McKay Named Citizen of the Yearconnection.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/...Dec 17, 2019  ·...

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Rebranding Complete at Springfield Golf and Countr y Club News, Page 6 Merry Christmas Editorial, Page 4 McKay Named Citizen of the Year News, Page 3 Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce named Supervisor Jeff McKay Chamber Citizen of the Year. McKay is the outgoing supervisor: he was sworn in as Chair- man of the Board of Supervisors Monday. online at www.connectionnewspapers.com December 19-25, 2019 Follow on Twitter: @SprConnection Photo by Mike Salmon/The Connection Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, Page 8 v Classifieds, Page 10

Transcript of McKay Named Citizen of the Yearconnection.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/...Dec 17, 2019  ·...

Page 1: McKay Named Citizen of the Yearconnection.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/...Dec 17, 2019  · every passing year, but the Greater Springfield Chamber of ... a Rotarian in Springfield.

Rebranding Complete atSpringfield Golf and Country ClubNews, Page 6

Merry ChristmasEditorial, Page 4

McKay NamedCitizen of the Year

News, Page 3

Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce named Supervisor Jeff

McKay Chamber Citizen of the Year. McKay is the outgoing supervisor: he was sworn in as Chair-

man of the Board of Supervisors Monday.

online at www.connectionnewspapers.com December 19-25, 2019

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Page 2: McKay Named Citizen of the Yearconnection.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/...Dec 17, 2019  · every passing year, but the Greater Springfield Chamber of ... a Rotarian in Springfield.

2 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

NewsSpringfield Connection Editor

Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or

[email protected]

By Mike Salmon

The Connection

In the middle of the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber Awards, all the speechesand awards pictures stopped for theimpromptu ugly holiday sweater,

competition, which gave way to a few jokesand chuckles amongst the tightly knitgroup. That’s the spirit that makes thechamber what it is, embracing and support-ing the companies in Mount Vernon and thesurrounding area.

After the sweater winner, who was judgedby the applause level, all eyes turned toSupervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee) who wasnamed the Chamber Citizen of the Year.

McKay is actually the outgoing supervi-sor, and was recently elected as the Chair-man of the Board of Supervisors, where he’lltake the reins in January after being swornin on Monday, Dec. 16. He didn’t forget hislife in Lee District where he grew up andworked for years, promising lots for thesouth county area.

“Great things coming to south county inthe next four years,” McKay said at the po-dium. “We’re going to invest $1 billion forEmbark, I guarantee you that’s going tohappen,” he said.

McKay’s award capped off the chamber’s“Best in Business Excellence,” awards wherecompanies and people all over the Lee-Mount Vernon area were recognized forachievements. The rising star award wasgiven to two people this year; Dr. JosephStoltz of George Washington’s MountVernon, and Travis Clarke. Mark Murraywas named the new chamber president for2020; Links 2 Freedom was named the non-profit of the year; Harmony Animal Hospi-tal was named the new business of the yearand the best of excellence award was Links2 Freedom.

Several other elected officials were at theevent, including Del. Paul Krizek (D-44),Del. Mark Sickles (D-43), Supervisor DanStorck (D-Mount Vernon), McKay and arepresentative from Rep. Don Beyer’s (D-8) office.

“It’s a nice way for the community to rec-ognize community business leaders doinga super job,” said Krizek.

Moving On UpThe 2019 chamber president Stan Koussis

started out the event noting that Virginia isranked as the best state for doing business,up from their ranking of eighth in 2014.“That is because of all the work that is done

By Mike Salmon

The Connection

The Hunter Hotel was a piece oflocal history that fades withevery passing year, but the

Greater Springfield Chamber ofCommerce keeps the memory alivewith the Herb Hunter Citizen of theYear award. This year the Hunter

Awards ceremony at Mount VernonCountry Club ends the chamber’s year.

Mount Vernon-Lee ChamberRecognizes the Best

Photos by Mike Salmon/The Connection

Outgoing chamber president Stan Koussis and Supervisor Jeff McKay.

throughout the state,” he said. “As businessleaders and managers, we’re part of a largerecosystem,” he added.

Supervisor McKay noted the achieve-ments that were implemented in Lee Dis-trict to “help promote and build our com-munity,” including the work at HuntleyMeadows Park, putting in Jeff Todd Way andattracting the Transportation Security Ad-ministration, coming to a new building nearthe Franconia-Springfield Metro Station.McKay was accompanied by his wife andparents.

Supervisor Jeff McKayChamber Citizen of the Year

Supervisor Jeff McKay is the 2019 Cham-ber Citizen of the Year. Jeff has been a Cham-ber member since he was elected as Lee Dis-trict Supervisor. He has been a great friendand supporter to the business community.Recognize Jeff as he becomes chairman of

the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

Springfield Town Center is LargeBusiness of the Year

Springfield Town Center is the center-piece of Lee District revitalization and oneof the most valuable properties in FairfaxCounty. It is a regional shopping destina-tion and home to stores, restaurants, andentertainment.

2019 Distinguished BusinessesSpringfield Town CenterDe Lune Corp.Belle Haven MarinaLinks 2 FreedomHarmony Animal Hospital

Rising StarsTravis Clarke, Burke & Herbert BankDr. Joseph Stoltz, George Washington’s

Mount Vernon

award went to Steve Cook, a Rotarian inSpringfield.

The award is named after the owner ofthe former Hunter Hotel, who was knownfor his philanthropy and community spiritbefore being gunned down during arobbery. Cook was awarded at theChamber’s Annual Dinner on Dec. 5 at theHilton Springfield.

Cook’s award capped off a night in which

several individuals and companies werehonored: Greenspring Village, CorporateCitizen of the Year; Kenan Aden, ChiefOperating Officer for MVLE, the Robert J.McDonough Businessperson of the Year;Virginia Tire and Auto, the Arthur E.Morrissette Top Hat. Service Award; AnneWardinski of Lake Braddock SecondarySchool, the Public Service Award; andCalibre Systems Inc., the Nancy-Jo Manney

Chamber Advocate Award.The event also marked the swearing

in of Lauma Wingrove of Calibre as the2020 Chamber Board of Directors chairand new board members Suzie Mills ofHonest Soul Yoga, Lisa McCarthy ofBrain Injury Services and DakotaSnyder of Courtyard by MarriottSpringfield, by 2019 Chair Tom Pfeiferof Consistent Voice Communications.

