How Much Home Insurance Do I Need?
Should I use Market Value or Replacement Cost?
What is Market Value? Take the current condition of your house and the associated land and what would a likely buyer pay? Most homeowners think their homes are worth much more than potential buyers may; just ask any real estate agent attempting to sell an overpriced home. Realistically, the value of any home is what the market determines and includes not simply the brick and mortar but the location, local crime statistics (are you in a safe neighborhood), the associated school district (parents will often pay more to be in a specific positively recognized district), and whether or not the market is flooded with similar homes in that neighborhood. How large is your lot? Although the land is not covered by the homeowner’s policy it certainly influences the market value of the home.
Homes insured for Market value very often leave you at risk providing inadequate coverage. As an example, let’s say you paid and carry coverage for $350,000 for your new home. Within a handful of years, especially in a hot real estate market, your home would sell for $410,000. In ten years that same home might sell for $500,000. If you have not been continually increasing your coverage, you would be out of pocket $150,000 if your home suffered complete destruction in a fire. As much as we all try to stay on top of our personal and financial affairs, life, our children’s needs, work and community commitments occupy all of our time. It is easy to overlook reviewing your policy each and every year and obtaining updated appraisals.
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MEET THE ARTISAN: Marilu Del Carpio
I am originally from Peru and now I am a US citizen living in the Washington DC Metro area having moved here in 1966.
I graduated from American University with a Master’s Degree in Information Technology Management.
For forty years I worked in the international development world as a management consultant which involves identifying problems and working on solutions, ranging from organization to process analysis and innovation, change management and human resources.
I never imagined that I would be making something with my hands – perhaps it is in my genes inherited from both my Artisan parents. In 2006, I discovered jewelry making by accident. A handmade piece broke and I decided to fix it myself with the help of jewelry magazines – and I was hooked. At the time, I was retired taking care of my grand kids. With some time on my hands, and the encouragement of my family and friends, jewelry making became a hobby and, soon after, friends started buying my work.
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Annandale Real Estate: Rental Market on Fire
Rental market on fire--what?! Yes, rental properties are now a hot commodity with multiple applications in many locations not only close-in but Loudoun and Prince William Counties. Why? One reason could be that with the increase in sales prices investors are selling now vs. waiting. It could be that some investors are tired of being landlords. It could be that some buyers have bowed out of the frenzied market and decided to rent instead. And, it could just be the usual seasonal increase in people moving into the area for new jobs.
With all this combined there is simply a shortage of rentals plus an increase in their list prices! A year ago rentals were languishing on the market but now are renting in less than 5 days. And, the criteria, (especially for credit scores) is getting more difficult making qualifying more problematic. I just had a client lose a property in Loudoun County where there were 4 applicants, 2 with credit scores over 800 and salary higher than my client's by $100k. The harsh reality is that every time the credit score is run, the applicant's score drops!
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UnCovered: 100 Years of Voting Machines
Over the decades Virginia has utilized a number of voting methods. First there was the voice vote, then the paper ballot, later an electronic machine with a handle pulled much like a slot machine which locked in your vote. For a short time flat screens were used but were either too confusing for some or required more finger pressure for others in order to be certain their choice was clear. Now, we are back to paper ballots that remind one of a SAT test warning the voter to completely fill in the desired oval next to the candidate’s name. All have properly recorded votes cast yet the more things change the more they stay the same.
Recently, the Fairfax County Park Authority printed this story about a wood ballot box used 100 years ago. “When America was founded, there was no expectation of privacy in voting. The voter’s choice, along with their name and address, were recorded into polling books as they voted by voice.
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Pictured: 1890 Gillespie Voting Machine
VIEW ON NATURE: Crazy Cats
Met-a-mor-pho-sis – a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one, by natural or supernatural means. To me, the complete transformation of caterpillars into butterflies or moths is both natural and supernatural.
