Promises of a Blue VA: ‘A House for all Virginians’ News, Page 3

Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn (D-41) pic- tured outside of the State Capitol. Del. Filler-Corn is the first woman and first Jewish Speaker-designee in Virginia House of Delegates’ 400-year history. Classifieds, Page 6 Opinion, Page 5 v Entertainment, 2 Classifieds,

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Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. The dead- line is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged. ONGOING Season Extended at Farmers Market. On Saturdays, take advantage of the extended season until Dec. 7 at the Reston Market located at the Lake Anne Village Center, 1609-A Washington Plaza. You can preorder fresh produce, meats, cheese, pies, and eggs for the holidays or stop by for fresh produce, bread, and honey. Contact the Community Horticulture Office at 703-642-0128 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets. Centroid Towns: Like a Passing Shadow. Through Jan. 4, at GRACE, 12001 Market St., Suite 103, Reston. GRACE presents the next chapter of Baltimore-based artist Nate Larson’s Centroid Towns project. Since the first US census in 1790, the United States Census Bureau has been recording the mean center of population as it moves steadily west and south. The first Centroid Town recorded was Chestertown, Maryland, and the projected Centroid of the 2020 census is Hartville, Missouri. Larson will dive deeper into the community of Waterford, Virginia, Centroid Town of 1810. Visit restonarts.org/exhibition/ nate-larson/ for more. Santa at The Closet CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAYS MONDAY/DEC. 9 FRIDAY/NOV. 29 Santa at The Closet. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At The Closet, 845 Station Street, Herndon. Santa will Reston Holiday Parade. 10 a.m. At Reston be at The Closet so bring your cameras or Town Center, Reston. The 29th annual Reston cellphones and get a picture with him. Children Holiday Parade – one of USA Today’s 10 Best – under 12 on the “nice” list will receive a treat. plus tree lighting, sing-along, horse-drawn Free. Visit the website: carriage rides, and more all day. Rain or shine. www.theclosetofgreaterherndon.org Schedule: 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.: Visits and photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Mini-train rides on Market Street; 5 p.m.: Dance Performance at Fountain Square; ❖ 10:30 - 11 a.m.: Good Shepherd Adult Choir 6– 6:30 p.m.: Tree Lighting & Sing Along; performance; 6:30– 10 p.m.: Horse-drawn Carriage Rides. Visit ❖ 12 p.m.: Santa arrives by boat with Susann www.restontowncenter.com/holidays. Gerstein as Grand Marshall. Santa will stay to take a photo with and hear the wishes of all tiny SUNDAY/DEC. 1 tots attending the event inside the Reston Used ”Happy Joyous Hanukkah.” 7 p.m. At Reston Books Store; Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Road, ❖ All day long: visit Lake Anne Plaza stores to pick Reston. The Klezmatics present Woody Guthrie’s up a letter to write to Santa. Mail to Santa at the Happy Joyous Hanukkah at Reston Community North Pole Mail Service inside Chesapeake Center. Cost is $20 Reston/$30 Non-Reston. Chocolates. Woody Guthrie, father of American folk music Merchant specials: and creator of “This Land Is Your Land,” also ❖ 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.: See the exhibit Live, Work, and wrote Hanukkah songs. These were discovered PLAY! Toys of the 1960s exhibit at the Reston by his daughter in 1998 and are reinterpreted by Historic Trust & Museum; the Klezmatics. ❖ 12 - 3 p.m.: Free wine tasting and hot chocolate at Chesapeake Chocolates. SUNDAY/DEC. 1 Visit http://lakeanneplaza.com. 2019 Celebration of Lights. 3:45-6:30 p.m. At The Wonder of the Season. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. the Village Field in Great Falls (behind the Post At Reston Community Center at Hunters Woods, Office). Celebrate the beginning of the season 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. Join The Reston with the 29th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Chorale for The Wonder of the Season, featuring Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies next to the fire as Vivaldi’s Gloria, family holiday favorites and a you listen to local children’s choral groups sing very special guest. Children 17 and under seasonal music. The petting zoo and pony rides admitted free, but tickets are required. Tickets will keep your kids busy until Mr. and Mrs. are $0 to $25. Visit www.RestonChorale.org. Claus arrive by antique fire truck to light the tree. The timeline is as follows: DEC. 9-13 3:45 p.m. - Great Falls United Methodist Preschool ”The Nutcracker.” At Reston’s CenterStage, RCC 4:00 p.m. - Village Green Day School Hunters Woods, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. Pony Rides and Petting Zoo begin Presenting the Conservatory Ballet’s 47th 4:15 p.m. - King’s Kids Preschool rendition of The Nutcracker. Performances are 4:30 p.m. - Siena Academy Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 9-10, 7 p.m.; 4:45 p.m. - St Francis Creche