Will You “Bea” Mine?
Page 18 Can I Vote?
Page 10 February 2022, Vol. 48, Issue 2 Watergate at Landmark Unit Owners Association Kudos to WAL’s Staff Page 6 Page 2 February 2022 Wheel February 2022 Page 3 Wheel News President ’s Update 04 From the GM ’s Desk 05 Staff News 06 Bubbles, Bubbles 08 Will You Vote? 10 BOD Elections Dates 10 Pro-FIT Information 15 Shuttle Bus Drop -Off 18 February Calendar 19 In This Issue...
Activities Recap 12 Upcoming Activities 14 Yalda Celebration at WAL 16 Author Visits WAL 16 Pet of the Month 18 LOVELY SUNRISE Many residents rave about the sunrise (or sunset) views they often enjoy from their balconies, living areas or bedroom windows. It ’s one of the many perks you just can ’t buy or find everywhere. As the sun greets residents heading out for a morning walk or going to work or school, the beautiful, vibrant colors shine through the trees to create a tranquil and breath -taking start to each day!
Photo: Rashawnda Atkinson Inside the Wheel Phil Schrock President Eileen Greenberg Vice President Alex Davila Director Rudnaldo Hodges Director Robert Lee Director Luke Lopez Director Theresa Mulrane Director Joseph Vecchio Director Gregory Wade Director 6 Wheel is a publication of the Watergate at Landmark Unit Owners Association February 2022Vol. 48, Issue 2 Published 11 times annually For publication consideration, please submit original content (e.g. articles, photos ) to [email protected] . High -quality photos are recommended (300 dpi or greater). Management makes content decisions and it is understood that revisions and edits will be made for space and publication style.
Publication is not guaranteed.
DISCLAIMER : The Wheel does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility
nderstood that revisions and edits will be made for space and publication style.
Publication is not guaranteed.
DISCLAIMER : The Wheel does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for any information, product or service represented within our magazine.
Anyone using the information provided by The Wheel whether medical, legal, business or other, does so at their own risk and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Wheel from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use.
WATERGATE AT LANDMARK 2021 - 2022 Board of Directors 2021 - 2022 Board Officers Susan Bouldin, Treasurer Vivian Moran, Secretary Don’t miss out! Connect with Watergate at Landmark online: Like Us on Facebook Follow Us on Twitter 14 18 KEY WATERGATE AT LANDMARK CONTACTS Shuttle Bus Updates : Text “watergate ” to: 844 -612-2165 Resident Services Office : 703-370-7000 FirstService Residential : 703-385-1133 Activities Office : 703-370-7092 Metro Water : 703 -461-3418 Gate Communications *: 703 -370-2674 *You may call this number for after-hours emergencies.
Lobby Entrance Camera Comcast - 971 Master Antenna - 3 WAL CCTV Channels Comcast - 970 Master Antenna - 8 Visit Our Website Page 4 February 2022 Wheel Greetings as we begin the 2022 New Year. We sure got off to a wintery start – two “Snow Days ” within the first week of the year! Kids loved it; adults not so much with removing snow and ice from their cars. Take heart, though.
Spring is just around the corner!
Last month we welcomed Watergate ’s new Human Resource Director, Ms. Robyn Cooks. Watergate is fortunate to welcome this experienced individual to our management team. Welcome aboard!
45th Annual Meeting and Elections
med Watergate ’s new Human Resource Director, Ms. Robyn Cooks. Watergate is fortunate to welcome this experienced individual to our management team. Welcome aboard!
45th Annual Meeting and Elections Watergate is well underway with its annual ritual – our Annual Meeting and the election of members of the Board of Directors. WAL ’s dedicated Election Committee has been working diligently for well over six months to make this year ’s Voting Guidelines as clear as possible. The Committee also tackled the challenge of making online (electronic) voting possible this year – a long sought -after Watergate goal! That goal becomes a reality this year for those wishing to vote electronically. Those who still prefer to vote by paper ballot, as has been customary over the past decades, can still do so.
Voting will begin in early February when unit owners receive their election packet by mail. This year, unit owners will elect three resident owners to the Board. Unit owners will be able to vote for up to, but no more than, three candidates. The three candidates with the most votes will be elected to three -year terms.
