Oak HillOak Hill ‘We The People’ Championsconnection.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/... ·...

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ April 29 - May 5, 2015 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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April 29 - May 5, 2015 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com

Oak Hill ❖ HerndonOak Hill ❖ Herndon ‘We The People’Champions

‘We The People’Champions

News, Page 12

From left - back row:Ria Singh, Amrit

Gorle, Varshini Babu,Sophie Halkett. Front

row: Debbie Dong,Maggie Sparling.These six Rachel

Carson Middle Schooleighth graders were

all part of the CynthiaBurgett’s “We the

People” competitionchampionship team.

What’s Coming?Herndon Outlook, Page 3

Accepted Into All EightIvy League SchoolsNews, Page 4

Summer●CampsEducation&ActivitiesSummer●CampsEducation&ActivitiesSummer●CampsEducation&Activities

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Oak Hill ❖ HerndonOak Hill ❖ Herndon

Education&ActivitiesSummer●CampsEducation&ActivitiesSummer●Camps

2015

2 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ April 29 - May 5, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com


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Photos by Ken Moore/The Connection

Herndon Outlook: Spring 2015Herndon Connection Editor

Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or

[email protected]

What’s Coming?

1 Herndon Metro Station A,Phase 2 of Silver Line projected toopen in 2019.http://www.dullesmetro.com/silver-line-stations/herndon/

In the median of the Dulles Airport Ac-cess Highway/Dulles Toll Road, theHerndon Silver Line Station will serve theHerndon-Monroe Park and Ride. There willbe parking for 3,500 cars, racks for 35 bi-cycles on the north side and 46 more in thegarage. Phase 2 construction will be com-plete in the next five years and the openingdate is to be determined by the Metropoli-tan Washington Area Transit Authority.Trains will run every six minutes duringrush hours as with the other two stationslisted below.

The Metropolitan Washington AirportsAuthority announced Monday that a com-bination of safety modifications and lastwinter’s severe weather will delay thecompletion of Phase 2 of the Metro Silverline by about 13 months, and that designmodifications made for safety and reliabil-ity will add $76 million to the previouslyannounced cost of Phase 1. Toll rates onthe Dulles Toll Road will not be affected.Phase 2 of the Silver Line project, will ex-tend service from the end of Phase 1 atWiehle in Reston, through Herndon andWashington Dulles International Airportand into Loudoun County.

2 Innovation Center Metro StationBhttp://www.dullesmetro.com/silver-line-stations/innovation-center/

In the median Dulles Toll Road/AirportAccess Highway near the intersection ofRoute 28 and will serve the area by theCenter for Innovative Technology. There willbe parking for approximately 2,000 cars andit will have 45 bicycle racks in the garageand seven bicycle racks on the north side.

3 Dulles Airport Stationhttp://www.dullesmetro.com/silver-line-

stations/dulles-airport/The Dulles Airport Silver Line Station will

serve the Washington Dulles International

Airport and will be along the face of Park-ing Garage 1 opposite the terminal.One sta-tion entrance will access the undergroundpedestrian tunnel with moving sidewalksthat connects to the baggage claim level ofmain terminal.

4 Trinity Land, SE 2014-DR-05211801 Leesburg Pike

Woody’s Golf range is scheduled to beclosed by November. The 28.9 acre prop-erty is currently zoned R1 and can be de-veloped by-right with 30 homes. TrinityLand seeks a special exception to build 30single family units utilizing a cluster devel-opment configuration. Staff recommendedapproval at a hearing on March 12, 2015.The Board of Supervisors is currently sched-uled to hear the application and hold a pub-lic hearing on May 12, 2015.See http://ldsnet.fairfaxcounty.gov/ldsnet/ZAPSMain.aspx?cde=SE&seq=4192058.

5 JLB - RZ 2013-DR-017Dulles Technology Drive/River Birch Road

JLB Dulles Tech wants to develop a 450-unit multi-family development on 11.6acres. The site is approximately one halfmile south of the planned Innovation Cen-ter Metro Station on the south side of DullesTechnology Drive about 450 east of its in-tersection with River Birch Road. Planningand Zoning has scheduled a public hearingfor June 18 at 8:15 p.m. Planning staff arescheduled to issue a staff report on June 3,2015.See http://ldsnet.fairfaxcounty.gov/ldsnet/ZAPSMain.aspx?cde=RZ&seq=4181075.

6 Herndon Fire Station680 Spring Street

The new Herndon Fire Station, estimatedto cost $13.35 million, is anticipated to becompleted in the Summer of 2016. The14,500 square-foot fire station at 680 SpringStreet will be a two-story facility with be-low-grade parking. A temporary fire stationhas been constructed at 791 Elden Streetso Fire and Rescue can maintain serviceduring construction. The project is fundedthrough a bond referendum that Fairfax

County voters approved last November. Theold fire station on Spring Street was theoldest station still in operation in FairfaxCounty.

7 Vinehaven HomesCenter and Vine streets

The construction of 17 single-family

Compiled By

Ken Moore

The Connection

homes at the intersection of Center and Vinestreets and along the W&OD Trail in theHistoric District is nearing completion.Evergreene Homes is marketing its newdevelopment to promote its proximity to theSilver Line as well as the charm of being inhistoric Herndon. They showcased theirmodel homes this past weekend.


By Marissa Beale

The Connection

Smiling, professional and business-like, Pooja Chandrashekar comesacross as an American high schoolsenior aiming for success. And re-

cently, she made headlines for gaining ad-mission into all eight Ivy League schools,an accomplishment that’s not only excep-tional but also rare. Stanford, MIT, Duke,the University of Michigan, Georgia Techand the University of Virginia also offeredher admission.

“I was just really surprised to get intoone,” said the Thomas Jefferson HighSchool for Science and Technology(TJHSST) student of her accomplishment.Chandrashekar, from Potomac Mills, at-tended middle school at Nysmith School forthe Gifted and Talented in Herndon, beforeapplying and gaining admission intoTJHSST. She has a 4.57 GPA, a 2390 SATscore and top scores on all 13 of her APtests. While these numbers are impressivebefore college admissions, Chandrashekarwas focused on different numbers.

Northwest Federal Credit Unionbranches in Herndon hosted sev-eral events this spring, including

a local art exhibition and the annual youthclub carnival on Saturday, April 25.TheHerndon branch lobby was transformed intoan arts gallery Friday and Saturday, April17-18 for the Spring ArtFest featuring localartists. The exhibit is part of a partnershipprogram with the League of Reston Artists(LRA) through the Credit Union’s Commu-nity Partners program.

“Providing a venue for these gifted art-ists to display their work not only helps givethem an opportunity to share their talentbut also provides an enriching experiencefor the community,” said Chris McDonald,president/CEO of Northwest Federal.

Participating in “hometown” Herndonevents is natural for Northwest Federal, asthe credit union recently opened its secondarea branch in the Herndon Village Centerarea. Altogether, Northwest Federal hasseven branches to serve members’ financialneeds in addition to online and mobile ser-vices.

On Sunday, March 22, there were 229

Pooja Chandrashekar, TJHSSTsenior, was recently accepted intoall eight Ivy League schools.

Accepted into All Eight Ivy League SchoolsNews

TJ senior — a former Nysmith School studentin Herndon — makes headlines.

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DURING HER FRESHMAN YEAR atTJHSST, she noticed that there were onlythree girls, including herself, in her AP Com-puter Science class. She was especially sur-prised since this was at one of the premierschools for science, technology, engineer-ing and math. To combat this issue, she es-tablished ProjectCSGirls, a nonprofit thataims to introduce middle school girls to thesciences.

“[ProjectCSGirls] is a national youth-driven nonprofit to encourage more girls topursue science and technology,” saidChandrashekar about the organization. “Wedo this by running a national computer sci-ence competition for young girls. We askthem to pick a social problem that they arefamiliar with, and develop something us-ing science and technology as their responseby that.”

Chandrashekar’s motivation comes fromthe way that middle school played a keyrole in developing her interest in science.She hopes that exposing more girls to thesciences at an early age will encourage themto pursue it more in high school.

“For me, being the only girl wasn’t a prob-

lem because of the strong foundation I hadin middle school, which is why I focus myattention on middle school,” saidChandrashekar. “In my middle school, ev-eryone had to take the STEM classes,whereas in high school there was an optionto take different classes.”

She has already found ways to turn her

scientific interests into real-life applications,designing a Parkinson’s disease app that candiagnose the disease quantitatively, usingspeech recording. She will present this re-search at the May 2015 Society for Indus-trial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) Con-ference on Applications of Dynamical Sys-tems. She credits her research mentor, Dr.James Ellenbogen, for her public speakingsuccess.

“I really strive to make a difference. Fromthe research I’ve done and my work withProjectCSGirls, I really take up projects thatcan have a big impact on people. I want tohelp girls around the country realize theirinterest in computer science.”

IN COLLEGE she plans to study biomedi-cal engineering and computational neuro-science, while still focusing on her non-profit. The key to her success is a willing-ness to do things that seem intimidating.

“Do what you really love to do and takerisks and go for it. Don’t be hesitant to takea chance and take a risk. If you want to startsomething or do something, you reallyshouldn’t be hesitant, you need to just stepup and go for it,” said the high school se-nior.

She still has time to make a decision, butwherever Chandrashekar goes, she is sureto leave an impression.

Northwest Federal Reaches Out to Herndon AreaHerndon NWFCUhosts severalcommunity events.

Children had the opportunity to enjoy severalattractions at the April youth club carnival atNorthwest Federal Credit Union. At the Herndonbranch at Spring Street there was a bounce house.

Herndon musician Al Robertson displayed his guitarexpertise at the Northwest Federal Credit Union Herndonlobby during the Spring ArtFest which featured localartists.

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participants in the Town of Herndon’s in-augural “Ice Breaker Family Fun Run.”Northwest Federal Credit Union’s Herndonbranch at 200 Spring St. was the starting

gate for the first 5K of the year. This 5K tookrunners on a scenic path through theHerndon Parkway and Sugarland Run Trailbefore finishing back at the credit union.

The credit union serves more than 125,000members at locations in Chantilly,Gainesville, Herndon, Leesburg, Manassasand Vienna.


Public SafetyTelecommunicators

“If you ever visit the police station, and I empha-size visit, you go in the lobby and there will be acouple of big windows. Take a look into the window,

look at the people in there, wave, smileand give them a big thank you,” saidCouncilmember Dave Kirby.

The Herndon Town Council honoredPublic Safety Telecommunicators at its last Councilmeeting on April 15.

“We express appreciation to these extraordinarypeople, who give their time, energy, compassion,professionalism, understanding and resources to as-sist others, ensuring our community is a safer placeto live,” said Kirby.