When you see a beautiful butterfly or moth, do you ever wonder what the adolescent caterpillar looked like? Like the adults, caterpillars come in every size, color, and pattern, from small, medium, large, skinny, plump, fat, short, and long in every imaginable color. But their variety doesn’t stop there when you consider the seemingly endless array of color designs, stunning camouflages, and textures. What other animal species comes in different textures -- smooth, bumpy, furry, fuzzy and spikey?! Rest assured, with 1,386 species of butterflies and over 400 species of moths recorded in Virginia, there’s a whole lot of caterpillar diversity!
Serving as a vital food source for birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, and other predators pushed caterpillars’ ancient ancestors to adapt to offset their vulnerabilities. Of all living creatures in Virginia, I’m most impressed and amazed at how caterpillars have evolved to protect themselves though camouflage, deception, intimidation, and weaponry.
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Find Where Native Animals Live in the Forest
The Woodland Wildlife Tree Sculpture at Hidden Oaks Nature Center celebrates native wildlife with a whimsical display of 11 species of animals scampering around a dead tree. If the animals were real, they could never share the same tree. Some would fear being eaten by the animal on the other side, and others would just find the closeness too unnerving! Park visitors can now enjoy a walk along the 1/3-mile Old Oak Trail to learn where each of the animals would live in the woodland habitat.
The trail leads visitors along a loop around Hidden Oaks Nature Center. Now as visitors stroll on the wood chipped trail, the shelter and other habitat needs of each creature are revealed. Cutouts of each of the animals indicate where each would find suitable shelter. More details are available on a brochure found at the front entrance of Hidden Oaks or by scanning the QR code on the individual animal sign.
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NOVA is Back and Thriving
Learned Lessons from Our Virtual Experience
After transitioning into telework for employees and remote instruction for students in March 2020 because of the pandemic, NOVA will be back to full on-campus operations for the Fall 2021 Semester, starting on August 23.
NOVA will come back better than ever before because we have learned some lessons from our virtual experience that will improve the services and instruction we offer.
We established safety protocols that will continue into the foreseeable future, including handwashing signage, hygiene stations in classrooms and hallways, providing free face coverings and alcohol wipes, improving indoor air quality, and maintaining enhanced cleaning services.
Social distancing and capacity restrictions have been lifted in Virginia and NOVA will not impose additional social distancing requirements for students or employees. But, in accordance with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), NOVA recommends face coverings for all non-vaccinated employees and students.
Vaccinated students and employees can continue to wear face covering if they choose to do so and they will be available to students and employees who do not have them at each campus NOVA Parking and NOVACard Office.
It was on January 1, 2020, when Dr. Anne Kress took office as NOVA’s new president and was almost immediately faced with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spring 2020 Semester started on January 13 and Spring Break began on March 9, with students due back to campuses on March 15.
Worried about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our students and employees, Dr. Kress issued an order on March 11 telling students not to return to campus after the break, cancelled March 16 and 17 classes, and moved classes to remote instruction om March 18.
On March 12, Governor Northam declared a State of Emergency to combat the pandemic, which prompted Dr. Kress to order employees on March 13 to begin teleworking. To track guidance from state and federal authorities, the Return to NOVA Advisory Group, led by our Office of Emergency Management, was created and we have followed their advice throughout this period.
We provided instruction online either through asynchronous classes offered by NOVA Online that could be viewed at any time or synchronous classes offered via Zoom at set times with a live instructor like it was live in the classroom.
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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.
Mixed-Use Community and State-of-the-Art Medical Campus at Landmark
City of Alexandria Approves Project
At its July 6 meeting, the Alexandria City Council unanimously approved the redevelopment agreements for the site of the former Landmark Mall, which will result in up to approximately four million square feet of new development. The project will be anchored by the relocation and expansion of Inova’s new state-of-the-art Alexandria Hospital bringing more than 2,000 health care workers to the medical campus. This transformational project—led by developer Foulger-Pratt—was recently named by the Washington Business Journal as the 2020 Real Estate Deal of the Year.
