NewcomersNewcomers && CommunityCommunity GuideGuide 2017-20182017-2018

Gretchen Kernbach and her dog, Bauer, hiking around Burke Lake. Kernbach was an intern/ reporter for The Connec- tion this summer. Her story on favorite places in Fairfax Station/Clifton/ Lorton area appears on page 3 of the Newcomers & Community Guide.

FairfaxFairfax StationStation ❖❖ CliftonClifton ❖❖ LortonLorton

Photo courtesy of Gretchen Kernback Local Media Connection LLC online at www.connectionnewspapers.com 2 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide

Photos by Gretchen Kernbach/The Connection

The seating area behind Peterson’s also has mini outdoor games for customers to play at their tables.

The path around Burke Lake provides multiple benches overlooking the water. Living and Eating in the Great Outdoors Clifton and neighboring areas of Fairfax Station and Lorton offer good bites and good sites.

By Gretchen Kernbach The Connection

he Clifton area has been my home since I was 7 years old. T Thirteen years later, I feel that I have visited a good deal of the old, and new, attractions Clifton and its sur- rounding areas have to offer. Whether I am hiking or eating (mostly eating), there is a sizeable range of locations I’d recommend visiting. Historical old town Clifton’s charm and antique elegance makes it a cozy location for an afternoon with family and friends. Choices of restaurants include Trummer’s on Main, Clifton Café, The Main Street Pub and Trattoria Villagio. The Café and Pub are considered to be more casual as I would consider Trummer’s and Villagio to be fancier. However, all four spots are open for lunch and dinner, mak- ing anytime the right time to go. Additionally, Trummer’s, the Café and Pub offer brunch. Trummer’s on Sunday. The menus can be viewed on their respective websites. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, Peterson’s Ice Cream is a short walk from Bunny Man Bridge, located on Colchester Road, is Peterson’s wooden sign is a popular photo opportu- all of the restaurants. Their extensive fro- associated with an urban legend that started in 1970. nity. zen menu includes homemade hard ice cream, sorbet and gelato, premium soft desires and then sit in their homey seating first, you have to do your research. The relax and enjoy nature, walking alongside serve, milkshakes and sundaes. Not to men- area behind the shop. Bunny Man Bridge, located on Colchester nature. The 17-mile trail follows the Bull tion, “Clifton Creations,” which features Although it is not right on Main Street, Road, is related to an incident that occurred Run Stream Valley and Occoquan Reservoir. dishes like the Presley S’mores Sundae and just off Chapel Road lies Cupcaked Bakery. in 1970. Although the story has several Some segments of the trail may be challeng- Sister’s Strawberry Shortcake. Baked fresh every day, the bakery offers a variations, they all include a murderous ing, but overall it is an easily manageable wide range of gourmet cupcakes. Flavors man dressed in a bunny costume. If you hike. THE FUN doesn’t stop there though. include red velvet, coconut cream pie, dare, drive under the bridge at midnight Luckily, for those of age, once you finish Peterson’s doesn’t only offer ice cream; they French toast, chocolate chip cookie dough, with a friend. your hike you can take a short walk over to also sell hotdogs, French fries and other hot cake batter, and snickerdoodle. Stepping away from urban legends, the sandwiches. Order whatever your heart If you’re in the mood for a quick scare, Bull Run-Occoquan Trail is a great way to See Places To See, Page 11 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 3 Newcomers & Community Guide About the Connection

s your local, weekly newspaper, the Connection’s mission is to de- Aliver the local news you need, to help make sense of what is hap- pening in your community, to advocate for community good, to provide a forum for dialogue on local concerns, and to record achievements, milestones and events in the community and people’s lives. Here in our Newcomers and Community Guide, we report on the character of your community, we include details of how to vote in the upcoming elections, information on local government, nonprofits and busi- ness organizations, plus tips and tidbits from the community. In 2016 alone, Connection papers won dozens of awards, including the top Virginia Press award — for Integrity and Commu- nity Service, for our coverage of police re- form and related issues. We invite newcomers and long-time resi- dents alike to let us know how we’re doing and let us know what is going on in your part of the community. If you have ques- tions or ideas, send us an email. We invite

Photo by Robin Mogl you to send letters to the editor or to send an email with feedback about our coverage. We want to know if someone in your fam- ily or your community published a book, started a business, became an Eagle Scout, raised money for a good cause, accom- plished some feat like running a marathon, supporting a cause or having art included e in an art show. We publish photos and notes Local Media Connection writers and photographers won 37 Virginia Press Association awards for work in about personal milestones and community 2016, including the Virginia Press Association Award for Journalistic Integrity and Community Service. Pic- events, including births, engagements, wed- tured here from left: John Bordner, Mark Mogle, Mary Kimm, Shirley Ruhe, Tim Peterson, Vernon Miles, Eden dings, anniversaries, awards and obituaries. Brown, Andrea Worker and Jeanne Theismann. We are also interested in events at your church, mosque, synagogue, community We also publish notes about news and ciate getting notice at least two weeks ahead politan Washington in Northern Virginia center, pool, school, club, etc. Email us a events from local businesses. Notes about of the event, and we encourage photos. and Potomac, Md. note about the event, being sure to in- openings, new employees and anniversaries Your community Connection newspaper Our flagship paper, the Alexandria Ga- clude when and where the photo was are welcome. It is especially important to is one of 15 papers published by the inde- zette Packet, is one of the oldest continu- taken and the names of all the people who us to let people know about events ahead pendent, locally owned Local Media Con- ously publishing papers in the country, be- are in a photo. of time in our calendar of events. We appre- nection LLC, serving the suburbs of Metro- ginning publication in 1784.

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For advertising and marketing information, see www.connectionnewspapers.com/advertising Burke Connection: www.twitter.com/ Mount Vernon Gazette: www.twitter.com/ Newcomers email [email protected] or call BurkeConnection @BurkeConnection MtVernonGazette; @MtVernonGazette 703-778-9431. Centre View: www.twitter.com/CentreView; Oak Hill/Herndon: www.twitter.com/ & Community Guide Send news to [email protected] @CentreView HerndonConnect; @HerndonConnect Chantilly Connection: www.twitter.com/ Potomac Almanac: www.twitter.com/ Friend Us On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ ChantillyConnec; @ChantillyConnec PotomacAlmanac; @PotomacAlmanac is produced by ConnectionNewspapers Fairfax Connection www.twitter.com/ Reston Connection: www.twitter.com/ Connection Newspapers FFXConnection @FFXConnection RestonConnect; @RestonConnect Follow Our Papers on Twitter Fairfax Station-Clifton-Lorton Connection: Springfield Connection: www.twitter.com/ www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Newspapers: www.twitter.com/ www.twitter.com/LFSCConnection; SprConnect; @SprConnect Local Media Connection LLC FollowFairfax; @FollowFairfax @LFSCConnection Vienna and Oakton Connection: www.twitter.com/ Alexandria Gazette Packet: www.twitter.com/ Great Falls Connection: www.twitter.com/ ViennaConnect @ViennaConnect AlexGazette; @AlexGazette GFConnection; @GFConnection For more information, Arlington Connection: www.twitter.com/ McLean Connection: www.twitter.com/ — Mary Kimm call 703-778-9431 or email ArlConnection; @ArlConnection McLeanConnect; @McLeanConnect [email protected] [email protected]

4 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers Guide For a free digi- tal subscription to one or all of the 15 Where to Give Locally Connection List of Nonprofits in Fairfax County Newspapers, go to ❖ Cornerstones, 11150 Sunset Hills www.shareofmclean.org for more www.connect Road, Suite 210, Reston, serving info about Share. Reston and Herndon. 571-323-9555, ionnewspapers. www.cornerstonesva.org. Nonprofit ❖ Herndon-Reston FISH (Friendly com/subscribe providing support and advocacy for Instant Sympathetic Help), 336 those in need of food, shelter, Victory Drive, Herndon, 703-391- Be the first to affordable housing, quality childcare, 0105 herndonrestonfish.org and other human services. Programs Herndon-Reston FISH has assisted know – get your and services include the Embry local residents in short term crises by paper before it Rucker Community Shelter, since 1969. FISH provides Friendly Emergency Food Pantry, Instant Sympathetic Help by hits the press. Hypothermia Prevention Program, responding to emergency requests for Thanksgiving Food Drive, Gifts for rent, transportation, utilities, medical Complete digital Kids and annual Coat Drive. Alacia prescriptions and other needs. FISH replica of the Earley at 571-323-9568 or operates The Bargain Loft, a thrift [email protected]. store, which needs donations of good print edition, quality saleable items, accepting and including photos ❖ SHARE of McLean operates a food selling art, furniture, jewelry, pantry; provides assistance to household linens, dishes, pots and and ads, deliv- families to avoid eviction, keep pans, books, women’s designer ered weekly utilities on and meet other needs in a clothing (clean and on hangers), to your e-mail crisis. Share of McLean will provide puzzles, games, collectibles, small holiday assistance to more than 250 electronics and much more. If you box. needy families (630-plus people) this have store questions, call 703-437- year. Each family will receive a 0600. Herndon-Reston FISH also Questions? grocery gift card in November along provides Holiday Food & Gift Baskets E-mail: with a bag filled with pantry staples during the November and December and traditional items. In December, season. goinggreen@ our families will be welcomed to a connection festive party, served a light meal, and ❖ LINK, serving Herndon, Chantilly, Santa will travel all the way from the Loudoun and more. Every year the newspapers.com North Pole to take photographs with goal is to provide each family with a the children. Each person will receive week’s worth of non-perishable food a “wish” gift and families will be in November and again in December. given a grocery gift card, a bag filled When funds allow, grocery gift cards with toiletries, and a jug of laundry are also included. In November, detergent. Help us help our clients also receive a voucher for neighbors in need by fulfilling a wish coats and warm clothing. In or donating Walmart, Target, Giant, December, children 16 and under or Safeway gift cards. Contact Chris receive gifts. Wilbur at [email protected] for more information. Visit See Give Locally, Page 9

