Springfield - The Connection Newspapersconnectionarchives.com/PDF/2017/042617/Springfield.pdf · Springfield ranconia Kingstowne Newington Education&Activities Summer Education Camps

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Springfield Connection ● April 2017 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 1

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Board ApprovesBudget Mark-UpNews, Page 5

West Springfield RotaryHonors EducatorsNews, Page 4

Right, Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee) with hisdistrict’s Community Champion Michel Margosis, a

Holocaust survivor, who speaks about his experiencesand served as Lee District appointee on the Human

Rights Commission for more than a decade.

Seeds of ChangeNews, Page 3

Seeds of ChangeNews, Page 3

2 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 27 - May 3, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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By Tim Peterson

The Connection

Volunteer Fairfax marked an his-toric 25th annual Service Awardsceremony April 21 with 193 in-dividual and group nominations.

Nominees and award-winners were recog-nized at the Waterford at Springfield fortheir hundreds of hours volunteering.

Board of Supervisors Chairman SharonBulova said the trick of putting people whowant to help into action is harnessing themin a given direction. “That is the work ofVolunteer Fairfax,” Bulova said.

Bulova read a proclamation from the su-pervisors declaring April 21, 2017 an offi-cial day to recognize all volunteers aroundFairfax County. “Each one of our 2017 nomi-nees has strengthened the community withtheir selfless service and we honor themtoday,” Volunteer Fairfax CEO Elise NeilBengtson said in a statement. “May theirservice inspire others to join the networkof strong community roots.”

Senior, family youth and group volunteerswere recognized, as well as CommunityChampions selected by each magisterialdistrict supervisor.

Springfield resident Marie Monsen wonthe Volunteer Fairfax Lifetime Achievementaward.

Monsen co-founded the Interfaith Com-munities for Dialogue after September 11,2001 and for years has volunteered withthe Annandale Christian Community forAction. Along with Rebuilding Together,they help low-income homeowners in theAnnandale, Lincolnia, Bailey’s Crossroadsand Culmore areas of Fairfax County.

Monsen said giving back was just some-thing she learned from the good values ofher Scandinavian immigrant parents, beinga child of the 1960s, as well as her faith.

She said she was attracted to the diver-sity in Fairfax County, and appreciates itstradition of government agencies workingtogether with people. Monsen added it wasexhilarating to “see so many people doingso many things.”

Visit www.volunteerfairfax.org.

Seeds of Change Volunteer Fairfax honors service award-winnersat 25th annual ceremony.

Members of the Fairfax County Community Emergency Response Teamreceive the Volunteer Fairfax Service award for Fairfax County Govern-ment Volunteer Program. There are 27 active CERT teams that have beenset up around the county, establishing relationships with local fire andpolice stations, as well as faith organizations, for emergency situations.

Photos by Tim Peterson/The Connection

From left, state Sen. George Barker (D-39) congratulates CommunityChampions John Pellegrin (Springfield District) and Michel Margosis(Lee District) and the 25th annual Volunteer Fairfax Service Awards.

News

Left, Supervisor John Cook (R-Braddock) with his district’s Commu-nity Champion David Curtis. As chairof the Truro Homes Association,Curtis spearheaded a restorationproject for Turkey Run Stream.

Right, Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee) with his district’s CommunityChampion Michel Margosis (left).Margosis is a Holocaust survivor,speaks about his experiences andserved as Lee District appointee onthe Human Rights Commission formore than a decade.

Right, Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield) with his district’sCommunity Champion JohnPellegrin (left). Pellegrin has beena volunteer with the Rotary Club ofWest Springfield for the past 16years, during the latest of which heput in more than 500 hours withthe organization that embodies theslogan “Service above Self.”

From left, Sharon Bulova presentsthe Volunteer Fairfax Serviceaward for Family Volunteer toShayla and Samantha Young ofSpringfield. The Youngs volunteerwith the Lorton Community ActionCenter, which serves more than300 families per week with foodand other basic needs, as well asbringing food and other items todonate themselves.

Center, Marie Monsen of Spring-field, receives the Volunteer FairfaxService Lifetime Achievementaward. Monsen co-founded theInterfaith Communities for Dia-logue after September 11, 2001and for years has volunteered withthe Annandale Christian Commu-nity for Action, which, togetherwith Rebuilding Together, helpslow-income homeowners in theAnnandale, Lincolnia, Bailey’sCrossroads and Culmore areas ofFairfax County.

Left, Board of Supervisors chair-man Sharon Bulova honors FairfaxCounty Community Champion JohnWood. Accepting for Wood was KimLuckabaugh (right) from the Cityof Fairfax. Wood owns the 29Diner, where he hosts communityactivities and fundraisers, includ-ing for domestic violence aware-ness, the Meals Tax campaign, firstresponders and local youth.


News

FACETS Brings Together Area

Leaders, Addresses Poverty IssuesMore than 1,000 people are homeless in Fairfax County. Lead-

ers from around the region gathered to learn more about theissue from FACETS, a nonprofit that opens the doors to peoplesuffering the effects of poverty in Fairfax.By Tim Peterson

The Connection

Rotary Club members prize the embodi-ment of the slogan “service above self.”On April 19, members of the Rotary Clubof West Springfield recognized three

teachers, individuals serving children and youngadults, who they and their principals decided havegone well beyond the requirements of the profes-sion in order to help their students succeed.

Todd Austin, a counselor at Ravensworth Elemen-tary School, was the first recognized. His principalRoxanne Salata said Austin was a mentor, teacherand friend to the school’s students.

“He puts children first, above all else,” Salata said.Dave Thomas, principal of Lake Braddock Second-

ary School, spoke on two meritorious teacher award-winners — one from his middle school and one fromhigh school.

Thomas said his two teachers “are very similar:They’re kind and patient, and understand what mo-tivates. They make great connections.”

David Wickham teaches seventh grade Social Stud-

ies, now in his 11th year at the school. He alsocoaches junior varsity soccer at the school.

In living out the Rotarians’ “service above self,”Thomas said Wickham’s “countless hours go aboveand beyond.”