The 52-acre Landmark site is one of the most desirable large-scale underdeveloped locations remaining inside the Capital Beltway. The project will transform the currently unoccupied mall into a mixed-use, walkable urban village and will propel the revitalization of the West End of the City of Alexandria. The plan will result in more than $2 billion in investment in the community, including the new Inova hospital, medical office buildings, for-rent and for-sale multifamily residential units, retail, commercial, and entertainment offerings. Additionally, the project will provide outdoor parks, a replacement for Fire Station 208, affordable housing, and a transit hub anchoring the City's proposed bus rapid transit network, DASH, and Metrobus. Construction at the site could begin as soon as 2023, with the first buildings delivering in 2025.
“Tonight’s vote by City Council helps cement the path forward for the Landmark site and the West End of Alexandria,” said Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson. “This long-anticipated project will not only revitalize a currently vacant site many had given up on and provide significant new economic activity, but will also be a catalyst for redevelopment and enhancements throughout the West End of our City. This truly transformational redevelopment of the Landmark mall site will provide a new, modern hospital facility where Inova can continue to provide world-class care to our community and to the region. In addition, the much-needed mixed-income housing; new municipal facilities and services; and new open space will come together at this site to support and enhance the health, wellness and quality of life of the West End and our entire community for generations to come.”
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CHILD TAX CREDIT
The Child Tax Credit in the American Rescue Plan Act -- which was signed into law by President Biden on March 11, 2021 -- provides the largest Child Tax Credit ever and historic relief to the most working families ever and most families will automatically receive monthly payments without having to take any action.
For those with children, the American Rescue Plan increased the Child Tax Credit from $2,000 per child to $3,000 per child for children over the age of six and from $2,000 to $3,600 for children under the age of six, and raised the age limit from 16 to 17. All working families will get the full credit if they make up to $150,000 for a couple or $112,500 for a family with a single parent (also called Head of Household).
If you’ve filed tax returns for 2019 or 2020, or if you signed up to receive a stimulus check from the Internal Revenue Service, you will get this tax relief automatically. You do not need to sign up or take any action.
People who receive payments by direct deposit will get their first payment on July 15, 2021. After that, payments will go out on the 15 of every month. (In August the payment will go out on August 13 since the 15 falls on a weekend.) If you haven’t provided the IRS with your bank account information on a recent tax return, a check will be sent out to you around the same time to the address the IRS has for you.
For additional information, visit the The White House's website.
Annandale Area Swimming Pools
Splash Your Way through Summer
Most neighborhood and community pools intend to open Memorial Weekend or the one after. Contact them directly for information.
Annandale Swim and Tennis Club
7530 Little River Turnpike, Annandale 22003
Membership contact: 703-354-4272 ast22003@gmail.com
Swim team: Red Tide
Social activities: Family dinners, movie nights, family campout and sleepover, annual pig roast, dog swim, ladies’ night party, men’s Texas hold ‘em party,
Special features: Dive team and tennis team, pool slides.
Audrey Moore Recreational Center at Wakefield Park
8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA 22003
703-321-7081
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wakerec.htm
Fully equipped recreational center located within Wakefield Park with a 50m x 25yd pool, one 3m and two 1m diving boards, and super slide. The natatorium also contains spectator seating, doors that lead to a spacious outdoor sundeck, and locker rooms containing saunas and showers. In addition to the various racquetball/wallyball and squash courts, the center has a large gymnasium with six basketball hoops, and volleyball nets. The center also contains a cycle studio, a dance room, a pottery lab and kiln, an arts and crafts room, a photography lab, three multi-purpose activity rooms, and a senior center. Over 40 fitness classes each week are offered for all ages.
