Wednesday, December 29, 2010

How Alexandria City Bureaucracy Didn’t Steal Christmas.

Yes, Arlandria, there is a Christmas Tree.

Sometimes it seems the only folks with skills finely-honed enough to tap into City administered programs reside in Old Town. But that’s okay, we weren’t looking for a program or a handout… just some guidance.

All we really needed was for the lights to light.

The existing landscaping at Le Bosquet at Sunnyside Park is comprised of rocks, shrubs and two park benches. I’d always thought a Christmas tree here might lift the spirits of neighboring residents in this predominantly poor community. Census reports and nap-worthy waits behind school busses in the morning both support my assertion that the largest density of Alexandria’s children live in Arlandria – so how hard could setting up a little tree lighting for the local kids be?

I’d been inspired by past efforts of neighbors like Jack and Lois Stevens, who maintained this park for years under the adopt-a-park program. And by my friend Tom Fitzgerald, who’d spent the better part of a year chasing down the right people to get unattended neighborhood street lights turned back on.
So, my tale began this past summer when a neighbor donated a holly bush that looked like a tree (but couldn't be called a tree because of tree regulations) . We planted it near a lamppost with the help of Santos Flores, a local landscaper who donated his time, equipment, staff and sons Alex, 15 and Darwin, 2. When, sadly, it succumbed to the heat, Santos and I waited until September and headed to the garden center to give it another shot. The result was a scrappy little bush with more ‘sparse’ than actual leaves – but we love it, and it’s been a big hit with the neighborhood dogs.

Community Lodgings, a local non-profit, offered to have the neighborhood kids who attend their after school program make decorations, and folks from the city were standing by to attend the big lighting ceremony. But in the spirit of grinchiness, we discovered there was no way to light the tree without a host of further permissions.

To everyone’s credit, there were valiant attempts. Our friends in Del Ray, who invented DIY, shared how they coordinate with local business owners to do their lightings, but ours is a residential neighborhood. Arlandrian poster Kevin Beekman tested solar lights, which he had strung up at another sadly overlooked park on Reed Avenue, but admitted they really didn’t put off much light. Living across the street from Le Bosquet Park made running an extension cord ill-advised.

There were e-mail exchanges about a lighting fund we were too late for, and a junction box costing an exorbitant amount I may never know (referred to only as “$$$”). And a former council member (who has my vote if he would PLEASE run again) tried unsuccessfully to contact Dominion Power. We even hoped the adopt-a-park funds the Stevens had raised could be used to install an outlet on the lamppost, but the funds too were long forgotten.

Adding to my growing despair, Community Lodgings called to say the kids had made decorations they wanted to hang on the tree, “when would be a good time to have the tree lighting?”

I admitted it wasn’t looking good.

With Christmas a week away, our hopes were whittled down to the flavor of the month: eel-powered Christmas lights.

In the end, I’m sorry to say I gave up.

Which is why, three days before Christmas, I was surprised to see the little tree… bush… at Le Bosquet Park, festively adorned in ornaments - not a sparse spot to be found.

And the decorations were really nice. Pine cones and glittery popsicle-stick stars stars - not the usual construction paper decorations you love because it was your kid who made them. These were different… special.

So, in the real end, I realized it wasn’t my tree to give up on. It had become what it was meant to be – a community tree. Alex, who was there for the planting, led the decorating project at Community Lodgings. Afterwards, the kids went outside to hang them.

No fanfare, just Christmas spirit.

Turns out we didn’t need lights after all.

(But maybe next year.)

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Merry 4MRMarket!!


A farmers' market is all about community and forging relationships with food and craft producers, so whether you miss the fresh and creative products available from the Four Mile Run Farmers' Market or are just looking for something special for the upcoming holidays, remember it's still possible to continue to support your favorite 4MRMarket vendor. 

Many of these producers are still active and busy throughout the year, even with the market being shuttered for the season.  So, check out their links at the www.4MRMarket.org to contact them directly.  

And note, that Stiffler Beef (aka What's for Dinner Now, LLC) are scheduled to make a deliveries this Saturday, December 18th. Orders (for now and for upcoming deliveries next month) can be placed by sending us an email at beef@whatsfordinnernow.com. See: www.whatsfordinnernow.com.

And don't forget to support the artists. MP3's make great (virtual) stocking-stuffers. (Hear more of Aaron Lee at The Ukulele Project).

Enjoy the holidays!

