Homelifestyle Page 2

HomeLifeStyle Page 2

U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wex- ton speaks at a women’s interfaith event.

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Pet-owning designers offer advice on practical Pet-Friendly Decor design choices that don’t sacrifice style. By Marilyn Campbell tions now for durable, stain resistant upholstery fabric that’s as elegant and taste- or pet owners, creating a home ful as its more traditional counterparts. décor that’s both aesthetically ap- Believe it or not, I finished a project for a Pet owners pealing and pet-friendly can be a client who had two giant labradoodles, and F should look delicate balance. From muddy her living room furniture is entirely of for stain- paw prints on an heirloom area rug to a Sunbrella fabric.” resistant and velvet sofa covered in cat hair, three local Other durable and easy to clean options durable designers — all of whom own pets — share that Evers recommends include leather and upholstery their best advice for addressing animal di- Crypton. “The only issue with leather is that fabrics when lemmas and styling a chic interior that ac- it will scratch easily if you have pets with creating a commodates both man and his best friend. sharp nails, but some people think scratched stylish and “There are so many ways that pets en- leather has character,” she said. “Crypton animal- hance our quality of life in the same way can withstand almost anything. If you have friendly that a serene, well-designed home might be a dog or cat that barfs a lot or has lots of interior. a sanctuary for relaxation after a long day,” accidents, Cyrpton is the way to go. It’s said Karen McBride of Inspired Spaces. “The stain-proof, tear-proof and comes in a wide good news is that you really don’t have to range of patterns and colors.” choose one or the other. The key is to make Built-in eating spaces and pet beds for her

Photo courtesy of the Nest Egg courtesy Photo sure everything is durable and easily two Bichon Frises are ways that personal cleaned.” the Fairfax home that she shares with her have pets. There so many ways that they home organizer Becca Anderson of The Flooring that can withstand paws with two Italian Greyhounds, Lola and Fiona. can be ruined and there are plenty of rugs Organized Life streamlines her pet spaces claws top the list of considerations for “My dogs are not housebroken, so I have to that don’t cost a lot, but have a high-end to maintain her home’s aesthetic. McBride. “Hardwood floors are beautiful, use indoor-outdoor rugs made of polypro- look to them.” “Pet owners love their animals, but no one but they’re easily scratched and dinged,” she pylene because I can just hose them down When choosing fabrics for furniture or wants their home to look and smell like it’s said. “Stone or ceramic tile flooring are ideal when they get dirty, which is often,” she throw pillows, pet owners should steer clear been overrun with animals,” she said. “I for pets owners. You can wipe up puddles said. “Rugs made from sisal are also good of textures like velvet or chenille, which can advised one of my clients to add a custom, and mop up muddy paw prints easily. Hard- choices if you have pets. I encourage my be magnets for pet hair, advises designer built-in litter box space to her laundry room wood requires immediate cleaning because pet-owning clients to purchase inexpensive and corgi owner, Tami Evers of The Simply for her three cats. they absorb liquids and odor.” rugs because if you have dogs or cats, rug Elegant Home. “You also want to avoid silk She even invested in a self-cleaning litter Rugs with patterns that can hide pet stains stains are inevitable. It’s just a waste of and other delicate fabrics that could tear box, and those two features were transfor- are what designer Rochelle Clark uses in money to invest in a high-end rug if you easily,” she said. “There are so many op- mative.” Please join us for our Remodeling Seminar The 3 keys to Remodeling a Kitchen or Bathroom Products, Process & Patience Seminar Saturday, April 6th 10-11a.m.

Give us 45 minutes of your time and learn about kitchen and bathroom remodeling!

RSVP now! Call store at 703-245-8950 or email [email protected] Or use the QR code below!

3856 South Dulles Ct, Suite K Chantilly, VA 20151 703-245-8950 www.reico.com

2 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News ‘The Wise Build Bridges, the Foolish Build Barriers’ Ahmadiyya Muslim women host interfaith dialogue.