When you receive your packet, please carefully read the instructions as well as the enclosed candidate biographies and campaign statements. Write -in votes are not allowed and will invalidate your ballot. Our bylaws require a quorum of 25% of all unit owners in order to hold the Annual Meeting and election of Board members. Therefore, it ’s imperative to have a quorum, because if a quorum were not met the Association would be required to conduct a second, expensive and delayed election.
Board members are your governing representatives. The Board ’s decisions deeply impact the lives of all owners and residents. The Board of Directors adopts your annual
expensive and delayed election.
Board members are your governing representatives. The Board ’s decisions deeply impact the lives of all owners and residents. The Board of Directors adopts your annual budget, sets condominium assessments, approves Association expenditures, approves critical infrastructure projects, awards contracts and enacts the rules and regulations that govern daily life at WAL, all of which affect quality of life and property values.
I’m confident all the Board candidates and their supporters will conduct their campaigns in a professional manner.
Your current Board and the Board candidates on this year’s ballot are committed to serving our owners and residents. We all want Watergate to continue being the envy of Northern Virginia community living!
So please be sure to vote! Mail in your “proxy ” ballot or drop it in the ballot boxes or at the Resident Services Desk as soon as possible. Or vote electronically. Or vote in person at the Annual Meeting on Monday, March 7. PRESIDENT ’S UPDATE By Phil Schrock, Board President “ Our bylaws require a quorum of 25% of all unit owners in order to hold the Annual Meeting and election of Board members.
” Resident Services and Management Offices ............................... Normal Hours Activities Office ................................ Reopens Tuesday Library ................................ .................... Normal Hours Fitness Center ................................ .... 4 a.m. – midnight Indoor Pool ................................ ........ 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Racquet Club ................................ ....... 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Shuttle Bus ................................ .............. Normal Hours PRESIDENTS DAY HOURS OF OPERATION Monday, February 21, 2022
lub ................................ ....... 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Shuttle Bus ................................ .............. Normal Hours PRESIDENTS DAY HOURS OF OPERATION Monday, February 21, 2022 The snowstorm transformed WAL into a winter wonderland!
Photo: Suman Nayyar February 2022 Page 5 Wheel I want to thank the Board of Directors for this wonderful opportunity to serve the Watergate at Landmark community. When my family and I visited the Watergate in preparation for my interview, we knew this was a special place and the right fit. The Watergate is truly resort -style living.
I have spent most of my life in Northern Virginia. I attended South Lakes High School in Reston, where I played football and wrestled, as well as George Mason University in Fairfax. I served in the United States Air Force with assignments in Colorado and South Dakota. I enjoy traveling overseas with my family, visiting vineyards and watching football.
I have managed luxury apartment and condominium communities for over 20 years, including complex condominium conversions. I enjoy analyzing, prioritizing, and evaluating contracts and services, and managing capital projects. I served as Board President and Secretary of the Homeowners ’ Association where I lived.
Collaboration with team volunteers, neighbors and colleagues is one of the enjoyable facets of my profession, as it keeps things fresh and allows for the continual exchange of ideas and information. I have a lifetime of working with others to accomplish goals, including sports, military and school. My primary focus is customer service and ensuring the community looks its best.
Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your community and I look forward to meeting you. Please feel free to contact me at
y focus is customer service and ensuring the community looks its best.
Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your community and I look forward to meeting you. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] . Have a blessed New Year! GREETINGS , WAL R ESIDENTS By Greg Gardner, General Manager Our General Manager at this season ’s Employee Holiday Party.
Photo: Rashawnda Daniels -Atkinson Page 6 February 2022 Wheel There have been a few changes here at WAL, and your management team wants to share these updates.
A Note of Thanks Over the holidays, the WAL community showered staff with so many gifts of appreciation. Thank you so much to the many residents who brought down special gifts for the holidays. We ’d also like to recognize the former Watergate Lions Club for sponsoring our Employee Holiday Party meal, the Tai Chi club for catering lunch for us and the group of resident volunteers who created beautiful gift wrapping décor for the holiday season.
Kudos To Our Staff!
