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Classifieds, Page 18 Classifieds, ❖ In Great Falls News, Page 10

Sports, Page 16

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Entertainment, Page 12

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Opinion, Page 6

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.comMarch 9-15, 2016 online atGreat www.connectionnewspapers.com Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 1 Children’s Spring Festival Volunteer Egg Stuffing Wednesday - March 16, 2016 • 5:30-9:00 pm • Great Falls Grange • Refreshments Provided Great Falls Village Centre

2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected] Four-Cent Tax Increase, With Side of Vitriol Reconsideration hours later gives same result; flexibility,” McKay said. “They’ve boxed in the Board of Supervisors and tied our hands. board will consider putting meals tax to referendum in November. It’s now nearly impossible to meet the superintendent’s request. I strongly believe By Ken Moore that would have been possible at 5 cents The Connection and that is why I put forward this respon- sible rate.” uesday morning, the Fairfax Springfield Supervisor Pat Herrity spoke County Board of Supervisors against raising the tax rate. “Our residents T voted for a four-cent tax rate are having to make difficult decisions increase, advertising a tax rate around their kitchen tables as job and wage of $1.13 per $100 of assessed value. Hours growth stagnates. We need to get our later, a call to reconsider a higher rate economy going and the commercial tax base sparked bitterness, anger and even disgust. back. ... Until then, we have to make the In the end, the outcome was the same. same tough choices that our residents are The board rejected Budget Chair Jeff having to make and until we do I cannot McKay’s motion for a five-cent increase on ask them to absorb a six-percent increase a 5-5 vote and Mount Vernon Supervisor this year.” Daniel Storck’s motion to have a six-cent increase by a 3-7 vote. But hours later Tuesday afternoon, March “The Board of 1 after afternoon public hearings were fi- nalized, Supervisor John Foust’s motions to Supervisors’ decision reconsider its advertised tax rate raised today to set the jointly by Sully Supervisor Kathy Smith — Budget Town Meetings a tool permitted by Roberts Rules of Order advertised (maximum) — set off fireworks. ❖ Providence District Budget Council Budget Town Hall Meeting “I’m sorry, it’s appalling, it’s embarrass- Wednesday, March 9, 7 p.m., Providence Community Center - 3001 Vaden tax rate at four cents is ing,” said Providence Supervisor Linda Drive, Fairfax - Multi-Purpose Room 2 Smyth. “We’re starting a budget session on ❖ Mason District Budget Meeting disappointing because it the worst foot. We had a full discussion this Wednesday, March 16, 7 p.m., Mason District Government Center, 6507 Colum- guarantees that the morning.” bia Pike, Annandale - Main Community Room “A robust discussion,” said Hunter Mill ❖ Springfield District Budget Meeting county and schools Supervisor Cathy Hudgins. Wednesday, March 23, 7 p.m., West Springfield Government Center - 6140 Hudgins said she had come to the meet- Rolling Road, Springfield - Community Room budgets cannot both be ing planning to advocate for a five-cent in- ❖ Dranesville District Budget Meeting / McLean Citizens Association crease, but said she was “disturbed” by the (MCA) fully funded, denying the reconsideration. “This is childish play, that Wednesday, March 23, 7:30 p.m., McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside once you didn’t get your way, you’re going Avenue, McLean community its rightful to bring it back.” ❖ Braddock District Budget Meeting Speaking of the School Board, she added, Monday, March 28, 7:30 p.m., Robinson Secondary School - “Recital Hall” - role in that “You can’t always have it your way.” 5035 Sideburn Road, Fairfax conversation.” Mason Supervisor Penny Gross: “I don’t ❖ Lee District Association of Civic Organizations Community Budget think we should be supporting voter’s re- Meeting — School Board Chairman Pat Hynes morse.” Wednesday, March 30, 7 p.m., Lee District Governmental Center - 6121 “The ends do not justify the means,” said Franconia Road, Alexandria Braddock Supervisor John Cook, who had ❖ Dranesville District / Great Falls Citizen’s Association Budget The board also asked for more informa- reluctantly supported the four-cent in- Meeting tion regarding putting a meals tax on the crease. “I don’t want anybody thinking there Thursday, March 31, 7 p.m., The Great Falls Grange, 9818 Georgetown Pike, ballot in November. The board’s legislative was a mistake.” Great Falls agenda has supported diversifying the tax Foust kept composed. If there’s not base, taking some tax burden off enough support, he said, “we’ll find out. We homeowners, according to a statement by have this process available to us.” the county. Under state law, if the board Lee Supervisor McKay said, “I support wishes to adopt a meals tax, the voters must this, to get back to the original, responsible and other school advocates have been lean- School Board Chairman Pat Hynes. decide in the form of a referendum. The motion that I made,” for a 5-cent increase. ing heavily on the Board of Supervisors to Cook directed a rebuke at the School restaurant industry and chambers of com- Chairman Sharon Bulova kept order, and advertise a higher tax increase to “fully Board. “If we don’t do it exactly the way merce have strongly opposed a meals tax. supported the motion to reconsider. fund” the school budget. The discourse has you want, [you say] ‘you are bad people.’ The County Executive’s Advertised Bud- “There’s a process that allows for this,” not always been collegial. We’re not. I have children in the school sys- get, which calls for a four-cent increase, said Bulova. “So I am respectful that a mem- “The Board of Supervisors’ decision today tem too.” transfers more than $2 billion to FCPS and ber asked for it to be reconsidered.” to set the advertised (maximum) tax rate at provides over 52 percent of County Gen- The motion to reconsider failed with a 5- four cents is disappointing because it guar- THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS can eral Fund revenues to the schools, accord- to-5 tie vote. antees that the county and schools budgets adopt a tax rate that is lower, but not higher, ing to county documents. cannot both be fully funded, denying the than what was advertised at its board meet- There are a number of opportunities for THE BUDGET BUILT and presented by community its rightful role in that conver- ing Tuesday, March 1. residents to share comments and concerns County Executive Ed Long calls for a four- sation. Today’s decision is discouraging for Each penny on the real estate tax rate regarding the county budget between now cent tax rate increase, about $300 for the the thousands of community members who provides $23 million in revenue. and April 19. In addition to budget town average household in Fairfax County, but have reached out to the School Board and The motion to advertise a four-cent in- meetings and forums throughout the also left Fairfax County Public Schools with the Board of Supervisors this year to advo- crease passed 7-to-3. county, three days of budget public hear- a shortfall of $68 million. cate for a voice in this very important con- “I’m disappointed that the same people ings will be held at the Fairfax County Gov- The Fairfax County School Board, parents versation about values and priorities,” said who advocated for flexibility voted against ernment Center on April 5-7. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 3 News Fashion Show to Support Scholarships for Women Great Falls Friends and Neighbors continues to support women’s education.

he Great Falls Friends and Neighbors Scholarship Fund (GFFNSF) is raising Tmoney to provide scholarships to women, continuing its long-standing tradition of giving back to the community. Great Falls Friends and Neighbors (GFFN) was formed in 2011 as a re- sult of a merger between the Great Falls Woman’s Club and the Newcomers of Great Falls, two organi- zations that had been active in the area for more than 30 years. GFFN has more than 200 involved members and provides opportunities for the residents of Great Falls and surrounding communities to connect through a Photos contributed variety of social, educational and cultural activities. The Board of the GFFNSF discussed the It also provides service, support, and donations to details of the fashion show they are host- philanthropic causes and civic organizations. The ing at Bloomingdale’s Tysons Corner on GFFNSF is one of the club’s major philanthropies. It April 24. From left: Allison Granstedt, is a separately incorporated 501(c)(3) organization. Kristen Trimble, Sally Andrew-Pyne, Laura Each year the GFFNSF awards up to six scholar- Bumpus, Annette Kerlin and Ricki Harvey ships to deserving Virginia women over the age of (center – back to camera). 25 who are attending either George Mason Univer- sity or Northern Virginia Community College. One scholarship is presented to a dance student at George Mason University in the name of a club founder, Bette Carter. According to Annette Kerlin, a GFFNSF board member, “Many of these scholarship recipients have jobs, children or both, and would not be able to con- tinue their education without this help. The benefi- ciaries are very impressive individuals and we are thrilled to be able to help them in this manner.” For more information on the recipients, see GFFNSF.org. The GFFNSF has been providing this kind of fi- nancial assistance to female college students for the last 34 years. To facilitate its efforts, the GFFNSF Lea Lines, a 2015 has established two endowments, one at George Ma- Martina Atabong, a GFFN scholarship son University and one at Northern Virginia Com- 2015 GFFN scholar- recipient and GMU munity College, which are maintained through do- ship recipient nursing student nations and fundraising activities. On Sunday, April studying nursing at who resumed her 24 from 10 a.m. to 12, the GFFNSF will be hosting GMU where she is studies after staying its “2016 Spring Fashion Show” at Bloomingdale’s on the Dean’s List. at home more than Tysons Corner in McLean to a decade with her raise scholarship money. This children. event will feature a cham- pagne brunch, raffle, silent auction, shopping event and Members of GFFN fashion show. rally around public- Sally Andrew-Pyne, of the ity for the Scholar- GFFNSF board, said, ship Fund’s Fashion “Bloomingdale’s is pulling out Show scheduled for all the stops with a fabulous April 24 at lineup of this season’s styles. Bloomingdale’s They also are generously do- Tysons Corner. From nating 10 percent of the at- left: Annette Kerlin, tendees’ purchases to Karen Deardorff, GFFNSF. Add a yummy Julie Casso, Claire brunch and a number of ex- Jones, Tracie citing silent auction and raffle Hildson, Keula gifts and you have a Sunday Binelly-Fletcher, morning packed with fun – Sally Andrew-Pyne. and all for a terrific cause.” The GFFNSF is accepting contributions from indi- sponsors. Monetary donations are also appreciated. viduals, organizations and companies who would like To become a sponsor, donate money or purchase tick- to support this cause by becoming one of the event ets for the fashion show, visit GFFNSF.org for details.

4 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News GFHoops Wraps Up the Season, Donates to Haiti Children

By Malia Simon Kishore

reat Falls Basketball wrapped up their season this past weekend with a double Gelimination tournament, All-Star games, scholarship awards and by giving the gift of health to Haitian school children. The tournament games were well fought, well- coached contests, and the All Star games were fun and competitive. The season’s end was highlighted by the awarding of the Matthew Poyner Youth Lead- ership Award, an award instituted by GFHoops in 2015, to honor the memory of Matt Poyner, a mem- ber of our community and beloved son, brother, friend, and student-athlete. Four outstanding seniors were acknowledged for their leadership within the GFHoops community. Mackenzie Regen, Jonathan Canfield, Chris Miner and Dante Vasiliadis were each awarded a plaque and $1000 towards defraying their Photo contributed college costs. Wood and Emmy Parker of Community This season GFHoops players turned out in full Coalition for Haiti receiving the check from force to support health initiatives in Haiti in the sec- GFHoops Commissioner Michelle Claude. ond annual Shots for Shots contest. Each players donated $5 to participate in a basketball shooting lition for Haiti has been able to institute a mobile contest. Team winners received a T-shirt, age group healthcare clinic to bring healthcare to students in winners received an Amazon gift card, and the team and around Jacmel, Haiti. GFHoops players and fami- that scored the most points overall won a pizza party. lies donated $4350.00 this year. In a country where However, the big winners are the students in Haiti. a family of four live on less than $2 per day, the im- Through GFHoops’ fundraising the Community Coa- pact of this donation will go a very long way.

