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HomeLifeStylePage, 6
McLean, Langley High Artwork, PoetryHigh School Corner, Page 7
Ending Gerrymandering—Not QuiteOpinion, Page 4
Improving Safety And Traffic Flow
News, Page 3
Community meeting at Spring Hill Elementary focused on how to improve safety and traffic flow at nearby intersection of
Spring Hill Road and Lewinsville Road in McLean; Sean Duffy, a resident of McLean and parent of three children, thinks that
intersection can be improved for bicyclists and pedestrians.
online at www.connectionnewspapers.com June 12-18, 2019
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Requested in home 6-13-19
PRSRT STDU.S. Postage
PAIDEaston, MDpermit #322
2 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
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McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
NewsMcLean Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic
703-778-9414 or [email protected]
By Nadezhda Shulga
The Connection
A community meeting was held onWednesday, June 5 at Spring HillElementary School to discuss theplans of the Spring Hill Road and
Lewinsville Road intersection improvement.Residents in attendance raised strong opin-ions and numerous questions:
“The traffic traps us in our homes.”“Cars cut through our neighborhoods.”“We can’t walk to school because of traf-
fic.”“Why no bike lanes?”“Are you planning to keep the trees?”The representatives of the Fairfax County
Department of Transportation (FCDOT)gave detailed responses.
Back in May 2018, when the first publicmeeting was held, the FCDOT engineerspresented four conceptual plans on how theintersection can be improved. The initialconcern of the remodeling project wasmainly focused on safety and traffic flow atthis complicated spot. “The intersection hasa significant skew and experiences peakhour congestion, significant cut-throughtraffic, long queues, and has a documentedcrash history,” FCDOT ex-plained the rationale be-hind the planned change.
THIS TIME, the discus-sions were narroweddown to two revised con-cepts, a conventional in-tersection and offset T-in-tersection. According totheir study, the second op-tion, having two T-inter-sections in close proxim-ity, seems to be safer forpedestrians, bicyclists,and drivers. Will it slowdown traffic because ofdoubled signals and
turns? The study assures that the intersec-tion operations will be equally good in bothdesigns and definitely better than in caseof the no-build option.
Sean Duffy, a resident of Mclean and par-ent of three kids, shared his opinion. “I’dprefer the conventional intersection con-cept,” he said. “I drive through this inter-
section every day. That ‘offset t-intersection’will add time for every single one of us. Iwant to get through this intersection asquickly as possible. I don’t know if they cando something to reduce traffic becausepeople drive through these local roads. But
they definitely can improve it for bicyclistsand pedestrians.”
Denise Balzano also lives in this area. Sheliked the roundabout concept introduced ayear ago and now rejected. “Why have theyrejected the roundabout option? They saidthey are not pushing the second concept,but I think they are. I think people at thismeeting would actually like to say: ‘We don’twant too much traffic; we are mad becausethe people cut through our local neighbor-hoods.’ But I’m realistic. We need to dosomething with this intersection.”
There was no strong agreement amongthe participants on this topic. A no-buildalternative was also an option.
“If you don’t want any of these optionsjust tell us that. We are fine if it is whatyou’re feeling about this project,” DanielStevens, a transportation planner at FCDOT,said.
FCDOT estimates the project cost at $2-3million. Maggie Oi, the senior transporta-tion planner, believes that the project willtake several years to complete. “The studywill take from two to three months. Depend-ing on the findings, we’ll finish the projectin three-to-five years.”
Residents can submit their feedback viathe online survey through June 26, 2019.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SpringHill-Lewinsville
Community discusses the options for how to improveintersection near Spring Hill Elementary?
Improving Safety and Traffic Flow
Community meeting at Spring Hill Elementary focused on how to im-prove safety and traffic flow at nearby intersection of Spring Hill Roadand Lewinsville Road in McLean.
Photos by Nadezhda Shulga/The Connection
Maggie Oi, the senior transportation planner, believes that the projectwill take 3 - 5 years to complete.
Sean Duffy, a resident of Mclean, and parent of three children, thinksthat intersection can be improved for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Daniel Stevens, a transportation planner at FCDOT (at the right), an-swered questions about conventional intersection concept.
Denise Balzano, (left) a local resident, asks whythe roundabout concept was rejected.
4 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Opinion
By John Lovaas
Reston Impact Producer/Host
Virginia is on the vergeof reforming its legisla-tive redistricting pro-cess (for VA Senate,
House of Delegates and US Houseof Representatives) following thenational census every ten years.The antiquated process encour-ages rampant gerrymandering,i.e., deliberate manipulation of district lines tothe advantage of the party in power and in-cumbents. Incumbents are protected; commu-nities are carved up; elections are less competi-tive; partisan gridlock is the norm and com-promise impossible. Legislators select their vot-ers instead of vice versa. Thanks to the work ofthe non-profit One Virginia 2021 and other re-form advocates, the Virginia General Assembly(Senate and House of Delegates) passed a bi-partisan constitutional amendment in 2019 toreform the process for redistricting. If enacted,it could reduce abuses with a more transpar-ent and balanced process. To be enacted, it mustbe passed again, by the newly elected legisla-ture in 2020, and then be approved by Virginiavoters in a statewide referendum in Nov. 2021.The amendment came out of a legislative con-ference. It was a compromise with provisionsfrom several proposals. The amendment cre-ates a redistricting commission composed of 8legislators and 8 citizens (the first citizen in-
volvement ever). Citizens will bebipartisan, with their final selec-tion made by a panel of 5 retiredcircuit court judges from a largepool put forth by the legislature.To pass any new district maps, asupermajority of 6 legislators and6 citizens is required. The Su-preme Court of VA. will decide if
they cannot agree. All commission meetingsand records are open to the public. The legis-lature will vote to approve or not any newmaps, but it cannot amend them.
