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Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com online at www.connectionnewspapers.com
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February 15-21, 2017
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ViennaViennaand Oaktonand OaktonErickson, raised in Vienna, finds aforever home and loving family withthe Morrobels of New Jersey.
Nysmith School StudentsExcel in CompetitionsNews, Page 12
The Madison Ice HockeyWins Division ChampionshipSports, Page 12
Nysmith School StudentsExcel in CompetitionsNews, Page 12
The Madison Ice HockeyWins Division ChampionshipSports, Page 12
Morrobel Boys WinTheir ‘Gold Medal’
News, Page 3
Morrobel Boys WinTheir ‘Gold Medal’
News, Page 3
2 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
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The Fairfax County Police De-partment are searching for sus-pects who evaded capture onThursday, Feb. 9, after a danger-ous pursuit by car and foot.
During the chase, the suspectssideswiped another car. The driverof that car was not injured.
All of the merchandise was re-covered, including the car the sus-pects used, which was determinedto be stolen from another state. It
will be processed for evidence andreturned to the jurisdiction fromwhere it was reported stolen.
The pursuit began shortly after9 p.m.
The Bloomingdales at TysonsCorner Center alerted police to arobbery. As police officers drove upto the store entrance, they sawthree men running to a parked2016 Mazda 6 with what appearedto be merchandise.
The car took off and would notstop for police officers. The carchase ended in Tysons near BesleyRoad and Bois Avenue when thecar crashed. All three suspectsthen ran from the car on foot.
The Police Helicopter Divisionand Canine Unit responded to helpsearch for the suspects, but theyescaped.
The suspects were described asblack and in their early 20s. One
was wearing a hooded sweatshirt,blue jeans and red and blackshoes. Another was wearing a graysweatshirt and blue jeans and hadshort hair. The third suspect had agoatee and was wearing a dark-colored sweatshirt.
The FCPD asks anyone with in-formation about this incident tocall 1-866-411-8477.
–Fallon Forbush
News
Three Thieves Escape after Theft in Tysons
Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
The day Barbara Weigand returnedErickson III to the CCI NortheastRegional Training Center, inMedford, Long Island, Feb. 12,2016, to begin advanced training.
News
By Ashley Claire Simpson
The Connection
Thanks to puppy-raising volun-teers like Vienna’s BarbaraWeigand, Canine Companionsfor Independence, a non-profit
organization that provides assistance dogsto people with disabilities, continues toflourish and enhance the lives of all humansand animals involved with their mission. Formore than 40 years, Canine Companionshas been improving quality of life for peoplewith a wide range of disabilities — one setof paws at a time.
As a puppy-raising volunteer, Weigandreceives 8-week old puppies from CanineCompanions as part of her 18-month com-mitment to care for and prepare them forthe advanced training that catapults theminto the hands of people with disabilitieslonging for a dog to make life a little easier.
Weigand, a longtime resident of Vienna,is currently in the midst of raising her sec-ond Canine Companions puppy, Konrad II.The first dog she raised for the program wasErickson III, a Golden Retriever-Labradorcross, who, last August, found his foreverhome with brothers Ethan and GavinMorrobel, of Scotch Plains, N. J.
“Erickson went to a family with two pre-teen to teenage boys, and he is the boys’Skilled Companion,” Weigand said. “Hedoes not have to go to school with them,but accompanies the boys when they go tomedical appointments and on family out-ings. He serves as a well-trained compan-ion for boys who would otherwise not beable to experience having a dog.”
When the Morrobel family eagerly wel-comed Erickson in their home last August,Ethan and Gavin were 14- and 11-years old,respectively. Now, six months later, theirmother, Pamela Morrobel, said that Ericksonhas already made a profound impact on thefamily.
“Both boys have Usher Syndrome,”Morrobel explained, “so they were bornprofoundly deaf and now have cochlearimplants. They are also visually impairedand have difficulties with balance. Our fam-ily has never had a dog before, so we arecertainly still adjusting, but my children arejust so happy. It’s helped them adjust inmoving to a new country, a new school andnew friends. Ethan and Gavin love him somuch. They both work so hard to do thesame things their peers are doing. Ericksonjust gives them unconditional love that af-fects their emotional wellbeing in such a
positive way.”Upon learning that Erickson was going
to a family with children, Weigand imme-diately knew it would be a great match.
“Knowing that Erickson was matched toa family with children, and then meetingthe wonderful Morrobel family, was a dreamcome true,” Weigand said. “I had hoped thiswould happen for Erickson because heshowed me a gentleness with children thatwas his special strength. When I met theMorrobel family, I immediately found thewhole process even more meaningful. I feltan immediate connection to them and knewthis was the best possible match forErickson.”
PAMELA MORROBEL said her familycould not be more grateful for Weigand andthe “fantastic job” she did in raising such aspecial dog. Weigand and the Morrobelswere able to meet in person at the gradua-tion ceremony CCI held for Ericksson andthe rest of his graduating class of dogs thatsuccessfully matriculated from AdvancedTraining to become Skilled Companions.
“We met Barbara briefly at the CCI Head-quarters during the graduation ceremonythat took place on the day we acceptedErickson,” Morrobel said. “It was so lovelyand so touching because she was so excitedthat the dog was coming to a home withchildren, where he would be loved. Shemade us an album so we saw him as apuppy. Our family plans to meet up withher next time we visit Washington, D.C.”
Meanwhile, Weigand and the Morrobelskeep in contact through a Facebook pagethat Ethan set up while in training at Ca-
nine Companions Headquarters last August.Weigand appreciates being able to see
what her first, of likely many, trainees is upto with the Morrobels. Parting ways afterher year-and-a-half tutelage with Ericksonwasn’t easy, but, she said she went into theprogram knowing that the beloved dog’sultimate destination was the only place forhim to live out his potential for the greatergood.
“I always kept in my mind that I was rais-ing Erickson for a purpose and that he wasnot to be my pet, but rather he was meantto be successful in service to others, in what-ever manner best suited him,” Weigand said.
Over the course Weigand’s 18 monthswith Erickson, she taught him the basiccommands and socialization skills that werecritical for him to succeed in his AdvancedTraining with professional instructors backat the New York headquarters, where helearned more than 40 advanced commands.During Erickson’s formative months,Weigand logged many hours at home work-ing with him one-on-one, and was also re-sponsible for taking him to structuredclasses every month.
“Training is incorporated into regulardaily activities, with special CCI classestwice a month and other classes, workshops,and puppy play-days every month,”Weigand said. “It is a 24/7 commitment,however, the entire CCI community — fromthe organization’s staff to the other volun-teers — is supportive if you have any ques-tions, concerns, or even if you need to leavetown for a short trip. There is always some-one who will step up and take care of yourpuppy during these times of need.”
It seems that everybody involved withCanine Companions, including the caninecompanions themselves, walk away fromthe process with fond memories and con-victions that the organization has changedtheir lives for the better.
“Our experience with CCI was wonder-ful,” Morrobel said. “They don’t usually as-sign one dog to two children, but, they con-ducted phone interviews and then we wentto their facility in Long Island for a personalinterview. Then, our whole family went backto the CCI Northeast Regional Headquar-ters last August for training, and the boysand I still talk about it. It was perhaps thebest two weeks of our lives. We enjoyed theother owners-in-training, all the instructors,and all the dogs. You wouldn’t think itwould be a great experience to pack up afamily for two weeks to stay at a trainingfacility, but we all loved it.”
