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Great Falls Connection ❖ July 26 - August 1, 2017 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com online at www.connectionnewspapers.com

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July 26 - August 1, 2017

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Great FallsGreat FallsAva Song, rising fifth grader atGreat Falls Elementary School,with her pets, Fluffy the catand Candy the dog. Fluffy wasadopted from an animal shel-ter and has been the only petin house for the past fouryears. Candy joined the familyjust a few weeks ago. Ava isstill helping them to get along,not a very easy task.

Ava, thePeacemaker

Pet Connection, Page 8

Ava, thePeacemaker

Pet Connection, Page 8

Chamber, CommunityHonor Eileen CurtisNews, Page 3

Great Falls LibraryEncourages Summer ReadingNews, Page 4

Chamber, CommunityHonor Eileen CurtisNews, Page 3

Great Falls LibraryEncourages Summer Reading

Inside

Pet ConnectionPet Connection

2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ July 26 - August 1, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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Great Falls Connection ❖ July 26 - August 1, 2017 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

NewsGreat Falls Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or

[email protected]

By Andrea Worker

The Connection

Back in 1994, Eileen Curtis attended a Herndon Chamber ofCommerce mixer wearing asticky-type name tag that read

“Eileen Curtis, Job Seeker.” Her confidenceand creativity impressed then-ChamberBoard Chairman Bob Gallaway and his col-leagues. Shortly thereafter, Curtis’ new, per-manent name tag read “Eileen Curtis, Ex-ecutive Director.”

Twenty-three years later, addressing thesell-out crowd at her retirement dinner atthe Hyatt Regency Dulles on July 12, Curtissaid she is still amazed and incredibly grate-ful to have received that job offer. “I stilldon’t know why they hired me. I had noexperience or credentials for the job. But Ithink it turned out ok.”

“Job-seeker Curtis” brought with her aresume where she served as the Director ofMusic and Cultural Affairs for WGMS Ra-dio. She had a background in broadcastjournalism and special events, helping toproduce the event on the Washington Mallto welcome home the Iran hostages. Helm-ing the Chamber may have been a secondcareer for Curtis, but it seems she was theperfect fit for an organization that was alsopreparing for new responsibilities, new pri-orities and a new place in the community.

UNDER HER LEADERSHIP, the HerndonChamber grew into the Dulles RegionalChamber of Commerce (DRCC), establish-ing itself as an engine for economic growthin the community and becoming an impor-tant partner in the transformation of thearea into a thriving high-tech hub.

Twenty-first century issues, opportunitiesand challenges faced Curtis and the Cham-ber, and Curtis was instrumental in direct-ing the organization to face them all head-on. During her tenure Curtis helped the

Chamber become a re-nowned advocate forSTEAM (Science, Technol-ogy, Engineering, Arts, andMath) education, innova-tion and business andworkforce development.Curtis also developed part-nerships with six area highschools to mentor studentsand help prepare them forthe changing skills de-mands of today’s busi-nesses.

Curtis launched the an-nual Innovate Conference,where the works of todayand the ideas for tomorroware discussed by businessleaders and innovatorsfrom around the Common-wealth. At last year’s fifthedition of the event, Gov.Terry McAuliffe was thekeynote speaker.

Curtis and the Chamberalso worked toward makingthe Silver Line Metro ex-pansion a reality, realizingthat transportation and in-frastructure were critical tothe success of area busi-nesses small and large, andof importance to the com-munity as a whole.

Controversial issuesdidn’t stop Curtis, either, asshe persuaded the Board toadopt a platform of immi-gration reform. The DRCCis the only chamber in Vir-ginia or within the metroarea to have done so, with the exception ofthe U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

At her retirement dinner, accoladespoured in, both from those present, and via

video submissions of congratulations andthanks from McAuliffe, Sen. Mark Warner(D-VA) and Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), U.S.Rep. Gerry Connolly, Herndon Mayor Lisa

Merkel, and many more. In attendance atthe affair were Fairfax County Board ofSupervisors Chair Sharon Bulova, Supervi-sors John Foust (D-Dranesville), Pat Herrity(R-Springfield), Cathy Hudgins (D-HunterMill), and Kathy Smith (D-Sully). Statesenators and delegates were also on hand,as were other officials and business leaderstoo numerous to name.

“Eileen has meant so much more to thischamber than being its president,” saidDRCC Chairman of the Board JamesLawson. “We are all better people forknowing her as both a colleague and afriend.”

AFTER ACCEPTING certificates, and proc-lamations, and other tokens of appreciation,Curtis took to the podium to make her fare-well remarks – and she still had one lastsurprise in store for her audience. “Bet youdidn’t know I used to be a singer,” she said,before breaking into a re-lyricized versionof the song “Memories” from the musical“Cats” – and bringing the audience to theirfeet with her operatic talents and the witti-cisms of her revised lyrics.

Curtis already has plans for “what’s next.”There’s travelling and volunteering on theagenda, as well as a turn as an author. Herfirst book is almost ready. “Chamber Tales”will “answer the burning question of whata chamber actually does,” said Curtis. A fewof her colleagues responded with exagger-ated looks of alarm and laughing requeststo “please be kind” when recounting someof those tales.

Mixing business with pleasure, Lawsonalso oversaw the votes approving the newofficers for the coming year, and for the in-stallation of John Boylan as the successorto Curtis. “They are big shoes to fill, but weare looking forward to further success andfurther community service under John’sleadership, but Eileen, know you will bemissed and remembered.”

At her retirement celebration, Dulles Regional Chamber of CommercePresident and CEO Eileen Curtis was honored with a parade of formerChamber Board Chairpersons, wearing top hats and each presenting thehonoree with a rose.

Photos by Andrea Worker/The Connection

From left: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova,and supervisors Kathy Smith (D-Sully) and Pat Herrity (R-Springfield.)“She is a tremendous advocate for business in our area. I am particu-larly grateful for her partnership in my annual job fairs,” said Herrity.

Dulles Chamber, Community Honor Eileen Curtis

Great Falls resident Eileen Curtis gives herthanks and appreciation to those who attendedthe event to honor her 23-year tenure as thePresident and CEO of the Dulles Regional Cham-ber of Commerce.


See Library, Page 5

By Maggie Giordano

The Connection

Every summer, many students havea 12-week break from school andthe work that goes along with it.During this time it is possible for

children to choose playing over reading abook; therefore, the Great Falls library takesit upon themselves to encourage summerreading.

One of the things Fairfax County publiclibraries offer is a summer reading chal-lenge. Every year they offer different chal-lenge themes. This year’s challenge themeis “Reading by Design.” The theme is meantto inspire readers to explore their own cre-ativity.

Children can sign up either online or visitthe Great Falls library to participate. Aftersigning up, they are given a reading log inwhich they can either track online or use ahard copy given to them at the library. Af-

ter they finish the log by Sept. 2, they willreceive a coupon book as a prize. The bookcontains more than 30 coupons for free anddiscounted things such as ice cream, minigolf, and more.