Wakefield Park has miles of outdoor trails including the Cross County Trail which is utilized by cyclists, runners and nature lovers. There are well lit outdoor basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, baseball & softball diamonds, a newly expanded skate board park, and soccer fields. An extensive summer camp program is held each year along with the Braddock Farmer's Market on Wednesdays during early May to late October from 2-6pm.
Broyhill Crest Recreation Club
7212 Early St., Annandale 22003
Membership contact: 703-560-1282, 703-914-9608 (front desk)
Swim team: Barracudas
Social activities: Weekly float night, Friday evening happy hours, Sunday night dinners, annual pig roast and silent auction, Fourth of July festivities, Christmas in July, Oktoberfest. Special features: Snack bar, party pavilion available for rental, playground, swim lessons, volleyball, basketball, tennis courts.
Camelot Community Club
3604 Balin Court, Annandale 22003
Membership contact: 703-876-0611, bgagermeier@gmail.com
Swim team: Knights
Social activities: Float nights, adult socials.
Special features: Dive team, covered pavilion, aqua fitness and yoga classes.
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Summer Day Camps & Youth Activities in Annandale
Annandale has a number of great summer day camp programs for children that will entertain and thrill your kids this year. All are well supervised fun programs with a variety of activities to hold the interest of the campers while providing memorable experiences.
Kenwood School Summer Day Camp
At Kenwood Summer Day Camp the children not only go on exciting trips everyday but also have a wide variety of activities to keep them entertained while they are at camp. When the campers arrive in the morning they are greeted by our friendly camp counselors and immediately go join their friends on our large, wooded playground. Our playground equipment is top notch but you will likely say goodbye to your child as they are running to join the basketball or kickball game in progress on the blacktop. As the day warms up the campers go in groups to one of our 5 themed rooms to cool off and play.
- Game Room - board games, air hockey and foosball tables, and a Wii with a projector
- Art Room - weekly arts & crafts projects to make and take home
- Lounge - bean bag chairs, oversized pillows to relax on, books and magazines to read
- Video Game Room - jam packed with televisions with playstations and lots of games to choose from
- Gym - basketball, volleyball, or relay races are played in a nice, air conditioned environment
- Extended Day at no additional charge (7 am to 6 pm)
- Week by Week Sign-Up
- Weekly Tuition covers all activity fees
- Sibling Discounts
- Family Registration
4955 Sunset Lane
Annandale, VA 22003
703-256-4711
www.kenwoodschool.com/services/
Hapmudo Summer Camp &
After-School Tutoring Programs
Summer Programs include well supervised field trips for swimming and many child friendly activities to promote health, social interaction, and just plain fun. Hapmudo also offers an evening Martial Arts program with a 15% discount if you mention the Chamber of Commerce. Contact them directly for more information on these classes or details on the Summer Program. See below for information on this amazing organization.
“Lee’s Hapmudo Martial Arts Studio has been a fixture in Annandale for decades providing classes for adults as well as children. Located in the Annandale Shopping Center on Columbia Pike, Grand Master Lee believes that the study of Martial Arts is a method of living as well as an art. He wants his students to study the philosophies of Martial Arts through which they will master good manners and the values needed to achieve happiness in everyday life and to become true friends and good citizens. Frequently, the students display their community commitment with energetic demonstrations at events such as the Spring Bed Race and other Annandale and Metropolitan area events. Master Lee practices what he teaches, regularly giving back to the community; he exemplifies the term, "good citizen."
Lee’s Hapmudo offers various styles of training in Hapkido, Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Jujitsu, Aidido, Kendo, and Judo. In his many years of teaching, Grand Master Lee has helped his students overcome and improve problems such as asthma, chronic back pain, and addiction. Students are taught to develop self-discipline and self-control. Perhaps his proudest achievement is the number of children he has helped with learning disabilities and other scholastic behavior problems.
Classes are offered during the day and in the evenings along with summer camps. An excellent after school program offers homework assistance and transportation from school. Discounts are also provided for law enforcement, military personnel, and families.”