Saturday, October 30, 2010

4MRMarket Report: The Finish Line

Whether headed home from a rally, on your way to watch a marathon, enjoying some last minute campaigning before Tuesday, or just getting the last minute items for Halloween, the Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market is a convenient stop.

October 31st, Halloween, marks the end of our first season.  So now's your chance to check it out before the long winter hiatus.  4MRMarket will be back in April bigger and better with a lot more exciting surprises in store.

But this week, check out the folks from VeloCity and get your bike tuned up.  Visit with Zelda's Nova Soul, just back from a taping of the Oprah Show (well, from the audience) and on their way to an on-camera appearance on WUSA Channel 9 (Tuesday at noon).  Catch the prepared foods from our newest vendor, Harvest Market and check-in with rest of our regular vendors.


But rest assured, it's not the end. It's just the beginning.

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The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors. It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.

4MRMarket is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria.
Or contact us at: 4mrm@arlandria.org

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Architects Anonymous win for Four Mile Run Park Designs

Architects Anonymous at AIA Northern Virgina Annual Dinner 
(photo by Kathryn A. Brown)
The Northern Virginia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects awarded a group of local architects for  their pro-bono work on the plans to expand Four Mile Run Park and rehab the old Duron paint store on Mt Vernon Avenue in Arlandria.

AIA Chapter Award
Discussed in more detail previously on the Arlandrian, the informal group of small-firm architects, referring to themselves collectively as Architects Anonymous, used some of their 'free' time develop this breathtaking vision for 4MR Park.

The architects envision inexpensively re-purposing the old Duron building at 4109 Mount Vernon Avenue into the focal point of a series of 'outdoor rooms' for community use. The building itself would be open-air and primarily for daytime, fair weather use unless significant funds become available in the future (the costly HVAC system needs replacement for indoor uses). Their vision, based on the 4MR Restoration Master Plan, has impressed and excited area residents and the award from their peers comes as no surprise.

The presentation of the plans have often been on view Sunday mornings at 4MRMarket and will be there again for the last two Sundays, when representatives of Architect Anonymous will be on hand to solicit support for volunteers to help realize their award-winning vision. Come on out and see the plans, congratulate them and offer our thanks!

Architects Anonymous Unveiled (plus one).
Photo by Kathryn A. Brown

Monday, October 18, 2010

4MRMarket Report: "October 24th Harvest Party" Edition


Next Sunday morning, October 24th, from 8am to 1pm, the Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market plays host to the 4MR Harvest Market with FREE eco-friendly, re-usable trick-or-treat bags for the first 30 kids in costume!

The 4MR Harvest Market will feature live performances and vendors (some even in costume) with cider (while supplies last) and the usual fresh seasonal vegetables, meat, prepared foods and crafts.

A special treat will be a fresh re-telling of a familiar story: Hansel and Gretel is about a lot more than a Gingerbread House.

Join us at 4MRMarket on Sunday, Oct 24th as award winning actress, Gale Nemec performs this classic Fairy Tale by the Brothers Grimm. Three shows: 9:00am, 10:30am and at noon.

(Donations are welcome. A portion of the proceeds will go to support the efforts of the Entertainment and Education Foundation and “The Bea & The Bug Extravaganza for Children!”)

Anyone on hand at the close of the market is invited to walk, ride or run down with us to the 14th Annual Del Ray Halloween Parade starting at 2pm.

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The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors. It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.

4MRMarket is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria.
Or contact us at: 4mrm@arlandria.org

Saturday, October 16, 2010

4MRMarket Report: "More Than Just a Novelty" Edition


When we began planning the 4MRMarket back in May with the hope of opening in little more than a month, we had no idea whether we'd make back the money we invested, let alone make it through the season.  Now, as we wind down this year's market in the final few weeks, we are happy with what we've accomplished, but eager to build and grow and provide more opportunities fulfill our mission statement:
"bring fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors, as part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood".
Next week, October 24th, our penultimate market of the season, will be the 4MRMarket Harvest Party complete with music games and live performances.  Stay tuned for details shortly.

This week, the Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market still always has plenty to offer folks, whether they walk, drive or come on a bicycle, but this week we spotlight the many folks who come to market using our great system of nearby trails and bike lanes. VéloCity returns to the 4MRMarket this Sunday with their mobile bike repair shop.

Biking in with VéloCity, entertainer Aaron Lee will be providing music in the market lounge.  Aaron is a ukulele songwriter on a all-bicycle-powered concert tour. About a month ago he played at VéloCity in Old Town, and he will be back in the area tomorrow (Sunday, Oct. 17) at 4MRMarket. One goal of his tour is to promote local community organizations, like the Four Mile Run Market and bike co-op.