The Board of Directors and WAL Management are pleased to announce the 2021 Employee Awards and Length of Service award recipients: Employees of the Year (EOY) Watergate at Landmark EOY : Shalayah Nesbitt, Maintenance Coordinator Management EOY: Rashawnda Daniels -Atkinson, Communications Manager Environmental Services EOY: Moises Rodriguez, Environmental Services Floor Person Patrol Services EOY: Alexander Frisby, Officer Resident Services EOY : Patricia Hearne, Resident Services Representative Rising Stars : Ernestina Awisi, Environmental Services and Soriya Walker, Patrol Services Length of Service Awards WAL Service Award - 30+ Years: Coby Addo - 39 years; Ron Gibson - 37 years; B.J. Motley - 36 years and Regina Robertson - 32 years WAL Service Award - 30 Years:
atrol Services Length of Service Awards WAL Service Award - 30+ Years: Coby Addo - 39 years; Ron Gibson - 37 years; B.J. Motley - 36 years and Regina Robertson - 32 years WAL Service Award - 30 Years: Alpha Jalloh and Javier Oritz WAL Service Award - 20 Years: Maria Cruz WAL Service Award - 15 Years: Ana Bonilla WAL Service Award - 10 Years: Margaret Nestor and Kat Robinson WAL Service Award - Five Years: Bryan Fingers and Patricia Hearne WAL Service Award - Three Years: Rashawnda Daniels -Atkinson, Mohamed Nabi Kamara, Moises Rodriguez and Corporal Quarm Welcome Aboard, Robyn Robyn Cooks is WAL ’s new Human Resources Director, and she comes to us after serving 21 years in the human resources department for a retirement community.
“What drew me here [WAL] was Greg and Jene ’s willingness to listen, be open to change and adapt, ” Robyn mentioned.
The Alexandria native began her tenure here on December 20, replacing Marlene Lane, who retired after 10 years of service to Watergate at Landmark last year.
Robyn values her role as a supporter and educator for the Association ’s staff. She also recognizes the impact that the pandemic has on what she does each day.
“You know, the pandemic changed everything. It ’s changed how people do work and relate to their work, ” she commented, “and that requires adjustments to meet the staff and community needs as they evolve, ” Robyn said.
Please give a Watergate welcome to our new HR Director!
Congratulations Are In Order After earning her CMCA certification, Brittney Copeland accepted a position as an Onsite Manager at a condominium association in Northern Virginia.
She previously served as WAL ’s Administrative Director and Executive Assistant to the Board.
“I’ve had so many experiences and teachable moments that
a condominium association in Northern Virginia.
She previously served as WAL ’s Administrative Director and Executive Assistant to the Board.
“I’ve had so many experiences and teachable moments that sharpened my professional acumen. I ’ll miss the residents and people I worked with, ” Brittney remarked after the surprise celebration organized by Board members and staff.
Thank you Brittney for a job well done! Once a candidate has been selected, an announcement will be made. STAFF UPDATES AT WAL By WAL Management Photo: Brittney Copeland WAL’s New HR Director Photo: Robyn Cooks Employee of the Year Photo: Shalayah Nesbitt February 2022 Page 7 Wheel Created by Rashawnda Daniels -Atkinson Page 8 February 2022 Wheel “Bubbles, bubbles on my nose.
Bubbles, bubbles on my toes.
Bubbles, bubbles in my hair.
Bubbles, bubbles everywhere! ” ~Sesame Street Beginnings The story based on the popular children ’s TV series has been a reality for some residents, but it ’s not due to enjoying a relaxing evening bath after a long day. In this case, it’s because of a seemingly harmless, yet costly habit — using too much laundry detergent while washing clothes.
What ’s the Big Deal?
In-unit washer and dryer capabilities are a convenient feature our community offers. However, there has been an increasing problem of flooding due to the excessive use of laundry detergent. Tide, a leading laundry detergent brand, warns that excess detergent builds up in laundry machines over time , which impacts efficiency and reduces the washer’s cleaning ability. The company also states that this practice increases the number of suds and wastewater of up to 10 lbs. In our community, this excess water and suds then flows into other areas of the unit or into an adjoining one.
tes that this practice increases the number of suds and wastewater of up to 10 lbs. In our community, this excess water and suds then flows into other areas of the unit or into an adjoining one.
Simply put, you just don ’t need that much detergent to wash your clothes anymore.
How much should I use?
Always consult the manual that accompanied your machine for the best advice. However, if you don ’t have it handy or it didn ’t convey with your unit, home warranty company American Home Shield suggests you use about a tablespoon of liquid detergent for regular loads. The Spruce also has an online chart with suggestions for those who have a top loading or HE washer.