EACH AGE GROUP is required to read acertain number of books to receive the prize.Babies through third grade are required toread 15 books, fourth through sixth gradechildren are required to read 10 books, andseventh through 12th graders are requiredto read five books.

The library also offers events to create andencourage life long learners. The summerprograms have been running since June 23and will continue until Sept. 2. They offerfree activities for children of different agegroups from birth to 18 years of age. Theyoften fill up fast; therefore, registration isrequired.

Great Falls Library EncouragesSummer Reading for Children

Photos by Maggie Giordano/The Connection

Youth Services Manager, Hallie Jackson, plans the summer events everyyear.

News

The children enjoyed 123 Andrés’ songs about other countries.


From Page 4

“We do programs every week this summer.Most of the programs in house are run bythe librarian in which they do things likecrafts, combining technology and books foreducational purposes, music programs andMagic shows,” the library Youth ServicesManager, Hallie Jackson said.

For younger children they offer activitiessuch as “Baby Lapsit” and “Toddler Time”in which they engage in stories, songs,rhymes and more. For elementary throughhigh school, they offer time for“Pokémon League,” “PlaydateCafé,” “Crafty Doctors” andmore. There are also teen exclu-sive programs in which theyenjoy learning and engagingabout foot painting and hennatattooing.

“The programs are importantin terms of getting kids into thelibrary. It is important for kidsto be reading over the summerso that they don’t have thatsummer slump where there’s abig gap in their comprehensionskills,” Jackson said.

Latin Grammy winningchildren’s musician, 123Andrés, played for children onthe afternoon of Tuesday, July18. André Salguero is currentlyon his musical tour, Around theAmericas with Andres, in whichhe took children on a musicaltour around the world.

“We want to see these kidsembrace other cultures andgrow because Fairfax County isa very great and diverse area. Ising about being together in thiscountry and understanding oth-ers. The program is centeredaround geography and traveling

through music and dance,” Salguero said.The bilingual singer has been in the coun-

try for 16 years and in the area for aboutsix years and plays shows throughout thecounty and the Northern Virginia, Mary-land, and Washington D.C. area. His new-est bilingual album, “Arriba Abajo” gavechildren the chance to interact with otherswhile exploring the sounds of the world.

FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE of pro-grams and more on the summer readingchallenge, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/library.

Library Challenges Children

Photos by Maggie Giordano/The Connection

The Great Falls Library offers summer reading suggestions in a fun way.Each book under the “Beach Reads” sign had either the word beach inthe title or featured an image of a beach on the cover.

News

The Great Falls library offers summer read-ing challenges and programs for children.


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Great FallsOpinion

By John C. Cook

District Supervisor (Braddock-R)

Strong families are held together by love,support, and commitment. They are thevery foundation of a strong society. If the

core of the family is replaced by violence, thenall of society is weakened.

Domestic violence affects one in four Fairfaxfamilies and causes nearly 1,600 arrests inFairfax every year. It is almost guaranteed thatanyone reading this knows a victim of domes-tic violence, even if they are unaware of it.These statistics alone paint a dire picture. How-ever, there is a way you can make a positivedifference.

Fairfax County’s DomesticViolence Prevention Council,which I chair, rolled out the“Make the Call” campaign ear-lier this year. Its purpose is to

encourage victims and witnesses of domesticviolence to call Fairfax County’s 24-hour do-mestic and sexual violence hotline at 703-360-7273. This number is completely safe and con-fidential. The hotline is staffed by experts al-ways ready to offer information, counsel, andresources to victims and concerned citizens.Callers can receive vital information on where

to find shelter, legalresources, financialaid, and even a safehaven for their ani-mals. Anyone can callto learn about thesigns of domestic vio-lence and even con-firm possible inci-dents.

The hotline is prov-ing to be highly effective and even lifesaving.The Fairfax County Office for Women received1,483 hotline calls with an average of 124 callsper month in 2016. At least 98 percent of thosewho called for services said the hotline betterprepared them to make a safety plan. This callcan mean the difference between life and deathfor those escaping abuse.

Domestic violence is sometimes difficult toidentify for bystanders, as well as victims.Abusers will often convince their victims that

Help End Domestic Violence

Victims and witnesses of domestic violence cancall Fairfax County’s 24-hour domestic and

sexual violence hotline at 703-360-7273.

There were 1,483 calls to the domestic violencehotline in 2016, averaging 124 calls per month.

they deserve the abuse, which shames victimsinto hiding the problem instead of speakingout. Many abusers threaten their victims withharsher, deadlier punishments if they look forhelp. These and other factors make domesticviolence more difficult to recognize without thehelp of a seasoned professional. This is whywe need more people to make the call whenthey have that gut feeling that something isamiss.

For bystanders, it could be a black eye, apassing reference, or even a loud argumentoverheard next door. You do not have to besure. If you think domestic violence maybehappening, make the call and let profession-als help.

For victims, the hotline is available when-ever you need it. If you feel threatened, alone,or unsafe in your own home, please make thecall. You do not have to go through this diffi-cult time alone. The staff at the hotline is herefor you at any hour of the day and will do ev-erything they can to help secure you and yourfamily’s safety.

Again, the number is 703-360-7273. Please,make the call, it could save a life.

Guest

Editorial

To the Editor:I am a senior citizen and I have

read about the situation withhealth care or lack of in this coun-try. Your article mentioned manyfactors that the general public isignorant of. I personally believethat a country’s strength andgreatness is reflected in how theytreat the least of their people.

We have failed on an epic levelas a people. No person wants tobe on welfare, Medicaid, publicassistance or food stamps. The pre-vailing ignorant opinion by thevastly uninformed public is that itis an easy ride and that the indi-viduals on welfare want to live offthe state.

The truth of the matter is that“catastrophic events” can happento anyone and it only takes the lossof employment and devastatingmedical bills to suddenly be forcedto be on state assistance. It is a truenightmare. It is a degrading hu-miliating process and I honestlycannot think of anyone who trulywanted to be on Medicaid or wel-fare. It puts a person in a negativelife-altering position where the

judgment by people is harsh andunsympathetic. People make as-sumptions that those on assistanceare no good lazy bums getting a“free ride.”

The truth is that PresidentJohnson and his “great society”brought about the demise of so-cial security. He opened the doorsto the looting of the program fornon-related financial projects.

I am an independent voter. I ama senior. I used to be an employeeof United Airlines. I lost all mybenefits and do not have any re-tirement. I also was a part timeteacher. I have no teacher’s pen-sion. I have no savings and no re-tirement to fall back on and amliving on S.S.I. of $735 a monthand that is my sole income. It isimpossible to live on this. I haveno money by the middle of themonth.

I injured myself in a freak acci-dent at Dulles airport. I lost myjob. it was a devastating loss forme. I could not find any work. Iwas forced out of desperation toapply for Medicaid. I do not likeMedicaid because the types of cli-

ents I have to associate with andchoice of doctors is very limited.