One Virginia 2021 says categorically thatalthough the amendment does not include allthey proposed, “This will end partisan gerry-mandering in Virginia.” Del. Ken Plum sees itas a “great improvement,” but acknowledgesthat it is “not perfect.” Nevertheless, he says it“need[s] to get on the ballot for voter approvalin time for the 2020…redistricting.”
Others, like Reston’s Bill Penniman, a publicpolicy specialist, and myself believe there areserious shortcomings. For example, we thinkthere is a distinct possibility that the legisla-ture will largely still control the process. Thelegislators on the commission will have an in-terest in protecting their seats and, while di-viding them up may reduce potential for abuses,the temptation for trading among them is a realpossibility. Some partisan gerrymandering
abuses may be tamped down, but stopping in-cumbent protection will be tougher to achieve.
The citizen commissioners will be at a dis-advantage. Lacking technical support and timefor meaningful deliberation may weaken theirpotential for fair drawing of districts. The citi-zen members will be on a tight time scheduleto hold public hearings around the state anddraw maps for 140 General Assembly districtsand 11 congressional districts. This could re-sult in citizen commissioners ending up vot-ing on districts as proposed to them by the leg-islative contingent.
Fixing glitches in the operation of the com-mission will be limited to things that can bedone without having to amend the constitu-tional amendment. For example, the legisla-ture, if there is the will, can level the playingfield for citizen commissioners by providing fortechnical support and providing tools forgreater scrutiny and reporting to the public ofwhat goes on in the commission.
Perhaps we critics overestimate the flaws. Ihope so, because gerrymandering is a major tearin the fabric of our democratic form of govern-ment. In any case, we agree that the proposedamendment may lead to significant improve-ment in drawing fairer federal and state legis-lative districts, certainly enough to justify pro-ceeding. I suggest you let your legislators knowyou want them to vote for the amendment inthe 2020 session. Reform is difficult work, mademore so when it depends on some who perceiveit as not in their interest to succeed.
Constitutional Amendment to EndGerrymandering — Not Quite
Independent Progressive
By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum
State Delegate (D-36)
Virginians are lovers of his-tory, including this Virgin-ian as regular readers of
this column know. This year Vir-ginia is celebrating 400 years sincethe first representative legislativebody met at Jamestown. Virginiais the Mother of Presidents.
One bit of history that continues to loomlarge in Virginia’s psyche these days with aslittle mention as possible from the state apolo-gists is the prevalence of gun violence in theCommonwealth. Twelve years ago the campusof Virginia Tech was the scene of the largestmass murder of its time. While other massmurders have occurred since then, VA Techthrough no direct fault of its own continues tohold the record for the most people killed on acollege campus.
Virginia last week made history again. Vir-ginia Beach was the scene of the biggest massmurder so far this year. A dubious distinctionthat we would least like to have. Virginia lost1,028 people to gun violence in 2017, and asthe Governor described it, that is almost threepeople a day; that is more deaths than thosedue to vehicle accidents.
For Governor Ralph Northamand for me and countless otherVirginians, we long ago have hadenough. As Governor Northamsaid in a press conference which Itook part in last week: “No oneshould go to work, to school, orto church wondering if they willcome home. But that is what our
society has come to, because we fail to act ongun violence. I will be asking for votes andlaws, not thoughts and prayers.”
The laws he is seeking to get passed havebeen introduced in the General Assembly dur-ing its regular sessions without success. In aspecial session that will begin in the comingweeks, only bills intended to end gun violencewill be considered. And the Governor requestedthat “members of the General Assembly engagein an open and transparent debate and thatthe bills brought before the legislature are putto a vote by the entire General Assembly.”
Bills related to gun violence that have beenintroduced in the regular session including mybill to require universal background checkshave been routinely referred by the Speakerof the House to the Militia, Police and PublicSafety Committee where they are sent to a sub-
committee of six members. The members ofthe subcommittee are appointed by theSpeaker of the House, four of whom have per-fect voting records of opposing any gun safetylegislation. My background check bill and theapproximate 15 other bills related to prevent-ing gun violence were defeated on a predict-able vote of 2 to 4 with limited discussion ordebate. Yes, that’s right. Four members whoare buddies with the NRA get to make the de-cision of 140 elected members of the GeneralAssembly.
It is time for Virginia to make historyagain by leading the nation in doing theright thing to end gun violence. Voters,please pay close attention to how yourelected representatives vote.
Special Session on Gun ViolenceCommentary “Four members who
are buddies with theNRA get to make thedecision of 140 electedmembers of the Gen-eral Assembly.”
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McLean
McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
CelebratingFairfax
Fairfax County GovernmentCenter hosted the 38th annualCelebrate Fairfax festival fromJune 7-9. The event was filledwith a wide range of activitiesfor the whole family includingcarnival rides and games, localvendors, and performancesfrom rock bands Better ThanEzra and Smash Mouth.
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Friends (from back left)John Park, Madhi Lin,
Faith Vargas, FatimaVargas, Bao Ho, and
Tanvi Wason, all formFairfax, were not de-
terred by Sunday’s rainto have a good time at
Celebrate Fairfax.