So, please monitor your usage and encourage your neighbors to do the same. You can save money by reducing washer -related floods and have your detergent last longer! BUBBLES , BUBBLES By Rashawnda Daniels -Atkinson Excessive suds in your unit are caused by using too much laundry detergent.
Photo: Greg Gardner Page 10 February 2022 Wheel Let your voice be heard and vote in our upcoming WAL Board of Directors Elections! Board Members are the Association ’s governing representatives and the decisions they make impact our lives daily. Responsibilities of the Board include: • Adoption of an annual Association budget, unit assessments and a schedule of fees. Board Members must manage stakeholders ’ money in responsible decisions that impact the financial circumstances of unit owners.
• Approval of contracts and capital expenditures that contribute to the maintenance and appearance of the property, improve home values and instill in residents a sense of pride in their community. Board Members must endeavor to limit the inconvenience of major infrastructure
nce and appearance of the property, improve home values and instill in residents a sense of pride in their community. Board Members must endeavor to limit the inconvenience of major infrastructure projects on residents and ensure projects are completed on schedule, at budget and at a high level of quality.
• Proliferation of reasonable rules that promote the safety, health and well -being of residents and the peaceful enjoyment of their homes.
• Finally, Board Members work closely with WAL Management to improve the quality of life for all residents.
The election of Board Members is an expensive and time consuming enterprise. The Annual Meeting will be postponed if quorum is not reached by the evening of March 7.
This may require a new election at a significant additional cost to the Association. Therefore, it is vital that all unit owners fulfill their ownership responsibility and VOTE!
If for some reason you are not ready to vote or do not wish to vote for any of the candidates on the proxy ballot, check Option 2 on the proxy ballot envelope which says, “Vote for quorum purposes only. ” Please, vote early! Helpful instructions for voting will be included in the election materials, and you may vote as soon as you receive them. Election drop boxes will be placed in EACH building lobby for your convenience. Also, included in the information are copies of candidates ’ biographies and campaign statements for you to review.
Frequently Asked Questions What is the business of the Annual Meeting?
The primary business during the Annual Meeting is to elect new Board Members.
What is the Unit Owners Association?
The Association is made up of all owners listed on the deed for that unit. Renters are not Association members.
g the Annual Meeting is to elect new Board Members.
What is the Unit Owners Association?
The Association is made up of all owners listed on the deed for that unit. Renters are not Association members.
How many seats are up for this year ’s election?
This year, unit owners will elect three resident owners to the Watergate at Landmark Board of Directors. The three candidates with the greatest percentage of votes will be elected to three -year terms.
What is Quorum?
For the Association to conduct business, including elections, at least 25% of the total percentage interest, either by proxy or in attendance, must be represented. This is outlined in our governing documents.
How will the votes be counted?
Election results will be tabulated under the guidance of the League of Women Voters. Results will be announced at the end of the Annual Meeting and posted in all buildings.
Can I vote at the Annual Meeting?
When the polls open, for 45 minutes, you will check in with the League of Women Voters in the Town Center.
You must show your ID. You may receive a color -coded ballot depending on your unit model. The color makes it easier for the League of Women Voters to count the votes by model and calculate the percentage of interest.
What if I can ’t attend the Annual Meeting this year?
If you cannot attend, you are encouraged to vote by filling out the Proxy Ballot & Proxy Envelope, then: • Mail the envelope to the League of Women Voters to arrive no later than noon on the day of the Annual Meeting, which is Monday, March 7, 2022.
• Place the envelope in the ballot drop box at Resident Services or in your building ’s lobby no later than noon on Monday, March 7, 2022.
WAL B OARD ELECTIONS By Elections Committee WATERGATE AT LANDMARK 2022 BOARD ELECTIONS KEY DATES
box at Resident Services or in your building ’s lobby no later than noon on Monday, March 7, 2022.
WAL B OARD ELECTIONS By Elections Committee WATERGATE AT LANDMARK 2022 BOARD ELECTIONS KEY DATES Special Joint Committee Meeting Sponsored by Several Committees “Meet the Candidates ” Town Hall E-Voting and Proxy Voting Ends Monday, March 7 • Noon 45th Annual Meeting February 2022 Page 11 Wheel How can I complete a proxy ballot?