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An independent, locally owned weekly Bringing Back the Electric Chair newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Paul Krizek, Mark Levine, Alfonso Lopez, Bob Published by Local Media Connection LLC In a word: Barbaric. Marshall, Ken Plum, Mark Sickles, Marcus Making Good Choices Simon and Rip Sullivan. Kathleen Murphy 1606 King Street o doubt Virginia and Texas will didn’t vote but registered that she intended to On Saint Patrick’s Day Alexandria, Virginia 22314 be the last two states to continue vote no.) Washington Regional Alcohol Program Free digital edition delivered to with the death penalty until, in- The Virginia Senate voted for the electric (WRAP), will offer the 2016 St. Patty’s Day your email box. Go to N connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe evitably, evolving standards of chair 22-17. From our area, only Dick Saslaw SoberRide program, providing free cab rides decency lead the U.S. Supreme Court to de- voted in favor of the electric chair. Voting no to would-be drunk drivers throughout the NEWS DEPARTMENT: clare that the death penalty is unconstitutional. were George Barker, Adam Ebbin, Barbara Washington-metropolitan area next Thursday, [email protected] But fear of loss has motivated the Vir- Favola, Janet Howell, Dave Marden, March 17. ginia General Assembly to amend a law Chap Petersen, Scott Surovell and Jen- SoberRide will be available for 12 hours Kemal Kurspahic Editorial Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 that allows prisoners facing execution nifer Wexton. starting 4 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day and con- [email protected] to choose between lethal injection and Residents of the 35th Senate District tinuing until 4 a.m. on Friday, March 18 as a Abigail Constantino the electric chair so that the electric chair is could rightfully question whether they are get- way to help keep local roads safe from impaired Editorial Assistant used if drugs for lethal injection are not avail- ting the representation they expect from Sena- drivers during this traditionally high-risk holi- 703-778-9410 ext.427 able. tor Saslaw (D), who without doubt will con- day. [email protected] It’s barbaric, and execution debacles with tinue to be reelected until he chooses to re- Make your own plans to celebrate safely by Ken Moore electrocution and unproven drugs for lethal tire. having a designated driver, celebrating where Community Reporter 240-393-2448 injection could speed overall rejection of the Saslaw voted for mandatory use of the elec- you can take public transportation or spend [email protected] death penalty. tric chair if lethal injection drugs are not avail- the night. But if those plans go awry, area resi- Jon Roetman Most representatives from our area voted able, worked to kill legislation that would pro- dents celebrating with alcohol may call the toll- Sports Editor ❖ 703-752-4013 against, but in the House of Delegates, which tect consumers from predatory lending and in- free SoberRide phone number 1–800–200– [email protected] voted 62-33 for the electric chair, Dave Albo, terest rates of more than 200 percent, and was TAXI (8294) for a no-cost (up to a $30 fare), @jonroetman Jim LeMunyon and Vivian Watts voted in fa- chief patron of the notorious proffer bill, which, safe way home. For more information, visit vor; Tim Hugo didn’t vote but registered that if signed by Gov. Terry McAuliffe as passed, www.soberride.com. ADVERTISING: For advertising information he intended to vote yes. (Voting no were Jen- will result in localities losing the ability to tem- [email protected] nifer Boysko, David Bulova, Eileen Filler-Corn, per costs of development and likely property — Mary Kimm 703-778-9431 Charniele Herring, Patrick Hope, Mark Keam, tax increases. [email protected] Salome Howard-Gaibler Display Advertising Letters to the Editor 703-778-9421 [email protected]

Andrea Smith Protecting Arts Programs in Schools Questioning (Some) Rules Classified Advertising 703-778-9411 To the Editor: early age. Without the availability To the Editor: in the child’s best interest. The [email protected] After reading the article, “Fairfax of the classes or the teachers, I have two children in the Fairfax statist notion thatgovernmental Debbie Funk County: Parents, Community many young children may have County School System. The prin- power should supersede parental National Sales Supporters Rally to ‘Invest in never discovered their hidden tal- cipal is mandating a doctor’s note authority in all casesbecause some 703-778-9444 [email protected] Kids’ by Tim Peterson (Connection, ents or interests in the field. after a set number of absences. parents abuse and neglect children February 18-24), spending on I strongly believe spending Excused or unexcused. This news is repugnant to American tradi- David Griffin Marketing Assistant public education is clearly becom- should not cut out the arts from was delivered in a form letter gen- tion. (Parham v. J.R.) 703-778-9431 ing a huge concern. Being a former public education, and students erated by attendance numbers. We need to foster a mutual re- [email protected] student of Fairfax County, I re- should continue to receive the Nothing else. spect between the students, teach- member how important programs same opportunities we did when In FCPS policy 2232.3, it states, ers, andthe administration. Don’t Editor & Publisher related to the arts were to many we were in elementary school. “The principal or his designee de- waste your teacher’s time, don’t Mary Kimm [email protected] students. Many students gained an Roxana Jahanbani termine whether or not absences make extra work for your teacher, @MaryKimm interest in music beginning at an Great Falls will be excused and may require a and don’t be late to class—it’s physician’s note in cases of chronic rude. In return, the administration Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon or long-term illness.” should respect the students and [email protected] Lifting Stigma from Drug Users The principal may request a their parents. Editor in Chief To the Editor: decided to treat the wound itself doctor’s note every time a child Rules are important and they Steven Mauren I believe that your in-depth look in order to prevent it from happen- misses class, it’s his choice, but it usually make common sense, but Managing Editor is not reasonable. when theydon’t, they should be Kemal Kurspahic at Northern Virginia’s heroin sub- ing later on. It was very thought- Photography: culture (“Police Arrest 20 for ful and sensitive of them to real- The administration should ap- questioned. Deb Cobb, Craig Sterbutzel proach the situation with the as- Lisa Helmer Art/Design: Heroin Use in One Day,” Connec- ize that this wasn’t just a private Laurence Foong, John Heinly tion, March 2-8, 2016) ) was a step trouble in the lives of the addicts, sumption that parents have their Annandale Production Manager: in the right direction towards help- but instead a public issue in their children’s best interest at heart Geovani Flores and know their children best. The ing to lift the stigma from drug community that needed to be rec- Write Special Assistant to the Publisher users. You chose to expand upon tified. administration can’t possibly know The Connection welcomes views Jeanne Theismann what is best for each of their 2400 [email protected] the stories of the 20 people re- Helping the victims out of their on any public issue. @TheismannMedia cently apprehended for the posses- addictions instead of just incarcer- students, especially if there has The deadline for all material is been no dialogue with the family. noon Friday. Letters must be sion and/or distribution of heroin ating them may have also helped signed. Include home address CIRCULATION: 703-778-9426 instead of simply focusing on the in reducing the number of deaths The Supreme Court has even and home and business [email protected] crime itself. attributed to heroin and the health addressed the importance of pa- numbers. Letters are routinely I applaud how the fine men and consequences that result from its rental discretion even when some edited for libel, grammar, good parents do not act responsibly: taste and factual errors. women of the police departments use as well. All in all this was a Send to: of Loudoun, Fairfax, and Prince very well written paper and your That some parents “may at times William counties chose to opt for dedication to providing the whole be acting against the interests of Letters to the Editor rehabilitating those arrested in- truth about the situation is refresh- their children” . . . creates a basis The Connection for caution, but it is hardly a rea- 1606 King St. stead of simply detaining them ing and welcomed. Alexandria VA 22314 and risking that they return to son to discardwholesale those Call: 703-917-6444. drugs. Instead of placing a “ban- Preston Taylor pages of human experience that By e-mail: [email protected] dage” on the chronic issue, they Springfield teach that parents generally do act

6 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 7 News Commission Recognizes Outstanding Women in Fairfax County Government Photos by Tim Peterson/The Connection By Tim Peterson ”I’ve benefited from The Connection years of wonderful dwyna Wingo of the Chantilly area began her career with Fairfax leadership of women ECounty as a nurse in the Health in Fairfax County.” Department on Sep. 1, 1965 and worked her last full day Oct. 1, 2011. —Board of Supervisors Wingo graduated from the University of Chairman Sharon Bulova Virginia nursing school in 1964 and decided she didn’t much care for rotating and night shifts. Looking for a more regular sched- ule, she found work in “Home Health,” pro- Laura Sizemore, a junior at Lake viding health services for individuals out- Braddock Secondary School and in her sec- side the hospital. ond year as the student representative to “The bug of public health really stuck,” the Fairfax County Commission for Women, she said. “And I was on the cutting edge of was in the audience for the recognition cer- public health back then. Home visits, com- emony. munity clinics, I did it all. And I never gave “I bring the perspective of teenagers to up on my love of patient care.” the commission,” Sizemore said, “I know Wingo now works as part-time on special the school side of issues like dress code and projects for the Fairfax County Health De- Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova addresses the Fairfax sexual harassment.” partment, including a car seat program for County Commission for Women recognition program. families whose income is low enough to make them eligible. She started with the project four years ago and said to date thousands of car seats have been given out. Wingo is the longest-tenured of 12 women honored by the Fairfax County Commission for Women on March 1, Super Tuesday, at the Government Center prior to the Board of Lake Braddock Pat Harrison is Donna Bird a Pat Burton is a Beth Imming is a Linda O’Brien is Supervisors regular meeting. Secondary School Deputy County business analyst management public health an administrative “I was absolutely floored junior Laura Executive for for Special analyst II with nurse II with the assistant III with when I got the email,” Wingo Sizemore is the Human Services Projects with the Department of Department of the Reston Dis- said. “Fairfax County has been student represen- and spoke on Department of Cable and Con- Public Health, trict Station of very dear to me. I’ve had op- tative to the behalf of the Public Safety sumer Services. Annandale office. the Fairfax portunities in Fairfax County Fairfax County Commission for Communications. County Police with the Health Department.” Commission for Women during Department. Board of Supervisors Chair- Women. the proclamation man Sharon Bulova spoke to ceremony with the group before moving into the Board of the Board’s auditorium to be- Supervisors gin the regular business meet- recognizing ing. March as The Chairman opened with Women’s History her response when people ask Month. her what the obstacles were to her achieving her success in public elected office. Deanna Velasco is Edwyna Wingo “I’ve benefitted from years of Nancy Stallings is an administrative works as a public wonderful leadership of an investigator assistant IV in the health Nurse II Susan Woodruff women in Fairfax County,” Mary Rezzarday- for the Depart- Department of with the Depart- retired Jan. 21, Bulova said, referencing the White is currently ments of Planning Family Services, ment of Public 2016, as Director late Jean Packard, the first library assistant and Zoning, and Self Sufficiency Health. of the Depart- woman to serve as Chairman of II for youth Code Compliance. Division, Fraud ment of Human the Board of Supervisors, services in the and Investigation Resources. Audrey Moore and Kate Hanley. Fairfax City Re- Unit. “They’ve paved the way for gional Library. To see the 12 women honored for their me,” Bulova continued. Then Doris Robey is a ment, represented a collective 433 years of vast careers with Fairfax County, Sizemore transitioning and acknowledging the 12 manager in the service. said it inspires her to work hard and do what women being recognized by the Commis- Department of The 12th, Deputy County Executive for she wants with her life, “not what people sion, she thanked them each for “your Tax Administra- Human Services Pat Harrison, was sched- want me to do,” she said. knowledge, and the way you served Fairfax tion, Personal uled to speak on behalf of the Commission The junior said computer science is a big County.” Property and for Women during a proclamation ceremony passion and she plans to pursue a career in Eleven women, each having spent 40 Business License with the Board of Supervisors recognizing science, technology, engineering and math- years or more with Fairfax County govern- division. March as Women’s History Month. ematics, or government.