Eleventh and 12th grade English Special Educa-tion teacher at Lake Braddock Jennifer Celko wasthe final award-winner.

Thomas said their number-one goal as educatorsis to make sure each student graduates from highschool, and in that regard, Celko has one of the hard-est jobs in Fairfax County Public Schools.

“My students inspire me every day,” Celko said.“Some work harder than I do, and work jobs them-selves, help with younger brothers or sisters.”

Celko told the anecdote of a young female studentwho, upon receiving her Standards of Learning test-ing scores results, thanked her teacher for believingin her.

“I can’t imagine not believing in her,” Celko said.“She’s an amazing student.”

The awards ceremony was held at the SpringfieldGolf and Country Club.

Visit rotaryofwestspringfield.org.

West Springfield RotaryHonors Educators

From left, Rotarian Mike Becraft, LakeBraddock Secondary School teacher DavidWickham, club president Estela Landerosand Lake Braddock Principal Dave Thomas.

From left, Rotarian Mike Becraft, LakeBraddock Special Education teacher Jenni-fer Celko, club president Estela Landerosand Lake Braddock principal Dave Thomas.

From left,Rotarian Mike

Becraft,Ravensworth

ElementarySchool coun-

selor ToddAustin, club

presidentEstela

Landeros andRavensworth

principalRoxanne

Salata.Photos by

Tim Peterson/

The Connection

Delegates Jennifer Boysko (D-86) and KathleenMurphy (D-34), Peter Everett of Blankingship & Keithand Gregory Brandon with Fairfax County AdvisorySocial Services Board.

FACETS Board Chair Bob Grimmett with Russ Rowzie,Owner of Trimark Corporation

Joe Fay, FACETS Executive Director, with Don Harrisof Burke United Methodist Church


By Andrea Worker

The Connection

By an 8-2 vote, the Fairfax CountyBoard of Supervisors voted onTuesday, April 25, to approve theFY 2018 Budget Mark-up. Al-

though the formal adoption of next year’sbudget won’t take place until May 2, his-torically the board does not make changesto the package after the mark-up is held.

“I’m pleased that the majority of my col-leagues were able to support a budget pack-age that preserves vital county and schoolprogramming,” said Supervisor Jeff McKay(D-Lee), who chaired the Budget Commit-tee. For the record, McKay read the county’sThird Quarter FY 2017 Review, the Mark-Up recommendations, the board’s BudgetGuidance for FY 2018 and FY 2019, andthe FY 2018 – FY 2022 Capital Improve-ment Program (CIP) before the supervisorsdiscussed each portion of the budget pro-cess and cast their votes.

The final draft is a balanced budget. Su-pervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield) saidthat while it does not provide for “real taxrelief,” the budget still represents a “victoryfor taxpayers” since it holds the propertytax rate at the current level of $1.13 per$100 of assessed value, although somehomeowners will see a slight increase (0.7percent for the average taxpayer) due toincreases in property values.

THE AMENDMENTS to the FY 2018 Ad-vertised Budget that was originally pre-sented by County Executive Ed Long on Feb.14, restored funding to several human ser-vices programs that had been shifted to the“unfunded for 2018” column, including theInsight Memory Care program that providesday care services for county residents suf-fering from mid-late stage dementia. TheCommunity Readiness and Support Pro-gram, under the umbrella of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board,

was also given a reprieve, and its four staffpositions re-instated to continue offering anintensive, low ratio-to-client service to thosewith a variety of mentalhealth and developmentaldisability issues.

There was general consen-sus that finding at least par-tial funding to launch PhaseII of the Diversion First Pro-gram, which seeks to providetreatment instead of incar-ceration for people with men-tal health or developmentaldisability issues who comeinto contact with law enforce-ment for low-level offenses,was a real achievement in theapproved Budget Mark-up. The programsucceeded in diverting 375 individuals frompotential arrest in its first year.

WHEN THE MOTION to approve theMark-up was called for, the dissenting voteswere cast by supervisors Dan Storck (D-Mount Vernon) and Kathy Smith (D-Sully).

“This budget will not meet our needs,”said Smith, who also questioned whetherthe budget process was “working the wayit should.”

Among her concerns is the gap between

Several of the supervisors commented onthe county’s limited options for raising rev-enue, and in a statement released after themeeting, McKay wrote: “We will again havea dialogue with Richmond … state law lim-its our revenue sources, we are left withproperty taxes as our main resource. Thisis not sustainable.”

Further discussion surrounded the pro-posed Budget Guidance, which serves as atemplate for the county executive and staffin the development of the next budget andthe financial plans for years to come. In-cluded for consideration and for sourcing“fiscally-constrained funding options” are:addressing the growing opioid abuse cri-sis, tax relief for spouses of first respond-ers killed in the line of duty, the procure-ment and implementation of a pre-notifi-cation 9-1-1 data repository system, fur-ther Public Safety staffing, county em-ployee pay and pension review, and howto deal with the looming increases ex-pected for funding the county’s commit-ment to the Metro system.

The motion to adopt the Budget Guidanceas written passedunanimously. With onebudget not yet officiallyadopted, the supervi-sors seemed eager tobegin their work on theissues set forth in theBudget Guidance, withSupervisor Penny Gross(D-Mason) asking staffto begin looking for ad-ditional meeting timeslots in order to tacklethe working agenda.

“Looking ahead,”said Bulova, “the FY 2019 budget will posenew challenges, including potential federalcut backs and sequestration … As always,Fairfax County will remain vigilant to anyfuture changes that may impact the localbudget in the upcoming fiscal year.”

SUMMARIES of the documents discussedand approved at the Budget Mark-up ses-sion are available on the county’s website,www.fairfaxcounty.gov. The meeting, whichwas streamed live, is archived and can bewatched via the website.

Photo by Andrea Worker/The Connection

Fairfax County Board Chairman Sharon Bulova and Budget CommitteeChair Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee).

Final adoption of thecounty budget takesplace on May 2.