Preschool Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11-12, 7:30 p.m.; 5:00 p.m. - Santa and Mrs. Claus to light the tree Saturday, Dec. 12, 2:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 5:15 p.m. - Forestville ES Ensembles 13, 3:30 p.m. Generations of children have had 5:30 p.m. - Great Falls ES their imaginations sparked by Clara, The Mouse 5:45 p.m. - Colvin Run ES Singalong King, and The Sugar Plum Fairy. This year’s 6:00 p.m. - Live Nativity (pony rides and petting performances in Reston are especially zoo close) meaningful as they represent a mother-daughter Volunteers are needed between 4-6 p.m. Contact team working together to keep a 47-year-old [email protected] if you are available. family tradition alive. This year’s performance After Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in an antique features many young, local dancers including: fire truck to light the Great Falls Tree, they will Ana Bustamante (Reston), a Junior at Herndon meet all children who wish to share their High School with a passion for singing and holiday wishes. music; and Audrey Kelley (Reston) a Senior at South Lakes High School with a passion for SATURDAY/DEC. 7 ballet and sports; Audrey has been performing Jingle on the Lake. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. At Lake with the company since she was 5 years old. Anne Plaza, Reston. Join the Lake Anne Tickets are $17-$25. Visit Merchant Professionals Association for Jingle on www.principalballet.co or email the Lake. Come early to hear holiday music, [email protected]. participate in cookie decorating and other activities around the plaza, and see the plaza SATURDAY/DEC. 14 decorated for the holidays. Event Schedule: Nuttin’ Like the Nutcracker. 4-5:30 p.m. At ❖ 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Reston Farmer’s Market and Aldrin Elementary School, 11375 Center Harbor Reston Craft Market; Road, Reston. Holiday family fun with selections ❖ 9:45 a.m. - Jingle Jammie Beer Run at Lake Anne from The Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky and Brew House. Wear your santa hat and pajamas, presentations by Aldrin Elementary students. runners/walkers/strollers/dogs, all are Bring your own bells or other favorite welcome• 10 am: Cookie decorating starts with Teapot and Cake; See Holiday, Page 8 2 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected] Viewpoints Legislators on Expectations, Priorities The Connection asked local Virginia State Senators and Promises of a Blue VA: Delegates: ❖ What changes do the 2019 election results bring to the General Assembly? ‘A House for all Virginians’ ❖ What do you see as the top five legislative priorities in the next session? ❖ What are your personal legislative priorities in the next Democrats continue to focus on education, session, and what are their prospects to pass in General Assem- transportation and economic equality issues. bly? Delegate (D-86) By Mercia Hobson “It’s hard to understate how unprecedented the The Connection 2019 results are for the General Assembly and the Commonwealth. This could be the first time in n the evening of Nov. modern history, really, when we will have a law- 5, 2019, voters in making majority that holds basic progressive val- OVirginia paved the ues like fairness, inclusion, equity and the pursuit way for a historic of justice for all. We will also have the most diverse legislative shift from red to blue General Assembly in Virginia’s history. in January 2020 when the Virginia For the new majority as a whole, I think ratifying the ERA, General Assembly convenes. strengthening voting rights, raising the minimum wage, prevent- Democrats had turned the tables ing gun violence, and fair redistricting are at the top of the list. I resulting in Democratic State hope to also move the conversation around affordable and avail- House and Democratic State Sen- able housing, workers’ rights and the legalization of marijuana, ate whirlwinds as members se- including expungement of records. lected their leaders, sensitive to As a medical professional, reining in the cost of healthcare and culture, gender and geographic improving public health more broadly are my top priorities. I’ve diversity in Virginia. Democrats already introduced legislation this month that is aimed at im- have pre-filed priority bills and a proving maternal health and mental health. I have more legisla- resolution for the January Session, Photo contributed tion on the way that will work to make affordable, quality health to create an early voting system, Lisa Sales, activist, State Sen. insurance a possibility for uninsured and underinsured Virgin- universal background checks/gun (D-33), Kathy Stewart Shupe, Virginia ians. I’m also planning to help address the outrageous price of safety, housing nondiscrimination Equal Right Coalition and activist Sonia Ballinger focus prescription drugs. If these ideas get a fair hearing, and the over- for LGBTQ+ and ratification for on Virginia ratification of the ERA. whelming evidence around why the healthcare system is so ex- the Equal Rights Amendment. pensive is heard, I think these bills will be able to move through They pledged to work on current wage and ratification of the