6 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Learn About Adver� sing in the Connec� on
and Digital Op� ons!Adver� sing in the Connec� onAdver� sing in the Connec� on
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HomeLifeStyle
By Marilyn Campbell
The Connection
From adding a burst of boldly colored angu-lar shapes to a sterile, white wall to usingspheres in muted tones to create serenityin a bedroom, abstract art has the ability to
set the tone or change the mood of a space. In spiteof its versatility, melding it tastefully into a home’sdécor can be daunting. Local designers share theirstrategies for aesthetically appealing placement ofthis adaptable art form.
Abstract art can become the center of attention ina space, notes Pamela Harvey of Pamela Harvey In-teriors of Herndon, Va. “One of my favorite ways totransform the look of a room is to add an over-sizedpiece of abstract art to create a dramatic focal point,”she said. “My go-to frame is a simple floater frameto give the art a clean finished look.”
Abstract art works well in pairs allowing the useof smaller scale pieces, advises Amanda Mertins ofPatina Polished Living in Alexandria.
“Don’t be afraid to hang abstract art in gallery style.Be mindful to use like frames and materials,” shesaid. “The use of complementary colors to your spaceis a safe way to incorporate abstract art into yourdécor without allowing it to grab all the attention.”
One of Mertins’ favorite uses of abstract art is pair-ing it with what she describes as its decorative op-posite: traditional décor. “Beautiful wood furniture,silver, crystal lighting and porcelain accessories areperfect as a backdrop for bold prints and abstractpaintings,” she said. “Mirrors are wonderful to useas abstract décor, but always pay attention to whatwill be reflected in the mirror.”
Abstract art work is a versatile accessory and workswell in modern as well as traditional room settings,suggests Harvey. “When choosing a piece I look forsomething that has some of the room’s existing col-ors in it with an opportunity to introduce new colorsinto the space.”
Harvey implemented this technique in the recent
re-design of a client’s living room. “We added a piecethat had blue and white, but introduced a bold pinkto create a dramatic focal point on the back wall.”
Abstract art shouldn’t be limited to neutral spaces,says Annie Elliott of Bossy Color, Interior Design byAnnie Elliott. “If your walls are white and your fur-niture is gray, the effect will be pretty, but cold andmuseum-like, not homey,” she said. “You shouldcomplement a painting’s colors [and] the roomshould feel harmonious. If you put a red sofa undera red and blue painting, the effect may [appear simi-lar too] a hotel lobby.”
From a practical standpoint, Anne Walker of AnneWalker Design believes in mixing media to avoid cre-ating a space that has an overly uniform aesthetic.“Oil paintings, both abstract and traditional, framedphotography, sculpture, textiles, antique botanicals,framed mirrors, antique porcelain china – all of theseart forms can co-exist happily in a single home,” shesaid.
Versatility is one of the traits of abstract art thatMertins appreciates. “This style of art can be verybold and take charge of a room or be soft and fadeinto the background,” she said. “If your room needsa focal point, then abstract art is the way to go.”
“The use of black and white art will make a boldstatement without adding color to a space,” contin-ued Mertins. “Monolithic art produces a solid look,splatter art is happy and upbeat while graceful linedrawings impart a feeling romance and intrigue.Photographic art can be personal, bold and some-times more affordable than painted pieces.”
Works of art that one purchases spontaneously,such as during travels, is often both more meaning-ful and more likely to enhance a home’s décor, saysWalker. “When art is purchased for the entire homeall at once, the result can often feel contrived,” shesaid.
“Surround yourself with art, furnishings and ob-jects that make you feel joyful, and consult a designprofessional if you need help editing or arrangingyour collection,” continued Walker. “I’ve often helpedclients sort through their existing art collections andplace them in just the right spot,” she said. “Movinga piece of art from the wrong location to the rightlocation can not only transform a room, it can trans-form the work of art itself.”
Ideas for decorating withthis adaptable art form.
Versatility of Abstract Art
Designer AnnieElliott designed thisroom adding anabstract painting byartist Karen Silve.
Photo by
Angie Seckinger
McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
On the Subject of AngerBy Annika Harley
if you hold your breath and lis-ten close
and tilt your head to the fall-ing horizon
you can hear the sky collaps-ing
it sounds like inevitabilitythe predetermination of the
tide rushing inbefore the moon beckons it
back from the shore
the clouds are shredded into a mistragged edges melting into the blueawaiting the sun to set them ablaze
it feels like a hesitant hand held over a flamewide eyes watching the dancing sparks thatleap hungrily towards bare flesh
a tremor runs through the nebulaorion wavers and cygnus splintersunder the weight of the wishes of the world below
it’s the wind whistling past your earas you stand upon the overhang knowinghow badly it will sting when you hit the water
High School Corner
“Haikus”By Jack Ellinger
SummerSafe from Autumn’s darkSafe from Winter’s icy coldSummer’s illusion
SummerSummer shows its faceFull and colorful and loudNo more sleeping now
PeaceBirdsong fills the airGentle stream to cool my feetSoft grass is my bed
BlackberriesYoung child’s purple mouthBlackberries perfect pickingSummer’s in full bloom
High School Corner is edited by Langley High School Literary Magazine Editor Anja O’Brien.