By Bonnie Hobbs

n today’s divisive world, it often seems like the nation’s leaders don’t commu- Inicate well with each other. But the Photos by Bonnie Hobbs women who gathered Saturday, March 9, at the Mubarak Mosque in Chantilly had no such problem. In honor of Women’s History Month, the Women’s Association of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community hosted an interfaith dialogue. The topic was “Women in Public Ramona Carroll, interfaith coordi- Service: How Faith Inspires Nation Build- nator for Fairfax County govern- ing.” ment, was the moderator. Natalie Roisman Ananda Vrindavani This association, called Lajna Imaillah, raises awareness of the importance of India for 21 years. Her husband is Jewish, working with the most vulnerable in our believe that watching women and others women in society. Said the group’s spokes- their son was born in India and he’s marry- society. Compassion is the inspiration for whose voices have been limited, step for- woman, Bushra Mirza: “When we come to- ing a girl from London. “So where do I put social, faith-based engagement. Sometimes, ward, is a step toward deliverance.”’ gether, we have power in our voices.” On my loyalty?” she asked. “Nation- and peace- it’s one-on-one interaction to fill a need for, Attorney Natalie Roisman specializes in Saturday, the more than 120 attendees building is dependent on our daily, spiri- for example, food, shelter or companion- technology law and policy; but she’s also heard speakers espousing Hindu, Christian, tual practice.” ship. It’s meeting people exactly where they her firm’s director of social responsibility Jewish and Islamic perspectives, plus the Similarly, the Rev. Ellen LaCroix-Fillette, are, loving them and providing assistance and advocates for children and families. keynote speaker, U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wexton a pastor at Centreville United Methodist to them. Western Fairfax Christian Minis- Fighting against family detention at the (D-10). Church, said, “Our belief in God orders the tries is an example.” U.S./Mexico border, she said, “They’re all Ananda Vrindavani, temple president of way we live our individual lives and our LaCroix-Fillette said seeking justice is also our children.” the International Society of Krishna Con- lives together in community.” She also noted advocacy “to change cultural norms or so- On Saturday, Roisman represented the sciousness in Washington, D.C., spoke first. that “There’s a wide range of beliefs among cietal structures so people no longer feel in Jewish perspective. “I believe women are “In Hinduism, dharma is the essence of Christians, and not all denominations be- that place of social injustice.” According to the key to progress in our world,” she said. something, and the dharma of a living believe in women in pastoral service.” Confucius, she said, “Give a man a fish, and “They’ll be instrumental in elevating the ing – of a soul – is service,” she said. “When So, she said, “It fills me with so much hope you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, ways in which we talk to and about each we get beyond service to ourselves, we be- to see women in positions of authority and and you feed him for a lifetime.” But, she other, so the future generation doesn’t sink gin to grow.” in public service. Christian living is a bal- added, “It doesn’t help if that man has no as low in discourse as we see today.” She also mentioned bhakti, or service with ance between personal and social holiness. access to a pond.” She’s also on the council of a Jewish- love for the benefit of others. “A mother’s Our inward transformation leads to our So social justice is providing that access, Muslim bridge-building group, the Sister- love for her child is without expectation of outward expression of faith. Social holiness she said. “We are all equally valuable in the hood of Salaam Shalom. And last year, the anything in return – it’s pure,” said is where women find their voice and work eyes of God,” said LaCroix-Fillette. “So members traveled together to Montgomery, Vrindavani. “And when you serve that way, together in community. “We can boldly places without women’s voices are incom- Birmingham and Selma, Ala., to learn more you can have a real impact.” claim our place to engage in holy work, in plete. As a Christian, I’m called to usher in about America’s Civil Rights movement. Born and raised in Ireland, she taught in service to our community and world … God’s need for social justice. And I truly See The Wise, Page 8 ‘Despite Our Differences, We Are All Americans’ thank you for caring for your neighbors and Wexton addresses lifting up our community.” Too often, she said, “The Muslim commu- women’s faith and nity is the scapegoat of demagogues and others with dangerous rhetoric causing fear service event. and division. So threats and harassment of By Bonnie Hobbs Muslim Americans have surged. This type of rhetoric is inexcusable and has no place former prosecutor, advocate for in our society.” Aabused children and now a con- “We are one, American family. And when gresswoman, U.S. Rep. Jennifer one part of that family feels unwelcome or Wexton (D-10) was the keynote speaker at unsafe – when we lose sight of the fact that Saturday’s interfaith event about women, our diversity makes us stronger – it dimin-

faith and public service. ishes the greatness of America. Hatefulness Photo by Bonnie Hobbs Addressing the crowd at the Mubarak and bigotry in any form is contrary to our Mosque in Chantilly, she said, “Interfaith values. Despite our differences in race, faith events like this build community. A lot of or creed, we are all Americans.” people have never been to a mosque, but Wexton also noted how proud she is to they’re places of understanding. And this be serving with the first, two, Muslim mosque – just like any other place of wor- Americans elected to Congress. “Our di- ship – is a pillar of our local community.” verse, freshman class in the House is chang- Furthermore, said Wexton, “The Muslim ing history,” she said. Mentioning the di- community is part of the American commu- versity in her own house, too, Weston said From left: Ananda Vrindavani, Sahar Choudhary and Jennifer Wexton nity. Muslim Americans are Americans, so See Despite Our, Page 8 during the question-and-answer session at the end of the program. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 ❖ 3 Opinion Chantilly

