HomeLifeStyle Page 7

Jamie Lane, Princi- pal of , presents the Faculty Award to Shannen Prindle at graduation. It recog- nizes a senior who has gone above and beyond, selflessly contributing to the community.

Oakton High Celebrates 50th Commencement News, Page 3

Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, 10 Classifieds, Next Theatrical Generation Takes the Stage

News, Pages 12

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U.S. Postage U.S. Sports, Page 9 STD PRSRT Photo by Susan Silva Photo June 13-19, 2018 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com News

John Horejsi with Gov. Ralph Northam at the bill signing ceremony.

Photo contributed Governor Signs the Bill Against ‘Lunch Shaming’ John Horejsi, Social Action Linking To- first, specially the most vulnerable. In re- gether (SALT) Coordinator, and Delegate cent years, parents and families have be- Patrick Hope were invited and were present come increasingly concerned with “lunch last Monday as Governor Northam signed shaming,” or how schools penalize children into law HB 50, the SALT Anti-School Lunch for their unpaid lunch debt. This spring, the Shaming Bill that passed the House and issue reached the General Assembly of Vir- Senate unanimously. The signing took place ginia, which passed HB 50 that the gover- in the Governor’s Capitol Conference Room nor signed prohibiting school penalization on the Third Floor of the Capitol. SALT ap- of students with lunch debt. The bill also preciates the support of all the advocates requires that notification of lunch debt be and of all the Legislators that put aside party communicated directly to parents or guard- affiliations and put all the kids in ians, not to the students.

2 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection Sports Editor Rich Sanders News 703-224-3031 or [email protected]

From left, Seniors Mary Catherine Pollin, Caitlin Carlton, Jarek Photos by Mercia Hobson/The Connection Campbell, Tagwa Shammet, Summer Hogan, and Amanda Good are Students of the Oakton High School Class of 2018 gather on the steps joined by teacher Brandon McCulla (center) before Graduation 2018, outside EagleBank Arena before their Com- Oakton High School Fiftieth Commencement Exercises held June 8 at mencement Exercises on June 8. George Mason University EagleBank Arena. Oakton Holds 50th Commencement Class of 2018 says goodbye to the burgundy and gold.

By Mercia Hobson The Connection

akton High School celebrated their graduating Class of O2018 as it has done for the 49 graduating classes before it, with tradition, pride and words of encour- agement. At the George Mason University EagleBank Arena on the morning of Friday, June 8, the Oakton High School Band be- Ishika Jain, 18 of Oakton, helps gan to play “Pomp and Circumstance,” sig- Lindsey Katsaros, 18 of Oak Hill, nifying the start of the school’s Fiftieth Com- make a final gown adjustment mencement Exercises. before the Graduation 2018 Family and friends rose from their sta- Oakton High School Ceremony Graduates Orah Smith, 17 of Jarek Campbell, 18, of Oakton, dium seats to honor the school’s Class of on June 8. Fairfax, and Tagwa Shammet, 17 delivers the Reflections during the 2018 as they entered for their graduation of Fairfax, introduce Jamie S. Graduation 2018 Oakton High ceremony. While family and friends scanned pal of Oakton High School. Lane, Principal of Oakton High School Ceremonies at George the incoming procession searching for their Moving to the podium, Lane announced School at Graduation 2018 Mason University EagleBank Arena. special loved ones now lost in a sea of bur- the recipient of the 2018 Faculty Award, Oakton High School Fiftieth gundy gowns and caps, when they spotted Shannen Kelly Prindle, noting her achieve- Commencement Exercises. you realize a faculty member made a dif- them at last, many happily shouted out the ments as a scholar and a student who self- ference in your life, let them know.” students’ names and waved vigorously. lessly served the community and possessed nity for our generation — for our class of Parker Waters, President of the Class of great character and integrity. 2018 — together, we will make a change.” REACHED FOR COMMENT after the 2018 and Summer Hogan, Student Govern- Jarek Campbell was the Reflections Gabriel Jarred, Executive Officer Class of ceremony, Jamie S. Lane Principal Oakton ment Executive Officer officially opened the Speaker. He told how time does not stand 2018, announced the Class of 2018’s gift, a High School wrote these words and shared graduation ceremony with the welcome still, and change is inevitable. “We can’t new school banner and new microwaves for them in an online interview: “Congratula- address. Waters spoke about how so many control it, stop it, or speed it up.” Speaking student use. tions to each member of the 2018 graduat- people, family, teachers, counselors, and altruistically and describing how the Class Daniel Meier former Interim Principal ing class and their families. I am truly thank- more had prepared the graduating class for of 2018 had matured over the last four served as the guest speaker at the gradua- ful to have the chance to be part of both this day. years, Campbell said, “In March, we became tion ceremony. Counseling the graduating the present and the future at Oakton High “Thank you for dealing with us and help- part of something bigger than ourselves class, Meier challenged them to do some- School. To our graduates, I would encour- ing us get to this point,” Waters said. “Cel- during our School Walkout,” (referencing thing they love; be positive; and care for age you to follow your passion and continue ebrate this important day. Reflect on the the National School Walkout in a call on to others. “The worst feeling is to get up to do to believe in yourselves. You have already memories...Feel proud,” added Hogan. pass stricter gun control laws). Campbell something you hate. … Be positive; you will made a positive difference in our commu- Next, Tagwa Shammet and Orah Smith cautioned not to let change happen, but have struggles … Take care of people; take nity and among your peers. The future is introduced Jamie S. Lane, the new Princi- make it happen. “With so much opportu- care of each other … and [later in life] when an amazing place...” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 ❖ 3 Opinion Vienna & Oakton