Having grown up in a familywhere my mother was a Democratand my father a Republican I have

had two viewpoints. My maternalgrandfather was with theBurlington Northern Railroad 30-

“Victor the Vulture is our new office pet. While he’snot very cuddly, we enjoy his visits to our officebalcony, which he uses to ‘scope’ out the area. Fromtime to time we get to watch him dive bomb from thefifth floor of the Government Center. Although weare unsure of his success rate. Victor is bigger thanmost cats and I wouldn’t want him near mine!”— Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova

Letters to the Editor

See Letters, Page 15

‘Catastrophic Events’Can Happen to Anyone


teen

Dear Commissioners:The Great Falls Citizens Association (GFCA) has

conferred with SunTrust Bank and its attorneys on afrequent basis since February, as we discussed withthem the plans for a new bank structure with a drive-through feature. After many months of discussions,public meetings, and a number of significant changesto the structure’s design and size, its landscaping andsignage-as well as retention of two large oaks-theGFCA executive board voted on July 18, 2017 to rec-ommend that the Planning Commission agree to theproposed building (and waivers), contingent on theapproval of these documents:

❖ Special Exception Plat dated Nov. 8, 2016, andrevised through May 10, 2017;

❖ Architectural elevations prepared by Gensler and

dated June 29, 2017;❖ Proposed Development Conditions of July 19,

2017, which include clarifications GFCA’s boardsought on signage (conditions 6-8), conformance ofsidewalks and bicycle racks (condition LL), streetlight mitigation (condition 9); and

❖ Adherence to the county’s dark skies policies onlighting.

SunTrust Bank has been a valued member of theGreat Falls community for many years and we lookforward to continuing a cooperative relationship withthem during construction, and in the years ahead,as they serve the residents of this community.

William Canis, PresidentGreat Falls Citizens Association

A Letter to County Planning Commission

Letters

Send school notes [email protected] bynoon on Friday.

Kanishk Singh of Great Falls, Prob-able career field: Diplomatic Service,Langley High graduate, has receivedCollege-Sponsored Merit Scholarshipfrom Carleton College. The first privatecollege in the Upper Midwest to havechapters of Phi Beta Kappa and Sigma Xi,Carleton has been committed to aca-demic excellence since its founding in1866. The college’s 1,000 acre campus is35 miles south of Minneapolis-St. Paul inNorthfield, where its 1,800 resident stu-dents and over 140 full-time faculty arenear enough to the city to avoid ruralisolation, yet far enough away to enjoy

the advantages of small town life in thecountry.

Great Falls resident, Morgan BradyWallace, has been named to the dean’slist at James Madison University for thespring 2017 semester. Wallace is sched-uled to graduate in 2018 and is majoringin geology.

Madison DiLenge, of Great Falls,was named to the fall and spring dean’slist at The College of William and Mary.

Kyle M. Craver, a resident of GreatFalls, was named to the dean’s list for thespring 2017 semester at Alfred University(Alfred, N.Y.). Craver, a mechanical en-gineering major, is a senior in the

Inamori School of Engineering. A gradu-ate of Field School, he is the son ofJoseph and Leslie Craver of Great Falls.

Ryan Nunes, of Great Falls, major-ing in Political Science, received aBachelor of Arts degree from Miami Uni-versity (Oxford, Ohio).

Gabrielle Rita Van Volkenburg, ofGreat Falls, has been named to the dean’slist at Clemson University (Clemson, S.C.)for the spring 2017 semester. VanVolkenburg is majoring in psychology.

Great Falls resident KatherineW. Cynkar was named to theRhodes College dean’s list for the2017 spring semester.

School Notes


Pet Connection

By Joan and Jim Brady

Today, Fred prefers to split his time be-tween watching over the Great Fallsneighborhood from the couch and nap-ping in the sun. But in his prime, he loved

to travel, traversing the United States twice beforehe was 7. Fred has enjoyed the best of what this coun-try has to offer; national parks, historical sites, kitschdestinations, food-filled city streets and the companyof a wide range of citizens.

Fred Took America

Fred prepares to eat some tasty Lake Tahoe tourists. LakeTahoe, Nev.

Fred stares across the narrow stretch of the Rio Grandeas he contemplates the challenging issues surroundingillegal immigration. Big Bend National Park, Texas.

Fred wonders the same thing we did: Had the artist neveractually seen Bill Clinton? Little Rock, Ark.

Fred sits on the front porch of the home where DwightD. Eisenhower was born. Denison, Texas.

Fred at an overlook at the Antietam Battlefield.Sharpsburg, Md.

Now 15, Fredprefers towatch the

world fromthe window.

A beaded Fred waits patiently for the nextintoxicated person to pet him. New Or-leans, La.

Fred in front of the world’s largest beaglesat the Dog Bark Park Inn. We chose not tostay there. Cottonwood, Idaho.

Fred beneath the Gateway Arch. St. Louis,Mo.

Fred hangs out on a bench in front of theRonald Reagan Birthplace & Museum. Fredalso likes jellybeans. Tampico, Ill.


Cats benefit from being in a foster home. We needlong- and short-term fosters for cats of all ages,mothers with litters and kittens on their own.

Adopt/Donate/Volunteer at www.lostdogrescue.org

Consider Fostering

You Can Make a Difference

visit our website, cl ick on Participate

Fred does the runway in front of the RioGrande Gorge Bridge. Just outside Taos,N.M.

Fred does his best sloppy sit in the Valleyof the Gods. Monument Valley, Utah.

Fred enjoying a gorgeous sunset. BadlandsNational Park, Utah.

Fred does his best to take Carhenge seri-ously. Alliance, Neb.

Fred takes his posing up a notch, doingthe tilty-head between some rocks atEnchanted Rock State Park.Fredericksburg, Texas.

Fred takes a break from a fun-filled day ofsledding down the sand dunes. WhiteSands, N.M.

Pet Connection


cial work team and given an opportunity tosay a few words. There was clapping, cheer-ing and even some tears. Adults expressedpride in their young charges’ accomplish-ments and the young adults, both shyly andexuberantly, showed their own pride inthemselves and appreciation for the supportthey had received from the support grouprepresented in the room.

Nathanial (Nate) Walters of Alexandria,tossed aside the microphone, his self-confi-dence and sense of humor carrying acrossthe room. Walters told the crowd, whichincluded his mom, that when his father diedand his mother couldn’t meet his needs, heended up in foster care. Older now, he hasspent time in “independent living” and haslearned the hard way what happens whenyou don’t manage your money carefully. Headvised the crowd that they should avoidwhat he called the “rice diet” that has, at

times, had to be his staple.He talked about hanging out at a local

teen center, where he noticed that none ofthe other youths ever helped the womanwho manned the front desk. When sheneeded help, he began to help her. Andwhen she learned of his graduation fromhigh school, she had a card for him, in itwas $20 and a note wishing him good luck.She made sure he understood that shedoesn’t give money away lightly, even tofamily members. Walters really needed thatmoney. Without it, he would not have beenable to get to work. “She loved me,” Walterssaid, “She helped me.” He says he is thank-ful for his trials, because they have madehim who he is today.

Christian Basubi, now a college studentat George Washington University, sharedthat foster care was “the most wonderfulthing that had ever happened [to him].”