7036 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003
(In the Annandale Shopping Center - Columbia Pike at Gallows Road)
703-750-3330
www.hapmudo.net
webmaster@hapmudo.net
Annandale Boys & Girls Club
Since 1959 the Annandale Boys and Girls Club has organized team sports in the Annandale area. If you wish to play Soccer, Basketball, Football, Lacrosse, Cheerleading, and any number of other spots, this is the organization to contact. Operating out of their downtown Annandale office on Annandale Road, the club also operates a Bingo Hall on Friday and Saturday nights in nearby Alexandria and has a Sports Center a few miles from Annandale in Springfield, VA.
The Annandale Boys & Girls Club mission is to provide a variety of instructional, recreational and competitive youth sports opportunities, emphasizing learning, teamwork and sportsmanship, focusing on age-appropriate player development that is fun, improves self-esteem, self-confidence, and respect for others. The club has many sports programs for youth fitness and a few affiliated programs for adult fitness.
Soccer programs
- for youth Pre-K to 4th grade are provided through Recreation Soccer
- for youth ages 10-19 can participate in Suburban Friendship League (SFL) Soccer
- On a competitive selection basis, some are asked to participate in Travel Soccer, which involves travel to tournaments around the state, the country, and sometimes outside the U.S.
- Soccer programs also include camp sessions - three in the Summer and one in the Spring - where players can develop their skills.
- Winter Indoor Soccer.
In addition to year-round soccer programs, the club has
- Fall Sports: Football, Cheerleading, Field Hockey and T-Ball;
- Winter Sports: Basketball and Wrestling; and
- Spring Sports: Lacrosse, and T-Ball.
- Boxing is available year-round.
REGISTRATION FOR FALL SPORTS PROGRAMS NOW AVAILABLE
Annandale Boys & Girls Club
4216 Annandale Road
Annandale, VA 22003
703.941.4411
abgc@abgc.org
www.ABGC.org
GREEN SPRING GARDENS - Summer 2021
GARDEN PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS
Saturday, August 14
Garden Tour: Green Spring Up and Down
10-11:30am. (Adults) Extension Master Gardener docents lead a special “Grand Tour” of Green Spring! View some upper demonstration gardens, then take the garden path less travelled to explore the naturalistic lower garden areas: the Virginia Native Plant Garden, woodland stream valley, and ponds. Tour involves a steep slope with loose gravel. $15 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 8A0.I0PR) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173. 
Historic Green Spring Virtual Tea Programs 
This summer, Historic Green Spring invites you to enjoy five virtual afternoon tea programs at home. All registrants will be sent a link by e-mail to attend the lectures on Zoom. Make an occasion of it. Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea just like the ones served at the Historic House. Optional afternoon tea boxes prepared by our caterer will be available for pick up at Green Spring Gardens between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the day of the program. Tea boxes include savory finger sandwiches, pastry, scones, with cream and jam, and tea bag. Just put the kettle on, relax, and enjoy. 
Sunday, August 15
Brush Up Your British
2-3pm. (Adults) Celebrate Britain’s National Afternoon Tea Week by exploring linguistic and cultural differences between Britain and America. Compare customs and manners in these two nations “divided by a common language” - at the tea table and beyond! Lecture only: $12/ Optional tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code FB8.E4K2) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
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Passenger Rail Service Coming to the New River Valley
Virginia Tech Students and Families Celebrate
$257 million is being invested to bring passenger rail to the New River Valley. In addition to Christiansburg getting an Amtrak station, starting in 2022, Northam announced that a second train will be departing Roanoke to Washington, D.C. By 2025, both trains will be extended to the Christiansburg station.
The more than quarter-billion-dollar investment will also allow for railroad infrastructure upgrades in Southwest Virginia.
The Amtrak station in Christiansburg is part of both Amtrak’s 2035 vision and the Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative.