Public Safety Telecommunicators respond to callsfor emergency assistance and for dispatching assis-tance to help save the lives and property of our citi-zens. Of course, they respond 24 hours a day, 365days a year.

“Though you may never see our faces, we trulyare on the front lines of service to this Town,” saidone of Herndon’s public safety telecommunicators.

“This is a commitment that we take seriously,” shesaid, “It’s an honor to appear here to represent myfellow dispatchers here and nationwide.”

— Ken Moore

Envy of the NeighborhoodThe neighbor with Herndon’s “best yard” will be

honored by Herndon’s Cultivating Community com-mittee in May, June, July and October.

“Yard of the Month is an opportunity to recognizethe efforts of town residents whose yards contributeto the beautification of the town and its neighbor-hoods,” according to Council documents.

“The criteria for Yard of the Month Award selec-tion includes the following: grass, trees, shrubs andplants that are well-cared for and aesthetically pleas-ing; rocks, logs, short fences or other decorative ele-ments are in good condition and neatly placed; flow-ers and other vegetation are well-landscaped andmake good use of color; and yards free of trash andclutter.

Nominate your own yard or a neighbor’s yard.Winners receive gift certificates from Meadows Farmsand are recognized by the Mayor and Town Councilat public meetings.

Nomination forms for the Yard of the MonthAwards are available on the “Cultivating Commu-nity” page of the town’s website, herndon-va.gov orat the Herndon Municipal Center and the HerndonCommunity Center.

For more information, call 703/435-6800 X2084or email [email protected].

Herndon’s FarmersMarket to Open May 7

Herndon’s Farmers Market begins with opening dayon Thursday, May 7.

All vendors from 2014 are scheduled to return andare located within a 125 mile radius of Fairfax County.

New Vendors for 2015 include Lamb’s Quarter, fea-turing grass fed pork, lamb, free range poultry andeggs. Wigglesworth Granola will offer fresh granolaand granola bars.

News

Week in

Herndon

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Opinion

Commentary

By Christian Paasch

In today’s marketing environ-ment, it seems as though onegender cannot make progress

without disparaging another.However, a few inspiring and re-freshingly positive television adshave recently managed to gainpopularity while avoiding this pit-fall. I applaud Dove, Nissan andToyota for having the courage tostep away from the norm and, indoing so, not only bring men intothe mainstream picture of themodern American parent, but alsofor doing so in a way that is per-haps more innovative than any-thing else: championing one gen-der without attacking, alienatingor poking fun at the other gender.

Toyota has done a terrific job ofbridging the strong bond betweenfathers and daughters. In thecompany’s latest ad, Toyota de-picts the various stages of adaughter’s life where her dad isthere to console, protect, guide

While there is plenty of competitionfor the title “most vulnerable,” fos-ter children are certainly among

them.In Fairfax County right now, there are more

than 240 children in foster care. There is nobenign way to end up in foster care. Fosterchildren are victims of abuse and/or neglectsignificant enough for them to be removedfrom their families. On Tuesday, April 29, theFairfax County Board of Supervisors an-nounced that May is Foster Care and FosterFamily Recognition Month.

Ironically, May, 2015 could be a monthof uncertainty for older foster childrenin many places in Virginia because of afailure in the Virginia General Assembly.

About 50 foster children a year “age out” ofthe foster care system in Fairfax County. Thereare children who may have spent much of theirlives in foster care, and reach the age of ma-jority while they are still in foster care, with-out being reunited with their families or beingadopted.

“The research shows that our youth whohave been in foster care are extremely trau-matized,” said Carl E. Ayers, director of theVirginia Division of Family Services. “Childrenwho have aged out of foster care are muchmore likely to be homeless, to end up in psy-chiatric hospitals, to end up in jail, to be youngparents, to be on public assistance and just ingeneral have higher rates of poverty. If you canthink of a negative outcome, that’s what we

see [at high rates] with foster children whoage out.”

But right now, about 150 young people be-tween 18-21 who are receiving foster care ser-vices in Virginia, with as many as 50 of themhere in Fairfax County, are discovering thatbecause the General Assembly failed to pavethe way for Federal “Fostering Connections”funding, they could be aging out sooner thanthey expected.

In 2008, President George Bush signed theFostering Connections Act that gives states theability to use federal dollars for children who

were in foster care up until the age of21.

In Virginia, the General Assemblypassed in 2014 a plan for implementation thatrequired legislation in 2015 session. But thatbill died in committee, and Virginia FamilyServices has begun the process of letting localagencies, like Fairfax County Department ofFamily Services, that once a foster child turns18, they must be transitioned out of foster care.

By spending a little over $3 million, the statecould have gained more than $10 million infederal money to help these emerging adultsat a critical moment. Savings to localities wouldhave been more than $3 million.

But instead, foster children 18 or older willneed to have services transitioned. Ayers saysthe department will work with local agenciesto be sure that none ends up homeless, no oneends up in the hospital. But for youth in fostercare 18 or over, a new plan will have to be

worked out, and each such youth will have todeal with one more uncertainty.

“It is very, very important that no one isturned on the street,” said Ayers, citing spe-cific instructions that local agencies contacthim personally if they are having trouble iden-tifying services for any of the youth beingtransitioned.

Localities got the word via a “broadcast”memo on April 15, and are still sorting outwhat it all means.

In Fairfax County, the goal is for youth whoare currently in foster homes to be able to stayin them by shifting how they are served, butthere will certainly be a financial impact.

“With this being so new, our immediate stepwas to see exactly which kids will be affected,timelines and expectations,” said NannetteBowler, director of Fairfax County Family Ser-vices. “We’ll scramble and do an assessmenton all these children to figure out we can sup-port them given what has occurred.

“We’re going to have … look any avenue thatwe can to be sure these children are not de-railed.”

Stand by, because it is going to take a villageto raise these children.

— Mary Kimm

[email protected]

Learn More: Foster CareOrientation meeting, second Monday monthly, 7 p.m.Department of Family Services, Pennino Building12011 Government Center ParkwayFairfax, VA 22035703-324-7639www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/childrenyouth/fca.htm

Editorial

Fostering Connections, FalteringWhy are federal dollars acceptable for roads,but not for helping foster children?

Celebrate Mom, Dad—Without Selling One Shortand eventually, set out into theworld with tears in his eyes. Themessage of the ad is to make boldchoices — what better term todescribe what any parent wouldwant for his or her child, in par-ticular a daughter?

In a seeming balance to Toyota,Nissan focused on the relationshipbetween a father and his son. Per-haps too stereotypically, the fatherhere is depicted as the absent fa-ther, a race car driver in this in-stance, and the son looking on,wanting to be just like his father.Of course, the soundtrack to thiscommercial is none other than“Cats In The Cradle,” but thank-fully, the father realizes before it’stoo late that his son needs to physi-cally see him and know that theirrelationship is more importantthan any job.

Dove has arguably the mostmoving, yet simple ad: clip afterclip of young and adult childrencalling for “Dad” or “Daddy” atvarious stages of their lives. From

the toddler needing help to theadult calling his father with thewonderful news of a pregnancy,the commercial ends with a simplequestion and answer: “Whatmakes a man stronger? Showingthat he cares.”

So why do these ads matter?Why are they so special? Hereagain, the answer is simple: be-cause they are a rarity. Becausethey champion the roles dads playin the lives of children, both boysand girls, without denigrating thecrucial and complementary rolemothers play in those samechildren’s lives. This spirit of gen-

der equality is one to celebrate andemulate.

In fact, the path these three com-panies have forged serves as amarketing model for others andreminds parents everywhere thatthey are parents first, united by thelove for their children and madestronger by a mutual appreciationof their unique strengths and dif-ferences.

Christian Paasch is chair of the Na-tional Parents Organization in Virginiaand has been appointed by Virginia Gov.McAuliffe to Virginia’s Child SupportGuidelines Review Panel. He lives in Alex-andria. Email [email protected].

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NEWS DEPARTMENT:[email protected]

Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414

[email protected]

Amna RehmatullaEditorial Assistant

703-778-9410 [email protected]

Ken MooreCommunity Reporter

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Jon RoetmanSports Editor ❖ 703-752-4013

[email protected]@jonroetman

Ryan DunnContributing Writer

ADVERTISING:For advertising information

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Debbie FunkNational Sales703-778-9444

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Editor & PublisherMary Kimm

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Executive Vice PresidentJerry Vernon

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Editor in ChiefSteven Mauren

Managing EditorKemal KurspahicPhotography:

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Oak Hill & Herndon


Calendar

Send announcements to [email protected]. The deadlineis the Friday prior to the following week’spaper. Photos/artwork encouraged.

FRIDAY/MAY 1-AUG. 28Herndon Friday Night Live. 6:30

p.m. 777 Lynn Street, Herndon.Listen to great music on Friday nightsduring the summer. Visitherndonrocks.com/schedule.php formore.

SATURDAY/MAY 2Pet Fiesta 2015. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Reston Town Center. The Pet Fiestadraws local businesses, rescue groupsand thousands of pet owners for aday of interactive activities,demonstrations, exhibitions andanimals galore Visitwww.petfiesta.org for more.

Opening Day of Reston FarmersMarket. 8 a.m. - noon. Lake AnneVillage Center, 11404 WashingtonPlaza W, Reston. Nearly all of yourfavorite vendors from last year willbe there, as will four new ones wethink you will enjoy. The RestonFarmers Market is sponsored by theFairfax County Park Authority andfeatures fresh, local fruits,vegetables, homemade foods andhome-grown plants. For moreinformation, go towww.restonfarmersmarket.com orcall 703-318-9628.

Pirate Fest. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. LakeFairfax Park, 1400 Lake FairfaxDrive, Reston. This festival celebratesVirginia’s seafaring past. Join withShips Company Chanteymen singingtraditional sea chanteys, tavern tunesand pirate ditties. Experience the lifeof a sailor first hand with our manyfun activity stations. Wear your mostdashing pirate clothes and enter ourcostume contest. Learn about globaltrade in the 18th century, anddiscover the luxury goods frominternational ports that compelledpirates to sail the seven seas.

Reston Spring Festival. 1-5 p.m.Walker Nature Center, 11450 GladeDrive, Reston. The Spring Festival isfun for all ages with live animals,fishing activities, craft-making forkids, displays and information fromenvironmental groups, and family-friendly entertainment.Entertainment sponsored by RestonCommunity Center.