News

Board Approves Budget Mark-Up with 8-2 Vote

the Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS)financial ask for FY 2018 and what thecounty transferred. Smith, who served on

the School Board before her election to theBoard of Supervisors, says the gap will meaneven more teacher vacancies and largerclasses. The FCPS did receive an additional$1.7 million during the mark-up process,resulting in an operating transfer increaseof 2.79 percent over last year.

Storck thinks “we’re making a mistake”with this budget, calling for a plan that fo-cuses more on investments that will growrevenues. Storck said Fairfax County “keepsfunding the success of the rest of the stateat the expense of our own.”

“Looking ahead, the FY 2019 budget will pose

new challenges, including potential federal

cut backs and sequestration … As always,

Fairfax County will remain vigilant to any

future changes that may impact the local

budget in the upcoming fiscal year.”— Sharon Bulova, Fairfax County Board Chairman


Opinion

By Sharon Strauchs

It’s summer. The rigors of homework,youth clubs and team-scheduled Satur-days are over. No more carpools. Nowit’s your turn to make empowering

choices to impact your child’s life and eventu-ally the lives of their children.

While our kids are young, the challenge ishow to find summer-perfect opportunities thatare fun, yet meaningful, and how to get thekids away from their electronic devices. Whenchoosing summer activities, this is your goldenopportunity to focus on your specific familyvalues. While swimming lessons, camp-outs,and sports are important, wouldn’t it be won-derful to incorporate activities that help yourchildren focus beyond themselves and to theworld beyond Northern Virginia?

We educators emphasize that the earlier yourchild engages in volunteer activities you findimportant, the more likely children will growup respecting your family’s values. In the D.C.Metro Area, there is a plethora of humanitar-ian programs for the under-18 age group thatwill get them into the habit of helping others.

College advisers all know that beyond APs,GPAs, and SAT/ACT scores, colleges today scru-tinize applicants’ activities, their “resumes,” tohelp determine acceptances and scholarships.

So start now, at a pivotal point in your child’slife and witness the hot, summer days of NOVAbecoming wondrous as you watch prioritiesslowly change. We recommend starting atwww.VolunteerFairfax.org (Opportunities Justfor Youth). Plus, in Virginia, kids have the op-portunity to earn service-oriented awards suchas the “Diploma Seal of Excellence in Civics”(www.doe.virginia.gov), or “The PrudentialSpirit of Community Award,” Virginia state-is-sued civics “diploma” for students in grades 5-12 who complete at least a 50-hour serviceproject.

Where could you possibly begin to invest 50or more hours, and for what cause? Our fam-ily discovered the famous “Meals on Wheels”program, started by former U.S. Rep. FrankWolf, and delivered meals to senior citizens forour 10-year, part-time family project.(www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org)

For our “foodie” kids who are cooking orgardening enthusiasts, The Food Network

sponsors “No Kid Hungry.” Proceeds from bakesales are donated to help end childhood hun-ger (www.bake.nokidhungry.org) and the Gar-dening for Good project encourages kids togrow vegetables to donate to senior centers,or help fight senior hunger by sharing a meal.This encourages kids to learn to cook, and helpsyour family bond with a senior while eatingand storytelling.(www.hunger.generationOn.org)

What about our animal-loving children?They can develop a Dog Park Clean-Up plan attheir favorite park or socialize with dogs andcats at local shelters with the Puppy and KittyLove programs. This is great for families wholove pets but can’t actually own one.(www.GenerationOn.org/parents/resources/projects/animal-welfare).

As always, we parents must insure that ac-tivities are safe and the charities are legitimate.The benefits of helping humanitarian organi-zations while taking advantage of your relaxedsummer schedule can create so many power-ful, long-lasting memories and family summertraditions. Aesop states, “No act of kindness,no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

Sharon Strauchs has been Director/Owner ofHerndon-based Cortona Academy in NorthernVirginia. Visit www.CortonaLearning.com.

A time for parents to build humanitarian spirits.

Your Summer, Your Child, Your Values

“In spite of some pockets of economicproblems, the Virginia economy is doingwell,” said state Sen. David Marsden (D-37).Speaking to more than 140 members of theOsher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI),Marsden discussed some of the factors con-tributing to the state’s economic strengths:federal/military-related employment, thePort of Virginia, the Chesapeake Bay, aneducated, diverse, and well-trainedworkforce, agriculture, tourism, and tech-nology.

Marsden’s presentation included graphswhere he compared the Virginia economy

to national averages. The corridor from North-ern Virginia through Richmond to VirginiaBeach remains the strongest part of the Vir-ginia economy, although this area is still re-covering from the recent recession and federalbudget reductions. The educated workforceand growing technology base have helped thiscorridor fare much better than other parts ofthe commonwealth.

Some areas Marsden felt needed attentioninclude:

❖ Job creation, especially in the coal indus-try and other depressed areas of the state.

❖ A rise in the minimum wage above $7.50

per hour. For 120,000 Virginians, the mini-mum wage they earn is simply not enoughto make a decent living.

❖ Medicaid expansion, especially in de-pressed areas. By refusing expansion, thecommonwealth has given up $1.8 billion infederal assistance.

❖ Growing transportation problems thatcould be alleviated through expanding thetransportation fund, improving roadways,devising innovative transportation solu-tions, and widening of Interstate 66 to in-clude toll lanes.

OLLI member Stephanie Trachtenbergarranged the meeting.

Virginia Economy Is Doing Well, Marsden Says

State Sen. David Marsden (D-37) addresses more than 140 members of the OsherLifelong Learning Institute.

Photos by John Nash

Marsden


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News

Homicide atLittle River GlenRetirementCommunity

Cong Huu Nguyen, 77, wasfound dead in his apartment at theLittle River Glen Senior Retire-ment Community in Fairfax,Fairfax County Police said.

Nguyen’s death was ruled a ho-micide, with upper body traumabeing the official manner of death.

Officers from the West Spring-field station responded to the re-port about Nguyen around 8 a.m.on Thursday, April 20.

Police released the victim’sphoto, while the investigation intohis murder is ongoing.