“Apple House,” byKirsten Doane
Art and poetry from McLean High SchoolTartan Literary Magazine
Art and poetry from Langley High SchoolKaleidoscope Literary Magazine
The following incidents werereported by the McLean DistrictPolice Station:
JUNE 7LARCENIES:1300 block of Ballantrae Court,
wallet from residence1400 block of Balls Hill Road,
purse from location8300 block of Leesburg Pike, shoes
from business2800 block of Merrilee Drive, gen-
erators from businessJUNE 6
LARCENIES:1900 block of Gallows Road, bicycle
from residence6200 block of Hardy Drive, wallet and
purse from vehicle6700 block of James Lee Street, li-
cense plate from vehicle6200 block of Nelway Drive, wallet
from location6500 block of Tucker Avenue, neck-
lace from vehicleJUNE 4LARCENIES:2600 block of Avenir Place, merchan-
dise from business
1400 block of Ball Hill Road, firearmfrom vehicle
1400 block of Balls Hill Road, laptopcomputer from residence
1900 block of Gallows Road, laptopcomputer from location
8000 block of Le Havre Place, tiresfrom vehicle
2000 block of Peach Orchard Drive,golf cart from location
JUNE 3BURGLARY: 7800 Shreve Road, 5/
31/19, 8:35 p.m. Someone enteredthrough an unlocked window and stolejewelry.
LARCENIES:600 block of Abbott Lane, purse from
vehicle1900 block of Chain Bridge Road,
watches from business8200 block of Crestwood Heights
Drive, merchandise from business2900 block of Eskridge Road, package
from vehicle2900 block of Gallows Road, con-
struction material from vehicle8300 block of Greensboro Drive, gun
from vehicle2000 block of International Drive,
sunglasses from business
2000 block of Kilgore Road, cellphone from location
7800 block of Lee Highway, cellphone and purse from vehicle
8000 block of Leesburg Pike, ringfrom location
8100 block of Strawberry Lane,necklace from location
1200 block of Summit Road, cashfrom residence
1800 block of WestmorelandStreet, purse from vehicle
STOLEN VEHICLES:7300 block of Arlington Boule-
vard, 2000 Honda Accord
Crime Report
the constellations fold in onthemselves
and lightning fractures theheavens
leaving celestial bodies sus-pended over the earth
it’s the pounding of blood inyour head when
you dive too deep under thewaves and you
have to claw for the surface be-fore your lungs burst
crushed stars rain from the sky aboveonto deserts and empty highwaysleaving the air with a smell like something burn-
ing
“Eye,” by Anja O’Brien
8 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Submit entertainment announcements atwww.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. Thedeadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encour-aged.
ONGOINGThe Member of the Wedding. Extended
through June 16 at 1st Stage Theater, 1524Spring Hill Road, Tysons. Adapted from thebeloved novel of the same name, this evocative,poetic coming of age drama explores the painsof youth and the meaning of family. TheMember of the Wedding will run Thursdays,7:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 and 8p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. The run time isapproximately 2 hours with one 15-minuteintermission. Captions and audio descriptionwill be offered for select performances. $15-$39.Visit www.1ststage.org or call 703-854-1856 fortickets.
Oak Marr Farmers’ Market. 8 a.m.-noon atOak Marr RECenter, 3200 Jermantown Road,Oakton. Every Wednesday through Nov. 13, rainor shine. Vendors include produce, meats, eggs,cheeses, pies, cured and smoked meats,popsicles, sorbet, bread, croissants, falafelsandwiches, humus, and pesto. Call 703-281-6501 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets/oak-marr for more.
McLean Farmers Market. Fridays, through Nov.15, 8 a.m.-noon at Lewinsville Park, 1659 ChainBridge Road, McLean. Sixteen local farmers andproducers will sell fresh produce and fruits;meats; breads and pastries; jams; dairy productsand eggs; herbs; flowers, coffee, and more. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets/mclean.
Great Falls Farmers Market. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 778 Walker Road, Great Falls. Music,vendors, fresh produce, fresh prepared food,delightful bakery, spices from around the world,wild-caught fish, grass-fed, free-range meats,organic-fed poultry and eggs. [email protected] for more.
Oakton Farmers Market. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1p.m. at Unity of Fairfax Church, 2854 HunterMill Road, Oakton. Year-round weekly farmersmarket in Oakton. Local produce, meats/eggs,dairy, baked goods, and more. Admission is free.Visit community-foodworks.org.
FRIDAY/JUNE 14Dining with Dorothy. 12:30 p.m. at Olive
Garden, 8133 Leesburg Pike, Vienna. – Aprogram of the Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna. Join with friends or make new ones.Newcomers are always welcome. To reserve aspace contact event chair, Dorothy Flood [email protected].
ESL Playdate Cafe. 1-2 p.m. at Oakton Library,10304 Lynnhaven Place, Oakton. Meet othercaregivers of young children. Adults practiceEnglish while children enjoy play time in thesame room. Birth-5 years with adult. Free. Call703-242-4020 or visitibrarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/5260042.
Summer on the Green: Nowhere Man(acoustic Beatles tribute band). 6:30 p.m.on Vienna’s Town Green. The Summer on theGreen concert series returns to Vienna’s TownGreen Friday nights through Aug. 23. Please seethe text below or the attached release fordetails. Bring chairs and/or blankets. Noalcoholic beverages are permitted. Considerleaving pets at home. In the event of rain, checkthe weather line at 703-255-7842. Learn more atwww.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3997.
Movie Night: Loving. 7:30-10 p.m. at Unity ofFairfax, 2854 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton.Mystical Movie Night, features “Loving.” Themovie tells the story of Richard and MildredLoving, a couple whose arrest for interracialmarriage in 1960s Virginia began a legal battlethat would end with the Supreme Court’shistoric 1967 decision that Virginia’s interracialmarriage law violated the 14th Amendment tothe Constitution. Free. All are welcome. Call703-281-1767 or visit mysticalmovienight-loving.eventbrite.com.