Medicaid Expansion Will Save Lives www.ConnectionNewspapers.com An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered “As fewer and fewer people have employer- to homes and businesses. Almost too many benefits to count that will help paid health coverage for themselves, much less Published by their families, elections have consequences that Local Media Connection LLC all Virginians, including economic stimulus. can mean the difference between life and death,” said Jaime Contreras, a vice president 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 he benefits are huge. will be eligible. Hundreds of thousands of at 32BJ SEIU. The Virginia General Assembly, people across the state will gain access. “The budget’s inclusion of a bipartisan com- Free digital edition delivered to finally motivated by the huge Virginia has bypassed about $10 billion by promise plan to drawdown available federal your email box. Go to T connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe change in the House of Delegates not having expanded Medicaid since it was funds to help hundreds of thousands of hard- wrought by energized voters last November, possible. It’s not perfect, but now it is done. working, uninsured Virginians gain health care passed a budget that included expanding Med- “Health care is not a privilege: It is a right,” coverage will promote public health improve- NEWS DEPARTMENT: icaid under the Affordable Care Act. said state Sen. Dick Saslaw, highlighting the ments, job growth, economic vitality, and [email protected] A celebratory press release goes out any time importance. “A lot of us here have had a lot of strengthen our health delivery system,” said 10 or more jobs come to any place in Virginia. breaks in our lives, but there are many others Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association Kemal Kurspahic ❖ But estimates are that finally accepting the out there who do not get these breaks. They President and CEO Sean T. Connaughton. Editor 703-778-9414 [email protected] available federal money to expand Medicaid work hard, but for one reason or another things “We are especially thrilled that some 7,000 under the Affordable Care Act could stimulate don’t turn out right for them. These people Arlingtonians now will have healthcare cover- Andrea Worker the creation of 30,000 jobs. need our help, and we have done that.” age — this legislative action will improve out- Contributing Writer Just including the expansion in the Editorial Other perspectives on the benefits: comes for their health and welfare, strengthen [email protected] budget made hundreds of millions of “As a mother of an Autistic child, I our workforce, and help our community and Jean Card extra dollars available for other priori- know just how important Medicaid is the Commonwealth,” said Katie Cristol, Arling- Production Editor ties. for many things here in Virginia. Medicaid ton County Board chair. [email protected] It will make all of us who live and work in helps fund not just our schools but also our AARP Virginia State Director Jim Dau said Virginia healthier via “herd immunity.” Ensur- Special Education programs here in Virginia,” the bipartisan effort increases access to health ing that our fellow residents have access to said Monica Hutchinson, organizer for New care for 400,000 Virginians, including 95,000 ADVERTISING: For advertising information healthcare, to medications to treat contagious Virginia Majority. “This expansion will have a people over 50 who are not yet eligible for [email protected] illnesses, to vaccinations, to preventive and ripple effect. Not only will hundreds of thou- Medicare. 703-778-9431 acute care protects all of us. We don’t want sands of Virginians receive the care they de- “We have been fighting to expand Medic- the people who shop with us, ride with us on serve, but our schools will also receive extra aid for years and I’m so proud to have been Don Park the Metro or wait in line at motor vehicles to money in their annual budgets.” a part of the team that finally got it done. Display Advertising 703-778-9431 be sick without a reasonable way to be treated. “Now, nearly 400,000 Virginians can see a This achievement will dramatically improve [email protected] We want the people around us to be healthy. It doctor without fear of financial ruin,” Del. the lives of real people in communities across makes everyone healthier. Kathy Tran said. “Last election, voters made it the Commonwealth, including over 5,600 Debbie Funk In Northern Virginia, tens of thousands of clear that increasing access to healthcare is the people in the 49th district,” said Del. Alfonso National Sales people who are living without health insurance top issue for our Commonwealth.” Lopez (D-49) 703-778-9444 [email protected]

Letters David Griffin Marketing Assistant What About Taking the Summer Off 703-778-9431 [email protected] Park Service? By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum spent in the State Capitol is just part of Classified & Employment To the Editor: State Delegate (D-36) the job. Members of the General Assem- Advertising So there is an argument between bly are considered citizen legislators 703-778-9431 those who operate Claude Moore s a teacher for a few years I was with other responsibilities and are paid Colonial Farm and the National often chided by friends as hav as part-time workers. Actually, the posi- A Editor & Publisher Park Service. Most of us under- ing a “cushy” job getting all sum- tion can take as much time as a legisla- Mary Kimm stand what the operators want, mer off from work.Other teachers get the tor can devote to it and the voters are [email protected] but no one, including The Connec- same reaction from those who know willing to tolerate. Having retired from @MaryKimm tion, has said what the Park Ser- little about the profession and certainly my full-time job in 1996 I happily de- vice wants or its view of how the have no experience being in the class- vote full time to my legislative duties. Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon park should be operated. room. Every two years I have to reapply to vot- 703-549-0004 In many jobs if you are having an off day, not feel- ers to keep my job, and with a two-year term some [email protected] Betty Stacey ing well, or just need a break it is possible to let time every other year is devoted to campaigning. McLean some of the requirements of work slide until the next During every year there are study committees and Editor in Chief day. Not so with teaching: every day in the class- commissions that meet when the legislature is not Steven Mauren Managing Editor room you have to be on—ready to face eager stu- in session.This week I participated in a meeting of Kemal Kurspahic Pride of Being dents and the challenges and opportunities they the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission Art/Design: present. I continue to be impressed by teachers who (JLARC) of which I am a member. We provide over- Laurence Foong, John Heinly, Americans can be enthusiastic and understanding early in the sight to the operation of state government including Ali Khaligh To the Editor: morning through afternoon five days a week from financial and management audit, reviews of the per- Production Manager: Geovani Flores I recently spent 6 days in Arling- fall through spring. That’s why that summer break is formance of state agencies and conducting studies ton Hospital. I talked to staff mem- so important. And furthermore, you need the sum- on topics as requested by the legislature. I also serve bers from at least 14 countries, in- mer to take that additional course or workshop for on the Joint Commission on Technology and Science CIRCULATION cluding Bangladesh and Somalia. updating your credentials, work that second or third (JCOTS) that has meetings in the interim to con- [email protected] Each took pride in his or her job and job to balance the family budget, or recharge your sider future legislation and emerging science and in the hospital team. Most noticeable mental and emotional batteries. For anyone with a technology issues. There are many other groups that was the pride all had in being Ameri- different opinion about the challenges teachers face, work between legislative sessions. cans. These are the new citizens who visit some classrooms or better still teach for a while Having a break for the summer from going to work will continue to make America the or substitute. You will soon learn why teachers are as a teacher, legislator or other worker does not mean greatest country in the world. among the people I most admire. you are not working. We all need some mini-vaca- My current “job” of being a legislator may get the tion times of long weekends or a real vacation to Jack K Tarr same reaction from some who are not aware that recharge our mental batteries. We can do a better McLean the regular session of a couple of months of time job as a result.