• Complete the ballot and put it in your proxy envelope if you want to vote for a candidate(s); • You can have your proxy count for quorum. You don ’t want to vote for any candidate(s) but want to help establish quorum (no ballot); or • Appoint someone to act on your behalf at the meeting.
How does e -voting work?
To vote electronically, be sure the person listed first on the deed of sale has a current, regularly -checked email on file with the Assn. To maintain election integrity, this will be the primary email address that receives instructions on how to vote on the secured WAL voting website. Please, do not delete this email! Once you open the email, please follow these steps: • Click on the link that is provided in your email invitation.
• Your unique personal registration code will prefill. Click ‘Next .’ Confirm the number of your unit(s) that will be counted. If this is incorrect, please send an email to [email protected] .
• To constitute your electronic signature, fill out the information on ‘Register to Vote ’. DO NOT lose the password you established. Click ‘Set Account Information .'
• Read the ballot instructions and choices thoroughly.
ronic signature, fill out the information on ‘Register to Vote ’. DO NOT lose the password you established. Click ‘Set Account Information .'
• Read the ballot instructions and choices thoroughly.
Once your vote is submitted, it is final and cannot be changed . Make your choices on the electronic ballot and click ‘Submit .’
• Select logout and close the browser. How will I know that my e -vote was received?
You will receive a confirmation email with your vote.
Keep this for your records.
Will anyone know for whom I voted?
No. Neither the Board, Management, candidates nor other residents will view your electronic or paper ballot.
What are common mistakes that are made which may invalidate a ballot?
• Common mistakes may happen when filling out your Proxy Ballot Envelope. The envelope is highlighted to help guide in filling this out to avoid errors.
• Printed names of all owners are required and only one signature of an owner is required on the proxy ballot envelope. Don ’t forget to include your Building Number, Unit Number and Unit Type.
• Check off the method you are using to vote.
Please read over the election materials and participate in one or more of the scheduled events. We encourage you to vote early to help us achieve quorum!
[Vote or turn in your proxy at or before the 45 th Annual Meeting on Monday, March 7!] There are many ways to vote in the upcoming Board elections, so encourage as many owners as possible to vote! Graphic: Pixabay Shape Tomorrow, Vote Today! WAYS TO VOTE •Online via WAL’s custom voting website.
•Put your ballot in the marked and secured ballot dropbox located at Resident Services or your building’s lobby starting February 16.
• Mail your ballot using the provided envelope to the League of Women Voters.
lot in the marked and secured ballot dropbox located at Resident Services or your building’s lobby starting February 16.
• Mail your ballot using the provided envelope to the League of Women Voters.
•At the 45th Annual Meeting in the Town Hall during the designated voting period. We need at least 25% of the total percentage interest to obtain quorum.
Created by Rashawnda Daniels -Atkinson Page 14 February 2022 Wheel “BIG GAME” VIEWING PARTY Sunday, February 13 Terrace Lounge • 6 p.m.
Come watch the football game of the year on the big screen in the Terrace Lounge! Be sure to bring your own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the game. Sponsored by the Youth Committee.
CAJUN MARDI GRAS Saturday, February 26 Terrace Lounge • Doors Open: 5:30 p.m. • Tickets: $50 Why go to the French Quarters when you can have a piece of New Orleans right here at WAL? The Social Committee ’s planned an unforgettable party! Enjoy New Orleans cuisine consisting of jambalaya, étouffée, French bread, and King Cake Cupcakes starting at 6 p.m. Following dinner, the Jazz Trotters will perform a 2-hour set. So let the good times roll and don ’t miss this event! To attend, buy your tickets at the Activities Office.
Plan to bring your own beverages. WATERGATE BOOK CLUB Thursday, March 3 Conference Room 2 and Virtual 7:30 p.m.
The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis It's 1913, and on the surface, Laura Lyons couldn't ask for more out of life —her husband ’s prestigious position allows their family of four to live in an apartment within the New York Public Library. But Laura wants more, and when she applies to journalism school, her world is cracked wide open.
As her studies take her all over the city, she becomes drawn to a radical, all -female group in which women are
wants more, and when she applies to journalism school, her world is cracked wide open.
As her studies take her all over the city, she becomes drawn to a radical, all -female group in which women are encouraged to loudly share their opinions on suffrage, birth control and women's rights. Soon, Laura finds herself questioning her traditional roles and is forced to confront her shifting priorities head -on in the midst of an event that threatens her home and institution that she loves.