Wells + Associates has been working with the county for 15 years and,for the past four, they have designed and printed the posters celebratingeach graduate at the annual graduation.

News

By Joan Brady

The room at the Waterford inSpringfield, buzzes with happychatter over a low mix of up-beat tunes. Framing the space

are posters that celebrate the uniquenessof each graduate.

Fourteen young people were celebratedlast Friday at the annual Fairfax CountyDepartment of Family Services High SchoolGraduation Celebration.

For the young people in this room, chil-dren who were removed from their biologi-cal families due to a range of abuse andneglect and moved between foster andgroup homes, the challenges that stood be-tween them and a diploma were significant.

Graduation rates for children raised infoster care are 49.6 percent less than thenational average and the statistics on col-lege graduates are even lower. Having ahigh school diploma significantly increasesthe range of job opportunities and earningpotential.

“Instead of giving up, you continued tomove forward. In spite of all you have beenthrough, you achieved this milestone. Be-cause of your hard work and the support ofpeople both in-and outside of this room, weare able to be here to celebrate you.” Theroom cheered at the words of ChaunceyStrong, foster care and adoption supervi-sor.

The event, planned by Natalie Sposato,Fairfax County Department of Family Ser-vices, life skills coordinator, is intended tokeep this milestone from going unnoticed.“A high school diploma can never be takenaway. It’s something that should be ac-knowledged and celebrated,” said Sposato.Together with the support of the Depart-ment of Family Services staff and membersof the community, the event included a buf-fet, giveaways, certificates and speeches.And, at every opportunity, the proceedingswere paused to give all of the graduates onemore big cheer.

TWO SPEAKERS, young adults whosechildhoods mirrored those of the new grads,encouraged that this is just the beginning.Cordelia Cranshaw, a foster children advo-cate, motivational speaker, licensed gradu-ate social worker and foster care alum, toldthe recent graduates that education hadbeen the key to her own success. She en-couraged the new grads to be their ownadvocates and reminded social work pro-fessionals to listen to their charges and toremember that the life they are trying toinfluence, is not their own.

Dionte Fitts, assistant manager at JerseyMike’s in Leesburg and foster care alumni,encouraged the new grads to dig down todiscover what makes them happy so thatthey can find their own destiny. To succeed,he advised, they must believe in themselvesand not give up. He told them to rememberthat being in foster care isn’t their fault.

Nine graduates were celebrated in per-son, each toasted by a member of their so-

When he was initially placed in care, he wasnew to this country and learning English asa second language. Everyone he met in hisESL classes was an adult, not a peer.

He expressed his appreciation for all ofthe support he has received while in careand particularly to have been part of FairfaxFamilies4kids, a county mentoring program,which provided him with a supportive com-munity of youths and mentors with whomhe could spend time on those lonely week-ends. “It wasn’t easy,” said Basubi. “It’s stillnot easy. But I’m doing it little by little. Iknow I will get somewhere.”

“How we engage with our youth is soimportant. If the interaction is good, theywill remember it. If the interaction is bad,they will remember it. ... Today, to hear somany of our graduates publicly acknowl-edge their social workers and other socialwork professionals made me proud,” saidStrong.

Wells + Associates has been working withthe county for 15 years and for the past four,they have designed and printed the posterscelebrating each graduate at the annualgraduation. Wells considers its partnershipwith the county to be part of its corporateresponsibility. “We recognize that it takes avillage and as a member of the community,we believe it’s our job to be part of that vil-lage,” said Melissa (Missy) Jackson.

FOR SOME, the graduation was anothersad reminder of a young life violently cutshort earlier this month. Mentors, socialwork staff and members of his family, in-cluding his twin brother, gathered to cel-ebrate Leonte, who aged out of foster careseveral years ago. Leonte was determinedto earn his high school diploma and gradu-ated last February at 23-years-old. He wasslated to be one of the speakers at the day’sevent.

Leonte is described as having been a kind,loving and compassionate young man. As alittle boy, his smile lit up the room and hisdance moves were legendary. His deathserves as a stark reminder that the chal-lenges for children who grow up in fostercare don’t end when they age out into youngadulthood.

If interested in making a difference in thelife of a child in foster care and after theyage out, consider becoming a Court Ap-pointed Special Advocate (CASA) or becom-ing a mentor with Fairfax Families4Kids.

Courtesy photos

Department of Family Services celebrates2017 high school graduation.Beating the Odds

2017 GRADUATION SPONSORSThe following sponsors made donations

toward food, decorations and gifts for thegraduates: Bernie L. Bates Foundation, Inc.;Central Park Funland; Chantilly Costco; LaserQuest; Potomac Nationals; Psi Alpha AlphaChapter; Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.;Starbucks from VPS; Uptown Alley/Manassas;Washington Nationals; Walmart-Fair Lakes; andWells + Associates.

Joan Brady is a professional photographer; award-winning columnist; co-owner of Spirited Media, Inc.,mentor and advocate for current and former fosterchildren; a volunteer with paws4people and others;and a resident of Great Falls. Reach her [email protected].


News

By Fallon Forbush

The Connection

A new beauty salon opened forbusiness in Great Falls, but thewoman running the shop is byno means a novice to her craft

or the area.The E.L.E Day Spa opened on Saturday,

July 15, at 10135 Colvin Run Road in of-fice space across the street from Leigh Cor-ners and next to the Great Falls AnimalHospital.

Loyal customers showed up to receiveservices: Hairdressing, makeup, manicuresand pedicures and other cosmetic treat-ments. The reason they were so eager tosupport the salon is all in the name: “E,”“L,” “E.”

It’s an acronym for the first names ofLutfiye “Lucy” Yilmaz and her two sons,Erkan Hayiroglu and Emir Hayiroglu.

“We don’t care which order the ‘Es’ arein, but the ‘L’ is bigger,” Erkan said. “She’sthe main person and the reason that cus-tomers come in.”

Lucy Yilmaz has been a licensed cosme-tologist since 1987, according to the Vir-ginia Department of Professional and Oc-cupational Regulation, and has been a nailtechnician for even longer. She began study-ing the art and science of decoratingpeople’s fingernails and toenails in Turkeybefore she immigrated to Virginia in 1980.

After working for years in Vienna, Yilmazopened her own studio, Nail Studio, onWalker Road in Great Falls in 1989, butclosed it down in 1994, before moving andopening another studio, Nail Studio & DaySpa, in Reston in the North Point VillageCenter.

Her Reston establishment accumulated 28reviews on Yelp.com, a website thatcrowdsources reviews about local busi-nesses, before it closed down.

OVERALL, comments, photos and ratingsfrom reviewers were positive.

Now that she has returned to Great Falls,she intends to run a “family-oriented” and

“tight-knit” paradise for her loyal clienteleto relax and unwind. She also hopes to meetnew customers in need of her skills.

“I love being around people and I cannotbe behind a desk,” Yilmaz said. “I have totalk to people and I love making them beau-tiful.”

Her heritage and her passion for peoplewas on full display during the grand open-ing as she bounced around the new salonand performed services while pushingcomplementary Turkish hors d’oeuvres:Borek, a pastry stuffed with spinach andFeta cheese, and baklava, a layered pastryfilled with chopped walnuts and almonds,soaked in honey and garnished with groundpistachios.