Businesses and Efforts Recognized at Chamber Awards Ceremony

Steve Cook accepts the Hunter award. Kenan Aden gets the Businessperson of the Year award.

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4 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Opinion

The pages of the Connection (includ-ing the Alexandria Gazette Packet,the Mount Vernon Gazette, thePotomac Almanac and the Centre

View) have been full of holiday spirit, begin-ning before Thanksgiving. Help for the needy,holiday parades, Santa and more Santa; treelightings, stories of giving, the Nutcracker.

Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ.Whether you believe the Christmas story liter-ally or in spirit, you know it is the story of joy,hope and love, with the promise of redemp-tion.

It is also about embracing the teachings ofJesus: to love thy neighbor as thyself; to helpthe needy; to feed the hungry and clothe thepoor; to care for those who are sick; toinvite and welcome strangers; to treatothers as you would have them treatyou.

Matthew 7:12:“So in everything, do to others what you

would have them do to you.”

Matthew 25:35-40:“For I was hungry and you gave me some-

thing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave mesomething to drink, I was a stranger and youinvited me in, I needed clothes and you clothedme, I was sick and you looked after me, I wasin prison and you came to visit me.’

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord,when did we see you hungry and feed you, orthirsty and give you something to drink? Whendid we see you a stranger and invite you in, or

needing clothes and clothe you? When did wesee you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for oneof the least of these brothers and sisters ofmine, you did for me.’”

SO SHARE the verse relating the birth of Jesusfrom the Bible, Luke 2: 4-19:

“And Joseph also went up from Galilee, outof the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto thecity of David, which is called Bethlehem; (be-cause he was of the house and lineage ofDavid.) To be taxed with Mary his espousedwife, being great with child. And so it was, that,while they were there, the days were accom-plished that she should be delivered. And she

brought forth her firstborn son, andwrapped him in swaddling clothes, andlaid him in a manger; because therewas no room for them in the inn.

“And there were in the same country, shep-herds abiding in the field, keeping watch overtheir flock by night. And, lo, the angel of theLord came upon them, and the glory of theLord shone round about them: and they weresore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fearnot: for, behold, I bring you good tidings ofgreat joy, which shall be to all people.

“For unto you is born this day in the city ofDavid, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Andthis shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find thebabe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in amanger.

“And suddenly there was with the angel amultitude of the heavenly host praising God,and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and

on earth peace, good will toward men.“And it came to pass, as the angels were gone

away from them into heaven, the shepherdssaid one to another, Let us now go even untoBethlehem, and see this thing which is cometo pass, which the Lord hath made known untous. And they came with haste, and found Mary,and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.And when they had seen it, they made knownabroad the saying which was told them con-cerning this child. And all they that heard itwondered at those things which were told themby the shepherds.”

— Mary Kimm

[email protected]

Editor’s NoteAbout the Rest of 2019

This is our last regular edition of 2019. Nextweek, after Christmas, we will publish our an-nual Children’s Issue, devoted entirely to theartwork and writing of local students. You’llbe able to find this online while you wait forthe print edition at www.connectionnewspapers.com/PDFs/ Scroll down toChildren’s.

Our next regular edition will publish Jan. 8,2020, with deadline for content and advertis-ing of Jan. 3 (late ads accepted).

In the meantime you can email the editorsat [email protected]. Youcan reach sales/marketing/advertising [email protected].

Digital replica editions of the most recentweek’s papers are available atwww.ConnectionNewspapers.com/PDFs

Past issues of the Connection back to 2008are available at connectionarchives.com/PDF/

Sign up for a free digital subscription atwww.ConnectionNewspapers.com/subscribe

Many local nonprofits are reportinga significant drop in contributionsthis year. To some, the decrease

constitutes an existential threat. Not only willthey be unable to meet their goals for helpingothers, but some might not be able to keeptheir doors open.

This comes as the need is increasing, as theWhite House cuts food stamps, as more peoplego hungry.

This is a perfect time to give, give a littlemore than you have in the past.

The holidays are about giving, and givingthanks.

There are people going hungry here, peoplewho need help, organizations that will help,but can only help with the resources they have.

There are literally hundreds, probably thou-sands, of ways to give locally this season, forhumans in need, for animals in need, for anenvironment in need. Here are a few ideas.

— Mary Kimm,

[email protected]

Where to Give Locally❖ Assistance League of Northern Virginia is an

all-volunteer nonprofit organization that feeds,clothes and educates children in need. AssistanceLeague’s philanthropic programs touch the lives ofthousands of children at 11 Title I schools inNorthern Virginia, serving children most in need atselected schools in Fairfax and Prince Williamcounties and the City of Alexandria. To learn moreabout volunteer and sponsorship opportunities,contact [email protected] or visit www.alnv.org

❖ Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater WashingtonFairfax Area operates clubs in two of the neediestareas of the county, Culmore, Mount Vernon/ Route1 corridor, and Chantilly, focusing on character andacademic success. https://www.bgcgw.org/club-page/fairfax-county-region-our-impact/

❖ Britepaths Britepaths is working to assist 500Fairfax County area families who might otherwisego without holiday meals and gifts for theirchildren. Sponsor a family or donate to provide afamily with a holiday meal and/or gifts for theirchildren. Britepaths.org https://britepaths.org/our-programs/holiday-program

❖ Centreville Immigration Forum, a safe,organized center where residents and contractorscan negotiate work arrangements with day laborers.Centreville Square Shopping Center, 5944Centreville Crest Ln, Centreville, VA 20121. Phone:(703) 543-6272 website:www.centrevilleimmigrationforum.org and [email protected]

❖ Committee for Helping Others (CHO), Vienna,organized in 1969 by a group of churches andindividuals in the Dunn Loring, Merrifield, Oakton,Vienna community to provide simple, loving charityto those in need. Coming up, holiday bike drive.703-281-7614, www.cho-va.com

❖ Community Foundation of Northern Virginiawww.cfnova.org The Community Foundation forNorthern Virginia works to respond to critical needand seed innovation in our region. Your gift helps usmake grants in our focus areas of interest while alsobringing a spotlight on the benefits of communityphilanthropists www.cfnova.org/for-donors/donate-now

❖ Cornerstones, 11150 Sunset Hills Road, Suite 210,Reston, serving Reston and Herndon. 571-323-9555,www.cornerstonesva.org.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one ofthe least of these brothers and sisters of mine,you did for me.”