Eighty years later, Sadie Donovan struggles with her grandmother ’s legacy, known as the famous essayist Laura Lyons. She landed her dream job as a curator at the New York Public Library, which quickly becomes a nightmare when thefts occur from the library's famous Berg Collection. Determined to save both the exhibit and her career, Sadie teams up with a private security expert to uncover the culprit. Things unexpectedly become personal when the investigation leads Sadie to some unwelcome truths about her own family heritage —truths that shed new light on the biggest tragedy in the library's history. Email [email protected] for meeting details.
NOWRUZ CELEBRATION Saturday, March 12 Terrace Lounge Celebrate the Persian New Year with the Youth Committee with food, music and fun! Typically held on the first day of the vernal equinox —which represents the start of spring, Nowruz is a traditional festival that celebrates the Persian New Year. Nowruz means “new day or daylight ” in Avestan. If you have questions or would like to help, email Zohreh Khoshnamak at [email protected] .
WAL U PCOMING E VENTS February 2022 Page 15 Wheel Winter Group Exercise Schedule Session Ends on March 31, 2022!
Call 703 -370-7092 to purchase your class today!
Mondays
k at [email protected] .
WAL U PCOMING E VENTS February 2022 Page 15 Wheel Winter Group Exercise Schedule Session Ends on March 31, 2022!
Call 703 -370-7092 to purchase your class today!
Mondays Wednesdays Saturdays Want to Attend a Fitness Class?
Buy a class pass and use it to attend any of the fitness classes offered at Watergate at Landmark!
Drop -In Rate: $10 per class Pro-FIT Referral Program Don’t keep a great thing to yourself! Refer a friend, family member or neighbor to join Pro -Fit’s Group Exercise Program! If they commit to a class pass and mention you as a referral, they receive 35% OFF the price of their class pass AND you get two FREE classes!
The Winter Group Exercise Class Schedule will run through March 31, 2022. You may join classes at any time; however, classes purchased must be used before the current session ends.
P RO F IT I NFORAMTION Page 16 February 2022 Wheel On December 15, the Youth Committee hosted an event celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Yalda. In our first celebration with the WAL community, and per Yalda tradition, we gathered with our neighbors as one family. A korsi was set up in the Town Hall, and it was covered with different kinds of Iranian foods, nuts, snacks, and fruits —especially watermelon and pomegranate prepared by WAL residents. We sang and danced the night away as we celebrated the birthday of the sun and light.
What is Yalda?
Yalda is celebrated on the longest night of the year, the winter solstice, and dates back to the time of Mithraism
ced the night away as we celebrated the birthday of the sun and light.
What is Yalda?
Yalda is celebrated on the longest night of the year, the winter solstice, and dates back to the time of Mithraism and Zoroastrianism in IranA korsi, which used to be very common in Iranian homes. The celebration is traditionally comprised of a low table with a heat source (often coals) placed underneath. Then, blankets were thrown over it.
Families and guests sat on the floor around the korsi and pulled the blankets over their legs on cold winter nights.
The overall purpose was to bring everyone together. Korsis were also a permanent part of the Yalda celebrations.
Watergate Book Club members had the privilege to meet John Wasowicz, the author of Slater’s Lane, while discussing the book at the January 6th meeting. Wasowicz is a local writer who uses Alexandria as the backdrop for the Mo Katz series, and Slater’s Lane itself is located on the north side of Old Town. Several members previously lived near there or knew friends who lived on that street. He sprinkles familiar Alexandria landmarks throughout the book, which allows local readers to visualize the setting. Because of the pandemic, there aren ’t many references to shops and restaurants; instead, he mainly uses local roads and highways.
A Watergate resident, who knew Wasowicz from a book signing, forwarded the December 30th Watergate Weekly newsletter which listed John ’s book. John responded immediately, as he was very excited that his book was selected for January ’s meeting. He contacted Diane Parker Mullens, our book club organizer, and asked if he could join our discussion. Diane invited him to join our Zoom meeting.
Each of John ’s books are narrated by a different person. Nicole Lecroix,
ker Mullens, our book club organizer, and asked if he could join our discussion. Diane invited him to join our Zoom meeting.
Each of John ’s books are narrated by a different person. Nicole Lecroix, the narrator for the audio version of Slater’s Lane , was invited by John to read a small section of the book.