4 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin

Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/ Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event. and Old Dominion Drive. This VOLUNTEERS NEEDED workshop will focus on planning, Assistance League of Northern design and placemaking. Residents Virginia, a volunteer nonprofit, who plan to attend are encouraged to invites community members to join RSVP, visit eventbrite.com, search the organization to participate in its McLean CBC. Reading Express program. Volunteers Public Safety Program. 7:30 p.m. at provide one-on-one tutoring to first McLean Governmental Center grade students during the school Community Rooms, 1437 Balls Hill year. To learn more contact VP Road, McLean. The June McLean Membership Mary Gronlund at Citizens Association Public Safety [email protected] or Program Program will focus on the Fairfax Coordinator Lynn Barron at County Independent Police Auditor. [email protected]. The Auditor, Richard G. Schott, will provide a presentation to explain his responsibilities and to answer KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION questions. Visit mcleancitizens.org. Child turning 5 years old by Sept. 30? If so, contact your child’s school to make arrangements for SATURDAY/JUNE 16 kindergarten enrollment. Most FCCPTA Leadership Training schools begin getting information Summit. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Thomas together now for parents of incoming Jefferson High School for Science kindergartners, and many host an and Technology, 6560 Braddock orientation or open house. All Road, Alexandria. The Spring 2018 kindergarten programs are full-day PTA Leadership Training Summit will and located in FCPS elementary provide training and leadership schools. Check your school’s webpage development for PTA officers, or contact the school directly for committee chairs and leaders in specific enrollment information and preparation for the 2018-19 school dates of orientationor visit year. Visit www.fccpta.org. www.fcps.edu/registration/ Examined Life Workshop. 9:30 kindergarten-registration. a.m.-1 p.m. at Unity of Fairfax, 2854 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. Twenty- one steps of self-inquiry and growth WEDNESDAY/JUNE 13 for those who have found themselves Community Workshop. 7-9 p.m. in at a crossroads in their lives will be the McLean High School cafeteria, the topic of a workshop by Jungian 1633 Davidson Road, McLean. The analyst and author James Hollis, study focuses on the 230-acre area Ph.D. The half-day workshop is based that’s called the McLean Community on Hollis’ book, Living An Examined Business Center in the county’s Life: Wisdom for the Second Half of Comprehensive Plan. More the Journey. Suggested donation is commonly called downtown McLean, $20. To register, visit this is the area centered around the intersection of Chain Bridge Road See Bulletin, Page 6

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 ❖ 5 News

Photo contributed Home of the $6,850 Bathroom Remodel Dolley’s operator, Kate Ritzenberg, in front of the store. Her grandfather built Dolley Madison Apartments more From Now to WOW in 5 Days Guarantee than 50 years ago, and late last year she converted one of Select your them into Dolley’s. 10% down TWO POOR TEACHERS nothing until the job products from isis completecomplete forfor thethe Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling our Mobile A New Neighborhood Market past 17 years Showroom and Design Opens in Tysons Center Dolley’s, a new neighborhood her own vision to convert one of Fully Insured & market with the bright red awning the ground floor apartments into Class A Licensed at the top of Old Meadow Road in Dolley’s, a cozy market with patio Since 1999 Tysons, is a dream come true for seating. Kate Ritzenberg. She wanted to Dolley’s offers more than one Free Estimates open a place of her own ever since thousand items, including beer, she began working in restaurants wine, and greeting cards. Coffee, 703-214-8384 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com and bakeries in high school. Her donuts and breakfast sandwiches previous employment combined are popular morning choices. with the work she did in college Lunchtime and dinner favorites to earnFrom a B.S.Page in 5Baking and Pastry include hot dogs, pizza, and and Food Service Management has taquitos. As the weather heats up, prepared her well for this venture. Dolley’s has begun selling “Alliga- What makes this location extra tor Ice” frozen drinks. Those with special for her is that Dolley’s is a sweet tooth enjoy selecting from the newest amenity at Dolley more than 100 different candies Madison Apartments that her late and an assortment of Blue Bunny grandfather, Saul Ritzenberg, built ice cream. Dolley’s tag line is more than fifty years ago. He had “From coffee to ice cream and ev- the vision to develop that 30-acre erything in between!” site when Tysons Corner was not Dolley’s is open 7-days a week. Its sum- much more than a crossroads with mer hours are Monday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Satur- a gas station. This past year, day 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. Ritzenberg worked with an archi- to 8 p.m. Phone: 571-489-8584. Address: tect and contractor to implement 1930 Kennedy Drive, #T-1, McLean. Bulletin Board From Page 5 shared-use pathfrom near Tysons unityoffairfax.org/events. Call 703-281- One Place and Fashion Boulevard to 1767 or visit www.unityoffairfax.org/ Route 123 and Old Meadow Road via events for more. a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge over I-495. A presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m. Provide comments at the SUNDAY/JUNE 17 meeting, or send them to VDOT by You Can Make a Difference Mozart’s Mass in C Major KV220. June 29, 2018. Email or mail 10 a.m. at St. John’s Episcopal comments to Mr. Abi Lerner, P.E., Church, 6715 Georgetown Pike, Virginia Department of McLean. St. John’s Episcopal Church Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, choir will sing Mozart’s Mass in C Fairfax, VA 22030. Visit Major KV220 during the service of www.virginiadot.org/projects/ Holy Eucharist. The choir will be northernvirginia/bike- accompanied by violins, trumpets, ped_improvements.asp for more. and organ. All are welcome. No tickets are required. Call 703-356- 4902 or visit TUESDAY/JUNE 19 www.stjohnsmclean.org. I-CARE Seminar. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 450 Orchard St. NW, Vienna. I-CARE Healthy Living Cats benefit from being in a foster home. We need long- and short-term THURSDAY/JUNE 14 Seminar, part of a series of events fosters for cats of all ages, mothers with litters and kittens on their own. Design Public Hearing. 7-9 p.m. at designed to aid seniors’ longevity, George C. Marshall High School, health and enjoyment. This one will 7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. be a two-hour, hands-on workshop visit our website, VDOT will hold a design public on how to cook vegan food at home. Consider Fostering click on Participate hearing on plans to improve bicycle Free and open to the public. Register and pedestrian safety and at the door. Visit connectivity in the Tysons area. icareabouthealth.net for more. Adopt/Donate/Volunteer at www.lostdogrescue.org Improvements include a new 10-foot Extended Care Planning. 6:45-7:45 6 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle Preparing Home for Summer From finding spaces for wet swimsuits and school papers to adding new throw pillows, small touches can add a warm-weather feel. Photos courtesy of Annie Elliott Interiors.