The VA Governor Ralph Northam gave the announcement from just outside the Regal theater at Uptown Christiansburg, more commonly known as the New River Valley Mall. While there, the governor ceremonially signed legislation creating the New River Valley Passenger Rail Station Authority.
READ MORE ABOUT HIGH SPEED RAIL SERVICE
Lost Your COVID-19 Vaccination Card?
Here’s How to Get a Copy of Your Record
After you receive a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, you are handed a vaccination card that lists the type of vaccine received and the date the shot was given. You are asked to bring back this card if you require a second dose, as is the case if you received the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine. This card is proof that following two doses, or one dose for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, that you are fully vaccinated.
But what happens if you lose your card?
You may have been instructed to take a photo of the front and back side of your card. However, if you have misplaced your card, you can email the Virginia Immunization Information System (VIIS) help desk at vaccinerecord@vdh.virginia.gov, or call the VIIS help desk at 1-866-375-9795 to request a copy of your vaccination record. The help desk operates from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
In addition, you can also request a copy of your vaccination record by filling out an an Immunization Record Request Form. Within 24 to 48 hours, a VIIS representative will contact you.
Sully Historic Plantation
Sully was the country home of Richard Bland and Elizabeth Collins Lee. It was built in 1794 on land inherited by Richard's father, Henry Lee II. The house was situated on, what was originally, a 3,111-acre tract between Cub and Flatlick Runs, then part of Loudoun County, Virginia.
In 1789, Lee was elected to represent Northern Virginia in the first Congress of the United States. For the next five years, he spent a good deal of his time in New York and Philadelphia, where the delegates convened. By the end of 1793, construction began on the manor house and its associated buildings, which eventually replaced the log house that was Richard Bland Lee's bachelor residence.
From Philadelphia, Lee ordered the necessary supplies and forwarded building instructions to his agent in Virginia. Nails, plaster of Paris, linseed oil, window weights and ropes, and two marble hearths were among the cargoes shipped by sloop to the port of Alexandria and transported by wagon the remaining 20 miles to Sully. "The colors I directed were slate for the Roof and Stone for the Body inside and out," Lee wrote. "Urge the painter to lose no time in his work."
Two-and-a-half stories high and three bays wide, Sully bears a resemblance to the townhouses of Philadelphia, the city where Lee met and married Elizabeth Collins. She was the daughter of a Quaker merchant. Stephen Collins, visiting his daughter's Chantilly home in September 1794, wrote to assure his wife that Sully was "a clever house, has an elegant hall 12 feet wide and two very pretty rooms on the first floor....There are two large and one small Chamber in the second story, and one handsome and large chamber in the third or garret story and another good lodging room besides
The Lee home was, by design, a fit residence for a man of Lee's station and a comfortable dwelling place for his wife and built during the nation's Federal Period (1790-1820). Outside, the clapboard siding conceals mortared brick set between the studs of the frame. Inside, the floor plan presents one half of a center hall configuration in keeping with Lee's initial plans to build a second full wing at a later date.
Sitting rooms and living quarters open onto the first floor hall and second floor passageway. Lee's cousin, Thomas Shippen, a house guest from Pennsylvania in 1794, reported to his father, "I would fain give you some idea of the elegance in which this kinsman of ours has settled himself...This house (is) lately furnished from Philadelphia with every article of silver plate, mahogany, wilton carpeting, and glassware that can be conceived... Parlours and chambers completely equipped with every luxury as well as convenience."
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Collector’s World Expanding
A New Venue for Games and Events
Collector's World Comic Heroes
Later this year, Collector’s World in the Annandale Shopping Center will be moving next door to Mathnasium and expanding to over 6,000 square feet. Their dedicated retail space will more than double plus two additional rooms will be added. One will host their online business sales and the other a very exciting event/game room. No matter your age, when walking into this business you can’t help but feel that FUN is heading your way.