FCPD asks anyone with informa-tion to contact Detective J.D. Longof the Homicide Section at 703-246-

Cong Huu Nguyen, 77, wasfound dead in his apart-ment at the Little RiverGlen Senior RetirementCommunity in Fairfax,Fairfax County Police said.

Co

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7800 or 703-246-7810, or CrimeSolvers electronically by visitingwww.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org ortext-a-tip by texting “TIP187” plusyour message toCRIMES(274637)** or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS(8477), or call FairfaxCounty Police at 703-691-2131.

— Tim Peterson

Free Rides on Cinco de MayoBeginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 5, the 2017 Cinco de Mayo

SoberRide program will be in operation, and continue until 4 a.m. onSaturday, May 6, as a way to keep local roads safe from impaired driv-ers during this traditionally high-risk holiday. This service is offered bythe nonprofit Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP).

During this nine-hour period, area residents age 21 and older cel-ebrating with alcohol may download Lyft to their phones, then enterthe code CINCODC in the app’s “Promo” section to receive their nocost (up to $15) safe transportation home. The SoberRide code is validfor the first 1,500 Lyft users who enter the code.

Infant Toddler Family Day Care toHost International Dinner

Infant Toddler Family Day Care (ITFDC), a non-profit organizationproviding child care resource and referral services in Northern Vir-ginia, will be hosting the 2017 International Dinner for its network of120 Early Child Care Educators and 300 families.

The 2017 International Dinner will be held on Saturday, May 6, from6-8 p.m. at Sydenstricker United Methodist Church (8508 Hooes Road,Springfield).

This event is a tradition for Infant Toddler Family Day Care as themany cultures in the organization are celebrated. ITFDC representsmore than 30 countries and 20 languages spoken in their diverse fami-lies. Their providers come from countries including Afghanistan, Iran,Pakistan, India, Poland, Greece, Philippines, Thailand, El Salvador,Bolivia, and Ethiopia. Many have overcome the difficulties of startinglife in the U.S. as immigrants. As part of the ITFDC organization, theywere given the opportunity to succeed as professional early child careeducators.

The event is also an opportunity for families to meet one another.They bring ethnic dishes to share and come dressed in traditional at-tire. Other activities planned include music and songs for the childrenas well as a voter registration drive.

For more information about the event, contact Wynne Busman, Ex-ecutive Director at 703-352-3449 or by email: [email protected].

Area Roundups

A team representing SpringfieldEstates Elementary Schoolachieved Highest Honors in the recentWordMasters Challenge — a nationalvocabulary competition involving nearly150,000 students annually. The fifthgrade team scored an impressive 184points out of a possible 200 in the sec-ond of three meets this year, placingsixth in the nation. Competing in the

Gold Division of the WordMasters Chal-lenge, fourth grader Tyler Webb andfifth grader Amy Huynh each earneda perfect score of 20 on the challenge.Other students from Springfield EstatesElementary School who achieved out-standing results include fourth graderIsabel Liu and fifth graders KennyChristopher, Cordelia Clayton,Anastasia Klam and Abi Little.

School Notes


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COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP

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

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Send entertainment notes to the Con-nection at connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/ or call 703-778-9416. Thedeadline is the Friday prior to the nextpaper’s publication at noon. Dated an-nouncements should be submitted at leasttwo weeks prior to the event.

ONGOING“Cherry Blossom Kimonos.”

Through April 30 at the WorkhouseArts Center, Building 9, 9518Workhouse Way, Lorton. Thekimonos show is part of a campus-wide celebration of cherry blossomevents in the region, titled “LateBloomers.” The artists will be onhand to talk about their work at thegallery reception in the ArchesGallery in building W9 on SaturdayApril 8, 6-9 p.m. featuring lightappetizers. The reception is free andopen to the public.Visitwww.workhousearts.org/event/exhibit-late-bloomers/ for more.

Earth Day Art Exhibit. Various timesthrough May 4 at the City HallAtrium, 10455 Armstrong St.,Fairfax. The City of FairfaxEnvironmental SustainabilityCommittee will host the 2017 EarthDay Art Exhibit “Natural Causes!Exploring the impact of nature ondaily lives.” A mixed media showwith subject or materials related tothe natural and built environment bylocal students. Visitwww.fairfaxva.gov/ for more.

“The Late Wedding.” Various timesthrough May 7, at the John SwayzeTheatre at the New School ofNorthern Virginia, 9431 Silver KingCourt, Fairfax. A play by ChristopherChen that is both a spy thriller and a

sci-fi love story. Visitwww.thehubtheatre.org for more.

Spotlight on the Arts Festival.Various times through May 9 at OldTown Hall, 3999 University Drive,Fairfax. The 32nd Annual FairfaxSpotlight on the Arts Festival startson April 21st with a glitteringevening at Old Town Hallcelebrating three decades of arts inthe City of Fairfax. Opening Gala, is7 p.m., Saturday, April 29. Visitwww.fairfaxspotlight.org for more.

Storytime in the Park. Tuesdaysthrough May 30, 10:30 a.m. at OldTown Square. Fairfax. Visitfairfaxva.gov/parksrec or call 703-385-7858.

FUN-Exercise Thursdays, noon-12:50p.m. Grace Presbyterian ChurchFamily Room, 7434 Bath St.,Springfield. Inova certified exerciseinstructor leads a moderate levelexercise class with music andcurrent events conversation. Muscle,Balance, Strength Training usingstretch bands and weights bothstanding and seated exercises.Instructor donation is [email protected] or 703-499-6133.

THURSDAY/APRIL 272017 NOVA Student Film Festival.

6-9 p.m. at the Bisdorf Building,Room 196 at the AlexandriaCampus, 5000 Dawes Ave. NorthernVirginia Community College willpresent a number of films createdby NOVA students. Free. Visitblogs.nvcc.edu/lgebre/ for more.

Screenagers Documentary. 7-9p.m. at Robinson Secondary School,5035 Sideburn Road, Fairfax.

By David Siegel

The Connection

Northern Virginia’s own Virginia ChamberOrchestra (VCO) continues to be true toits mission to present fine music performed

with highest artistic integrity for the broadest pos-sible audience. The VCO is a professional chamberorchestra with a majority of its musicians from FairfaxCounty.

