince William Counties, plus Manassas & Manassas Park, can be found at: www.novaregion.org/DocumentCenter/View/11750
Office to Prevent and End Homelessness: 703-324-9492 https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/
Families with children who need shelter must contact Coordinated Services Planning at (703) 222-0880 between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm to gain access. After business hours, families with children in need of shelter should go directly to the nearest family shelter.
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Local Web Links:
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Annandale: Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Annandale Revitalization Committee
Annandale Shopping Center
Braddock District Supervisor
Broyhill Park
Danbury Forrest
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