A+ Primer for Our Neighborhoods www.ConnectionNewspapers.com @ChantillyConnec County Community Emergency Response Guide strengthens Newspaper of Chantilly Fair Oaks / Fair Lakes community, builds local resiliency, and mitigates potential risks. A Connection Newspaper By John C. Cook That’s why I am so thrilled that Fairfax Everything is laid out in this step-by-step guide, An independent, locally owned weekly Braddock District County has published its first ever Community including how to organize an emergency team, newspaper delivered Supervisor (R) Emergency Response Guide from the Office of creating a family emergency kit, and adding to homes and businesses. Emergency Management. The publication of disabled residents to a functional needs regis- Published by ur Fairfax this document, and the plan behind it, fulfills try. It even lists the most likely emergencies Local Media Connection LLC County a goal of mine that even predates my election and explains how to prepare for, respond to, 1606 King Street O govern- to the board. When I served as president of and recover from them. Users can also find Alexandria, Virginia 22314 ment is the Kings Park Civic Association I recognized information on local volunteer groups who can well prepared to deal with the great need for a citizen-focused emergency assist in these emergencies, such as the Com- Free digital edition delivered to emergencies, both large and small, from large planning tool. munity Emergency Response Team (CERT). By your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe storms to disease outbreaks to criminal and As a supervisor I have pushed for this pro- filling out the Community Emergency Response even terrorist events. But our communities are gram for years. Now the Office of Emergency Guide will give you a never-before-seen view not so prepared. In the first 72 hours after a Management made this idea a reality. The end of your own neighborhood. NEWS DEPARTMENT: major emergency event, governmental services result is a comprehensive planning tool that You can find the Community Emergency [email protected] may not be available. will strengthen community, build local resil- Response Guide online at https:// Steven Mauren Commentary Power may be out, trans- iency, and mitigate potential risks. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Editor, 703-778-9415 portation blocked, medical Community coordination is needed in mak- emergencymanagement/cerg. The Office of [email protected] services overwhelmed, and ing a successful community emergency plan. Emergency Management offers community food, gas, and even money difficult to find. It requires citizens to take initiative, reach out workshops to those who would like extra help Jean Card In those first few days, communities would to their peers, and work together to identify in creating their emergency response plan. The Production Editor [email protected] need to come together so neighbors can help local risks and assets. The Community Emer- request form can be found on the Office of each other. And even during those lesser emergency Response Guide breaks down emergency Emergency Management website. Bonnie Hobbs gency events which occur with some regular- planning into easy-to-follow steps. These in- I encourage all residents to work within their Community Reporter, 703-778-9415 ity — snowstorms, serious thunderstorms, and cluding defining your area, recruiting leaders, particular communities to create an emergency [email protected] the like — neighbors need to help each other knowing your area, building an emergency response program appropriate for your neigh- Andrea Worker out. response team, and planning your approach. borhood. We are here to help. Contributing Writer Sully Scouts Compete in Derby and Bakeoff [email protected] ADVERTISING: ore than 100 Cub For advertising information [email protected] Scouts gathered for M 703-778-9431 the annual Sully Dis- trict Pinewood Derby Champion- Debbie Funk ship Races on Sunday, March 3 at National Sales St. Timothy Catholic School’s caf- 703-778-9444 [email protected] eteria. Races were held by rank first and then the top three finish- David Griffin ers in each rank went on to race Marketing Assistant in the “Finals” of the Sully District 703-778-9431