This 4MRide event is again another oppurtunity to educate citizens in understanding the importance of sharing the road responsibly and with respect and encouraging folks to try out our amazing park trails. So get on your bike and come on out.


_______________

The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors. It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.

4MRMarket is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria.

For more info see: http://www.4mrmarket.org/

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Arlandrian News Round-up: Getting Along With the Neighbors

Bridging the Run
Alexandria and Arlington joined forces yesterday to discuss a full docket (7MB PDF) of key issues affecting both sides of the border.  Key items for Arlandria include the Four Mile Run (4MR) restoration and  transportation and development Route 1 corridor (more on that here). We had an Arlandrian editor on the scene and will have follow up in an upcoming post (Alexandria Times has the pre-meeting basics, Washington Post has more back story, AlexandriaNews.org has some coverage).

BRAC in Business?
A Future Crystal City? (From ArlNow.com)
The re-envisioning of Crystal City received a unanimous stamp of approval from the Arlington County Board. The plan calls for additional density, transportation infrastructure, and turning Crystal City into a full time city and not just a urban office park by day, ghost town by night. With Defense Department jobs being moved to Ft. Belvoir and elsewhere as part of BRAC, Arlington is taking the opportunity to try and re-build Crystal City for the future. (Washington Post)

Streetcars, New Metro Entrance Among Big Changes Coming to Crystal City
Here's a quick list of transportation improvements involved in the Crystal City 2050 plan and a video walking you through some of the high level stuff. (ArlNow)

Greening NoVA
The Northern Virginia Conservation Trust held its annual fundraiser this week.  The Trust aims to link the green space across N.Va.  Right in our backyard, Four Mile Run Park is a key portion of Alexandria's "Green Crescent", an area of open space that runs from 4MR Park along the Potomac to Jones Point Park.  Alexandria partners with the Trust and aims to have 100 acres preserved by 2013. (Washington Post)

Transit Improvements
If approved, all aspects of the Blue and Orange lines will receive a $272 Million overhaul that will last 6 years.  The overhaul covers 23 stations and 27 miles of track in operation since 1977. (Dr. Gridlock, Washington Post)  Somehow, Braddock Rd station is not in queue for repairs despite conditions that sent Mayor Euille to the hospital after a bad fall. (Alexandria Times)

Arlandria's Treasure
How much do you know about The Birchmere: America’s Legendary Music Hall? It harbored such new talent as Lyle Lovett, the Seldom Scene, Vince Gill, and many more. "New?" you might ask... they were at the time.  Read about Arlandria's own cradle for new talent, and legacy of proprietor of 44 years, Gary Oelze. What's his biggest frustration? Well, you may want to lobby City Council to find a way to get rid of Alexandria's entertainment tax, which could yet drive the cherished institution away from our fair neighborhood. (Alexandria Gazette-Packet)

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

The Arlandria Shindig: Hello and Goodbye

Join neighbors from around the Four Mile Run neighborhoods Thursday night at 7pm at the No. 9 Lounge at Evening Star, 2000 Mt Vernon Avenue.

This inaugural get-together, what we hope will be a semi-regular occurrence in the future, will also mark a bittersweet occasion.  It will be a chance to see off neighborhood hero and all around good guy, Nick Partee, as he embarks on a hiatus from Arlandria for the next few years.

Nick has been the driving force behind so much of what we've done in the last few years that we hope to give him a good send off.  We hope to see you there.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Why plan a park?

Earlier today, Nick Partee posted about the park planning meeting this evening at 7pm. The discussions about this parcel have been going on for quite a while, with presentations about it at the Four Mile Run Farmer's Market every week.  But several months ago, Nick has done a great write up available here.

But how did this happen?  Where are the funds coming from in today's tough budget cycles?  The answer is that there really is no money for this.  The City used open space funds to acquire the property a few years back and tear down some of the old buildings,  When the budget crunches came on, they were about to give up and tear down the last remaining building when the group of architects stepped in and donated their time to come up with a plan to do something temporary with donated time and materials and with the funds that had been slated for the demolition.  
A group of volunteers have done some clean-ups and renovations on the site already and anticipate providing a lot of the labor for any future work, just as we have at another new park property at Reed Avenue (see this earlier article about that).... which at this point the City isn't even mowing or tending to the dead trees (Nick personally took down a dozen with a HAND saw).  In this latter case, all of the plant materials were gleaned from back yard cast-offs in Beverly Hills, Del Ray and Arlandria; in other words, pulled from the trash. The mulch on site comes from ground up dead trees. The only money spent was on rental equipment (unless you count the repairs that Jim Russell had to make on his transmission that he wreaked pulling up fence posts).

