Opinion, Page 6 Making History In Fairfax City

WellbeingPage 9

Fairfax Steps Back into HistoryNews, Page 8

Evenings of Laughter And Standing OvationsEntertainment, 2

Making History In Fairfax City

News, Page 3

From left, So Lim and Sang Yi are the first Asian Americans

elected to City Council.

online at www.connectionnewspapers.com May 3-9, 2018

Opi

nio

n, Pag

e 6 v

Enter

tai

nm

ent, Pag

e 10

v

C

lass

ified

s, P

age

14Bonnie

Hobb

s/T

he

Connec

tio

n

Postal CustomerECR WSS

Attention Postmaster: Time sensitive material.

Requested in home 5-4-18

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDEaston, MDpermit #322

2 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ May 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

The staff at two elementaryschools – Mosby Woods and Provi-dence Elementary — challengedeach other to a game of basketballon Thursday, March 22, at OaktonHigh School, with a final score ofMosby Woods, 67, to Providence,57. Between the players, musi-cians, cheerleaders and admissioncollectors, there were around 50volunteers from the two schools,plus 1,000 fans in the crowd.

The event raised about $1,000for the Lamb Center of Fairfax,which serves the poor and home-less.

According to Dan Phillips, Prin-cipal of Providence Elementary,“It’s such a great opportunity forus to get together and have a fam-ily event. We have a fantastic PTAand they do so many good thingsand they helped organize this to-night. And, we love being withMosby Woods. Some of our kidsgo to the center at Mosby Woods

so there’s sort of a family connec-tion already and it’s all for a goodcause.” Added Mahri Aste, Princi-pal of Mosby Woods Elementary,“We’re so proud of this event be-cause it raises money for our localcharity, which is the Lamb Center.So, it’s one of our best events ofthe school year because it reallybrings our whole staff, students,teachers, parents all together andto do a great thing and we loveplaying the game.”

“We have a bunch of staff mem-bers, 50-plus volunteers betweentwo school getting together to vol-unteer their time to raise moneyfor a local charity and that’s themost important thing. And every-body has a fun and positive expe-rience and then also you have abunch of adults running aroundand none of us have gotten hurtso that’s good too,” said organizerTaylor Gaddy.

— Steve Hibbard

About 1,000 people filled the bleachers at OaktonHigh School.

Charity BasketballGame Raises $1,000

Showing their school spirit are Providence Elementaryfifth-graders (from left): Todd Blakeney, Micah Gillespie,and Michael Nguyen.

The halftime performance included the Mosby Woodssixth-graders dancing to “Thriller.”

By Steve H

ibbard/T

he C

on

nectio

n

Fairfax Connection ❖ May 3-9, 2018 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

NewsFairfax Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or [email protected]

By Bonnie Hobbs

The Connection

The City of Fairfax made historyTuesday night when it elected itsfirst-ever Asian-Americans, SoLim and Sang Yi, to City Coun-

cil. Reflecting the nation’s growing diver-sity, they’ll join incumbents Janice Miller,Jon Stehle, Jennifer Passey and MichaelDeMarco, who were all re-elected.

There was standing-room only May 1 inOld Town Hall, as residents and candidatesalike, plus their families, watched a largescreen as the voting results for each pre-cinct came in. They cheered for everyoneand, afterward, the winners spoke from thepodium.

“This is going to be a unique and inter-esting City Council,” said Miller. “Not onlydo we have some ethnic diversity, we havepeople not born in Fairfax City, who didn’tattend Fairfax High School and who weren’teven born in the U.S., but later became citi-zens. And that’s a different outlook on theCouncil. We also have people spanning fivegenerations.”

So, she said, “We’re going to be able tocome at problems and challenges from adifferent perspective and craft solutionswhich will serve this City very well. I lookforward to working with all of you to makethis the very best place to live.”

Two seats on the Council came open whencurrent members Ellie Schmidt and JeffGreenfield chose not to run again. In all,eight people vied for the six Council slots,with Yi garnering the most votes, 2,053,followed next by DeMarco, with 1,980.Stehle received 1,940 votes; Miller, 1,926;

Passey, 1,906; and Lim, 1,850. ChallengersJoe Harmon and Tom Ross were defeated.

RUNNING UNOPPOSED, Mayor DavidMeyer was re-elected with 2,635 votes;there were 153 write-ins. And all five SchoolBoard members – Carolyn Pitches, MitchSutterfield, Bob Reinsel Jr., Toby Sorensenand Jon Buttram – were also unopposed andre-elected.

“All of us did something today fundamen-tal to democracy – we went out and voted,”said Meyer. He then thanked the City’s Elec-toral Board, Registrar’s Office and tirelesselection officers “who worked all day forus. And I express my personal appreciationto Ellie Schmidt and Jeff Greenfield for theiryears of service to this City.”

Meyer also thanked the School Boardmembers for “their work on behalf of allthe students of our City,” as well as Harmonand Ross for their contributions to Fairfax.“Putting yourself out in front of your neigh-bors and making your case [for election] isnot for the faint of heart,” said Meyer. “Tothe four incumbents, congratulations onyour re-election; and to Sang Yi and So Lim,I look forward to working with you, andwelcome to City Council.”

“It’s been a great pleasure getting to knowthe people of Fairfax [while campaigning],”said Lim. “And as a Councilwoman, I’ll con-tinue to visit you and ask about your con-cerns. I really worked hard, and I want tothank [everyone who helped and supportedme].”

Holding his daughter Evie, 4, while hespoke, Yi said, “Fairfax is not just a place ora home, it’s a family. I’m so grateful for ev-eryone in this room. We can have disagree-ments but, at the end of the day, we’re stilla family.” He also thanked his wife Sarahfor all her support.

“As the demographics have changed, wedon’t just have people who’ve always beenhere, we have people from all over,” he con-tinued. “Families stick together, and we’regoing to work through everything together.”

Passey thanked her family for all its help,plus the volunteers who advocated for hercandidacy. “Thank you to every voter,” shesaid. “We have a great city, and I’m so proudto be standing here tonight. I look forwardto working with you all to move us forwardin a positive direction.”

Delighted to be re-elected, Stehle said,“From streetlights to strategic vision, it wasall discussed at the polls today, and we didit in a collaborative and open manner.” Hethanked Ross and Harmon for running hon-est campaigns. And noting how his childrenwere involved in his campaign, Stehle said,“It means a lot to show the next generationwhat it means to be a democracy – to getout and engage [in your community].”

“I love doing this,” said DeMarco. “Thiswill be my fourth term on City Council, andI’m looking forward to the next two years.We have a lot of activities hitting us soon,and we’ll have to take action on them.” Hethanked his supporters and wished his wifeJoanne a happy birthday, and the crowdthen sang happy birthday to both her and

Evie Yi, who was also celebrating her birth-day May 1.

Lastly, Meyer thanked his wife Cindy forher support and the residents for re-elect-ing him mayor. “It is a distinct privilege toserve you,” he said. “Ten years ago, when Idecided to run for City Council, [formermayor] John Mason said I’d learn throughcampaigning how kind, thoughtful and ap-preciative the residents are, and that says atremendous amount about our City.”

OF FAIRFAX’S 24,000 RESIDENTS,Meyer stressed that more than 26 percentwere born in another country.