Photo by Hondo Da Pinewood Derby. [email protected] Winners were: LION - First Place Classified & Employment - Abel C., Pack 1459, Second Place Advertising - Ethan I., Pack 1859, Third Place 703-778-9431 - Aaron R., Pack 1863; TIGER - First Place - Matthew F., Pack 146, Editor & Publisher Second Place - Edward L., Pack vids Mary Kimm 1860, Third Place - Michael S., [email protected] Pack 1459; WOLF - First Place - @MaryKimm The first, second, and third place finishers of their respective ranks of the 2019 Sully Seth Z., Pack 127, Second Place - District Pinewood Derby. Carson L., Pack 1859, Third Place Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon - Dante F., Pack 1459; BEAR - First - Edward L., Pack 1860, and Third 703-549-0004 Place - Hadrian A., Pack 146, Sec- Place - James K., Pack 1459; Pies [email protected] ond Place - Michael R., Pack 1860, winners were First Place - Dominik Third Place - Brendan P., Pack 146; C., Pack 146, Second Place - James Editor in Chief WEBELOS - First Place - Ben M., W., Pack 1862, Third Place - Bryan Steven Mauren Managing Editor Pack 1860, Second Place - Jacob A., Pack 1859: Breads Winners Photo Contributed Kemal Kurspahic S., Pack 1459, Third Place - were First Place - Ethan M., Pack Art/Design: Michael M., Pack 1514; and AR- 1860, Second Place - Scott P., Pack Laurence Foong, John Heinly, ROW OF LIGHT - First Place - Evan 146, Third Place - Oliver V., Pack Ali Khaligh L., Pack 1860, Second Place - 1859; Cakes winners were First Production Manager: Geovani Flores Hayden B., Pack 127, Third Place Place - Ethan H., Pack 1860, Sec- - Zaid K., Pack 127 ond Place - James A., Pack 1860, This year, the 2019 Bakeoff had Third Place - Ben W., Pack 1459. CIRCULATION a record 42 entries. The catego- Decorative / Creative winners 2019 Overall Pinewood Derby Winners (from left): Third [email protected] ries were Cookies, Pies, Breads, were First Place Audrey S., Pack Place Overall Finisher - Ben M., Pack 1860; Second Place Cakes, and Decorative / Creative. 1860, Second Place - Michael R., Overall Finisher Zaid K., Pack 127, and First Place Overall A Connection Newspaper Cookies winners were First Place Pack 1860, Third Place - Adrian B., Finisher - Hadrian A., Pack 146, with 2019 Sully District - Colin S., Pack 1459, Second Place Pack 1459. Pinewood Derby Chairman R “Hondo” Davids. 4 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Students Who Work for Peace Honored By Andrea Worker Swanson, a 1987 graduate of Herndon High School who identi- t’s not easy to be the peace fies as a “world citizen,” presented maker. Sometimes it is really his argument of “no justification Ihard, especially when you for war, ever,” while admitting that make those around you, his remarks could make his audi- even friends, angry when you ences uncomfortable, but asserted speak out and stand up for what that they were words that need to is right. And sometimes it can be be said and a conversation that dangerous. But in all instances, needs to happen. being the peacemaker “requires The Fairfax Student Peace courage and commitment,” U.S. Awards started in 2006 as one

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11) told school, Herndon High School, and Photos by Andrea Worker the crowd gathered at the one sponsor, the Herndon Friends Sherwood Community Center in Meeting, but has grown to 19 Fairfax on Sunday, March 9. sponsors and is now offered to Connolly, along with a host of every public high school in Fairfax sponsors, elected officials and a County, as well as two private cheering collection of family and schools. friends, had come together to The goal of the program is to honor the 23 young recipients of encourage young people to think the 2019 Student Fairfax Peace more about peace “both as a Awards at a ceremony led by Mar- means and as an end” and to rec- Romina Soleimani (fourth from left) started her work for peace when she was still garet Fisher of program-founder ognize their achievements when living in her home country of Iran, then in Turkey and now the Mountain View High Herndon Friends Meeting. they turn those peace-making School student continues her commitment to being an agent of peace In addition to garnering kudos thoughts into actions in their from the congressman, state Del. schools, their communities, and Ken Plum (D-36), Fairfax County even around the world. Supervisor Penny Gross (Mason The program is open to area District), Scott Brabrand, Fairfax high school juniors and seniors. In County Public Schools superinten- October, each school is invited to dent, and Karen Corbett Sanders, choose either an individual or a Mount Vernon District representa- group recipient with the guidelines tive and vice chair of the FCPS that the students have worked board also officially offered their “specifically for peace or to iden- congratulations and admiration tify and resolve conflicts … dem- for the young activists. onstrating commitment to peace Ryan McElveen and Ilryong by engaging in activities that strive Moon, members-at-large of the to end conflict … seeking to bridge FCPS board, and Tamara Denerak language, ethnic, racial, religious, Kaufax, FCPS board Lee District gender, sexual orientation, or class representative were also on hand differences … and/or assist to re- to show their support. solve conflicts among students or members of the community who THE EVENT’S KEYNOTE feel isolated or alienated.” SPEAKER was David Swanson, an author, activist, journalist, ra- THE WINNERS received certifi- dio host and co-founder and direc- cates of achievement, a monetary A senior at Centreville High School, Deepika Joshi (fourth from left) was born in tor of World Beyond War, a “glo- gift and an additional $100 to be Nepal. She is the founder of her school’s chapter of Students Together Assisting bal nonviolent movement to end donated to any nonprofit organi- Refugees - STAR. war and establish a just and sus- zation of the student’s choice that tainable peace.” operates in a spirit that is in keep- ing with the Peace Awards and this year, an autographed copy of the book, “Sweet Fruits From The Bit- ter Tree” by Mark Andreas, stories of “creative and compassionate ways out of conflict.”