By Marilyn Campbell

hen school ends and summer begins, a home’s functionality can change. WFrom backpacks overflowing with a school year’s worth of school papers and art projects that need a home to bedrooms that call for a warm weather refresh, local designers sug- gest small tweaks to interior spaces that can yield a big impact. From breezy white sheets to beach-themed acces- sories, summer calls for a lightening up of home de- cor, advises interior designer Anne Madden of Mount Vernon. “I always encourage clients to refresh their home decor during warmer months,” she said. “Re- move heavy bed linens that were meant to keep you cozy and replace them with light and airy linens in neutral or cool colors. This is also a good time to swap out throw pillows made from heavy fabrics like wool and incorporate pillows made from lighter fab- rics like linen into your home’s design.” In addition to changing bedroom accessories, sum- mer is also good time to breathe new life into bath- room decor. “Take an inventory of your linen closet Adding new towels and shower curtain in and replace towels that are worn and frayed with light and airy colors, like those in the thick, fluffy ones,” said Madden. “Make sure your bathroom by Annie Elliott Interiors, can shower curtain and liner are fresh and free of mil- add a touch of summer to a bathroom. dew. If they aren’t, replace those too.” Corralling pool necessities into a designated space separate crafts table for children is great or if space is a key to maintaining an organized home during is an issue covering the kitchen table with a plastic the summer, advises professional organizer Susan tablecloth will work also,” she said. “It also helpful Unger of Clutter SOS. “When preparing to head to to have a separate cart with plastic drawers or a small the pool with your children, it’s a real time saver to shelving unit with plastic bins to house craft items. I have an area in the laundry room, entry or garage like plastic because it is washable.” where all the necessary items are kept and they don’t Each drawer or bin can house items like paint, need to gathered up each time,” marker, crayons, coloring books or she said. “Keep a beach bag loaded construction paper, continued with sunscreen, towels, snacks, “Have a designated Unger. “Put a printed label on each toys and clothes. Perhaps each drawer or bin,” she said. “I like to child could even have their own area in your home add a picture of the item as well beach bag. Have a designated area for wet towels and which encourages younger chil- in your home for wet towels and dren to start developing reading suits to be hung up to dry when suits to be hung up skills. They are then also able to returning home.” match the item to the container Create a space that is dedicated to dry when when it comes to putting away the to summer crafts in a way that supplies. It is never to early to en- doesn’t overtake a home’s aes- returning home.” courage cleaning after themselves. thetic, suggests Unger. “Having a — Susan Unger, Clutter SOS The beginning of summer is a great time to sort through school papers and art projects collected thought out the year, says Unger. “As the parent, it will make it easier for your child if you do a presort and get rid of all the schedules, notices and worksheets before involving your child in the pro- cess,” she said. “Then you both can decide on the special items to keep. I like to use a plastic file bin for each child and put each year’s items in a hanging file with the grade on the file tab. This also creates a limited amount of space for the selected items to keep.” If you haven’t already done so, schedule a mainte- nance service appointment for your HVAC system, Adding throw pillows in light, airy colors suggests Maden. “It’s better to spend the money now like the one is the room by Annie Elliott to make sure it’s in good working order than to wait Interiors, can make a space appear ready until breaks down during a heatwave and be at the for summer. mercy of overbooked repair companies,” she said. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 ❖ 7 8 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Sports