The Turkish food was catered by BorekgHomemade Turkish Food in Falls Church.Patrons were also offered other snacks anddrinks, along with free eyebrow threadingor waxing services during the grand open-ing.

“I’ve been going to Tiffany for sevenyears,” Rachel Semanchik of Reston said aspedicurist Tiffany Huynh was rubbing agreen masque onto her legs. “I go to Lucytoo for my eyebrows. They’re worth follow-ing.”

Joan Barrow of Great Falls also ravedabout Yilmaz’s homecoming.

“I’ve been a client for a while,” Barrowsaid. “I came for years and then I moveddowntown [D.C.] and it was just too far.But now I’m back,” she exclaimed as Yilmazwas working on her fingernails.

Yilmaz was painting Barrow’s nails withpolish from LeChat’s Perfect Match MoodGel Polish line. Like mood rings, the polishreacts and changes color based on the tem-perature of the wearer’s nails.

“I’m going to Vegas,” she said, justifyingher more playful “Deep Sea” polish, whichtransitions from a faded red to a deep blue.

“They let you soak and then the scrub wasso good,” Monica Walker of Reston said ofher lavender spa pedicure. “They heated the[paraffin] wax. You have the warmth soak-ing into your bones.”

Walker, an engineer who has been follow-ing Yilmaz since 2006, said the treatmenthelps with her arthritis.

“It had some thermally-conductive prop-erties,” she said.

Jenny Groff of Reston has been seeingYilmaz for 20 years and was treated to aneyebrow threading during the grand open-ing.

This hair-removal technique uses cottonor polyester thread that is doubled, twistedand then rolled over areas of unwanted hair,plucking the hair from the follicle.

“It doesn’t hurt as much as waxing,” Groffsaid as Yilmaz carefully twisted cottonthread against her skin. Yilmaz pulled thelines of the thread taut with both hands andat another end held in her mouth. This tech-nique is sanitary because the portion of thethread never leaves her mouth during theprocedure.

Patrons can also get their hair dressed byEngin Bozkurt, the studio’s master hair styl-ist, who previously worked at the Toka Sa-lon & Day Spa, which has locations in Wash-ington, D.C., New York, and Alexandria andGreat Falls.

HAIRDRESSERS at the salon use the fullportfolio of hair color, haircare and stylingproducts from Goldwell, according toBozkurt.

The salon uses VOESH of New York’s “Pediin a Box Deluxe 4 Step” aroma spa set forits pedicures, which include ingredients fora sea salt soak, foot scrub, mud masque andmassage lotion that are scented in a varietyof smells: Lavender, green tea, olive oil,cucumber and more. The products are ve-gan and paraben-, triclosan- and cruelty-free.

“You grab a flavor and smell and if that’swhat you want, we use it,” Yilmaz’s sonErkan Hayiroglu said. “They are individu-alized for customers and each come withplastic liners.”

To ensure a clean and hygienic experi-ence, employees also sanitize the tubs aftereach use, in addition to lining the tubs, ac-cording to Hayiroglu.

The salon uses OPI, Gelish, DND, LeChat,SNS and other brands for its nail polish, geland shellac and en Vogue gels for sculpt-ing, according to Yilmaz.

Yilmaz also provides permanent makeupservices for her clients and performs a pro-cedure called microblading on eyebrows.The procedure is a meticulous, two-hourprocess that fills brows out or reshapes themby drawing on tiny lines that look like indi-vidual hairs with a hand-held tool. Numb-ing and sanitizing ointment is spread overthe area before Yilmaz uses the tool to bladepigment into the skin for a semi-permanenttattoo that fades over 18 to 24 months.

The E.L.E Day Spa opens at 10135 Colvin Run Road.Cosmetologist Returns To Great Falls

New and long-time staff members came together to work at Lutfiye“Lucy” Yilmaz’s new Great Falls Salon.

Cosmetologist Lutfiye “Lucy” Yilmaz performed a manicure on JoanBarrow of Great Falls on the grand opening day of her salon on Saturday,July 15.

E.L.E Day Spa Master Hair Stylist Engin Bozkurt cuts the hair of LaurieAmodeo of Middleburg during the grand opening day.

Photos by Fallon Forbush/The Connection


Entertainment

Send entertainment announcements toconnectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/.Deadline is Friday at noon for the follow-ing week’s paper. Photos/artworkencouraged.

ONGOINGGreat Falls Farmers Market.

Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 778 WalkerRoad, Great Falls. Music, vendors,fresh produce, fresh prepared food,delightful bakery, spices from aroundthe world, wild-caught fish, grass-fed, free-range meats, organic-fedpoultry and eggs. [email protected].

The Light of Day Paintings. ThroughJuly 15, various times BroadwayGallery, 1025-J Seneca Road, GreatFalls. Featuring landscape paintingsby Michael Godfrey, ChristineLashley, Tricia Ratliff, and RajendraKC. Call 703-450-8005.

Julie Cochran Photography. Varioustimes through July 29 at the ViennaArts Gallery, 513 Maple Ave. W.Exhibit called “Lotus-Palooza.” Call703-319-3971 or visitwww.ViennaArtsSociety.org.

Sunny Days Art. Artists exhibitionthrough July 29 at the Vienna ArtsCenter, 115 Pleasant St., NW. SunnyDays exhibition. Call 703-319-3971or visit www.ViennaArtsSociety.org.

“Summer in the City” Art Show.Normal business hours through Aug.15 at Brightview, 10200 Colvin RunRoad, Great Falls. Members of GreatFalls Studios will exhibit their workin a show. Call 703-759-2513.

Stories and Sprinklers. Wednesdaysthrough Aug. 2, 1:30 p.m. at 144Maple Ave. E., Vienna (behind theFreeman Store). Hear a story. Visitwww.viennava.gov or call 703-255-6360.

Free Tai Chi. Every Saturday, from7:55-9 a.m., Introduction andBeginners’ Practice, meet on theoutdoor basketball court locateddirectly behind the Dolley MadisonPublic Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Ave.in McLean Central Park, McLean. Call703-759-9141 or visitwww.FreeTaiChi.org.

First Sunday Jazz Brunch 11-2 p.m.Recurring monthly on the 1st Sundayat Bazin’s on Church 111 Church StN.W., Vienna. Enjoy brunchaccompanied by the soft jazz soundsof Virginia Music Adventure. Visitwww.fxva.com/listing/bazins-on-church/1686/

The Freeman Store & MuseumWednesday through Sunday noon-4p.m. 131 Church St. NE, Vienna. TheFreeman Store & Museum isdedicated to Preserving andpromoting Vienna’s heritage throughthe identification, preservation, andinterpretation of history significantplaces, events, and persons.Historicviennainc.org

Weekly Storytime. Wednesday andSaturday. 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble,7851 L Tysons Corner Center,McLean. Themes and titles vary. Freeadmission.

Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. FlameRoom, Vienna Volunteer FireDepartment, 400 Center St. S,Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/bingo.html.

Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.Emmaus United Church of Christ,900 E Maple Ave. E., Vienna.Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. UnitarianUniversalist Congregation of Fairfax,2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton.Gentle Kundalini Yoga, one freeintroductory session, seniordiscounts. Increase flexibility,improve breathing and health, reducestress. Ravi Kaur has 15 yearsexperience teaching yoga. $15 persession. www.edimprovement.org.571-213-3192.

Fishing Rod Rentals 8700 PotomacHills St., Great Falls. Rentalsavailable during visitor center hours.Fishing tackle and live bait are

available for purchase. Reservationsrequired for group rentals. $6/rental(2 hour max). Valid driver’s licenserequired. Rod/reel combinations areperfect for beginners and children. AVirginia or Maryland freshwaterfishing license is required for those16 years or older. The park does notsell fishing licenses.www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend-park/

Colvin Run Mill open 11 - 4 p.m.daily, closed Tuesday. 10017 ColvinRun Road, Great Falls. FairfaxCounty’s operational 19th centurywater powered gristmill, offersrecreational and educationalactivities for all ages through dailytours, school programs and specialevents. Fees: $7/adult, $6 students16+ with ID, $5 children & seniors.Admission to park is free except forsome special events.

Fundamentals of Watercolors.Mondays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Artsof Great Falls, 756 Walker Road,Great Falls. Artist Lorrie Herman willhelp students get comfortableworking with watercolors andunderstanding this medium. Visitwww.greatfallsart.org.

Still Life Painting. Tuesdays 10:30a.m.-1 p.m. at The Arts of Great Falls,756 Walker Road, Great Falls. Stilllife provides a great tool to honeskills. Recommended for students ofall levels. Visit www.greatfallsart.org.

Evening Painting. Tuesdays 6:30 -9:30 p.m. at The Arts of Great Falls,756 Walker Road, Great Falls. JillBanks focuses on oil paintingfundamentals with two sessions eachof still life, landscapes, and portrait/clothed figure from a live model.Visit www.greatfallsart.org.

Intro to Jewelry Design. Tuesdays 9a.m.-noon at The Arts of Great Falls,756 Walker Road, Great Falls. JJSingh teaches a class for anyoneinterested in exploring the world of

metal clay and its design possibilities.Visit www.greatfallsart.org.

AUGUSTFairfax Family Golf Month. At Oak

Marr Golf Complex is located at 3136Jermantown Road, Oakton. InAugust, parents pay for their 9-holeround of golf and accompanyingchildren and teens (ages 8-17) willreceive a round at no charge. This isalso good at Jefferson District GolfCourse is located at 7900 LeeHighway, Falls Church, and PinecrestGolf Course, 6600 Little RiverTurnpike, Alexandria. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf.

DEADLINE JULY 31Human Condition Photo

Competition. At the Vienna ArtsSociety, 1350 Beverly Road, #316.“The Human Condition” judge LauraGoyer, awards reception is Saturday,Aug. 19, 5:30 p.m. $5 per piece forVAS members, $7 per piece for Non-members. Visitwww.viennaartssociety.org/.

WEDNESDAY/JULY 26Meet the Cooking Author. 6:30 p.m.

at Wildfire, Tysons Galleria, 3rd floor,2001 International Drive, McLean.Lecture by John Shields, author of“Chesapeake Bay Cooking,” host ofthe PBS series Coastal Cooking, andowner of the renowned Gertrude’s inBaltimore. $65. Call 703-442-9110.

THURSDAY/JULY 27Daniel Nahmod in Concert. 7:30

p.m.at Unity of Fairfax, 2854 HunterMill Road, Oakton. New Thoughtsinger/songwriter performs originalmusic with a poetic and evocativemessage of peace, love, andcompassion. $20. Call 703-281-1767or visit unityoffairfax.org.

FRIDAY/JULY 28Summer on the Green Concert.

6:30 p.m. at 144 Maple Ave. E.,Vienna. Featuring Wayne TympanickQuartet. Free. Call 703-255-6360 orvisit www.viennava.gov.

LeAnn Rimes Concert. 6:30-8 p.m. atthe The Tysons Corner Metro StationPlaza, 1961 Chain Bridge Road. Partof the Tyson’s Concert Series. Visitwww.tysonscornercenter.com or call703-893-9401.

SATURDAY/JULY 29Big Splash Party. 1-3 p.m. at 144

Maple Ave. E., Vienna. Water gamesand slide. Visit www.viennava.gov orcall 703-255-6360.

SUNDAY/JULY 30Kara and Matty D Concert. 5 p.m. at

McLean Central Park, 1468 DolleyMadison Blvd. A couple plays songsfrom all eras, with vocal harmonies.Part of The Alden at the McLeanCommunity Center’s 2017 SummerSunday Concerts in the Park. Call theCenter at 703-790-0123 or visitwww.aldentheatre.org.

Concerts on the Green. 6-8 p.m. atGreat Falls Village Centre Green. Jr.Cline and The Recliners are playingclassics and rhythm and blues. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.

WEDNESDAY/AUG. 2Skyward Story Concert. 6 p.m. at

Jammin Java, 27 Maple Ave. E.,Vienna. Baltimore-based pop rocktrio. Visit jamminjava.com/ or call877-987-6487.

Understanding PoliticalPolarization. 7-9 p.m. at GreatFalls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike,Great Falls. A “Meetup,” wherepeople from diverse backgrounds willtry to better understand their ownand others’ values and beliefs acrossthe usual political boundaries. Free.Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/gf/ or [email protected].

SUNDAY/AUG. 6Big Bang Boom Concert. 5 p.m. at

McLean Central Park, 1468 DolleyMadison Blvd. Children-friendlymusic. Part of The Alden at theMcLean Community Center’s 2017Summer Sunday Concerts in thePark. Call the Center at 703-790-0123 or visit www.aldentheatre.org.

Concerts on the Green. 6-8 p.m. atGreat Falls Village Centre Green.Diamond Alley are playingcontemporary and classics. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.

WEDNESDAY/AUG. 9Understanding Political

Polarization. 7-9 p.m. at GreatFalls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike,Great Falls. A “Meetup,” wherepeople from diverse backgrounds willtry to better understand their ownand others’ values and beliefs acrossthe usual political boundaries. Free.Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/gf/ or [email protected].

SATURDAY/AUG. 12Dan Navarro Concert. 7:30 p.m. at

Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. E.,Vienna. $20-25. Call 877-987-6487or visit www.jamminjava.com.

SUNDAY/AUG. 13Concerts on the Green. 6-8 p.m. at

Great Falls Village Centre Green.Tom Principato in concert. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.

Aztec Two-Step Concert. 6 p.m. atJammin Java, 27 Maple Ave. E.,Vienna. Folk-rock duo celebrates therelease of their new album “Naked.”$25 Visit jamminjava.com/ or call877-987-6487.