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 5 Newcomers & Community Guide

How To Vote School Bonds on Ballot There is a $315 million public school bonds referendum on the Nov. 7 general election ballot. If approved by voters, the Fairfax County Public Schools’ current plans to use this bond Every year is election year in Virginia; money are to: ❖ Plan and/or construct two new elementary schools, one in Fairfax/Oakton area and another in the Northwest county area. mechanics and details of voting require ❖ Relocate one modular building ❖ Plan additions at three existing high schools to add capacity at Madison, Stuart and West attention to detail. Potomac. ❖ Plan and/or construct renovations of 10 elementary schools, three middle schools and two high schools. oting early if you qualify is a good employer of the voter in the ordinary See www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/facilities-planning-future/2017-school-bond-referendum. choice. course of the employer’s business. V There are 19 valid reasons to Any registered voter who does not have Special Election vote absentee in Virginia, includ- one of the required forms of identification Aug. 29, 2017 Special Election, School Board At-Large ing working and commuting to and from can apply for a free Virginia Voter Photo All county polling places will be open on Aug. 29 to fill a vacancy for member, School Board home for 11 or more hours between 6 a.m. Identification from any general registrar’s At-Large for the remainder of the present term of office which expires Dec. 31, 2019. and 7 p.m. on Election Day. Check the Vir- office in the Commonwealth. Voters apply- In-Person Absentee voting is underway until Aug. 26 ❖ Aug 26: Final Day In-Person Absentee Voting ginia Department of Elections list to see if ing for the Virginia Voter Photo ID complete ❖ Aug 29: Absentee Ballot Return Deadline, 7 p.m. you are eligible: elections.virginia.gov/cast- the Virginia Voter Photo Identification Card Four candidates are on the ballot: ing-a-ballot/absentee-voting/index.html Application, have their picture taken, and Chris S. Grisafe There are two ways to vote absentee, in- sign the digital signature pad. Once the Sandra D. Allen Karen A. Keys-Gamarra person and by mail. To do either, you should application is processed, the card will be Michael H. Owens first check your voter registration status to mailed directly to the voter. For more on the school board race, see www.connectionnewspapers.com/news/2017/jul/ make sure it is up-to-date. Then you will A voter who does not bring an acceptable 31/low-turnout-high-stakes-special-election-school-bo/ need to apply for an absentee ballot. Note: photo ID to the polls will be offered a pro- If you vote absentee in-person you will fill visional ballot. out the application when you arrive at the in-person absentee location (see locations Provisional Ballot Process for ON THE BALLOT in Fairfax County: below). Voting absentee by mail? Read be- Voters Who Arrive Without ID low for the process of applying for your If you arrive at your polling place on Elec- Governor mail-in ballot. tion Day without an acceptable form of Ralph S. Northam (D) 42nd District You can now apply for an absentee ballot photo identification, don’t panic or give up. Edward W. “Ed” Gillespie (R) Kathy Tran (D) online with the state’s new Citizen Portal. You will be given the opportunity to vote a Clifford D. Hyra (L) Lolita Mancheno-Smoak (R) You will need your Social Security Number provisional ballot. After completing the pro- and information on your Virginia Driver’s visional ballot, the individual voting will be Lieutenant Governor 43rd District License to complete the application. Infor- given written instructions from the election Justin E. Fairfax (D) Mark Sickles (D) incumbent, unop- mation is also provided on how to apply if officials on how to submit a copy of his/her Jill H. Vogel (R) posed you do not have a driver’s license. identification so that his/her vote can be counted. Attorney General 44th District A voter will have until noon on the Fri- Mark R. Herring (D)* Paul Krizek (D) incumbent, unop- Virginia Voter ID day following the election to deliver a copy John D. Adams (R) posed Virginia has voter identification require- of the identification to the local electoral ments, plan to bring photo identification board or to appear in person to apply for a House of Delegates (100) (2-year 45th District with you to vote, whether that is absentee Virginia Voter Photo ID Card. Voters may term) Mark Levine (D) incumbent, unop- or on Election Day. submit a copy of their ID via fax, email, in- 34th District posed Among accepted ID: valid Virginia person submission, or through USPS or Kathleen Murphy (D) incumbent Driver’s License or Identification Card; commercial delivery service. Please note Cheryl Buford (R) 46th District valid Virginia DMV issued Veteran’s ID that the copy of the ID must be delivered to Charniele Herring (D) incumbent, card; valid U.S. Passport; other govern- the electoral board by noon on Friday, or 35th District unopposed ment-issued photo identification cards is- the provisional ballot cannot be counted. Mark Keam (D) incumbent, unop- sued by the U.S. Government, the Com- Also by noon on Friday following the elec- posed 47th District monwealth of Virginia, or a political sub- tion, the voter may appear in-person in the Patrick Hope (D) incumbent, unop- division of the Commonwealth; valid col- office of the general registrar, in the local- 36th District posed lege or university student photo identifi- ity in which the provisional ballot was cast, Ken Plum (D) incumbent, unopposed cation card from an institution of higher and apply for a Virginia Voter Photo ID Card. 48th District education located in Virginia; valid student At the completion of the application pro- 37th District Rip Sullivan (D) incumbent, unop- ID issued by a public school or private cess, the voter may request a Temporary David Bulova (D) incumbent, unop- posed school in Virginia displaying a photo; em- Identification Document. This document posed ployee identification card containing a may be provided to the electoral board to 49th District photograph of the voter and issued by an suffice the identification requirement. 38th District Alfonso Lopez (D) incumbent Kay Kory (D) incumbent Adam Roosevelt (R) Paul Haring (R) General Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 7 53rd District On Election Day Polls are open from 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31. 39th District Marcus Simon (D) incumbent a.m.-7 p.m., Nov. 7. ❖ Vote early (in-person absentee ballot Vivian Watts (D) incumbent, unop- Mike Case (I) To determine whether eligible and by appearing in person by 5 p.m. Satur- posed registered to vote in this election, visit the day, Nov. 4. 67th District Virginia Department of Elections website For more information on voting in 40th District Karrie Delaney (D) at elections.virginia.gov/ or call Fairfax Fairfax County: Donte Tanner (D) Jim LeMunyon (R) incumbent Elections office at 703-222-0776. Voter Registration: 703-222-0776, TTY Tim Hugo (R) incumbent To vote on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 6 a.m.-7 711 86th District p.m. (General Election) Absentee Fax: 703-324-3725 41st District Jennifer Boysko (D) incumbent ❖ Register/update address by: Monday, Email: [email protected] Eileen Filler-Corn (D) incumbent, Linda Schultz (R) Oct. 16. Election Officer Info: 703-324-4735, unopposed ❖ Request absentee ballot by mail by: 5 TTY 711

6 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide Welcome

Photos by Steve Hibbard/The Connection Exercise your right to vote!

Jayden Harrison, 9, of Hanover, Pa., visits with historic re-enactors at As our Delegate, Gunston Hall, Thomson Mason, a.k.a. John Murphy, and Col. George Mason, a.k.a. Doug Cohen. Tim Hugo is a proven Summer Saturdays at Gunston leader who is working unston Hall in Mason Neck, Lorton, and visitors could play the same games that hard for our community. Goffers a Summer Saturdays pro- George Mason’s family used to play. The gram for children ages 5-12 that next two Saturday programs will be food explore aspects of life in 18th century at and 18th century cooking techniques, and Gunston Hall and Virginia. From living his- then dirt, or archaeology and laundry ac- tory programs to special archaeology tours, tivities. the program that runs from June through “All of our activities are connected to Vote Tuesday, Nov. 7 August gives guests an inside look at the things that would have been going on at many faces of Gunston Hall. On Saturday, Aug. 12, the theme was children’s games, See Saturdays, Page 15

The exterior of Gunston Hall, which was built between 1755-1759, in Mason Neck, Va. It has been a museum since 1951. Working We didn’t inherit to improve the earth the quality of life from our for every citizen in parents. We’re bor- the 40th District. rowing it TimHugo.com Delegate Tim Hugo from our #TeamHugo P.O. Box 893 children. Centreville, VA 20122-9801 —Chief Seattle 703-815-1201 (1788-1866) Suquamish/ Duwamish chief Paid for and authorized for Friends of Tim Hugo www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 7 Newcomers & Community Guide Back to FCPS

By Scott S. Brabrand, Welcome to Fairfax County: Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