HOW LOCAL RECIPIENTS WORK FOR PEACE Four local students from Centreville and Chantilly were honored as recipients of the 2019 Yahang “Annie” Wang has Peace Awards. faced discrimination as an ❖ Romina Soleimani from immigrant from China. She Mountain View High School is determined to help started her peace work in her others feel more welcomed home country of Iran, where she and assimilate more easily. worked with Youth Spiritual Em- She delighted the reception Maxihikio “Makee” Neeves (fourth from left) became an instant minority when he powerment, a global Bahá’í-in- crowd with a performance switched schools from one in Colorado to Westfield, where he is a junior, but he is spired program which encourages of one of her own Rap-style making his experience a learning one for himself and his peers, bringing a better musical creations. See How Local, Page 8 understanding of Native Americans and indigenous people. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 ❖ 5 Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- ‘Fifty Shades endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged. of Green’ Founded in 2016, Nova THURSDAY/MARCH 14 Plein Air Artists (NPAA) has Pi Day. 3:14-5 p.m. at Sully Historic evolved into a creative, educa- Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, tional and social network of Chantilly. Celebrate Pi Day at Sully local artists committed to Historic Site. Join a gathering of painting weekly at organized celebrants who understand that Pi is “paint-outs.” Shades of Green a number that goes on forever. Real showcases artwork from 11 pie may not go on forever, but it does active, local artists. The ex- have a very long history as a classic hibit runs through April 15 at food made at Sully in the 1800s. Visit the Caton Merchant Family their 1794 kitchen and see Gallery, 9419 Battle St., interpreters bake traditional recipes Manassas. A reception is over an open-hearth fire, and sample planned for Saturday, March a piece as you learn about this 23, 6-8 p.m. Visit center-for- historically delicious food. The the-arts.org or call program cost is $3.14. Walk-in only; 703-330-2787. registration not required. Call 703- 437-1794 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully- Tranquility by Rachel historic-site. Garcia Palmer

SATURDAY/MARCH 16 16 and older, $4; 5-15, $2; 4 and St. Patrick’s Day / St. Joseph’s under, free. Visit www.fairfax- Day Party. 6-9:30 p.m. at St. station.org, www.facebook.com/ MONDAY/MARCH 18 Veronica’s Church parish hall, 3460 FFXSRR, or call 703-425-9225. Centreville Garden Club. 7-9 p.m. at Centreville Road, Chantilly. This is a Green Campfire Adventure. 5:30- Sully Government Center, 4900 family event that includes food, 6:30 p.m. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly. Guest drink, sing-alongs, Irish dancers and Park, 5040 Walney Road, Chantilly. speaker will discuss the Growing and plenty of smiling Irish eyes. Adults Slip into something green for the Care of Hydrangeas at our monthly $8, Children $6, drinks extra. Visit “Wear Green Campfire” and help find meeting. Group meets every third www.stveronica.net/ or call 703-773- all things wearing green in the Monday. Come out and join other 2000. meadow. After exploring, return to a gardeners. Free. Email campfire to toast marshmallows. [email protected] or SUNDAY/MARCH 17 Program is designed for participants visit age 4- adult. $8 per person, and centrevillegardenclub.blogspot.com NTRAK Scale Model Train Show. 1- children must be accompanied by a for more. 4 p.m. at the Fairfax Station Railroad registered adult. Meet at Cabell’s Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station Mill. Call 703-631-0013 or visit Road, Fairfax Station. The Northern www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ TUESDAY/MARCH 19 Virginia NTRAK members will hold a eclawrence. Live Music: Ryanhood. 7:15 p.m. at N gauge Model Train Display. Ages