Merry Christmas

Give Locally Families face uncertainty and need;nonprofits face drop in contributions.

See Give for Local impact, Page 10

Editorial

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

@SprConnect

An independent, locally owned weeklynewspaper delivered tohomes and businesses.

Published byLocal Media Connection LLC

1606 King StreetAlexandria, Virginia 22314

Free digital edition delivered toyour email box. Go to

connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe

NEWS DEPARTMENT:[email protected]

Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414

[email protected]

Andrea WorkerContributing Writer

[email protected]

Jean CardProduction Editor

[email protected]

ADVERTISING:For advertising information

e-mail:[email protected]

703-778-9431

Steve HoganDisplay Advertising, 703-778-9418

[email protected]

Debbie FunkNational Sales703-778-9444

[email protected]

David GriffinMarketing Assistant

[email protected]

Classified & EmploymentAdvertising703-778-9431

Editor & PublisherMary Kimm

[email protected]@MaryKimm

Executive Vice PresidentJerry Vernon

[email protected]

Managing EditorKemal Kurspahic

Art/Design:Laurence Foong, John Heinly,

Ali KhalighProduction Manager:

Geovani Flores

CIRCULATIONCirculation Manager:

Ann [email protected]

Springfield

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Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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6 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

By Mike Salmon

The Connection

The $1 million Springfield Golfand Country Club modificationsfinished up just in time for theholiday season as the new look,

brightened rooms, new lighting and furni-ture came just in time for the coming holi-day parties, galas and celebrations for mem-bers and the surrounding community at thistime of year.

“The response has been overwhelming,”said Dawn Siebenhaar, the membership di-rector.

The work started last year, modernizingthe look and moving away from the tradi-tional country club look. Upgrades includeda new chandelier in the main ballroom, anew bar top and lighting in the grill, lighterpaint shades, new carpet and upgradedseating in several of the existing rooms.

In the bar for example, there are new glassglobe lights above a new marble bar, andthey did away with the booths so the tablescan be inviting, possibly enhancing mem-ber meet-ups. “We took the bulkiness outof the room,” said Bassam Medawar, thegeneral manager. “The booths were veryconfining,” added Siebenhaar. The bar now

has multiple flat screen televisions thatwork well on Sunday afternoon footballdays.

In the restaurant, the menu is shiftingwith the seasons, and they feature a tradi-tional crab cake meal that is a member fa-vorite, as well as the “Springfield Dip,” a

warm dish that is “perfect for this time ofyear,” said s Siebenhaar.

On the porch, the furniture was updatedand heaters installed so members can en-joy the outdoors throughout the colder sea-sons.

In the pro shop, the in-house pro, LizCooper, was awarded this year with theNational Player Development award for the

PGA, and noted for her programs such as“Wine, women and wedges,” and “InviteHer,” for newcomers. In September, the clubis sponsoring the “Legends Tour,” for theLadies Pro Golf Association.

A new, on-line tee time system was partof the renovations and has a feature somembers can see other members that areplaying so they can join them or meet af-terwards. “They don’t have to wait for thepro shop to open,” said Siebenhaar.

Upgraded interior moves away from traditional country club features.

Rebranding Complete at Springfield Golf and Country Club

Furniture and lighting were upgraded in this room that looks out to thegolf course.

General Manager Bassam Medawar with Jennifer Kazmi, Director ofCatering and Special Events on the left and Dawn Siebenhaar, Member-ship Director, on right.

Holiday treats for a “Brunch With Santa,” activity.

A new chandelier.

In the Pro Shop, a vintage Springfield ornament on the tree.

In the grill, the bar top and lights are new, and there were bigscreen televisions added and booths taken out for a more conversa-tional atmosphere.

Photos by Mike Salmon/The Connection

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Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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8 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Holiday Entertainment

See Calendar, Page 9

Photo by DJ Corey Photography/Courtesy Fairfax Symphony and Fairfax Ballet

The “Snow” scene creates a winter wonderland in the Fairfax Sym-phony and Fairfax Ballet 2018 production of “The Nutcracker.”

‘The Nutcracker’ at Center for the ArtsFairfax Symphony Orchestra and Fairfax Ballet present Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” at Center

for the Arts, Concert Hall, George Mason University Campus, 4374 Mason Pond, Drive, Fairfax.Performances: Saturday, Dec 21 and Sunday, Dec 22 at 4 p.m. Tickets: $49, $69 and $89. Call703-993-2787 or visit www.fairfaxsymphony.org.

Submit entertainment announcements atwww.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. Thedeadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork en-couraged.

ONGOINGGive the Gift of Original Art. Now thru Jan. 5.

At Torpedo Factory Artists at Mosaic, 2905District Ave., #105, Fairfax. Open Wednesdaythru Sunday 11 – 7 p.m. You can findextraordinary fine art that makes great gifts thisholiday season — the work of highly-acclaimedTorpedo Factory Artists — at their satellite spacein Merrifield. Beautiful paintings, fine-artphotographs, one-of-a-kind jewelry, scarves,ceramics and much more will be offered. Plusyou can get an early start on your holidayshopping. Artists Sonne Hernandez and GregKnott are in residence during this show.

PJ Party + Santa’s Arrival. At Springfield TownCenter, Springfield. Welcome Santa with aPajama Party. Get in the holiday spirit withcaroling, hot coco and watch as Santa arrives instyle with Fairfax police and fire. Now throughDec. 23; Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.;Sunday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Christmas Eve: 9a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oculus: A Place of Unseen. Now thru Feb. 2. AtThe Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 WorkhouseRoad, Lorton. The Workhouse Arts Centerpresents the interactive exhibit Oculus: Of APlace Unseen featuring works of artists ElaineBuss, Edgar Endress, Michelle Repiso and SteveWanna. The use of the word ‘oculus,’ mostknown as an eye-like form in architecture,gestures towards the enlightening narrativesdiscovered throughout the show. Eachreferencing feelings of solitude andcontemplation, the storylines range frominstitutional boundaries to societal oversightsand mantra meditations. Some works are aslight as silk, some as heavy as stone, but theoverall space is quiet — both literally andfiguratively.