SATURDAY/JUNE 15Spring Fair. 10 am.-2 p.m. at Pleasant Grove,
8641 Lewinsville Road, McLean. Pleasant Groveis holding its community fair, featuring “attictreasures” quality yard sale and antiques, ahomemade bake sale, lunch, an artisan-madequilt raffle, and a Tom Sawyer clean-up day. Allproceeds are donated to Pleasant Grove. Stop by
Friday to drop off donated “attic treasures.” Forinformation, visitwww.HistoricPleasantGrove.org.
Classic Truck and Car Show. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. atFirst Baptist Church of Vienna, 450 Orchard St.,NW, Vienna. The First Baptist Church of Vienna,Va., will celebrate Juneteenth with Classic Truckand Car Show. There will be vendors, foodconcessions, educational presentations, musicalentertainment, African dancers, Africandrummers, video game truck and fun games forthe kids. A Juneteenth Revival takes place onWednesday, June 19. Visit fbcv.org or call 703-938-8525.
SATURDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 15-16Father’s Day Park Programs. This Father’s Day
weekend spend time with fathers andgrandfathers in a program just for them at acounty park.
❖ Golf Tournament. Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon atBurke Lake Golf Course. Kick off the weekendwith the “Father’s Day Golf Tournament.” Two-player teams compete in an 18-hole scrambleformat in three divisions: Father/Jr. 7-12;Father/Jr. 13-17; Father/Adult partner withclosest-to-the-pin contests and prizes for the topthree places in all three divisions. $75 per teamincludes lunch. Call 703-323-1641 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/burke-lake.
❖ Wood Carving. Sunday, noon-4 p.m. at ColvinRun Mill. Celebrate by treating Dad to a freewood carving lesson with the Northern VirginiaCarvers. There is a nominal charge for woodblanks. While visiting the mill, take a tour. Dadsand grandads tour for free on Father’s Day whenaccompanied by a paying child. Call 703-759-2771 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/colvin-run-mill.
❖ “Animal Dads.” Sunday, 1-1:45 at HiddenOaks Nature Center, Annandale. Children age 2-6 can pretend to be a penguin, wolf and beaverdad as they learn about these doting fathers.Participants will meet live animals and make acraft for their favorite father/grandfather. Theprogram at Hidden Oaks Nature Center runsfrom 1 to 1:45 p.m. $8 per child. Children mustbe accompanied by an adult. Call 703-941-1065or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-oaks.
❖ Family Fishing. Sunday, 2-3:30 p.m. and4:30-6 p.m. at Riverbend Park, Great Falls. IfDad likes to fish, register for the “Father’s DayFamily Fishing” program at Riverbend Park.Supplies and equipment will be provided, orbring a rod and reel. Pick up some fishing tips.All fish caught will be released. Designed forparticipants age 4-adult. $12 per person. Call703-759-9018 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.
❖ Father’s Day Campfire. Sunday, 6-7 p.m. atEllanor C. Lawrence Park, Chantilly. Wrap upthe day with the “Father’s Day Campfire.” Learnabout some of nature’s best fathers, take a hikenear a stream and eat s’mores. Of course, momsare invited, too. $8 per person. Children must be
accompanied by a registered adult. Call 703-631-0013 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/eclawrence.
SUNDAY/JUNE 16Breakfast Buffet. 8 a.m.-noon at Vienna
American Legion Post 180, 330 Center St., N.Vienna. Get omelets, scrambled eggs, blueberrypancakes, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravyand more. Adults $10, children 12 and under$4. Call 703-938-6580.
Summer Concerts: Alphabet Rockers. 5 p.m.in the gazebo of McLean Central Park, 1468Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean. The Alden at theMcLean Community Center is again sponsoringfree summer concerts in the gazebo of McLeanCentral Park featuring a mix of musical genresGet moving to music that moves you. Call 703-790-0123 or visit www.aldentheatre.org.
Concerts on the Green: Wes Tucker & TheSkillets. 6-8 p.m. on the Great Falls VillageCentre Green. Bring picnic baskets, chairs andblankets for an evening of live music. Free. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.
WEDNESDAY/JUNE 19Live Music: Lily Neill & Clive Carroll. 7:30
p.m. at Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. E.,Vienna. Harpist Lily Neill and guitarist CliveCarroll make their debut concert as a duo atJammin Java. $20-$25. Visitwww.jamminjava.com.
THURSDAY/JUNE 20Nottoway Nights: Moonshine Society. 7:30
p.m. at Nottoway Park, 9537 Courthouse Road,Vienna. Thursday evenings, June 20-Aug. 22(except July 4). Bring a picnic and a blanket orchair. For last minute weather cancellations call703-324-7469 one hour prior to the programstart time.
Live Music: Maggie Rose. 7:30 p.m. at WolfTrap, Vienna. Opening for Trampled By Turtlesand Deer Tick. $30. Visitwww.maggierosemusic.com orwww.wolftrap.org.
FRIDAY/JUNE 21White Elephant Bingo & Ice Cream Social.
1:30-3:30 p.m. at Vienna Community Center,129 Cherry St SE, Vienna. Adults 50+ meet upfor an afternoon of White Elephant Bingo and anIce Cream Social. Enjoy a traditional bingogame in a friendly atmosphere and win whiteelephant prizes. Bingo cards are $2 for 2. Payat door. Please bring a white elephant item ingood condition to donate to the prize table. Callthe Shepherd’s Center at 703-281-0538 toregister or with questions.
Summer on the Green: Chillin’ on Church:The Deja Gruv Band (R&B, funk, andsoul). 6:30 p.m. on Vienna’s Town Green. TheSummer on the Green concert series returns toVienna’s Town Green Friday nights through Aug.