Equal workforce, and reducing the re- the General Assembly.” critical needs in education, trans- Right Amendment. cidivism rate. In addition, portation and economic equality This also allows Democrats to Northam said he hoped the Equal Senator (D-31)-In- issues. wrest back control of the redistrict- Rights Amendment would be coming Chair of Rehabilitation & Social “We will be walking our own ing process after the 2020 Census, brought to a floor vote and Services: new path moving forward, of (a) the shifting and drawing of the thought progress could be made “The Democratic majorities will honor Virginia’s Virginia that represents & listens new maps for congressional and with raising the minimum wage. history as a forebearer to the Bill of Rights and a to all people no matter what they state legislative districts. state that included an equality amendment in its look like, the color of their skin, Caucus Leadership Elected own constitution by ratifying the ERA. This will the language they speak at home, Democratic Agenda On Saturday, Nov. 9, the new be a momentous occasion. Gun safety measures the religion they practice or not, The day after the election with House Democratic Majority Lead- such as universal background checks and red-flag bills will pass, or who they love,” tweeted House new Democratic power base on ership announced the election of a women’s constitutional right to privacy as defined in Roe v Wade Speaker-designee Eileen Filler- the horizon in the state legislature, Del. Eileen Filler-Corn (D-41) as will be protected, and important criminal justice reform measures Corn (D-41). Governor Northam (D) told CNN Speaker-designee. The full House will pass. All 40 seats in the Virginia State ‘s John Berman on “New Day” he of Delegates would officially vote I will be submitting legislation to require paid sick days. Too Senate and all 100 seats in the Vir- planned to reintroduce a slate of to confirm the new Speaker the many families are struggling because they cannot care for them- ginia House of Delegates had been “common-sense pieces of legisla- first day of the 2020 legislative selves or their sick children. I will also be submitting legislation up for grabs in the 161st Virginia tion” for gun control. “Getting rid session. The House also an- to protect a patient from high medical care bills if he/she re- General Assembly and Virginia of bump stocks, high volume nounced Del. ceived emergency care from out-of-network providers. In collabo- Democrats picked up four House magazines, red flag laws (extreme (D-46) as Majority Leader. She ration with the Zero Carbon Virginia group, I will be implement- District seats, 40 (in Fairfax risk protective orders). I will rein- became the first woman and the ing important actions to address climate change. Voters spoke County), 76, 83 and 94 defeating troduce those in January, and I’m first African American to serve as very strongly in 2019 about the need for a new direction in the the four Republican incumbents. convinced with the majority now Majority Leader. And they elected criminal justice system. One piece of legislation that I have con- Democrats won two other House in the House and the Senate, they Del. (D-48) as Cau- tinually sponsored is the expungement of non-violent felony con- seats, 28 and 91 in open races. will become law. And because of cus Chair. victions from the records of juveniles. I am confident that this They also picked up two State Sen- that, Virginia will be safer… An- “Not only did Virginia just elect legislation will now pass. ate seats, 10 and 13. other issue that is very important the most diverse House of Del- It is noteworthy that the composition of the General Assembly The Democrats would have full is women’s reproductive health egates in its 400-year history, but more closely reflects the diversity of our great state, and women control of the state legislature care and stopping the discrimina- House Democrats have made his- are taking their place in the power structure. when the Virginia General Assem- tion against the LGBTQ commu- tory again by nominating a diverse bly session convened on Jan. 8, nity,” Governor Northam said. leadership slate to truly represent 2020. All three arms of the state’s Later that day, Governor Virginia,” said House Democratic ians,” said Speaker-designee Filler- legislative history. ..We have the government would be theirs. With Northam met with his cabinet and Caucus Executive Director Trevor Corn. “We are stepping up to lead most diverse House Caucus in our the newfound power of a blue- reporters. “Virginia is blue, and I Southerland. “Finally, we will be and understand the value of mak- history, which includes cultural, controlled lower chamber of the want everyone to know that,” he able to move forward with a House ing our schools better, our commu- gender and geographic diversity. Virginia Assembly alongside the said. Northam stated he wanted to for All Virginians.” nities stronger, our economy fairer, It also means diversity of experi- Virginia State Senate coupled with bring back eight bills in January, “We are a unified caucus with and our Commonwealth the envy ence and perspectives on issues a blue Governor’s