8 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SoberRide Offered on St. Patrick’s Day Preparing to combat that time of year when, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety OPEN HOUSE Administration (NHTSA), nearly half of all U.S. traffic deaths are January 22, 2016 9:30-11:00am caused by drunk drivers, free cab rides will be offered to would-be drunk drivers throughout the Washington- metropolitan area next Thursday, March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day). Offered by the nonprofit Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP), the 2016 St. Patty’s Day SoberRide program will be in operation beginning at 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day) and continue until 4 a.m. on Friday, March 18 as a way to keep local roads safe from impaired drivers during this traditionally high-risk holiday. During this 12-hour period, area residents celebrating with alcohol may call the toll-free • Mommy & Me SoberRide phone number 1– • Preschool Ages 2 & Up 800–200–TAXI(8294) and be afforded a no-cost (up to a $ 30 • Montessori Preschool fare), safe way home. AT&T wireless customers can dial • Private Kindergarten #WRAP for the same service. • Childcare Local taxicab companies throughout the Washington- • School Age Childcare K-6 metropolitan area provide this no-cost service to local residents 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, Virginia age 21 and older who otherwise may have attempted to drive www.vgdsva.com home after drinking. “During the evening hours 703-759-4049 immediately following the 2014 St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, nearly half of all U.S. traffic fatalities involved drunk drivers,” said Kurt Gregory Erickson, WRAP’s President. SoberRide® is offered in the District of Columbia; through- Image-Guided Surgery in downtown McLean. out the Maryland counties of Montgomery and Prince George’s; and throughout the State-of-the-Art Treatment of Varicose Veins Northern Virginia counties of Arlington, Fairfax, (eastern) using the latest technology. Loudoun and Prince William. Last St. Patrick’s Day (2015) Dr. Gaugau is a Vascular thousands of minimally invasive SoberRide program provided nearly 200 (190) free cab rides Specialist who performs minimally procedures, including complex home to would-be drunk drivers in the Washington-metropolitan invasive surgical procedures. He Endovascular. area. Since 1993, WRAP’s treats a variety of medical As a long-time resident of SoberRide program has provided 64,641 free cab rides conditions using state-of-the-art McLean, he is bringing his home to would-be drunk drivers image-guided surgical technology. expertise to the area. Dr. Gaugau in the Greater Washington area. For more information, visit Dr. Gaugau has extensive trained at Georgetown University www.soberride.com. experience and served for years as Medical Center and the a Department Chair at Medstar Washington Hospital Center. Southern Maryland Hospital Call today to schedule your free Robert Beatson II Center. He has performed consultation: 703-891-3147 Attorney/Accountant, Former IRS Attorney Admitted to DC, MD, VA & NY Bars All Types of Federal, State, Local & Foreign Taxes Individual • Business Trusts • Estates • Wills Amended & Late Returns Back Taxes • IRS Audits • Civil Litigation Business Law • Contracts Nordine Gaugau, MD 703-798-3590 or 6723 Whittier Ave., Suite 306, Mclean, VA 22101 301-340-2951 703-891-3147 • mcleanveins.com www.beatsonlaw.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 9 News Week in Great Falls Spring Clean-Up at Colonial Farm The Claude Moore Colonial Farm, 6310 Georgetown Pike, Irish Countryside in Great Falls McLean will hold a Spring Clean-Up on Saturday and Sunday, March 19-20, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Play a role in getting the farm ready for the 2016 season and Opening Day April 1. On this 18th- The Old Brogue celebrates 35th anniversary on St. Patrick’s Day century working farm, trails and fields need to be cleared, fences rebuilt and wood split, moved and stacked. There is also work in with painting of Irish countryside by Great Falls artist. St. Patrick’s Day at the greenhouse, cleaning animal pens and other spruce up activi- ties. Complimentary picnic hot dog lunch will be available. Great By Lisa Colburn Stewart The Old Brogue activity for groups and families. Bring work gloves and dress for The Old Brogue’s 35th anniversary the weather. celebration will take place on St. Patrick’s ike Kearney opened The Old Day, March 17. The Snuggery (Katie’s No admission fee; RSVP to [email protected]; directions and more Brogue in Great Falls on St. Coffee House space) will offer five seatings information at www.1771.org. Patrick’s Day in 1981. In for a sit-down 3-course meal and music by M Pennywhistle from County Donegal, preparation for the Ireland. Reservations are required. Washington International Horse restaurant’s celebration of 35 years as a The St. Patrick’s Day Pub Bash next door Great Falls Village institution, Kearney com- begins at 10 a.m. and features three bars missioned an oil painting by local Great Falls serving traditional Irish beers, live music Show Seeks Junior Committee Home of the $6,850 Bathroom Remodel artist Begoña Morton to celebrate the all day by Ted Garber, and the $10 cover charge includes an official 2016 commemo- Members restaurant’s Irish roots. rative button. For more information or to From Now to WOW in 5 Days Guarantee “While this painting reflects our Irish heri- make reservations, call The Old Brogue at Washington International Horse Show seeks applications for the Select your tage, it also is a celebration of our commu- 703-759-3309. 2016 WIHS Youth Ambassador and Junior Committee programs. 10% down nity as it is a neighborhood collaboration,” The deadline for applications is Friday, April 1. nothing until the job TWO POOR TEACHERS products from Kearney said. “The painting and its creation Applicants must be students between the ages of 14 and 18 en- isis completecomplete forfor thethe Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling our Mobile is a meaningful way for us to commemorate rolled at local Washington, D.C.area schools. Please review the past 17 years Showroom our 35 years in the Great Falls community.” mountains but the way it is depicted in the requirements and complete the 2016 Junior Committee and Youth and Design The inspiration for the painting began with painting you would never know otherwise. Ambassador Application forms, which can be found at http:// Center a large window frame Kearney rescued from It just makes sense,” added Kearney. www.wihs.org/youth-ambassador-junior-committee/. Fully Insured & a Great Falls residence undergoing renova- Also depicted is Ireland’s famous The junior committee works with the WIHS management team Class A Licensed tion. The frame sat in Kearney’s garage for Glendalough village, which typifies the over the summer and fall and during the show to help prepare for Since 1999 more than two years while considering how Begoña Morton painting in her studio. beauty and rich history of small Irish villages. the week-long Washington International Horse Show held Oct. 25- to re-purpose it. It was during an Arts of Duggan selected the colorful Irish cottages 30 at the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. For more informa- Great Falls exhibit of Morton’s oil paintings depicted near the bottom of the painting and tion, email [email protected]. Free Estimates in the restaurant’s Katie’s Coffee House that the cobblestone fence that traces a path 703-999-2928 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com Kearney decided to commission a painting across the canvas. “These images are dis- to be framed by the window. tinctly Irish and can be seen throughout the Great Falls Senior Center Lun- A native of Spain, Morton moved to Great country,” Duggan said. Falls from Belgium in 2006. She studied clas- Most agree that the painting’s most popu- cheon at L’Auberge Chez sical oil paint technique in Spain and with lar image is of the sheep at the lower right. the Arts of Great Falls. Morton wanted an element that would be Francois Kearney, Morton, Limerick-born restaurant particularly appealing to children and was The Great Falls Senior Center (GFSC) event for April 5 will be a manager Frances Duggan and John Conway, inspired by her own children’s response to luncheon hosted by L’Auberge Chez Francois, 332 Springvale Road, chef at The Old Brogue for the last 14 years, viewing Old Master paintings in museums. Great Falls, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Luncheon includes appetizer, poured over photos of the Irish countryside “Traveling with my children through muse- entrée, and dessert choices with coffee or tea. to select areas, sites and landscapes of per- ums, I noticed they were always immediately Reservations are limited, Cost si $40 per person (tip and tax sonal significance, as well as recognizable drawn to the animals depicted so I wanted included). Call Sondra Taylor, 703-759-6204 or email highlights of the Irish landscape. to make sure I had an image to appeal to [email protected]. Send checks (Payable to GFSC) to Sondra Conway, a native of County Wicklow, Ire- even the smallest diners,” Morton added. Taylor 752 Boehms Court, Great Falls 22066. land, selected several of that region’s geo- “Although, I think they ended up being GFSC’s mission is to enrich the lives of the community’s seniors graphical and historical sites. The Wicklow everyone’s favorite, which is fantastic.” with stimulating and social networking opportunities. To become Head Lighthouse to the right in the paint- Great Falls resident and cabinetmaker Sam a member for 2016, send your name, address, phone number and ing on Ireland’s east coast, has been in Thompson created a custom frame to sur- email with a check for $15.00 per person payable to GFSC to GFSC; Conway’s family history for four generations round the window’s frame and safely enclose P.O. Box 425; Great Falls VA 22066. Also visit gfseniors.org. and his mother is still the housekeeper at the canvas. the Lighthouse’s bed and breakfast. Kearney opened The Old Brogue in the “Begoña brings to life images that are our space previously occupied by an ice cream memories of the Irish countryside and our parlor. The bar counter is a recreation of the families,” comments Conway. “The entire original ice cream parlor bar and the freezer landscape does not exist in reality but within in The Old Brogue is the original used to each pane is a memory that is meaningful store ice cream. to each of us in a different way.” “My father was born in Belfast, and my Morton meticulously planned the paint- grandfather ran several restaurants and inns ing so that each windowpane contains its in Ireland. I wanted to open a pub that re- own Irish vignette. According to Morton, flected my Irish roots. For the last 35 years “the creation of this painting has been a la- at The Old Brogue, we have tried to bring bor of love for each of us. After identifying the unique Irish spirit and cuisine to Great the sites and landscapes we wanted to de- Falls. We want everyone to feel a little bit pict, I felt each image needed to be able to Irish the minute they walk through the door function on its own within a pane, as well and when they see this painting, I believe as in unity with all of the other vignettes they do.” when the painting is viewed as a whole.” For more information about Begoña The mountains of Glenveagh National Morton and to view her artwork, visit Park located in Northern Ireland line the top Photo contributed www.begonamorton.com. of the painting and are where Kearney spent Mike Kearney commissioned an oil painting by local Great Falls artist many days hiking. “Ireland’s Glendalough Begoña Morton to celebrate The Old Brogue’s Irish roots. Pictured, from Lisa Colburn Stewart writer and food Lake does not actually lie at the base of these left, Kearney with Begoña Morton, Frances Duggan and Chef John blogger at www.familyandforks.com. Conway. 10 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 11 Calendar

Send announcements to north@ connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Friday for the following week’s paper. Photos/artwork encouraged.