Erickson has been a dream come true forEthan and Gavin, who had wished for a doglong before their mom learned about CCI.Pamela Morrobel said her hesitation camefrom doubts about a dog’s overall benefitto two young men who, although undoubt-edly resilient, do have physical challengesthat are no small feat to overcome, evenwithout the added responsibilities and po-tential complexities of a pet.
“The boys really wanted a dog, but, I wasworried about their safety,” Morrobel re-called. “So, I did my research. They weren’tqualified for seeing-eye dogs, and, with myconcerns regarding a traditional pet dog,CCI seemed like a great option. I was try
See Erickson, Page 12
The dog raised byVienna puppy-raiserBarbara Weigandfinds his foreverhome in New Jersey.
Morrobel Boys Win Their ‘Gold Medal’
Photos contributedErickson and family.
Vienna/Oakton Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic
703-778-9414 or [email protected]
4 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Opinion
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Vienna & Oakton
While three bills that could havereined in the runaway gerry-mandering in Virginia made itthrough the Virginia Senate to
crossover, they died on Tuesday morning in aHouse subcommittee, despite some vocal Re-publican support.
In Virginia, Democrats have won every state-wide election since 2010, and notably BarackObama won the state in 2008 by morethan 52 percent of the vote. Many ofthese victories have been narrow. In2009, Republicans won Governor, Lt.Governor and Attorney General by strong mar-gins.
It is reasonable, given these results, to ex-pect that representation at the state level wouldbe approximately even, with either Republi-cans or Democrats holding a small advantage.Instead, Republicans control the House of Del-egates 66 to 34, and the Virginia Senate 21 to19.
There is little competition for these seats asa result.
According to OneVirginia2021, an advocacygroup for ending gerrymandering, 56 candi-
dates in the House of Delegates faced no realcompetition in the last general election in2013, with 22 Democrats and 34 Republicansfacing no major-party challenger. In the end,only two seats changed parties.
These same lawmakers are set to redraw thethe boundaries for state legislative and con-gressional districts after the 2020 census, andthe just-killed proposed constitutional amend-
ments would have required that thesenot be motivated by partisan politics.By far the best approach would be toturn the process over to a non-parti-
san commission to draw boundaries in the bestinterests of Virginia citizens.
One of the proposals, cosponsored by Sen.Jill Vogel (R) and Sen. Janet Howell (D),passed the Senate 31-9, but died in the Housesubcommittee on a 5-2 vote.
It matters more here in Northern Virginia.Virginia is a Dillon Rule state, which meansthat localities have only the power specificallygiven to them by the General Assembly. Itmeans that the economic engines of the statein Northern Virginia provide most of the finan-cial wherewithal but citizens in Alexandria,
Arlington and Fairfax County are often unableto govern themselves as they wish because ofcontrol by a far more conservative GeneralAssembly.
Real change starts locally. Anyone seekingchange should tune in for this year’s electionsin Virginia, including all the seats in the Gen-eral Assembly, plus Governor, Lieutenant Gov-ernor and Attorney General. Every voter willchoose one Virginia Senator and one memberof the Virginia House of Delegates.
Nonpartisan redistricting could support thebest interests of the population, not the politi-cians.In 2016Hillary Clinton (D) 1,981,473 (49.75%);Donald Trump (R) 1,769,443 (44.43%)In 2013:McAuliffe (D) 1,069,789;Cuccinelli (R) 1,013,389Northam (D) 1,213,155;Jackson (R) 980,257Herring (D) 1,103,777;Obenshain (R) 1,103,612In 2012:Obama (D) 1,971,820;Romney (R) 1,822,522Kaine (D) 2,010,067; Allen (R) 1,785,542
— Mary Kimm
Efforts appear dead for this session, but electionslater this year provide new opportunities.
Ending Gerrymandering Important to Region
Editorial
Dear Senator McConnell,While we may disagree on many
issues, I respect the office youhold. I was taught that the officeof Senator was one to be executedwith respect and dignity. Becauseof this, I am appalled at your con-duct toward Senator Warren onthe Floor during the Sessions de-bate. The office you hold is biggerthan your party. There are youngchildren (my children, to be spe-cific) looking to you as an exampleof someone to be held in the high-est esteem. Rather, I had to explainto them why you would dismiss areading of the words of CorettaScott King; a national hero, whose
story they are learning about inschool. I explained to my childrenthat Mrs. King was the true defi-nition of a patriot. She and Dr.King changed the world with boththeir unapologetic love and theirrefusal to cower to the oppressorstrying to silence them.
Now I will say thank you. Be-cause of your shameful behavior,I’ve had the opportunity to teachmy children the difference be-tween standing up for what’s rightand trying to silence the truth forpersonal gain. Because you’re afather yourself, I’m sure you knowthat tangible examples are alwaysmore effective than fables, so I
predict this one will linger in theirmemory banks. Subsequent towatching the Senate confirmationsunfold, my 7-year-old daughterhas announced that she wants tobe President when she grows up.Who knows, maybe seeing youbully Senator Warren on the Floorwas what pushed her to this reso-lution! She is being raised to valuetruth, honor and respect for herfellow citizens above greed andbigotry and, in part thanks to you,she will be an extraordinary civilservant.
Andrea PetersenVienna
Letters to the Editor
An Open Letter to Sen Mitch McConnell
To the Editor:Unsatisfied with the existing
identification requirements tovote in Virginia, on Feb. 1 Repub-licans in Virginia’s House of Del-egates voted to make it evenharder to vote in state elections.If this were to pass, in order toregister to vote in Virginia’s stateelections, Virginians would needto prove citizenship by providinga birth certificate, a passport, ornaturalization documents. This ispart of the continued Trump-ledRepublican effort to attack the
very soul of our democracy byraising concerns about non-exis-tent voter fraud and then pretend-ing to fight it.
These restrictions will not stopvoter fraud because that frauddoes not exist. What the restric-tions will do is send Virginiansrooting through boxes of decades-old files containing birth certifi-cates and passports. Passports areexpensive, and birth certificatesare hard to obtain, especially if youwere born somewhere outside theU.S. These restrictions will keep
ordinary, every day Virginiansfrom voting to choose their repre-sentatives.
Republicans are doing their bestto keep Virginians from the polls,but they cannot keep us from thephones. Unless you are currentlyholding your birth certificate orpassport in your hands, I recom-mend picking up your phone andcalling your state senator beforethey try to take that away too.
Kenneth BledsoeReston
Voting Rights Under Attack
First snowWhen I awokeMy room was brightThe ceiling was awash in
light...It snowed last night!
Now others wakeWhere I would be....In rooms of luminosityBeside the sea.
— Meredith Luhrs
Vienna, January 2017
Photo contributed
Meredith Luhrs
WriteThe Connection welcomes views on
any public issue. Include homeaddress and home and businessnumbers. Letters are routinelyedited for libel, grammar, good
taste and factual errors.
Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
By Alexandra Greeley
The Connection
A restaurant bombshell has struckthe decorous town of Vienna,and its name is Red Galanga. ForAsian foodies, the word
“galanga” (or “galangal”) has instant rec-ognition: a root cousin of ginger, used of-ten in Southeast Asian recipes. Its pro-nounced yet slightly gingery flavor addsgreat cheer to a host of dishes, and may begrated, sliced, diced, ground, or even leftwhole and fried. So, one might wonder, howdoes something like this turn up as a res-taurant name? Note: the owners also call it“modern Asian.”
The clever owners have assembled a set-ting to showcase the brilliant creations ofits chefs, who have captured a diverse ar-ray of aromas and tastes in the menu thatshowcases both Japanese, Thai, (and atleast one Singaporean dish) cuisines — butwith a slightly modern twist. For example,Thai red duck curry is generally cubed duckmeat in a coconut milk-rich curry. Here: it’scalled “duck confit.”
The main problem is that so many dishesbeckon, how to choose, you may wonder.As starters, you can’t go wrong with the TomYum crispy calamari, a pile of deep-friedcalamari slices sweetened and heated withdabs of a Thai sweet-sticky sauce. The Asiantacos include spiced tuna, spiced salmon,or spiced chicken, wrapped up in crispy (al-
most too crunchy) fried corn tortillas.Though crunchy, these tacos are an inter-esting kickoff to an Asian meal. And then,if you are really experimental, you can be-gin lunch or dinner with an order of friedfrog legs that have been marinated in spices— a bit unusual for an Asian restaurant.
Choosing entrées can take you from aJapanese bento box filled with sushi andsashimi or with shrimp and vegetabletempura paired with salmon teriyaki, plusother options. But if your tastes take you tospicier eats, to Thailand, you cannot missthe Massaman beef curry, a Southern Thaispecialty wrought here to perfection. Youwould agree if you have traveled to that partof Thailand, and chances are, that will be-come your go-to main course at this res-taurant.
On the other hand, a lunch entrée can besimpler and smaller, especially if your jobcalls for afternoon hours. In that case, oneof the all-rice or all-noodle dishes are greatchoices: nasi goreng (Malaysian rice dish),shrimp pad Thai, and the very popularDrunken Noodles all rate thumbs up. Butfor tamer flavors, scan the Japanese partsof the menu with choices of sushi, sashimi,and Japanese noodles dishes.
Besides the seductive flavors, the col-orful décor, and the roomy dining areas,Red Galanga excels with its courteous,prompt service, an element that may belacking at other restaurants. So to theowners of this interesting and daring en-terprise: three cheers!
Vienna restaurantowners getthree cheers.
Red Galanga Served‘Modern Asian’ Cuisine
Food
Where & WhenRed Galanga, 144 Church St., NW, Vienna.
Phone: 703-865-4996. Hours: lunch and dinnerdaily. www.RedGalangaVienna.com.
Heritage Financial Consultants OpensVienna Office
Heritage Financial Consultants, a Mid-Atlantic wealth management firm provid-ing comprehensive financial services, today announced that Art McGonigal andMatt Sirpis have joined the firm to lead Heritage Financial Consultant’s new officein Vienna.
The Vienna office, located at 8219 Leesburg Pike, Suite 200, will be HeritageFinancial Consultant’s fifth office. This past year, the firm expanded its footprintalong the East Coast through a new office in Annapolis, Md.
To learn more about Heritage Financial Consultants and its financial planners,visit heritageconsultants.com/about-us/.
Week in Vienna
To have community events listed in the Connec-tion, visit connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/.The deadline for submissions is noon on Friday.
FEBRUARYFree public service seminars❖ Downsizing: Feb. 14, Marshall H.S. 7731
Leesburg Pk., Falls Church.❖ Retirement Communities Feb. 22, Madison H.S.,
Bulletin Board
See Bulletin Board, Page 11
2500 James Madison Drive, Vienna.For more information and seminar registration go
to RetireeRealEstate.org, or call 703-772-3033.
TUESDAY, FEB. 21Public Art Commission Meeting. 7 p.m. at
Town Hall, 127 Center St. S. Advises and assists
6 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Date and Time: Location:02/22/2017 at 6:30 PM Maggiano’s Little Italy
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You’re
Invi
ted
By Marilyn Campbell
The Connection
Even though Elavie Ndura knowsthat it is a daunting challenge tohelp children grasp the entiretyof the African American experi-
ence in the shortest month of the year, eachFebruary she and other educators give ittheir best effort. This year, they feel it’s moreimportant than ever.
“With all of the racial experiences we’rehaving these days, it’s critical that childrenknow their history and are not basing theirknowledge on only what they see on televi-sion or what they hear from their friends,”said Elavie Ndura, Ed.D., professor of edu-cation at George Mason University in Fairfax.“Research shows that children who under-stand their histories do better in school andin society, so it’s critical that families teachtheir children about their history,”
Ndura believes that the current racial cli-mate in the U.S. gives this year’s Black His-tory Month additional significance. A studyreleased last month by the Pew Research
Center shows that among Americans, 61percent of blacks, 58 percent of Hispanicsand 45 percent of whites say that race rela-tions in the United States are generally bad.
Local educators say Black History Monthoffers opportunities to address issues of raceby allowing the past to inform the present.
“We have seen for more than a year howpeople from different political viewpoints,but also races, sexes, cultures, religions,sexual orientations, and socioeconomic sta-tuses related to each other in the presentpolitical climate, and it was troublesome,”said Mika’il A. Petin, Ph.D., associate direc-tor of African and African American Studiesat George Mason University. “Teaching thehistory of Black or African-heritage peoplesin this month … is necessary to starting dif-ficult conversations about… current race re-lations … and social inequalities.”
Race relations in our society have beendeeply strained during the election and asAmerica adjusts to a new presidential ad-ministration. These divisions make AfricanAmerican history lessons critical for all chil-dren, but particularly for black children,says Ndura. “As African American parentswe have a serious duty to educate our ownyouth,” she said. “Knowing your historygrounds and anchors you firmly so that youare not wavered in the wrong direction be-cause of whatever feelings might be causedby what you’re seeing on the news.”
Black history lessons work best whenthey’re intentional and creative, advises
Educators say theselessons are urgentlyneeded in currentracial climate.
Celebrating Black History Month
Photo by Marilyn Campbell/The Connection
Books that explore African American experiences are on display atlibraries and bookstores during Black History Month.
Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
We didn’tinheritthe earthfrom ourparents.We’re bor-rowing itfrom ourchildren.
—Chief Seattle(1788-1866)Suquamish/
Duwamish chief
“Teaching the history of Black orAfrican-heritage peoples this month …is necessary to starting difficultconversations about … current racerelations … and social inequalities.”
— Mika’il A. Petin, Ph.D., George Mason University
Jessica Lewis, Ed.D., assistant professorof education and human services atMarymount University in Arlington. “Chil-dren benefit when they are exposed to avariety of perspectives, ideas and storiesbecause it helps expand their view of theworld and people living in it,” she said. “Theability to understand and identify with oth-ers and their experiences is a powerful, life-long lesson.”