SUNDAY/MAY 3Wild Edibles. 1:30 p.m. Walker Nature

Center, 11450 Glade Drive, Reston.Adults. Many naturally occurringplants can make a nutritious andtasty addition to your diet. Samplesome “wild” dishes and take homerecipes to try on your own. After anindoor presentation that includes theethics of collecting and how goodforaging starts at home, we’ll hikethe trails in search of edible plants,and harvest some to take home.Guest Presenter: Lori Thomas.Reservations required by April 30.Fee: $7/person RA members, $9/person Non-members.

For more information, [email protected], or call 703-476-9689 and press 5.

THURSDAY/MAY 7Farmers Market. 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Old Town Herndon, 700 block ofLynn Street, By the Red Caboose.Every Thursday vendors sell productsthey grow and are located within a125-mile radius of Fairfax County,ensuring that your purchases will befresh. For information visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/wp-farm-mkt.htm.

Nature Walk: Sunset at SunriseValley Wetlands. 7 - 8 p.m.Sunrise Valley Wetlands - 12700

Sunrise Valley Drive. Park on the left(west) side of the office building.

Adults. Sunrise Valley Wetlands is anaquatic jewel on the border of Restonand Herndon. Twilight is a time oftransition as diurnal animals shelterfor the evening, while nocturnalanimals begin their nighttimeactivities. Enjoy a leisurely strollthrough the wetlands as we try tocatch glimpses of nature’s “shift-change”. Reservations requiredbyMay 4. Co-sponsored by RestonHistoric Trust. Free.


THURSDAY/MAY 7 - FRIDAY/MAY 8Big Truck Days. 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Thursday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday.Herndon Public Works Complex,1479 Sterling Road, Herndon. TheTown of Herndon’s Department ofPublic Works hosts its annual “BigTruck Days,” an opportunity forchildren - and their parents - to seethe town’s big trucks and heavyequipment on display. All ages. Free.http://www.herndon-va.gov/.

FRIDAY/MAY 8Friday Night Live! 6:30 p.m. - 10:30

p.m. Herndon Town Green, 777 LynnStreet, Herndon. Outdoor concertseries featuring popular local andregional acts from up and down theeast coast. For information visitwww.herndonrocks.com.

SATURDAY/MAY 9This is My Country: An American

Tribute. 4 and 7:30 p.m., RestonCommunity Center, Hunters Woods,2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. JoinThe Reston Chorale as we celebrateAmerica and honor those who keep itfree with a patriotic pops concert.Free tickets for military personneland their immediate families, as wellas veterans, while supplies last.Tickets for all others: $25/Adults,$20 Seniors, Free for Youth 17andunder (with adult/seniorticketholder). For tickets andinformation: www.restonchorale.org.

Spring Farm Day. 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.Frying Pan Farm Park, 2709 West OxRoad, Herndon. Come see puppetshows, do some crafts or play somegames. You can even milk a real cow.$8 if at the door, $7 if bought inadvance, kids under 2 free.

Mother’s Day Tea Party. 10:30 -11:30 a.m. Walker Nature Center,11450 Glade Drive, Reston. All ages.In honor of Mother’s Day, bring yourmom to a delightful morning at thenature center. Sip tea or juice and

sample a variety of pastries andfruits. Make a bouquet of paperflowers for mom to display on herspecial day. Take a stroll through thegardens to look for spring-bloomingwildflowers. Reservations required byMay 6. Fee: $7/person RA members,$9/person Non-members


FRIDAY/MAY 15Senior Tea. 1 p.m. ArtSpace Herndon,

750 Center Street, Herndon. Everymonth seniors are invited to visit thegallery to view the current exhibitand enjoy a cup of tea and a sweettreat. Special for May 15 we willfeature singer Kitt Potter. Seniorsfrom the Herndon Senior Center areregular visitors. All teas are free andopen to the public.

SATURDAY/MAY 16Spring Gala. 7-9 p.m. ArtSpace

Herndon, 750 Center Street,Herndon. Enjoy a spring eveninghonoring Elma “The Queen ofHerndon” Mankin while enjoying thebeautiful chamber music of the BeauSoir Ensemble. Tickets, per-person,$25 in advance, $30 at the door.Semi-formal. Proceeds from thisevent will go directly to thecontinuation and enhancement offine arts programming at ArtSpaceHerndon. http://www.artspaceherndon.com/spring-gala/.

Herndon High School’s AnnualPaige Saucedo 5k MemorialFundraiser. 9 a.m. - noon.Herndon High School, 700 BennettStreet, Herndon. Herndon HighSchool will host the 4th Annual PaigeR. Saucedo 5K Scholarship Walk/Run. Registration is $20 per adultand $10 per child (under 18). T-shirts will be given to 5K registrantsas supplies last. Proceeds of eventwill benefit Herndon High SchoolESOL students demonstratingacademic excellence and financialneed to support post- high schoolopportunities. Two 1st place $500scholarships will be awarded tostudent race winners, male andfemale (age 14 – 18) regardless ofsecond language criteria.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY/MAY 16-17Northern Virginia Fine Arts

Festival. At Reston Town Center, anevent attracts more than 50,000patrons and provides an interactiveexperience to view, purchase, andexperience art directly from theartists who have created it. Visit

http://northernvirginiafineartsfestival.orgfor more.

SUNDAY/MAY 17Free Junior Golf Clinic. 12:30 p.m. -

2 p.m. Herndon Centennial GolfCourse, 909 Ferndale Ave., Herndon.Kids come out to the course for a freeclinic. Register atwww.herndongolf.com.

WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY/MAY 22-23Brides Against Breast Cancer. 6

p.m. Shertaon Reston Hotel. BridesAgainst Breast Cancer is a nationalnonprofit that tours the countryselling donated wedding gowns withthe proceeds directly going towardsprograms and services for peoplewho are impacted by cancer. Tickets:$5. http://www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=Reston%2C+VA+-+May+2015

SATURDAY/MAY 23Golf Customer Appreciation Day.

Herndon Centennial Golf Course, 909Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Stop by theGolf Course for it’s CustomerAppreciation day.www.herndongolf.com.

MONDAY/MAY 25Memorial Day Observance. 10 a.m.

Chestnut Grove Cemetery, 831Dranesville Road, Herndon. TheHerndon Woman’s Club haspartnered with Chestnut GroveCemetery to honor our Veterans withthe placement of dedication wreaths.703-435-3480.

THURSDAY-SUNDAY/MAY 28-31Herndon Festival. Check website for

specific times. Herndon Town Green,777 Lynn Street, Herndon. Four dayoutdoor festival with threeentertainment stages, a carnival, twofireworks displays, Kid’s Alley withchildren’s art area, arts and craftshow and more! All ages. Visitwww.herndonfestival.net for moreinformation.

SATURDAY/MAY 30-SEPT. 5Reston Concerts on the Town.

7:30-10 p.m. Reston Town Center.The 25th season is extended throughSeptember 5 and kicks off withswing/jump blues favorite Big Joe &the Dynaflows. Bring lawn chairs orpicnic blankets and enjoy live musicin the Pavilion Saturday nights. Free.Rain or shine. Presented by RestonTown Center and Reston Town

Center Association. Alcoholpermitted at restaurants only.Concert information: 703-912-4062www.restontowncenter.com/concerts

SUNDAY/MAY 315K/10K Races. Check website for

specific times. Herndon Town Green,777 Lynn Street, Herndon. A racethat takes you through historicdowntown Herndon during theHerndon Festival weekend. Bothraces are USATF Certified. Forregistration and information visitwww.herndonfestival.net.

SATURDAY/JUNE 6The 2nd Annual Born to Run

Memorial 5K and Family FunRun. 8:30 a.m. Sponsored by theFranklin Middle PTA, it’s in tribute toformer Franklin P.E. teacher JannineParisi, a domestic-violence victimwho died Nov. 20, 2013. Themajority of proceeds will go to theNational Alliance on Mental Illness ofNorthern Virginia. All participantswill receive medals, and thoseregistered by May 24 will receivecommemorative T-shirts. For moreinformation and to register, go tomhttps://prracing.enmotive.com.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 12-132nd Annual Lake Anne Chalk on

the Water Festival. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.Lake Anne Plaza Waterfront, 1609Washington Plaza, Reston. If youever wanted to paint the brickswithout getting in trouble, all agesare welcome to paint Lake AnnePlaza in a technicolor hue asparticipants turns the plaza into achalk art gallery. $5-$15. Register atwww.chalkonthewater.com for more.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 19-21Taste of Reston. Friday: 3-11 p.m.;

Saturday: noon-11 p.m. Sunday: 10a.m. - 8 p.m. Reston Town Center,11900 Market St., Reston. Carnivalgames and rides with a family funzone. Visit www.restontaste.com formore.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 26-JULY 5World Police & Fire Games

Athletes’ Village. Thousands ofathletes from 70 countries willconverge in Fairfax County for 10days of competitions. Entertainmentand activities will be hosted byReston Town Center during thegames. Fairfax2015.com

SATURDAY/JULY 4Herndon 4th of July Celebration. 7

p.m. Bready Park at the HerndonCommunity Center, 814 FerndaleAve., Herndon. A family-fun eventfeaturing games, arts and craftactivities, bingo, food face painting,balloon artists, and fireworks. Visitwww.herndon-va.gov for more.

ONGOINGFree Comedy Showcase. Thursdays

8:30 p.m., at Kalypso’s SportsTavern, 1617 Washington Plaza N.,Lake Anne Village Center, Reston.Kalypso’s hosts weekly comedy showsthat feature some of the best nationaltouring and local comedians in thearea. Free of charge.

Family Fun Entertainment Series.Saturdays 10-10:45 a.m., at RestonTown Square Park, 11990 Market St.,Reston. Every Saturday enjoy liveshows, children’s music and otherchild-friendly entertainment. 703-476-4500.

Movies and Mimosas. Saturday andSunday 11 a.m., at Reston TownCenter, 11940 Market St., Reston.Look up showings online.

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On May 7, the Council forthe Arts of Herndon(CAH) will again be

teaming up with Jimmy’s OldTown Tavern to provide anevening of live music; food anddrinks; raffle prizes; all for a won-derful cause.

The Play it Forward program isan instrument donation program.CAH collects good quality instru-ments for students who wouldotherwise not have been able torent them. The program was firstproposed in 2013 by LauraReadyoff, owner of The MusicLoft, who was hearing from localmusic teachers who were con-cerned about losing frustratedyoung musicians whose resourcescould not cover the cost of pur-chasing or renting good qualityinstruments.

Readyoff proposed that the CAHfund a modest program to collectand refurbish used instruments that had been gath-ering dust in people’s closets and attics, in order toprovide these young future musicians with such lim-ited resources with the tools that would make prac-ticing more joyful and effective.

Faith Notes are for announcements andevents in the faith community, includingspecial holiday services. Send [email protected] is Thursday.