“That’s profound,” he said. “And it saysthey came here for the freedom we haveand to be part of our democratic experience.I welcome them and look forward to greatthings for this City – the best is yet to come.”

Both the Council and School Board mem-bers serve two-year terms and will officiallytake office July 1. “It’s wonderful to runwithout opposition,” said School Boardmember Mitch Sutterfield. “I do the samethings I always do – knock on doors, dropoff campaign literature, plant signs and talkto people. But there’s no pressure; it’s fun.”

Carolyn Pitches has been on the Boardeight years. “Education is my life’s work,”she said. “I’ve been a teacher for 20-plusyears, and my kids are in our schools, so Ihave a vested interest in what goes on inthe buildings.” While campaigning, said cur-rent Board Chairman Jon Buttram, “Peopleask me about pre-K education availabilityfor kids, AAP [advanced academic place-ment] and sometimes, budget questions.They also want to know the difference be-tween our School Board and the county’s,and I like explaining this to people whodon’t know about the relationship betweenus. “We’re the City’s voice in education andwe have a really solid partnership with thecounty that’s beneficial to both of us,” hecontinued. “We’re more than 40 percent ofthe City’s budget and we’re fully cognizantof our responsibilities.”

Surrounding Mayor David Meyer (center) are Council members (fromleft) So Lim, Michael DeMarco, Jennifer Passey, Janice Miller, Jon Stehleand Sang Yi. The final election results for the City Council candidates.

Making History in Fairfax CitySo Lim, Sang Yiare first Asian-Ameri-cans elected toCity Council.

Mayor David Meyer.

Pho

to

s by Bo

nn

ie H

obbs/T

he C

on

nectio

n


News

The young singers have been hon-ing their voices for months, sing-ing in large and small groupsevery week since January.

On Saturday, they finally got the chanceto showcase their work, as nearly 900 sixth-grade singers — hand-picked by their el-ementary school music teachers for theirvocal talent — sang together at HayfieldSecondary School for the 46th annual All-County Choral Festival.

“It is truly an honor for the students per-forming today to be a member of this selectgroup of vocalists,” said Kelly M.Harbison,president of the Fairfax General Music Edu-cators Association and a music educator atCanterbury Woods Elementary School.

Led by guest conductor Dr. JamieHillman, the students sang a variety ofmusic — from George Handel’s classic “Singfor Joy!” to Joan Varner’s “When I Am Si-lent,” a tribute to young Holocaust victims.

The song, and the voices of 900 sopra-nos, moved many in the audience to tears.

“These young singers were truly amazing,”

said Hillman, who previously taught musicat Phillips Academy and Boston University.

“They’ve only had one day to practice asa complete group, and they came togetherflawlessly. Their energy and enthusiasm wasinspiring.”

In addition to the 900 singers, Hayfield’sauditorium was packed with twice as manyfamily members, including School Boardmembers, school principals and Superinten-dent of Schools Dr. Scott Brabrand.

“I told parents ‘prepare to be wowed bythese singers.’ I think we were all blownaway by the talent and organization it tookto accomplish this, “ Brabrand said.

Organization was key as music teachersused songs and audience sing-offs to quicklyreunite singers with their families and move2,000 people out of the auditorium in un-der 15 minutes.

“The festival was a rousing success at ev-ery level. We’re all proud of these studentsand our music teachers for this festival,”BraBrand said.

— Victoria Ross

Voices ring for All County Choral Festival.

Do-Re-Me SING!

Nearly 900 sixth-grade singers — hand-picked by their elementaryschool music teachers for their vocal talent — sang together at HayfieldSecondary School.

Photos by Victoria Ross

Almost 2,000 people, plus 900 singers, packed Hayfield SecondarySchool for the 46th annual All-County Chorale Festival.


The 46th Annual

Clifton Homes Tour

scholarships and charities through our 501(c)(3) Charitable Trust

Friday, May 18, 2018

Tour: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

$25 in advance,

$30 the day of the tour and online

Silent Auction: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Free Admission

Clifton Presbyterian Church

Historic Clifton Churches

Silent Auction, Wreath Sale and Trinkets and Treasures at

Clifton Presbyterian Church

Ticket Sale Locations

Clifton: Adler’s Art & Frame • Belle Jar Design • Hydrangea of CliftonCentreville: Banner’s HallmarkManassas: Flower GalleryBurke: Five Star Hair • The Picket Fence • The Yarn BarnFairfax: Twinbrook Floral Design

Day of the Tour: Clifton Presbyterian ChurchOnline: www.cliftoncwc.org

Visit www.cliftoncwc.org or contact [email protected]

Another Connection Community Partner

News

By Paula Kelley

Rotary Club of Fairfax

The Rotary Club of Fairfax was pleasedto welcome back a long time member, Dr.Scott Brabrand, the superintendent ofFairfax County Public Schools, to a recentmeeting. Dr. Brabrand, once the principalof Fairfax High School, became a Rotarianat the Fairfax club in 2006. In 2012, he ac-cepted a job as superintendent of LynchburgPublic Schools in Lynchburg, Va. After fiveyears in Lynchburg, Dr. Brabrand was se-lected to become the superintendent ofFairfax County Schools in 2017.

Dr. Brabrand spent some time addressingFairfax Rotarians with an engaging updateon the county school system. The superin-tendent was excited to share some new edu-cation ideas. The superintendent believesthat college preparation remains important.He did emphasize that employers seekstrong math skills from their future employ-ees but also want their employees to de-velop communication skills. In the quest forexcellence, Dr. Brabrand emphasized to theRotary Club that there are many good col-leges in Virginia. Students and their par-ents should consider several colleges whenmaking future educational choices, not only

the top three Virginia schools.Dr. Brabrand sees the need for alterna-

tive training for those students who do notplan to attend college. He updated the clubon the importance of continued vocationaltraining as well as cyber security training.In fact, according to the superintendent,cyber security classes have become so popu-lar that more teachers are needed for thissubject. Dr. Brabrand also discussed initia-tives in the schools under the Strategic Plan:Ignite. At the same time, under a continu-ous improvement model, all programs areevaluated to make sure they are effectiveand efficient methods to serve students andfamilies. Newly back in the area after fiveyears, the superintendent is excited to leadthe school system in a positive direction.Many in the room fondly remembered hisleadership at Fairfax High School. His en-ergy, knowledge of school system supervi-sion and understanding of the NorthernVirginia area, will serve him well. The clubenthusiastically welcomed Dr. Brabrandback to Fairfax. For more information aboutthe Rotary Club of Fairfax, visit the club’swebsite at www.fairfaxrotary.org or emailthe Rotary Club of Fairfax’s Executive Di-rector, Irby N. Hollans Jr., [email protected].

Brabrand Returns toFairfax Rotary Club


Opinion

By Eileen Filler-Corn

State Delegate (D-41)

Recently, GovernorRalph Northamsigned legislation toraise the felony lar-

ceny threshold from $200 to $500in Virginia as part of a bipartisancompromise. While imperfect asmany bills are, HB 1550, carriedby Delegate Les Adams, is a smallbut necessary step in the right direction.