‘Work Hard, Play Hard’ t is great to be back in the Fairfax County Public By Sharon Bulova I lege are located just down the road Schools (FCPS) family! I Chairman for affordable higher education op- am returning to FCPS after Fairfax County Board of portunities in many different sub- spending the past Supervisors ject fields. Our business-friendly five years as superin- economy offers a wide array of tendent of Lynchburg I want to visit our elcome to Fairfax impressive career opportunities for City Schools. My County, one of the both our older and younger resi- family is also very schools to understand Wgreatest places in dents. excited to be back; the work and the the nation to live, On the local government level, my two sons will be work, play and raise a family. the Fairfax County Board of Super- attending Fairfax challenges our teachers, Fairfax County is home to a thriv- visors is constantly hard at work High School this year, ing business community, vibrant to ensure quality public services the same school administrators and entertainment and shopping desti- for our residents. Our 10-member where I once served nations, a world class university, Board of Supervisors strives to as principal. I always employees face, to beautiful parks and a diverse popu- maintain positive community en- dreamed of coming lation of engaged residents. gagement, while strategically back to FCPS and it understand what is Whether you are a long time resi- planning for the future with land is an honor for me to dent or new to the county, I hope use and infrastructure decisions. have the opportunity happening “on the you’ll take some time to visit some Some recent Fairfax County ac- to lead this amazing of our most popular spots and enjoy what Fairfax complishments include updating many of our police school system. ground” so I can be County has to offer. policies, establishing a Diversion First program for I was a career better informed when Tysons Corner Center, Fair Oaks Mall, Reston Town people with mental illness who become involved with changer, after doing Center, Fairfax Corner, Springfield Town Center and law enforcement, and successfully extending volunteer work in making decisions. the Mosaic District are great places to shop, eat and Metrorail to Tysons and Reston. Phase 2 of Metro’s the schools, and be- Scott S. Brabrand, Ed.D., spend time with friends. For cultural destinations, Silver Line is currently under construction and will gan in FCPS as a so- George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, Wolf Trap extend all the way to Dulles Airport and into Loudoun cial studies teacher Superintendent of Schools National Park for the Performing Arts and the Work- County. in 1994. I also served house Arts Center in Lorton are some of my favor- Fairfax County offers opportunity and quality ser- as an assistant principal at Equity: FCPS is a microcosm ites. For fresh air and exercise, I recommend our ex- vices for residents of all ages. People from all over Herndon High and an associate of the world with students and tensive network of trails, parks and RECenters. the globe have made Fairfax County their home, en- principal at Lake Braddock Sec- families who come from all While there are a lot of fun things to do in Fairfax riching our community with their diverse cultures ondary School before being backgrounds and cultures. We County, our community is notorious for our “work and entrepreneurship. In Fairfax County, we believe named principal at Fairfax High will ensure that all students hard, play hard” ethic. Time Magazine has described we must all do our part to set a positive tone of ac- School in 2005. In 2009, I was reach Portrait of a Graduate us as the epicenter of the Washington region’s job ceptance, inclusiveness and kindness. named the cluster assistant su- outcomes by addressing oppor- boom and one of the great economic success stories As chairman of the Board of Supervisors, I am perintendent for schools in the tunity, access and attainment of our time. Fairfax County is home to nine Fortune elected at-large by Fairfax County residents. My of- Hayfield, West Potomac and Mt. gaps. Every child, by name and 500 company headquarters, approximately 9,000 fice is here to serve you. If you have any questions or Vernon pyramids. need, can succeed with the tech businesses and over 116 million square feet of concerns, please email me at As your superintendent, I am proper support. office space. [email protected] or give my office a call making Fridays my school days. Effectiveness: We need to Fairfax County has one of the best public school at 703-324-2321. I hope you will sign up to receive I want to visit our schools to un- ensure that FCPS is being effec- systems nationwide with a graduation rate of nearly my monthly Bulova Byline newsletter that will keep derstand the work and the chal- tive and efficient. One step I am 93 percent. Fairfax County Public Schools is the third you up-to-date on what is happening in your new lenges our teachers, administra- taking is to narrow down our largest employer in Virginia and the 10th largest community. I also encourage you to visit tors and employees face, to un- strategic plan in order to focus school system in the country with more than 189,000 fairfaxcounty.gov and fxva.com to see what Fairfax derstand what is happening “on our efforts on achievable priori- students. After high school graduation, George Ma- County has to offer you and your family every sea- the ground” so I can be better ties that we can do well this son University and Northern Virginia Community Col- son and every day. Welcome to your new home. informed when making deci- year as a school division. We sions. will align our resources to these I am committed to following priorities. Striving To Make Democracy Work through on the work of my pre- Expectations: I want our The League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area by holding candidate forums, so they can meet and decessor, Dr. Karen Garza, who employees to love kids. The per- (LWVFA) is a nonpartisan, volunteer organization ask questions of the candidates who are running for established Portrait of a Gradu- sonal connection that our stu- composed of men and women who are dedicated to office. It conducts studies of important community ate — the 21st century learning dents feel with their teachers making democracy work. Since it is nonpartisan, it issues, has monthly meetings during which members model that our system has em- and all of our employees is criti- does not support or endorse candidates. It registers discuss these issues, and uses education and advo- braced — that focuses on the cal to their success. I want our voters and provides them with unbiased information cacy to influence local public policy in the interest of skills necessary for our students employees to love teaching and about the voting process, issues of interest, and elec- the public. To learn more about this organization or to succeed in college and be- learning which I know will posi- tions. It encourages active participation of citizens to join, go to www.lwv-fairfax.org. yond. As a school division, we tively impact a child every day, are committed to achieving this and I want our employees to be goal for every student, in every professional in their work and Service for Seniors Who Want to Serve classroom, in every school. We role models for our students. RSVP is the region’s largest volunteer network for RSVP volunteers enjoy flexible schedules, free ac- can we make this vision happen All of the challenges we face people 55 and older, providing individualized sup- cident and liability insurance while serving, optional through … as a community and a country port to seniors seeking service opportunities in and mileage and meal reimbursement and are invited to Excellence: We need to can best be solved through pub- around Fairfax County, Arlington County and the City group projects and social gatherings with other RSVP make sure every student and lic education and FCPS can and of Alexandria. volunteers. family has an excellent experi- will lead the way. RSVP offers opportunities for volunteers includ- To sign up for an upcoming RSVP orientation email ence during their time with us. I wish all students, teachers, ing providing rides, support and meals to older neigh- Carly Hubicki at [email protected] or This also requires our employees and parents a very successful bors, assisting local veterans in need and helping call RSVP at 703-403- 5360. To learn more about to be fully invested in the impor- school year and I look forward prepare communities for disasters. RSVP also recruits RSVP, visit www.rsvpnova.org. tant work they do every day. to seeing you in your schools! volunteers for community events throughout the year.

8 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers Guide Where to Give Locally From Page 5 FACETS is always in need of [email protected]. 703- volunteers, and offers a variety of 437-1776, one-time and ongoing opportunities. www.linkagainsthunger.org. 703-865-4251 or [email protected]. ❖ Committee for Helping Others www.facetscares.org. 10640 Page (CHO), Vienna, organized in 1969 by Ave., Suite 300, Fairfax VA 22030 a group of churches and individuals in the Dunn Loring, Merrifield, ❖ Britepaths will have 3,000 Oakton, Vienna community to individuals and families in need of provide simple, loving charity to holiday assistance list this fall. those in need. Last year 450 children Sponsor a family or donate to had a special Christmas through the provide a family with a Thanksgiving annual Christmas Store. 703-281- meal, December holiday meal and/or 7614, www.cho-va.com gifts for their children. Join Britepaths at Wine & Wonderment, ❖ Northern Virginia Family Nov. 15, at 2941 Restaurant Service. Just $50 provides a britepaths.org complete holiday meal to a family of four. Donate at give.nvfs.org/ ❖ Fairfax City Area FISH (For holidaydonation or via check payable Immediate Sympathetic Help) helps to “NVFS” with “Operation Turkey” local people who are in temporary on the memo line, or send grocery need of life’s basic necessities such as store gift cards. Northern Virginia food, clothing, and financial Family Service, attn: Holiday assistance for rent, mortgage Initiatives, 10455 White Granite, payments, utilities, and medical Drive, Suite 100, Oakton, VA 22124. treatments. FISH also provides limited transportation for doctor ❖ Second Story — Abused and appointments and food delivery. 703- Homeless Children’s Refuge, 2100 222-0880 fairfaxfish.org/ Gallows Road, Vienna, VA 22182, 703-506-9191. Second Story ❖ Lamb Center, (formerly Alternative House) www.thelambcenter.org, day center provides shelter and services for for homeless, Fairfax 703-691-3178. homeless, runaway or abused teenagers, unaccompanied youth, ❖ Food for Others provides a safety and young mothers and their net for people who suddenly face children. Requests for food and unforeseen emergencies such as a clothing are up more than 50 family illness or the loss of a job or a percent. second-story.org. spouse. Located at 2938 Prosperity Ave., Fairfax, VA 22031, 703-207- ❖ Shepherd’s Center of Oakton 9173. 2938 Prosperity Ave. Vienna providing services, personal [email protected] Hours: enrichment, volunteer opportunities Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. for adults 50 and over. Currently www.foodforothers.org serving 3,000+ mature adults in the region. 703-281-0538, www.scov.org ❖ Ecumenical Community Helping Others (ECHO), 703-569-9160. ❖ Western Fairfax Christian Open to receive donations at 7205 Ministries — food pantry at 13981 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield. Metrotech Drive in Chantilly. For Provides food and financial LCAC has been more information or to sponsor a assistance to those in short-term family, call 703-988-9656, ext. 105. emergencies, and provides clothing To mail gift cards or send donations and household goods to low income serving the by check, add a note saying “food families, helping more than 5,000 basket program” and send them to: people last year. www.echo-inc.org. WFCM, P.O. Box 220802, Chantilly, community for VA 20153. 703-988-9656. ❖ Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) will provide over 42 years! ❖ HomeAid builds and renovates Thanksgiving and Holiday assistance facilities that house the homeless, to more than 450 families this year. and partners with many local Thanksgiving and Christmas food organizations to do so. 3684 baskets along with fulfilling gift Centerview Drive, Suite 110B, wishes for more than 1,000 children zŽƵĐĂŶŚĞůƉLJŽƵƌŶĞŝŐŚďŽƌƐďLJŐĞƫŶŐŝŶǀŽůǀĞĚǁŝƚŚŽŶĞŽĨ Chantilly, VA 20151. and teens will help low-income www.homeaidnova.org/ families More information at >͛ƐŵĂŶLJƉƌŽŐƌĂŵƐĂŶĚĞǀĞŶƚƐ͘ lortonaction.org/seasonal-assistance. ❖ FACETS helps parents, their children Volunteers are needed for these • &ŽŽĚƉĂŶƚƌLJ and individuals who suffer the effects events as well. Register online at • of poverty in the Fairfax area, a lortonaction.org or call 703/339- ŽŵƉůĞƚĞƚŚĞŝƌĐůĞ partner in efforts to end 5161, ext. 140. • Spring Gala homelessness in Fairfax County. • >ŽƌƚŽŶ͛ƐƫĐdŚƌŝŌ^ƚŽƌĞ • dƵƚŽƌŝŶŐWƌŽŐƌĂŵ Jubilee Christian Center • dŚĂŶŬƐŐŝǀŝŶŐ͕tĂƌŵŽĂƚĂŶĚŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐKƵƚƌĞĂĐŚĞƐ “A Caring & Spirit-Filled Church” • ĚƵůƚ͕'ƌŽƵƉĂŶĚzŽƵƚŚsŽůƵŶƚĞĞƌŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐ Worship Gathering – Sunday 8:45, 11 am & 6 pm Sunday School (Life Groups)10:10 am See our website for ways to be involved “Beyond the Limits” Youth - Sunday 6 pm - Pastor Randolph Houston Family Night for all ages, Wed. 7:15 pm or call 703/339-5161, ext. 140! Children’s Ministries & Nursery at All Services - Emily Nelson, Children’s Director Home Life Groups & Sports Ministry >ŽƌƚŽŶĐƟŽŶ͘ŽƌŐŽŶĂƚĞ͘sŽůƵŶƚĞĞƌ͘^ŚŽƉ Discipleship – Mike Colón, Associate Pastor George Mason Chi Alpha College / Young Adult Ministry - Caleb Yirdaw >͛ƐŵŝƐƐŝŽŶŝƐƚŽĞŶŚĂŶĐĞƚŚĞƋƵĂůŝƚLJ Senior Adult Ministries - Roy Dunn Visit our website: www.jccag.org ŽĨůŝĨĞďLJƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐĨŽŽĚ͕ďĂƐŝĐŶĞĞĚƐĂŶĚ Check out www.WeAreThePeople.me to pray with us for America ƐĞůĨͲƐƵĸĐŝĞŶĐLJƉƌŽŐƌĂŵƐƚŚƌŽƵŐŚƚŚĞ Patriot Day Prayer Walk in Fairfax City, Sunday Sept 10, 4:30-5:30 pm ŐĞŶĞƌŽƵƐƐƵƉƉŽƌƚŽĨŽƵƌĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͘ 4650 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax Bill Frasnelli, LEAD PASTOR, 703-383-1170 CFC# 58126 "Loving People to Life” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 9 Newcomers & Community Guide