Much attention is being paid to expanding their inventory system and selection to 1 million cards ranging from modern and vintage to non-sports. They will also expand their comics section to over 50,000 and add a customer aide table where patrons can sit and sort through their favorite cards and comics. Aside from retail buying and selling, Collector’s World will host special events focusing on gaming, cosplay, authentication, card shows, tent sales and children’s gatherings.
Focusing on their customer experience, the new and expanded Collector’s World will be a very kid friendly location with special perks for good grades and enough stock to provide excitement for kids, their family, and adults alike.
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Make a Stop at Burke Lake’s New
Train-Themed Ice Cream Parlor
Stopping for a snack at Burke Lake’s newly renovated ice cream parlor is like putting a cherry on top of your day at the park.
The park’s old-fashioned ice cream parlor has long been a favorite of families after they take a spin on the carousel or a ride on the miniature steam engine train. Now, the parlor has a whole new locomotive-themed look that features a miniature train making laps around the perimeter of the ceiling.
Brian Costello, vice president of Jay Vending Company, said the parlor has been redone from top to bottom with new ice cream equipment, new flooring and paint, and a new countertop sneeze guard and facade. There are new tables and chairs, and even the trash cans are new.
Costello said the ice cream parlor needed a makeover, and it was easy to decide on a train theme since many of the parlor’s customers are parents with young children who come to the park to ride the nearby train. The train theme can be found throughout the space in the menu board, novelty railroad crossing sign, window decals and train-station style clock.
The menu has been revamped, too. You can now find chocolate and caramel ice cream sundaes, as well as coffee; and the parlor is in the process of adding pizza. Other menu offerings include milkshakes, root beer floats, cherry or blue raspberry slushies, all-beef hot dogs, soda, bottled water, and juice boxes. Of course, there’s also ice cream. Choose from eight delicious flavors.
Burke Lake’s Ice Cream Parlor is open weekends only in April, May, September and October from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will be open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Weekday hours are 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Burke Lake Park is located at 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, Virginia. For more information, call 703-323-6600; or visit Burke Lake Park.
Let the Good Times Roll
Summer Treats are Coming Your Way
Remember the long lost days of your youth listening for the musical chimes of the Ice Cream Truck rolling down your neighborhood street? Today, that truck has been replaced by a Kona Ice Truck filled with the most delicious assortment of flavored toppings on icy refreshing snow cones.
Just a bit more than a year ago, chamber member Trung Dinh bought his first Kona Ice Truck, worked closely with the Fairfax County Health Dept. to insure all safe practices were employed during this strange and challenging Covid year, and began to bring Kona Ice treats to the neighborhoods and businesses of Annandale.
Trung Dinh is a small business owner living in Burke with his family. For twenty-two years he worked in the Information Technology industry, lived abroad in Australia, and traveled all over the world. In 2018 he decided to leave IT and the constant travel to pursue his dream of becoming an entrepreneur while putting down firm roots with his family. He also wanted to find a business where he could give back to the community while making customers happy.
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ON THE ENERGY FRONT
Celebrate Earth Day 
Each year on April 22, Virginians everywhere celebrate Earth Day and the natural beauty we are so lucky to have in our state. As many Virginians continue to work at home amid the ongoing pandemic, this could reflect a long-term trend of residents remotely working. Interestingly, recent consumer energy use behavior research from Virginia Energy Sense (VES) found that 47% of respondents noted an increase in energy use at home during the pandemic. In addition to that statistic, 49% of respondents said they have become more conscious of their energy use since the start of the pandemic last year.
Residents making efforts to become more energy efficient and energy conscious are major steps forward that should continue beyond after Earth Day. As our research results show, there’s still more work that can be done. (VES, the state’s energy education program under the guidance of the State Corporation Commission, has worked to inform Virginians of easy, cost-effective ways to reduce electric energy consumption at home and at work. To aid this effort, VES has prepared a list of easy, do-it-yourself tips on saving energy included below.