Raising the threshold is a key breakthroughfor common sense criminal justice reform. Iapplaud Governor Northam for not only deliv-ering on a top campaign promise within hisfirst few months in office — but doing so bycoming to a bipartisan compromise and work-ing with his Republican partners across theaisle. I was privileged to carry the Governor’slegislation the past two years to raise this

threshold. While my legislation did not moveforward, I was honored to serve as a co-pa-tron on HB 1550 and privileged to have theopportunity to finally help make this initiativethe law.

In recent years, Virginia has been a leader inthe nation when it comes to providing peoplesecond chances — which is why it is surpris-

ing that Virginia has held the low-est larceny threshold in the coun-try alongside New Jersey at $200.In my mind, this was simply un-acceptable. Since 2000, at least 37states have raised their felonythefts thresholds, and many of ourneighboring states, includingNorth Carolina and West Virginia,have their felony larceny thresh-old at $1,000.

Raising the threshold will notonly create a more just and fairer

system — but it is fiscally responsible and willcreate a safer Commonwealth. According to theACLU, larceny convictions accounted for oneout of every four individuals incarcerated in2012, at a cost of approximately $25,000 a yearper individual. The Virginia Department of Cor-rections found that the state could have savedbetween $18.3 million and $22.5 million justin prison costs between fiscal years 2009 and2014 had the General Assembly raised the

threshold to $500 or $600 in 2008. And thesavings could have been even higher if it wasraised to $1,000.

It is worth noting that people cannot con-tribute to our economy if they are incarcer-ated. Virginians who have paid their debt tosociety and strive to actively contribute to it,find themselves struggling to find employmentbecause of a felony record, when it could havebeen a misdemeanor. Those convicted of lar-ceny also face barriers to housing, healthcareor taking out a loan.

Raising the felony larceny threshold does notonly pertain to adults; it impacts theCommonwealth’s children too. Larceny was thetop category for juvenile arrest in Virginia in2017. This means that one can be carrying theweight of an adolescent mistake on their backfor the rest of their life. We can and must dobetter.

I have been working on the issue of raisingthe felony larceny threshold for two yearsnow. While I was proud to carry versions ofthis bill on behalf of Governor Ralph Northamand former Governor Terry McAuliffe, I keptthinking to myself during that time that wecannot let one’s mistake ruin that person’sentire life. Virginia’s progress on this issue hasbeen slow, but this breakthrough for criminaljustice reform is a small and needed step inthe right direction.

Why raising the felonylarceny threshold to$500 is an importantstep in Virginia?

Small But Needed Step in the Right Direction

MissingNumbersTo the Editor:

County Chairman SharonBulova’s April 25 opinion piece,“Budget Hits All the Right Notes,”about the proposed FY2019 realestate tax hike, is misleading.When she says the proposed realestate tax rate is

$1.15, she omits the stormwaterrate. When that is included theFY2019 rate will be $1.1825 in-stead of $1.15.

She states that new budget in-cludes a 2-cent increase in the realestate tax rate, but this omits theadditional tax increase due to the2.2 percent increase in averageresidential assessments. The effec-tive rate increase when assess-ments and the additionalstormwater rate increase (1/4cent) are included is 4.7 cents, not2 cents.

The typical Fairfax Countyhomeowner’s real estate tax billwill increase by $258, a 4.2 per-cent increase. Loudoun Countyreduced its average tax bill by $48,a 1 percent decrease.

Chairman Bulova states that thetax hike fully funds the MarketRate Adjustment, Performance,Merit and Longevity increases forcounty employees and states thatthe Market Rate Adjustment is

2.25 percent. She does not statethe total salary increase resultingfrom the Performance, Merit andLongevity increases. When thoseare included county employeeswill see average increases rangingfrom 4.25 to 4.50 percent.

Likewise, the school board isfunding a 2.3 percent step increaseand other salary adjustments, butdoes not say what the total aver-age raise will be when the otheradjustments are included. It islikely to be 4 percent also.

The real estate tax hike will in-crease county revenues by about$116 million. The cost of nextyear’s county and school raises is$139 million. Raises are the pri-mary driver of the county’s annualreal estate tax hikes.

Since FY2000, the supervisorshave increased real estate taxes169 percent, more than threetimes faster than inflation, whichincreased 53 percent.

If Chairman Bulova felt that thevoters who defeated the 2016meals tax, which would haveraised $100 million, would supportnext year’s 4.2 percent tax hike toraise $116 million for 4 percentraises, why didn’t she acknowledgethose numbers in her statement?

Arthur PurvesPresident

Fairfax County TaxpayersAlliance

Letters to the Editor

MedicaidExpansion:It’s TimeTo the Editor:

The 2017 elections demon-strated that Virginians believe thatindividuals cannot work, take careof their families, or pursue happi-ness if they cannot see a doctorwhen they are sick. The candidateswho heard this message and ranon expanding access to healthcare,won. Those advocating for expan-sion are more than willing to com-promise with lawmakers who mayhave legitimate policy concerns.

We know that 33 other stateshave already opted to insure theirworking poor. It is time that ourfederal tax dollars stay here in Vir-ginia to help cover approximately400,000 hard-working familiesearning up to 138 percent of the

poverty level. Making health insur-ance available to more Virginiansis the right thing to do and thesensible thing to do. The Federalgovernment is offering to cover noless than 90 percent of the costsof insuring Virginia’s workingpoor. Virginia’s hospitals are com-mitted to covering the remaining10 percent of the costs. Additionalmoney flowing to Virginia underMedicaid expansion will enablethe state to increase funding forschools and other needed services.Another benefit of Medicaid ex-pansion is the likelihood of smallerrate increases in our health insur-ance plans. Studies have shownthat in states where more peopleare insured, the cost of uncompen-sated care drops.Yes, we will allbenefit if more of us have accessto healthcare. It is time to act!

Barbara FavolaState Sen. (D-31)

WriteThe Connection welcomes views on any public issue.

The deadline for all material is noon Friday. Letters must be signed.Include home address and home and business numbers. Letters are

routinely edited for libel, grammar, good taste and factual errors. Send to:

Letters to the EditorThe Connection1606 King St.

Alexandria VA 22314Call: 703-917-6444.

By e-mail: [email protected]

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

@FfxConnection

An independent, locally owned weeklynewspaper delivered tohomes and businesses.

Published byLocal Media Connection LLC

1606 King StreetAlexandria, Virginia 22314

Free digital edition delivered toyour email box. Go to

connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe

NEWS DEPARTMENT:[email protected]

Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414

[email protected]

Bonnie HobbsCommunity Reporter ❖ 703-778-9438

[email protected]

Andrea WorkerContributing Writer

[email protected]

Jean CardProduction Editor

[email protected]

ADVERTISING:For advertising information

e-mail:[email protected]

703-778-9431

Debbie FunkDisplay Advertising/National Sales

[email protected]

David GriffinMarketing Assistant

[email protected]

Classified & EmploymentAdvertising703-778-9431

Editor & PublisherMary Kimm

[email protected]@MaryKimm

Executive Vice PresidentJerry Vernon

[email protected]

Editor in ChiefSteven Mauren

Managing EditorKemal Kurspahic

Art/Design:Laurence Foong, John Heinly,

Ali KhalighProduction Manager:

Geovani Flores

CIRCULATIONCirculation Manager:

Ann [email protected]

Fairfax


Your “Nicely Done” Kitchen or Bath is Right Around the Corner!A “One-Stop Shop” That Goes Above and Beyond Your Imagination

Kings’s Park Shopping Center8934 Burke Lake Road, Springfield VA 22151703-764-3748 www.nicelydonekitchens.com

Find us on Houzz,Facebook, & Angie’s List!

lostdogandcatrescue.org

lost (adj): 1. unable to findthe way. 2. not appreciatedor understood. 3. no longer

owned or known

AdoptDonate

VolunteerVolunteers needed for

adoption events,fostering,

transportation,adoption center

caretaking and more.