Trinity Presbyterian Church,651 Dranesville Road, Herndon, hasSunday worship services at 8:30 a.m.and 11 a.m. Nursery and childcare areprovided and youth and adult Sundayschool classes are held prior, from 9:40-10:45 a.m. 703-437-5500 orwww.trinityherndon.org.

Vajrayogini Buddhist Center,Unitarian Universalist Church, 1625Wiehle Ave., Reston, holds weeklyclasses starting Sept. 12, Thursdays 7-8:30 p.m., for the general public whichuse Buddhist teachings to practice medi-tation. $12. 202-986-2257 orwww.meditation-dc.org.

St. Anne’s Episcopal Church,1700 Wainwright Drive in Reston, holdsSunday services at 7:45 a.m., 9 a.m.,11:15 a.m. and contemporary service at5 p.m. Nursery, Sunday school and adulteducation available. Morning prayer onMonday at 9:30, Holy EucharistWednesday at 8:15 a.m. 703-437-6530or www.stannes-reston.org.

Adult Sunday school will be held9:30 a.m. Sundays at the WashingtonPlaza Baptist Church at Lake Anne Vil-lage Center. The group is studying theGospel of Mark. Services follow at 11a.m.

HAVEN of Northern Virginia of-fers a variety of free bereavementsupport groups, meeting on a weeklybasis. Contact 703-941-7000 orwww.havenofnova.org for schedulesand registration information.

The first Play it Forward event at Jimmy’s Old TownTavern, April 2013. From left, Grace Han Wolf (immedi-ate past president, CAH), Signe Friedrichs, executivedirector, CAH and Elysa Birman, board member andowner, Friendly Computers Herndon.

Faith Notes

‘Play It Forward’ with theCouncil of the Arts of Herndon

DetailsMay 7, 6-9 p.m.,

Jimmy’s Old TownTavern, 697 SpringStreet, Herndon.

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Since then, this program has become an annualevent, culminating with celebratory fundraiser atJimmy’s Old Town Tavern. This event includes livemusic by Jerry Irwin, in addition to the raffles andgiveaways.

To honor Mom on Mother’s Day, send us your favorite snapshots of you withyour Mom and The Connection will publish them in our Mother’s Day issue. Besure to include some information about what’s going on in the photo, plus yourname and phone number and town of residence. To e-mail digital photos, send to:

[email protected] to mail photo prints, send to:

The Oak Hill/Herndon Connection, “Me and My Mom Photo Gallery,”1606 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314

Photo prints will be returned to you if you include a stamped, self-addressed enve-lope, but please don’t send us anything irreplaceable.

“Me and My Mom”


By Brian McNicoll

Kaleem Shah won’t havea wager on Saturday’sKentucky Derby. “I do

not gamble,” he says.But he will have much more

than a rooting interest. Shah,who lives in Vienna, is theowner of Dortmund, one of thefavorites in this year’s Run forthe Roses.

Shah grew up in Bellary insouthern India. His father, ahorse trainer who twice wonthe Triple Crown of India, toldhim not to get into the businessuntil he earned a degree andmade money on his own so hewouldn’t have to go through thehand-to-mouth existence ofmany horse people.

So after earning a degree inelectrical engineering in India,Shah came to the United Statesand earned graduate degreesfrom Clemson and GeorgeWashington University. In 1989,he founded CALNET, a govern-ment contracting firm, and builtit into a multimillion-dollarcompany.

Then, in 1996, he got intohorse racing. He started small,purchasing inexpensive horsesin Maryland, then began tomove up. In 2014, his horse,Bayern, won the Haskell Stakes,the Pennsylvania Derby and aBreeders Cup race. “We wereknocking on the door last year,”he said. “This year, we got in.”

And in a big way. Dortmundis a co-favorite – “I would behonored if he were the favor-ite, but it’s going to be close,”

Shah says – with a horse knownas American Pharaoh. Bothhorses are trained by BobBaffert. Shah’s father is knownas the Bob Baffert of India.

Shah says his horse “arguablycould be among the best of hisgeneration. He has these longstrides … he can cover as muchdistance with one stride as mosthorses do in two.”

So far, Dortmund is six-for-sixand won the Santa Anita Derby,a key prep race.

Shah said he will go to Louis-ville a couple of days early andlooks forward to spending timeon the track’s backside. “That’swhere the action is,” he says.

On race day, he looks forwardto “doing the walk (through thepaddock area) with my son.”

It will be easy to pick outwhich horse is Shah’s. Hisowner silks are the stars andstripes of the U.S. flag. “It’s be-cause of my love for this coun-try,” said Shah, who became aU.S. citizen in the early 1990s.“I support the country. I supportthe troops. The country hasdone so much for me and forall of us.”

Meet the Vienna man whoowns the favored horse in theKentucky Derby.

Vienna’s Horse inKentucky Race

Photos contributed

Kaleem Shah (right) with Bob Baffert before the 2014Breeders Cup which Bayern Won at Santa Anita Park.

Kaleem Shah with wifeLubna in the saddlingarea at Santa Anita Park

By Jon Roetman

The Connection

Herndon girls’ soccercoach Nick Stames saidthe Hornets struggled

for the first 15 minutes ofMonday’s match againstCentreville.

As for reserve forward OliviaDuston, it didn’t take the Herndonfreshman nearly that long to makea positive impact for the Hornets.

Duston subbed into the gamelate in the first half and roughlyone minute later, scored the tyinggoal in the 33rd minute. Neitherteam scored in the second half norovertime and the Hornets andWildcats finished in a 1-all tie onApril 27 at Herndon High School.

“It’s like we couldn’t get our legsgoing,” Stames said of Herndon’sslow start. “Passes weren’t con-necting; everything was a little bitdisorganized in our midfield.”

Duston had no such problem.“Both subs contributed to that

goal,” Stames said. “JenessaCollymore went in, pressured theball, got a deflection and Oliviascored on that. Both subs that wemade made an impact immedi-ately.”

Centreville sophomore CamrynConklin scored in the game’s open-ing minute. Both teams had oppor-tunities in the second half andovertime, but neither could scorea second goal.

“We talked about a few thingsat halftime, made a few adjust-ments in how we were going toplay and I think the girls playedwell in the second half,” Stamessaid. “The thing is, you don’t getmany great chances to score andyou’ve got to finish your chances.I think if we do, we win that game.”

The draw moved Herndon’s record to 3-4-2, in-cluding 0-2-1 against Conference 5 opponents.Centreville, which finished 6A state runner-up lastseason, moved to 7-1-2, including 1-0-2 in the con-ference.

While the Hornets didn’t come away with a win,they might have come away with something else.

“I think because [of] years of losing, I don’t thinka lot of teams give Herndon a lot of respect,” Stamessaid. “We talked about; let’s get some respect from

Adriana Garcia, right, is a captain for the Herndon girls’soccer team.

Freshman forward Olivia Duston scored Herndon’s lonegoal during a 1-all tie against Centreville on April 27.

Megan Klenk (6) is the Herndon girls’ soccer team’sleading goal-scorer this season.

Freshman Duston’s Goal HelpsHerndon in Search for RespectHornets play to1-all tie against2014 staterunner-upCentreville.

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this game.”Stames said this is the deepest team he’s had at

Herndon. Junior forward Megan Klenk is the Hor-nets’ leading goal-scorer this season.

“She strikes the ball pretty well with both feet,”Stames said. “She just has a knack around the goalabout getting herself free. She uses her body wellas a target. She’s also deceptively quick. She canget a first step on you and hit a ball.”

Herndon will host Chantilly at 7 p.m. on Thurs-day, April 30.


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To have community events listed inthe Connection, send to [email protected] by the Fri-day prior to the following week’s paper.

WEDNESDAY/MAY 13Reston – League of Women

Voters meeting on growth inFairfax County. 7:30-9 p.m.North County GovernmentalCenter, 1801 Cameron Glen Drive,Reston. Where is the County’sgrowth going to go? What haschanged in Fairfax County’s landuse and where do we go fromhere? Free, open to the public(men and women), call 703-757-5893. Background papers atwww.lwv-fairfax.org.

ONGOINGFood Addicts in Recovery.

Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at The VineChurch, 2501 Gallows Road, DunnLoring. Food Addicts in RecoveryAnonymous (FA) is a free twelvestep recovery program for anyonesuffering from food obsession,overeating, under-eating orbulimia. For more information ora list of additional meetingsthroughout the U.S. and the world,call 781-932-6300 orwww.foodaddicts.org.

Fairfax County’s Meals onWheels urgently needs drivers inthe Reston and McLean areas. 703-324-5406, TTY 711 orwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults.

Claire de la Paz, 13,wows the RestonCommunityCenter’sCenterStageaudience with"Mad Noise,"choreographed byGillmer Duran.

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Discovering the Artsin Everyday Places

Classical Ballet Theatrewill participate in acreative collaboration

for this year’s edition of theNorthern Virginia Fine Arts Fes-tival. A regional favorite, thisevent invites art fans of all agesto interact with multiple visualartists and their works in fun,outdoor spaces at Reston TownCenter. Attendees will also en-joy unique performances, asfour dance companies will bepresenting choreography in re-sponse to sculptures created byMary Anne Mears and PatrickDougherty.

Representing the only pre-professional dance organizationinvited, the Classical Ballet The-atre (CBT) students and Artis-tic Director Gillmer Duran arethrilled about this opportunity.With his signature style, Duranis creating a piece titled“Branching Out,” with music by

Zoe Keating. Duran said, “I findthe words that Ms. Mears andMr. Dougherty use to describetheir sculptures to be inspiring.Both artists created pieces thatrespond in unique ways to thephysical and spatial qualities ofthe sites that host them. 'Branch-ing Out' is my way of offering aperforming arts element thatharmonizes with these essentialqualities, while also bringingphysical energy and exhilara-tion. It is yet an additional wayto celebrate the importance ofhuman interaction with art ineveryday life.”

Duran thanks the GreaterReston Arts Center for invitingCBT to perform, and he encour-ages all who enjoy the arts tocome to Reston Town Center onSaturday, May 16 and Sunday,May 17. Visit northernvirginiafineartsfestival.org/Art-ists2015/ArtistList2015.php.

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By KENNETH B. LOURIE

DeepSpaceMind

A few years back (OKAY, more than a fewyears back; I’ll blame the cancer for my timelapse), there was a spin-off from the originalStar Trek: Star Trek: The Next Generationcaptained by Jean-Luc Picard (a.k.a. PatrickStewart) which itself spawned two otherspin-offs: Star Trek Voyager and Deep SpaceNine (commanded by Avery Brooks, a.k.a.Captain Sisko). I was reminded of thistelevision-watching time of my life recentlywhen I saw a former Deep Space Nineactor’s name (the son, actually: Remy) in thecredits of a recent “The Good Wife”:Auberjonois.