NOW THRU DEC. 20Fairfax City Elf Hunt. 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Takes place Fairfax City-wide, start point: OldTown Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax.Locate 10 elves in Fairfax City businesses, get astamp from each business confirming that youfound the elf; share the Fairfax City Elf Huntcard with us [email protected]. Once youhave submitted your Fairfax City Elf Hunt card,you will receive a Fairfax City car magnet andhave your name entered into a drawing for a$250 cash prize. Free to participate; patrons areencouraged to purchase items when they visitbusinesses. Visit the website: https://fairfaxcityconnected.com/2019/10/08/elfhunt/#prettyPhoto

SATURDAY/DEC. 21Tea Tasting. 3-4 p.m. At Pohick Regional Library,

6450 Sydenstricker Road, Burke. Sample avariety of whole leaf hot teas — white, green,oolong and black. Learn how to make authenticmasala chai. Free. For teens and adults. EmailSonal Gosai at [email protected] the website: https://librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/5090800

DEC. 21-22”The Nutcracker.” 4 p.m. At GMU Center for the

Arts, Concert Hall, 4373 Mason Pond Drive,Fairfax. Experience this timeless holiday classicwith the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and theFairfax Ballet – a holiday tradition your familywill always cherish. Enjoy a winter wonderlandof dancing snowflakes, sugar plum fairies andepic battles between heroic toy soldiers andmischievous mice. Tickets: $54-$94. Visit thewebsite: http://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/fairfax-symphony-orchestra-the-nutcracker

NOW THRU DEC. 22ETAP’s “Finding Santa.” 12 show times over 2

weekends, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 7:30p.m., 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. At Richard J. ErnstTheatre, Annandale NOVA Campus, 8333 LittleRiver Turnpike, Annandale. Encore TheatricalArts Project presents a new holiday musical,“Finding Santa.” Cost is $19-$26.This song anddance musical features over 30 performers,

creative choreography, elaborate sets, over 165costumes, and over 16 musical numbers. Comesee all the glamour of a Broadway-style showright here in Northern Virginia. Appropriate foraudiences of all ages Visit the website:www.Encore-tap.org

SUNDAY/DEC. 22Lessons and Carols. 10 a.m. At Historic Pohick

Episcopal Church, 9301 Richmond Highway,Lorton. Historic Pohick Church, the Colonialparish of George Washington and GeorgeMason, will have a Service of Lessons andCarols. This service originated in VictorianEngland in the 1880s as “Lesson and Carols: AFestal Service for Christmastide,” as a series ofscripture readings interspersed with Advent andChristmas carols, hymns and choral anthems,tracing God’s love from the creation of man andwoman in the Garden of Eden, through theannunciation and birth of the Christ Child. Call703-339-6572 or visit http://www.pohick.org .

Chanukah Family Event. 2-5 p.m. At Pozez JCC,8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax. Mostenjoyed by families with kids in kindergarten–middle school, the event includes: ChanukahGames Workshop, 2:30–4 p.m.; The ChanukahGame Show, 4–5 p.m.; and Menorah Lighting, 5p.m. Cost is $15-$20 per family. [email protected].

TUESDAY/DEC. 24Christmas Eve Service. 8-9 p.m. At Harvester

Presbyterian Church, 7800 Rolling Road,Springfield. Join Harvester Presbyterian Churchfor a traditional, candlelight Christmas EveService. Parking is behind the building. Free.Visit the website: www.harvesterpca.org

DEC. 26-27Cold Weather Camps. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At

Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Blvd.,Springfield. Hidden Pond Nature Center isoffering a Pohick Rangers Mini-Camp wherecampers will learn about forest ecology inwinter, animal homes and animal calling. Theywill make wildlife observations on hikes andgain hands-on experience in the field uncoveringthe natural wonders of winter in the PohickStream Valley. For children ages 6 to 12. Thecost is $125 per child. Call 703-451-9588 orvisit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-pond.

DEC. 27-29”The Nutcracker.” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. At Northern

Virginia Community College Annandale Campus,Ernst Community Cultural Center. The Virginia

Ballet Company and School will present its 70thseason of the classic “Nutcracker.” Ticket pricesfor reserved seating are $30 for adults and $20for children, students and seniors, plus a $3 feeper each ticket. Tickets may be purchasedonline at www.vaballet.org. Group pricing forthese 6 performances is available for groups of10 or more for the same performance. Call 703-249-8227.

DEC. 30-JAN. 3Winter Survival Camp. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At

Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Blvd.,Springfield. Kids will face winter head-on at the“Winter Survival Camp” at Hidden Pond.Campers ages 6 to 12 will learn to survive andhave fun with nature’s most challenging seasonas they make fire, build shelter, track animalsand more during this adventure into winterwilderness. The camp runs from Monday,Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The cost is $205per child. Call 703-451-9588 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-pond.

TUESDAY/DEC. 31Country-Western Dance. 8 p.m. to midnight. At

Accotink Universalist Unitarian Church, 10125Lakehaven Court, Burke. The Northern VirginiaCountry-Western Dance Association will hold aNew Year’s Eve dance. A DJ provides music.Couples and singles of all ages welcome.Admission $30; children under 18 accompaniedby a paying adult $20. Smoke-free, alcohol-free.Bring appetizers, side dishes or desserts toshare. Visit www.nvcwda.org .

SUNDAY/JAN. 5Winter Make ‘n Take Craft. 1-4 p.m. At Fairfax

Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax StationRoad, Fairfax Station. Make a snowman or asnowflake snowman wreath at the FairfaxStation Railroad Museum’s first event of 2020.Reservations are not needed and craft suppliesare included with the admission fee. Craftavailable while supplies last. Museum membersand ages 4 and under, free; ages 5-12, $3; ages13 and older, $5; Seniors 65 and older andactive or retired Military, $4. Visit the website:www.fairfax-station.org, www.facebook.com/FFXSRR

SATURDAY, JAN. 11 AND TUESDAY JAN. 14Winter Art Lessons for Youth Classes (8 yrs

& up). Saturday 9:30-10:30 a.m.; Tuesday 5:15-6:15 p.m. at Woods Community Centre, 10100Wards Grove Circle, Burke. Instructor Carol

Zeitlin drawing and watercolor. Visitwww.czartlessons.com for more. Call 703-250-6930.

SATURDAY, JAN. 11 AND TUESDAY, JAN. 14Winter Art Workshop for Teens/Adults.