Aiming to bring fine music to the broadest pos-sible Northern Virginia audiences, “We have beenprogramming more and more American composersin the past few years, filling a void in the perfor-mance repertoire of the region,” said David Grandis,music director, VCO. “It would seem legitimate tohave an orchestra that showcases the American rep-ertoire, not only for a reason of cultural patriotismand sense of national identity, but also for promot-ing the ongoing creative minds of this repertoire.”

Having recently per-formed at the GMU Cen-ter for the Arts)with theGMUC Symphony Or-chestra, VCO will end itscurrent season with a per-formance at theAnnandale Campus,Northern Virginia Com-

Blending Modern with NostalgicVCO presents “America’sMusical Keepsakes.”

munity College. The performance, titled “America’sMusical Keepsakes,” will showcase the American mu-sical repertoire for reasons including “cultural pa-triotism and sense of national identity,” said Grandis

“America’s Musical Keepsakes” will feature worksby three celebrated 20th century American compos-ers; Samuel Barber (“Reincarnation”), Aaron Copland(“Old American Songs”) and Charles Ives (Symphony#3, “The camp Meeting”) along with 21st centurycontemporary composer, Michael Mauldin(“Petroglyphs for Strings”). “Inspiration from the pastis a significant aspect” of all the works that will beperformed. The audience will hear music that hasbeen “unfairly neglected,” added Grandis.

The VCO will be joined by the Alexandria ChoralSociety on an arrangement of “Old American Songs”by Copland. “The VCO is extremely happy to col-laborate once again with the Alexandria Choral So-ciety because of the excellence of their musical ac-complishments thanks to their singers,” addedGrandis. “Having this choral group joining us wasthe perfect way to end this season.”

The VCO performs regularly at Tysons 1st Stage.Alex Levy, 1st Stage artistic director said, “The VCO

believes that FairfaxCounty should be ahome to world class art.We are proud to host theorchestra in our theaterand offer the communityaccess to connect withthe VCO in their ownback yard.”

Where & WhenVirginia Chamber Orchestra presents “America’s Musical

Keepsakes” at Ernst Community Cultural Center, NorthernVirginia Community College, Annandale Campus, 8333 LittleRiver Turnpike, Annandale. Performance Sunday, May 7, at4 p.m. Tickets at door: adults, $25; seniors, $20; and groups(10 or more), $20. Students are admitted free. Tickets onlineat www.virginiachamberorchestra.org or call 703-758-0179.Parking is free. Complimentary reception will follow.

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Entertainment


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activities. Email [email protected] or call 703-409-1096.

2017 Forgotten Fairfax Programs.11 a.m. at the Virginia Room, City ofFairfax Regional Library, Room A/B,10360 North Street, Fairfax. MikeCopperthite will speak about hisgreat-great grandfather, HenryCopperthite, founder of theConnecticut Copperthite Pie Co. andowner of the Burke racetrack from1909 to 1916. Pie will be provided.Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/events/ or call 703-293-6227, ext. 6.

Wilderness Survival Skills. 11 a.m.-noon at Burke Lake Park, 7315 OxRoad, Fairfax Station. Mark Chapin,the founder of the MountaineerWilderness outdoor program inVirginia and West Virginia, an AirForce veteran and graduate of theWilderness Survival School and SeaSurvival School will be sharing hisknowledge with teens and adults.$10. Call 703-323-6600 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burkelakepark/ for more.

Classical Guitarist. 3 p.m. atKirkwood Presbyterian Church, 8336Carrleigh Parkway, Springfield.Classical guitarist Charles Mokotoffperforms. Visitwww.kirkwoodpres.com, or call thechurch office at 703-451- 5320.

Dessert on Broadway. 7 p.m. at theLake Braddock Little Theater,entrance 14, 9200 Burke Lake Road,Burke. Visit lakebraddockss.fcps.edu.

SUNDAY/MAY 7Emerald City Equestrian. 9:45 a.m.

at Laurel Hill Equestrian Arena DairyRoad, Lorton. There is no water onsite so bring water and park horsetrailers in horse trailer designatedparking area. Must have currentcoggins. $12 per class or $100 for

entire day. Visitwww.yellowbrickroadfarm.com.

May Week Luncheon. 1-3:30 p.m. atthe Hilton Springfield, 6550 LoisdaleRoad. This year’s keynote speakerwill be Elaine Nichols, Senior Curatorof Culture, Smithsonian NationalMuseum of African American Historyand Culture. $50. [email protected] for more.

MONDAY/MAY 8Seniors Only Golf Tournament. 8

a.m. at Greendale Golf Course, 6700Telegraph Road, Alexandria. Prizesfor first and second place in eachdivision and closest-to-the-pin.$45.Call 703- 971-6170 for more.

FRIDAY/MAY 12Spring Concert. 7:30 p.m. at St.

Stephens United Methodist Church,9203 Braddock Road. The MaranathaSingers will present “Bon Voyage.”Free. Call 703-250-5013 for more.

WEDNESDAY/MAY 17Chamber Golf Classic. 1 p.m. at

Laurel Hill Golf Club, 8701 LaurelCrest Drive, Lorton. Event is the mainfundraiser for the Mount Vernon LeeChamber of Commerce ScholarshipFund and will be capped at 120golfers. Email [email protected] for more.

THURSDAY/MAY 18Fashion Show and Luncheon. noon-

2 p.m. at the Church of the GoodShepherd, 9350 Braddock Road,Burke. Proceeds to support supportthe Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke. $30. Visit www.scfbva.org formore.

Parents and students invited to watchthe documentary film “Screenagers:Growing Up in the Digital Age.” Ages10 and older. Visitwww.screenagersmovie.com/ formore.

FRIDAY/APRIL 28Beau Soir Ensemble Concert. 8

p.m. at Old Town Hall, 3999University Drive, Fairfax. The areapremiere “Goodbye My Friend,” byMarjan Mozetich and an arrangementof Claude Debussy’s “Children’sCorner.” Free. Visitwww.beausoir.org for more.