Removing Garlic Mustard, Photos contributed Photos contributed The 2017-2018 Madison HS Softball team earned its second consecutive Preserving Nature state champion title by beating Manchester HS 9-0. Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts have become experts in the importance and their families worked side by side of removing invasive plants and restor- over two weekend work days to remove ing natural habitat. invasive plant garlic mustard from Diffi- Invasive species are non-native species Madison Softball Wins cult Run Stream Valley park in Oakton. that cause ecological or economic harm. Volunteers from Girl Scout troops 40, They share certain characteristics, such 3173, 56016 and 56032; Cub Scout pack as being able to mature quickly and gen- State Title 1530; and Boy Scout troops 13, 187, 987 erate many offspring, and they can tol- and 1983 partnered with Fairfax County erate a range of habitats. n Saturday, June 9, 2018, senior Alex Echazarreta pitched a shutout Park Authority’s Invasive Management If you decide to remove garlic mustard the James Madison High with 12 strikeouts. Area program, a community-based, vol- from your property, be sure to bag it and O School softball team ended The Warhawks beat Oakton High School unteer driven initiative to remove inva- dispose of it as garbage, not as yard its year with a perfect sea- in their final regular season game with a sive plants from our park lands. waste. If disposed as yard waste, the seeds son as they became the 2018 Virginia 6A 19-0 win and surged to the number three These scouts and their families pulled will eventually find their way back in the State Champions. spot in the USA Today rankings. As the team more than 20 large garbage bags of the soil and aggressively take over park lands All eyes have been on this team since the continued to chase the perfect season, it invasive plant garlic mustard. In addi- and people’s yards. For more information first game of the season, as they won the became the Champions tion to removing this highly aggressive, go to https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ 2017 Virginia 6A State Championship and as well as the Northern Region Champions. non-native plant, these youth volunteers parks/invasive-management-area were the team to beat. Coached by Jim Entering the VA 6A State Quarter-Final Adkins and Lauren Frankiewicz, the team game against South County, Madison HS was ranked as the number one All-Met team was ranked as the number two team in the in April and opened the season with a no- nation by USA Today. hitter in which they earned 16 runs against Heading in to the 2018 Virginia 6A State Chantilly. That was the first of 16 games in Championship game against Manchester which the opponent did not score against HS, the team’s head coach, Jim Adkins, had the Warhawks. been named both the Concorde District and On April 14, Madison HS faced its big- Region 6D Coach of the Year. Echazarreta gest opponent of the regular season, Bishop also earned the distinction of being the O’Connell High School. Going in to the Concorde District Player of the Year, the game, O’Connell was ranked ninth in the Region 6D Player of the year and the VA nation by USA Today while Madison HS was Gatorade State Softball Player of the Year. ranked 18th. The Warhawks walked away The Warhawks took the lead early in the with a 3-2 win, which catapulted them to game, earning five runs in the first inning. being ranked as ninth in the USA Today Emily Klingaman made a catch for rankings. Coming off of the win against the last play of the game that helped Area scouts and their families worked over two weekend work days O’Connell, the next big game for the Echazarreta earn a no hitter in her final high to remove invasive plant garlic mustard from Difficult Run Stream Warhawks was against the 2017 Virginia 4A school career game. With a final score of Valley park in Oakton. State Champions, Woodgrove High School. 9-0, the Lady Warhawks defended their title Madison toppled Woodgrove as powerhouse as the Virginia 6A State Champions.

The scouts and their families pulled more than 20 large garbage Alex Echazarreta is greeted by the team as she runs home after bags of the invasive plant garlic mustard. hitting a homerun. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 ❖ 9 Calendar

Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged. ‘Exploring

ONGOING Colors & “ with Whales.” Through June 24, Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.; Textures’ Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 and A solo painting exhibition by 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. at 1st Ramin Abrahim. An opening re- Stage, 1524 Spring Hill Road, ception is planned for Friday, Tysons. This world premiere June 22, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Exhibit production invites audiences into a runs June 22-July 31, gallery world of healing, compassion, and hours at IACC, Pars Place, 2236- renewal. While Visiting his family’s C Gallows Road, Vienna. Email secluded cottage on the shores of the Atlantic ocean, Owen, a typically [email protected] or urban 15-year-old boy, and his call 703-314-7240 gallery fisherman father clash until an hours. unlikely and healing communion with an injured whale awakens in Owen a forgotten boyhood and By Ramin connection with the sea. General admission, $33; senior (65+), $30; Abrahim student and military, $15. Closed captions and audio description will be offered for select performances. Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/ celebrated Studio Ghibli praised for Purchase tickets at www.1ststage.org bingo.html. their originality, stunning animation, or 703-854-1856. Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. and ambitious storytelling. All tickets Photography Exhibit: “Nature’s Emmaus United Church of Christ, are regular admission. Visit Palette.” Through June 30, at 900 E Maple Ave. E., Vienna. www.AngleikaFilmCenter.com. Katie’s Coffee House, 760 Walker Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Unitarian Road, Great Falls. Cindy Dibbs takes Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, every opportunity to enjoy and 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. THURSDAY/JUNE 14 photograph nature whether hiking in Gentle Kundalini Yoga, one free Opening Reception: “Too Much of Great Falls National Park, Glacier introductory session, senior Too Much.” 7-9 p.m. in the Bullock National Park or strolling along the discounts. Increase flexibility, | Hitt Gallery at MPA@ChainBridge, beach. Her photos reflect the beauty improve breathing and health, reduce 1446 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. of nature and she hopes the images stress. Ravi Kaur has 15 years McLean Project for the Arts will open will inspire others to protect and experience teaching yoga. $15 per “Too Much of Too Much: treasure the valuable gift of nature. session. www.edimprovement.org. Overstimulated, Overexposed, and Visit www.cindydibbs.com. 571-213-3192. Overextended,” featuring works by Vienna Art Society Exhibition. The Golden Girls of Northern mid-Atlantic artists whose works Through late June at North County Virginia, a senior women’s softball explore the ideas of overstimulation, Government Center, 1801 Cameron league, is looking for players. Any excessiveness and bombardment, be Glen Drive, Reston. Visit woman over the age of 40 is it through too much information, viennaartssociety.org. encouraged to join. All skill levels are activity, expectation, or by any other Vienna Farmers Market. 8 a.m.- welcome. Games are on Wednesday means. The exhibit runs June 14- noon, Saturdays, through Nov. 3 at evenings and Saturday mornings in Aug. 18. RSVP for reception at Vienna Community Center, 120 Vienna, April-October. Other mpaart.org. Cherry St. S.E., Vienna. The Vienna activities during the year. Visit Farmers Market, hosted by the www.goldengirls.org. Optimist Club of Greater Vienna, has Colvin Run Mill open 11-4 p.m. daily, JUNE 14-AUG. 18 more than 30 vendors from across closed Tuesday. 10017 Colvin Run Art Exhibit: “Too Much of Too the region, the Vienna Farmers Road, Great Falls. Fairfax County’s Much.” Gallery hours in the Bullock Market provides locally-sourced fruits operational 19th century water | Hitt Gallery at MPA@ChainBridge, and vegetables and homemade eats. powered gristmill, offers recreational 1446 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Throughout the year, great music and educational activities for all ages McLean Project for the Arts will open will be featured to accompany your through daily tours, school programs “Too Much of Too Much: shopping. Visit and special events. Fees: $7/adult, Overstimulated, Overexposed, and www.optimistclubofgreatervienna.org/ $6 students 16+ with ID, $5 children Overextended,” featuring works by . & seniors. Admission to park is free mid-Atlantic artists whose works Oakton Farmers Market. 9 a.m.-1 except for some special events. explore the ideas of overstimulation, p.m. at Unity of Fairfax Church, 2854 Fishing Rod Rentals. Riverbend Park, excessiveness and bombardment, be Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. Year- 8700 Potomac Hills St., Great Falls. it through too much information, round weekly farmers market in Rentals available during Visitor activity, expectation, or by any other Oakton. Local produce, meats/eggs, center hours. Fishing tackle and live means. Visit mpaart.org. dairy, baked goods, and more. bait are available for purchase. Admission is free. Visit community- Reservations required for group foodworks.org. rentals. $6/rental (2 hour max). FRIDAY/JUNE 15 Great Falls Farmers Market. Valid driver’s license required. Rod/ Read for Fun. Fairfax County Public Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 778 Walker reel combinations are perfect for Library helps make reading fun by Road, Great Falls. Music, vendors, beginners and children. A Virginia or providing tools, access and incentives fresh produce, fresh prepared food, Maryland freshwater fishing license during its Summer Reading delightful bakery, spices from around is required for those 16 years or Adventure. The Summer Reading the world, wild-caught fish, grass- older. The park does not sell fishing Adventure runs June 15-Sept. 1 and fed, free-range meats, organic-fed licenses. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ invites all children and teens – birth poultry and eggs. Email parks/riverbend-park/. through high school – to read for fun [email protected]. over the summer. The theme in 2018 Free Tai Chi. Every Saturday, from is “Reading Takes You Everywhere.” 7:55-9 a.m., Introduction and WEDNESDAY/JUNE 13 Visit research.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Beginners’ Practice, meet on the Summer on the Green: summer-reading. outdoor court located Rocknocerous. 6:30 p.m. area Chillin’ on Church with The directly behind the Dolley Madison residents can catch a new and diverse Rockits. 6:30 p.m. area residents Public Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Ave. musical act at the Town Green or at can catch a new and diverse musical in McLean Central Park, McLean. Call Chillin’ on Church. Bring blankets act at the Town Green or at Chillin’ 703-759-9141 or visit and chairs, but please leave Fido and on Church. Bring blankets and chairs, www.FreeTaiChi.org. any other pets at home. The concerts but please leave Fido and any other The Freeman Store & Museum are free and open to the public. pets at home. The concerts are free Wednesday through Sunday noon-4 Sponsored by Vienna Moms, Inc. Visit and open to the public. Visit p.m. 131 Church St. NE, Vienna. The www.viennava.gov. www.viennava.gov. Freeman Store & Museum is Tysons Concert Series: Ryan dedicated to Preserving and Cabrera. 6:30-8 p.m. on the Plaza promoting Vienna’s heritage through WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY/JUNE 13-14 at Tysons Corner Center. Tysons the identification, preservation, and Studio Ghibli: Princess Mononoke. Corner Center’s 5th annual free interpretation of history significant Wednesday, 7 p.m. (Japanese with Summer Concert Series offers a places, events, and persons. English subtitles); Thursday, 11 a.m. variety of musical guests and has Historicviennainc.org (English dubbed) at Angelika Film proven to be a popular event for Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. Flame Center – Mosaic, 2911 District Ave., families, couples and teenagers. The Room, Vienna Volunteer Fire Fairfax. The Angelika Mosaic will Plaza is located off of The Tysons Department, 400 Center St. S, feature animated films from the See Calendar, Page 11