TUESDAY/AUG. 15“Dining with Dorothy.” 12:30 p.m.

at the Westwood Country Club, 800Maple Ave. E., Vienna. Dining withDorothy events are Shepherd’s Centerof Oakton-Vienna events heldperiodically throughout the year asopportunities for mature adults tomeet and socialize with new peoplealong with old friends. Call 703-281-0538.

Surviving Your Split Lecture. 7:30-9 p.m. at the Patrick Henry Library,101 Maple Ave, E, Vienna. MarthaBodyfelt how to reduce breaking-upstress, avoid the most commonmistakes, and gain clarity on what toexpect. Call 703-938-0405.

WEDNESDAY/AUG. 16Understanding Political

Polarization. 7-9 p.m. at GreatFalls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike,Great Falls. A “Meetup,” wherepeople from diverse backgrounds willtry to better understand their ownand others’ values and beliefs acrossthe usual political boundaries. Free.Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/gf/ or [email protected].

Art ExhibitSunny Days artists exhibition through July 29 at theVienna Arts Center, 115 Pleasant St., NW. Sunny Daysexhibition. Call 703-319-3971 or visitwww.ViennaArtsSociety.org for more.

SummerSundaySummer SundayConcerts in the Parkfeaturing Kara andMatty D, Sunday, July30, at 5 p.m. inMcLean Central Park,1468 Dolley MadisonBlvd. Free. Call theCenter at 703-790-0123 or visitwww.aldentheatre.org.


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Senior Center to HostAntique Appraisal Event

“How much do you think it’s worth?” Well, grab your favorite (por-table) heirloom or piece of jewelry and join Great Falls Senior Center(GFSC) on Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon as GFSC, in concertwith Paradigm Experts, hosts their version of the “Antiques Road Show”at the Colvin Run Historic Schoolhouse, 10201 Colvin Run Road, GreatFalls.

Paradigm Experts is a network of accredited appraisal experts help-ing clients make informed decisions regarding their personal items.

There is a limit to 40 items (20 jewelry/gem/watch/coin related and20 “all other categories”) being appraised. Anyone wishing an item tobe evaluated must send a picture and a description of the provenance(how long has it been in your family? What do you know about italready?) ahead of time. Deadline for submitting pictures and descrip-tions is Aug. 31. First come, first served.

Send electronic copy to Yasha Arant at [email protected] ormail hardcopy to: Yasha Arant, 104 Sue Ann Court, Sterling, Va 20164.

Those submitting an item for appraisal are requested to arrive at thevenue at 9 a.m. so items can be reviewed prior to the 10 a.m. show.

Audience members don’t have to be having an item appraised inorder to attend this event. Contact Karen Emami [email protected] or call 703-938-6471.

This event is sponsored by TD Bank, www.tdbank.com.

Week in Great Falls

Faith Notes

Faith Notes are for announcements andevents in the faith community. Send [email protected] is Friday at noon.

Wesley United MethodistChurch located at 711 Spring St., SE,Vienna, Virginia 22180, at the corner ofSpring Street and Moore Avenue. 10:30a.m. fellowship time in the fellowship

hall; 11 a.m. traditional family worshipin sanctuary. If you are seeking a churchhome which encourages: caring andsupportive fellowship, an active anddevoted prayer life and study of scrip-ture, support for local and worldmissions, an open, responsive aware-ness to the presence and power of God’sHoly Spirit.


ClassifiedTo Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411

WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM

Computers

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We pay top $ for STERLING, MEN’S WATCHES,

JEWELRY, COSTUME JEWELRY, FURNITURE, PAINTINGS AND CLOCKS.

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Announcements Announcements

News

By Mercia Hobson

The Connection

Hiring Our Heroes — The United StatesChamber of Commerce Foundation andThe American Legion Department ofVirginia State Convention conducted a

Military Hiring Event on Thursday, July 13 at theHilton Washington Dulles Airport Hotel in Herndon.Fifty top-tier local and national employers and ser-vice organizations participated in the daylong event.Jobs opportunities were available to transitioningservice members, veterans, and military spouses.

Dave Wallace, Media and Communications Chair,Dyer-Gunnel Post 180, The American Legion Depart-ment of Virginia said, “This hiring event is the firstof its kind for the American Legion Department ofVirginia. It’s giving back to our veterans. It is an op-portunity to show their skills sets to all these em-ployers; a chance to prove how they will be an assetto the companies.”

LEAVING THE MILITARY can be daunting formany, and seeking employment a new venture. Be-fore the hiring fair began, Hiring Our Heroes, U.S.Chamber of Commerce Foundation offered attend-ees a unique employment workshop, one that con-cisely covered a variety of topics.

Cara Cooke, USAF Senior Manager, Hiring OurHeroes taught the seminar. Cooke focused the dis-cussion on how best to create three essential per-sonal branding tools: an effective resume, the 20-second elevator pitch, and a digital identity. Cookeacknowledged those in the military have grownaccustomed to military jargon, but their resumemust translate military experience into civilian lan-guage. Using tools on-hand, Cooke said job seek-ers could create a resume in 20 minutes, print it,and have it ready to distribute to potential em-ployers upstairs.

Next, Cooke described how to build a personalbrand statement, the brief 20-second elevator pitch.“State who you are, what your background is, andwhat you want. Ask what they can offer you, andstop. Stop. Let them talk,” Cooke instructed. She re-minded attendees that when they are talking to pro-spective employers: “Give eye contact and don’t lookat the ground. Talk to everybody. Contact is so im-portant.” Cooke added: “Today is your day. They seeyour value and want to hire you.”

The third tool Cooke stressed was the importance

of a professional digital identity. She discussed howto develop and grow a network using LinkedIn. “Eachemployer here has a LinkedIn account. They canreach back to you.” Cooke recommended the jobseekers take one of each prospective employer’s busi-ness cards. She told them to write a note about theirmeeting, a reminder to themselves what they spokeabout with the recruiter, on the back of each one’sbusiness card. “Then send a follow-up email to thepeople you met today,” Cooke said. “Remind themwho you are and ask them to review your resume.”Cooke urged attendees, “Be persistent. Do not endyour job search after the fair. Use the tools HiringOur Heroes provides.”

Bobbi Diviney is a Marine Veteran from Leesburg.After leaving the workshop, she prepared to enterthe hiring fair. Asked what she had learned and whattype of job she was looking for, Diviney said, “I didn’tknow about the Hiring Our Heroes job page [por-tal]. I’m currently a graduate student in Crime Analy-sis. This is my first Hiring Our Heroes Job Fair.”

Marcus Bottelcher is District Manager for Fastenal,a Fortune 1000 company. He stood ready to greetprospective employees. Asked if he was hiring thatday, Bottelcher said, “Ten to fifteen percent of thepeople we hire are veterans or National Guard. Theirskill set fits our mindset. I’m out to hire today. Takecards. Any good candidates, I’ll send appointments.Fairs like this help the Veterans. When their namesshow up in the system, they stand out because I’vealready met them.”

According to Dave Wallace, Media and Communi-cations Chair, Dyer-Gynnell Post 180, The AmericanLegion, 235 job seekers had registered for the jobfair by early afternoon with 50 participating employ-ers and service organizations present.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Hiring OurHeroes, a program of the U.S. Chamber of CommerceFoundation to help veterans, transitioning servicemembers and military spouses find meaningful em-ployment opportunities, visitwww.uschamberfoundation.org.