Lewis advises making a trip to a localbookstore or library to find books that of-fer a glimpse of African American historyand suggests that parents begin with bookson subjects that interest their children.“[Parents] may start with readings onsports, or science, or biographies of the ac-complishments and hardships of individu-als who persisted throughout history tomake a difference,” she said. “Parents can… select books by black authors and illus-trators and then take the time to read thestory together, discuss the pictures, and askquestions about what the characters arefeeling and experiencing.”
Other ideas include exploring music withroots in African American history such asragtime, jazz, gospel and blues, making atimeline of major events that occurred dur-ing the Civil Rights Movement, and read-ing speeches from civil rights leaders andthen helping children write their ownspeech about what they are inspired tochange in the world. Such activities canopen a natural discussion and need not becomplicated to be effective, says Lewis.
“Parents are their children’s first educa-tors,” said Lewis. “It is important for par-ents to help their children understand theexperiences of other children who are notlike them because it builds empathy and adeeper sense of community.”
One roadblock to such honest conversa-tions, cautions Petin, is a discomfort withdiscussions of racial differences. “Let’s befrank, some white Americans who are po-litically and socially conservative becomenoticeably uncomfortable with the topic of
race, and therefore find difficulty with BlackHistory Month,” he said. “Yet, Black HistoryMonth –– similar to the Black Lives Mattermovement –– does not express superiorityover others. Both the month of celebrationand socio-political movement are forms ofresistance to deliberate attempts to concealthe worthiness of Black or African-heritagepeople in this country.”
Some people “may attack Black HistoryMonth and Black Lives Matter as politicalcorrectness and identity politics, but I wouldargue that they are not seeing the human-ity in both efforts,” continued Petin. He em-phasized the importance of taking a pur-poseful approach to teaching children aboutblack history. “I think that all parents mustintentionally search for, study, and celebratethose who are on the margins, living in theshadows, perceived as voiceless, and re-garded as invisible. Too often, black Ameri-cans were those marginal, shadowed, voice-less, and invisible people. All parents shouldbe honest about that, and should have con-fidence in the U.S. only being great whenthey and their children educate themselveson this country’s history in more inclusiveterms.”
Schools often play a significant role in themonth’s activities. Students at the BullisSchool in Potomac, Md., for example, at-tend a Black History Month assembly eachFebruary. This year’s event was led by sev-eral students who shared their thoughts, es-says and other projects on a variety of top-ics. “Diverse literature is always a greatidea,” added Allison Ewing, chair of thesocial studies department at Bullis.
“Twenty-eight days of teachable moments”is one way that Petin characterizes Black His-tory Month. “It is never too early to start pre-paring your kids for a world that is increas-ingly more connected and shrinking,” hesaid. “When all parents teach their childrenhow to develop skill sets to understand,value, empathize, and celebrate those whomay be different than them, the children arebetter prepared to function in the world.”
8 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
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10:25 a.m. Sunday School Grades 3 to 6Music 4 years to 2nd grade
11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II5:00 p.m. Come Just as You Are Contemporary Service
Nursery care provided at 9:00 a.m. service
The Rev. John C. N. Hall, RectorThe Rev. Laura Cochran
703-437-6530www.stannes-reston.org
1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston
ST. ANNE’SEPISCOPALCHURCH • Reston
Welcoming, Diverse, Progressive
Send announcements to connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. Deadline isFriday at noon for the following week’spaper. Photos/artwork encouraged.
ONGOINGThe Golden Girls of Northern
Virginia, a senior women’s softballleague, is looking for players. Anywoman over the age of 40 isencouraged to join. All skill levels arewelcome. Play on Wednesdayevenings and Saturday mornings inVienna. Visit www.goldengirls.org.
McLean Community Players“Company.” Fridays-Sundays/Feb.3-19 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2p.m. Sundays. Alden Theatre, 1234Ingleside Ave. McLean, VA 22101. A1970 musical comedy based on abook by George Furth with music andlyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Theoriginal production was nominatedfor a record-setting fourteen TonyAwards and won seven. $25/$23MCC tax district residents. Visithttp://www.mcleanplayers.org/.
The Freeman Store & MuseumWednesday through Sunday noon - 4p.m. 131 Church Street NE Vienna.The Freeman Store & Museum isdedicated to Preserving andpromoting Vienna’s heritage throughthe identification, preservation, andinterpretation of history significantplaces, events, and persons.Historicviennainc.org
Weekly Storytime. Wednesday andSaturday. 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble,7851 L Tysons Corner Center,McLean. Themes and Titles vary.Free admission.
Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. FlameRoom, Vienna Volunteer FireDepartment, 400 Center St. S,Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/bingo.html.
Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.Emmaus United Church of Christ,900 E Maple Ave. E, Vienna.Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. UnitarianUniversalist Congregation of Fairfax,2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton.Gentle Kundalini Yoga, one freeintroductory session, seniordiscounts. Increase flexibility,improve breathing and health, reducestress. Ravi Kaur has 15 yearsexperience teaching yoga. $15 persession. www.edimprovement.org.571-213-3192.
Tai Chi Beginners’ Practice.Saturdays, 8-9 a.m. St. Luke’sCatholic School Gymnasium, 7005Georgetown Pike, McLean. WeeklyTai Chi practice. Group has met forover 20 years. Free. FreeTaiChi.org.703-759-9141.
Fishing Rod Rentals 8700 PotomacHills Street, Great Falls. Rentalsavailable during visitor center hours.Fishing tackle and live bait areavailable for purchase. Reservationsrequired for group rentals. $6/rental(2hr max). Valid driver’s licenserequired. Our rod/reel combinationsare perfect for beginners andchildren. A Virginia or Marylandfreshwater fishing license is requiredfor persons 16 years or older. Thepark does not sell fishing licenses.www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend-park/
Colvin Run Mill open 11-4 p.m. daily,closed Tuesday. 10017 Colvin RunRd, Great Falls. Fairfax County’soperational 19th century waterpowered gristmill, offers recreationaland educational activities for all agesthrough daily tours, school programsand special events. Fees: $7/adult,$6 students 16+ with ID, $5 children& seniors. Winter Hours: January &February, 11am-4pm, last tour 3pm.Admission to park is FREE except for
some special events.
THURSDAY/FEB. 16Live Music. 7 p.m. Jammin’ Java, 227
Maple Ave. East Vienna. FredEaglesmith will be performing. Visitjamminjava.com.
FRIDAY/FEB. 17Mayor’s Walk. 9:30 a.m. at Town
Hall, 127 Center St. S. Meet MayorLaurie DiRocco in front of Town Hallfor a stroll through Town as well asconversation and camaraderie. Free.Call 703-255-6304 for more.
SATURDAY/FEB. 181964 Beatles Tribute Band. 8 p.m.
at the Barns at Wolf Trap, 1635 TrapRoad. Recreates the Fab Four’s early’60s concerts, complete with periodinstruments, clothing, hairstyles, andonstage banter. $38-42. Visitwww.wolftrap.org/ for more.
SATURDAY/FEB. 18Cars & Coffee. 6-9 a.m. at Katie’s
Coffee House, Village Centre, 760Walker Road, Great Falls. Antique,classic, and new cars are on display,share stories over morning coffeewith car owners, neighbors, andfriends. Visitkatiescarsandcoffee.com/ for more.