In April, the sprouts soaked The strawberries were the To cut costs, some of the up the spring sunshine first to be caged for In July, tomatoes appeared, In late August, the toma- plants were raised from before being transplanted varmint protection, and the although this first batch toes were BLT sandwich- seeds. to the garden in May. first to be eaten. was eaten by something. bound. Learning, Sweating, and Reaping What You Sow

By Mike Salmon Vernon that would soon be my home away The Connection from home for the duration of the summer. In January, the plot was nothing but weeds t looked easy when I leaned over the and grass that was about 3 feet tall. After Ifence of a local community garden last hours of hacking away, I discovered that year, mentally planning my own gar- there were six beds underneath that would den with several types of tomatoes, corn, be perfect for my plan. I read books, beans and a couple of cucumber vines over- watched videos on YouTube, talked with whelming the fence, weighted down with other gardeners and came up with a loose “cukes,” that would soon be in plan that wouldn’t cost me too much. In My my salad. The unseen battle March came around, and I researched the Own with weeds, bugs, a family of planting process that began with soaking groundhogs and other furry seeds in wet paper towels, putting them in Words creatures that munch plants a pitch black closet for a few weeks, then down to the nub are part of the to empty egg cartons and biodegradable deal too, but didn’t dampen the spirit of my pots, and then to the garden. May 1 is the community garden. My first year this year preferred date for the freeze line, and off I will be a learning experience for next year’s went with my shovel and seedlings. Disap- garden, and years after that. pointment set in later in May when I dis- The Fairfax covered my corn Photos by Mike Salmon County community stalks nibbled off to From the community garden at Grist Mill Park in the Mount Vernon area, gardens are avail- Fairfax County Park the dirt, and the same the barn creates a farming atmosphere. able through the with my zucchini, park service for Garden Plot Locations sunflowers and 20 to- $125 a year. On the Baron Cameron, 11300 Baron Cameron Ave., matoes that were still birds that were tough to defend against. The This fall, when the tomatoes are dried and county website, I Reston – 32 plots Broyhill Crest Park, 7128 Murray Lane, green. Chatter strawberries were the first to get picked for shriveled, and the weeds have died down, read the long list of Annandale – 15 plots around the garden us to eat, followed by a few blueberries, and next year’s plan will come together and the rules for this project, Eakin Community Park, 8515 Tobin Road, pointed the blame at then tomatoes. The peppers, which I had work will start all over again. I can hardly and then found a Fairfax – 20 plots Franconia Park, 6432 Bowie Drive, Springfield – the family of ground- grown from seed, along with the cucum- wait. plot that is relatively 86 plots hogs that lived in the bers, didn’t come until later in August, but close to my house George Mason Park, 9700 Braddock Road, barn. So out came the were good to eat as well. The two beds that To get your own garden, go to the Fairfax and got on the wait- Fairfax – 46 plots Grist Mill Park, 4710 Mount Vernon Memorial chicken wire and went without plants became a mass of County website, (www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ ing list for one to be Highway, Alexandria – 45 plots soon every plant left weeds in a matter of weeks, and it was soon parks/greenspring/plots.htm), find a location available. I was fi- Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road, had a cage over it. discovered that a layer of newspaper with near your residence and get on the waiting nally matched up McLean – 142 plots Nottoway Park, 9537 Courthouse Road, Vienna – During the sum- mulch on top was a good way to fight the list. Similar to the whole gardening experi- with a 20x30 foot 128 plots mer, I watched the weeds, although some in the garden did use ence, this takes patience as well, and then a plot in the Grist Mill Bo White Gardens (Pine Ridge Park), 3401 weather, the holes in weed killer, a practice frowned on by the certain level of commitment when taking over Park near Mount Woodburn Road, Annandale – 156 plots the fence, and the die hard gardeners. a plot.

When first taking over Plot 29 at the Grist Mill Under the weeds, there were raised beds. This community garden continues to thrive into Park community garden, the weeds ruled. late summer.

10 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide Places To See

From Page 3 October. Last but not least, campgrounds are also accessible to visitors. Paradise Springs Winery. Seating options are Similar to Burke Lake are a couple other available on the front patio or lawn, inside parks: Fountainhead Regional Park in the tasting room, on picnic tables next to Fairfax Station and Hemlock Overlook Re- the vineyard or on the enclosed back porch. gional Park in Clifton. Food pairings are also available for purchase In Lorton, you will find Mason Neck State and live music occurs on most Saturdays Park, Gunston Hall and Pirate’s Cove and Sundays. Waterpark. Mason Neck allows for hiking, biking and MOVING THE FOCUS over to Fairfax Sta- fishing. Gunston Hall is a memorial to tion, a short drive from the town of Clifton, George Mason that provides special pro- is the well-known, classic park of Burke grams for adults and kids to educate them- Lake. It has been around for generations, selves about its history. For those with young racking up memories and character. There children looking to fill their kids’ love for really are endless activities available to do waterslides, visit Pirate’s Cove. for visitors of all ages. Burke Lake Park has Although I do not venture into Lorton been a site I have been visiting since I was often; each spot is commonly known as a in first grade, attending nature camp. safe, outdoors area that can take up a day’s Within the park grounds is a mini-golf time. course, an ice cream parlor, a couple play- Northern Virginia is definitely one to of- grounds, a fitness course, a disc golf course, fer outdoor fun. Growing up was anything a carousel, a miniature train and much short of boring and inactive. Still to this day, more. This past year the driving range went I visit Burke Lake to walk around and grab under renovations and has been back up an ice cream cone from Peterson’s in the and running all summer. afternoon. You simply cannot outgrow The marina is open for rowboat and kayak Clifton and its neighboring locations. rentals as well as those with electric mo- tors. Fishing is encouraged as tackle and Gretchen Kernbach of Clifton was an intern/ bait is available for purchase. Boat tours are reporter with the Connection this summer. She is sharing with newcomers to the area her favorite also given weekends running from April to places in Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton. Viewpoints

What is your favorite spot in the area you’d like to take someone to?

Justin Sheppard, Manager at Ciao Morgan Assel, Ostera, Burke Student at Univer- “I would take sity of Virginia, someone visiting me to Clifton Clifton at The Main “Peterson’s is one of Street Pub. The my all-time favorite atmosphere is great places to go. I like that and the food is they have both ice delicious. After eating, cream and food so that the downtown area is there’s something for great to walk around everyone. It’s a place in.” for people of all ages to go and enjoy some yummy ice cream.” Nacho Fernandez, Bar back at Coastal Richard Wright, Flats, Centreville Director, Office of “One of the places I Safety, Health and would take a new- Environmental comer is Bunny-Man Management, Bridge. I enjoy telling Smithsonian the story and the Management, history of this place. It Clifton is such a scary and “I like hiking along haunting place that will the Bull Run trail in give anyone a thrill Clifton, starting in whether it is their first visit or their one- Balmoral and going all hundredth visit.” the way to Hemlock Overlook Park and back. It’s a great hike along the Tim Harmon, Bull Run, always scenic, quiet and Defense Contractor, historic. It’s a great way to relax Springfield after a hectic week commuting to “Paradise Springs is D.C.” rustic and contemporary all at the same time. They have a friendly and — Compiled by knowledgeable staff. Throw in the live music Gretchen Kernbach and you have a great afternoon.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 11 Newcomers & Community Guide Area Interstates Have Toll Lane Options