10 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar Trying to Mind My Weekly From Page 10 Business Corner Metro Station of the Silver Line. Guests are encouraged to arrive early. Visit By KENNETH B. LOURIE www.tysonscornercenter.com/events/ SummerConcertSeries2018. Usually I’m able to write my column because something is on my mind, or at least percolating SUNDAY/JUNE 17 in there somewhere. At the moment, nothing is on my mind or even remotely percolating. The Concerts on the Green: Wes Tucker and The reason for this lack of percolation is that as of Skillets. 6-8 p.m. on the Great Falls Village Centre Green. Sundays throughout the summer, Saturday, eight days after my last chemotherapy bring a picnic and chairs for an evening of free, infusion, I still haven’t been able to think clearly live music. Visit www.celebrategreatfalls.org. in my mind – or out of it, because I’ve spent the past week wallowing in it. The post-chemotherapy experience to which TUESDAY/JUNE 19 I vaguely refer is the primary side effect of the Kids on the Green: Mr. Gabe. 10 a.m. at drug with which I am infused. For the week or Vienna Town Green, 144 Maple Ave. E, Vienna. so following my treatment, I am not quite myself Fun, interactive, and entertaining series of programs tailored for the younger ones. The free (nor am I anybody else for that matter). I am dull performances each Tuesday through July 24. and void. Call 703-255-7842. I am not interested in most tasks and less inclined to concern myself with trivialities and/or any responsibilities related or not. I am WEDNESDAY/JUNE 20 simply biding time, usually lying on the bed, Summer Stories, Songs, and Sprinklers. 1 fully dressed but minimally engaged. Sights and p.m. on the lawn of the Freeman Store, 131 sounds don’t bother me but neither do they moti- Church St. NE, Vienna. Young children and vate me in the slightest. families are invited to listen to a story, tune into some favorite songs, then have a little casual fun I am not exactly a shell of my former self, with water sprinklers at 1 p.m. Wednesdays, I\[[OLJOLTV[OLYHW`OHZKLÄUP[LS`OVSSV^LK June 20-Aug. 8 (except July 4). Free and out a place for itself. Eating and drinking is very appropriate for all ages. Visit JOHSSLUNPUN*VUZLX\LU[S`0OH]LKPMÄJ\S[`Z^HS- www.viennava.gov. lowing the 60-odd pills that I take every day. If Shoot the Moon. 2-3 p.m. at Turner Farm, 925 I’m not careful I will become less medicated and Springvale Road, Great Falls. In “Intro to more constipated. As a direct result, I will sleep Astronomical Photography,” students will study throughout the day – and night. Furthermore, photographic techniques for capturing images of the sun and moon. Discover how to shoot the I risk becoming dehydrated and vitamin and moon in daylight and safe methods for capturing U\[YPLU[KLÄJPLU[ images of the sun. Designed for participants age Let me be clear: this column is not about 10 to adult. Bring a digital camera with a me dying, or the feelings that I have during this telephoto lens. $8 per person. Call 703-324- post-chemotherapy “weak” thinking that I am. 8618 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Hardly. It’s more an attempt to explain – and turner-farm. perhaps justify, the minimal creative thinking I’ve Learn Why the Sky is Blue. 7:30-8:30 p.m. at engaged in this past week preparing to write this Turner Farm, 925 Springvale Road, Great Falls. Come to Observatory Park for “Rainbows, column. It reminds me of a particular Seinfeld Haloes & Glories” to learn about these and other episode when George explained to Jerry why he open sky phenomena. The program will cover was unable to lie his way out of dinner with J. sunrise and sunset phenomena, too, such as the Peterman: “I dug down and there was nothing green flash and purple light. Also discover why there.” the sky is blue and sunsets are orange. For All of the previous paragraphs being written, participants age 6 to adult. $8 per person. Call compared to myriad complications I could 703-324-8618 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ be experiencing – and am not, as well as the parks/turner-farm. premature death “prognosed” by my oncologist: “13 months to two years” back in late February WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY/JUNE 20-21 2009, I am quite the opposite of a victim of my Studio Ghibli: Nausicaa. Wednesday, 7 p.m. circumstances. I am a survivor. Nine-plus years. (Japanese with English subtitles); Thursday, 11 Though still an active patient and one never a.m. (English dubbed) at Angelika Film Center – characterized as a N.E.D. (“no evidence of dis- Mosaic, 2911 District Ave., Fairfax. The Angelika ease”), I continue to look forward not backward. Mosaic will feature animated films from the My life is ahead of me, not behind. To invoke an celebrated Studio Ghibli praised for their originality, stunning animation, and ambitious old reference: “It beats Bermuda off-season.” storytelling. All tickets are regular admission. When “Team Lourie” asked my oncologist Visit www.AngleikaFilmCenter.com. back in early ‘09 if I could possibly live beyond my prognosis, he was not particularly encourag- ing. I remember him saying: “Could you be the THURSDAY/JUNE 21 one? Sure.” (“One” being the operative word.) Live Music: Ciaran Lavery. 7 p.m. at Jammin And in the context of all that he was explain- Java, 227 Maple Ave. East, Vienna. Jammin Java ing/outlining, hardly was it offered up with any presents local, regional and nationally touring enthusiasm. It was more a verbal life preserver acts seven nights a week in an intimate, enjoyable setting. $12 advance, $15 day of. Visit (no pun intended). Something for us to grasp as ciaranlaverymusic.com or jamminjava.com. we continued to discuss and then ultimately de- cided to begin chemotherapy infusions six days later on the following Wednesday. JUNE 21-OCT. 31 And here I still am, June 9, 2018, “Chronic Row by Row Junior. Local quilt shop proprietors Ken,” as I’ve previously “monikered” myself. like Jinny Beyer Studio in Great Falls are I’m living proof of one of the recent goals of welcoming children participating in Row by Row lung cancer research: to change a previously Junior to their shops. It’s the junior version of the summertime travel event for quilt making terminal diagnosis from a death sentence into a fans known as Row by Row Experience. Kids life sentence. And I can live with that, hopefully visit shops in person, collect a free sewing for many years. I have no doubt that research/ pattern, and find inspiration in colorful, creative clinical studies will make it all a reality. world of sewing. At home, families can find free New drugs/treatment protocols are being tutorial support and activities online by visiting approved almost daily it seems, by the F.D.A. www.rowbyrowexperience.com or In fact, as many drugs have been approved in jinnybeyer.com for local quilting. the past few years as had been approved in the previous decade. I have treatment choices now FRIDAY/JUNE 22 that I’ve never had before, immunotherapy is but Summer on the Green: Wayne Tympanick one example. Trio. 6:30 p.m. area residents can catch a new As far as the subject matter for this week’s and diverse musical act at the Town Green or at column, this is all I could muster. I hope you Chillin’ on Church. Bring blankets and chairs, don’t mind. but please leave Fido and any other pets at Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for home. The concerts are free and open to the The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. public. Visit www.viennava.gov. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 ❖ 11 News The Next Theatrical Generation Takes the Stage Photos by Andrea Worker/The Connection The 19th Annual 2018 Cappies Award Gala honors area high school talent.