Saturday 10:30-12:30 p.m.; Tuesday 1:30-3:30p.m. at Woods Community Centre, 10100 WardsGrove Circle, Burke. Instructor Carol Zeitlin,drawing, watercolor, Chinese Brush & portfoliodevelopment.

Visit www.czartlessons.com for more. Call 703-250-6930.

SUNDAY/JAN. 12Personal Tour Day. 1-4 p.m. At Fairfax Station

Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station Road,Fairfax Station. Come have a day at the FairfaxStation Railroad Museum. Let theknowledgeable docents provide personal toursor download the Uniguide Audio Tour andexplore the rich local history of the FairfaxStation. Tours of the Museum will be held every30 minutes. Admission: Museum members andages 4 and under, free; ages 5-12, $3; ages 13and older $5; Seniors 65 and older and active orretired Military, $4. www.fairfax-station.org,www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, 703-425-9225.

TUESDAY, JAN. 14Winter Drawing Plus Color Class (5-8 yrs.).

6:15 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. at Woods CommunityCentre, 10100 Wards Grove Circle, Burke.Instructor Carol Zeitlin, drawing and watercolor.Visit www.czartlessons.com for more.

JAN. 16-19Shen Yun. At GMU Center for the Arts, 4373

Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax. Show times areThursday, Jan. 16 at 2 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 17 at7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 18 at 2 p.m.;Saturday, Jan. 18 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday,Jan. 19 at 2 p.m. Prices starting at $80. ShenYun’s artistic vision expands theatricalexperience into a multi-dimensional, inspiringjourney through one of humanity’s greatesttreasures—the five millennia of traditionalChinese culture. This epic production immersesyou in stories reaching back to the most distantpast. You’ll explore realms even beyond ourvisible world. Featuring one of the world’s oldestart forms— classical Chinese dance—along withpatented scenographic effects and all-originalorchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to acivilization of enchanting beauty andenlightening wisdom.

THURSDAY/JAN. 23ESL Registration. 7-8 p.m. At Lord of Life

Lutheran Church’s two locations: 5114Twinbrook Rd, Fairfax, and 13421 TwinlakesDr., Clifton. Register for ESL classes in Fairfax orClifton/Centreville on Jan. 23. Classes meetTuesdays and Thursdays, 7-9 p.m.,January 28-April 2. Cost is $40 for student text book. Visitthe website: www.lordoflifeva.org

SATURDAY/JAN. 25Alonzo King LINES Ballet. 8 p.m. At GMU

Center for the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Drive,Fairfax. Since 1982, visionary choreographerAlonzo King has been redefining contemporaryballet by creating daring new works that marrythe science of artistic movement with the beautyof other art forms. In his latest collaboration,Figures of Speech, King addresses the fact thatlanguages of the world are vanishing at analarming rate, and draws on the research of poetand activist Bob Holman, pioneer in the slampoetry movement and co-founder of theEndangered Language Alliance. His expressivechoreography takes inspiration from asoundtrack of poetry recited by native speakersof languages nearing extinction and musicplayed on traditional instruments. Cost is $48,$41, $29. https://cfa.gmu.edu/

SUNDAY/JAN. 26Game Day Activities. 1-4 p.m. At Fairfax Station

Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station Road,Fairfax Station. There will be train-relatedgames for all ages and you can win a prize if youplay. Admission: Museum members and ages 4and under, free; ages 5-12, $3; ages 13 andolder, $5; seniors 65 and older and active orretired Military, $4. www.fairfax-station.org,www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, 703-425-9225.

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Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 ❖ 9www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP

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

“loving people to life”

•Christmas Eve Service at 7:30 PM•New Year’s Eve Gathering at 6 PMWorship Gathering – Sunday 8:45 & 11 AM

Sunday School 10:10 AMSun. Evening – Realtime Worship & Youth 6 PM

Family Night – Wednesday 7:15 PMHome Life Groups, College/Young Adult

Ministries, and Living Free Support GroupsVisit our Website: www.jccag.org

bbTo Advertise

Your Community of Worship

Call 703-778-9418

127 N. Washington St., Alexandria • 703-548-4661 Smoke-Free Restaurant

www.lerefugealexandria.com

• Split Pea Soup with Smoked Sausage • Asparagus with Fresh Smoked Trout • Beef Wellington • Rack of Lamb • Bouillabaisse • Dover Sole • Cassoulet • Frog Legs

Holiday Entertainment

Calendar

From Page 8

Keyboard Conversations withJeffrey Siegel. 7 p.m. At GMUCenter for the Arts, 4373 MasonPond Drive, Fairfax. Virtuoso pianistand storyteller extraordinaire JeffreySiegel is popular with classical musiclovers and newcomers alike with hisunique “concerts with commentary”format. Hear some of the mostfamous works by these two popularcomposers who have recently hadanniversary celebrations in themusical world: the 100th anniversaryof the death of Debussy and the 75th

of Rachmaninoff. In this program,Siegel plays Debussy’s Clair de Luneand Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in C-sharp minor as well as colorfulPreludes by both composers. Cost is$44, $37, $26. Family Friendly. Visitthe website: https://cfa.gmu.edu/

WEDNESDAY/JAN. 29Troop Open House. 7-8:30 p.m. At

Wood Community Center, 10100Wards Grove Circle, Burke. ScoutsBSA Troop 1345G will host an OpenHouse for young women (ages 11-17) interested in learning more aboutScouting and its focus on outdooradventure, leadership development,and citizenship skills. Free. Visit thewebsite: http://www.troop1345.org

Beau Soir Ensemble Performs. 7p.m. At Fairfax City Regional Library,10360 North Street, Fairfax. TheBeau Soir Ensemble is a flute, viola,and harp trio dedicated to theperformance of standard andcontemporary repertoire spanning avariety of genres. Free. Call 703-293-6227.