On Deep Space Nine, René Auberjonois(the father) played a non-humanoid charac-ter from a race known as Changelings, shapeshifters; a species able to transform/ con-form/reform itself into any shape. For thepurpose of the show, Constable Odo, as hewas known, who was the director of securityon the space station, “shape shifted” himselfinto a humanoid form. He mostly looked,acted and spoke as any other human.However, his facial features were noticeablyimperfect, and his ears were also a bitunusual. Occasionally, when Odo did not goto his quarters in a reasonable cycle of time(never really specified) and in turn did nothave the opportunity to return to his naturalstate: described as “gelatinous goo,” toreside in his bucket, his features wouldbegin to lose their shape and he wouldappear to be melting (an occurrence/appearance he was determined to hide).Though this circumstance rarely manifesteditself, when it did, Odo explained howstressful it was for him to maintain theshape/illusion of a humanoid (given the intri-cacies of the species) and how the demandsof doing so (consciously, subconsciously)were nearly overwhelming. This story linewas not dominant, but us regular viewersunderstood the ongoing strain on Odo andwhat might happen if he didn’t have thetime to regenerate in his bucket.

Now I don’t have a natural state otherthan the obvious, or a bucket for that matter(I have a couch), but I can certainly relate toOdo’s emotional/psychological fears andanxieties and the effort required to maintainwhat appears – to the outside world anyway,to be a “normal” existence. For a cancer sur-vivor/patient, “normal” no longer exists. Infact, the date of your diagnosis/prognosis isthe day/date when normal ceases to exist.For me, that date was February 27, 2009,the date Team Lourie first met with myoncologist and heard the unbelievable newsthat I had non-small cell lung cancer, stageIV, a “terminal” diagnosis. My oncologist fur-ther added that he could “treat me but hecouldn’t cure me.” “Excuse me. What didyou say?”

And just like Odo, I try to hide/minimizemy situation. I don’t want to, if at all possi-ble, exhibit any of the signs or circumstancesof my diagnosis. I try to live life as normallyas possible and not bring attention to myselfor my particular challenges. Let me assureyou, maintaining this façade would be a loteasier if I too had a bucket in which I couldreturn to some gelatinous-type goo andregain my strength. But I don’t. I only havemy privacy, where I can retreat in anattempt to summon up the fortitude neces-sary to take each day as it comes withoutfurther adieu. Some days are more difficultthan others, particularly those days waitingfor the results of a current CT Scan twomonths after a prior scan showed newtumors/growth. Odo mostly managed toendure his unique challenges, and I amstriving to do the same. Seeing the actor’sname on television the other week inspiredme that even though I am often alone withmy thoughts, I am not alone. And as onewho has been there and done that, I knowthere is strength in our survivor numbers;hopefully in reruns too, especially whenyou’ve been given a “terminal” diagnosis.


By Andrea Worker

The Connection

They did it! In February, The Con-nection reported that the studentsof Cynthia Burgett’s special Civics

class at Rachel Carson Middle School inHerndon had won the State Championshipof the “We The People Competition” andwere determined to bring home the gold atthe National Invitationals. On April 20, atthe Marriott Fair Lakes, they did just that,being crowned the national champions atthe third annual Middle School Divisionevent. The qualifying rounds of the nation-als took place at George Mason University,where the Rachel Carson kids were upagainst eight other teams from around thecountry, including the junior high groupfrom Indiana who had taken the top hon-ors for the last two years. “We were soexcited when we heard that we were go-ing on to compete for first place,” ad-mitted team member Maggie Sparling.“Yes,” agreed classmate Debbie Dong.“That meant no matter what, wewouldn’t place less than third overall. Wewanted to do our school and teacherproud!”

THE COMPETITION, part of the out-reach efforts of the California-based non-profit Center for Civic Education, re-quires serious commitment from the stu-dents and their teacher. The team wasformed back in October of last year. Toget to the final round of competition, theyoungsters had to survive numerouspractice rounds, the regionals inPurcellville and the state championshipin Williamsburg, where they finallyearned the right to represent their schooland the Commonwealth.

Formatted to simulate congressionalhearings, the competition divides the stu-dents into six groups based on the sixunits of the textbook “We the People: TheCitizen and the Constitution” where theyact as constitutional experts “testifying”before a panel. Inthis case, the panel,rather than compris-ing senators or con-gressmen, is madeup of recognized ex-perts in the field ofconstitutional law,government, foreignaffairs and relatedareas. “It was prettyintense,” acknowl-edged MaggieSparling, whoseteam was taskedwith the unit covering the Bill of Rights andthe concept of Due Process. “The judges

Rachel Carson Wins ‘We The People’ NationalsNews

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Herndon middleschoolers crownednational champions.

“We won!” Students from Rachel Carson Middle School, participating inthe national finals of the “We The People” competition, react when theyhear the announcement for the second place winners. “That meant wewere the winners! We just went a bit crazy. We couldn’t believe it,” saidteam member Debbie Dong.

The young winners of the Middle School Division “We The People” competi-tion title from Rachel Carson Middle School in Herndon pose with their firstplace plaque.

were attorneys, pro-fessors, people likethat from all aroundthe country. You re-ally had to knowwhat you were talk-ing about.”

Each “hearing”opens with a Unitgiving a four-minutespeech about theirsubject. The judgesthen have six min-utes to ask follow-up

questions, or probe for knowledge by ask-ing new questions within the field of study.

“I think there were a few surprises,” saidVarshini Babu, who was part of the Unit 3team, “but we had a good strategy. Eachperson on the team had a strength and adepth of knowledge on a certain piece ofthe unit and we knew how to get the rightperson to answer each question.”

Developing those strategies for studying,preparation of speeches and for communi-cating the team’s comprehensive under-standing of each topic and ability to applytheir knowledge to current day affairs wasas important as learning the actual textbookmaterial, according to the youngsters whorepresented their winning team membersduring an interview.

For example, Unit 2 expert AmritGorle noted that the judges seemed tolike a bit of disagreement among theteam members. “If you politely showeddifferent opinions that were based onknowledge, and then came to agree-ment for your answers, it showed themthat you all knew the information andreally thought about it.”

“That was a good thing,” declaredDebbie Dong from Unit 6. “We had somebattles in our group.” “Don’t forget thetie back,” said Ria Singh.

“We found it was really important tobring our answers back to the originalquestion, or the basis of our unit. I thinkit showed that we could keep it all to-gether and stay focused,” Singh said.

While some of their strategies wereapplied universally across all six units,the students were also able to adaptstrategies unique to their individualunits to accommodate the strengths andweaknesses of individual team mem-bers.

THE TROPHY and the recognitionmake all of the hard work worthwhile,but other lessons and benefits garnered

seemed to be of equal import to the win-ners. The opportunity to make new friends(“Real ones, that you can have real conver-sations with,” as defined by MaggieSparling) came in high on the list of thegood things to take away from the experi-ence. “Learning to collaborate,” was a ben-efit to Amrit Gorle, and “learning and prac-ticing effective communication, being clear,concise and pertinent,” was a valuable les-son for Varshini Babu.

“This was a real life experience,” said Unit4 member Sophie Halkett, “where you weretested and had to think on your feet. It washard work and sometimes scary, but Iwouldn’t have missed it for anything.”

The WinnersUnit 1

Varun GannavarapuRia SinghAngie SohnAnanya Vavilala

Unit 2Amrit GorleShivam GandhiEthan NguonlyBindu SrinivasaSerena Xia

Unit 3Varshini BabuShruti ChennamarajaRyan KimSitara Uppalapati

Unit 4Sophie HalkettEsha SainiRachit SinhaNoah Yeh

Unit 5Cameron KhanVikrant MahajanAlexa SchwartzmanMargaret SparlingMeenoti Thakore

Unit 6Debbie DongNoah GrauszEli KaufmanJoyce Liu

“The judges wereattorneys, professors,people like that from allaround the country. Youreally had to know whatyou were talking about.”

— Maggie Sparling

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ● April 2015 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com online at www.connectionnewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC

Oak Hill ❖ HerndonOak Hill ❖ Herndon

Education&ActivitiesSummer●Camps

Education&ActivitiesSummer●Camps2015

2 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● April 2015 ● Oak Hill/Herndon Connection www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Summer Sailing Camp

Summer●CampsiEducation&Activities

carry into adulthood, she says.Sailing class is empowering, Zang says.

Children don’t have much in their lives thatthey can be fully in charge of. “I give themtrust, here is a boat, and you can learn tosail it and they give trust back. They learnresponsibility and it is a huge confidencebuilder for both male and female students.Sailing isn’t about strength.” She adds,“When kids come they love it and keep re-turning year after year.” She said word ofmouth is powerful and she has had a num-ber of children for many years.

She calls each day “controlled chaos”where she has to be mentally two stepsahead watching weather, keeping track ofthe boats at all times and supervising theinstructors as well as tending to childrenwho may need special attention. “Everysingle cog in the wheel has to work.” Zangdescribes herself as a big communicator andsends group email updates to parents dur-ing the week. If there are specific things topass along she emails the parents directly.

At this time of year, Zang is interviewingstaff, rescheduling returning staff, review-ing insurance policies and other business,organizing buses, getting boats ready for theseason “putting a screwdriver to everyscrew, washing out boats and getting themin the water.”

Zang offers bus service pickup fromBethesda. This year, a mom organized agroup of 24 sailing campers from Chantillyso “I am sending a bus there to pick up thekids that week.” Sailing students come fromall over the metropolitan area and some arevisiting relatives and attend sailing campfor a week or two. “We have a lot of diplo-mat kids, too, a nice diverse population.”

The staff includes more than 40 full-timesummer counselors; many started in sail-ing camp themselves a number of years ago.“I have one counselor this year who startedcamp when he was 9.” She has better thana 1-6 ratio of staff to campers.

Beginning Sunfish classes sail from the dock on a summer morning topractice the day’s maneuvers.

By Shirley Ruhe

Gazette Packet

Amy Zang has just returned froma week sailing the British VirginIsles with nine members of herextended family ranging from

her 78-year-old, legally-blind father to herbrother’s 4- and 6-year old children.

“I was the captain of the 46-foot catama-ran, but I had to get used to it. It is thebiggest boat I have sailed. You use the samesailing skills but adapt the technique whenthe boat is this large.”