People

The national Association of Con-cert Bands (ACB) has chosen Cityof Fairfax Band Music DirectorRobert Pouliot to receive its high-est honor for a band leader: TheOutstanding Conductor Award.

Pouliot, who has led the nation-ally acclaimed City of Fairfax Bandsince 1994, will be only the fourthperson to receive the award sinceits creation in 2010. The nationalhonor recognizes conductors whohave demonstrated musical lead-ership excellence, conductingskills, musicality, community con-tributions, educational foresight,and dedication to the ACB organi-zation.

“There are a number of awardsthat honor the community band asan ensemble, but the OutstandingConductor Award is the only onethat singles out the conductor,”said Gail Brechting, creator of theaward and chair of its selectioncommittee. “Sometimes we (con-ductors) get to bow, but peoplehave no clue about the work thatgoes into it,” she said.

The award’s selection panel—two past ACB presidents and two

previous Outstanding Conductorrecipients—noted that Pouliot of-ten selects music for the City ofFairfax Band that is more challeng-ing than typical community bandpieces. However, the concerts hecreates always entertain and en-gage audiences at all levels. Healso secures exceptional guest art-ists, Brechting said.

Nominating Pouliot for theaward required the City of FairfaxBand Association to submit a 40-minute audio of live concerts heled, a video of a performance heconducted the past year, and threerecommendation letters from fel-low band directors or well-knownmusicians. Brechting said the bandplayed very well and the recom-mendation letters for Pouliot were

“exemplary.”Plans call for an ACB represen-

tative to present Pouliot the awardplaque later this year.

A Rhode Island native, Pouliotreceived his bachelor’s andmaster’s of music degrees from theUniversity of Connecticut atStorrs. He accepted a U.S. AirForce commission in 1986 andspent seven years conducting con-cert and jazz band tours in 15states and in Central and SouthAmerica. He also was on the con-ducting staff of the U.S. Air ForceBand in Washington, D.C.

Since his appointment as City ofFairfax Band music director in1994, Pouliot has released threecompact discs with the band, se-cured world-renowned guest art-ists, and instituted the annualYoung Artists Competition thatawards scholarship funds to North-ern Virginia musicians.

In addition to the ACB Outstand-ing Conductor Award, Pouliot hasreceived the National BandAssociation’s Citation of Excellence.In 2015, he was bestowed the JohnMason Arts Achievement Award.

City of Fairfax Band ConductorReceives Outstanding Conductor Award

Robert Pouliot

Pho

to

co

ntributed


News

See History, Page 14

Attendees enjoy a hayride on the grounds of Historic Blenheim.

Fairfax Steps Back into History

Civil War re-enactors (from left) Paul Gossand Rudy Segaar of the 17th Virginia Infan-try, Co. D, Fairfax Rifles.

Barbara Fornoff, of the Waterford Weav-ers, works at a hand loom at FairfaxHistory Day.

Tony Mead-ows, captain

of the 49th

VirginiaInfantry,

shows spec-tators hisrevolver.

Fairfax History Day wasApril 28 at Historic Blenheim.

Pho

to

s By Bo

nn

ie H

obbs/T

he C

on

nectio

n


Wellbeing

By Marilyn Campbell

It was during college when LauraGreenstein began to notice thatsomething was not quite right. “Inoticed that things that were creat-

ing anxiety on a daily basis, they weren’tjust situational,” she said. “My anxiety wasgrabbing onto anything that it could. If Iwas running late, I would start to panic. Anysmall thing became a big issue.”

“My mother has always been supportive,but when [my anxiety] got to a certain pointsome close friends and family began to stig-matize it,” said Greenstein, who now worksfor the National Association for the Men-tally Ill (NAMI) in Arlington. “They wouldsay, ‘You’re not doing enough.’ It was diffi-cult to feel that I wasn’t being fully ac-cepted.”

After months of therapy and recent ses-sion with a psychiatrist who prescribedmedication, Greenstein said that she is be-ginning to feel some relief. She even beganblogging about her experience. “This wasmy first time sharing my story,” she said.“It’s been a really validating process. Beingopen can really improve your outlook.”

During May, Mental Health AwarenessMonth, Greenstein and other mental healthadvocates are sharing the ways in whichnegative perceptions about mental illnessescan impact those who suffer from it. NAMI

reports that approximately 1 in 5 adults andchildren in the United States are experienc-ing mental illness in a given year. Only 41percent of those adults received mentalhealth treatment, while slightly more thanhalf of children aged 8-15 received thoseservices. One of the roadblocks to treat-ment, say mental health professionals, is thestigma surrounding mental health.

“Micro-aggressions towards individualswith mental illness are very common, suchas assuming that someone with a mentalillness is inferior, stupid, or not in controlof their own behaviors,” said JessicaMcLaughlin, Ph.D., assistant professor ofpsychology at Montgomery College. “Be-cause of our society’s misperceptions ofmental illness, many individuals strugglingwith mental health problems feel ashamedand isolated. They may even feel like it isnot appropriate to seek help. “[And] beingon the receiving end of these hurtful com-ments and beliefs actually worsens symp-toms.”

With a theme of “Cure Stigma,” NAMIactivists are encouraging people to educatethemselves and eradicate the stigma whichcan be a roadblock to those who suffer frommental illness to get the treatment theyneed. They were afraid of being labeled, sothey suffered in silence. This is particularlytrue with teenagers and preteens, advisesStacie Isenberg, Psy.D., a child psychologist

who specializes in anxiety disorders. “Amental illness stigma may cause a teen orpre-teen to be hesitant to admit to her orhimself that they are having a mental healthproblem, to share with a parent, teacher,or pediatrician about their problem, and toseek mental health treatment,” she said.

The stigma surrounding mental illness isan important issue that often goes unrec-ognized, says McLaughlin. “Individuals withmental illness face both overt and covertdiscrimination,” she said. “For example,there is an assumption that people withmental illness are violent or crazy, which isnot true. However, our belief in these mythscan affect someone’s ability to find employ-ment or obtain housing.”

“Education is a powerful tool in combat-ing mental health stigma, and community-wide, mental health awareness campaignsare helpful,” added Isenberg. “Individually,kids often search online to check out whattheir symptoms mean. Education from cred-ible websites, and those of mental healthorganizations often provide clarity andguidance for those seeking help.”

Allowing those who might be experienc-ing symptoms of a mental illness to speakfreely about their condition without fear ofjudgment can remove barriers to treatmentadvises McLaughlin. “That means askinghow we can help, listening with an openmind, and being nonjudgmental,” she said.

Sometimes it can be a tremendous help justto let someone know that they have some-one to lean on and that they are not alone.”