THURSDAY/MARCH 10 Vienna Art Society Meeting. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Speaker will be Davi D’Agostino who will discuss and demonstration her paintings in oils and acrylics and how she plans subject matter for her own works and also for the classes she teaches. Free. viennaartssociety.org. 703-319-3971. An Alden Theatre Game Night: Sheriff of Nottingham. 7 p.m. Barnes and Production Noble Tysons, 7851 L. Tysons Corner Center, McLean. Bring friends, grab a “Sideways snack from the Cafe and get ready for some board game fun. Free. 703-506- Photo contributed Stories from 6756. http:// Lynn Goldstein, Apres l’Crozon, 12" x 16", Pastel, stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/ 2238. on display at Broadway Gallery in Great Falls Wayside School” from March 1-23. Sat. and Sun., SATURDAY/MARCH 12 Mar. 12–13, 3 p.m. Model Trains and Thomas at Open House. 1-5 p.m. Historic Vienna Ongoing $15/$10 MCC Train Station, 231 Dominion Road NE, Vienna. See and hear model Time Traveler Tuesdays. 4:30 p.m. March 29-June 7. Colvin Run Mill, district residents trolleys and steam and diesel trains 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. This weekly series will take plus Thomas and some of his friends. participants on an interactive journey through time, focusing on a different The layout reflects the mountainous period in Virginia history each week. Register at http:// Old Firehouse Spring Break Trips terrain and towns of Western North www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/colvinrunmill/events.htm. Carolina with award winning Scholarship. Deadline April 1. The Bull Run Civil War Round Table in Sky Zone, Sakura & structures. Free. Donations accepted. Centreville is offering a $1,500 scholarship to a high school senior who www.nvmr.org. 703-938-5157. resides in Fairfax or Prince William counties and will attend college or Monster Mini Golf Churchill Road Elementary School community college in fall 2016. Information and application instructions Book Fair. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Barnes can be found at http://bullruncwrt.org. Monday, Mar. 21, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. and Noble Tysons, 7851 L. Tysons Pigments of My Imagination. Jan. 4-March 31. Great Falls Library, 9830 $65/$55 MCC district residents Corner Center, McLean. Students, Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Long time Great Falls resident Donna parents, staff will host activities to Barnako, has created over a dozen colorful and whimsical small works. Her entertain children including an 11am subjects are varied, from pigs to puppies and cowboy boots. Storytime, bookmark making, face Margaret Newton Original Oils. Through March 31. Modern History G-Force Indoor Go Karts painting and student performances. Collection, 8100 F Old Dominion Drive, McLean. Great Falls original oil Tuesday, Mar. 22, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. 703-506-6756. http:// paintings. Opening reception with artist, Thursday, April 7 from 6-8 p.m. stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/ 703-942-6507. $75/$65 MCC district residents 2238. “Witness: Close Encounters of the Painting Kind.” March 1-31. Katie’s Author and Illustrator Reading Coffee at the Old Brogue Irish Pub, 760 Walker Road, Great Falls. Jill and Signing. 3 p.m. Barnes and Banks’ solo exhibit of backyards, bars, beaches and other scenes keenly Dave & Buster’s Noble Tysons, 7851 L. Tysons Corner captured. JillBanks.com. Wednesday, Mar. 23, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Center, McLean. McLean native Scott Weekly Storytime. Wednesday and Saturday. 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 7851 McBride and co-author Rod L Tysons Corner Center, McLean. Themes and Titles vary. Free admission. $65/$55 MCC district residents Thompson will read and sign copies Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Emmaus United Church of Christ, 900 E of their book “The Adventures of Maple Ave. E, Vienna. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Unitarian Universalist Connor the Courageous Cutter: Congregation of Fairfax, 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. Gentle Kundalini Baltimore, Md. Saving Sarah.” Illustrator Brian Yoga, one free introductory session, senior discounts. Increase your Martin will join them. Free. 703-506- flexibility, improve your breathing and health, reduce your stress. Ravi Thursday, Mar. 24, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. 6756. http:// Kaur has 15 years experience teaching yoga. $15 per session. $85/$75 MCC district residents stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/ www.edimprovement.org. 571-213-3192. 2238. Tai Chi Beginners’ Practice. Saturdays, 8-9 a.m. St. Luke’s Catholic Look to the Rainbow. 6-10 p.m. School Gymnasium, 7005 Georgetown Pike, McLean. Weekly Tai Chi Hogback Mountain Charles Wesley United Methodist practice. Group has met for over 20 years. Free. FreeTaiChi.org. 703-759- Church, 6817 Dean Drive, McLean. 9141. Paintball Come celebrate with the World “Wishes and Dreams” Exhibit. March 1-April 2. Vienna Art Center, 115 Children’s Choir with songs, dance, Pleasant St., NW, Vienna. Free. viennaartssociety. 703-319-3971. Friday, Mar. 25, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. drumming and activities. Featuring Goldstein Artist Showcase. March 1-23. Broadway Gallery, 1025-J Seneca $70/$60 MCC district residents songs with a Celtic spirit in honor of Road, Great Falls. Great Falls Gallery will feature the pastels and mixed St. Patrick’s Day. $10-$30. media paintings of local artist, Lynn Goldstein. www.broadwaygallery.net. worldchildrenschoir.org. 571-344- 703-450-8005. Welcome the Spring Season 2206. Reserve at www.cfnova.org/cocktails SATURDAY-SUNDAY/MARCH 12-13, TUESDAY/MARCH 15 or call Tara Nadel at 703-879-7637. Spring “Sideways Stories from Wayside Whiskey Classics Dinner. 7-9 p.m. School.” 3 p.m. McLean Community Ruth’s Chris Steak House-Tysons Fest Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Corner, 8521 Leesburg Pike, Vienna. WEDNESDAY/MARCH 16 Delightfully demented comedy about Ruth’s Chris Tyson’s Corner and McLean Newcomers and Saturday, the strangest school ever built, where Macallan Highland Single Malt Neighbors Monthly Luncheon. the students battle supernatural Scotch Whisky presents a five-course 11:30 a.m. Peking Gourmet Inn, Mar. 26 teachers and endure madcap lessons. “Whiskey Classics Dinner” prepared 6029 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. 10 a.m.– Performed by youths. Ages 7 and up. by Executive Chef Jean Bosch. Cabi clothing stylist, Allison $15/$10. mcleancenter.org. 703-790- $99.99. http://www.ruthschris.com/ Bateman, will speak, providing us Noon 0123. restaurant-locations/tysons-corner. with all the latest spring trends for 703-848-4290. 2016. $24. RSVP by March 11 to $5 per person; Perennial Personalities. 10 a.m. Susie Osser at [email protected]. Free, infants— SUNDAY/MARCH 13 Vienna Presbyterian Church, 124 McLeanNewcomers.org. Capitol Steps. 4 p.m. James Madison Park St., Vienna. Karen Rexrod, plant 36 months. High School, 2500 James Madison expert and former owner of Windy Drive, Vienna. Comedy troupe. Hill nursery, will present her favorite THURSDAY/MARCH 17 Performance benefits rowing perennial personalities. Spanish Storytime featuring team.$25-$40. Karen’s expertise and knowledge of CommuniKids. 11 a.m. Barnes and Madisoncapitolsteps2016.brownpapertickets.com. perennial plants and their habits. Noble Tysons, 7851 L. Tysons Corner TaBois Galerie Re-opening. 2-6 p.m. Free. [email protected]. Center, McLean. Give your child the 1800 Old Meadow Road, McLean. Cocktails and Conversation. 5-6:30 love of language at a fun, engaging Music by Dave Danze. Premiering p.m. Capital Grille, 1861 Storytime in Spanish. 703-506-6756. International Association of Self- International Drive, McLean. The http://stores.barnesandnoble.com/ Proclaimed Artists and Writers Community Foundation for Northern store/2238. exhibition. [email protected]. Virginia invites you to a private event Game Night: Splendor. 7 p.m. for substantial supporters and friends of the Community Foundation. See Calendar, Page 13

12 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar

From Page 12

Barnes and Noble Tysons, 7851 L. Tysons Corner Center, McLean. Bring friends, grab a snack from the Cafe and get ready for some board game fun. Free. 703-506-6756. http:// stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/ 2238.

FRIDAY/MARCH 18 Flashlight Egg Hunt. 7 p.m. Glyndon Park, 300 Glyndon St., NE, Vienna. Enjoy a family evening searching for eggs and prizes in the dark! Please bring a flashlight so you can find the eggs. Jump like a bunny in the moon bounce and visit the Easter Bunny. 703-255-6360. Photo contributed McLean Art Society Meeting. 10 Photo contributed Dylan Kurtz and principal Sara Harper a.m.-noon. McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Rescheduled performance of “The Importance of Being Linda Maldonado, a painter who uses Earnest” will be at The Alden Theatre on Wednesday, mixed media and creative collage, March 30. Great Falls Elementary Student Moves will be the presenting artist. Guests welcome. 703-790-0123. and visit with Easter Bunny, hosted by Biscuit will follow Storytime. Free. On to Next Round of Spelling Contest Historic Vienna, Inc. 703-938-5187. http://stores.barnesandnoble.com/ Dylan Kurtz, a sixth-grader Spelling Bee, to be held at SATURDAY/MARCH 19 Author Reading and Signing. 2 p.m. store/2238. Easter Egg Hunt at Colvin Run Barnes and Noble Tysons, 7851 L. Easter Egg Hunt. Starts 9:30 a.m. at Great Falls Elementary Lanier Middle School on Sun- Mill. Starting at 10 a.m. Colvin Run Tysons Corner Center, McLean. New Nottoway Park, 9537 Courthouse School, will face the best of day, March 13. His winning Mill, 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great York Times bestselling children’s Road, Vienna. Special appearance by the best in the Fairfax County word was “acetone.” Falls. Hunt for eggs filled with treats author Jonah Winter will read and the Easter Bunny. Bring own basket and treasures of the grounds of sign copies of his new picture-book and hunt for candy and eggs filled Colvin Run Mill Historic Site. biography “Hillary.” Free. 703-506- with treats. Ages 1-9. $10 per child. Separate hunts by age group. Before 6756. http:// Cash only. Information call 703-324- Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Native American Crafts and the hunt, make egg-cellent crafts to stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/ 8566. St., Great Falls. Discover the world of Games Workshop. 9 a.m. take home. Bring your own basket; 2238. Springfest. 10 a.m.-noon. McLean bluebirds while making a difference. Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills program will be held rain or shine. Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Build your own bluebird box and St., Great Falls.Shoot a bow and Ages 2-9. $6/$8. Register at http:// Ave., McLean. Spring Fest is a special learn how to monitor for success. $10 arrow, launch a spear and make cool www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ SATURDAY/MARCH 26 event that includes self-guided arts paid to instructor at class for each crafts as you learn about daily Native colvinrunmill/events.htm. Meet Biscuit. 2 p.m. Barnes and Noble and crafts projects, entertainment box. Meet at the Nature Center. American life long ago. Bring snack, Old-Fashioned Egg Hunt and Roll. Tysons, 7851 L. Tysons Corner and the opportunity for children to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ lunch and drink. Register and 10:30-11:30 a.m. Freeman House, Center, McLean. Special Storytime get a professional-quality photo with parks/riverbend-park/calendar.htm. download forms at http:// 131 Church St., NE, Vienna. Children with one of the most beloved “Bunny.” $5, Free to children up to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ 12 and under and their parents are children’s book characters of all time 36 months. mcleancenter.org. 703- riverbend-park/calendar.htm. welcome to participate in an egg roll - Biscuit! A brief Meet and Greet with 790-0123. MONDAY/MARCH 28 Bring Back Bluebirds. 10 a.m.

For a free digital subscription to one or all of the 15 Connection Newspapers, go to: www.connectionnewspapers.com/ subscribe Be the first to know – get your paper before it hits the press. Complete digital replica of the print edition, including photos and ads, delivered weekly to your e-mail box. Questions? E-mail: goinggreen@connection newspapers.com

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 13 News Visit These Houses of Worship

Welcoming, Diverse, Progressive ST. ANNE’S Battling Pain with Courage EPISCOPAL CHURCH • Reston Former Langley phenom deals with painful and 7:45 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite I 9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II potentially life threatening effects of UV rays. Sunday School: preschool - grade 2 Music: grades 3 - 7 By Doug Duenkel 10:25 a.m. Sunday School Grades 3 to 6 Music 4 years to 2nd grade 11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II T von Seggern knows how to deal 5:00 p.m. Come Just as You Are Contemporary Service with pain and adversity. He has lived Nursery care provided at 9:00 a.m. service Jwith it every day by just walking out- The Rev. James Papile, Rector side into the sunshine. JT suffers from The Rev. Laura Cochran Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP), a rare 703-437-6530 and potentially life threatening disease. There www.stannes-reston.org 1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston is no cure for EPP and currently in the US, there are no effective treatments. “Imagine sitting in your college quantum physics class, trying to stay focused on your FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF VIENNA exam, while your hands feel like they are con- tinually being stung by bees, and someone is 450 ORCHARD STREET, NW pouring boiling oil on your neck. That is what VIENNA, VA 22180 it is like for our son”, said Gayle von Seggern. 703-938-8525 “Now imagine playing tennis outside in the [email protected] most competitive environment. I’m amazed at www.fbcv.org his courage and resolve.”