The budget for the Four Mile Run Park expansion (the subject of tonight's meeting) is maybe about $200 at this point.  That's what a group of middle school kids raised this summer for the project at a car wash.  

But we're swimming in mulch and litter.  We really need help caring for the gardens, tree lawns and street trees that the City has never tended to, even in the boom years (here's what we tried to do with that).  And there's no end to the litter and trash that people keep dumping in our parks.  We've had a half dozen clean-ups this year alone and we could still keep doing it. 

And most of all we need advocates. After the middle school kids came out for a clean up this summer, I put the question to them: "how do we fix this so we don't have to keep coming out and cleaning up after other people?" Their answers were telling. What are yours?

Discuss Path Forward for 4 Mile Run Park Expansion Sites

The City of Alexandria is holding a meeting tonight at 7 PM at Cora Kelly Rec Center (map).  The topic is the path forward for the 4MR Park expansion. The meeting will concern what to do with the outdoor space used for the 4 Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market, and the additional space between the market and the Run.

You may recall Architects Anonymous came up with a very promising plan for these parcels of land that were the inspiration for the Market and for saving the old Duron building for community use.  The community use building is set to begin construction, and now the community has a say in how to create a dynamic outdoor space that acts as a gateway to the City.

Here's the City's release and agenda for tonight. We hope to see you there!

Four Mile Run/Mount Vernon Avenue Park and Open Space Planning
Monday, September 20 Community Meeting
The meeting will be held 25 West Reed Avenue at the Cora Kelly Recreation Center and beginning promptly at 7:00 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to explore the open space properties, located at 4109-4125 Mount Vernon Avenue prior to the meeting. Please let neighbors and colleagues who are unable to attend the meeting know that additional comments are encouraged and can be submitted via email or hard copy to Laura Durham (see contact information below).

Agenda:
  • Welcome and introductions (5 minutes)
  • Overview of site and park planning process (5 minutes)
  • Community involvement and investment (5 minutes)
  • Update on Farmer’s Market use of the site (10 minutes)
  • Review of AA Concept Plan for the Duron building and four parcels (10minutes)
  • Identifying community-serving park elements
  • Attendees feedback/suggestions (45 minutes)
  • Questions and next steps (10 minutes)

Please send written comments to Laura Durham at laura.durham@alexandriava.gov or via post to 1108 Jefferson Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Friday, September 17, 2010

4MRMarket Report: Pedal Powered Edition


The Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market always has plenty to offer folks, whether they walk, drive or come on a bicycle, but this week we spotlight the many folks who come to market using our great system of nearby trails and bike lanes. VéloCity returns to the 4MRMarket this Sunday with their mobile bike repair shop. But in addition, this week, they will be joined by the Alexandria Police Department.

Officers will be at the market from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. They will be offering information on registering a bicycle and providing bicycle safety tips along with the bike maintenance and tune ups that have become a regular feature at the market.

Registering a bicycle makes it much easier to track in the event the bicycle is lost or stolen and is among one of the several best biking practices we like to promote at 4MRMarket. Additionally, officers would like to educate cyclists and pedestrians about traffic laws.

This 4MRide event concludes Virginia Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Week, a DRIVE SMART Virginia and Bike Walk Virginia initiative with approximately 160 companies and organization partners statewide. A key goal of Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Week is to educate citizens in understanding the importance of sharing the road responsibly and with respect.

So get on your bike and come on out.


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The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors. It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.

4MRMarket is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria.

For more info see: http://www.4mrmarket.org/


Tuesday, September 07, 2010

Renovating the Calvert

View of Renovated Calvert Tower with Low-rise addition along Mt Vernon Avenue
The signs have been up for a while now and not much has changed since we first talked about the concept plans over a year ago. Over the course of many months and several area meetings (reported here and here), UDR, the owner of the Calvert on Mt Vernon Avenue has fleshed out its plans for a major renovation of the aging building.