and southbound in the afternoon and evenings dur- Latest addition, ing the week, and almost entirely southbound on the weekend. 395 Express Lanes, The 395 Express Lanes are a continuation of these lanes inside the beltway, ending at the Potomac River. are scheduled to be This project is just getting underway, and are sched- uled to be opened in 2019. For now, the northern opened in 2019. stretch of HOV lanes is still operating under the old rules, that requires a minimum of three passengers By Mike Salmon during rush hours, and open to anyone during non- rush hours. he introduction of the “express lanes,” on In December this year, I-66 inside the beltway, from area highways have made tolls common- Arlington to Falls Church, will be a tolled facility but Tplace for anyone driving in the Northern only on the eastbound lanes in the morning and Virginia area. These lanes on I-95, I-495, westbound lanes in the afternoons. It will be toll- and I-395 are outfitted with overhead sensors instead free for vehicles with at least two passengers for now, of booths, and everything is done with the E-Z Pass but that HOV requirement will change to HOV-3 in a or the E-Z Pass Flex which has a feature for high few years when the I-66 express lanes outside the occupancy vehicles (HOV) to avoid the tolls by beltway open in 2022. In addition, the Virginia De- carpooling. The variable toll amount is calculated partment of Transportation is adding an additional by traffic levels at that time, and this price is reflected lane on the eastbound side only, from the Dulles on the overhead digital signs. Access Road to Fairfax Drive, a distance of four miles. On I-495, commonly known as the Capital Beltway, On I-66 outside the beltway, officials are building the 495 Express Lanes stretch 11 miles from Spring- one lane in each direction for 22 miles from Vienna field in the south to a point just past the Dulles Toll to Gainesville, and there will be two express lanes Road in the McLean area. These are two lanes in on each side, similar to I-495. This project, priced at each direction that are in operation 24-hours a day. $2.3 billion, is expected to be done in 2022. The 95 Express Lanes stretch 29 miles from Alex- The Dulles Access Road and the Dulles Greenway andria inside the beltway, south to Route 610 in are toll facilities also but the access road still takes Photo by Mike Salmon Stafford County. These lanes are “reversible,” mean- change as well as the E-Z Pass, and neither road has This toll gantry in Arlington is not in use yet, and is ing they are heading northbound in the morning, an HOV exception. currently being tested. Find Your Children Safe & Sound KIDDIE COUNTRY DEVELOPMENTAL LEARNING CENTER DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE SCHOOL YEAR AND SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS Designed to provide a complete, happy, safe learning environment in harmony with the needs of the child. CHILDREN AGES 2-5 Full (6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.) and half day (9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.) programs SPECIAL FEATURES Developmental Curriculum • Degreed Teachers • Registered Nurse • Music Director • Nutritious Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks • Heated Swimming Pools • Spacious Shaded Playgrounds • Planned Orientations and Presentations for Parents • State Licensed

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS KINDERGARTEN AGES FIVE-ELEVEN YEARS Fall 2018/2019 GRADES K-6 Two Virginia certified teachers per classroom. Transportation provided to Terra Centre, Program emphasizes language arts, math, Fairview, White Oaks, Orange Hunt, Sangster, Hunt Valley and Cherry Run Elementary Schools. computer literacy, science, social studies, Emphasis on special events, sports, time for social development, art, music and physical homework, and student’s choice of activities. development.

FULL DAY SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM AGES SIX TO ELEVEN YEARS Program is organized into weekly themes packed with FANTASTIC FIELD TRIPS, A SENSATIONAL OVERNIGHT CAMP OUT, DAILY SWIMMING, SPORTS, DANCING, MUSIC, AND AN END-OF-THE-SUMMER “SMASH” MUSICAL PRODUCTION BY OUR CAMPERS FOR THEIR FAMILIES. KIDDIE COUNTRY Come See Our Burke, Springfield, 9601 Old Keene Mill Rd. Award-Winning Facility! Fairfax, Lorton Fairfax Station Burke, Virginia 22015 Winner of American Institute 703-644-0066 of Architects Award www.kiddiecountry.com

12 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com School Notes

Send notes to the Connection at [email protected] or call 703-778-9416. Deadline is Friday. Dated announcements should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event.

Grace Heffner, of Fairfax, gradu- ated from High Point University (High Point, N.C.).

Walter Morrisette, of Fairfax, graduated from High Point University (High Point, N.C.).

Michael Kitchen and Amanda Smith, both of Fairfax, were named to the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Academic All-Conference team. The CCIW Academic All-Confer- ence team consists of letterwinners from CCIW member institutions who achieve a cumulative grade point average of 3.30 or higher.

Trevor Thompson, a native of Fairfax, graduated Cum Laude from Ithaca (N.Y.) College’s School of Health Sciences and Human Performance with a degree in athletic training in May 2017.

The following students from the Fairfax area are in the James Madison class of 2021: Kyle Huott plans to major in international affairs - BA; Lizhao Li whose major is undeclared; Nathaniel Rummel plans to major in marketing - BBA; Grace Knowles whose major is undeclared; Sarah Zotian plans to major in Music - BM; Ryan Kehoe plans to major in finance - BBA; Triem Truong whose major is undeclared; Hassan Chaaban whose major is undeclared; Kevin Payne whose major is undeclared; and Rachel Smith plans to major in modern foreign MET LIFE, DELTA, BCBS/CAREFIRST, & UNITED CONCORDIA PROVIDER lang. - BA. WEEKDAYS • SATURDAYS • EVENINGS 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CARE

Celebrating 38 Years Come Join the Fun! of Dance Excellence! buffa’s dance studio • Pre-School Dance Movement – Ages 3 and 4 • Hip Hop • Lyrical/Contemporary • Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Pointe • Modern • Acro • Musical Theater • Aerial Silks • Performing Companies Grades K–12 • Beginner to Advanced • Professional Instructors

12,000 sq. ft. of performing space with professional sprung floors QUALITY CALL 703-425-5599 QUALITY INSTRUCTION 9570-H BURKE RD. BURKE VILLAGE CENTER II, BURKE, VA ENVIRONMENT www.buffas.com • [email protected] www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 13 Newcomers & Community Guide

years old free. Visit fairfaxva.gov/ Year Round Fun about-us/special- events/holiday- Batting Cage Occoquan Regional craft- show Park 9751 Ox Road, Lorton. Open through Oct. 30, Occoquan offers a THURSDAY/NOV. 23 baseball/softball batting cage, perfect Fairfax Turkey Trot. 9 a.m. Grab

for hitters of all levels, from beginner Photos by Mark Mogl to expert. Pitching machines have a your friends and family and join us in wide range of speeds, both in the heart of Old Town Fairfax for the baseball and softball, and offers other third annual Fairfax Turkey Trot pitches like curveballs. Batters must benefiting the City of Fairfax Fire use helmets with protective face Department Benevolent Fund. For guards at all times. Cost: 14 balls information on how to register, visit $1.50 Team Rentals Per Cage: 30 www.runpacers.com/race/fairfax- min. $18 60 min. $34 Visit turkey- trot/. www.novaparks.com/parks/