Career event created tohelp job seekers findmeaningful employmentopportunities.

Military Hiring Fair Held in Herndon

Navy Veteran Natalie Wallaceof Manassas put her newly

learned networking andinterview skills she acquired

at the Hiring Our Heroesemployment workshop towork. Wallace introduced

herself to Nela Peterson ofProgressive Insurance. After-

ward, Wallace said, “I learnedonline applications might not

be as productive as face toface. Networking is key.”

The Military Hiring Fair featured 50 top-tierparticipating employers and service organi-zations ready to hire. The event attractedmore than 235 transitioning service mem-bers, veterans, and military spouses.

Photos by Mercia Hobson/The Connection


Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

The cats. The car. The dentist. The pancre-atic enzymes. It was a week that typically isn’t.As often as my credit card was swiped thesepast few days, I’m amazed its magnetic strip isstill magnetized. To quote my deceased mother,Celia: “It’s enough already.”

Oh well, what’s done is done, though itdefinitely needed doing. And aside from thefact that I didn’t have the actual money, fortu-nately I had the available credit, which I wasgrateful to have had. I mean, how long can youput off necessary evils/expenditures before theyrear their ugly consequences? And thoughmoney doesn’t grow on trees (linen actually),credit seems to, and so the to-do list now hassome cross-outs/”has-dones” finally.

Now the anxiety about neglecting the “to-dos” is replaced by the worry about thecost/needing-to-pay the “having-dones.”Nevertheless, the cats have had their vaccina-tions shot current.

The car now has a passenger window thatgoes down – and back up, a check-engine lightthat no longer illuminates, a blower that willnow provide heat in the winter and a defoggerwhen needed, and as it turns out a bit of unex-pected air conditioning.

The dentist has referred me to an oral sur-geon (since the teeth were both “unresto-rable”/not root canal candidates) who willextract two teeth from my mouth and hundredsmore from my bank account/probably creditcard – again, but no doubt get me back on acourse of dental correction.

The pancreatic enzymes, the most expen-sive bottle of pills I buy (I consume upwards of55 pills per day) is an expense I incur everythree months and does something to help myimmune system keep the lung cancer in-check,a priority if there ever was one.

Paying to keep on playing (so to speak), bymaintaining this kind of normalcy enhances thefeeling that life is indeed still being played. Andnot that my attitude/philosophy in such respon-sibilities is totally affected by yours truly havingbeen diagnosed with a “terminal” form of can-cer: non-small cell lung cancer, stage IV, to bespecific, but as the old punchline says: “It does-n’t hurt.” And avoiding hurt is definitely part ofthe fighting-cancer strategy; along with avoidingstress, eating healthy, exercising and boostingone’s immune system.

I guess what I’m realizing that I have twolives, sort of, the usual and customary life:work, play, day-to-day stuff and the cancer life:lab work, chemotherapy, scans, oncologist, pills,lifestyle changes, etc. On some days, they areparallel. On other days, they intersect. Andthough they may be separate, they are inter-related. What benefits one is likely to positivelyaffect the other.

Additionally, a negative in one life will like-wise have an adverse consequence in the other.However, the requirements to maintain theirrespective lives is different. Yet balance/co-exis-tence must be maintained in order for one toremain “twogether.”

Two separate halves will not make for aresponsible whole, but rather lead to an emo-tional one. And if there’s one attribute that acancer patient/survivor must have, it is emo-tional wherewithal. Failure to do so in one’scancer life will likely spill over into the non-can-cer life (and vice-versa) and cause a kind of anadult version of failure to thrive.

Cancer might win the battle in the end butyou can’t let it win the battle in the interim.Fulfilling your every-day responsibilities helpsgive that life the kind of accomplishment thataids and abets in your fight against your cancerlife. Moreover, handling your cancer life givesyou the confidence and optimism to live yournon-cancer life.

Granted, the two lives might not exactly bethe best of friends, but they must be partners ofa sort. The sort that is independent, apprecia-tive, respectful and considerate.

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takes that can be made in his subject and how to avoid them.-Werner Heisenberg

plus years and was vice president at onetime of the railroad union so my motherwas very workers rights oriented and myfather’s family were bankers. My paternalgrandfather was vice president of NationalBoulevard Bank in Chicago. So I get an in-teresting perspective.

It does not make sense to me that theyare going after this failsafe program for themost disadvantaged of our country. This isa safety net. There are so many other pro-grams that need to be examined. But I can-not understand this assault on the humancondition of our citizens. There are blackops programs that get unlimited funding.The waste is in these special interest pro-grams. No one is investigating the $100toothpicks. Somehow the health and wel-fare programs are the target for cuttingwhen in actuality government waste inthese other pet projects should be ad-dressed. We have projects that have no ac-countability.

Valerie BensonBurke

From Page 6

Letter

To have community events listed in the Connec-tion, visit connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/.The deadline for submissions is noon on Friday.

THROUGH JULY 28Vendor Application Deadline. Reston

Community Center is seeking arts and craftsvendors, food vendors and civic organizations ofall cultures for the 17th Annual RestonMulticultural Festival. The festival will be heldSaturday, Sept. 23, 2017 at Lake Anne Plaza inReston. Interested groups or individuals shouldfill out the appropriate Vendor ApplicationForm, available atwww.restoncommunitycenter.com/mcf.

THROUGH JULY 31Backpacks for Students. Various times at Christ

the King Lutheran Church, 10550 GeorgetownPike, Great Falls. Christ the King’s Team Serviceis collaborating with Reston’s aid to familiesorganization Cornerstones and school suppliescollection organization Kids R First to helpyoungsters in the community. Collections willrun through July; drop off in the church lobby.Visit www.gflutheran.org or call 703-759-6068.

TUESDAY/AUG. 1Speaker At McLean Rotary Lunch. Noon in

the Fellowship Hall of the Lutheran Church ofthe Redeemer, 1545 Chain Bridge Road,McLean. Sharon Bulova, the current chair of theFairfax County, Virginia Board of Supervisors,will be speaking. [email protected] for more.

AUG. 2-30Fit for Life Classes. 11 a.m.-noon at the Bruen

Chapel United Methodist Church, 3035 CedarLane, Fairfax. Fairfax Fit for Life Classes aresponsored by the Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna to improve strength, balance andmobility for older adults. Call 703-281-0538 oremail [email protected].

THURSDAY/AUG. 3Support Group for Caregivers. 10-11:30 a.m.

at the UUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregationof Fairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter MillRoad, Oakton. This support group is designedfor caregivers of adult family members. Contactfacilitator Jack Tarr at 703-821-6838 [email protected].

THURSDAY/AUG. 17Support Group for Caregivers. 10-11:30 a.m.

at the UUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregationof Fairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter MillRoad, Oakton. This support group is designedfor caregivers of adult family members. Contactfacilitator Jack Tarr at 703-821-6838 [email protected].

Bulletin


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