As Item #7 on the docket tonight for review by the Planning Commission at their September 7th meeting, the City staff report shows that UDR plans to reface the existing tower and replace the front parking lot and retaining wall with a mid-rise (4 story), street-fronting apartment building. The project is designed to maintain (and even expand) the rental housing opportunities in the area while bringing added vibrancy to the Avenue business districts.
The new construction will incorporate the existing ground-floor retail but move it adjacent to Mt Vernon Avenue. Some of the retail space will surround a central art or water feature in an open air plaza at the intersection of the T-shaped building as shown in the first graphic in this post. Most of the parking would be placed underground with some above-ground parking on the north side of the property, just as it is now. The current south parking lot would be replaced with green space adjoining Warwick Village and Goat Hill Park.


Build-out will take many months but it looks extremely promising. The renovation will revitalize an aging building, strengthen existing retail, and suggests that the Calvert will evolve along Complete Street principles.

Conceptual View of Streetscape at Renovated Calvert
Planning Commission meets at 7:30 pm tonight, but comments can also be sent via the City's website.

Saturday, September 04, 2010

4MRMarket Report: Busy as a Bicycling Bee Edition

Bee on a Bike in a Race by EHPlesser
As the Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market enters into its 3rd month of operation, the one thing we've learned to expect is that each market day will be full of surprises.

Starting tomorrow, Sunday September 5th, the new surprise addition to 4MRMarket will be VéloCity. A bicycling cooperative established earlier this year in Old Town, VéloCity's mission is "to encourage a vibrant and inclusive cycling community by providing a non-profit, volunteer operated, do-it-yourself workshop for building and maintaining bicycles along with training, rides, and events to empower interaction, skills, fun, and freedom." VéloCity will be on hand with bike stands and tools to empower riders with DIY bike repairs on a bi-weekly basis, showing off 4MR Park as the hive of bicycling activity it is.

Two weeks ago we were surprised to learn that the Four Mile Run is home to very productive honey bees. Nearby backyard aviaries produce honey at almost 10 times the state average. Last week some of that honey found its way into the deliciously artisanal chocolates produced by Krishon Chocolates and sold at 4MRMarket just 1000 feet from the hives it came from. What won't surprise us is if some of the blue-ribbon-award-winning 4MR honey shows up in other market products soon.

Zelda's NOVA Soul continues to churn out new and interesting salad creations that sell out too quickly for some (well, me). And MT's Pastries continues to invent new recipes, now with a complete line of gluten and sugar free confections to compliment the world's best brownie and bread pudding muffin. (All best enjoyed with St Elmo's coffee in the Market Lounge).

The farm fresh beef from Stiffler Farm has garnered rave reviews with market goers heralding the great cuts of meat they produce. Northern Lights Seafood has been known to bring folks across town for their salmon. And Pleitez and Shlagel Farms bring the best produce around. Here's what a customer wrote about last Sunday's market after having unsuccessfully trying to get there for weeks,
"I loved the market. The tomatoes I bought were the best tomatoes I have had for about 10 years. They were absolutely delicious. Everything else was good as well."
Elsewhere, the reviews are coming in on services like Yelp.

Starting a new enterprise is daunting (especially one funded out of pocket with no hope of anything above 0% return), but the support has been overwhelming...and much appreciated.

There are still hopes to grow...and room to make it happen. Stayed tuned. 4MRMarket has wings. More surprises to come!


____________________________

The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors.  It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.



4MRMarket is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria 22305



For more info see: http://www.4mrmarket.org/

Sunday, August 08, 2010

4MRMarket Report: After the Storm Edition

We've dried off, cleaned up and powered on, so the Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market is open again today (Sunday) at 8am.  Today Jeremy Fiori will be performing in the Market Lounge this week and the ANHSI (Alexandria Neighborhood Health Services), the providers behind the Arlandria Health Center, will be set up in the Community Tent to educate and inform about their programs and services.

ANHSI is also piloting a project this week, with the help of a government grant, to provide farm market vouchers to their patients -- an effort to make fresh farm products available to low income neighbors. In the near future, 4MRMarket hopes to build on this by making EBT (electronic benefits transfer, aka food stamps) available at the market as well.

The usual complement of vendors will be on hand again today (the full list is here).  Come on down and enjoy Four Mile Run Park.  It's a beautiful day.

_______________________


The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors.  It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.


The Market is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria 22305


For more info see: http://www.arlandria.org/p/4mr-market.html

Tuesday, August 03, 2010

Tonight is National Night Out



Not that you aren't familiar with many of your neighbors already, but no doubt there are those you've never met and some new additions to your neighborhood. National Night out is tonight (click here for history and details on the event as a whole). Come socialize with old and new neighbors, meet Alexandria's finest, and enjoy free food, drinks, and games (activities vary by location). Getting to know your neighbors and the police force fosters safer, more interconnected communities.