23. Please see the text below or the attachedrelease for details. Bring chairs and/or blankets.No alcoholic beverages are permitted. Considerleaving pets at home. In the event of rain, checkthe weather line at 703-255-7842. Learn more atwww.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3997.
SATURDAY/JUNE 22AAUW McLean Branch Used Book
Collection. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. SunTrust Bank, 515Maple Ave. East, Vienna. Used books, CDs,DVDs, software, children’s books, records, andrecent textbooks. No encyclopedias, VHS oraudiotapes. The Book Sale will be held on Sept.13-15 at the McLean Community Center, 1234Ingleside Ave., McLean. Proceeds benefitscholarships for women. Questions, [email protected], or 703-527-4206.
SUNDAY/JUNE 23Summer Concerts: Jazzy Ash and the
Leaping Lizards. 5 p.m. in the gazebo ofMcLean Central Park, 1468 Dolley MadisonBlvd., McLean. The Alden at the McLeanCommunity Center is again sponsoring freesummer concerts in the gazebo of McLeanCentral Park featuring a mix of musical genresGet moving to music that moves you. Call 703-790-0123 or visit www.aldentheatre.org.
Concerts on the Green: Mars Rodeo. 6-8 p.m.on the Great Falls Village Centre Green. Bringpicnic baskets, chairs and blankets for anevening of live music. Free. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.
THURSDAY/JUNE 27Nottoway Nights: City of Fairfax Band ‘Alte
Kameraden’ (Music of Germany). 7:30p.m. at Nottoway Park, 9537 Courthouse Road,Vienna. Thursday evenings, June 20-Aug. 22(except July 4). Bring a picnic and a blanket orchair. For last minute weather cancellations call703-324-7469 one hour prior to the programstart time.
FRIDAY/JUNE 28Ants Ants Ants. 10:30 a.m. at Wolf Trap
Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, 1551 TrapRoad, Vienna. With their optimistic lyrics andinnovative instrumentation, Ants Ants Antsoffers an invitation into that golden childhoodwe always dreamed of having and creating forthe ones we love. Ages 2 and older. $10. Visitwww.wolftrap.org.
Summer on the Green: Sarah BennetSwanner. 6:30 p.m. on Vienna’s Town Green.The Summer on the Green concert series returnsto Vienna’s Town Green Friday nights throughAug. 23. Please see the text below or theattached release for details. Bring chairs and/orblankets. No alcoholic beverages are permitted.Consider leaving pets at home. In the event ofrain, check the weather line at 703-255-7842.Learn more at www.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3997.
SATURDAY/JUNE 29July 4th in June. All day at Lake Fairfax Park,
1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston. Get thenation’s birthday party started early. The parkopens at dawn and the fun continues until thelast fireworks disappear from the sky after dark.The water park is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Therewill be live music with Modern Vintage and theU.S. Navy Band Commodores from 3:30-9 p.m.Food vendors will be on hand throughout theday. Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.. The parkgenerally closes to new arrivals around 8:45p.m. Walk or bike to the park and admission isfree. There is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle.The rain date Sunday, June 30. Call 703-471-5414 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-fairfax.
Intro Canoeing Tour. 5:30-7:30 p.m. atRiverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills S., GreatFalls.Come and experience the upper Potomac’sbeautiful scenery and wildlife from the water.Start with an introduction to canoeing basicsand then head out onto the river with aninstructor. This is not a whitewater tour and isgood for canoeing beginners. There will be threepeople per canoe and paddling and safety gear isprovided. $41 per person. For participants age16 to adult and will be canceled in the event ofinclement weather or hazardous riverconditions. Call 703-759-9018 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.
Entertainment
Ants Ants AntsWith their optimistic lyrics and innovative instrumentation, Ants Ants Ants offers an invitation into
that golden childhood we always dreamed of having and creating for the ones we love. Johnny Clayand Dave Gulick, the founding indie rock duo behind Ants Ants Ants, will perform with a full band. Ages2 and older. Friday, June 28, 10:30 a.m. at Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, 1551 Trap Road,Vienna. $10. Visit www.wolftrap.org.
McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 ❖ 9www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
PRESIDENTIAL JOURNEYS, Visiting the homes of eight presidents in Ohio July 22-27 ................................................................................. $1,440
Includes Motorcoach transportation from McLean Metro, Vienna & Rockville, 5 nights hotel, Daily Breakfast, 4 dinners & 2 lunches, Sightseeing &
commentary on presidents & their wives, Gratuities, taxes & porterage. Call for details or visit our website.
WOLF SANCTUARY, RYERRS FARM FOR AGED HORSED, YUENGLING BREWERY & COLEBROOKDALE RAILROAD, ALL IN PA!
Sept. 12-13 .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... $349
Includes: Motorcoach from Vienna, Rockville & McLean Metro, Overnight hotel in Reading, All sightseeing & admissions, Breakfast & Dinner,
Refreshments on coach. Call for details.
RHONE & SAONE RIVER CRUISE, Nov. 1-9 ........................................................................................................................................................ $4,295
Includes: Air from Dulles, Philadelphia, JFK or Newark, 7-nights cruise on Scenic Luxury riverboat, All meals onboard, all Shore excursions with
headsets, Beverages. To include minibars, beer & wine. Excellent Price! Call for details.
703.242-2204 1-800-556-8646100 East Street SE, Suite 202 • Vienna, Virginia 22180
Please visit our Web site at: www.shillelaghtravelclub.com for a listing of all our upcoming trips and socials.