SUNDAY WORSHIP, 7:45 AM & 11:00 AM A FOUR YEAR LETTER WINNER at Lan- CHURCH SCHOOL 9:30AM-10:30AM gley High School, JT was twice a State finalist. MIDWEEK SERVICES, WED. 7:00 PM He was recruited out of high school to play at Randolph College and was named MVP of the team his freshman year and as a sophomore To Highlight Your Faith Community, was named to the All-ODAC tennis team – a call Karen at 703-917-6468 first in Randolph history. All of this with zero Photos contributed protection from the sun. JT von Seggern plays tennis at Randolph Col- JT had experienced years in pain: wringing lege and was named MVP of the tennis team his his hands and crying in pain for no apparent freshman year. reason while he was a toddler, swell- ing of his hands, forearms and face, were challenging and usually left JT SPECIAL CONNECTIONS CALENDAR swelling in his feet so extreme that in pain. Class field trips to anywhere Advertising Deadlines are the previous Thursday unless noted. the blood vessels in his feet ruptured outside usually ended with JT in pain and was rushed to the doctors, as well and missing school for a few days MARCH as painful scabby sores on his nose, while recovering. 3/23/2016..Spring Fun, Food, Arts & Entertainment lips, cheeks, neck and ears. His par- While JT has handled this burden FCPS Spring Break 3/21-3/25 ents actively searched for the cause remarkably well, it has definitely APRIL of such pain. They went to numerous made an impact in his quality of life 4/6/2016...... Wellbeing – Senior Living Pullout dermatologists, several pediatricians, and his psyche. All activities that are Easter Sunday is March 27 Johns Hopkins, all to no avail. Finally, normally associated with pleasure — 4/13/2016...... Real Estate Pullout – New Homes when JT was in fourth grade a doc- picnics, hikes, fishing, parks, sport — 4/20/2016...... A+ Camps & Schools tor at Georgetown University Hospi- are a source of pain for JT. While play- 4/27/2016...... A+ Camps & Schools Pullout tal recommended a pediatric derma- ing in the State tennis tournament in 4/27/2016...... Mother’s Day Celebrations, tologist. By that time his parents had high school, Dr. Silverman remarked, Dining & Gifts I assembled a three ring binder of pic- Not letting pain define “I don’t know how JT got through tures of all of the episodes, swelling, him: JT von Seggern. States, his ability to push through the 4/27/2016...... Spring Outlook 2016 scabs,scars, etc. Dr. Silverman took pain is nothing short of incredible.” MAY one look at the binder and uttered the words that 5/4/2016...... McLean Day Pullout are forever seared in his parents’ memory: “I think I MIRACULOUSLY, there is now a drug, manufac- 5/4/2016...... Mother’s Day Dining & Gifts II know what your son has”. Mere words could not tured by Clinuvel, called Scenesse that is the first 5/4/2016...... Wellbeing express how the family felt finally knowing what was drug to treat patients with EPP. Scenesse provides Mother’s Day is May 8 causing JT such pain. Tests later came back positive EPP patients with their first taste of normalcy. Un- 5/11/2016...... HomeLifeStyle for EPP. fortunately for JT, and the approximately 500 other 5/18/2016...... A+ Camps & Schools, Proms, While this new knowledge gave the family an ar- EPP patients in the U.S., Scenesse is not available in senal of information about how to keep JT from be- the U.S. The first phase II study of Scenesse was con- Summer Planning ing in pain, JT quickly learned that his sports loving ducted in Switzerland in 2006. Since that time, there E-mail [email protected] for more information. life would be forever altered. At the time, JT was have been successful trials in the U.S. in 2010 but playing both baseball and soccer. Knowing that he the FDA has not yet approved the drug for use in the could only bear limited exposure to UV light, one of U.S., although hopefully, that will happen in the next Award- the outdoor sports had to go. JT dressed in sun pro- few years. Winning Newspapers & Online tective clothing as much as possible, which allowed When John and Gayle asked JT about being treated 703-778-9431 him to continue playing soccer. Most other normal with Scenesse, JT indicated that he thought it was www.ConnectionNewspapers.com/Advertising childhood activities were challenging at best. Family too expensive. When they asked him if he could imag- Reaching Suburban Washington’s Leading Households trips to the beach meant JT had to stay inside until ine going to school in the fall and not being in pain, • Alexandria Gazette Packet • Fairfax Connection • Oak Hill/Herndon Connection sunset, golfing with his grandfather could only hap- he said, “No mom, I cannot even imagine that”. As • Arlington Connection • Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection • Potomac Almanac pen in the very late afternoon and he had to wear every parent out there knows, they could not bear to • Burke Connection • Great Falls Connection • Reston Connection • Centre View • McLean Connection • Springfield Connection protective clothing, and his new passion, tennis, had • Chantilly Connection • Mount Vernon Gazette • Vienna/Oakton Connection to be played indoors. Even trips to amusement parks See Courage, Page 15

14 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

Photos by Greg Staley Courage Jill Banks Exhibits at From Page 14 have JT continue in pain Katie’s Coffee when they knew there was “Witness: Close Encounters of the relief for him. The von Painting Kind,” award-winning oil Seggerns feel incredibly painter Jill Banks’ solo exhibit of blessed to have found a doc- backyards, bars, beaches and other tor in Switzerland who is scenes are waiting to be seen in treating JT with the drug Katie’s Coffee House (also open for starting last August. He will dinner) at the Old Brogue Irish Pub, hopefully receive the implan- 760C Walker Road in the Great Falls tation of Scenesse every 2 to Village Centre, from March 1-31. 3 months. See www.JillBanks.com for an While traveling to Switzer- online preview of the exhibit and land every few months for more information or call 703-403- medical treatment may seem 7435). extreme, it is JT’s only option Free Painting Demo on Saturday, to live pain free until the March 19, 1 to 4 p.m. at the Art- drug is approved in the U.S. ists’ Atelier and Arts of Great Falls “Despite this disease that Gallery and School space a few JT has had to live with his doors away at 756 Walker Road, entire life, with no cure in Great Falls, in the Village Centre. “Piano al Fresco,” oil by Jill Banks, 20"h x sight and no treatments in RSVP for that event to “Scene at the Bar,” oil on linen-lined 16"w. A borrowed backyard view painted the U.S., JT has fought his [email protected]. panel, 24"h x 18"w by Jill Banks. plein air in the Brandywine Valley. way through each and every Banks’ “Witness” exhibit runs painful exposure,” says concurrently with many exciting required for these events. Go to p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; June 26 to July 3, join her Paint Gayle. “He has refused to let events being held at Katie’s Cof- oldbrogue.com for details. by appointment or by chance. Visit with Me in Italy workshop held in EPP define him or destroy fee and the Old Brogue during the See more of Banks’ work at the www.GreatFallsAtelier.com the Piemonte wine region of who he is – an athlete and month of March, including the Artists’ Atelier, where she shares Banks offers classes through the Northern Italy. Beginners to ad- an incredible young man just Annual Celtic Concert series and studio space with nine fellow art- Arts of Great Falls, including Paint- vanced students welcome to come trying to live his life like the the Snuggery St. Patrick’s Day Irish ists. The Atelier is located at 756 ing the Plein Air Landscape, Still enjoy this trip of a lifetime. Read rest of us.” Concert, celebrating the Brogue’s Walker Road, Great Falls, and is Life and Evening Paint that will be about the Places We’ll Go on at 35th Anniversary. Reservations open on Wednesdays, noon to 4 starting in early April. And, from www.JillBanks.com.

Be a part of our Wellbeing pages, the first week of every month. Delight in our HomeLifeStyle sections, the second week of every month. Peek at the top real estate sales, glimpse over-the- top remodeling projects, get prac- tical suggestions for your home. Celebrate students, camps, schools, enrichment programs, colleges and more in our A-plus: Education, Learning, Fun pages, the third week of every month. Questions? E-mail sales@connection newspapers.com or call 703-778-9431

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 15 Great Falls Connection Sports Editor Jon Roetman Sports 703-752-4031 or [email protected]

Photo by

Craig Sterbutzel

Photos by

Craig Sterbutzel Craig

/The Connection

/The Connection

Paige Galiani, seen during the region tournament, and the Langley girls’ basketball team advanced to the state semifinals with a win over Landstown in the quarterfinals on Saturday. Oakton junior Delaney Connolly finished Maddie Royle and the Oakton girls’ bas- with 15 points against Woodbridge on ketball team advanced to the state semifi- Saturday. nals for the second straight year. Galiani’s Clutch Shot Sends Hot Start Propels Langley to State Semis aige Galiani is the Lan- tournament and that shot Pgley girls’ basketball helped send us to the final four, team’s go-to offensive it’s hard to think of a bigger Oakton to State Semifinals player and on Saturday she shot this season.” team that we’re playing and all of stepped up in the season’s big- Galiani led Langley with 17 Cougars open us know our roles so we come out gest moment. points. Ari Aulisi finished with knowing what we have to do to Galiani knocked down a deep eight points and Jordyn with 20-2 run score points.” Marquis said the 3-pointer that gave Langley, the Callaghan added four. Cougars weren’t taking No. 3 seed from the 6A North The victory improved against Woodbridge lightly after Herndon, region, the lead with less than Langley’s record to 25-5. the 6A North region’s No. 4 seed, a minute remaining and the “We kept our composure re- Woodbridge. upset 6A South champion Saxons held on for a 34-32 vic- ally well, especially after miss- By Jon Roetman Woodside the previous night. tory over 6A South runner-up ing free throws and losing the The Connection “We knew that Herndon came Landstown in the state lead,” Langley head coach out and beat the No. 1 ranked quarterfinals at Old Dominion Amanda Baker wrote in an ith the Oakton team of their region,” Marquis University. email. “I give the players a lot girls’ basketball said, “so we knew that anything Langley advanced to the of credit for being able to semifinals, where the Saxons bounce back so quickly during team having se- Oakton senior Alex Marquis could happen and we knew that W faced Oakton on Tuesday, after the game.” cured a return scored 12 points during the we were going to have to come out The Connection’s deadline. Langley advanced to face trip to the state final four, head Cougars’ state quarterfinal strong and just play our game and Trailing 32-30, Galiani saved undefeated 6A North champion coach Fred Priester explained victory over Woodbridge on we couldn’t take anything for Langley’s season with a clutch Oakton on Tuesday. The Cou- what the Cougars learned from Saturday. granted.” last year’s semifinal loss to Bethel Royle led Oakton with 21 points, shot from behind the arc. gars defeated the Saxons 44-41 that could help during this state semifinals, where they faced including 11 during the Cougars’ “It was off a play we’ve run in the region semifinals on Feb. season’s quest for a state champi- Langley on Tuesday, after The dominant first quarter, and many times before, and the 26. onship. Connection’s deadline. grabbed eight rebounds. Connelly team ran it really well and On Feb. 20, Langley won its “Last time, I don’t want to say After a pair of Woodbridge free finished with 15 points and nine Paige saw her window and took first conference/district cham- we came out timid, but Bethel throws cut the Oakton lead to 6-2 rebounds. Kailyn Fee scored 14 a gutsy shot,” Langley head pionship since 1988, beating dropped about five 3-pointers on with 5:29 left in the opening quar- points and knocked down four 3- coach Amanda Baker wrote in Fairfax 42-38 in the Conference us in the first minute-and-a-half,” ter, the Cougars scored 14 straight pointers, and Marquis added 12 an email. “… Taking into ac- 6 tournament final. — Jon Roetman Priester said, “and we were play- points, including a pair of 3-point- points. count that we are in the state ing scramble ball the rest of the ers by Maddie Royle. Oakton Oakton finished with eight 3- time.” ended the first quarter with a 23- pointers. to stop shooting.” “Last year was [our] first time Judging by Oakton’s perfor- 5 advantage and extended the lead With so many scoring options, Oakton improved to 29-0 with … going to the state tournament,” mance against Woodbridge in the to 27-5 with buckets by Alex Mar- how does Priester decide who gets the win over Woodbridge. It was Marquis said about the players on state quarterfinals, the Cougars quis and Delaney Connolly early the ball? the Cougars’ 55th victory in their the 2015-16 Oakton roster, “so I have a firm grasp on what it takes in the second quarter. A Connolly “It’s not a seamless process, I will last 56 games dating back to De- think now that we’ve been there, to start a game in non-timid fash- 3-pointer gave Oakton a 34-14 tell you,” the Oakton head coach cember of 2014, including a pair we know what it’s like and we ion. halftime advantage and the Cou- said. “We have certain rules for of Conference 5 and 6A North re- know how it feels to lose in the Oakton, the 6A North region gars led by as many as 27 points certain people, but the fact of the gion championships. Oakton’s only semifinals and none of us want champion, opened Saturday’s con- in the second half. matter is, if someone hits one, let’s defeat during that stretch was the that to happen again, so we’ll be test with a 20-2 run and defeated “We come out with a really high get them the ball again as quickly 73-63 loss to Bethel in the 2015 ready.” 6A South No. 4 seed Woodbridge intensity every single game — a as possible. … I always have had state semifinals. Despite falling Oakton’s last state champion- 70-47 at Robinson Secondary lot of energy,” Connolly said. “We a rule for as long as I’ve been behind 17-4 in the first quarter, the ship came in 2012, when the Cou- School. The Cougars remained push the ball hard. We kind of ad- coaching, especially when you Cougars had a chance to tie or take gars finished 31-0. undefeated and advanced to the just our speed depending on the have shooters: I’ll tell you when the lead in the fourth quarter. 16 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Cappies Review Truly ‘Wunderbar’ Madeira School presents “Kiss Me Kate.”