6 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment Talk About

Amphora’s Diner Deluxe, 1151 Elden St., Herndon. Wishful Thinking Acoustic duo Ryanhood got their first break more than a decade ago as street performers at Boston’s Quincy Market. Ryanhood is on tour By KENNETH B. LOURIE promoting their latest album, Early Best. Suggested donation is $10 for members of the Every morning, at the very least, I look into the Folk Club of Reston/Herndon and $11 for non- bathroom mirror to brush my teeth and shave my stub- members. Visit www.restonherndonfolkclub.com ble. And there, right below my Adam’s apple, in plain for more. site, is the tumor we’re attempting to stabilize, and in a perfect scenario: shrink. THURSDAY/MARCH 21 As I’ve said many times before during my 10 years of treatment: “I can live with ‘stable,’” and/or “Stable Weekend Food for Kids. 10-11:30 a.m. at PZT`UL^MH]VYP[L^VYK¹)\[[OLVUS`^H`0ÄUK Dominion Energy, 3072 Centreville Road, Chantilly. Assistance League of Northern out if my lung cancer tumors are stable/have shrunk/ Virginia, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, grown is when my oncologist tells me/I read the invites community members to help pack food radiologist’s report. for its Weekend Food for Kids program. This During this quarterly interval between scans, I’m critical program provides nonperishable food like Sergeant Schultz from “Hogan’s Heroes: “I see over the weekend to children who receive free nothing.” The tumors in my lungs are “like weeds,” or reduced-price meals during the school year at (meaning they’re everywhere), said my oncologist at Title I schools in Fairfax and Prince William the initial Team Lourie meeting in response to one Counties and the City of Alexandria. May arrive at 9:30 to help with setup. Free. Visit of my wife, Dina’s, questions about whether surgery www.alnv.org. was an option; “no” was that answer. But obviously, I can’t see them and what feelings I’ve experienced in my mediastinum have likely been scar tissue forming SATURDAY/MARCH 23 (according to my oncologist) and not indicative of too Friends of the Fairfax Station. 11 a.m. at the much too often. Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax So, I’ve learned to not overreact to any discomfort I Station Road, Fairfax Station. Richard Slattery, might experience. It might mean something or it might Senior Director of Policy and Research of the National Railroad Passenger Corp. (AMTRAK) mean nothing. I’ve been to both places already. will discuss the current state and future However, the “Adam’s apple” tumor is front and prospects of passenger rail services in the U.S. center. When I brush my teeth, I see it. When I shave I Slattery’s presentation will take place as the have to nearly shave over it. It’s impossible to miss. It’s keynote speaker following the annual not exactly a goiter but it’s more than a lump. membership meeting of the Friends of the It’s not painful, but it’s completely opposite to the Fairfax Station. The meeting and the Forum are tumors in my lungs; they’re out of sight and because free and open to the public. Light refreshments of that, occasionally out of mind. The “Adam’s apple” will be available. Visit www.fairfax-station.org tumor is totally in sight and because of that, is always or call 703-425-9225. Reception: “Fifty Shades of Green.” 6-8 p.m. VUT`TPUK0[»ZOV^0Z[HY[T`KH`HUKOV^0ÄUPZO at the Caton Merchant Family Gallery, 9419 my evening. And in the hours between, I’m touching Battle St., Manassas. Founded in 2016, Nova my throat to feel what I can feel and hope what I can Plein Air Artists (NPAA) was initiated due to a hope. The effect is I’m reinforcing a negative every shared desire to explore the idea of painting time I touch the tumor. outdoors. Since then, NPAA has evolved into a If I can’t see the tumor (like the ones in my lungs), creative, educational and social network of local and I can’t touch the tumors (like I can the “Adam’s artists committed to painting weekly at apple” tumor), I can delude myself more easily into organized “paint-outs.” Shades of Green showcases artwork from 11 active, local artists. not thinking/remembering I even have cancer; and Visit center-for-the-arts.org or call 703-330- more importantly, not thinking that I’m “terminal” as 2787. my oncologist characterized me all those years ago when he gave me a “13 month to two year” prognosis – on Feb. 27, 2009. Then I can pretend to live life as if SUNDAY/MARCH 24 the Sword of Damocles is not hanging over my head. Spring Make ‘n Take Activity. 1-4 p.m. at the But, being able to touch the very thing that might Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax be shortening my life makes it more real than it’s Station Road, Fairfax Station. Make tissue paper flowers to welcome spring. Ages 16 and older, ever been. And it’s that reality that is making Kenny a $4; 5-15, $2; 4 and under, free. Visit very dull boy (no comments from the peanut gallery, www.fairfax-station.org, www.facebook.com/ please?). FFXSRR, or call 703-425-9225. 0»SSRUV^ZVTL[OPUNKLÄUP[P]LVU4HYJO Ä]L Live Music: Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike. 7 KH`ZHM[LYT`4HYJO*;ZJHU[OLÄYZ[ZJHU0^PSS p.m. (doors open at 6) at Frying Pan Farm Park have had since I began the immunotherapy. That’s Visitor Center, 2739 West Ox Road, Herndon. when we’ll have our usual post-scan appointment Make plans to “hitch up the team” and head to with my oncologist to learn results and discuss alter- Frying Pan Farm Park this season for Bluegrass Barn. Food and beverages available for natives, if necessary. purchase. $18 in advance, $20 at the door. Surgery, as we’ve inquired about previously is out Purchase tickets online at of the question. Therefore, we’ll either continue to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/frying-pan-park/ do what we’ve been doing, or start doing something bluegrass-barn or by phone at 703-222-4664 or we’ve never done before (you have to keep the cancer 703-437-9101. guessing). On my most recent appointment, when asked SATURDAY/MARCH 30 by yours truly, my oncologist said we have lots of NoVaTEEN Book Festival. 9:30 a.m. at Marshall non-surgical options should change be warrant- High School, 7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. ed. (There was a time in the past when I asked my The NoVaTEEN Book Festival is back with a day oncologist a similar question and he was not nearly full of panels, games, and signings with over 30 so encouraging. In fact, he was downright discourag- bestselling and emerging Young Adult authors. ing when he told me that the drug he was giving me Learn more on the official festival website. The at the time was the last drug he had for me.) Having event is free and open to to the public; tickets been dangling previously at a near end, I’m sure you and a full schedule are available at can appreciate how a patient knowing there are other novateenbookfestival.com. choices available should a drug fail to stop the growth, Lecture: The Power of Objects. 1 p.m. at Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly. is very reassuring. Come for a discussion with Dr. Jennifer Van Nevertheless, facing off with this tumor every day Horn on her book, “The Power of Objects in and being able to touch it morning, noon and night, Eighteenth-Century British America.” In the presents a real problem: how do I avoid thinking I book, Van Horn investigates Anglo-American have cancer? items to discover the importance of objects in It’s always been my goal to try and assimilate the the formation of a new society. Light facts and hope not to be overwhelmed by the feelings. refreshments will be available before and after But how do I think it’s nothing when it’s obviously the presentation. This talk is sponsored by the Sully Foundation, Ltd., and donations will be something? gratefully accepted. Space is limited, so please I mean, it wouldn’t be there if it was just minding reserve a seat by March 14. For reservations or its own business, would it? for more information, call 703-437-1794 or visit Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully-historic- The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. site/. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 ❖ 7 News ‘The Wise Build Bridges, the Foolish Build Barriers’ From Page 3 crawl. But whatever you do, just keep mov- how they improved society in areas includ- Much can be accomplished, said Roisman, ing forward.” ing math, science and education. by “ordinary people doing extraordinary Presenting the Islamic perspective was “Muslim women are still involved in lead- things.” She belongs to two groups encour- Sahar Choudhary, regional president of the ership and politics, and some are even Nobel aging women to run for political office or Women’s Association of the Ahmadiyya Prize winners,” said Choudhary. “But they just become involved in the political pro- Muslim Community. wouldn’t have gotten where they are if their cess. Quoting Supreme Court Justice Ruth Born in Pakistan, she has a degree in Con- faith was an obstacle to them.” She also Bader Ginsburg, she said, “Women belong flict Analysis and Resolution from GMU. She called mothers nation-builders because they in all places where decisions are being said Islam means faith and submission to raise children who grow up to be leaders made.” God and to work for the betterment of hu- and to excel in their fields. “They share the Roisman said women can engage in the manity. values they received from their mothers,”