SUNDAY/FEB. 19Concert: The Daraja Ensemble 4 -
6 p.m. at Saint Francis EpiscopalChurch, 9220 Georgetown Pike,Great Falls. This fellowshipwoodwind quintet from theUniversity of Maryland takes itsname from the Swahili word for
Calendar
Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 ❖ 9www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
www.lostdogandcatrescue.org
lost (adj): 1. unable to find the way.2. not appreciated or understood.
3. no longer owned or known
Helping AnimalsFind Their WaySince 2001
Adopt/Donate/Volunteer
Volunteers needed for adoption events, fostering, transporta-tion, adoption center caretaking and more.
“bridge.” Coming together from aroundthe country and abroad, their wide-ranging performances includeongoing outreach to Tanzania. $30 atthe door or season pass $150. Visitamadeusconcerts.com/
MONDAY/FEB. 20Contacts Create Cash 9:45-11 a.m.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop, 1577 SpringHill Road #100, Tysons. ContactsCreate Cash is an OPEN networkinggroup for professional salespeople,business owners, and networkingmarketing professionals who wish tobuild a referral based business. Ourmeeting format is as follows: 1/3sales/marketing/business training, 1/3 discussion/learning exercise, 1/360 second attendee introductionswith open networking before themeeting and after the meeting. Cost:Free. Contact discussion moderatorDavid Hillelsohn [email protected]. RSVP toMarie Benoit [email protected].
TUESDAY/FEB. 21Gardening with Native Plants. 10
a.m. at Vienna Presbyterian Church,124 Park St. NE. David Roos willprovide insights on plants andgardening. Free. Visitviennapres.org/ for more.
Discussing C&O Canal Companion.11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the DranesvilleChurch of the Brethren, 11500Leesburg Pike. Guest speaker at theThe Great Falls Senior Center event,author Mike High, has cycled inmany places around the world butthe trail along the C&O Canal is his
favorite. Contact Polly Fitzgerald [email protected] or call 703-759-4345. Visit gfseniors.org.
FRIDAY/FEB. 24Unruly Theater Project. 7-9 p.m. at
the The Old Firehouse Teen Center,1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean.Professional teen improvisationcompany offers a night of comedy,and more. Free. Visitwww.mcleancenter.org/teens.
FEB. 24-25Scrapbooking Weekend. 6 p.m.-
midnight at the Vienna VolunteerFire Department Auxiliary, 400Center St. S., Vienna. Snacksincluded, vendors on-site so you canpurchase supplies or get expertadvice. $60. Contact Lisa Emerson [email protected] or 703-981-4504.
SATURDAY/FEB. 25Cars & Coffee. 6-9 a.m. at Katie’s
Coffee House, Village Centre, 760Walker Road, Great Falls. Antique,classic, and new cars are on display,share stories over morning coffeewith car owners, neighbors, andfriends Visitkatiescarsandcoffee.com/ for more.
Meet Me in Paris. 8 p.m. at The Aldenin McLean, 1234 Ingleside Ave. TheHot Club of San Francisco’s “Meet Mein Paris” brings an evening of gypsyjazz. $35 for the general public; $20for McLean tax district residents.Visit mcleancenter.org/alden-theatreor call 703- 790-9223 for more.
SUNDAY/FEB. 26Southern Avenue Concert. 8 p.m. at
Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave E. $12-$20. Go to www.southernavenueband.com for more.
SATURDAY/MARCH 4Wine Tasting River Bend Country
Club 7 - 10 p.m. There will be adelicious selection of Hors d’oeuvres,cheeses and fine wines and minglingwith long-time and new Great Fallsneighbors.
SUNDAY/MARCH 12Chantilly Egg Hunt. Saturdays and
Sundays. 26469 Ticonderoga Road,Chantilly. Join the Easter Bunny andsearch for candy and toy-filled eggs.Visit www.ticonderoga.com/about.
THURSDAY/MARCH 16Vietnam Veterans Meeting. 7:30
p.m. at Neighbor’s Restaurant, 262DCedar Lane. Volko Ruhnke willdiscuss the development of hissuccessful board game, “Fire in theLake, Insurgency in Vietnam.” CallLen Ignatowski at 703-255- 0353 orvisit www.vva227.org.
SATURDAY/MARCH 19Old-Fashioned Egg Hunt & Roll
10:30-11:30 a.m. at Freeman House,131 Church St. NE, Vienna. Children12 and under and their parents arewelcome to participate in an egg rolland visit with Easter Bunny, hostedby Historic Vienna, Inc. Visitwww.viennava.gov.
Calendar
Live MusicOn Saturday, Feb.25, the Hot Clubof San Francisco’s“Meet Me inParis” brings anevening of gypsyjazz to The Aldenin McLean, 1234Ingleside Ave.Showtime 8 p.m.,$35 for the gen-eral public; $20for McLean taxdistrict residents.Visitmcleancenter.org/alden-theatre orcall 703-790-9223for more.
10 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.
By KENNETH B. LOURIEFor over two and a half years now, since
June ‘14 — according to my most recentinvoice, “idiot” lights on the dashboard of mymodel year 2000, Honda Accord have warnedme that all was not right with our back-up car.But due to intermittent use, amazing self-disci-pline on my part and little new evidence to thecontrary, the Honda has maintained its per-formance, if you can even call it that. Soonafter this last visit to my local mechanic hadcleared the pre-2014 dashboard indicators, the“SRS” (seat belt restraint system) came on sug-gesting that something was once again rotten inDenmark, and Burtonsville, too. Nevertheless,with the ink barely dry on my credit card receipt, and with our second car not being apriority, I decided to let it live and let live andhope for the best. Approximately 32 monthslater, my hope has been realized. No repairshave been required in the interim. However,over that same time, multiple additional “war-ning” lights have come on: “brake lamp,” “mai-ntenance due,” and just recently, the infa-mous/scourge “check-engine” light to wherefour lights are now illuminated. And though, tomy credit, I have been able to endure andignore their constant reminders; but when thatfourth light, the “check-engine” light came on, Ifeared my benign neglect had finally comehome to roost. So I bucked up, called my localmechanic, and made the arrangements to dropoff the Honda. Then I waited for a moredetailed assessment of the damage done. A fewdays later, I got the call. I’ll spare you the detailssince I can’t explain them anyway; but therepairs were going to cost around $1000, asgood as could be expected for a 17 year-oldcar with 95,000 miles on the odometer.
However, what I am most excited aboutconcerning this outcome is — yes ‘excited’ isthe right word — that for the first time in years Iwon’t have to face down warning lights in mycar and alarm bells in my head about whatpotential car trouble and expense I’ve beenputting off and likely making worse. And mostimportantly, no longer having to exercise theinordinate self-control required to ignore thesewarning lights and not to be corrupted by theirrelentless — literally and figuratively — remind-ers. It’s almost as if I can face reality again,breathe normally and not feel under siege.
Having only driven the car barely two mileshome since I picked it up from “Tony’s,” I can’tyet say driving is fun. However, I can admit thatdriving will be less irritating, will require lessmental discipline and when I look down at mycar’s dashboard, I will not long for a bygone eraof dashboard neutrality. Once again, as if theHonda is under dealer warranty, I will not seeany indicators/lights of something I’ve neglectedto do or of repairs I’m unable to afford.