Here is Alexandria Police's official news release on NNO:

Alexandria Celebrates National Night Out

On Tuesday, August 3, from 5:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M., City officials will partner with Alexandria Police to celebrate National Night Out. The special celebration is part of a nationwide crime and drug prevention effort sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW).

To heighten awareness of crime prevention, residents in more than 25 Alexandria neighborhoods will turn on their porch lights, host neighborhood cook-outs and sponsor block parties in support of National Night Out. Mayor William D. Euille, members of City Council and Chief of Police Earl Cook will reaffirm the City’s commitment to fighting crime by visiting residents throughout the City. Chief Cook will be attending the National Night Out events at various locations throughout the City.

McGruff the Crime Fighting Dog, the K-9 Unit, Bike Patrol Unit and Motor Unit will tour neighborhoods and offer special demonstrations.

“National Night Out is an opportunity to celebrate the neighborhood spirit and strengthen our relationship with the community,” says Acting Chief Cook. “Our residents continue to support our department in reducing serious crime and in keeping Alexandria a safe place to live. National Night Out provides us with the opportunity to thank residents for their vigilance and their dedication to the City.”
Several of those 25 neighborhoods are in the North End of Alexandria. Here are details for a few North End neighborhood National Night Out events:
  • Lynhaven: 6:30 - 8:00 - Block party at the Lynhaven Rock Park. Raffle, games, food, and entertainment. 
  • Hume Springs: 6:30 - 8ish - Block party at the Flagpole Park at Edison and Dale St. Pizza and refreshments served and prizes raffled off. Show up at 6:30 to see APD Motors and the command bus (will be there for 1/2 hour).
  • Lennox Place at Sunnyside: 6:30 – 9:00pm - Cookout at Courtland Circle. From their flyer: "Courtland Circle is a busy place every National Night Out. Come out, meet your neighbors, enjoy the food and help us all welcome and support Alexandria City Police Department’s finest."

Sunday, August 01, 2010

4MRMarket Report: Lounge Edition

Now in its 7th week, the Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market opened today with several new craft vendors, live music, a newly created kids play area and, for the whole family,  the newly opened Market Lounge.

Vendors at the market now include produce from Pleitez Farms and Shlagel Farms, Northern Lights Seafood, salads from Zelda's Nova Soul, teas from Pearl's Fine Teas and Alexandria Tea and Spice Exchange, fresh baked goods from Vera's Bakery, Bread and Chocolate, Marcela's Bakery and MT Pastries and original confections from Krishon Chocolates. Crafters from UncommonKnits and local artisans round out the market along with St Elmo's Coffee Pub. (Stiffler Farms Beef has the week off but will be back in the near future).


A newly created Market Lounge has been set up for folks to enjoy the beautiful weather at Four Mile Run Park while indulging in breakfast, brunch or lunch and good conversation and live music nearby.




And thanks to folks from the Alexandria Arts Commission, the marketplace at the park now hosts a kids play area freshly painted over the past two weekends.


____________________________


The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market (Alexandria, Virginia 22305) brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors.  It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run park and the surrounding neighborhood.


The Market is open every Sunday from 8am until 1pm from April through October in Four Mile Run Park at 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue, Alexandria 22305


For more info see: http://www.arlandria.org/p/4mr-market.html

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Poorly Stated, And Called Out For It

This past week, AlexandriaNews.org published an article about a longstanding, successful French Restaurant,Chez Andrée, located at the edge of the Lynhaven neighborhood in Arlandria. Were it not for one line in the article, it would be a good read on one of Alexandria's most tenured restaurants. That one off-hand comment, however, managed to throw our neighborhood under the bus.