SUNDAY/MARCH 1, 2020Hot Peas ‘n Butter. 1 p.m. At GMU

Center for the Arts, 4373 MasonPond Drive, Fairfax. Praised by theLos Angeles Times for their “hot andmellow multicultural groove,Ó HotPeas ‘n/ Butter will have you andyour whole family on their feetdancing with their infectiously funglobal music celebration. This ParentChoice Award-winning, family musicensemble blends together traditionalLatin music, Afro-Caribbean rhythms,jazz, bluegrass, country, and rock tocreate a “rainbow of color andsound.” (NY 1 TV). Singing inEnglish, Spanish, French, Korean andHebrew, Hot Peas ‘n Butter aims toshow multi-culturalinterconnectedness. Their repertoireof songs like Number 1” and theirsignature Latin beat tracks “SomosFamilia,” “Amistad,” “Que Llueva,”and “Round the World” enjoy radioplay nationwide. Cost is $15 foradults; $10 for children. Visit thewebsite: www.cfa.gmu.edu

ONGOINGSecond Saturdays. 6-9 p.m. at the

On Christmas Eve, nextTuesday, Dec. 24 at 1p.m., the Waterskiing

Santa Show will occur in thePotomac River on the Alexan-dria Waterfront. This will be the34th year of this wonderfulshow which includes numerousacts including flippingwaterskiers, characters likeFrosty The Snowman, theGrinch and others and, finally,Santa Claus skiing by with hisfull complement of reindeer.The best viewing will be on thewaterfront between OronocoStreet and Duke Street. The cur-rent weather prediction in-

Waterskiing Santa!

Visit A

lexan

dria

Don’t Miss the Waterskiing Santa Showcludes no precipitation. Typi-cally, thousands of people viewthe show and it is always excit-ing and enjoyable. There is nocharge to watch the show andan amusing pre-show featuringthe Grinch begins at 12:45 p.m.

For more information, visitthe website atwww.waterskiingsanta.com.

After the show, there is plentyto do in Alexandria from shop-ping and eating to observing thebeauty of this historic city.Merry Christmas to all myChristian friends.

Jay SpiegelMount Vernon

Workhouse Arts Center, 9518Workhouse Road, Lorton. TheSecond Saturday Art Walk is theperfect time to meet nearly 85Resident and Associate Artists,creating art in the studios orexhibiting in our galleries.Experience performances of dance,cabaret, comedy, big band, jazz, andtheater. Indulge in classes in the artof mixology or cuisines from aroundthe globe. Visitwww.workhousearts.org/.

Senior Line Dancing. Mondays, 1p.m.; Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m. at LittleRIver Glen Senior Center, 4001Barker Court, Fairfax. Line Dancing isa gentle, social form of aerobicactivity. Studies have shown it aids inwarding off Alzheimer’s disease. Noprevious experience needed. Cost: $5per 8-week session. [email protected] or call 703-

524-3739.Fairfax Pets on Wheels New

Volunteer Orientation. Anorientation for new volunteersinterested in visiting residents ofnursing homes and assisted livingfacilities with their approved petsthrough the Fairfax Pets On Wheelsprogram is held the first Wednesdayof every month starting at 7:30 p.m.Visit www.fpow.org for each month’slocation. Prior to attending, pleasecomplete the online applicationfound at www.fpow.org/volunteer.www.fpow.org, 703-324-5424 [email protected].

Carolina Shag. Wednesdays, 6:30-10p.m. at Arlington/Fairfax Elks Lodge,8421 Arlington Blvd., Fairfax. Freelessons at 7:30 p.m. No partnersneeded. Dinner menu. $8. Under 21free. nvshag.org.

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10 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Nonprofit providing support andadvocacy for those in need of food,shelter, affordable housing, qualitychildcare, and other human services.Programs and services include theEmbry Rucker Community Shelter,Emergency Food Pantry,Hypothermia Prevention Program,Gifts for Kids and annual Coat Drive.www.cornerstonesva.org. ContactNate King, Donations and DrivesCoordinator, at 571-323-9569.

❖ FACETS helps parents, their childrenand individuals who suffer the effectsof poverty in the Fairfax area, apartner in efforts to endhomelessness in Fairfax County.FACETS is always in need ofdonations and volunteers, and offersa variety of one-time and ongoingopportunities.

Donations will be accepted at FACETS’main office (10700 Page Avenue,Building B, Fairfax VA 22030)between 9am – 5pm.

Contact Haylee Davis [email protected].

703-865-4251 [email protected]. 10640 PageAve., Suite 300, Fairfax VA 22030

❖ Friends of the Fairfax CountyAnimal Shelter. Each year, nearly5,000 pets, including cats, dogs,small mammals, reptiles andlivestock, come to the Fairfax CountyAnimal Shelter. Friends of the FairfaxCounty Animal Shelter fundsimportant needs throughout theShelter such as behavioral trainingand dental or medical care beyondwhat the shelter’s budget canprovide. [email protected] 571-212-9858 www.ffcas.org/

❖ Friends of Guest HouseNorthern Virginia offers structure,supervision, support and assistanceto female ex-offenders who want toimprove their lives and break thecycle of incarceration. Friends ofGuest House offers the only programfor women of its kind in NorthernVirginia. One East Luray Ave.,Alexandria, VA 22301-2025, 703-549-8072,[email protected],friendsofguesthouse.org/

❖ Habitat for Humanity ofNorthern Virginia transforms thelives of lower-income families inneed by providing affordablehomeownership opportunities inAlexandria, Arlington, Fairfax andFalls Church. Learn more atwww.habitatnova.org.

❖ Homestretch, to empower homelessparents with children to attainpermanent housing and self-sufficiency by giving them the skills,knowledge and hope they need tobecome productive participants in thecommunity. Since 1990 Homestretchhas helped over 2,000 familiesachieve permanent housing and self-sufficiency. 303 South Maple Ave,Suite 400, Falls Church, VA 22046Phone: 703-237-2035homestretchva.org

❖ NAMI Northern Virginia (NationalAlliance on Mental Illness) works toraise awareness and provideeducation, advocacy, and supportprograms for people living withmental illness, families, students,educators, law enforcement, and thepublic throughout ourneighborhoods. Many excellentprograms. NAMI Northern Virginiaserves Fairfax, Falls Church,Arlington, Alexandria, and Loudounwww.nami-northernvirginia.org/HelpLine: (571)458.7310,Email: [email protected]

❖ National Capital Food Bank,6833 Hill Park Drive, Lorton, servingall of Northern Virginia, (571) 482-4770 . www.capitalareafoodbank.org

❖ Neighborhood Health, 6677Richmond Highway, Alexandria, VA22306. The organization partners

with its patients to treat the wholeperson through medical, behavioralhealth and dental programs. It has 10clinics throughout Arlington andFairfax counties. Participating withall insurance including commercial,Medicare, and Medicaid, 703-535-5568,www.neighborhoodhealthva.org