Zang is the director and owner of theYouth Sailing Day Camp at the WashingtonSailing Marina. The Washington SailingMarina camp offers six different youth sail-ing classes in the summer with the Sunfishfor beginners and the Flying Scot for inter-mediates. The advanced class uses a HobieCat. The racing class sails a Collegiate 420that is a fast, maneuverable boat allowingcampers the chance to work on boat bal-ance and roll tacks.

Adventures on a Big Boat sails a Catalina25. This group has a picnic lunch underanchor on Thursdays and they, along withthe intermediate boats, sail to Old Town forlunch on Fridays. Other groups getsmoothies on Friday “so everyone gets atreat.”

Sailing students must be certified beforemoving on to the next level. Some camperscome for one week and others move up theskill level over successive weeks at camp.Windsurfing is also offered.

The camp opens June 1 and runs weeklythrough Aug. 22, and is already over 50percent full. The classes run from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and are open to rising third grad-ers-15 years of age. She thinks childrenchoose sailing for summer because “it isdifferent, it is outside, it is hands on andthey get immediate gratification.” Theywalk away with a life skill that they can

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ● April 2015 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com


By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

Julie Kaminski remembers the language from her desperate lettersto her parents: “I love you. I wantto come home now!” She recalls

penning a dramatic plea to be rescued fromresidential summer camp more than 40years ago. Today, Kaminski is preparing forher daughter’s first camp experience awayfrom home this summer.

“Looking back, I can see how going awayto camp helped me become more self-suffi-cient, self confident, self-reliant and taughtme how to get along with so many differ-ent kinds of people,” said Kaminski, a localmother of two children.

“Of course I didn’t think that at the time.I was extremely homesick even though itwas my idea to go to sleep away camp inthe first place.”

A child’s first residential summer campexperience can be fraught with emotionsthat run the gamut from excitement to ter-ror. While glee at the thought of a summerfilled with sports, swimming, crafts andnew-found friendships can be the dominantfeeling, the thought of an extended periodof time away from home can cause sadnessand anxiety for both parents and their chil-dren.

An American Camp Association studyshowed that 96 percent of children whoattend sleep away camps experience home-sickness at some point during their stay.While these emotions are normal, parentscan help children tame the pre-camp jitters.The life-long lessons gained from suchcamps make it worth the effort.

“Becoming comfortable with your childbeing away at summer camp, perhaps thefirst extended separation you have had, isa matter of trust,” said David Kaplan, Ph.D.of the American Counseling Association inAlexandria, Va.

“Trusting your child that they can handlethemselves without your supervision. Trust-ing that they can handle relationships withother children. Trusting that they can getup in the morning, take a shower, wash theirclothes, and change their sheets withoutyour prodding.”

ACKNOWLEDGING THAT homesicknessis normal and many campers experience it,can help children accept and cope with theiremotions.

“Expecting to miss home and feel some-what anxious helps children feel less sur-prised and overwhelmed when it occurs,”said Barbara Meehan, Ph.D. executive di-rector, Counseling and Psychological Ser-vices, George Mason University in Fairfax,Va.

A child’s apprehension can be eased whenparents share their own camp experiences,

particularly positive memories.“Don’t let your child get caught up in your

own anxiety about leaving for camp,” saidLinda McKenna Gulyn, Ph.D., professor ofpsychology at Marymount University in Ar-lington, Va. “Kids sometimes worry aboutthe parents they left behind. Be positive,but not sad that your child is leaving.”

Meehan says that developing a few self-soothing activities like playing outdoors orreading is one strategy for helping childrendeal with feelings of missing home. Identi-fying people with whom young campers canshare their emotions is another means fordealing with homesickness.

“Talking to a camp counselor and evenpeers can help ease the difficult feelings andoften they will learn they are not alone,”said Meehan.

Encouraging a child to make friends andbecome involved in camp activities will put

the focus on the positive aspects of camp.Packing letters and stamped envelopes anddeveloping a plan for letter exchange canhelp a child feel connected to their fami-lies.

“Isolating and avoiding what feels hardcan often worsen anxiety and homesick-ness,” said Meehan. “Remind your childthey are stronger than they feel in the mo-ment and that engaging in camp activitiescan be helpful.”

There are times however when a childmight not be ready for residential camps.The American Camp Association reportsthat while most cases of homesickness sub-side, there are cases — if a child is not eat-ing or sleeping, for example — when itcould be time to seek help. “Consult withcamp professionals about resources if yourchild’s anxiety worsens or persists,” saidMeehan.

Many emotions arisewhen a child leavesfor camp.

Preparing for Summer Camp Away

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Summer camp experiences can help children become self-confident and self-reliant.

Paralympic SportsTeam Seeking Players

The Fairfax Falcons Paralympic Sports team, a FairfaxCounty Neighborhood and Recreation Services Thera-peutic Recreation program, is recruiting new players.The team provides a variety of sports experiences to ath-letes with physical disabilities impacting their lower ex-tremities ages 4 1/2 to 18 (or high school graduation).Not all athletes use wheelchairs for everyday use. Someathletes are ambulatory and only use a wheelchair forsports. Their primary sport is wheelchair basketball,which runs late August through April. In the spring, they

Credit for academic courses is transferable to thestudent’s current school. JROTC leadership credit equalsone high school course credit.

STEM CAMP Massanutten offers STEM SummerCamp, two two-week camps running from June 29-July10 and July 20-31, open to students grades 7-12. Thissummer camp offers students the chance to explore themany facets of STEM education including hands-on ex-periences. Upon completion of the STEM Summer Camp,students will receive a certification of completion.Massanutten Military Academy offers the safety of astructured learning environment, as well as the fun of asummer camp through a combination of classroom timeand activities. Visit www.militaryschool.com/summer-school-2015.asp.

offer a variety of sports including floor hockey, track, field,fishing, rugby, golf, and football. For more information,email [email protected].

Summer at MassanuttenEach year, Massanutten Military Academy offers a five-

week intensive summer school program, an opportunityfor students to get ahead in their learning, make up forbad or failing grades, or increase their knowledge and par-ticipation in their JROTC leadership skills. MassanuttenMilitary Academy offers the safety of a structured learningenvironment, as well as the fun of a summer camp througha combination of classroom time and weekend activities.The program is offered June 27-Aug. 1, 2015.

Camps&Schools●Notes

4 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● April 2015 ● Oak Hill/Herndon Connection Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ● April 2015 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.comwww.ConnectionNewspapers.com

By Steve Hibbard

The Connection

Scores of local camps in Northern Virginia that offer many opportunitiesfor summer fun and learning. Hereis a sampling of diverse camps that

range from art to theater to field trips toswimming, tennis and music. There’s evena camp for aspiring musicians who want toform a band.

ROAM Rock CampROAM Rock Camp gives children the op-

portunity to build communication skills andconfidence through the language of music.The camps are designed to focus on whyeach participant wants to be in a band, whythey love music and what they want to getout of it. The goal is to create an environ-ment or band that children will thrive in.They will hand select each member to cre-ate a group that best fits their age and orexperience. During the camp, groups willlearn three to four of their favorite songs oreven write songs if they wish. At the end ofthe week they will record the group and givethem a CD to take home to show off theirprogress.

“The best thing about these camps is thatwe are able to show these young musiciansfrom first-hand experience how to be play-ers and performers. I wish I had somethinglike this when I was growing up,” said JohnPatrick, owner/director, who is the formerco-founder of the national touring act Vir-ginia Coalition.

Camps are offered from June 1 to Aug.28. To register, contact ROAM to let themknow every week your child would be avail-able to do a camp. Deadline for registrationis June 1.

Contact info: Rock of Ages Music, 114 E.Del Ray Ave., Alexandria VA 22301; call 703-838-2130. [email protected].

Burgundy FarmBurgundy Farm offers two summer camps:

a day camp at the 25-acre Alexandria cam-pus in eight week-long sessions, and a sleep-away camp in three sessions at BurgundyCenter for Wildlife Studies in Capon Bridge,W.Va. Both camps are great options for chil-dren excited about learning in the outdoorswith dedicated counselors. Day campersswim every day, and programs includesports, science and performing and visualarts. Sleep-away camp provides a mix ofstructure and freedom, fostering a respectto the natural world through greater knowl-edge of nature and self.

“At Burgundy Farm Summer Day Camp,our campers enjoy all the benefits of a sleep-away camp with the convenience of a daycamp, including swimming, animal encoun-ters, nature exploration, forming strongbonds and friendships with other campersand counselors, and the opportunity to buildself-esteem and confidence in a fun and

friendly environment,” said Hugh Squire,director of auxiliary services.

Burgundy Farm Summer Day Camp is lo-cated on the Alexandria campus of BurgundyFarm Country Day School, 3700 BurgundyRoad, Alexandria. Lower and upper divi-sions, grouped by age and interest, for chil-dren ages 3-years-8-months to 12 years old.Camp runs Monday, June 15-Friday, Aug. 7.Register at www.burgundyfarm.org/sum-mer-programs. Contact Hugh Squire [email protected] or 703-842-0480.

Burgundy Center for Wildlife StudiesCamp is located within 500 acres in a se-cluded valley near Capon Bridge, W.Va. Over-night junior session (age 8-10) for one weekin August - currently waitlist only; seniorsessions (11-15) for two weeks in June, Julyor August; adult weekend (21+) in July.Register at www.burgundycenter.org. Con-tact Michele McCabe [email protected] or 703-842-0470.

Burke Racquetand Swim

Burke Racquet and Swim Sport Camp hasbeen a hidden treasure in Burke for morethan 27 years. Tucked behind the KaiserPermanente Building in Burke, the indoorcamp is the ideal setting for children whowant to do a variety of sports. It offers swim-ming, tennis, and rock climbing daily. It alsooffers Zumba, soccer and camp games.

All of the Sports Camp staff has been back-

ground checked through Fairfax County;they are CPR/AED trained.

The camp offers full day ($280 per week)and half day mornings or afternoons ($180per week). There is before and after campcare for working parents. The first week ofcamp begins June 22 and goes through Aug.28. Call Burke Racquet and Swim Club at703-250-1299.

Soccer Academy Inc.The Soccer Academy offers a wide range

of innovative, state-of-the-art programs thatmeet the interests and playing abilities ofall players and teams. It caters to individu-als and teams of all ages. All residentialcamps include a goalkeeping camp. Daycamps include E.C. Lawrence Park inCentreville and Patriot Park for ages 5-14.Residential Camps at University of MaryWashington, Fredericksburg and RandolphMacon Academy, Front Royal, for ages 9-18.Visit www.soccer-academy.com for camp lo-cations, costs, dates and times. Call 703-393-7961 or email [email protected].