occoquan-regional-park/things-to- e/The Connection do/batting-cage December 2017 Kayak Rental Occoquan Regional Park 9-6 p.m. daily through Sept. 30 FRIDAY-SATURDAY/DEC. 1-2 This park offers hourly and daily Holiday Book Sale. Friday: 10 a.m.-6 kayak rentals for those interested in p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Burke exploring the river and surrounding. Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road Kayaks are launched from shore and Burke. Peruse a selection of gently are available in one or two seat used holiday-themed books collected configurations. Please note: Pets are by the Friends of Burke Centre not permitted in rental boats. Amusement rides were popular at the Thousands turned out for the Celebrate Library. Visit fairfaxcounty.gov/ Rock The Block Free Concert Celebrate Fairfax Festival. Fairfax Festival in early June. library/branches/bc/ Series 6:30-9:30 p.m. Old Town Square 3999 University Drive, Administration showcases Northern Virginia. Events include 425-9225. Fairfax. Recurring monthly on the SATURDAY/ DEC. 2 photographs from the battle fronts in badminton, volleyball, bocce, 4th Friday through Oct. 28. Call 703- City of Fairfax Festival of Lights France, Italy, and Russia, supply and miniature golf, and many more. The 385-7858. and Carols. 2p.m.-7p.m. Old Town support operations behind the lines, basic registration fee is $13. A fee of Stories From Strawberry Park 10- October 2017 Square, 3999 University Drive. Come and the Paris Peace Conference, open $1 is required for each event. 11 a.m. Tuesdays in Mosaic - enjoy live holiday music, hot cider, through Oct. 20. Group guided tours Additional fees may apply. Visit Strawberry Park, 2910 District SATURDAY/OCT. 7 s’mores, caroling and the Christmas available by reservation, $25. Call nvso.us/. Avenue, Fairfax. Enjoy a live Taste of Fall Feast. 7 p.m. at Stacy C. tree lighting ceremony. Visit 703-385- 8414. interactive performance each week Sherwood Community Center, 3740 www.fairfaxva.gov/about-us/special- taught by a group of unique SEPT. 18-OCT. 28 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. An events/festival-of-lights-and-carols storytellers. For ages 10 and under. evening filled with food, SEPT. 3-4 Photo Exhibition. Tuesday-Saturday, Held outside in Strawberry Park. In entertainment, and a live and silent Model Train Shows. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at The Civil War inclement weather and October noon-5 p.m. at auction to raise funds to help WEDNESDAY/DEC. 13 Interpretive Center at Historic through April, storytime will be held Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, parents, children and individuals in Alphabet Soup. 10:30-11:15am, Burke Blenheim, 3610 Old Lee Highway, in Angelika Film Center. Visit 11200 Fairfax Station Road. Labor Fairfax County and City who suffer Centre Library. Stories and activities Fairfax. “Binding Wounds, Pushing www.fxva.com/listing/mosaic- Day Weekend, The Potomac Module the effects of poverty. Attendees at about letters in the alphabet. Register Boundaries: African-Americans in district/2326/ Crew members will have HO Scale the fundraiser can sample food and beginning Nov. 29 at 10:30 a.m. Age and others will have a LEGO Model Civil War Medicine” looks at the men drink from a variety of Fairfax-area 3-5 with adult. Visit Train Show. Museum members, free; and women who served as surgeons restaurants, wineries and breweries www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/ August 2017 adults 16 and over, $4; children 5- and nurses during the Civil War and while enjoying music by Pan Masters branches/bc/ 15, $2; under 4, free. Information on how their service challenged the Steel Orchestra. $50. Visit the museum and shows is at prescribed notions of race and THURSDAY/AUG. 24 www.FACETSCares.org or call 703- www.fairfax-station.org or call 703- gender. Free. Call 703-591-0560. 554-3609. Flora Fauna for Kids. 11-11:45 a.m. 425-9225. 2018 at Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 FRIDAY-SUNDAY/FEB. 2-4 Greeley Blvd., Springfield. Go on the SEPT. 21-24 SUNDAY/OCT. 8 trail walk and learn about the pond. FRIDAY/SEPT. 8 Golf Tournament. Chocolate Lovers Festival. Friday: 6 All day at Laurel Clifton Day. 9 a.m.-5p.m. The annual $5. Ages 3-6. Call 703-451-9588. Movie Under the Moon. p.m-8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 6:30-9:30 Hill Golf Club, 8701 Laurel Crest Clifton Day is a non-profit event, Sunday: noon-4 p.m. The Chocolate p.m. at Van Dyck Park, 3720 Old Lee Drive, Lorton. Middle Atlantic raising funds for a variety of local Lovers Festival features activities Highway, Fairfax. Featuring The Amateur Championship. Visit organizations. The festival includes SATURDAY/AUG. 26 including the Taste of Chocolate, the Sandlot, starts at 7:30. Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/ arts and crafts, antiques, EqualiTEA. 2-4 p.m. at Gunston Hall, Chocolate Challenge, the ever- fairfaxva.gov. lhgc or call 703-439-8849. demonstrations, the Town Market, 10709 Gunston Road, Lorton. The popular Kiwanis Chocolate Chip live music, children’s activities and event will include afternoon tea, a Pancake Breakfast, open houses at lots of good food. Visit tour of the Mansion at Gunston Hall, SEPT. 9-10 SUNDAY/SEPT. 24 historic buildings and more. Visit www.cliftonday.com/. a presentation about the Turning Burke Centre Festival. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Building a Train Set. 1-4 p.m. at the www.fairfaxva.gov/government/ Point Suffragist Memorial, and a gift at the Burke Conservancy, 6060 Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, parks-recreation/special- events/ for each guest from the Preservation Burke Centre Parkway. Arts and 11200 Fairfax Station Road in Fairfax SATURDAY/OCT. 14 chocolate-lovers- festival Society of Newport County. Dress: crafts, live shows, rides, face Station. Activities include making a 41st Fairfax Fall Festival. 10 a.m.- Hats and pearls, Suffragist attire painting, and festival foods. Visit sample train layout as well as welcome. $60. Email 8:30 p.m. Old Town Fairfax, 3999 APRIL 21-28 www.burkecentreweb.com. involvement in demonstrations of University Drive, Fairfax. Over 400 [email protected]. Historic Garden Week. Visit railroad artifacts. Museum members arts, crafts, information, food and ages 4 and under, free; ages 5- www.vagardenweek.org/ SEPT. 9-20 vendors, children’s activities and 15, $2; ages 16 and older, $4. Craft three stages of music and SUNDAY/AUG. 27 Northern Virginia Senior supplies included in admission. Visit entertainment for all ages. Visit Civil War Reenactment. 1-4 p.m. at Olympics. FRIDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 8-10 Various venues around www.fairfax-station.org, or call 703- www.fairfaxva.gov/about-us/special- Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, Celebrate Fairfax Fair. 12000 events/fall-festival. 11200 Fairfax Station Road. The Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. Fairfax Station Railroad Museum will Northern Virginia’s largest host Civil War re-enactors and From left: John community-wide celebration. Visit modern practitioners who will November 2017 www.celebratefairfax.com or call demonstrate medical and rescue Myers as John Rice, 703-324- 3247 for more information. practices then and now in plus Carmen TUESDAY/NOV. 7 commemoration of Fairfax Station’s Wooden and Fred Election Day. General and special role as an evacuation center during elections. Visit fairfaxcounty.gov/ SATURDAY/APRIL 7 the Battle of Second Manassas in Eckstein as Marga- elections/ecalendar.htm The Annual Fishing Derby. Ashby 1862. Museum members, free; adults ret and Amos Pond Conservatory, 9817 Ashby 16 and over, $4; children 5-15, $2; Benson. During the Road, Fairfax. Ashby Pond will be under 4, free. Information on the SATURDAY/ NOV. 11 stocked with hundreds of trout. Bring museum and shows is at Battle of First The Robinson Marketplace. 9 a.m.- a fishing rod, bucket, plastic bag, and www.fairfax-station.org or call 703- Manassas, the 3 p.m. 5035 Sideburn Road, Fairfax. ice. Bait will be supplied. 9:30 a.m., 425-9225. Bensons nursed the From home crafters and jewelers. 10:15 a.m. and 11a.m. $5 per robinsonptsa.membershiptoolkit.com/ fisherman. Pre-registration required. wounded Rice back marketplace September 2017 to health; 25 years later, he repaid JULY 4 FRIDAY/SEPT. 1 SATURDAY-SUNDAY/NOV. 18-19 City of Fairfax Independence Day them by donating 2017 Holiday Craft Show. Saturday: Celebration. Events at various Photo Exhibition. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at money to rebuild Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.- locations around the city. A fun-filled 10209 Main St., Fairfax. “Over There: their church at the 3p.m. Fairfax High School, 3501 Independence Day celebration in the Americans in World War I” a Rebel Run, Fairfax. Artisans from all City of Fairfax. Visit annual Fairfax Civil over the United States, displaying www.fairfaxva.gov/about-us/special- traveling exhibition from the War Day. National Archives and Records holiday gift choices. $5 admission events/independence-day- fee, $8 for a two day pass. Under 18 celebration. 14 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide

During Summer Saturdays program, volun- teer Jessica McEvoy demonstrates how to make a ball and cup, a popular 18th cen- tury game, with Lillian Barrett, 8, of Ar- Lacey Villiva, the education manager at lington, and Benjamin Snyder, 11, of Gunston Hall, demonstrates the 18th Carlisle, Pa. century game of whirligig. Saturdays at Gunston Hall From Page 7

Gunston Hall or things that we know were hap- pening in the 18th century or likely to have hap- pened. So our 18th century games would have been part of a pastime that George Mason and his family participated in potentially with their guests,” said Lacey Villiva, education manager at Gunston Hall. She said it varies from week to week, so some weeks they might have children’s games, archaeology walk- ing tours, or food samples from 18th century reci- pes. She added: “The 18th century recipes are things that while we don’t know whether or not George DR. GENE SWEETNAM Mason ate them, were definitely things that were Photos by Steve Hibbard/The Connection being made in Virginia in the 18th century. So it’s really a chance to get history to come to life in a way DR. GRACE CHANG that it might not otherwise.” OPTOMETRISTS Future programs at Gunston Hall include the fol- lowing: ❖ Naturalization Ceremony on Sept. 16, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. ❖ Archaeology Day on Sept. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. ❖ Hearth Cooking Class on Oct. 28 and Oct. 29. ❖ Cocktails by Candlelight on Oct. 20, 6-9 p.m. ❖ Decorative Arts Symposium on Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. ❖ Christmastide at Gunston Hall on Dec. 9,10 a.m.- 7 p.m. Gunston Hall is located at 10709 Gunston Road, Mason Neck, VA 22079. Call 703-550-9220 or visit Fernanda Rauda, 6, of Woodbridge tries the website at www.gunstonhall.org. her luck at the ring toss game. — Steve Hibbard Home of the $6,850 Bathroom Remodel • Family & Pediatric Vision Care • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Treatment of Eye Diseases From Now to WOW in 5 Days Guarantee • 21 years Naval Service, 6 years Active Duty Select your • Laser Vision Consultants • Over a thousand frames in stock 10% down • We carry all major brands of contact lenses • In-house lab nothing until the job TWO POOR TEACHERS products from isis completecomplete forfor thethe Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling our Mobile Most Insurances Accepted: past 17 years Showroom Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Care First, Medicare, Tricare In-network and Design Doctor, Vision One Discount, Avesis, Aetna HMO/PPO/POS, PHCS, Center VSP® Network Doctor, EyeMed Vision Care, United Healthcare, VA Medicaid Fully Insured & Class A Licensed WE WELCOME YOUR DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION Since 1999 5204A Rolling Rd. Burke Professional Center Burke, VA 22015 Free Estimates 703-425-2000 703-999-2928 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com www.drsweetnam.com • www.sightforvision.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 15 Photos by Mark Mogle, PO TO featuring Great Falls National Park An Insider’s Guide to M A C map by Laurence Foong and design by Jean Card Parks Major Parks in the Area R IVER

National Parks LOUDOUN COUNTY RBP

GF Great Falls National Park G eo 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean rg et ow GF www.nps.gov/grfa n Great Falls Park is open daily from 7 a.m. until dark. The Visitor Center and bookstore are open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily, spring WOD through fall seasons. Picnic, hike along the Potomac River. To wn of L ee P Herndon sb ik Swimming and wading in the Potomac are prohibited. u e D r . Mem ulle g G.W ori s LFP GWal A P SRN P ccess & To ik ll e k R w GW George Washington Memorial Parkway o 5 ad y y MBG 9 w 4

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Wolf Trap National Park s f e t . e I-66 Rt. 50 a l for the Performing Arts l 2 o n 8 w 1551 Trap Road, Vienna t V R a www.nps.gov/wotr/ l ELP d le CITY OF FAIRFAX The only national park dedicated to y R ike presenting the performing arts. d R bia P . t. 2 lum From May through September, 36 Co 29 multiple amphitheaters in the park Rt. MDP present musicals, dance, opera, jazz, and popular and country music. Explore WFP GSG the park without the crowds from October CITY OF ALEXANDRIA Braddock Rd. - April. The Barns at Wolf Trap offer indoor 5 9 CR I- R -3 95 CH entertainment through the winter months. o I l I-4 l 95 in LAP BR g R To wn of Fa d Rd. i . ia rfa con State Park Clifton x Fran C o u FRA y n i w ty HPP ngf eld . C ri P d k lift Sp kwy R MN Mason Neck State Park o P nia P

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F a PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY i 7301 High Point Rd. Lorton y g le HMP r HO BLP e o www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/ R T t. SRD m 1 e mas.shtml# 2

3 5 M 9 703-339-2385 or 703-339-2380 (visitor center) - I pool. The park also . 1 B