Home Energy Saving Tips
Unplug unused devices – Unplugging devices not in use can save up to 10% on your power bill.
Maintain your HVAC system – Keeping your HVAC system running smoothly not only improves the comfort of your home, but also ensures it is running efficiency during the summer.
Keep your thermostat high – As the weather gets warmer, try to raise the thermostat by 2 degrees and use ceiling fans, if your home has them, to cool your home and reduce AC costs by up to 14%.
Switch to LEDs – Not only do LEDs last longer than traditional incandescent lightbulbs, they also use up to 80% less energy and can help cut down on your monthly energy bill.
Caulk doors and windows – Caulking gaps and cracks around doors and windows with weather stripping materials can cut your energy bill by as much as 20%.
Please consider taking some time this Earth Day to perform at least one of the DIY tips listed above – they really can make a difference in reducing energy consumption at home.
From using your appliances more efficiently to monitoring your weekly energy use, there are many ways for you to take action this Earth Day. For more information, hear from Jack, our friend at Virginia Energy Sense who wants you to take steps to become more energy efficient this Earth Day.
Visit www.virginiaenergysense.org and our YouTube channel for more tips, How-To videos and other resources to help you save energy at home this Spring.
Shop Locally and Support Annandale Merchants
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. MORE ABOUT ANNSANDRA Sunday & Monday – CLOSED
Tuesday - Friday - 12PM -5:00PMSaturday - 10AM - 5:30PM. 4417 John Marr DriveAnnandale, VA. 22003703-354-2110 - 800-357-2110info@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.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 CardsPinecrest Golf CourseCorner of Braddock and Little River6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
(703) 941-1061 . www.fairfaxcounty.gov/golf/pinecrest
Comics, Collector's Cards and Sports MemorabiliaCollector's World7030 Columbia Pike (current location), Annandale, VA 22003703-256-8408 . collectorsworldinfo@gmail.comCall for current hours of operation.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
I am originally from Peru and now I am a US citizen living in the Washington DC Metro area having moved here in 1966. 
At Kenwood Summer Day Camp the children not only go on exciting trips everyday but also have a wide variety of activities to keep them entertained while they are at camp. When the campers arrive in the morning they are greeted by our friendly camp counselors and immediately go join their friends on our large, wooded playground. Our playground equipment is top notch but you will likely say goodbye to your child as they are running to join the basketball or kickball game in progress on the blacktop. As the day warms up the campers go in groups to one of our 5 themed rooms to cool off and play.
Summer Programs include well supervised field trips for swimming and many child friendly activities to promote health, social interaction, and just plain fun. Hapmudo also offers an evening Martial Arts program with a 15% discount if you mention the Chamber of Commerce. Contact them directly for more information on these classes or details on the Summer Program. See below for information on this amazing organization.
This summer, Historic Green Spring invites you to enjoy five virtual afternoon tea programs at home. All registrants will be sent a link by e-mail to attend the lectures on Zoom. Make an occasion of it. Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea just like the ones served at the Historic House. Optional afternoon tea boxes prepared by our caterer will be available for pick up at Green Spring Gardens between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the day of the program. Tea boxes include savory finger sandwiches, pastry, scones, with cream and jam, and tea bag. Just put the kettle on, relax, and enjoy.  
$257 million is being invested to bring passenger rail to the New River Valley. 
After you receive a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, you are handed a vaccination card that lists the type of vaccine received and the date the shot was given. You are asked to bring back this card if you require a second dose, as is the case if you received the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine. This card is proof that following two doses, or one dose for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, that you are fully vaccinated.
Stopping for a snack at Burke Lake’s newly renovated ice cream parlor is like putting a cherry on top of your day at the park.
Remember the long lost days of your youth listening for the musical chimes of the Ice Cream Truck rolling down your neighborhood street? Today, that truck has been replaced by a Kona Ice Truck filled with the most delicious assortment of flavored toppings on icy refreshing snow cones. 
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. 
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. 