SATURDAY/APRIL 29Run for the Children. 8-11 a.m. at

Fairfax County Courthouse Complex,4110 Chain Bridge Road. The 7thAnnual Fairfax CASA (CourtAppointed Special Advocates) Runfor the Children 8K Race and 3KRun/Walk will be held in historicFairfax City, starting and ending atthe Fairfax Courthouse complex onChain Bridge Road. Visitwww.fairfaxrunforthechildren.com orwww.fairfaxcasa.org for more.

History of Pimmit Hills. 8:30 a.m. atthe City of Fairfax Regional Library,10360 North St., Fairfax The story ofFairfax County’s first governmentsubsidized housing development.Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library or call 703-293-6227 formore.

Used Book Sale. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. atAccotink Unitarian UniversalistChurch, 10125 Lakehaven Court,Burke. A wide variety of books,games, puzzles, CDs and DVDs forboth adults and children. [email protected] or call703-503-4579 for more.

Family Fun Day. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.at Providence Community Center,3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax. Foster,adoptive and kinship families gatherfor day of activities and learning atSpring Forward Family Fun Day. Dr.Bruce Thyer, professor at FloridaState University and author ofScience and Pseudoscience in SocialWork discusses “What Really Worksand What Doesn’t for Tough Kids.”visitwww.FormedFamiliesForward.org orcall 703-539-2904 for more.

Gilbert and Sullivan. 10 a.m.-5:30p.m. (forum), 8 p.m. start(performance) at the George MasonUniversity Fairfax Campus. Forumparticipants will meet in the FenwickLibrary Main Reading Room, Room2001. Performances, exhibitions, anda forum as part of a year-longcelebration of the work of Gilbert andSullivan. Email [email protected] more.

Civil War Author. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. atHistoric Blenheim and the Civil WarInterpretive Center, 3610 Old LeeHighway, Fairfax. “Fairfax Civil WarDay” – living history programs,infantry and cannon firings, scholarlytalks, music by the 2nd SouthCarolina String Band, military drills,historic house tours, wagon rides,youth activities, and barbecue.Admission: $5/adults; $3/youth, 12and under. Visit 703-591-0560 formore.

Craft and Vendor Spring Fair. 10a.m.-3 p.m. at Burke UnitedMethodist Church, 6200 BurkeCentre Parkway, Burke. Jewelry,fashion, home decor, kitchen, garden,gourmet, and more. Free. Visitwww.womansclubofspringfield.orgfor more.

Fairfax Civil War Day. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.at Historic Blenheim and the Civil

War Interpretive Center, 3610 OldLee Highway, Fairfax. Living historyprograms, infantry and cannonfirings, scholarly talks, music by the2nd South Carolina String Band,military drills, historic house tours,wagon rides, youth activities, andbarbecue. $5/adults; $3/youth, 12and under. Visit www.fairfaxva.govfor more.

GMU Student March. 10 a.m. atGeorge Mason University, Alan andSally Merten Hall, 4441 GeorgeMason Blvd, Fairfax. GMU studentswill march for climate, jobs andjustice with hundreds of thousands ofactivists in Washington, D.C. Formore, contact Kelsey Crane [email protected] or 703-438-6246.

Walk to End Sexual Violence. 10:30a.m. at the Fairfax CountyGovernment Center, 12000Government Center Parkway, Fairfax.Participants can walk in honor of oneof the victims who reported a sexualassault in Fairfax County in 2016.Visit www.fairfaxdvcommunity.org/saam for more.

Tea and Tour. 3 p.m. at HistoricPohick Church, 9301 RichmondHighway, Lorton. Living historyprogram beginning at 4 p.m. andmusic will be provided by the ApolloString Quartet. $35. [email protected] or call 703-339-6572.

U.S. Army Chorus. 5 p.m. atWestwood Baptist Church, 8200 OldKeene Mill Road, Springfield. Beyondthe traditional military music andpatriotic standards, the repertoire ofthe Army Chorus covers a broadspectrum which includes pop,Broadway, folk, and classical music.Call 703-455-2743 for more.

Coffee House/Open Mic Night.6:30-9:30 p.m. at Calvary Hill Baptist

Entertainment


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News

By John Byrd

A remodeled home judged the best-of-category in an 11-state com-petition will be open to the pub-lic Saturday, April 29 and Sunday,

April 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The houseat 9117 Glenbrook Road in the Mantua sec-tion of Fairfax is owned by Jack and MarieTorre.

Originally a split-level, Sun Design Re-modeling converted the circa 1960s struc-ture into a spacious neo-classical style resi-dence. In March, the National Associationof the Remodeling Industry (NARI) namedthe renovation the “best entire house re-modeling” ($250,000- $500,000 range) inthe southeastern U.S., a region that rangesfrom Florida to the District of Columbia.

The award was conferred in conjunctionwith NARI’s annual “Contractor of the Year”(COTY) competition.

The Torres, who had purchased the origi-nal brick and siding split level in 1984, hadbeen looking for a larger home when ameeting with a Sun Design consultant per-suaded them that the original structurecould be expanded despite earlier assess-ments to the contrary.

“We’d been told we couldn’t add-on to therear because of set-back restrictions,” JackTorre said. “But the bigger problem was asix-foot roof overhang in front, and theseven steps required to walk from theground level foyer to the primary livingarea. Because of this, we thought we wereprohibited from enlarging the foyer, or ex-panding our living space around thekitchen.”

The 3,500-square-foot neo-classical stylehome now open for viewing showcases thekind of sweeping architectural re-inventionthat can occur when owners set their sightson longer occupancy.

In fact, as the Torres see it, the formerproperty is no longer merely a house — it’stheir “long-term residence,” and one that issubstantially more functional than they hadever thought possible.

“The prospect of lifelong occupancy in-vites people to create a more personalizedliving space” says Bob Gallagher, presidentof Sun Design Remodeling. “We find thiskind of thinking much more common thanin decades past.”

The Torres readily acknowledge the im-portance of Sun Design’s vision — especiallysince they had hired architects on two sepa-rate occasions to develop plans that provedimpossible to implement.