Kenwood SummerDay Camp

Kenwood Summer Day Camp makes ittheir mission to provide campers with newexperiences and lasting friendships eachsummer. “Whether it’s watching a baseballgame, riding a roller coaster, or seeingknights joust from the front row, we takepride in giving them these opportunities andwatching them share it with their newfriends,” said Justin Elcano, camp director.

Kenwood Summer Day campers can go ondaily field trips to exciting destinations in-cluding water parks, mini golf, roller skat-ing, amusement parks and more. Campers

also have a wide variety of activities to keepthem entertained while they are on campus.There is a large wooded playground that ishome to many kickball, capture the flag, andbasketball games. They have five themedrooms that hold arts and crafts, video games,board games, ping pong, air hockey, andmovies.

Kenwood summer day camp is open tochildren who have completed kindergartenthrough 8th grade. Camp starts June 15 andgoes through Sept. 2. Visit the website tofind a calendar with a schedule for eachweek at www.camp.kenwoodschool.com.Call 703-256- 4711 or [email protected].

Metropolitan Schoolof the Arts

Metropolitan School of the Arts offer pre-professional summer dance, music theaterand acting camps. It also offers a wide vari-ety of youth summer camps where studentscan explore and learn many facets of the per-forming and visual arts, including minicamps for the youngest students, ages 3-5,youth camps for students in grades 1-6, andintensives for students age 8 and up. Pri-vate summer music lessons are also avail-able for piano, voice, guitar, violin anddrums.

“MSA summer camps are the perfect wayto try something new and a great way tokeep young bodies active and develop newfriendships,” said Melissa Dobbs, presidentof Metropolitan School of the Arts in Lortonand Alexandria. “Whether your child is pas-sionate about the performing arts or justlooking to have some fun, MSA camps offercreative programs for all skill levels.”

The Lorton campus is at 9601 Ox Road,Lorton, and the Alexandria Campus is at

5775 Barclay Road, Kingstowne, Va. Call703-339-0444 or visitwww.metropolitanarts.org.

Langley SchoolSummer Studio

The Langley School Summer Studio fea-tures more than 70 classes that allow for thepersonal, social, and intellectual growth ofeach camper in preschool to 8th grade. In-novative and engaging academic and STEMprograms stimulate with math adventures,robots, and Raspberry Pi. Explorationabounds as campers take exciting field tripsto become field scientists who investigatethe Chesapeake Bay, cyclists who traverselocal mountain bike terrain, and magicianswho create illusions. The spotlight alsoshines on experiences that get campers “inthe studio” with a Pulitzer Prize-winningphotographer or the lead choreographer anddancer for MC Hammer.

“Each year, we look to add to our diverseroster of classes while growing the peren-nial favorites to ensure The Langley SchoolSummer Studio offers the best possible ex-perience for our campers,” said Director ofAuxiliary Programs Jennafer Curran.“Whether taking part in one of many fieldtrips, exploring a new interest like soccer ordance, or refining math or reading skills, ourcampers develop academically, socially, andemotionally … and have a great time in theprocess.”

The Langley School Summer Studio willrun in six weekly sessions from June 15 –July 31, for students in preschool to grade8. Classes are held at The Langley School inMcLean, and take advantage of the 9.2-acrecampus, featuring a wooded nature area,state-of-the-art athletic center, artificial turffield, computer labs, and age-appropriate

Northern Virginia has scoresof local camps for summerlearning and fun.


Diverse Camps Offer Summer Fun

Photo contributed

FCPA Camps and the Rec-PAC Program camps take placeall over the county.

Photo contributed

The Girls Junior Elite enjoy soccer camp at theSoccer Academy at E.C. Lawrence Park in Centrevilleand Patriot Park in Fairfax this summer.

Photo contributed

The Art League’s Summer ArtCamps in Alexandria includes FiberArt Camp.

Photo contributed

Children participate in Field Day atKenwood Summer Day Camp inAnnandale.

Photo contributed

Campers enjoy the rock climbingwall at Burke Racquet and SwimClub’s Sports Camp.

See Page 6

playgrounds. Visit www.langleyschool.org/summerstudio for details or to registeronline. Call 703-356-1920 or [email protected].

Bishop Ireton CampBishop Ireton High School offers campers

the opportunity to participate in sports and/or theater while developing individual andgroup skills and fostering a love of the ac-tivity. It offer boys camps (baseball, basket-ball, lacrosse and football); girls camps (bas-ketball, lacrosse and volleyball); and coedcamps (soccer, theater). Age ranges for thecamps are rising 1st graders to rising seniorsdepending on the camp. The 17 camp ses-sions are conducted by the school’s coachesor teachers and assisted by student counse-lors. Lunch is provided for full day campsby the cafeteria at no extra cost.

“Last year we had nearly 600 campers at-tend one of our sports or theater camps. Thecamps are a great way for youngsters to getto know us and for our coaches and theaterteachers to get to know them,” said PeterHamer, summer camp director.

The camp brochure and sign up form canbe found under the athletics tab atwww.bishopireton.org. Contact Peter Hamerat [email protected] or 703-212-5190.

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Centreville DanceAcademy

Summer Camp at Centreville Dance Acad-emy is a great way for a child to experiencedance in a fun and safe atmosphere. It of-fers a Princess Party Camp, Broadway BoundCamp, Glitz & Glam Camp, and Me & MyDoll Camp. Dancers will enjoy pretendingto be their favorite characters, dressing up,and creating fun crafts. On the final day ofcamp there will be an in-studio performancefor family and friends.

“Summer camp is a great way to exposeyour child to all that dance has to offer.Dance camp is a wonderful place to buildlasting memories and relationships with theCDA teachers and new friends. We love see-ing the dancers grow each year,” said KathyTaylor, owner/director.

Princess Party Camp offers The Little Mer-maid from July 6-10; Frozen from July 27-31; Princess Ballerina from Aug. 3-7; andFrozen from Aug. 17-21.

Broadway Bound Camp is July 13-17. Glitz& Glam is July 20-24 and Aug. 10-14. Meand My Doll is June 29-July 13.

Register on the website through the Par-ent Portal. Centreville Dance Academy islocated at 14215-G Centreville Square,Centreville. Visit www.centrevilledance.com,call 703-815-3125 or [email protected].

Park Authority andRec-PAC

The Fairfax County Park Authority offersmore than 1,400 summer day camp optionsat 100 locations plus the six-week theme-based summer Rec-PAC programs at nearly50 elementary schools every summer.

Camps are held at RECenters, historicsites, lakefront parks and schools and offera variety of camp titles. Both camps and Rec-PAC offer children a chance to have fun,build friendships and have a safe and re-warding summer experience. The Rec-PACprogram runs June 29 through Aug. 6 from8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. daily and is open tochildren in Fairfax County who are risingfirst graders through those who finishedsixth grade.

Registration begins April 27 online atw w w. f a i r f a x c o u n t y. g o v / p a r k s /

recpacwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/recpac.There is an $8 discount per week for thosewho register before June 12. Partial schol-arships are available for those who qualifythrough free and reduced lunch program.The large summer camp program beginsearly June with camps for preschoolers andlater in June for school age campers.

From crafts and games to high-tech andhigh adventure, the Park Authority hassomething for everyone. Many camps offerswimming at RECenters each day as well as

extended care for working parents. Sportsenthusiasts can choose from an array of skill-development camps, including British soc-cer, basketball, football, baseball,cheerleading, archery, lacrosse or extremesports programs. Enjoy the outdoors? Thencheck out the boating, fishing and bikingcamps. Specialty camps such as Young Chef’sCooking, Chess, Geocaching and Girls Lead-ership allow for exploring new interests ordeveloping a new skill. There is also an ar-ray of STEM programs that stimulate cogni-tive development and enhance critical think-ing. New camps are available in 2015 andinclude Ninja Stars, Longboarding Camp,Brazilian Soccer, Overnight Camps, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Kayak Fishing, fun newart camps, tons of new engineering campsand many more. The search and browseoptions on the website( w w w. f a i r f a x c o u n t y. g o v / p a r k s /campswww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/camps)make it easy to narrow choices by location,age of children, type of camp and week ofsummer or check out the 2015 SummerCamp Guide.

For more information about Rec-PAC orcamps, call 703-222-4664 Monday throughFriday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Art League’sSummer Art Camps

The Art League’s Summer Art Camp pro-vides children ages 5-15 a wonderful intro-duction to visual art. In the regular art camp,each day brings a new project that may in-clude drawing, painting, printmaking, orsculpture. Projects vary from week to week,so campers can always come back for more.The specialty camps, like Drawing Camp orPainting Camp, focus on immersion in oneparticular medium.

“Inspiring young artists and helping themdiscover the joy of innovation is a big partof our mission. It’s as rewarding for us tosee what the campers create as it is forthem,” said Executive Director SuzanneBethel.

The Art League’s Summer Art Camps are

held weekly. Half-day and full-day campsinclude regular art camp, painting, photog-raphy, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, fiber,drawing, cartoons, and more. Camps runweekly from June 22 through Aug. 21, 2015at The Art League’s Madison Annex, 305Madison Street in Alexandria. Register andfind details online at www.theartleague.org.Contact The Art League [email protected] or 703-683-2323.

SummerTimesSt. Stephen’s & St. Agnes SummerTimes

programs offers campers ages 3-18 an en-joyable and enriching experience with pro-grams designed to stimulate curiosity andcreativity, develop talents, and encourageexploration and personal growth. Most ofthe camp directors are SSSAS teachers andcoaches, supported by alumni and students.Operating on three campuses with state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Alexandria,the camp strives to inspire campers all sum-mer long.

“At SummerTimes, your child will have theopportunity to see new sights in Washing-ton, D.C., to expand artistic horizons in anart or filmmaking camp, learn about com-puter programming or jewelry making, chal-lenge their abilities in one of our many sportscamps, try their hand in TechPlay, or par-ticipate in a variety of fun activities in ourtraditional Day Camp. We pride ourselveson offering camps that will spark an inter-est in your camper, and will encourage themto create and try new things on their own ina safe and nurturing place,” said Jim Supple,Director of Summer Programs.

St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes summer pro-grams run from June 15-Aug. 14, offeringnine weeks with a variety of camps. Withmore than 145 different camp sessions tochoose from, there is something for camp-ers of every age. Visit www.summertimes.orgto view camp offerings, pricing, registrationprocedures and more. [email protected] or call 703-212-2777.

Photo courtesy of Glenn Cook

Students enjoy summer camps at Metropolitan School of the Arts inLorton and Alexandria; musical theatre camps are just one of the manycamps offered.


Diverse Camps Offer Summer FunFrom Page 5

Photo contributed by Peter Hamer

Bishop Ireton Cardinals summercamps in Alexandria are gearing upfor their eighth year of sports andtheater camps.