People can also fight the stigma of men-tal illness by being accepting and support-ive of people who are experiencing mentalhealth issues, and by modeling this accep-tance for their children, suggests Isenberg.“Employers can encourage employees to usemental health days as needed, and to per-mit longer lunch hours or flexible dismissalor arrival at times to accommodate therapyappointments,” she said. “Similarly, schoolscan work with families to allow kids to usefree periods, lunch periods, etc. to attendtherapy when an after-school time is notavailable and the need for treatment is sig-nificant.”

A family’s attitude about the mentally illcan affect a child’s willingness to ask forhelp, advises Isenberg. “A child who comesfrom a family that does not consider men-tal health issues to be real or problematicmay be reluctant to share with her or hisparents,” she said. “Similarly, kids whosefriends stigmatize mental health issues, orkids who don’t talk much about personalissues with friends, are often unsure aboutsharing with their friends. On the contrary,kids who believe their families and friendswill be sensitive and supportive to them aremore likely to be open with them about anyconcerns they are having.”

Mental Health advocates work totear down barriers to treatment.Erasing the Stigma

MoreSee www.nami.org

Support. Information. Hope.

Please join us for coffee at our Second Saturday Divorce Workshop and get theinformation and support from professionals: a family law attorney, a financial advisor, a

family therapist, a private investigator, an estate planning attorney and other professionalswho will help guide you through the divorce process. Speakers vary for each workshop.

Registration at the door; however, pre-registrationis recommended as space is limited.

Online Registration: www.secondsaturdaynova.comEmail: [email protected]

Phone: (703) 591-7475

Saturday, May 12 2018Saturday, June 9, 2018Saturday, July 14, 2018

9:00-9:30a.m.-Registration9:30-1:00 p.m.–Workshop

Duff & Kronfeld, P.C.Fair Oaks Commerce Center11320 Random Hills Road/Suite 630Fairfax, VA 22030

Date:

Time:

Place:


Submit entertainment announcements atwww.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. Thedeadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artworkencouraged.

ONGOINGArt Exhibit: The Scenic Route. Through May 6,

gallery hours at Warrior Way Gallery (W-16),Lorton Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 WorkhouseWay, Lorton. Chester Kasnowski, a veteran ofthe United States Air Force, is a multi-disciplinary artist who believes in the power oftradition and history. www.workhousearts.org/event/chester-kasnowski-scenic-route/ for more.

Art Exhibit: This and That. Through May 7, 11a.m.-5 p.m. daily at The Artists’ UndertakingGallery, 309 Mill St. in Historic Occoquan. “Thisand That.” an features copper work by AnneJordan of Fairfax; oil paintings by Steve Mylesof Reston; and turned wood by Greg Wandlessof Fairfax. Call 703-494-0584 or visitwww.theartistsundertaking.com.

Art Exhibit: To the Ends of the Earth.Through May 13, gallery hours at VulcanGallery, 1st Floor, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518Workhouse Way, Lorton. Workhouse Arts Centerpresents To the Ends of the Earth Visitwww.workhousearts.org.

Rock of Ages – The Musical. Through May 20,Fridays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. atWorkhouse Arts Center, Building W-3 (Theatre),9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. This Tony-Awardwinning musical takes the audience back to the1980s era of big: big bands, big egos big guitarsolos and big hair. Parental discretion advised.$20-$35. Visit www.workhousearts.org.

Second Saturdays. 6-9 p.m. at the WorkhouseArts Center, 9518 Workhouse Road, Lorton. TheSecond Saturday Art Walk is the perfect time tomeet nearly 85 Resident and Associate Artists,creating art in the studios or exhibiting in ourgalleries. Visit www.workhousearts.org/.

Carolina Shag. Wednesdays, 6:30-10 p.m. atArlington/Fairfax Elks Lodge, 8421 ArlingtonBlvd., Fairfax. Free lessons at 7:30 p.m. Nopartners needed. Dinner menu. $8. Under 21free. nvshag.org.

FUN-Exercise Thursdays, noon-12:50 p.m. atGrace Presbyterian Church Family Room, 7434Bath St., Springfield. Inova certified exerciseinstructor leads a moderate level exercise classwith music and current events conversation.Muscle, Balance, Strength Training using stretchbands and weights both standing and seatedexercises. Instructor donation is [email protected] or 703-499-6133.

Smoke Free Bingo. 7 p.m. Every Friday. FairfaxVolunteer Fire Department, 4081 UniversityDrive, Fairfax. Free coffee, entertaining callers,$1,000 jackpot (with breaks for smokingfriends). www.fairfaxvd.com. 703-273-3638.

English Conversation Groups weekly atGeorge Mason, Burke Centre, and LortonLibraries Practice and improve your English. Dayand start times vary. Visit: va.evanced.info/fairfaxcounty/lib/eventcalendar.asp

THURSDAY-SATURDAY/MAY 3-5“The Little Mermaid.” Thursday-Friday, 7 p.m.;

Saturday, 1 and 7 p.m. at Fairfax High School,3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax. Based on one of HansChristian Andersen’s most beloved stories andthe classic animated film, Disney’s “The LittleMermaid” This fishy fable will capture yourheart with its irresistible songs, including“Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl” and “Part ofYour World.” Tickets available at fxplayers.org.

THURSDAY-SUNDAY/MAY 3-6“Orson the Magnificent.” Thursday-Saturday, 8

p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. at City of Fairfax TheatreCompany, Old Town Hall, 3999 UniversityDrive, Fairfax. Direct from its extended run atthe 2017 Capital Fringe Festival, “Orson theMagnificent” explores a little-known side ofcinema legend Orson Welles: his lifelong love ofmagic. Half magic show and half dramaticbiography. Visit www.fairfaxcitytheatre.org.

FRIDAY/MAY 4Pinko De Mayo. 6-11 p.m. at Brion’s Grille, 8815

Cromwell Drive, Springfield. Pinko De Mayo is afundraiser event for The Breast Cancer Box. TheBreast Cancer Box delivers recovery supplies towomen in hospitals and ships them nationwideat no cost to the patient. Call 703-966-2759 orvisit www.thebreastcancerbox.com.

Viva La Musica. 8-10 p.m. at Richard J. ErnstCommunity Cultural Center Theater, 8333 LittleRiver Turnpike, Annandale. A night incelebration of Hispanic music and culture.Presented by the Reunion Music Society, Inc.

and the NVCC-Annandale Campus, under thedirection of Christopher Johnston. $15, adults;$10, students with ID; free, NOVA students withID and children 12 & younger. Call 703-569-0973 or visit www.eventbrite.com/e/viva-la-musica-celebrating-hispanic-music-culture-tickets-44657057461.

FRIDAY/MAY 4-SATURDAY/MAY 12“Into the Woods.” At West Springfield High

School, 6100 Rolling Road, Door 4, Springfield.Dates/times: Friday, May 4 at 7 p.m.; Saturday,May 5 at 7 p.m.; Sunday, May 6 at 2 p.m.;Thursday, May 10 at 7 p.m.; Friday, May 11 at7 p.m.; and Saturday, May 12 at 7 p.m. Ticketsare $8/students and seniors; $12/adults. Ticketson sale at www.spartantheatre.com/ticketsales.There will be a Spartan Theatre Homecoming onSaturday, May 12, noon-4 p.m. to give tours ofthe new space. Visit www.spartantheatre.com.