The opening paragraph likely left a bad taste in the mouths of most Arlandria residents and it soured the rest of the piece:
The corner of Commonwealth Avenue and East Glebe Road is not the place one would expect to find a French restaurant. That’s where, in spite of a neighborhood that has never quite transitioned, Chez Andrée has stood for 46 years, serving dedicated customers and working to attract new business.
Such off-hand comments sting especially sharply where people have dedicated countless hours working to improve their neighborhoods and the sense of community within them. Fortunately, while a few of us traded incredulous quips over e-mail amongst ourselves, Lynhaven Civic Association president Joe Bondi shot back a letter to the editor and defended the Lynhaven neighborhood.  It's very worth reading the whole response here, but let me provide you a little preview:
Let me tell you about transitions in Lynhaven, the neighborhood on the north end of Alexandria that is the proud home of Chez Andree. There was a time our neighborhood was the place to come for drugs and prostitution. That day is all but over. Working with the city and the police, the neighbors of Lynhaven came out of their homes and made a statement that crime wasn’t welcome here. They made this neighborhood the kind of place I sought out to live seven years ago.
The story he tells could be repeated for any of the neighborhoods of Arlandria. Dedicated residents and Community Oriented Policing have driven crime numbers to near historic lows. While problem pockets still exist, to issue summary judgement on the neighborhood based on... well, we're really not sure where the "Low Blow" (as Joe called it in his rebuttal) came from.

AlexandriaNews.org periodically covers goings-on in Arlandria, so I would think they would be more attuned to the history and progress made toward making these neighborhoods a great place to call home. Over the 46 years Chez Andrée has called Lynhaven home, there have been many transitional periods, so I join Joe in wondering, "exactly what kind of transition was Ms. Branch expecting?"

Thursday, July 22, 2010

MAdA Teaches Local Hispanic Mothers Entrepreneurial Skills

Mujeres Artesanas de Alexandria (MAdA) is a sub-organization of local non-profit Bienvenidos.  They teach Latina women of Arlandria business, crafting, and English language skills.  The majority of the women in the program are mothers of children in local schools and need to generate extra income to help support their families. 

One of the volunteers and founders of MAdA, Beth Ladd, dropped by last Sunday's Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market to give me an overview of MAdA's purpose and what they hope to achieve in Arlandria for their member "Mujeres".  She also provided a few samples of their handicrafts (see pictures--above right and following video).  Check out the quick 1 minute video below and see what Beth has to say about the organization.



The 4 Mile Run Farmer's and Artisans Market has always included providing a place for local vendors to cheaply sell their wares as part of its mission statement. With the addition of MAdA, the Market's 15th vendor, it appears to be meeting at least one key portion of its mission. Come out and support the artisans and craftswomen of MAdA starting at the July 25th market (8am - 1pm).


Friday, June 25, 2010

4MR Market Continues this Sunday

The grand opening of the Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisan’s Market was like every other Farmer’s and Artisans market in that fresh produce ruled the day, and specialty foods created instant fans. But for so many, it was the culmination of months of collaboration and reason for celebration.

“I’m really impressed with the turnout,” said Councilman Rob Krupicka, on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony, and was the driving force behind the recent legislation to make healthy food more accessible in Alexandria. "This is a great example of what happens when the community comes together and works on a joint project. This market is the result of vision and volunteers. Nothing else. Its a sure sign of a strong community when it can pull together to create something like this. The new market will make the community stronger and will give all of us greater access to local food and some great arts and crafts."

Vendors were still signing up as the ribbon was being cut. Eyvy Alvarado, market manager from nearby Marcella’s Bakery, filled out the forms, set up her stand, and within two hours, sold out of her first batch of baked goods. As did her neighbor Elise Scott of Pearl Fine Teas, who had the good fortune of being the only vendor with iced cold tea on a day when temperatures quickly soared above 90 degrees.

Cory Schultz would stop at nothing for fresh radishes. The Army Reserve officer rode her bike from Arlington after reading about the market online. “It’s really easy to get to on the trails,” Schultz said, sampling one of the coveted radishes. “I will definitely incorporate a stop here into my Sunday morning rides.”

Nearby neighbors from Arlandria, Crystal City, Shirlington, Del Ray and Beverley Hills walked, jogged and drove to check out the market, often lingering to enjoy (or, in the case of the area tots, dance to) the music by Curtis Blues.

"Mt. Vernon Avenue’s proximity to everywhere, at the entrance to Four Mile Run Park makes this a perfect location for a farmers market,” said Del Ray Resident and former Councilman Justin Wilson as his son and daughter danced and played backup maracas to Curtis Blues.

Architects Anonymous, the designers of the proposed green rehab and re-purposing of the former paint store at the park expansion, were highlighted at the community table where they displayed their design plans for the site and solicited feedback from passersby for the proposed colors of the future community building.