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golf course, a nine-station l include a new exhibit room, gift shop and a batting cage, picnic shelters, and h meeting room. There are several exhibits in the

a special events pavilion. FH S t center, and with a view of Belmont Bay. Visitor LAC . center staff can answer questions and provide CH SR R information on park trails, facilities and local Carlyle House Historic E 1 IV points of interest. Pond study, bird watching, Park t. R R FORT canoe trips, nature walks and talks, and GPS 121 N. Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 AC trails may BELVOIR adventures are just a few of the exciting www.nvrpa.org/park/carlyle_house_historic_park/ M be used O programs offered by park rangers. 703-549-2997 OR PB T without prior O PB The historic Carlyle House was completed in 1753 PC P arrangement. Pohick Bay by British merchant John Carlyle for his bride, Regional Park & G Sarah Fairfax of Belvoir, member of one of the u n Pirates Cove MBG s Regional Parks most prestigious families in colonial Virginia. Meadowlark to Waterpark Their home quickly became a center of social n Botanical Gardens R 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, and political life in Alexandria and gained a d Lorton BR 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, MN . Bull Run Marina Regional Park & foothold in history when British General Vienna www.nvrpa.org/park/ Atlantis Waterpark Braddock made the mansion his headquarters in www.nvrpa.org/park/ pohick_bay/ 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville 1755. On the National Register of Historic meadowlark_botanical_gardens/ www.piratescovepohick.com www.nvrpa.org/park/bull_run/ Places, Carlyle House is architecturally unique in 703-255-3631 703-339-6102 www.atlantisbullrun.com/ Alexandria as the only stone, 18th-century This 95-acre complex of large Pohick Bay is located on the 703-631-0552 Palladian-style house. Daily tours of the house, ornamental display gardens and Potomac River, 25 miles south of the Main park open all year for picnicking, hiking and programs for schoolchildren, special events, unique native plant collections is nation’s capital. The boat launch facility is family camping. Bull Run Public Shooting exhibits and lectures explore the life and times open year round and include one of only three public access points to the Center open all year. Group Camping open daily of John Carlyle in pre-Revolutionary Alexandria. walking trails, lakes, more than 20 Potomac River in northern Virginia. Pohick Bay Jan. 7 though Nov. 11. Mini and disc golf open The site may be rented in the evenings for varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an offers canoes, kayaks, paddle boats and jon April through October. Hours vary. Atlantis private functions and weddings. extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, boats for rent on the weekends, as well as family Waterpark features pools, a giant dumping gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms and and group camping, hiking, picnic areas and a bucket, waterslides, and fun-filled activities for FH foliage. The Atrium’s indoor tropical garden large play area for children. The park offers one all ages. Atlantis is open from Memorial Day Fountainhead Regional Park setting is a popular meeting, reception, wedding of the largest, outdoor freeform pools on the 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station weekend through Labor Day, and is a member of and workshop location. Interpretive displays east coast. Pohick Bay Regional Park, located on www.nvrpa.org/park/fountainhead/ the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority accompany a restored 18th-century cabin. Mason Neck Pennisula is an ecologically fragile family of Waterparks. Neptune Reef snack bar 703-250-9124 land that shelters an abundance of wildlife, sells food, beverages and sweets. The observation deck of the Marina Building at OR including the bald eagle. Pirates Cove Waterpark Fountainhead commands a spectacular view of Occoquan Regional Park is located at Pohick Bay Regional Park. Visitors CR the widest point of the Occoquan Reservoir. 9751 Ox Road, Lorton can cool off under the 300-gallon dumping Cameron Run Regional Park/Great Summer activities include catfish tournaments, www.nvrpa.org/park/occoquan/ bucket, fire the water cannons and splash down Waves Waterpark children’s fishing tournament, paddleboat tours 703-690-2121 the waterslide or search for buried treasure at 4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria and more. This park offers 400 acres of recreational space and Buccaneer Beach sand play area. Pirates Cove www.nvrpa.org/park/cameron_run/ a touch of the past with its historic brick kilns www.greatwaveswaterpark.com/ HO and the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial. Park 703-960-0767 Hemlock Overlook Regional Park lands, trails and associated waters are part of 13220 Yates Ford Road, Clifton Sources: National Park Service, Northern Vir- Cameron Run Regional Park offers a variety of the Fairfax Cross-County Trail. Kayak rentals. www.nvrpa.org/park/hemlock_overlook/ ginia Regional Park Authority, Virginia State recreation facilities in an urban area, including One hour Tour Boat Rides on the Occoquan 800-877-0954; 571-281-3556; Great Waves Water Park. Catch a wave in the River to Belmont Bay and back. Offered Parks and Fairfax County Park Authority. Map Hemlock Overlook Regional Park offers a variety of wave pool, twist and turn down four-story water Saturdays noon-5 p.m., Sunday 1- 8 p.m., April courtesy of Fairfax County Park Authority. De- outdoor and environmental education. Programs slides, take a plunge down speed slides, play 2 through Nov. 27. $10 adults, $5 children 12 signed & compiled by Jean Card and Laurence at Hemlock Overlook are open to the public and with friends in the shallow waters of the play and under, under age 4 are free. Foong. Photos by Renée Ruggles. groups by reservation. Only the hiking and horse 16 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HMP Huntley Meadows Park 3701 Lockheed Boulevard, Alexandria nature center, historic structure, biking/hiking/ nature trails, observation tower, boardwalk 1444.8 acres, natural resource park

LAP Lake Accotink Park 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield basketball, volleyball, minigolf, trails, picnic 448.1 acres, multiple resource park

LFP Lake Fairfax Park 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston softball (lit), soccer/football (unlit), amphitheater, carousel,campground, tour boat, picnic shelters 479 acres, multiple resource park

FRA Lee District Park 6601 Telegraph Road, Franconia softball, soccer/football, tennis, basketball, volleyball, trails, treehouse, sprayground, accessible playground 138 acres, district park

MDP Mason District Park 6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale softball (lit), soccer/football (unlit/lit), basketball (lit), tennis (lit), shuffleboard, dog park, amphitheater, biking/hiking/fitness also features picnic pavilions, a deck for sunning 121.2 acres, district park and playing, as well as plenty of shade. Arts Center Captain’s Galley snack bar features food, CJP Clemyjontri Park beverages and sweets. Pirates Cove is open from LAC Workhouse Arts Center 6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean NWP Nottoway Park Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. fitness, picnic areas and playgrounds 9537 Courthouse Road, Vienna 9601 Ox Road, Lorton 18.6 acres, special purpose park baseball (lit), soccer/football (lit),basketball (lit), PB www.lortonarts.org tennis (lit), trails, picnic Pohick Bay Golf Course 703-584-2900 10301 Gunston Road, Lorton 90.9 acres, district park The Workhouse Arts Center consists of seven studio ELP Ellanor C. Lawrence Park www.nvrpa.org/park/pohick_bay_golf_course buildings, the main galleries and the recently 703-339-8585 5040 Walney Road, Chantilly opened Youth Arts Center. Visitors are RBP Riverbend Park This scenic golf course is located on the Mason baseballl, soccer/football (unlit), basketball (unlit), encouraged to interact with artists. In addition Neck Peninsula in Lorton. Pohick Bay’s practice community center, nature center, amphitheater, 8700 Potomac Hill Street, Great Falls to visual arts, the Workhouse Arts Center is facility features a driving range with practice trails nature center, historic structure, biking/equestrian/ home to performing arts, including theater, film putting and chipping greens, and lessons from 650 acres, multiple resource park hiking trails, picnic areas, craftroom institute, musical and dance performances. The PGA pros. A full-service pro shop features an 411.2 acres, multiple resource park education department supports both the visual array of name-brand golf clubs, equipment and and performing arts, offering classes and FPF Frying Pan Farm Park apparel. Other services include club making, workshops in a variety of disciplines. Future custom club fitting, regripping, reshafting and 2717 West Ox Road, Herndon SRN Scotts Run Nature Preserve plans for the Workhouse include an event tournament coordinating. historic structure, biking/equestrian/hiking trails, center, amphitheater, Workhouse Theatre, 7400 Georgetown Pike, McLean open areas, playground historic structure, historic/hiking/nature trails, restaurants, apartments, music barn and 135.3 acres, multiple resource park PO garden/horticultural area. Other buildings on fishing Potomac Overlook Regional Park & 384.3 acres, natural resource park Nature Center site, yet to be renovated, may provide for other 2845 Marcey Road, Arlington, VA 22207 activities such as a visitors center, a blacksmith GSG Green Spring Gardens www.nvrpa.org/park/potomac_overlook/ shop, theatre scene shops and rehearsal space. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria SRD South Run District 703-528-5406 Community Center, historic structure, biking/hiking On the Potomac Palisades in north Arlington, 7550 Reservation Drive, Springfield Major Fairfax trails, open areas, gardens baseball, soccer/football, basketball, tennis, Potomac Overlook offers 70 acres of peaceful 30.9 acres, special purpose park woodland, trails, educational gardens, a small recenter, equestrian, playground, swimming picnic area and a Nature Center. The Nature County Parks 196 acres, district park Center features brand new exhibits called the HPP Hidden Pond Park “Energerium,” offering visitors a fun and BLP Burke Lake Park & Golf Course 8511 Greeley Boulevard, Springfield WFP Wakefield Park & RECenter accessible way to learn energy basics and ways tennis (lit), nature center, amphitheater, hiking/ 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale they can help create sustainable energy nature trails, playground, fishing volleyball, driving range, 18 hole, par 3, minigolf, softball, soccer/football, basketball, tennis, solutions. The Nature Center also houses live 25.6 acres, community park animals and natural history exhibits. trails, playground, campgrounds, fishing recenter, biking, fitness trail, skate park 883.4 acres, multiple resource park 292.6 acres, multiple resource park SR Sandy Run Regional Park 10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station www.nvrpa.org/park/sandy_run/ 703-690-4392 The park is open to the public for the purpose of education, training, practice, and racing for competitive and recreational sculling and rowing. Only shells and other boats authorized by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority may be launched from the docks or shoreline of Sandy Run. Sandy Run offers a facility for team training and competition for Olympic, college, high school and club canoe, kayak and crew athletes.