By contrast, the first meeting with BobGallagher generated several previously un-considered options.

At the top of the list, the couple wanted alarger, more functional kitchen — and a

larger dining room with distinctive formalelements, including a tray ceiling.

Plans also called for:❖ a dedicated family room with a view

of the tree-lined backyard, and a spaciouspowder room;

❖ a substantially enlarged gourmetkitchen with butler’s pantry;

❖ a new welcoming entrance to home’sprimary living area directly from the frontdoor.

“The main structural solution entailedraising the front door to the home’s primaryliving area,” Gallagher said. “This requiredextending the front foyer eight feet to getpast the roof overhang. We also needed tore-design the front elevation to better ra-tionalize the difference between the gradeat ground-level and the home’s main livingarea — a distance of about seven feet.”

What evolved was not merely a largerfoyer, but a more appropriate architecturalcontext for the whole in the form of a spa-cious, classically-apportioned front veran-dah that surrounds and presents the frontentrance to the home.

The interior makeover revolves aroundtwo comparatively modest additions — al-beit, enclosed spaces that substantially en-large the home’s main level.

The 44-square-foot foyer situated on anew front porch is aligned with a front doorthat opens directly into a center hall — set-ting up entry into the living room, or kitchenjust a few feet beyond.

Meanwhile, the 300 square feet added onthe home’s west side houses a formal din-ing room and an adjacent rear-of-the housesitting area. The room includes a two-sidedfireplace also visible in the living room. Theenlarged kitchen accommodates a custom-designed banquette, and multiple storagepantries.

Sun Design Remodeling frequently spon-sors design and remodeling seminars as wellas tours of recently remodeled homes.Headquartered in Burke, Sun Design alsomaintains an office in McLean. Seewww.Sun DesignInc.com.

John Byrd ([email protected]) has beenwriting about home improvement for 30 years.

Home will be open tothe public April 29-30.

Mantua Remodeled Home Ranked Bestin 11 States

Photos by Greg Hadley

Sun Design Remodeling’s conversion of a circa 1960’s split-level into aneoclassical-style residence will be open to the public Saturday, April 29and Sunday, April 30 from 11a.m.-5 p.m. The home, located at 9117Glenbrook Road in Fairfax, was judged the best entire house remodel($250,000-$500,000 range) in 11 states by the National Association ofthe Remodeling Industry (NARI). The remodeler added 300 square feeton the left side of the house, introduced a front veranda and elaboratedthe exterior in a new architectural language.

Send notes to the Connection at connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/ or call 703-778-9416.The deadline for submissions is the Friday prior to publication. Dated announcements should besubmitted at least two weeks prior to the event.

SOBER-RIDE FOR CINCO DE MAYOFree Sober Rides. Friday, May 5, 7 p.m.

through Saturday, May 6, 4 a.m. Arearesidents, 21 and older, may download Lyftto their phones, then enter the codeCINCODC in the app’s “Promo” section toreceive a no cost (up to $15) safe ride home.The SoberRide code is valid for the first1,500 Lyft users who enter the code. Visitwww.soberride.com.

APRILCoffee for Campers. April is the Month of the

Military Child, and to honor our nation’slittlest heroes, the National Military FamilyAssociation is asking if you’ll give up yourcoffee shop coffee and donate that extra $5 aday to send a military kid to OperationPurple Camp. Visit www.militaryfamily.org/get-involved/donate/coffee-for-campers.htmlfor more.

Bulletin Board


Springfield Connection ● April 2017 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com online at www.connectionnewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC

SpringfieldSpringfieldFranconia ❖ Kingstowne ❖ Newington

Education&ActivitiesSummer●Camps

Education&ActivitiesSummer●Camps2017

Franconia ❖ Kingstowne ❖ Newington

2 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● April 2017 ● Springfield Connection www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Now in its 16th year – in Annapolis, MD at the U.S. Naval Academy

Overnight Camp & Day CampJune 24-27 | June 19-23

(ages 10-17) (ages 6-12)

NAVY GIRLS SOCCER CAMP

Summer●CampsiEducation&Activities

By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

Summer often evokes images of pool splash-ing and backyard barbequing. For some edu-cators though, warm weather months rep-resent a potential loss of skills acquired dur-

ing an academic year. Known as “brain drain,” thisconcept refers to research that shows that, on aver-age, students lose one to three months of learningwhen they are not engaged in academic activitiesduring summer months. Academic camps can ad-dress this loss of academic skills while allowing chil-dren to enjoy summer fun.

“… Students have the opportunity to explore atopic in depth, without juggling competing scholas-tic demands or intramural activities,” said Dr. JanineDewitt, professor of sociology at Marymount Uni-versity in Arlington.

For example, campers at Summertimes Camp atSt. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School in Alexandria willhave an opportunity to choose from a variety of spe-cialized camps ranging from physics and French tozoology and rocket and space science.

“Specialty camps are great ways to try new things,to expand horizons and to challenge yourself,” saidJim Supple, associate dean of students and directorof summer programs at St. Stephen’s & St. AgnesSchool. “One of the best things about specialty of-ferings is that there are so many. Children are natu-rally curious — specialty camps provide a way forchildren to learn more about their curiosities andinterests.”

Campers at 3E (Explore, Enrich, Enjoy) SummerCamp at Marymount University will explore sciencethrough nature and electronic gadgets, mathemat-ics through making boats and geodesic domes, lan-guage arts through writing stories, and fine artsthrough creating dramas and cartoons. The campwill be offered during two sessions: July 10-14 andJuly 17-21 with half and full day options for stu-dents ages 6 to 12.

Ana Lado, Ph.D., camp director and a professor atMarymount, says that the goal is to give students achance to brush up on, gain or maintain academicskills in a relaxed environment. “Campers will be in

small groups with a low camper to counselor ratioand guided by Marymount University Department ofEducation faculty, students, and alumni,” she said.“Throughout each week of camp, campers will be ableto choose among a variety of projects that pique theirinterest. Campers will create new social connections,grow academically, and develop physically.