SHILLELAGHS TRAVEL CLUB
Celebratingour 54th
Anniversary
News
See Woman’s Club, Page 10
By Steve Hibbard
The Connection
The New Dominion Woman’s Club(NDWC) presented checks for $4,000each to four of its 2018-2019 club yearbeneficiaries on Monday, June 10, 2019,
at member Kathleen Manning’s residence, whereguests dined on catered cuisine from Moby Dick.Those organizations receiving funds included theFalls Church McLean Children’s Center, McLeanProject for the Arts, Safe Community Coalition andShare, Inc. of McLean.
According to NDWC President Jennifer Salopek:“We feel like we make an enormous impact on ourcommunity, especially given the size of our mem-bership; we have 66 members and we have raisednearly $25,000 this year — even without our Springfundraiser, so we’re enormously proud of that. It’ssomething we’re very proud of as we enter our 52nd
year.”She said this year’s club fundraisers included a wine
Presents $4,000 checksto four beneficiaries inthe community.
New Dominion Woman’s Club Gives Back
Members of the New Dominion Woman’s Club for 2019.Pho
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The 2018-2019 beneficiaries of the NewDominion Woman’s Club are representa-tives from The Falls Church McLeanChildren’s Center; McLean Project for theArts; Safe Community Coalition; andShare, Inc.
10 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
tasting at Chain Bridge Cellars; Giving Tuesday, anafter-Thanksgiving event at the Preppy Pink Pony;Arts Night Out at McLean Project for the Arts; andalso, they were selected as the beneficiary for therally for a community charity tennis event at McLeanRacquet and Health Club.
“Another reason we were able to give so gener-ously this year is because of the enormous supportof our corporate donors. Our lead donor is TD Bank,so we are very grateful to them for their generosityand support,” she said. “Even in the absence of ourusual Spring Fashion Show fundraiser, we were stillable to give the same amount that we did last year,especially thanks to the support of those corporatesponsors.”
ACCORDING TO RECIPIENT Elizabeth Hale,President, Safe Community Coalition: “The SafeCommunity Coalition is thrilled to receive funds onceagain from the New Dominion Woman’s Club to sup-port our programs and events fostering mental healthand wellness and our youth across McLean. Theirongoing support means so much to our financialsecurity and allows us to have events free of charge.”
She said the 25-year-old organization based inMcLean supports student health and wellness; men-tal health; putting on events for sixth-graders all theway up to college kids and parents that are focusedon how to manage stress and anxiety.
Added recipient Deb Bissen, Director of Commu-nications and Development at McLean Project forthe Arts: “We are so appreciative as always of theNew Dominion Woman’s Club and their strong sup-port to so many community organizations in theMcLean area. They’ve been long-term supporters ofMcLean Project for the Arts, both financially and thehard work they do in volunteering with some of ourevents, especially with our MPArtFest every fall inMcLean Central Park. They’ve been wonderful inhelping create the Children’s Walk and we can’tthank them enough for all of the support over theyears.”
Nancy Sausser, MPA Curator and Exhibitions Di-rector, said the mission is to exhibit the work of con-temporary artists from the mid-Atlantic region andalso to educate the public about contemporary art.They have many classes; run MPArtFest and have atleast 16 exhibits a year, changing every 6-8 weeks,and work with living artists from the area.
New Dominion Woman’s Club President Jennifer Salopek leads the meeting.
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From Page 9
Woman’s Club Donates to Area Groups
Added recipient Crystal Jean, Executive Director,Falls Church McLean Children’s Center: “We’re hon-ored to be a recipient of the New Dominion Woman’sClub this year. Not only do they contribute financiallybut we’re very fortunate that they have a hands-onapproach as well. So, they come to our center twicea year as part of the Reading is Fundamental Pro-gram and actually spend time with our children sothey can see where their dollars end up going, andthe support they provide, what it has done to betterthe lives of the children that we serve.”
She added: “We are a child-care center that serveslow-income working families. So, without our ser-vices, many of the families below 250 percent of thepoverty line would not have the ability to afford qual-ity child care.”
RECIPIENT Donald Frickel, President of Share, Inc.,added: “We are particularly excited about receivingfunds from the New Dominion Woman’s Club at thistime of the year because the Fallstead has recentlyopened on Lewinsville Road. It has added potentially80 clients to our client rolls; we’ve already had a lotof interaction with many of them. They’re starting tocome to the food and clothing room. They’re alsomaking requests for financial help. That’s a huge boostin our clientele so we’re happy to have these extrafunds this time of year to help us deal with that ex-pansion in demand.”
(From left): NDWC President JenniferSalopek with funds recipient DonaldFrickel, President of Share, Inc.; JessicaFaust, VP Resource Allocation; and KimMarinus, VP of Ways and Means.
McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 ❖ 11www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.
By KENNETH B. LOURIE
The least of it was my pre-immunotherapy lab work on Wednesday and then my actual immuno-therapy infusion on Friday. The most of it was my navigating websites and trying to properly complete applications/enrollment forms for the Virginia Un-employment Commission and the Maryland Health Connection.
For a man (me) who fancies himself your go-to-guy for sports and chocolate, getting immersed in policies and procedures for government agencies
– with our (my wife, Dina and I) respective lives somewhat dependent on the time-sensitive comple-tion of said documents, was akin to sending yours truly out to sing the National Anthem at the next Nationals’ game. It would be a disaster of titanic proportions (fortunately without the loss of life).
As it has been my entire life, I can’t sing any more than I can now compute.
As I sit and write this week’s column, having barely survived the excruciating ordeal of this past
Monday – I now have next week to look forward to. And what garden path am I leading you down?