UH Upton Hill Regional Park & Ocean Dunes Waterpark 6060 Wilson Blvd., Arlington www.nvrpa.org/park/upton_hill/ www.oceanduneswaterpark.com/ 703-534-3437 or [email protected] Upton Hill Regional Park offers visitors a wooded oasis in the heart of the most densely populated area of Northern Virginia. A large outdoor water-park complex is a sparkling attraction in this wooded, urban park, which straddles the boundary line between Arlington and Fairfax counties. The deluxe miniature golf course boasts one of the longest mini golf holes in the world; the batting cages include nine baseball and softball cages. The park is open every day for hiking, picnicking, playing on the playground and enjoying the outdoors. Located within Upton Hill Regional Park, Ocean Dunes is loaded with fun features for adults and children.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 17 Photos by Mike Salmon Map by Lawrence Foong A Guide to Fairfax County Parks in the Burke, Design by Jean Card Parks Fairfax & Fairfax Station/Lorton/Clifton areas

Vienna 7 FALLS CHU S

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R 18 d 19 27 1 CITY OF FAIRFAX 2 ike ia P Rt. 236 olumb 17 C 65 28 46 29 64 32 30 33 31 35 34 36 3 38 39 Braddock Rd. 40 43 5 42 9 37 44 11 R 3 45 I- 41 o I- ll 49 i 5 12 n g 13 R F d To wn of a . Rd. irf 14 onia Clifton ax ranc 49 C F ou 15 n fi Cl ty ring eld P The St. Mary’s ifto 50 Sp kwy R P nia Church in n k co ph Fairfax Station, R w ran a d. F r built in 1858, 51 y g le was the site e R T used by Clara t. 1 Barton to treat 2 3 5 some of the 9 - I wounded from Map 52 B Number 53 the Battle of Park Name e Bull Run during 4 u 57 Address l the Civil War. City 54 a 5 h Property Class 6 S

56 t 1 Carney Park . Government 55 Center Pkwy, Fairfax Neighborhood Park 1 9 9200 t. 2 Willow Pond Burke Lake 8 R FORT 13101 Autumn Willow Drive, Fairfax Road, Burke Community Park Community Park BELVOIR

3 Woodglen Lake 12 Silas Burke 10617 Zion Drive, Fairfax 5815 Parakeet Drive, Burke Community Park 58 Community Park P

4 Silverbrook 13 Burke Station 7 9351 Silverbrook Road, Fairfax Sta- 6031 Kerrwood Street, Burke G tion Community Park u Community Park 14 Burke Ridge 5 Newington Heights 9719 Burke Lake Road, Burke 8590 Heller Road, Lorton Neighborhood Park Burke Lake Golf District Park Course is a par 15 Rolling Valley West 6 Laurel Hill three course with 6512 Sydenstricker Road, Burke a driving range 8515 Silverbrook Road, Lorton Community Park Countywide Park that has recently 16 Fair Oaks been renovated 7 Old Colchester Preserve 3901 Fair Ridge Drive, Fairfax into a Top Golf 10646 Old Colchester Road, Lorton Neighborhood Park Cultural Resource Park competitive 17 Brentwood range. The course 8 Lorton West 11903 Appling Valley Road, Fairfax remains un- 9800 Ox Road, Lorton Neighborhood Park changed, but the 9 Lower Potomac 18 Random Hills renovations are 9515 Richmond Highway, Lorton 11550 Random Hills Road, Fairfax bringing a new Neighborhood Park 10 Waples Mill Meadow clubhouse to the 11329 Waples Mill Road, Oakton 19 Dixie Hill Multiple Resource Park 4540 Dixie Hill Road, Fairfax Neighborhood Park 11 Lake Braddock 20 Villa D’este 18 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 3120 Northwood Road, Fairfax Inside the Fairfax Station Train Depot, an N Scale train is the center of attention for many train enthusi- asts.

A red caboose is a center of attraction at the Fairfax Station Train Depot.

21 Mosby Woods 30 George Mason 39 Twinbrook Road Neighborhood Park 56 Pohick Estates 9813 Five Oaks Road, Fairfax 9700 Braddock Road, Fairfax 5124 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax 48 Ox Hill Battlefield 7450 Pollen Street, Lorton Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Park 4134 West Ox Road, Fairfax Community Park Cultural Resource Park 57 Newington Commons 22 East Blake Lane 31 Rutherford 40 Middleridge 8915 Hooes Road, Lorton 9540 Bel Glade Street, Fairfax 4710 Guinea Road, Fairfax 5425a Governor Yeardley Drive, 49 Poburn Woods Neighborhood Park Community Park Community Park Fairfax 6325 Wendy Ann Court, Fairfax Sta- Neighborhood Park tion 58 Mason Neck West 23 Villa Lee 32 University Community Park 10418 Old Colchester Road, Lorton 2901 Hunter Road, Fairfax 10200 Braddock Road, Fairfax 41 Greenfield Community Park Neighborhood Park Community Park 5349 Guinea Road, Fairfax 50 Brimstone Neighborhood Park 6600 Ox Road, Fairfax Station 59 Tattersall 24 Hideaway 33 Olde Forge Neighborhood Park 3405 Miller Heights Road, Oakton 2900 Glenvale Drive, Fairfax 4604 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax 42 Monticello Community Park Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Park 5315 Guinea Road, Fairfax 51 Burke Lake & Golf Course Community Park 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station 60 Oak Marr 25 Towers 34 Surrey Square Multiple Resource Park 3200 Jermantown Road, Oakton 9350 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax 4819 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax 43 Kings Park West Multiple Resource Park Community Park Neighborhood Park 5216 Pommeroy Drive, Fairfax 52 Lake Mercer Community Park 9500 Silverbrook Road, Fairfax Sta- 61 Borge Street 26 Armistead 35 Country Club View tion 3030 Borge Street, Oakton 8900 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax 10609 Henrico Street, Fairfax 44 Lakeside Multiple Resource Park Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Park Community Park 5216 Pommeroy Drive, Fairfax Community Park 53 Levell W Dupell 62 Blake Lane School Site 27 Eakin (Mantua Section) 36 Crooked Creek 6812 Newington Road, Lorton 10033 Blake Lane, Oakton 8928 Glenbrook Road, Fairfax 9910 Commonwealth Blvd., Fairfax 45 Herzell Woods Community Park Community Park Neighborhood Park Community Park 5328 Guinea Road, Fairfax Neighborhood Park 54 Mount Air Historic Site 63 Briarwood 28 Smokewood 37 Royal Lake 8600 Accotink Road, Lorton 2830 Zimpel Dr., Fairfax 4120 Whitacre Road, Fairfax 5344 Gainsborough Drive, Fairfax 46 Fairfax Hills Cultural Resource Park Community Park Neighborhood Park Community Park 4304 Holly Lane, Annandale Neighborhood Park 55 Southgate 64 Patriot 29 Ashford East 38 Rolling Woods Estates 7438 Pohick Road, Lorton 12111 Braddock Road, Fairfax 4300 Guinea Road, Fairfax 5208a Marvell Lane, Fairfax 47 Fair Ridge Neighborhood Park District Park Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Park 12300 Meadow Field Drive, Fairfax 65 Mountain Road District 15620 Braddock Road, Fairfax

Skip Lipman, left, leads a group of Weekend Warrior fantasy gamers in one of the fields at Van Dyck Park, with padded weapons in hand.

At Van Dyck Park in the City of Fairfax, a creek runs through the western end of the park with a bike trail that runs along it, crossing on a bridge at one point. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 ❖ 19 A healthy body starts with a healthy mouth!

At Peter K. Cocolis, Jr. and Associates, we believe Washingtonian magazine, Drs. Cocolis and optimum oral health is key to total body health and DaSilva exceed industry standards in the well-being. These days, going to the dentist is not time they dedicate to continuing edu- just about taking good care of your teeth; it is cation and service. Our skilled and about taking good care of your health. Problems compassionate team pairs patient in your mouth can be signs of trouble elsewhere education with the latest dental in your body. Your oral exam reveals important techniques and technology, offer- early warning signs for many total-body condi- ing an extensive array of dental tions including diabetes, oral cancer and high services including digital x-rays, blood pressure. injection-free laser procedures, CAD-cam same-day porcelain Whether your family seeks general preventive crowns, tooth whitening, Invisalign, and maintenance, cosmetic, or advanced restorative and veneers. We offer a variety of sedation implant dentistry to transform your smile’s function and options including oral sedation and nitrous oxide appearance, Drs. Cocolis and DaSilva are renowned by (sleep dentistry) and are dedicated to easing all aspects of peers and patients alike for exceptional personalized care in a your dental experience. friendly, safe and state-of-the-art-environment. Visit us on the Web or give us a call to discover what our Consistently named “Top Dentist” in patients are saying and to make your appointment. Northern Virginia magazine and among the “Best Dentists in the Metropolitan Area” in Our Services: • Routine cleanings and • Endodontic (root canal) therapy check-ups • Periodontal (gum) therapy • Fillings and sealants including scaling and • Sedation “sleep” dentistry root planing • Nitrous oxide • Custom partial and full dentures • Crowns, bridges, inlays, • Custom occlusal and onlays sport guards • Extractions X-rays not included. Not valid with • Implants • TMJ/TMD therapy insurance submission. • Bonding and veneers • In-office professional whitening • Invisalign (clear braces without the wires) Peter K. Cocolis, Jr., DMD & Associates 5803 Rolling Road, Suite 211 Peter K. Cocolis, Jr., DMD, MAGD Springfield, VA 22152 Emily A. DaSilva, DDS, FAGD 703-912-3800 • www.smiles4va.com Monday–Thursday 8 A.M.–5 P.M.; Friday* 8 A.M.–1 P.M. *Once monthly for sedation appointments

20 ❖ Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection ❖ Newcomers & Community Guide 2017-18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com