world in many ways. “Just do it – jump in,” Photo by Bonnie Hobbs “The Holy Quran is my code of conduct, she said. “So the role women play in na- she urged. “You don’t have to have experi- telling us, ‘Do not forget to do good for each tion-building starts at home.” ence. If you believe something has to other,’” said Choudhary. “Service of man- “When we teach the values of love, shar- change, just do it.” She also referenced two kind is the essence of Islam, and an Islamic ing and service of mankind – blind to color, quotes from the movie, “Black Panther.” community that doesn’t believe this way religion, culture, etc. – we do a great ser- They are: “We will work to be an example isn’t truly Islamic. So I try to be an agent vice to others,” continued Choudhary. of how we, as brothers and sisters on this for good.” “Mothers sharing their skills, volunteering earth, should treat each other;” and “In She said women “need to become empow- in schools, beautifying their communities times of crisis, the wise build bridges while ered to become the change agents, and my and helping the most vulnerable is public the foolish build barriers.” The Rev. Ellen LaCroix-Fillette, a faith empowers me with the rights to do service. Finally, quoting Martin Luther King Jr., Centreville United Methodist this.” Stressing that there have been great And despite our minor religious and cul- she said, “If you can’t fly, then run; if you Church pastor, speaks at a Muslim women trailblazers throughout his- tural differences, we’re all here today be- can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then women’s interfaith event. tory, she mentioned some of them and told cause we care about service to others.” ‘Despite Our Differences, We Are All Americans’ From Page 3 women who advocate passionately for is- U.S. Rep. and former Civil Rights leader ering on Saturday, “There are always chal- she was raised Catholic, her husband is Jew- sues they believe in. John Lewis. It was there that, on March 7, lenges – but our faith in ourselves, our com- ish and they celebrate both Christmas and “You don’t have to run for office to make 1965, some 600 Civil Rights marchers were munity and our future will get us through.” Hanukkah. a difference,” she said. “An example is the brutally attacked by state and local lawmen Then, summing up the event’s message “I find faith in other women – the trail- group, Moms Who Demand Action for Gun and driven back to Selma, where they’d was Akavish Khan, president of the blazers who paved the way for me and oth- Sense. Just last year, the House of Repre- begun. Women’s Association of the Ahmadiyya ers to run for office,” she said. “But progress sentatives passed a background-check law, “John Lewis told me how faith got women Muslim Community, which hosted the pro- is not inevitable, and we’re still fighting for and that’s an example of how women in through their toughest times,” said Wexton. gram. “Our motto is ‘Love for all and ha- things including reproductive freedom and action can make an impact.” “He said the Civil Rights movement was tred for none,’” she said. “Helping others paycheck equality.” She, too, went to Alabama in 2018, and born in black churches, and people’s faith and serving people in need are antidotes to Also important, said Wexton, are all the stood on the Edmund Pettus Bridge with gave them strength.” So, she told the gath- injustice.” How Local Students Work for Peace in Their Schools From Page 5 bers to help refugees overcome the hurdles the beauty of the English language and He came to Westfield a year ago, from a youth to grow spiritually, develop a strong which often cause them emotional, mental helped her to express herself by writing lyr- school in Colorado where he was one of sense of purpose, and engage in meaning- and physical distress. Together they ics. She performed one of her compositions several Native American students. He ful social action. When forced to leave Iran fundraise for the UN Refugee Agency, col- at the Virginia Girls State Conference on turned the experience of suddenly becom- because of her beliefs, she continued her lect clothing for refugees in Bosnia and female empowerment and the inequalities ing a minority into an opportunity to learn peace work in Turkey, sometimes meeting Syria, and write letters of support and en- women face in society. and to help others learn, as well. Organiz- in parks. She and her mother then moved couragement to Lebanese children. She has been on the FCPS Student Advi- ing the Indigenous Student Union, he and to the U.S., having been granted asylum as “If I can inspire just one person,” she said, sory Council for the past two years. “I have others now prepare displays for Westfield religious refugees. Romina again became a “then that person may inspire another. At been able to advocate for fellow immi- Culture Night and other events. leader in the Youth Spiritual Empowerment the end, this will allow us to forget what grants, inspire low-income families and help Upcoming plans include a Q&A Student/ Program and hopes to continue her work separates us and to focus on what binds us empower young women.” She feels com- Community evening about indigenous while in college. together.” pelled as a first-generation immigrant to people, a coat drive for native youth in need ❖ Deepika Joshi, a senior at Centreville ❖ Yahang “Annie” Wang, a senior at “give back to the community that’s helped a field trip to the National Museum of the High School was born in Nepal and entered Chantilly High School, immigrated to the me thrive in my times of need.” American Indian, and more. U.S. schools in the fifth grade. She is the U.S. from China 10 years ago. She and her ❖ Maxihikio (Makee) Neeves, a Westfield founder and president of her school’s chap- family faced discrimination due to the lan- High School junior, is a member of the Citi- — Andrea Worker ter of STAR – Students Together Assisting guage barrier, but Annie says that her dis- zen Potawatomi Nation and a descendant Read more about the Peace Awards and the recipi- Refugees. So far, she has recruited 35 mem- covery of rap music helped her appreciate from other tribes. ents at www.fairfax.studentpeaceawards.org. Bulletin Board