High school students who want an in depth studyof globalization can attend Marymount’s D.C. Insti-tute from July 9-12. During the camp, named TheGlobal Village, students will live on campus and earncollege credit.

“We will talk about how increasing global connec-tions shape our lives today,” said Dewitt. “Studentscan expect classroom discussions that focus on a se-ries of central questions followed by field trips to areamuseums and site visits.”

For parents concerned about balancing the need tomaintain academic skills with the need for downtime,Dewitt says that, “Parents can prevent academic burn-out by limiting the number of scheduled activitiesover the course of the summer, and selecting onlythose that foster their child’s natural curiosity. Sum-mer courses that allow students the freedom to se-lect different types of learning activities can be bothenergizing and fun.”

Academic camps keepminds engaged whenschool is out.

Fighting Summer Brain Drain

Photo courtesy of Marymount University

Academic camps such as this one atMarymount University allow students tomaintain academic skills while having fun.

is produced by

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advertising

Education&ActivitiesSummer●Camps

Springfield

Springfield Connection ● April 2017 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

You can read any of this week’s 15 papers digital editions here:www.ConnectionNewspapers.com/PDFs

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By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

This summer a group of high school stu-dents with an interest in health care as aprofession will get a chance to experiencethe real-world work of nurses when they

attend a nursing camp at George Mason University.“Our goal has been to introduce high school stu-

dents to what nursing is, and what it is not,” saidCarol Urban, Ph.D., R.N., associate professor anddirector, School of Nursing George Mason Univer-sity. “We find that we have students come to Masonwho declare nursing as theirmajor, but have never had anyexperience with nurses outside oftheir health care provider’s officeor the school nurse. We want tointroduce them to nursing as acareer, and the many opportuni-ties that exist in nursing beyondworking in a hospital.”

The camp will provide small

Campers will get areal-world view of thenursing profession.

Nursing Camp for HS Studentsgroup projects and hands-on simulation to introducecore concepts of nursing. Nursing faculty hope toexpose students to the diverse career paths availableto those with a degree in nursing.

Urban says that students will be taught healthcareskills, such as how to take a blood pressure and howto check a pulse. “We will provide … time in ournursing simulation laboratory where we have ourhuman simulators,” she said. “[Campers] will haveobservational experiences in a hospital with nursesand will be given an opportunity to talk with nurseswe have on our faculty who have been in uniquecareer fields including a forensics nurse, and a re-searcher who works globally in sub-Saharan Africa.”

The camp will also expose students to new trendsin healthcare. “Healthcare delivery is changing andthe camp is exposing the students to the changinghealthcare climate,” said Christine M. Coussens,Ph.D., associate dean of Community Engagement inthe College of Health and Human Services at George

Mason University. “In the newerhealthcare models, nurses willhave a significant role in how andwhen healthcare is delivered andthey will continue to be leadersfor ensuring the health of pa-tients and communities.”

See Nursing, Page 4

Nursing Camp for

High School Students

JULY 10-14, 2017Cost: $275Time: 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.Application deadline: May 8For more information, visit chhs.gmu.edu/

nursing/camp/index.cfm

4 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● April 2017 ● Springfield Connection www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

WEEKDAYS • SATURDAYS • EVENINGS 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CAREMET LIFE, DELTA, BCBS/CAREFIRST, & UNITED CONCORDIA PROVIDER

To honor Mom on Mother’s Day, send us your favorite snapshots of youwith your Mom and The Mount Vernon Gazette will publish them in ourMother’s Day issue. Be sure to include some information about what’sgoing on in the photo, plus your name and phone number and town ofresidence. To e-mail digital photos, send to:

[email protected] prints will be returned to you if you include a stamped, self-addressed envelope, but please don’t send us anything irreplaceable.

“Me and My Mom”

Introduction To NursingSummer●CampsiEducation&Activities

From Page 3

DURING A TYPICAL DAY at the camp, studentswill spend several hours in the nursing skills labora-tory learning basic skills and techniques. “Then theymay have some time in our nursing simulation lab,working with a [simulated human] patient and us-ing some of those skills to practice caring for thepatient,” said Urban. “On another day, they will spendseveral hours in one of the local hospitals on a nurs-ing unit, observing the nurses in-action, and learn-ing about what nurses do there. They may also spendsome time in one of our Masonand Partners clinics, learning hownurses care for patients in a clinicsetting and how valuable educat-ing patients about their health isto improving their health.

Students will also have an op-portunity to engage in a dialoguewith nurses to gain insights intoreal world experience. “They’llhave conversations with nursesabout their careers and learningwhat education and experiencesthey needed for that kind of a job. For example, whatdoes a forensics nurse do?” asked Urban.

Coussens hopes that students will leave the campknowing the diversity of options that a degree in

nursing can offer. “A degree in nursing opens possi-bilities for students to work in hospitals, healthcaremanagement positions, policy positions … globallyin clinics and with aid organizations, in forensic roles[and] research institutions,” said Coussens. “Thereare limitless opportunities. A degree in nursing canopen doors because of the clinical license and ana-lytical ability.”

Admission to the nursing camp is competitive be-cause of the limited number of available spots.

“We’ve run this camp before and it has been well-received,” said Urban. “‘Graduates’ of the camp have

said that it really opened their eyesto everything a nurse does, and thegreat career potential that nurseshave. They are amazed at the vari-ous opportunities a nurse canhave. It also makes them awarethat nursing is hard, but reward-ing — it isn’t just what you see inthe media, it’s real work. But moreimportantly, they see the passionthat nurses have for that work, andthe reward of seeing a patient andfamily member helped by the work

that nurses do.”The camp will run from July 10-14. The cost is

$275. For more information, visit chhs.gmu.edu/nursing/camp/index.cfm.

“Our goal has been

to introduce high

school students to

what nursing is,

and what it is not.”— Carol Urban, Ph.D., R.N.

Documents

Springfield - The Connection Newspapersconnectionarchives.com/PDF/2017/042617/Springfield.pdf · Springfield ranconia Kingstowne Newington Education&Activities Summer Education Camps