By Kelsey Franklin Photo by C. Stanley Photography Thomas S. Wootton High School Faith Slaughter (left) and Emily Barré

aking the themes of Shakespeare and put- tistical character while tackling a traditionally bari- ting them into an upbeat, lively show, the tone role. Faith Slaughter was equally as captivating TMadeira School’s performance of “Kiss Me as Lili with a melodious singing voice and incredible Kate” was truly “Wunderbar!” ability to distinguish between her two characters, Lilli “Kiss Me Kate” was written by Samuel and Bella and Katherine, even though they’re quite similar. Spewack in 1948, with music by Cole Porter. This The group numbers were a joy to watch, particu- play-within-a-play follows the on and offstage drama larly “Too Darn Hot,” which featured Nicole Schwartz of a musical production of Shakespeare’s “The Tam- as Paul, along with the other actors and stagehands ing of the Shrew.” This particular production sets the of Shrew. Schwartz’s masculine mannerisms and show in the 1980s. Fred Graham stars as Petruchio voice made the scene very fun and upbeat. Although alongside his ex-wife, Lilli Vanessi, who plays the ensemble was difficult to hear at some points, Katherine. Lois Lane and her gambling beau, Bill, the dancing was excellent and lively. One of the more play Bianca and Lucentio. Unfortunately, Bill’s bad comedic elements of the show were the two mob- gambling habit causes a couple of gangsters to come sters, played by Mary Kate Gould and Kerstin into the scene. Chaos ensues. Shimkin. Their wit was quick paced and their quips Photo contributed With great humor, songs and dance numbers, this were well-timed. Cooper Science Olympians show was very entertaining. Everyone, even many As for the technical aspects of the show, everything in the ensemble, had a great energy. There is some was done well. While not entirely consistent, the Go to State Competition Shakespearian language in the show, but most ac- scene changes were fairly smooth, especially with On Feb. 13, Cooper Middle School eighth grade tors were able to portray the meaning through body the use of a fly system. The costumes for the Padua students Anna Krause-Steinrauf and Jack Zurich language and facial expression. The first number scenes were beautiful and vibrant. The set was quite placed third in Green Generation at the Science started out a bit rough, but after that, the show found impressive. It was well built and the painting was Olympiad competition in Charlottesville, Va. its rhythm. bright and detailed. Cooper’s Science Olympiad team did well and was Emily Barré was particularly impressive as Fred. Her The Madeira School did a superb job with “Kiss invited back to the state competition on April 16. performance was energetic and she owned the ego- Me Kate.” You’d be “So In Love” with this show!

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18 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-778-9411 Home & Garden And It’s Just So Zone 6: • Arlington • Great Falls Home & Garden Zone 6 Ad Deadline: • McLean • Vienna/Oakton connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com Monday Noon Happening Now

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 ❖ 19 www.GreatFallsGreatHomes.com

Great Falls $1,499,000 Great Falls $1,299,000 Great Falls $1,450,000

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20 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ March 9-15, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyleHomeHomeLifeStyleSpring 2016 LifeStyle

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Idyllic setting in north-east Great Falls, close to both the Potomac River and the Riverbend Recent renovations reflect today’s exacting details including new hardwood floors, neutral and desirable colors, County Club, as well as an easy commute down River Bend and Georgetown Pike to the remodeled chef’s kitchen, and exquisite custom bathrooms. Designed for style and functionality, the owners left no beltway. This 1.7 acre cleared lot offers the ultimate in serenity and convenience for a spec- detail undone. Prepare to be wowed from the moment you enter the new front doors. You will love the large open tacular new design with panoramic views of the night skies. Call for more details. spaces and window walls with spectacular views of a level backyard surrounded by mature trees for privacy. Donna Uscinski NVAR Lifetime Top Producer “Experience Counts” [email protected] • 703-759-7204 9841 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066 • 703-759-9190

2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle A primer for doing either Buying or Selling? and avoiding pitfalls.

By Andrea Worker tain pets wandering by, the piled-high laun- The Connection dry basket, or a reflection of the photogra- pher can put your property on the “don’t ere we are, once again right want to see that one” list. on the heels of the Spring/ HSummer real estate season YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT can give when it seems like “For Sale” you a more comprehensive checklist and do signs become the most common lawn or- a walk-through before an Open House or nament or condo window decoration. Tele- to prepare for showings, but here are some vision shows like “House Hunters,” “Prop- of the “musts” as advised by some of our erty Brothers,” “Love it or List It,” and their area experts: like make the process of buying or selling a ❖ Double check for clutter, and property seem mostly a breeze, filled with CLEAN, CLEAN CLEAN! A thorough afternoons sipping cocktails at the Tiki Bar cleaning by a professional service is much while you make one of the most important recommended. Don’t forget the windows decisions of your life. Selling, and certainly and the carpets. buying a new home should be an occasion ❖ Do the “Sniff Test.” This one is for celebration, but you might not be doing critical for homes with pets or smokers. too much of that unless you understand the Again, put on your thick skin armour. Re- basics of either process and have them well frigerators, garbage disposals, trash cans under control. and carpets can be odoriferous stumbling With help from some knowledgeable blocks to a good showing. Give your home sources like the Northern Virginia Associa- a thorough airing out before show time, tion of Realtors (NVAR), the National Asso- especially in the kitchen. ciation of Realtors (NAR) and some re- Photo by Andrea Worker ❖ Double check for sticking doors, spected local experts, here’s a bit of a primer What’s wrong with this picture? It’s a gorgeous kitchen, but real estate burned out light bulbs, loose knobs. on buying or selling a property. We’re go- agents will tell you that the green plastic cup, the dishwashing soap and ❖ Stage it – Consider a professional ing for the basics here with a few comments the drainboard should all vanish from the selling photos of your house, “stager” or at least give each space a neu- about our local market. We will give you and certainly during any showings. tral, de-cluttered living “story” that helps some resources for more information before buyers visualize themselves right at home. we sign off. Ready? Here we go! ments and provide some indication about manuals - something that really impresses To highlight upgrades or bring attention to your real estate agent’s skills at pricing your those buyers, while last-minute searches items/features in a room, you might add Let’s start with our sellers, since for property and negotiation the best price. could pose a problem at closing. an attractive picture frame with a few well the most part, they have the most work to Now what? Put on your thickest skin, written and formatted sentences on classy do to get the job done. First question. Use open your wallet just a tad, listen to that Clean and get organized. Here’s writing paper. Of course, a little light music an agent or go it alone? Strictly a personal agent, and before you even have that first where you need that thick skin. Your agent and a plate of yummy cookies make every- decision. You may think only saving the real showing: isn’t casting aspersions on your personal one feel welcome. estate agent fees is the basis for the answer, taste or “dissing” your kids, pets, hobbies, ❖ Put away small valuables, jew- but if you decide to be your own agent, be Be realistic about your asking etc. when she tells you to neutralize as much elry and medications. sure you have done the homework on legal price. “Don’t be too aggressive,” cautioned as possible, put away the toys and pet para- ❖ Don’t hang around – and take Fido and regulatory requirements, and be pre- real estate agent Jennifer Boyce of Long and phernalia, and all the other stuff that is part or Fifi with you if possible. If not, confine pared for the paperwork. Sadly, one mis- Foster in Burke. Anita Lasansky, CRB, man- of our comfortable living. Your agent is pets to crates or one room and be sure to step here could be pretty costly and there aging broker-vice president Long and Fos- merely looking out for you, and making warn agents in advance. Be sure you have goes those potential savings. And are you ter Reston North Hills-Herndon, agrees with your home appealing to the widest pool of left contact information in case of questions ready to be your own marketer and be avail- that advice, and adds that sellers around potential buyers. Pay special attention to or issues. I speak from experience on this able night and day and weekends to show the Wiehle Metro station in Reston shouldn’t closets and bathrooms, and no, don’t use one. A potential buyer’s 3-year-old son de- your property? Another thought…many expect a big bump in sales price just be- the spare bedroom as the storage catch-all. cided to let my crated dog out for some potential buyers are not comfortable deal- cause of Metro’s arrival. Lasansky has seen If there isn’t space inside the house, con- “play time.” Thankfully, I left my cell num- ing directly, especially during negotiations, sellers factor in 5-10 percent increases on sider the smallest space at a storage facility ber right there on the kitchen counter – with the homeowner and would prefer the that basis, but “it just hasn’t had that ef- for the the extra boxes, furniture, gadgets along with those cookies – so the showing buffer of a trustworthy agent that they can fect,” she said. Getting a pre-appraisal or and whatnots while your property is on the agent could quickly contact me before my really share their thoughts with. Statistics advice from a lender can help in setting the market. poor pooch took to the hills. have also shown that properties for sale by best realistic sales price, since most buyers ❖ Make your property accessible – owner more often receive lower initial of- will need a mortgage. First impressions. That means check If potential buyers can only see your prop- fers, since the buyer might mistakenly be- out curb appeal, from the condition of lawn erty from 10 a.m. until noon on Tuesdays lieve that the seller is in a more difficult Think about getting a pre-sale and landscape to the front entryway. Trim and Thursdays, prepare for a long wait be- financial situation and may accept a lower- home inspection. This could cost a bit. those bushes. Edge that grass. Put down fore a successful closing. Selling a home is than-market value offer. Think at least $500, depending on the size some new mulch, and clean up those oil often a numbers game. As disruptive as it Let’s assume that you are working with and age of the property. The buyer will have spots on the driveway. Inside might await can be, the more people who look, the bet- an agent. Hopefully, you asked all the right an inspection done, but being proactive an affordable Taj Mahal, but if your buyers ter chance of a sale. questions before signing an agreement to could help locate potential problems that won’t cross the threshold because of what sell. Don’t be shy. It’s okay to “interview” might stall, or even end a sale. Even if you they see on the outside… Even adding a FOR BUYERS. Just as with the sellers, several agents and ask for references. Ask don’t go for the professional inspection, take pot of bright flowers, a seasonal wreath, and buyers should shop around for a trusted real to make contact with their last two or three a look around and get on with those repairs maybe a new doormat can help. estate partner. Again, ask those questions, clients – not just the ones that they offer up or more affordable upgrades you’ve been get those referrals and be sure that your as testimonials. What’s their typical “Days meaning to tackle. If you think that bigger Photos. Unless you are one gifted pho- agent understands your needs and expec- on Market” and how do their times com- ticket items like a new roof or replacement tographer, let the professionals handle this tations and that you understand the pro- pare to others. And a biggie – what’s the of major appliances might be an issue, at one. Most buyers today do their scouting cess as they describe it. average variation between the initial list- least get estimates on costs to help in nego- online. Lots of quality photos attract the ing price and the final sales price? The an- tiating with your potential buyers. While most visitors. Equally, photos that don’t swer here may spare you some disappoint- you’re at it, locate those warranties and show off each room to advantage, or con- See Buying or Selling, Page 8 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 ❖ 3 HomeLifeStyle Nanny Suites Add Value High-end live-in quarters attract au pairs and can increase property values.