As much as I’d like to think I’m fairly well-adjusted and know how to process and priori-tize things in my life, having cancer does seemto alter these processes and priorities. Andwhen something simple and/or unexpectedhappens in your life which allows you to regainyour composure and equilibrium, it helps thatmuch more to assimilate the cancer-relatedconditions, effects and challenges you’ve cometo expect. Not that I thought much about thiseventuality when I dropped off the car at“Tony’s,” but now, having not seen any lights, Ifeel unburdened, as if a weight has been takenoff my shoulders and out of my head.Moreover, when you’re living in the cancerbubble, burdens expected — and otherwise —tend to pile up — and on — and when one isable to catch a break/brake along the way, thepositive effect is disproportionate to reality. Itmeans so much even though it may seem likeso little. Whether it’s regaining some control,solving a non-cancer-related problem or cross-ing an item off a to-do list; living one’s life withas few distractions as possible, generally speak-ing, will likely result in some comfort and joy;not the movie, but the peace of mind.
“Idiot” No More;Well, Sort Of Zone 6 Ad Deadline:
Monday Noon
703-778-9411
Zone 6: • Arlington • Great Falls
• McLean • Vienna/Oakton
Home & GardenHome & GardenCONTRACTORS.comconnectionnewspapers.com
Recessed LightingCeiling FansPhone/CATVComputer Network CablingService UpgradesHot Tubs, etc…
Office 703-335-0654Mobile 703-499-0522
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Our Prices Are Tough to BeatOur Quality is Guaranteed!
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A&S Landscaping
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Serving All of N. Virginia
• All Concrete work• Retaining Walls • Patios• Decks • Porches (incl. screened) • Erosion & Grading Solutions• French Drains • Sump Pumps• Driveway Asphalt Sealing
Power WashingGo from green to clean, do you have
mold on your siding rotten wood that’sa hoa voilation? We do houses, decks,fences, side walks, etc. Deck and fence
repair, deck staining and sealing.Licensed & Insured • Free Estimates
email: [email protected]
703-987-5096
Remodeling Homes, Flooring,Kitchen & Bath, Windows,
Siding, Roofing, Additions &Patios, Custom Deck, PaintingWe Accept All Major Credit Cards
Licensed, Insured, Bonded • Free Estimates • Class A Lic
RN. CONTRACTORS, INC.
Phone: 703-887-3827E-mail: [email protected]
www.rncontractors.com
J.E.S. ServicesYour neighborhood company since 1987
703-912-6886
Landscaping & Construction
All work Guaranteed
• Planting & Landscaping Design• Drainage & Water Problems• Concrete Driveways, Replacement or New• Patios and Walks • Masonry Work or Dry Laid• Paver, Flagstone, Brick, any style you choose• Retaining walls of all types
Free Estimates - Fully Licensed & Insured
LAWN SERVICE LAWN SERVICE
WILLIAMS PLUMBING& RemodelingNo Job too small
Toilets, disposals, leaks, sump pumps, faucets
Lic & Ins 25 yrs exp24 hour service.
571-263-6405
PLUMBING PLUMBING
Partial or Full. Kit. Floors, Backsplashes.Specializing in Ceramic, Porcelain, Glass Tiles
and Natural Stones. Also repair work. 35 yrs exp.
BATHROOM REMODELING
703-250-2872Licensed • Bonded • Insured
www.brennan-tile.com
by Brennan Bath and Tile
TILE/MARBLE TILE/MARBLE
Quality Tree Service& Landscaping
Reasonable prices. Licensed & insured.
24 Hour EmergencyTree Service
25 years of experience – Free estimates 703-868-5358
Summer Cleanup...Tree removal, topping & pruning,shrubbery trimming, mulching,leaf removal, planting, hauling,gutter cleaning, retaining walls,
drainage problems, etc.
TREE SERVICE TREE SERVICE
LANDSCAPING
SOD, Mulch, Clean-UpLeaf Removal
Hauling.703-863-7465
A&S CONSTRUCTIONDo what
you can, withwhat you have,where you are.
-TheodoreRoosevelt
It’s Never Too Early to schedule your pool opening for 2017
Call Jonathan Ruhe & Teamat Anthony & Sylvan Pools
Opening and Closing Packages(4th season free if booked before April 1)
Annual Pool Maintenance Contracts 10% OFF if booked by April.
703-803-7374 Ext. 3140
LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING
EmploymentEmployment
PART-TIME RETAILEnergetic and friendly individual needed
for busy backyard naturestore in the Reston area. Must have knowledge of backyard birds and be
customer service oriented. 15-20 hours per week. Weekday & weekend
hours required. ph 703-403-1283
Educational InternshipsUnusual opportunity to learn manyaspects of the newspaper business.Internships available in reporting,photography, research, graphics.Opportunities for students, and foradults considering change of career.Unpaid. E-mail [email protected]
For a free digital sub-scription to one or allof the 15 ConnectionNewspapers, go towww.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe
Complete digital rep-lica of the print edition,including photos andads, delivered weeklyto your e-mail box.
Questions? E-mail:[email protected]
Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 ❖ 11www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Zone 6 Ad Deadline:
Monday Noon
703-778-9411
Zone 6: • Arlington • Great Falls
• McLean • Vienna/OaktonClassifiedClassified
21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements
Public Notice: Proposal to Voluntarily Remediate a
Property
There is contamination from Petroleum impacted soil on site at Gilliam Place, 3507 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204
The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is working with Gilliam Place LLC c/o Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH) to develop a Remedial Action Plan to address cleanup of petroleum hydrocarbons at the site. If you have any questions regarding the cleanup please contact Vincent Maiden, P.G., Virginia Department of Environmental Quality,Northern Regional Office, 629 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23218, [email protected] or Jason Beck, C.P.G, Senior Environmental Project Manager, ECS Midd-Atlantic, LLC, 703-471-8400, [email protected]
As part of the remedial action process a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) was submitted to the Northern Regional Office of DEQ on January 10, 2017, which allows for corrective action at the property to begin immediately. If you would like to review or discuss the proposed RAP with the staff of DEQ, please feel free to contact the Corrective Action Project Manager, VincentMaiden, whose contact information is listed above. You may also contact Jason Beck, the environmental consultant for Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, whose contact information is listed above. DEQ will consider written comments regarding the proposed Remedial Action Plan untilFebruary 24, 2017 and may decide to hold a public meeting if there is a significant public interest. Written comments should be sent to DEQ at the address listed above. DEQ requests that all written comments reference the tracking number for this case; VRP Case # 00664.
Respectfully submitted,
ECS MID-ATLANTIC, LLC on behalf of ARLINGTON PARTNERSHIP FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
21 Announcements 21 Announcements
We pay top $ for STERLING, MEN'S WATCHES,
JEWELRY, COSTUME JEWELRY, FURNITURE, PAINTINGS AND CLOCKS.