❖ New Hope Housing, endshomelessness in Northern Virginia byproviding housing, offering hope, andbuilding community. We currentlyoffer various Housing Programs, andSupport Services. 8407E RichmondHwy., Alexandria, VA 22309www.newhopehousing.org/how-to-help/donate/

❖ Northern Virginia FamilyService. The organization providesthe essential building blocks forfinancial, emotional and physicalwell-being, serving as leaders andinnovators for the Northern Virginiacommunity. Every year, it empowers35,000 individuals to achieve self-sufficiency. www.nvfs.org NorthernVirginia Family Service, 10455 WhiteGranite, Drive, Suite 100, Oakton, VA22124. 571-748-2500

❖ OAR rebuilds lives and breaks thecycle of crime with opportunities,alternatives, and resources foroffenders and their families to createa safer community. 10640 Page Ave.,Suite 250, Fairfax, VA 22030, 703-246-3033. OAR needs volunteers andfinancial donations. oarnova.org/donate

❖ Our Neighbor’s Child (ONC)volunteers are preparing for deliveryof holiday gifts for children fromfinancially struggling families inwestern Fairfax County –predominantly in Centreville andChantilly.www.ourneighborschild.org/

❖ Pathway Homes providing non-time-limited housing and supportiveservices to adults with serious mentalillness and co-occurring disabilities inNorthern Virginia. Founded in 1980,Pathways currently serves more than400 adults in community-basedhomes in Northern Virginia.www.pathwayhomes.org

❖ Potomac Riverkeeper Networkworks to protect the public’s right toclean water in our rivers andstreams; to stop pollution to promotesafe drinking water; to protecthealthy river habitats; and toenhance public use and enjoyment.

3070 M Street, NW, Washington, DC20007. (202) 888-2037

www.potomacriverkeepernetwork.org

❖ Potomac River Conservancy,8403 Colesville Road, Suite 805,Silver Spring, MD 20910,301.608.1188 potomac.org, seeks toimprove the Potomac River’s waterquality by building an impassionedbase of river advocates to impartchange at the local level.

❖ PRS, Inc. is a non profit providingmental health, crisis intervention andsuicide prevention services inNorthern Virginia and Washington,D.C. Seeking to change and save livesin our community by empoweringhope, safety, recovery, wellness,independence and communityintegration.. PRS also provides crisiscounseling and connection tosupports CRISISLINK When crisiscalls, we answer 24/7 Call: 800-273-TALK [8255] Text: “CONNECT” to85511

❖ Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church (RebuildingTogether-AFF) is a 501 (c)(3)nonprofit organization that makescritical repairs at no charge for low-income homeowners and nonprofitorganizations. Our volunteers makehomes safe and healthy, and theyhelp seniors age in place. Since 1988we have repaired 2,273 homes andnon-profit residential facilities in ourarea and mobilized 69,081volunteers to do the work. Webelieve in safe homes andcommunities for everyone. 10723Main Street, #135, Fairfax, VA

22030; Phone: 703-528-1999https://rebuildingtogether-aff.org/

❖ Second Story — Second Story(formerly Alternative House)provides shelter and services forhomeless, runaway or abusedteenagers, unaccompanied youth,and young mothers and theirchildren. second-story.org.

❖ SHARE of McLean, celebrating its50th anniversary, is an all-volunteerorganization with no paid staff. Weare supported by donations fromlocal religious congregations,community organizations andindividuals. Our food and clothingroom is housed is space donated bythe McLean Baptist Church. Our yearround and seasonal programs includefamily emergency financialassistance, food pantry, used clothingroom, recycled furniture, back-to-school supplies and refurbishedlaptop computers. During theholidays, we also provide ourneighbors in need with grocery cardsand gifts.

Main Message Center: (703) [email protected]

Mail: Share, Inc. P.O. Box 210 McLean,VA 22101

Food and Clothing Room: McLeanBaptist Church 1367 Chain BridgeRoad McLean, VA 22101

www.shareofmclean.org

❖ Shelter House provides crisisintervention, safe housing andsupportive services to promote self-sufficiency for homeless families andvictims of domestic violence inFairfax County. It is our mission toget families back into stable housingin order to provide them theopportunity to continue their journeyto self-sufficiency.www.shelterhouse.org

❖ Shepherd’s Center of OaktonVienna providing services, personalenrichment, volunteer opportunitiesfor adults 50 and over. Currentlyserving 3,000-plus mature adults inthe region. 703-281-0538,www.scov.org

❖ Tahirih Justice Center, 703-575-0070, www.tahirih.org, Legalservices, public policy advocacy, andeducation for immigrant women andgirls.

❖ TAPS, Tragedy AssistanceProgram for Survivors, 3033 WilsonBlvd., Third Floor, Arlingotn, VA22201, Call 24/7 800-959-TAPS(8277) The Tragedy AssistanceProgram for Survivors offerscompassionate care and resources toall those grieving the loss of amilitary loved one. Make a donationto support surviving military familiesand loved ones. You can also make agift in honor or memory of a lovedone. www.taps.org/donate

❖ Touching Heart in Herndon is anonprofit organization focused onhow to enlighten, excite, and educatechildren about how they canexperience the true joy that comesfrom helping those in need.www.touchingheart.com, 703-901-7355.

❖ United Community, Mount Vernon,703-768-7106, 7511 Fordson Road,Alexandria, VA 22306 assists low-income families and individualsliving along the Route 1 Corridor, UCprovides housing programs as well asa Workforce Development Center.Make a Financial Contribution tosupport the Holiday Gift Room 7511Fordson Road, Alexandria VA 22306.www.ucmagency.org

Donations of cash/checks and gift cardsare also welcome.

❖ Western Fairfax ChristianMinistries — 4511 Daly Drive,Suite J, Chantilly, VA 20151 inChantilly. email Assistant FoodPantry Manager/VolunteerCoordinator Debbie Culbertson [email protected] and putHoliday Food in the subject line.wfcmva.org/

From Page 4

Where to Give for Local impact

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Springfield Connection ❖ December 19-25, 2019 ❖ 11www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

Having re-read what I wrote in last week’s col-umn: “Still Processing,” I can’t say it made me feel a whole lot better than when I wrote it. Granted, it was a column that had to be written given my

-stantly) and the possible crossroads that I may be entering. Nevertheless, if part of the underlying rea-son why I take up this space every week is to vent and share, as a means, hopefully not to a premature end, I suppose there was stress released there. But the subject matter was so third-rail-ish that even though I’ve tried to avoid it, I feel adversely affected by the experience.