Across the way, Zelda Wallace of Zelda’s Nova Soul celebrated her own success. Just last year, the former broadcaster with Cox network lost her job of 20 years. With encouragement from her mom, friends and family, she decided to first test out her love of cooking at the Del Ray Market on Saturday, and at the Four Mile Run Market on Sunday. “I always wanted to open a restaurant, but that’s a pretty risky initiative,” Wallace said. “Still, I've always been told people would pay for my salads.” Three hours after the market opened, Zelda’s shrimp salad sold out. Twenty minutes later, so did her cucumber salad. She spent the remaining time taking orders. Many of the vendors did not anticipate such a terrific turnout.

The list of vendors joining up in the next couple of weeks include Vera's Bakery, Krishon Chocolates, St Elmo's Coffee Pub, the Dairy Godmother, and Bread and Chocolate.  The Dairy Godmother will embrace the Latino culture of the neighborhood with plans to sell paletas (Latin American frozen fruit treats) in coming weeks. With the hot weather here to stay, they are sure to be a huge hit.

The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market is open Sundays from 8am until 1pm and runs from April through October at Four Mile Run Park, 4109 Mt Vernon Avenue.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

See the Unveiling

Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market
Grand Opening
Sunday June 20th
8am - 1pm
4109 Mt Vernon Avenue



Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market Comes to Fruition

There’s no need to vegetate any longer this summer.

A floundering economy and budget shortfalls have been no match for the ingenuity of a small group of residents and area business owners. The Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market is celebrating its Grand Opening on Sunday, June 20th. The market is setting up on the site of the stalled Four Mile Run (4MR) park expansion with the surrounding community rallying together to address what was once viewed as the City’s most challenging area.

"This is the first farmers market opening based on the principals of the recently adopted Healthy Food Alexandria Initiative", says Councilman Rob Krupicka. “This is a wonderful initiative by the neighborhoods surrounding Four Mile Run,” added Krupicka, who plans to be on hand to celebrate the opening. “With little more than sweat equity and a common goal, these folks are taking this gateway into Alexandria to a new level. I really hope folks will come down and join us.” Mayor Bill Euille, Vice Mayor Kerry Donley and Councilwoman Del Pepper will also be present for the ribbon cutting.

The market will feature the usual - vegetables, fruits, meats and cheeses - , but also hopes to have an international flair, with tamales and Salvadorian saltenas from local vendors and handmade crafts from local artisans. Curtis Blues, solo blues artist of the year and frequent busker at the Torpedo Factory Arts Center in Old Town, will also be performing on opening day.

The market will be located at the entrance to Four Mile Run Park, part of a long overlooked and underutilized gateway from Arlington, where, every day, walkers stroll up the park and bikers whiz down the Four Mile Run Trail that connects to Crystal City, DC, Shirlington and the Mount Vernon Trail.

“It’s muy bien,” said Alexandria resident Katherine Perez. “It’s a great way to bring the community together in a healthy way. We usually bike to Shirlington - now maybe folks there will head in our direction.”

If the volunteer group’s current progress is any indication, they will succeed in their mission and vision of bringing fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels, provide an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market, strive to reflect the diversity of the community, and improve the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors. It is part of an overall vision to expand and improve Four Mile Run Park and the surrounding neighborhood.

“With the Market mission statement settled upon, we hope the market will be a solidifying element within the community,” said Arlandria resident and one of the Market Managers, Nick Partee. “We really hope our neighbors will come out to support the local vendors and the community.” Other Market Managers are Travis Hester of Del Ray, whose back-yard farming and community garden advocacy have already made a difference in Alexandria; Kevin Beekman of Arlandria, a long-time proponent of bringing improved quality of life to Arlandrians; and Warwick Village resident Glenn Christianson, who brings years of experience helping manage the Del Ray Farmers Market into the fold.

Beginning June 20th, the Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market will be open from 8am - 1pm on Sundays at 4109 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305.

See: http://www.arlandria.org/p/4mr-market.html

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First year Market goals include getting the market running by end of June with at least 5 vendors, improving and maintaining the expanded 4MR park site, and supporting EBT payment by end of the first market year. This could be a very exciting year for building community within Arlandria.

If you know a local artisan or a farmer in the region, are a farmers or artisan looking for a place to sell your wares, or are an area resident that wants to get involved with the 4MR Farmers and Artisans Market, please contact Travis Hester (travishdc@delrayfarms.org) or Nick Partee (nick.partee@arlandria.org).

One last push to clean-up 4MR Park where the market will be located will take place Saturday, June 19th from 9-11am. Just show up with gloves and a water bottle Saturday at 9am at 4109 Mt Vernon Ave!