"John and Nicole's participation in our last book club meeting was an unexpected and delightful surprise! It was an opportunity to discuss how he developed the character of Mo Katz, his inspiration from current news and from the Alexandria locale, and his dedication to his readers," Diane commented about the author visit.
The members were thrilled that John visited our meeting —truly a Watergate Book Club highlight!
About Slater ’s Lane When we meet Mo Katz in the first book of the series, Daingerfield Island), he is a defense attorney and an expert at finding loopholes to keep his clients out of jail. By the third book, Slater ’s Lane, Mo is a prosecutor for the Eastern District. With the pandemic ripping through the nation, Mo, and his team work with the Alexandria police, needs to find alternate methods to solve a murder when a federal prosecutor from his office is brutally killed. SHAB-E YALDA AT WAL By Zohreh Khoshnamak, Youth Committee SLATER LANE’S AUTHOR VISITS WAL By Watergate Book Club WAL residents prepared a korsi and covered it with foods traditionally eaten during Yalda.
John Wasowicz, author of Slater ’s Lane, joins the WAL Book Club for it ’s January meeting. Photo: Diane Mullens February 2022 Page 17 Wheel Page 18 February 2022 Wheel Beatrice Johnson is a 2 year-old Tortoiseshell adopted from the local ASPCA. She proudly wears her battle scars from her life on the streets. Bea loves watching nature videos and
ruary 2022 Wheel Beatrice Johnson is a 2 year-old Tortoiseshell adopted from the local ASPCA. She proudly wears her battle scars from her life on the streets. Bea loves watching nature videos and playing with her tablet.
Her favorite places to nap are her cushion by the window and her igloo under the dining room table. Furthermore, she is in a long -distance relationship with her boyfriend, Danté.
She enjoys belly rubs and ear scritches. Her favorite foods are turkey/ham cold cuts and canned fish. When she is out and about in her stroller, she enjoys being petted and watching the scenery.
We’d love to read about your precious pet! Send your story to [email protected] . Please submit your story in first -person rather than your pet ’s voice.
Beatrice, February 2022 Pet of the Month. PLEASE , “BEA” MINE?
By Alexandra Johnson Boarding the Shuttle from Van Dorn Metro?
When you come out of the tunnel, please don ’t stop at the taxi stand to wait for the Shuttle to pick you up. Instead, walk to the left where all the buses are parked to board the Shuttle.
The Shuttle will only pick up and drop off residents from the designated area where the buses park. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
February 2022 Page 19 Wheel Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Mahjong - 11 AM - CR Seniors - 2 PM - TL/TC Covenants - 7PM - TC Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Tone/Balance/Stretch Bridge - 2 PM - CR Recreation - 5 PM TC/CF1 Youth - 6 PM - TC Infrastructure - 7 PM - TC Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Watergate Book Club Pet - 7:30 PM - CF1/TC FY 2022 BOD Candidate Packets Due By Noon Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Knit and Stitch Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL
- TC Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Watergate Book Club Pet - 7:30 PM - CF1/TC FY 2022 BOD Candidate Packets Due By Noon Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Knit and Stitch Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Pilates - 10:30 AM - TL Communications 7PM - TC Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Mahjong - 11 AM - CR Social - 6 PM - CF2 Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Landscape -11 AM - TC Tone/Balance/Stretch Bridge - 2 PM - CR PRC - 7 PM - TC Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Knit and Stitch Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 “Big Game” Football Party - 6 PM - TL Pilates - 10:30 AM - TL Elections - 2PM - TC Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Mahjong - 11 AM - CR Special Joint Committee Mtg.
with Candidates 7:30 PM - VI Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Tone/Balance/Stretch Bridge - 2 PM - CR Electronic Voting Opens Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Knit and Stitch Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Pilates - 10:30 AM - TL Budget - 7 PM - TC Presidents Day Normal Operating Hours Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Mahjong - 11 AM - CR Board of Directors Meeting - 7:30 PM - TL Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Tone/Balance/Stretch Bridge - 2 PM - CR Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Meet the Candidates Town Hall 7:30 PM - VI Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club Cajun Mardi Gras - 6 PM - TL 27 28 Pilates 30 31 Pilates F EBRUARY 2022 E VENTS LOCATION KEY
27 28 Pilates 30 31 Pilates F EBRUARY 2022 E VENTS LOCATION KEY Page 20 February 2022 Wheel