The subject to which I so ambiguously refer is my own death. Aside from not wanting it to happen, if I don’t plan in advance for it having happened, the chaos that will ensue and envelop my wife, Dina, is both unfair and inconsiderate. You see, in our relationship, she’s been the social director and I’ve been the business manager. To quote my late father: “and neither the twain shall meet except on the twack.” If I were indeed to predecease my wife, a fairly distinct possibility, not only would there be no twain, there would be no “twack” as well. There would only be trouble, and that’s ‘trouble’ with a capital “T.”

It’s not so much that there are complications lurking, so far as I understand them: there are no children, no blended family, no special needs situa-tions, no multi-layered business entanglements, no offshore anything (heck, there’s very little onshore), our home and bank accounts are jointly owned, no

and few liabilities; really not much out of the ordi-nary. However, I get that ordinary is in the eye of the surviving beholder, which is likely not to be me. Therefore, if I want to contribute to my wife’s quality of life after I’ve departed dearly (and to her peace of mind now, quite frankly), apparently a road map of

about control; it’s more about initiative.)I guess there’s something in me that feels I

need to get it out on paper so that I might act on it in person. Maybe writing about such a grim task minimizes its grimness, sort of like dipping your toe in the water before you jump? Maybe thinking and writing about the anxiety I’m feeling concerning what my wife will have to do after I’ve died is kind of a mental ice breaker. Not that I’m getting into any details here, it’s more of a broad brush,” to once again quote my brother, Richard, about the need for consideration and fairness. The underlying problem is that getting into all this after I’m-dead stuff seems and feels incredibly negative. And I try to ignore negativity. In fact, it may very well have been my positivity which has kept me alive all these live-long days.

I’m sure I’m rationalizing (maybe more like “irrationalizing”), as an excuse for not doing what needs to be done, but I’ve always been good at that. In addition, I keep coming back to it’s my life; I’m the one with “the cancer,” to quote “Forrest, Forrest Gump,” describing his mother’s cause of death, as a means of justifying my stubbornness/unwillingness to make certain arrangements. I mean, when you think of it, having cancer is a heck of an excuse. And though I’ve rarely used it as one, I’ve always felt it. And with respect to planning for a future I don’t have, I have to blame the cancer. It makes you do and think things you might not otherwise do and think. It’s not as if anyone is ever prepared for a cancer/serious health diagnosis. Quite the opposite in fact. As such, you either learn to roll with the punches or get knocked down by them.

This recent/current experience hasn’t knocked me down or out exactly, but it has made me a little wobbly emotionally, and reminded me just how in-

time in years, I seem to be at greater risk than ever. I suppose with risk comes opportunities. Having my

targeted medicine seems to be present just such an opportunity; exactly what the doctor ordered, literally.

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

WEDNESDAY/DEC. 18Community Input Meeting. 7-9 p.m. At

Garfield Elementary School, 7101 Old KeeneMill Road, Springfield. Fairfax CountyDepartment of Transportation (FCDOT) hasrescheduled the second community inputmeeting on Fairfax Connector bus service reviewin the Franconia-Springfield area. Staff willpresent three service alternatives that weredeveloped based on public input received duringthe first round of community and stakeholderengagement and technical analysis. After thisround of input, FCDOT staff will develop apreferred service plan to provide better access todestinations, improve travel times, increaseschedule reliability and provide moredependable service. The community will have anopportunity to review and comment on thepreferred service plan in Spring 2020.

SATURDAY/DEC. 28Messy Church. 5-6:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s in the

Woods, 5911 Fairview Woods Drive, FairfaxStation. Join St. Peter’s in the Woods for theirmonthly Messy Church. It’s a worshipingcommunity especially geared towards familiesand young children, but welcoming to all. Bible-themed crafts and activities, casual worship anda free, family-style dinner. Call 703-503-9210for more. Registration is appreciated, visitwww.stpetersinthewoods.org/events.

MONDAY/JAN. 13Effective Strategies for Dementia

Caregivers. 7-8:30 p.m. At Kings Park Library,9000 Burke Lake Road, Burke. Explore howcommunication changes when someone is livingwith Alzheimer’s, and identify strategies to helpyou communicate at each stage of the disease.Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. Lightrefreshments provided. Free. Visit the website:www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library

BRITEPATHS SEEKING VOLUNTEERSFairfax-based nonprofit Britepaths is seeking

volunteers to sponsor families in need who livethroughout the Fairfax County area. Sponsorsare matched with families who havedemonstrated need, and may opt to provide aDecember holiday meal and/or gifts for childrenunder 18. Britepaths also has a great need forcash donations and gift cards to grocery storesor Target/Walmart to assist those who are notsponsored. A wonderful family, company orgroup holiday service project. Register and learnmore at: britepaths.org. Contact 703-273-8829or [email protected].

SUPPORT GROUPSParent Support Partners, a service of the

Healthy Minds Fairfax initiative, are all parentswho have received training and are qualitied tooffer education, support and assistance at nocost to families or caregivers. They providereliable information that families can use indecision-making and are familiar with servicesand resources that can help families in distress.Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/healthymindsfairfax or www.nami-northernvirginia.org/parent-peer-support.html.

Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke sponsorsa monthly meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of eachmonth, noon-1:30 p.m., for caregivers to learnand to share with others experiencing similarchallenges. Before attending, contact thefacilitator, Eileen Thompson at 703-451-8626 [email protected].

Haven of Northern Virginia provides support,compassion, information and resources to thebereaved and seriously ill. To become a Havenvolunteer, please call 703-941-7000 to requestan orientation. Volunteers must complete a 30-hour training and commit to one year of serviceanswering Haven phones (2.5 hours weekly).Next training is scheduled for fall 2017.

ONGOINGPositive Parenting Strategies Course. At

PHILLIPS, 7010 Braddock Road, Annandale. Aseries of classes and in home consultationstaught by PHILLIPS’ counselors. Open to all localfamilies. Call Stacy Stryjewski at 703-658-9054.

Bulletin

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