Schefer Antiques703-241-0790
26 Antiques 26 Antiques
JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995
➣ Speed Up SlowComputers
➣ Virus Removal➣ Computer Setup➣ Help with Windows 8 & 10
571-265-2038
HDICOMPUTER SOLUTIONS
101 Computers 101 Computers
LEGAL NOTICEStorage Line of Virginia, LLC (t/a APT Storage), Box 767, Haymarket, VA 20168, pursuant to the assertion of a lien for rental of a storage unit, will hold a public auction for the sale of all goods in storage unit #407B to take place at 11:30 am on Thursday, February 23, 2017, at storage unit #407B located at Sacramento Square, 5401 Claymont Dr, Alexandria, VA 22309, to satisfy the lien. All terms of the sale are cash. Call 800-217-4280 for questions.
21 Announcements 21 Announcements
CLASSIFIEDDEADLINESZones 1, 5, 6 ....................Mon @ noonZones 2, 3, 4 ....................Tues @ noon
E-mail ad with zone choices to: [email protected] or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411
EMPLOYMENTDEADLINES
Zones 1, 5, 6 ....................Mon @ noonZones 2, 3, 4 ....................Tues @ noon
E-mail ad with zone choices to: [email protected] or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411
Newspapers & Online
HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO
ZONESZone 1: The Reston Connection The Oak Hill/Herndon ConnectionZone 2: The Springfield Connection The Burke Connection The Fairfax Connection The Fairfax Station/Clifton/ Lorton ConnectionZone 3: The Alexandria Gazette Packet
The Mount Vernon Gazette
Zone 4: Centre View North Centre View SouthZone 5: The Potomac AlmanacZone 6: The Arlington Connection
The Vienna/OaktonConnection
The McLean ConnectionThe Great Falls
Connection
The biggest things are always the easiest to do because there
is no competition.-William Van Horne
Bulletin Board
Faith Notes are for announcements and events inthe faith community. Send to [email protected]. Deadline is Friday at noon.
Passages DivorceCare If you are experienc-ing the pain of separation or divorce, the caringcommunity at Vienna Presbyterian Church invitesyou to attend Passages DivorceCare. This programoffers a path toward healing. The next 15-weekDivorceCare series will be held Tuesdays from 6:45to 9 p.m. beginning on Feb. 21.
Vienna Presbyterian Church is located on thecorner of Maple Avenue (Rt. 123) and Park Streetin Vienna. Cost to cover materials is $20, scholar-ships available. For more information or to registercall 703-938-9050, go to www.viennapres.org, orsend an email to [email protected].
The S.P.O.T for Youth Wednesday’s at 7p.m. A place where youth can come together andpray, ask questions about the faith and receivementorship. The spot is a ministry of First Baptist
Church of Vienna located at 450 Orchard St. NW,Vienna.
First Baptist Church of Vienna located at450 Orchard St. NW, Vienna. Sunday services areheld at 7:45 and 10 a.m. weekly. Wednesday Nightwith the Family service is held at 6 p.m. followedby corporate singing at 7 p.m. Bible studies takeplace Tuesday’s at noon.
Wesley United Methodist Church locatedat 711 Spring Street SE, Vienna, at the corner ofSpring Street and Moore Avenue. 10:30 a.m. –Fel-lowship time in the fellowship hall, 11 a.m.Traditional family worship in sanctuary.
Church of the Holy Comforter, 543 BeulahRoad, NE, Vienna offers a monthly Healing Eucha-rist with the Laying on of Hands and Anointing forHealing (first Sunday of the month, 5 p.m. at St.Mary’s Chapel. Cntact the Rev. Valerie Hayes [email protected].
From Page 5
Faith
Town Council on matters relating to theadvancement of public art in Town. Go towww.viennava.gov for more.
SATURDAY/FEB. 25Community Tax Assistance Day. Deloitte
presents its 10th annual Community TaxAssistance Day or Volunteer Income TaxAssistance Day (VITA) to serve qualifiedindividuals and families. Deloitte employee/volunteers will assist families with 2016 Federaland state tax returns for households with a totalincome of $54,000 or less. Translations servicesin Spanish, Korean and Vietnamese will beprovided. In addition, American Sign Languageinterpreters will be available. Location is FairfaxSkillSource Center, Heritage Center, 7611 LittleRiver Turnpike, Annandale. Appointments arerecommended: [email protected] or call 703-246-3896. Walk ins are welcome. Visitwww.nvacash.org. On tax preparation day,clients should bring all pertinent documentation.For a complete list, visitwww.volunteerfairfax.org.
MONDAY/FEB. 27Town Council Meeting. 8-10:30 p.m. at Town
Hall, 127 Center St. S. Individuals are invited toattend and provide their input. Go towww.viennava.gov for more.
The U.S. Small Business Administration isreminding businesses in Virginia that workingcapital loans are still available to smallbusinesses, small agricultural cooperatives,small businesses engaged in aquaculture andprivate nonprofit organizations affected by thesevere storms and tornadoes on Feb. 24, 2016.Deadline to file is March 7, 2017. https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. www.sba.gov/[email protected].
VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDShepherd’s Center of McLean-Arlington-
Falls Church, 1205 Dolley Madison Blvd.,McLean continues to have an urgent need fornew volunteers to help area senior citizens getto and from their medical and therapyappointments. To find out more about theShepherd’s Center and how you can volunteer toprovide transportation and other services, callthe Center at 703-506-2199 or e-mail the Centerat [email protected]. The Center’s website iswww.scmafc.org
THURSDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 2-4Friends of the Tysons-Pimmit Regional
Library Quarterly Book Sale. Books andmedia for all interests and ages, Thursday, 11a.m. - 5 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Adult bagsale $10/bag; Saturday, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. KidsBag Sale $10/bag. 7700 Leesburg Pike FallsChurch. [email protected]; 703-338-3307.
THROUGHOUT MARCH 2017Free Public Service Seminars. March 1, 8, 15,
21, 29, at 7 p.m. on Selling Your Home, Aging inPlace, Downsizing, Retirement CommunitiesSeminars. Free public service seminars onSelling Your Home (March 1, McLean HighSchool, 1633 Davidson Rd., McLean), WorkingWith Builders (March 8, Falls Church HS, 7521Jaguar Trail, Falls Church), Financing YourRetirement (March 15, Marshall HS, 7731Leesburg Pike, Falls Church), Tax & EstatePlanning (March 21, Madison HS, 2500 JamesMadison Dr., Vienna), and Decluttering &Organizing (March 29, Oakton HS, 2900 SuttonRd., Vienna). For more information and seminarregistration go to RetireeRealEstate.org, or call703-772-3033.
ONGOINGThe Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a
senior women’s softball league, is looking forplayers. Any woman over the age of 40 isencouraged to join. All skill levels are welcome.The games are on Wednesday evenings andSaturday mornings in Vienna. For moreinformation, visit www.goldengirls.org
Are You A Caregiver? Shepherd’s Center ofOakton Vienna Caregivers’ SupportGroup takes place first & third Thursday ofeach month. February 2nd and 16th, 2017 from10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Join us at theUnitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax(UUCF) - Program Building, 2709 Hunter MillRd, Oakton, VA. For more info contactfacilitator, Jack Tarr, [email protected].
Volunteers Needed. PRS is looking forempathetic and caring volunteers to make phonecalls to older adults who may be feeling sociallyisolated. The commitment is one 3-hour shift perweek for one year. Located in Arlington. Ages 21& up. Intensive training provided. Learn moreand apply: https://prsinc.org/carering-volunteering/. Questions? [email protected].