Another week of time-sensitive/computer-centric tasks, of course. Once again I will be sitting at my computer attempting to navigate through another government web site and this time a private sector website, as I try to sign up for Medicare effective Sept. 1, as well as the associated but independent
in the coverage gaps that I, as a former insurance broker, know exist.
Granted, with these two tasks I do have some time. I just hope I have the wherewithal.
This past week took a toll emotionally. And I’m not sure if I really want to climb that emotional mountain yet again.
This week’s tasks are not any easier. Shooting
easier said than impossibly done. For a man who knows his limitations, the week ahead will likely test those limitations.
But if not me, then who? Unfortunately, it has to be me. The other party with whom I share a long-standing arrangement has a skill set unsuited to and incompatible with, computers, and the kind of searching/deciphering/hunting and pecking on web sites required for completion of this week’s tasks.
Moreover, if I enlist her support or insist on her participation, my present and future will not be enhanced by the experience. She may be a resource in many other respects, but in this respect, she’s not.
And I can respect that. Give me a little credit, I’ve learned something in our 40 years together.
That being said – and understood, I think I’ll take the weekend off from such endeavors and prepare myself for next week as I consider the challenges which lie ahead.
in the progress I made this past week. I’ve nearly completed both tasks, tasks which initially seemed almost insurmountable. However, if it were not for the amazingly patient, courteous and knowl-edgeable assistance I received from the call centers associated with these sites, I’d still be stumbling and stammering (literally) into oblivion.
But as of this past Friday, I’ve nearly reached the promised land. (“I can see Russia from my house.”)
I can only imagine the satisfaction I’ll feel next Friday when I anticipate I will have completed two more of these tedious tasks and secured yet another
Four huge hurdles overcome, but still with a few more yet to go: probably applying for a reverse mortgage and possibly researching a kitchen renovation.
Wait a second. Don’t I have lung cancer? Jeez, I almost forgot.
With all this other stuff going on, the cancer compartment stayed closed. Now it’s open again. Damn, now I really have problems.
What A Week!Submit civic/community announcements at
ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos andartwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, atleast two weeks before event.
FRIDAY/JUNE 14Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training.
9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Pennino GovernmentBuilding (Rooms 200 + 206), 12011Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. JoinSCAN for a Stewards of Children Child SexualAbuse Prevention Training. As a Partner inPrevention with Darkness to Light, SCAN offersthis evidence-informed training to empoweradults to take action to protect the children intheir lives. Free; space is limited. Register atscanD2Lfairfax.eventbrite.com.
Application Deadline: Fire Academy. TheFairfax County Fire and Rescue Departmentisnow accepting applications for its Girls Fire andRescue Academy summer camp, which will takeplace July 11-13, 2019. The Academy is open tofemale students who will be in grades 7-12 inthe upcoming 2019-2020 school year.Participants must be a Fairfax County resident.Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire-ems.
WEDNESDAY/JUNE 19Juneteenth Revival. 6 p.m., dinner; 7 p.m.,
program at First Baptist Church of Vienna, 450Orchard St., NW, Vienna. The program willfeature music by the Juneteenth CommunityChoir. Guest speaker, Bishop McKissick, Jr., isthe Senior Pastor of the Bethel BaptistInstitutional Church in Jacksonville. Visitfbcv.org or call 703-938-8525.
Vienna Woman’s Club Meeting. 7-9 p.m. atVienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St. SE,Vienna. Vienna Woman’s Club invitesprospective members to its open membershipmeeting with a guest speaker on a commoninterest subject. Visitwww.ViennaWomansClub.org for more.
THURSDAY/JUNE 20Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training.
9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Pennino GovernmentBuilding. See June 14, above.
Caregivers Support Group. 10-11:30 a.m. atUUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregation ofFairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter MillRoad, Oakton. For caregivers to adult familymembers with dementia. First and thirdThursdays of every month. Hosted by Shepherd’sCenter of Oakton-Vienna, scov.org. Contactfacilitator Jack Tarr at 703-821-6838 [email protected].
Memory Cafe. 2-4 p.m. at Andrew Chapel UnitedMethodist Church, 1301 Trap Road, Vienna.Connect with others living with loved ones withdementia. Helping those with dementia andtheir caregivers find fun, resources and “family.”Email Carol Blackwell at [email protected] orcall at 571-236-6933.
MONDAY-FRIDAY/JUNE 24-28Hogwarts Vacation Bible School. Monday-
Friday, June 24-28 at Holy Comforter. Allchildren 5-11 years old are invited to participatein a summer camp experience which exploresthe Christian themes and lessons in the HarryPotter stories. Holy Comforter is magicallyconverted into Hogwarts School where childrenattend “classes” taught by favorite professorsincluding Prof. McGonagall, Snape, Hooch, andBinns. Teenage prefects lead age level groups totheir activities and all students share a closingsnack in the Great Hall. Morning Session: 9a.m.-noon; afternoon session: 1:30-4:30 p.m.Download registration forms atwww.holycomforter.com.
FRIDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 28-30Women’s Summit. Tysons McLean Hilton, 7920
Jones Branch Drive, McLean. Speakers andworkshops cover women in politics, education,equality, diversity, environment, healthcare,racial and social justice, reproductive freedom,public safety, rural economy, voting rights, andfamily friendly economy. $139. Visitnetworknova.org for more.
THURSDAY/AUG. 1Champions of Character Nomination
Deadline. The nomination process for the 2019annual Fairfax County Champions of CharacterAwards are underway. Honor youth, coachesand parents for extraordinary service inpursuing victory with honor in athletics. Anyonecan nominate a player, coach or parent forconsideration of a Champions of CharacterAward. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/athletics/champions-of-character for more.
Bulletin
12 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