SATURDAY/MAY 5Team Audrey Race. 8-11 a.m. at Burke Lake Park,

7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. Proceeds benefitTeam Audrey, a 501(c)3 non-profit based inVienna that provides financial assistance to HLH(a life-threatening immunodeficiency) familiesadmitted to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,financially supports life-saving HLH research, andspreads HLH awareness within the community.There will be a 1-Mile Superhero Fun Run at 8a.m. to kick off the event and the Superhero 5-Mile Race around the lake will begin around8:30. Dress as a favorite superhero. $20-$45. Call540-270-9893 or visit racewire.com/register.php?id=8764.

Civil War Fortifications Tour. 8:30 a.m.-4p.m., meet for a brief orientation at 8 a.m. at theFairfax Station Railroad Museum, 11200 FairfaxStation Road, Fairfax Station. Blake Myers,noted Civil War Historian, will lead a tour of

Civil War fortifications in the Clifton area aswell as Centreville’s Confederate MilitaryRailroad, Saint John’s Church and cemetery,Mount Gilead and several other preserved CivilWar fortifications. $20 for Museum members,$30 for non-members. Visit www.fairfax-station.org/tours.html or call 703-425-9225.

Celebrate Communication. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. atSpringfield Town Center Mall, Springfield.Celebrate Communication is an information fairfor anyone with an interest in or connection tohearing loss. Some 30 vendors will providecurrent technology, resource information, craftsand family friendly events including facepainting and appearance of mascot Yellow Dog.Free event. Near Starbucks. www.nvrc.org. Call703-352-9055 (voice); 571-350-8656 (VP).

Gospel Concert. 5-8 p.m. at Mount CalvaryBaptist Church, 4325 Chain Bridge Road,Fairfax. The Fairfax County Alumnae Chapterwill host a free Gospel Concert in honor of its25th Anniversary. Free. RSVP required [email protected].

Monica Rizzio Concert. 6-7 p.m. at LivingSavior Lutheran Church, 5500 Ox Road, FairfaxStation. Monica Rizzio, Independent MusicAward “Country Album of the Year” nomineeand Radio Crystal Blue “Best New Artist” of theyear will perform live in concert. Familyfriendly. Free, donations accepted. Call 703-618-3074 or visit www.livingsaviorlutheran.org.

Cinco de Mayo Driving Range Social. 7-10p.m. at Burke Lake Golf Complex, 6915 OxRoad, Fairfax Station. This event welcomesgolfers of all levels, adults looking for a fun,social experience and taco enthusiasts alike.Festivities include unlimited range balls, tacobar, soft drinks, water, music, games, contests,prizes, giveaways and more. $30. Advanceregistration required, only 50 people.www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/burke-lake/range-social/may2018.

Casino Night. 7-11 p.m. at Country Club ofFairfax, 5110 Ox Road, Fairfax. A Forever HomeRescue Foundation is holding a casino nightfundraiser. Purchase tickets and bid on auctionitems at one.bidpal.net/afhcasino/welcome.

MONDAY/MAY 7FCAC Golf Tournament. 7 a.m. at Reston

National Golf Club, 11875 Sunrise Valley DriveReston. FCAC will host its 9th Annual SpringTee Golf Tournament. Golf Clinic. Tax-deductible sponsorship opportunities areavailable. Email [email protected] or visitwww.fcacgolf.info/.

WEDNESDAY/MAY 9Investigating the Attempted Assassination

of President Reagan. 7:30-9 p.m. atWorkhouse W-3 Theater, Workhouse ArtsFoundation, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Joinfor a lecture by Thomas Baker, retired FBISpecial Agent, who will share his experiences asone of the first agents on the scene of PresidentReagan’s shooting. Free, donations welcom. Visitwww.workhousearts.org.

FRIDAY/MAY 11Welcome Home Concert 2018. 7 p.m. at Ernst

Theater, Northern Virginia Community College -Annandale, 8333 Little River Turnpike,Annandale. Tickets $10 for adults, studentsenter free. www.vamusicadventures.org/.

Friday Night Campfires. 7:30-9 p.m. at HiddenPond Nature Center is located at 8511 GreeleyBoulevard, Springfield. Learn about animals,insects, plants and more. End the evening withs’mores by the campfire. $8 per person. Call703-451-9588 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-pond.

SATURDAY/MAY 12Eagle Festival. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at Mason Neck

State Park, 7301 High Point Road, Lorton. Liveraptor and reptile shows, environmentalorganization, outdoor recreation clinics, boatingbonanza, eagle cam, photo exhibit, hay andpony rides, food trucks, live music. Pre-openingbird walk at 8 a.m. led by Audubon SocietyNorthern Virginia. Park in the picnic area. Visitwww.masonneckstateparkfriends.org/

Fundraiser and Book Fair. At Barnes and NobleStore, 12193 Fair Lakes Promenade Drive,Fairfax. The Fairfax Station Railroad Museumvolunteers will introduce visitors to life inFairfax Country during the 1800s. Visitwww.fairfax-station.org, or www.facebook.com/FFXSRR. Call 703-425-9225.

Hoedown for Harmony. 7-10 p.m. at AccotinkUnitarian Universalist Church, 10125 LakehavenCourt, Burke. Over 18 $25; 13-18 $15; under 13free. Call 703-968-2971.

Calendar

All-American MusicThe City of Fairfax Band presents an evening of All-American music by Aaron Copland, Paul Creston,

Alfred Reed, John Phlilp Sousa and John Williams, plus a tribute to Stephen Foster featuring the FairfaxSaxophone Quartet. Adding to the celebration is the presentation of the winner of the 2018 City of FairfaxBand Young Artist Competition in performance with the band. Saturday, May 19, 7:30-9 p.m. at FairfaxHigh School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax. $10-$15; students free. Call 571-336-2322 or visitwww.fairfaxband.org.

Photo by CFBA

Fairfax Band

46th Annual Clifton Homes TourGuided tours of four Clifton homes and a silent auction at Clifton Presbyterian Church. Free events

include tours of two historic Clifton churches, a silent auction, wreath sale, and Trinkets and Treasuresat Clifton Presbyterian Church. Proceeds benefit local scholarships and charities through the CliftonCommunity Woman’s Club 501(c)(3) Charitable Trust. Tour tickets: $25-30; free admission to silentauction. Friday, May 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., meets at Clifton Presbyterian Church, 12748 Richards Lane,Clifton. Visit www.cliftoncwc.org.

Photo by Ginny Ax

The Gaffney home is one of four Clifton homes featured on the CliftonHomes Tour for Charity on May 18.