The Northern Virginia Long Term CareOmbudsman Program needs volunteeradvocates for residents in nursing homes andassisted living facilities. Contact Lisa Callahan at703-324-5861, TTY 711 or [email protected]. Also visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/ltcombudsman/.
Fairfax County needs volunteers to drive olderadults to medical appointments andwellness programs. For these and othervolunteer opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY711 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadultsand click on Volunteer Solutions.
Respite Care volunteers give family caregivers ofa frail older adult a well-deserved break so theycan go shopping, attend a doctor’s appointmentor just have coffee with a friend. Volunteers visitand oversee the safety of the older adult for afew hours each month. Support and training areprovided. Contact 703-324-7577, TTY 711, [email protected].
Vienna Toastmasters. 2nd and 4th Wednesdaysfrom 7:30-9 p.m., at the Vienna CommunityCenter on the 2nd floor room opposite theelevator, 120 Cherry St., S.E., Vienna. A friendlyplace to get comfortable with public speakingand impromptu speaking for new andexperienced speakers. Open to the public.
12 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ February 15-21, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
From Page 3
ing to do what was best for my children.”
AT THE AUGUST 2016 graduation cer-emony when the Morrobels first metErickson, older son Ethan was chosenamong all of the owners-to-be in trainingto deliver a speech. Ethan “nailed” his ad-dress, according to Weigand, in which heeloquently spoke on behalf of all the Ca-nine Companions dog recipients to conveycollective gratitude.
“My brother, Gavin, and I have been wait-ing our whole lives for this moment,” Ethansaid toward the end of his speech. “On be-
half of the August 2016 graduating class, Iwould like to thank the entire CCI organi-zation. The support and hospitality from thevolunteers was amazing… And then therewere the instructors… We feel like you havegiven us super powers. Kind of appropriateas we watch the Olympics and the incred-ible performances of the athletes in theirindividual events… these dogs have beenmatched individually to us and are our goldmedals.”
Pamela Morrobel said that, even as of to-day, Erickson has undoubtedly proven in-valuable to her sons. While Erickson haseased the physical challenges of Ethan’s andGavin’s daily lives in some ways, the emo-
tional support he provides is what her boysneed most during these formative, pre- andearly teenage years.
“What Erickson does for their emotionalwellbeing is what has been so critical,”Morrobel said. “He has helped them withall the adjustments they have been goingthrough since we moved here from Canadatwo-and-a-half years ago. With new schools,new friends, and an overall new peer groupin which they aren’t always involved,Erickson makes it so that neither Ethan norGavin is ever alone at home. At their ages,it’s crucial for them to maintain self-esteemand to go out into the world with confidence.I’m proud to say that my kids are advocates
for themselves, and Erickson really contrib-utes to them being so self-assured.”
Morrobel said there is no question thatthe inevitable added responsibilities of adog are outweighed by the lifetime of tre-mendous benefits she knows Erickson willbring to her sons.
“Ethan and Gavin have the primary re-sponsibility of exercising, feeding andgrooming Erickson,” she said. “I pick upslack sometimes, but, it’s mostly up to them.I’m continually amazed by everythingErickson can do. For me, it’s like having athird child that actually listens. And, it’shard to articulate in words just how muchhe means to the boys.”
The most recent accomplishments of in-dividual students and student teamsfrom The Nysmith School for the Giftedcontinue a string of competit ive
achievements.Here are a few of the activities/results:
A total of 10 of Nysmith students have ad-vanced to the National History Bee Regional Finals,April 24 in Richmond, where the top middle schoolersin the region compete head-to-head answering ques-tions split evenly between United States and non-U.S. history. Coached by Philip Baselice of Fairfax,the team includes:
❖ Anuraag Kaashyap (eighth grader fromHerndon)
❖ Andrew Chen (eighth/Fairfax)❖ Justin Ward (eighth/Vienna)❖ Vance Kreider (eighth/Herndon)❖ Misha Brancato (seventh/Alexandria)❖ Quinn Griffith (seventh/Oak Hill)❖ Neal Gupta (seventh/Vienna)❖ Elise Bejtlich (sixth/Manassas)❖ Aaron Joy (sixth/Herndon)❖ Irene Zhao (sixth/Fairfax)
The Nysmith “MATHCOUNTS” team finishedsecond in its Chapter last weekend and will be par-ticipating in the Virginia State event on April 4 inGlen Allen, Va. MATHCOUNTS is a national middleschool competitive program that promotes math-ematics achievement through a series of engaging“bee-style” events. The Nysmith team is coached byJoMarie Broccoli of Herndon and the advancing stu-dents include:
❖ Whitman Ochiai, top score on team (eighthgrader from Great Falls)
❖ Kaien Yang (eighth/Chantilly)❖ Anuraag Kaashyap (eighth/Herndon)❖ Anand Advani (seventh/Herndon)
Several Nysmith debaters scored impressiveresults in recent competitions.
❖ Among the students competing in this pastweekend’s DC Urban Debate League Tournament,coached by Marlene Laro of McLean: Alex Joel(eighth grader from McLean) and Caroline Huber
(eighth /Great Falls), placed first in the Varsity Divi-sion. Two sixth graders, Aaron Joy of Herndon andBen Joel of McLean, emerged victorious in the Nov-ice Division.
Another group of Nysmith debaters took thirdplace in the Holy Trinity Public Forum Debate Tour-nament. Under the direction of coach Maria-TheresaDragg of Herndon, the winning team includesMcKenzie Hiek (seventh grader from Great Falls),Sarang Arun (seventh/Fairfax) and Emma Jing (sev-enth/Oak Hill).
The Warhawk Varsity IceHockey team is headed tothe playoffs as division
champions with their 4-3 win overMcLean Feb. 3. Goals were scoredby forwards Kamron Sarmadi andLuke Pohlman each with twoapiece. Assists came from JasonCalem and Jeff Hunter. TheWarhawks scored first but McLeanwould tie and then lead midway
thru the second period. Late in thesecond, Madison tied the gameand after a mostly scoreless 3rd
period, the Warhawks scored thego-ahead goal late in the third.Shots were 24 for the Warhawksand 27 for the Highlanders. TheWarhawks finished the regularseason with an 8-2 record. TheWarhawks get a bye week beforethe first round of playoffs.
Madison Ice Hockey WinsDivision Championship
NewsSports
Erickson III Provides Support for Two Jersey Brothers
Photos by Khy Sweeney
Forward Luke Pohlman threads a shot between theMcLean defense towards McLean’s net. The Warhawkssecured the division title with their 4-3 win over McLean.Pohlman scored two goals.
Team Captain Kamron Sarmadi gets a shot off towardsMcLean’s net. The Warhawks secured the division titlewith their 4-3 win over McLean. Sarmadi scored two goals.
Nysmith School StudentsExcel in Competitions
Nysmith School debaters, from left: AaronJoy, Caroline Huber, Alex Joel and Ben Joel.
Photos contributed
The Nysmith “MATHCOUNTS” team, fromleft: Whitman Ochiai, Anand Advani,Anuraag Kaashyap, Kaien Yang and coachJoMarie Broccoli.