By Marilyn Campbell coming in and so they’re not working The Connection 24 hours a day,” said Ward. Contractors say the cost of adding a hen Peggy Delinois nanny suite can range from $5,000 on Hamilton relocated to the a property where there is an existing W Washington, D.C. area and bathroom and space for a bedroom to began working full-time more than $100,000 on properties after spending eight years as an at-home where plumbing must be installed or mother of two children, childcare was one an small addition is required. “[A} of her top concerns. She decided that a live- bathroom is the biggest expense be- in au pair was the best choice for her fam- cause of the plumbing,” said Ward. ily. “I like the live-in because I don’t have to worry about issues with transportation on “We try to create a close the caretaker’s part,” said Hamilton. “I don’t have to worry about them having compet- mimic of the main house ing obligations.” Finding and keeping a live-in nanny in a and the primary kitchen competitive childcare market can be a high and bathrooms of the stakes game. To lure and retain experienced, nurturing caregivers, many families shell main house.” out as much as $100,000 to create stylishly Photo courtesy of TruPlace — Christopher Dietz, appointed living space for their au pairs. The space serves as a nanny suite in an Alexandria home. Additional From kitchens with marble countertops and living areas can increase a property’s value, say real estate agents. Dietz Development stainless steel appliances to bathrooms with luxury showerheads and rich wood want people to say, ‘Wow, we can tell you a higher end tile and materials that blended Because such an addition requires cabinetry, local designers create living quar- really cut corners on this space.’“ with the rest of the house,” said Ward. “It a significant investment, Kai Tong of ters so enchanting and thoughtfully de- Maintaining a continuity in quality while turned out to be like a high-end studio Hopkins and Porter Construction in signed that a nanny wouldn’t dream of leav- being budget conscious requires judicious apartment that you could get high rent for.” Potomac, Md. encourages clients to ing. planning.“We may splurge on custom win- The au pair’s space has a separate en- think long term. “One of the most “If you’re a live-in nanny, you want your dow treatments and a bedskirt and save on trance, something that offers privacy to both important and useful realizations own space. In fact, nannies won’t take a job things like furniture using retail pieces,” the nanny and the family. “We made it so from a family that won’t provide it,” said said Marika Meyer, principal of Marika that the au pair has an independent way of See Nanny Suite, Page 8 Jackie Wood-Gobuluk, owner of Metropoli- Meyer Interiors in Bethesda. tan Nannies in Herndon, Virginia. When an Arlington, Va. family enlisted The spaces most often used for nanny architect J.P. Ward of Anthony Wilder De- suites are the lower level or attic, says Chris- sign/Build, Inc. to design an au pair suite topher Dietz of Dietz Development. “We try for their home, they wanted him to main- to create a close mimic of the main house tain continuity in both color and materials. and the primary kitchen and bathrooms of A cathedral ceiling, granite countertops, and the main house,” he said. “We don’t do under cabinet lighting were key as he Formica or IKEA cabinets. We generally use blended the rich aesthetic quality of the … granite, marble or Silestone. You don’t original home with the new space. “We used

Photo courtesy of Dietz Development The colors of this au pair suite bathroom are similar to those used in the Photo by Morgan Howarth rest of the house. Families create spa-like living quarters to attract and retain live-in 4 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls HomeLifeStyle is produced by Connection Newspapers You Can Make a Difference www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Local Media Connection LLC

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 ❖ 5 Call us for a free consultation

New Listing Coming Soon Coming Soon

Great Falls $1,199,000 Great Falls Great Falls

Vienna $625,000 Great Falls $929,000 McLean $950,000

To Be Built To Be Built Under Contract

Park Garden, Reston Caboose Terrace, Sterling Great Falls $3,835,525 Great Falls$553,000 $1,681,405 Reston$268,000 $638,900 Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. P.O. Box 97 9841 Georgetown Pike Great Falls, VA 22066 703-759-9190

6 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com ®

LONGRESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL& ESTATE FOSTER • MORTGAGE • TITLE • INSURANCE

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Great Falls “Home of Great Falls $1,075,000 the Month” $929,000 4-sided Brick Contest!! Charming colonial Colonial on an L&F invites the children updated throughout. astonishing 2.7 of Great Falls to share Family room with acres of meadow- their Dream Home fireplace opens to land sits deep off of ideas! All kids under 12 expanded kitchen Springvale Road are eligible. Drop off and breakfast room close to Turner Farm your drawings at our addition overlooking Park. Enchanting outdoor entertaining space with swimming pool and spa. office in the Village. One winner per month will be published in our beautiful backyard. Three finished levels. Cul-de-sac location. Lynn Kemmerer 703-447-1973 local newspaper ad, our Facebook page and displayed in our window. Eileen Summers 703-244-3190

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A Tribute to UNDER It doesn’t get better than UNDER Location, Location! Beautiful Virginia this Great Falls Country move in ready 6 BR 5.5 BA home CONTRA Colonial Estate! 6+ acres, 2 CONTRA with high end upgrades through- Architecture streams, ultimate privacy, out. Two custom stone fireplaces, with intricate SPECTACULAR remodel- gourmet kitchen, plantation shut- Lisa Korade brickwork and ing, gorgeous outdoor ters & hardwoods throughout, room after amenities, 2 zip lines & huge master suite with custom closets, 4th floor loft with full bath and sitting area. Managing Broker, room of luxury plus expansive stone plaza with fire-pit. custom tree house, 2 screened in porches PLUS best value in Great Falls! $1.99M - a steal! Walking distance to Wegmans, shops and restaurants. Priced to sell $795,000.00 Donna Uscinski 703-759-7204 Anne Erickson 703-966-8614 Realtor® Elizabeth Hajost 703-851-8477

Great Falls Sales Office 9841 Georgetown Pike, PO Box 97 703-759-9190 Great Falls, VA 22066 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 ❖ 7 HomeLifeStyle

Good Advice: “I let sellers know that they need to expect that some of their privacy will be compromised...their Buying or Selling? home needs to be in showing condition every day before they leave, clean kitchen, beds made, every- thing put away, pets secured and comfortable, and From Page 3 counter intuitive at this point, but especially property with an HOA (Home Owners As- that the home smells clean and fresh. I always sug- for first-time buyers with an average of 10 sociation) there are even more questions to gest they visit model homes to see examples of what buyers fall in love with and why.” Buyers don’t have to do all that physical years in the home, it’s good to think ahead ask and things to be considered. These can – Megan Bailey, Bailey Fine Properties, prep work until it’s time to get ready for and consider what the area and the home get pretty specific and detailed, so your best [email protected] their actual move, but there are a lot of con- might be like when it’s time to move on. bet is to ask that agent. ❖ “Some of my absolutes … for buyers, please be siderations to deal with on this side of the Keep repair, maintenance and Now, about the local market. Checking the careful what you say. There could be a recording real estate fence, as well. The best starting running costs in mind. Even a brand- data from RealEstate Business Intelligence device in the house. Not unusual anymore with place is making sure that you know what new home may require some work or cus- (RBI), an arm of the local MLS system, today’s security technology. For example, don’t you are looking for. Single family house with tomizing to suit your lifestyle, so consider Fairfax County had the most closed sales in look at pictures and say that their children look creepy. Yes, I have had this happen, but luckily it an enormous backyard or a “zero lot?” A those costs. You may have the approval for 2015, up 14.6 percent from the previous wasn’t recorded. Sellers, put away medications and condo in an urban setting with Metro ac- that attractive “McMansion” but are you year. Alexandria, Fairfax City, Arlington and jewelry. It’s rare, but prescription drugs are the cess, or a more resort feel with access to prepared for the electric bills, mowing that Falls Church round out the top five mar- number one item that ‘goes missing’ during open walking/biking trails or other amenities? acre, and the property taxes on top of the kets in the area for closed sales last year. houses or showings.” – Smita Lal, Long and Foster Reston The National Association of Realtors sug- monthly mortgage? Ask the seller for de- The figures for January 2016 show an North Hills-Herndon gests developing a “Home/Neighborhood tails on utility costs and other maintenance uptick in sales volume, but a slight decrease Wish List,” prioritizing from “must have” to that the property requires, i.e. pool upkeep. of 2.5 percent in median sales price across “Recently had a listing that needed a bit of up- “it would be nice if …” and reviewing the ❖ Don’t go “house-blind.” When you the Metro region. Average DOM in January dating. The seller was fine with spending some money to get their home in selling condition, but list after a few viewings to see if your are so taken with the house that you might was 44 days, an increase from last year, but balked at my suggestion to replace the fluorescent thoughts have changed. ignore factors that will ultimately make for analysts feel much of that number can be lighting in the kitchen. Four months later, the seller Some of the basics as advised by the NVAR a poor buying decision. Visit the property attributed to the effects of Storm Jonas. The finally agreed to spend the $1000 to replace the and NAR and some of their area experts: several times, inside and out, at various best news for sellers was that the homes light. We ratified a contract 5 days after the work was done. Moral of the story: If you are hiring a pro ❖ Get pre-qualified. Better yet, get times of the day and on different days of sold in January averaged 96 percent of their to help you buy or sell a home, listen to their ad- pre-approved by a lender before you start the week to get a real feel for the neighbor- asking price. Maybe even more pleasing for vice. They do this for a living, not once every 5 – looking. That way you will know what you hood. It may seem like your peaceful oasis sellers to hear is that RBI forecasts inven- 10 years. By the way, lighting is super important. Current and bright, please.” can afford, be ready to make an offer and at 10 a.m. on Wednesday morning, but it tory growth in 2016 will likely turn nega- — Andy Krumholz, Keller Williams be a more attractive buyer since the seller could turn into the scene of the local play- tive at some point. Buyers be prepared. This Realty, Utopian Homes knows you can make good on that offer. In ground by 4 in the afternoon. Or maybe it’s could lead to those multiple-offer wars we many markets within Northern Virginia, the only cut through for traffic heading to have seen in the past. Sellers be cautioned. “I always tell my sellers, ‘To be clear, I will give you a list of customized items to prepare your buyers still out number inventory, so pre- a major commuter route. Maybe you didn’t That doesn’t mean your best strategy is to home. It will be in order of importance. You may approval can help set your offer apart. notice on that first visit that the neighbor over-price your property. “A properly priced not agree with the list, and I understand that, but Megan Bailey of Bailey Fine Properties says three doors down seems to be operating a property in good condition is still the fast- I assure you, the more you complete, the fewer “Buyers must be pre-approved before go- kennel in their backyard, or that the next est mover,” are the words to the wise from days on the market, and of course at the right price.’ So far I haven’t missed.” ing out to look at homes with me. It’s im- street over is a major commercial zone? Anita Lasansky CRB, managing broker-VP, — Lisa Carlisle, Long and Foster portant to know that they feel comfortable Track travel distance for more than your Long and Foster Reston North Hills- Reston North Hills-Herndon … by having the lender provide them with work commune. What about your favorite Herndon with her more than forty years of a “Good Faith Estimate” to break down the stores and activities? Take a ride through local experience. both offer helpful information and guidance costs and to make sure the lender can fi- the entire neighborhood and even its sur- Whether you are the potential buyer or for buyers and sellers at www.realtor.org nance the home. Taking someone to look roundings to see if you like what you will the seller, there are plenty of resources out and www.nvar.com. Most of the real estate at homes out of their price range … sets be seeing for a long time to come. there to get you started. For the financial inventory sites also include sections on how the client up for disappointment.” ❖ Research. Your agent can direct you and statistically inclined researchers, check to gather neighbourhood information, as ❖ Be ready to move – sounds simple, to resources where you can check out local out RealEstate Business Intelligence at well as details on the sales history of a par- but buyers have lost out on deals because schools. Even if you don’t have school-aged www.RBintel.com or the data supplied by ticular property, condo and association fee they weren’t ready. Worse yet, they may put children, it’s something to think about for George Mason University’s Center for Re- information, taxes, and lots more than just their “Earnest Money Deposit” at risk if they re-sale down the road or any kids you may gional Analysis at www.cra.gmu.edu. The the pretty pictures. www.realtor.com, can’t go through with a sale as contracted. be adding to the family. National Association of Realtors and the www.zillow.com, and www.trulia.com are ❖ Think about resale. This may sound For those buyers considering a condo or Northern Association of Realtors websites just a few to explore.

suites are pretty uncommon in this area, it’s a real draw for those who Nanny Suites Add Value really need one.”