Select yourproducts from

our MobileShowroomand Design

CenterFully Insured &

Class A LicensedSince 1999

Free Estimates703-214-8384

From Now to WOW in 5 Days Guarantee

Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com

Home of the $6,850 Bathroom Remodel

TWO POOR TEACHERSKitchen and Bathroom Remodeling

10% downnothing until the jobis complete for the

past 17 years

10% downnothing until the jobis complete for the

past 17 years

COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP

bbTo Advertise Your

Community of Worship,Call 703-778-9418

Worship Gathering – Sunday 8:45 & 11 AMSunday School 10:10 AM

Sun. Evening – Realtime Worship & Youth 6 PMFamily Night – Wednesday 7:15 PM

Home Life Groups, College/Young AdultMinistries, and Living Free Support Groups

Visit our Website: jccag.org

4650 Shirley Gate Road, FairfaxBill Frasnelli, PASTOR 703-383-1170

“Loving People to Life”

Sports

By Jon Roetman

For The Connection

Robinson startingpitcher Hugh O’Harahad his way with theLake Braddock lineup

early in Monday’s Patriot Districtmatchup, no-hitting the Bruinsthrough the first three innings.

In the top of the fourth, however,Lyle Miller-Green and Jack Darcyreminded onlookers why LakeBraddock is a state championshipcontender.

Miller-Green drove in the game’sfirst run with a double and Darcyfollowed with a three-run homer,propelling the Bruins to an 8-1 vic-tory over the rival Rams on April30 at Robinson Secondary School.

The left-handed O’Hara struckout the side in the second andpitched a 1-2-3 third inning beforerunning into trouble in the fourth.After back-to-back walks, Miller-

Green doubled to deep left beforeDarcy launched a 1-2 pitch overthe right-field fence.

“We made some adjustments thesecond time through” the lineup,Lake Braddock head coach JodyRutherford said. “We’ve done agood job of that this year.”

Darcy said it was a curveball thathe deposited over the fence.

“I definitely think it was a bigmomentum swing,” said Darcy,who will play football at ShepherdUniversity next year.

Darcy drove in a run in the fifthinning with a sacrifice fly. He fin-

ished 1-for-3 with a home run andfour RBIs.

With Lake Braddock leading 5-1 in the top of the seventh, Miller-Green launched a three-run homerof his own. The junior went 2-for-4 with a home run and four RBIs.

Miller-Green, who is committed

to Virginia Tech, also pitched twoinnings of relief. He allowed onerun on one hit and struck out threeafter battling an arm injury ear-lier in the season.

Lake Braddock starting pitcherConnor Glynn earned the victory,tossing five shutout innings.

“Connor did a really good jobpitching,” Miller-Green said.“Since he kept [Robinson score-less], we had his back.”

On Tuesday, the Bruins defeatedFairfax 7-6 to improve their recordto 14-3, including 8-0 in the dis-trict. Lake Braddock will travel toface West Springfield at 6:30 p.m.on Friday, May 4.

Lake Braddock’s Jack Darcy hit a home run and drove in four runs against Robinsonon April 30.

“We made someadjustments thesecond time through”[the lineup] … We’vedone a good job ofthat this year.”

—Lake Braddock head coachJody Rutherford

Glynn pitches fivescoreless inningsfor Bruins.

Darcy, Miller-Green Lead Lake Braddock Past Robinson

Pho

to

by Jo

n R

oetm

an


By Natalia Megas

The Connection

“Monty Python’sSpamalot,” themusical comedyperformed by Ram-

bunctious Theatre Company at RobinsonSecondary High School is a must-see thisweek.

“Spamalot,” the multiple Tony award-winning musical by Eric Idle based on the1975 motion picture “Monty Python and theHoly Grail,” is an irreverent parody of theArthurian legend with a few twists and hi-larious ones at that.

When high school director Megan Thriftchose the school edition of “Spamalot” forRobinson students, she did so with the in-tention of giving everyone an opportunity.

“The show is so full,” she said. “It’s full ofmoments and opportunities for everyone toshine. We have 70 kids in this cast and theyare fully immersed on stage and off.ºThisshow also provided a lot of unique chal-lenges for the 40 student designers andtechnicians to work through collaboratively.And their work truly shines, and in somecases, steals the show.”

Having auditioned 89 high schoolers and32 elementary and middle schoolers, thefinal cast and crew’s two months of rehears-als paid off.

ON OPENING NIGHT, Friday, April 27, apacked theatre gave way to an engagedaudience in non-stop laughter and stand-ing ovations for performances that wowed.

High school actor Daniel Williams’standout performance as King Arthurcoupled with Claire Burton’s soulful andagile vocal range as Lady of the Lake Godivawere the icing on the cake.

But everyone’s perfected performanceimpressed the audience equally as muchfrom the pit orchestra to the makeup andcostume designers to the tap dancers to theFrenchies with their precise accents to theWee Knights Who Say Ni, including itsyoungest cast member, middle school dramadepartment chair Amy Hard’s three year olddaughter.

“I loved the show,” said audience mem-ber Shelly Persil.º“I had a smile on my facethe entire time and I was very impressedwith the talent. The voices were amazingand I especially loved Steven Eckloff asPrince Herbert. Beautiful vocals and a richcharacter filled with emotion.”

Collaboration among students is vital,said Thrift. “I’m in constant awe of thesestudents who choose to work collaborativelyand give of themselves, realizing that theshow is about the ensemble and support-

ing each other.”“That consistent process through rehears-

als and tech is what creates such an incred-ible product that the kids can be proud ofbecause they know they added to it everystep of the way,” said Thrift.

Hard, who only recently began collabo-rating with the high school theatre said itwas a fulfilling experience to see her formermiddle school students perform.

“Ms. Thrift’s leadership and inspiringspirit is the key to these huge productions.She trusts her students, and sets the barhigher than many a professional theatre.The sky is the limit, and her students jump,strive, and reach for what many would view

as impossible ‘for high school.’ She has builta theatre program that is beyond mostpeople’s expectations, except for hers,” saidHard, who choreographed for the produc-tion along with students Izzy Guzzano andMaria Gleason.

“Incorporating local elementary schoolstudents is another way she has reached outto the community to include all,” Hardadded.

Anna Maria Shockey who played Lady ofthe Lake Guinevere said the Monty Pythonquest is a classic nobody forgets.

“There is something so magical about theaudience already loving the story so thatthe actors onstage are actually living and

enjoying the adventure right along withthem. It makes our job easy and fun!” shesaid.

“People should definitely come see theshow because the level of performance is somuch higher than what you’d expect fromyour average high school presentation,” saidAlexa Mitchell, who is a freshman and playedthe viola in the pit orchestra. “I couldn’t stoplaughing the first time I saw it, and every-one should have that experience.”

“SPAMALOT” runs from May 3 to May 5,7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Robinson High School.For tickets, visit https://rambunctious-the-atre-company.ticketleap.com/spamalot/

Rambunctious TheatreCompany at Robinsonpresents ‘MontyPython’s Spamalot.’

Evenings of Laughter and Standing Ovations

Photo by Julia MacInnis

Lady of the Lake Guinevere (Anna Maria Shockey)Photo by Rich Condit

Patsy (Nico Ochao) and King Arthur (Daniel Williams)

Photo by Julia MacInnis

Lady of the Lake Godiva (ClaireBurton) and Sir Galahad (DavidIngle).

Photo by Khuyen Dinh

‘Spamalot’ runs May 3 to May 5, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Robinson HighSchool.

Entertainment


ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA

FOR YOUR TOYOTA

WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’SPERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE

SPECIAL SAVINGS


News

Striking a pose are (from left) ScottDiezman, Jibran Hutchins, David Freemanand Patrick McGuire of the 7th MarylandVolunteer Infantry.