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ● April 2015 ● Summer Camps ● Education & Activities ● 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

By Rick Jeffrey

President, Special Olympics Virginia

In my 20-plus years in Special OlympicsI still, on occasion, make the same mis-take. I miss the boat. I underestimate

the abilities either cognitive or physical ofour Special Olympics athletes; athletes withintellectual disabilities. But by continuallymaking this mistake, I, in essence, prettymuch make them like everyone else; justanother person, available to be judged andlimited by what we see or what we thinkwe see. You see, the limitations that all ofus place on each other determine how weperceive each other, treat each other, likeeach other, fear each other, raise each otherup or marginalize each other.

Ask most coaches out there and they willtell you that the biggest limitations on anystudent athlete are the ones coaches placeupon them, among which might be too slow,not big enough or not tough enough. Itmight not be much different in the class-room where teachers might see a studentas too lazy, too distracted or not interested.And these are just student athletes in anysport, in any classroom, at any high schoolin Virginia.

Now compound that with Down syn-drome, autism or an undiagnosed disabil-ity resulting in a student’s inability to keepup with peers. In most cases, the limitationsin a school environment, an environmentthat moves all too fast, are enormous. Andeven in schools with wonderful inclusiveclassroom environments, the opportunity to

interact and really build friendships andrelationships remains limited.

These students with intellectual disabili-ties are, in most cases, not receiving an op-portunity to really participate in sports; anactivity that, at its heart, teaches teamwork,trust and communication; an activity thatat its core promotes competency, credibil-ity and caring; the building blocks of hu-man relationships. Sports and sports teamsare probably more conducive to buildingrelationships and creating friendships thanpossibly any other school activity. Plusthrow in the opportunity to “wear the col-ors” and represent your school and you cre-ate an emotional bond that may be the mostinclusive opportunity for any student.

IMAGINE A PARTNERSHIP betweenSpecial Olympics and high schools through-out Virginia. Imagine the opportunity for astudent with an intellectual (or any) dis-

ability to play alongside his or her peerswithout disabilities in a Unified Sports teamenvironment; to rely on each other, to com-municate with each other, to believe in eachother, to become Champions Together.

Imagine no more because ChampionsTogether is here. In fact, it’s right here inFairfax at Robinson Secondary School andRobert E. Lee High School – and in 22 otherhigh schools in Virginia.

This partnership with the Virginia HighSchool League is aimed at bringing togetheryouth with and without disabilities to buildthe first unified generation, a generationwhere youth will build upon the friendshipsand life lessons learned through sports andthe Special Olympics movement so, later inlife, they will not be afraid to live, work andTHRIVE alongside their peers with differ-ent ability levels.

Champions Together high schools willform inclusive track and field teams thisspring that will compete against other lo-cal high schools. Other components of theprogram include an inclusive student-ledleadership team that will organize anawareness event to promote respect andinclusion, and promote philanthropy to sup-port the future of the program.

AT SPECIAL OLYMPICS, we dedicateourselves each day to building communi-ties more respectful in their conduct, moreinclusive in their makeup, more unified intheir fabric. And each day the Virginia HighSchool League is promoting education, lead-ership, sportsmanship, character and citi-zenship for students by establishing andmaintaining high standards for school ac-tivities and competitions.

A new, young, energetic base of athletesand volunteers, which could include thesons or daughters of many reading this op-ed piece, will eventually transition from theschools into our communities and help Spe-cial Olympics Virginia and the Virginia HighSchool League continue to achieve our mis-sions.

The Champions Together program is new,and as it develops, we will learn a lot abouthow to build it, refine it and make it thebest that it can be for everyone. And do youknow who we will learn this from? We willlearn it from our young people with andwithout disabilities who, through their par-ticipation and their ownership of this in-clusive program, will prove to us that theyare the future.

Let’s Play Unified!

Rick Jeffrey has been the President of SpecialOlympics Virginia since 2000. He has served onmany national and international committees forSpecial Olympics, and is currently serving on theUnited States Leadership Council where he is chairof the Sports Committee.

Play Unified

Photo contributed

Rick Jeffrey

Commentary


By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

Summer fun is no longer reservedfor children. Whether one’s inter-ests lie in exploring nature and hik-ing in the woods or immersed in

history, art and literature on a universitycampus, the region abounds with warmweather opportunities.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute(OLLI) at George Mason University offersits members a chance to satisfy their intel-lectual and cultural curiosities. Want to readand discuss the “Iliad” or play SymphonyNo. 5 on the piano? Classes in Homer’s writ-ings or classical music are available inFairfax, Reston and Sterling, Va. $375 givesmembers access to more than 400 trips,courses and clubs ranging from memoirwriting to French cooking.

“This summer you can get outside withOLLI trips to the National Gallery of Art,the Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens,

and The Franciscan Monastery,” said Jen-nifer Disano, OLLI executive director.

From oil painting to soap making, Arling-ton County is offering a diverse smatter ofclasses for adults. “We have a smorgasbordof programs and really cool classes whereyou can learn about nature or go on hikes,”said Susan Kalish, a spokeswoman for thecounty.

Potomac residents who want to distin-guish an amethyst from an iolite are in luckthis summer. A gemology class is among themost popular adult classes at the PotomacCommunity Recreation Center.

“We’ve got a host of different programsfrom tai chi, yoga and karate,” said PeterSelikowitz, the center’s executive director.“There’s even a laughter fitness class whichis a fun way to reduce stress.”

For those wanting to learn how to avoidinternet scams, Marymount University hasteamed up with City of Falls Church topresent “Living Better with the Internet.”The series of five classes is designed for se-niors and will be held at the Falls ChurchCommunity Center this summer. “The bestnews of all is that the classes are free,” saidOdette Shults, a spokeswoman for the Uni-versity.

Educators say that an uptick in interestamong adults, particularly seniors, has lead

The region offers awide range ofprograms for adults.

Summer Fun for Adults

Photo contributed

Summer camp experiences can help children become self-confident andself-reliant.

to a diverse offering of learning opportuni-ties. “There is an absolute trend and evi-dence-based research is driving the trend,”said Andrew Carle of George Mason Uni-versity. “Adult activities are being rein-vented. What used to be arts and crafts and

now their being called wellness and enrich-ment and address the physical, cognitive,social and spiritual needs of adults. We’reseeing people being given more choices onhow to improve their lives rather than justgiving them activities.”


Though I live nowhere near her area, I found iteasy to be influenced by her writing and to wishthat I had the opportunity to attend some of theevents she talked about. All three examples arenicely written.

Jean Card, Jeanne Theismann,Steve Hibbard, Louise Krafft andKara Coleman, Alexandria Gazette Packet –Lifestyle or Entertainment Pages. Judge’s com-ments: Good balance. Front page article hasgood detail and info.

Second Place WinnersJoan Brady, Great Falls Connection –

Column Writing.Veronica Bruno, Mount Vernon Gazette –

Feature Story Writing.Jean Card, Alexandria Gazette Packet –

Page Design.Vernon Miles, Arlington Connection –

Breaking News Writing.Jeanne Theismann, Alexandria Gazette Packet

– Headline Writing.

Third Place WinnersSteven G. Artley, Alexandria Gazette Packet –

Editorial Cartoon.Marilyn Campbell, Chantilly Connection –

Health, Science and Environmental Writing.Bonnie Hobbs, Fairfax Connection – Personal

Service Writing.Mary Kimm, McLean Connection – Editorial

Writing.Michael Lee Pope, Alexandria Gazette Packet –

Public Safety Writing.Steven Mauren, Mary Kimm, Steve Artley,

Geovani Flores and Laurence Foong, AlexandriaGazette Packet – Editorial Pages.

Jean Card, Renee Ruggles andLaurence Foong, Mount Vernon Gazette –Informational Graphics.

The Potomac Almanac participates in theMaryland-Delaware-DC Press Association, andwhile 2014 award-winners there will not be fullyannounced until May 1, 2015, we do know thatKen Moore and Marilyn Campbell are winners.

www.connectionnewspapers.com

First Place WinnersSteven G. Artley, Alexandria Gazette Packet –

Editorial Cartoon. Judge’s comments: Smart andinsightful.

Bonnie Hobbs, Centre View – Feature Series orContinuing Story. Judge’s comments: Clear andconcise writing with a good flow. Journalist cap-tured the emotion of the event and engaged thereader well.

Michael Lee Pope, Mount Vernon Gazette –Business and Financial Writing. Judge’s comments:First-rate, data-driven reporting and analysis onimportant issues. Fine work.

Michael Lee Pope, McLean Connection –Health, Science and Environmental Writing.Judge’s comments: Michael Lee Pope’s stories ondriving habits, cesarean deliveries and theAffordable Care Act are well-researched, clearlywritten and engaging. His use of real-live peoplehigh up in his stories to illustrate his findingsmakes for very compelling material. He seemsquite capable of turning some of these topics intoa book. If he does, I’ll read it.

Jon Roetman, Vienna/Oakton Connection –Sports Writing Portfolio. Judge’s comments: Strongand clear writing and excellent storytelling helpsgame stories feel more like features. Excellentwork.

Victoria Ross, Oak Hill/Herndon Connection –Government Writing. Judge’s comments: Anengaging look at a lobbyist who fights for the littleguy; an entertaining story on a political candidate,helping readers put the upcoming election intocontext; one of the better budgeting stories I’veseen lately that helps readers understand how thecounty’s budgeting process is going to cost themmore money. The supporting sidebars help bringthe message home.

Jeanne Theismann, Alexandria Gazette Packet –Personal Service Writing, Obituaries. Judge’s com-ments: These stories provide a glimpse inside thelives of people who have played significant rolesin their communities. The writing is engaging andwell-researched. And the stories serve as an exam-ple to others of how to live a life of purpose.

Jeanne Theismann, Alexandria Gazette Packet –Column Writing, Entertainment. Judge’s com-ments: Ms. Theismann’s entertainment columnsdemonstrate a breadth of knowledge that givesher opinions a ring of authority and authenticity.

LaurenceFoong

GeovaniFlores

Jean Card

MichaelLee Pope

JeanneTheismann

StevenMauren

LouiseKrafft

Steve Artley

ReneeRuggles

Victoria Ross

MarilynCampbell

Award-Winning Connection NewspapersMore Reasons the Connection Newspapers are the Best-Read Community Papers

Winners of Awards in the 2014 Virginia Press Associationand Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association Editorial Contests

Ken Moore

Mary Kimm

Joan Brady VernonMiles

BonnieHobbs

Jon Roetman

SteveHibbard

VeronicaBruno

Steve Artley/G

azette Packet

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