Photo courtesy of Dietz Dev Having a nanny suite, particu- From Page 4 amenity,” said David DeSantis, larly one with high-end amenities, Partner and Managing Broker of can increase a property’s value. “I when considering nanny suites is TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. would say that they may make a that, unlike your kitchen or bath “Ideally these suites are somewhat difference in price from 5 to 10 or bedroom, the nanny suite will separated from the family sleeping percent as they … would count as only be a nanny suite for a finite quarters and have their own en- an additional bedroom,” said amount of time in your lives,” he trance so the nanny can come and Nancy Itteilag, of Long and Foster said. “As your children grow, the go freely.” Christie’s International Real Es- nanny will move on, and the A nanny suite can offer a good tate.

nanny suite is destined to become return on investment. “The fact elopment Ann Dozier Michael, an Alexan- something else.” that it could be used as a nanny dria-based associate broker with In the Washington, D.C. area, suite is a plus, but it’s the same sort McEnearney Associates, has a cur- adding an au pair suite to one’s of thing as an in-law suite. It offers rent listing that includes a nanny home can make a property more the ability for multigenerational liv- suite. “When you have a property appealing. “Particularly in neigh- ing with some level of privacy,” said listed that can serve the various borhoods with lots of young, af- David Howell, Executive Vice Presi- The materials and fixtures used in this nanny suite by needs of buyers, then that will add fluent families, nanny suites are dent and CIO of McEnearney As- Dietz Construction mimic those in the in the main part of value because you have a larger a popular, although not essential, sociates in McLean. “Because these the home. buying pool,” she said. 8 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 2016 Assessments by Area Fairfax County Also home values for members of REAL ESTATE Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

Hunter Mill Supervisor Cathy Hudgins (D) Dranesville Supervisor John Foust (D) 2015 — 2015 — 2016 — $674,430 2016 $2,788,330 5 69% 5 14%

Great Falls 0.72% 1,055,259

Reston McLean 1.03% 0.99% Herndon $428,378 $894,285 0.60% Vienna 2015 — $462,630 $475,057 1.85% $698,974 2016 — $478,490 3.43% Chantilly n 2.78% % $462 509 $694,10

Falls Churchh Fairfax 3.17% 22 entreville 1.28% 201 482,115 Annandale 201 1.89% $444,426

999 Springfie 2.79% $428,50 %

L 2015 2.39% 2016 $390,687 1.07%

2015 — $664,480 2016 — $677,950 2.03%

2016 — $587,370 Percent Change 0% 4% –

2016 Countywide average for all homes – $527,648 Single family-detached homes – $632,507, up 1.69 percent Townhouse/duplex properties – $392,951, up 2.05 percent Condominiums – $261,792, up 0.73 percent

ZIP CODE AREA 2015 MEAN 2016 MEAN PERCENT CHANGE 2.98% Alexandria/Mount Vernon 419,966 428,621 2.06 201 9,700 Annandale 436,194 444,426 1.89 201 Burke 438,919 447,099 1.86 Centreville 381,645 385,089 0.90 Chantilly 450,015 462,509 2.78 Clifton 648,374 659,408 1.70 Fairfax 476,037 482,115 1.28 Fairfax Station 643,207 647,290 0.63 The average assessed value of a Falls Church 434,062 447,822 3.17 Great Falls 1,047,755 1,055,259 0.72 Herndon 472,236 475,057 0.60 single family home in Fairfax County Lorton 381,572 390,687 2.39 McLean 885,556 894,285 0.99 for 2016 is $632,507, up 1.69 percent Oakton 685,967 694,101 1.19 Reston 424,021 428,378 1.03 Springfield 416,853 428,503 2.79 Vienna 686,293 698,974 1.85 SOURCE: Fairfax County for single family, townhouses and condominiums www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 ❖ 9 HomeLifeStyle Remodeled Home Tour Set for March 12 Home evolves from center hall colonial to open plan with boldly original finishes.

By John Byrd The Connection

dramatic “kitchen-centric” first floor interior design solution in Aa 30-year-old Colonial-style pro- duction house will be featured on a “Remodeled Home Tour” sponsored by Sun Design Remodeling on Saturday, March 12. The house at 7990 Oak Bridge Lane in Fairfax Station is owned by Andrew Smith and Madelynne McCarthy. The residence will be opened to the public from noon-4 p.m.

Purchased by Smith and McCarthy in Photos by Greg Hadley 2002, the original house was a traditional center hall Colonial with four bedrooms. The couple, now in their late 50s, have oc- cupied the home for 14 years. While the 4,000-square-foot house (the couple’s second) has been satisfactory to the owners in many respects, the first floor’s comparatively small rooms, narrow door- ways and builder-grade finishes had come Fairfax Station homeowners Andy Smith and Madelyne McCarthy relocated an adjacent dining room in order to seem dated and cramped as the couple to gain 78 feet for a gourmet kitchen that accommodates a large food prep island and a three-stool wine bar looked ahead to retirement years. a few steps from the back deck. The island surface is “blue flower” granite. “We wanted our house to be more of per- sonal residence that reflects our tastes,” which was too narrow. The kitchen clean- warmer interior that would work well for Andy Smith said. “A place we can really up area was too exposed from the family entertaining; we weren’t sure how to ac- Details enjoy for another 10 years, or more.” room. Overall, we wanted a more balanced, complish this.” Sun Design Remodeling will be sponsoring As longer occupancy became a consider- aesthetically-pleasing interior.” A seminar by Sun Design Remodeling last tour of a recently remodeled Fairfax Station home on March 12, 2016. Headquartered in ation, the production house limitations An addition off the back of house was an year unveiled to a new way of assessing Burke, the firm has a second office in McLean. seemed glaring. earlier space-enhancement consideration. priorities. Call 703-425-5588 or visit “The kitchen was space-constricted and “We had plans to remove the rear wall “The program prompted us to explore www.SunDesignInc.com. pretty drab,” Smith said. “There was a small and add 800 square feet,” Smith said, “but ideas of re-purposing space within the island with a cooktop that didn’t provide a when we looked more closely at our real home’s existing footprint,” Smith said. “I Soon after the seminar, the couple con- useful working surface. Doors to the hall requirements this approach didn’t make suddenly recognized we were getting al- tacted Craig Durosko at Sun Design Remod- closet and powder room frequently ob- economic sense. Fundamentally, we just most no use from our 200-square-foot for- eling for an on-premise meeting. structed traffic at the kitchen archway, wanted a larger kitchen and pantry, and a mal living room. It was just wasted space.” “A center hall Colonial has long been one of the most popular floor plans in northern Virginia” said Craig Durosko, Sun Design’s founder and chairman. “The way people now use their homes, however, has changed dramatically in the past few decades. There’s a movement towards open, well- defined, interactive spaces, and departure from interior walls that may not be strictly necessary.” Durosko sees his role as one of helping owners develop a plan tailored to how they want to use their home in the foreseeable future — one that will also present an ap- propriate interior design solution. Once Smith and McCarthy established that the front-facing living room could be incorporated into a broader floor plan With its coffered ceiling and Wedgwood interior treat- reconfiguration, Sun Design’s team began The bow front farm sink, six-burner stove and food ment, the dining room explores 18th century (Colonial- re-assigning “use zones” within the exist- prep island form the three sides of a work triangle era) themes. The circa-1890’s glass-and-wood barn ing first floor template. that facilitates cooking and clean-up tasks. The cus- door mounted on rollers was created by Sun Design. Several critical decisions followed in rapid tom-designed barn door (right) leads into the new The innovation provides privacy, yet allows light from formal dining room. the home’s west-facing rear elevation. See Remodeled, Next Page 10 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle Photos by Greg Hadley

The exposed brick, tile floor and raised square panel cabinet facings create a softly textured, elegant-but-casual interior. The floors conceal a radiant heating system which keeps the room comfortable in cooler temperatures. Remodeled Home Tour Set for March 12

From Previous flowing, an effect aided by improved dining room. While the interior makeover ing U-shaped counter completing useful Page sightlines. generally explores rustic, early American work triangles in several directions. succession: Simultaneously, a series of interior design sensibilities, a glass-and-wood barn door ❖ Six burner gas stove with hood. ❖ The wall between the kitchen and the conferences evolved into an inspired col- created to specification by Sun Design car- Designed in black mocha glazed wood, the dining room would be removed, extending laboration. penters is an iconic stand-out that keeps the distressed facing picks up several of the the kitchen by 78 square feet while allow- “In a finish work elaboration, the details dining room private as needed while allow- kitchen’s rustic themes, including the ex- ing generous square footage for a walk-in are everything,” Smith said, noting that his ing light from the west-facing rear windows; posed brick, and flagstone-accented tile pantry and a new powder room; enthusiasm for design extends from a life- ❖ A dining counter/wine bar situ- flooring which conceals a radiant heating ❖ The hall powder room would give way long interest in architecture. “Maddie and I ated at the back door accessing the system. to an enlarged and upgraded laundry room/ had done a lot of research into the kinds of deck. Equipped with a wine rack and wine ❖ Dining room with coffered ceil- mudroom linked to the garage and only materials, colors and textures we wanted, refrigerator for easy access to the rear deck, ing; Wedgwood interior design. In a accessible from inside the kitchen; but Katie Coram at Sun Design really helped the wine bar also obstructs sightlines from nod to the 18th-century (Colonial era) sen- ❖ All 200 square feet of the old living us narrow and refine our choices, assem- the family room to the kitchen sink, mak- sibilities, the new formal dining room’s el- room would be re-purposed as a distinc- bling the pieces into a coherent whole.” ing the fireside space a visually-independent egant wall elevations include raised pan- tively finished formal dining room accessed Some highlights of the makeover’s inte- entertainment zone. els, crown molding and wainscoting. directly from the new kitchen; rior design solution include: ❖ A food prep island and dining “From room to room, the new first floor ❖ With the cluster of doors between the ❖ A custom-designed barn door counter. Topped with blue flower granite explores a lot of style elements in well- bal- foyer and the kitchen relocated or replaced between the kitchen and the new and equipped with an under-cabinet micro- anced combinations,” Andy Smith said, “It’s with pocket doors, front-to-back access from wave and a warming drawer, the built-in is a much warmer, more inviting interior. the foyer is now unencumbered and free positioned for easy access to a circumscrib- People will enjoy seeing what we’ve done.”

John Byrd ([email protected]; www.HomeFrontsNews.com) has been writing about home improvement topics for 30 years.

Exposed brick, a cooktop hood and A wine rack and wine refrigerator glass-facing cabinets in distressed Relocating the hall powder room The home’s new rear footprint are convenient to a serving black mocha glaze are elements in added square footage needed for a accommodates walk-in pantry with counter convenient to the family the kitchen’s distinctively rustic laundry and mudroom that links to pull-out storage racks — as well as room and back deck. interior design. the garage. a larger powder room www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 ❖ 11 Spring is Here…and My Fresh New Listings are Popping!

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12 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com