By Andrea Worker The Connection

hile the current crop of Broadway luminaries were W receiving their Tony awards in New York on Sunday, June 10, the next generation of theatrical stars were being equally feted — and showcasing their many talents — at the 19th Annual Cappies Awards Gala in the Concert Hall at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The Orchestra Award went to the “Titanic Band” of That “Titanic” production must have been something. “Lead Players” Erich DeCinzo, Phil Reid, Oakton High School. From left, Peter Guevara, From left, JD Mayer and Diego Maldonado took home and Diane Poirier, together with hosts — Courtney Tern, Patrick Lee and Jack Yagerline. the Special Effects and/or Technology Award. and Cappies Governing Board members — Judy Bowns and Janie Strauss kept things moving along with abundant witty repar- tee throughout the three-hour event. With musical numbers and dramatic scenes per- formed by cast members from some of the Cappies nominated shows, audience enthu- siasm never waned, from the opening num- ber “Come On, Get Cappies,” (sung to the tune of “Get Happy,” written by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler, and adapted by Judy Garland as one of her signature songs) to the show-stopping finale, featuring a num- ber composed by long-time Cappies musi- cal director, Chris Johnston, who teaches musical composition at the Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts, when not Abby Comey’s performance in conducting the Annandale Northern Vir- McLean High School’s produc- ginia Community College Symphony Or- tion of “9-5: The Musical” won chestra. her the top prize for a Comic The Critics Team Award went to the participants from McLean High Actress in a Musical. School. From left, Helen Ganley, Rachel Kulp. Emily Lachow, Kristen AWARDS were presented in 39 categories, Waagner, Katherine Kelly, and Mary Kate Ganley. ranging from actors/actresses in lead and calist honors as the “Phantom of the Op- supporting roles in plays and musicals, vo- era.” ing experience for high school stu- around the country, and an additional three calists, costumes, choreography, orchestra, And the award for Musical of the Year dents. in Canada. technical arts such as Lighting, Sets and went to Robinson Secondary School for The nonprofit organization has also ex- The telecast of the 2018 Cappies Gala can Sounds and many more. their production of “Monty Python’s panded outside of the immediate area in be viewed online beginning on Saturday, The Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Spamalot.” The audience was treated to the those nineteen years, adding nine chapters June 16 at www.fcps.edu/tv. the District took home the prizes for Best song “Knights of the Round Table” by the Play (“The Rimers of Eldritch”) and for Best Robinson crew early in the program. Actor and Actress in that production, but WINNERS Female Vocalist, Olympia Hatzilambrou, Mary there were plenty of students and perfor- THE LIST of talented young winners in the Category, Winner, Show Name, School Name Poppins, Thomas Jefferson High School for Sci/ Andy Mays Rising Critic, Sarah Bourgeois, Westfield Tech mances from Northern Virginia, from Alex- region goes on – and can be found on the High School Male Vocalist, John Henry Stamper, The Phantom andria to Leesburg, that won the votes of Cappies website www.cappies.com/nca. Maryland Theatre Guide Returning Critic, Katherine of the Opera, Westfield High School the 436 student critics who had reviewed The Cappies were established in the wake Kelly, McLean High School Comic Actress in a Play, Annie Silva, Pride and Special Effects and or Technology, Jack Griggs, Prejudice, five or more shows to become eligible of the Columbine High School massacre in Diego Maldonado, JD Mayer, Titanic, Oakton Comic Actress in a Musical, Abby Comey, 9 to 5 the Cappies Awards voters. 1997. The vision of the late William Strauss, High School Musical, McLean High School Kyle Dalsimer from Annandale High co-founder of the Capitol Steps political Sound, Victoria de Dios & Emma Clark, Dogfight, Comic Actor in a Musical, Xavier Molina, The Drowsy Chaperone, Wakefield High School School was named best in the Lead Actor satire review, and brought to life with his Props, Lily Shirley, The Odd Couple, H-B Woodlawn Supporting Actress in a Musical, Mely Megahed, in a Musical category for his performance partnership with Judy Bowns, the Cappies Secondary Program Phantom, in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.” began as an effort to “bring positive atten- Lighting, Kayla Claussen, Jessica Steadman, and Supporting Actor in a Musical, Nico Ochoa, Monty WPHS Lighting team, Dogfight, West Potomac Python’s Spamalot, Robinson Secondary School The Oakton HS “Titanic Band” was tops tion to teenagers engaged in creative pur- High School Lead Actor in a Musical, Kyle Dalsimer, The in Orchestra. suits.” Orchestra, The Titanic Band, Titanic, Oakton High Hunchback of Notre Dame, Annandale High Olympia Hatzilambrou must have wowed Their mission has expanded to include School School Choreography Kristen Waagner, Ashley Song, Some Kind of Time, Dogfight, West Potomac as the Female Vocalist in Thomas Jefferson opportunities for constructive critical feed- Winegarden, 9 to 5 the Musical, McLean High High School High School for Science and Technology’s back for the theatrical activities of those School Critic Team, McLean High School “Mary Poppins.” youth, to honor the advisors, mentors, and Ensemble in a Musical, Jarheads, Dogfight, West Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot, Robinson John Henry Stamper from Westfield High teachers, as well as the students, and to Potomac High School Secondary School School in Chantilly took the top Male Vo- provide a truly unique collaborative learn- 12 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ June 13-18, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com