certified copy of the child’s birth Elementary office or online at school at 703-814-8700 to make a paperwork for rising Kindergarteners. KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION certificate, parent/guardian photo ID, www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/ registration appointment. Visit greenbriareastes.fcps.edu to Children who will be 5 years old on or and any custody orders. Certificate of media/forms/enroll_0.pdf. Call 703- ❖ Colin Powell Elementary School make an appointment or call the before Sept. 30, 2019, are eligible to physical exam and immunization will 322-8500 or email [email protected] in Centreville will conduct their school office at 703-633-6400. The attend kindergarten. Find the correct be required before the student may to make an appointment to bring Kindergarten registration on Friday, Kindergartener information session is neighborhood school by entering start school, but is not required for completed registration forms and April 5, 9 a.m.-noon; parents may scheduled for Friday, April 5 from your address at boundary.fcps.edu/ registration. Learn more at supporting documentation to school. also call 571-522-6008 to schedule 10-11 a.m. boundary/. Complete a packet of www.fcps.edu/registration/general- Kindergarten Orientation will take an appointment. Due to the time ❖ Greenbriar West Elementary registration forms found at registration-requirements. place on Monday, April 1, 4-5 p.m. required to register a child, they School is now accepting information www.fcps.edu/it/forms/enroll.pdf or ❖ Union Mill Elementary is currently ❖ Brookfield Elementary School request that only parents come to for next year’s Kindergarten classes. in the school office. Gather registering new students for the will host a kindergarten registration school for registration. Families within the school’s supporting documents: proof of 2019-20 school year. Find for the 2019-2020 school year on ❖ Greenbriar East Elementary boundaries should call the school residence in the school boundary, a registration forms in the Union Mill Friday, April 5, 2019. Contact the School is now accepting registration office at 703-633-6700.

8 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com