Dastan Kazemi, 2-1/2, of Fairfax, hammersaluminum on an anvil in the blacksmitharea.

Civil War re-enactors withthe 49th VirginiaInfantry are(from left)Robert Shelton,Barry Turner,Dennis Brownand Kurt Jacobs.

Arlington HouseVictorian Dance

Society membersentertain the crowd.

HistoryFrom Page 8

Photos By Bonnie Hobbs

The Connection


Submit civic/community announcements atConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos andartwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, atleast two weeks before event.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDDocents Needed. Sundays 1-4 p.m. at the Fairfax

Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax StationRoad in Fairfax Station. Greet museum visitorsand tell them about the exhibits, the museumand the its railroad and Civil War history. Idealfor those interested in railroads, the Civil Warand Northern Virginia history. Training andorientation provided. Other volunteeropportunities are gardening, publicity andexhibit planning. Call 703-945-7483.

STEM Professionals Needed. Help assist K-12STEM teachers as part of the AmericanAssociation for the Advancement of Science’sSTEM Volunteer Program, stemvolunteers.org,during the 2018-19 school year. In the 2017-18school year, there are 85 volunteers in sixNorthern Virginia school districts. Contact DonRea at 571-551- 2488, or [email protected].

Volunteer Adult Mentors Needed. Help assistthe Department of Family Services’ BeFriendA-Child mentoring program. The mentors provideopportunities for companionship, guidance andsupport to children who have been abused andneglected, or who are at risk of abuse andneglect. Contact Ibrahim Khalil [email protected] or 703-324-4547.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATIONChild turning 5 years old by Sept.30? If so,

contact your child’s school to makearrangements for kindergarten enrollment. Mostschools begin getting information together nowfor parents of incoming kindergartners, andmany host an orientation or open house. Allkindergarten programs are full-day and locatedin FCPS elementary schools. Check your school’swebpage or contact the school directly forspecific enrollment information and dates oforientationor visit www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration.

THURSDAY/MAY 3College Applications Essays. 7-8 p.m. at

Pohick Regional Library, 6450 SydenstrickerRoad, Burke.Don’t be intimidated by collegeapplications essays. Practical strategies andwriting tips will help yours shine, revealingsomething that your grades and test scores can’t.Free. Age 13-Adult. Call 703-644-7333 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/library.

Community Meeting - New Location. 7:30-9p.m. at the Moose Lodge, 9612 Fernedge Lane,Lorton. Learn about the planning and design ofthe new Lorton Community Center. FairfaxCounty staff will present the project and answerquestions from the community. To arrangetranslation service, childcare and transportationfrom the Lorton Library, contact Maria Franco-Nativi at 703-704-6700, TTY 711, [email protected].

FRIDAY-SUNDAY/MAY 4-6Volunteers Needed to Pack Meals. Friday,

9:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.;and Sunday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at Dulles ExpoCenter, 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center,Chantilly. Community members will fight worldhunger by packing food for starving childrenthrough a partnership between New HopeChurch (Lorton) and nonprofit Feed My StarvingChildren (FMSC). 16,000 local volunteers willfeed 9,585 children for a year by packingnutritious ingredients into 583,333 bags in threedays. Visit www.2018foodfight.com.

SATURDAY/MAY 5Workshop for Siblings of Children with

Special Needs. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Key MiddleSchool, 6402 Franconia Road, Springfield. ThisSibshop workshop is for 8-13-year-old siblings ofchildren with special needs enrolled in FairfaxCounty Public Schools. A pizza lunch will beprovided. Visit www.fcps.edu/spedconference2018.

Ramadan Food Pack-Out Sessions. 10 a.m.-2p.m. or 2-6 p.m. at 6820 Commercial Dr., SuiteF, Springfield. Islamic Relief USA will hold itsannual Ramadan Food Box Pack-Out sessionswith volunteers packing boxes with manynonperishable foods. The goal is to create some5,000 packaged meals at each location. All foodwill go to residents in the United States. Visitirusa.org.

Bulletin Board

Today, Sunday, April 22, I am not on any real – or imag-ined, deadline pressure, quite different than my previ-ous column (“You Mean Tomorrow Tuesday?”), pub-lished April 25. This column isn’t due until nine daysfrom now, since my copy editor returns from vacationthat Tuesday. And of course, since there’s no abbrevi-ated/immediate-type deadline, and it’s a relatively quietweekend at home (as opposed to the “triple threat”Tuesday I wrote about last week), Chino, in addition toany of our other four cats, are nowhere to be found.Certainly, they’re all sleeping. I mean, it is 12:30 pm. Infact, as I get up to investigate, Chino is sleeping on thevery same chair he ended up on last week. This weekhowever, when I have minimal deadline pressure, Chinohas minimal Kenny interest. At present, he is not theleast bit involved in the creative process, other than as apoint of reference, that is.And just as Chino is minding his own business – for now,I am able to mind mine and stay on task. It is so mucheasier to do so when my writing pad is not the exactmidpoint and/or crossroads for where Chino is and forwhere he wants to be. Therefore, I have no excuses fornot maintaining a creative flow as pen is put to paper.No cat interruptions or interference whatsoever. Toquote my late father, I have no “encumbrances” – at themoment.More so even than Chino walking right to left across mydesk (and back of course). I just received an email frommy oncologist, yes on the weekend, telling me that mytwo scans taken on Wednesday, April 18, continue toshow “stable.” News, with which I’m extremely fond ofwriting – properly, I can live. As much as I could likewiselive with tumor “shrinkage” as well, I am ALWAYSpleased when I see my new favorite word: “stable,” inany communication from my doctor. For a cancerpatient still undergoing treatment – as I am, or for anycancer patient in remission, a “stable” result is hardly theproblem. The problem is growth and/or movement orappearance elsewhere in the body. (For lung cancerpatients, movement to the brain, which occurs inapproximately 30 percent of patients, is the predomi-nant worry. As such, I get a brain MRI regularly.)So, no scan-result pressure. No post-chemo side-effectpressure. No newspaper and/or deadline pressure. Andno cat-related pressure compounding any of the afore-mentioned pressures. Ergo, the ‘pressure’ is officially off.And when the ‘pressure’ is off, my creativeness is on.Though this may not be the best column I’ve ever writ-ten, it’s certainly been one with the least amount of‘encumbrances.’And speaking of my father, Barry, who died in in 2006,and now my mother, Celia, who died two years later,almost to the day, what I am particularly grateful for isthe timing of my diagnosis/prognosis: it all happenedafter they had died. They never knew. My first symptommanifested four weeks after my widowed mother waslaid to rest. They both know now though as I regularlyupdate them when I visit their gravesites at the ceme-tery. And though the conversations are mostly one-sided, still, it brings me comfort and a peculiar sort of joyto share the details of my treatment and the miscellane-ous pressures I experience, some of which I’ve men-tioned and some of which I haven’t. Many of those myparents knew about, and were often topics of discussion– while they were alive.I was lucky then and I continue to be lucky now. Greatparents before and an amazingly fortunate post-cancer-diagnosis after. Whoever I have to thank: thank you.

You MeanNext WeekTuesday?

Opinion, Page 6 Making History In Fairfax City

Documents

Transcript of Opinion, Page 6 Making History In Fairfax City