mansion, Demo- including decriminalizing mari- the shared priority to move our of all the states. The firsts are not that affect Virginians in all regions. crats could pass their agenda Re- juana, increasing support for early Commonwealth forward, address lost on me - the first woman and publicans blocked for years includ- childhood education, more train- our most critical challenges, and the first Jewish person elected See General Assembly, ing gun safety, higher minimum ing for high schoolers to enter the ensure transparency for all Virgin- Speaker designee in our 400-year Page 6 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 ❖ 3 News Herndon Holiday Homes Tour Dec. 7 The untold ins and outs of the community-based and supported event. By Keven LaBlanc Photo by Mercia Hobson/The Connection he community focused Herndon Holiday It’s a Town of Herndon community effort Homes Tour is Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.- to present the annual Herndon Holiday T4 p.m. In addition to the five beautifully Homes Tour. decorated private homes featured this year, the event committee added a bonus stop and munity giving translates to increased proceeds from expanded offerings at ArtSpace Herndon. the event for organizers to contribute back to the Rachel Eisenfeld is the owner of the Elden Street docenting civic organizations in support of their Tea shop located at 714 Pine Street. She agreed to charitable missions. Finally, in commemoration of the open her historic shop as a “bonus home” and is pro- event for homeowners on tour nationally acclaimed viding a special treat on the day of the tour to any- local artist Pat Macintyre of Reston will donate a large one showing their Tour Ticket. The shop offers 65+ framed ink sketch of each home as a special thank hand-curated teas, snacks and an array of arts and you gift to homeowners. crafts for sale to the public. One of the organizers’ primary challenges in this Arts Herndon is providing space for local civic or- volunteer-fueled event is soliciting homes. While ganizations to display information about their social committee members love the homes decorated for and charitable missions at its gallery and perform- the holidays, they also strive to find a mix of peri- ing arts venue located at 750 Center Street. Local ods, architecture styles, sizes and unusual interiors artisans and craftspeople will also be there on tour to appeal to the area’s diverse community. Each year day, selling their handcrafted items, perfect for gift- finding homeowners willing to open their homes is ing. While there, tour patrons can enjoy refreshments difficult. This year, as a special incentive, the com- from the Green Lizard Cycling & Coffee Shop and mittee is offering free tickets to homeowners who Great Harvest Bakery. Organizers hope by involving would like to consider featuring their homes on tour community merchants, artists, artisans and nonprofit soon. Many owners of previously featured homes organizations; they distinguish and set the Herndon commented on how much more integrated they be- Holiday Homes Tour apart from others in the area. came in the community after meeting neighbors and In keeping with the theme of community, mem- local leaders through the event. bers from local civic organizations will be on hand For tour information visit, http:/ as volunteer docents in the featured homes to share 2019holidayhomestourherndon.eventbrite.com/. information. Herndon Florist, located on Lynn Street, Tickets are available at Herndon Florist, 716 Lynn committed to donating a holiday arrangement or Street (cash or check only); Herndon Community wreath to every homeowner on the tour. And, other Center, 814 Ferndale Avenue (cash, check, or credit) local entrepreneurs donated support to produce the through Dec. 7 and Online until Dec. 6, 11:59 p.m. enhanced brochures and help fund the after-recep- (pick up ticket day of tour at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 tion party for homeowners and docents. All that com- Center Street).

Herndon Soup Maker 100 Bowls of Soup Celebrates 10 Years Herndon based 100 Bowls of Soup celebrated its 10th anniversary last Friday night at its Herndon kitchen with an Open House & Tasting Event ben- efiting Cornerstones, a Reston nonprofit organi- zation. The event featured a selection of the local soup maker’s fall soups and broths along with artisanal foods from other local food entrepre- Photo contributed neurs. “I am so grateful for the help, guidance and Local food artisans with 100 Bowls of support of so many friends, fans, customers, em- Soup owner Katharine Mardirosian at the ployees, community members, farmers and food Company’s Open House & Tasting Event. entrepreneurs,” said 100 Bowls of Soup owner and founder Katharine Mardirosian. “I wanted to mark Blends (Sterling), sauerkraut from WowWow Fer- this big milestone by celebrating local food mak- ments (Vienna), gluten-free paleo sweets from ers and by giving back to our community.” Bakefully Yours (Sterling), sustainably sourced Attendees were able to meet the makers, enjoy chocolates from River-Sea Chocolates (Sterling) and samplings, purchase holiday gifts and give back to gluten-free granola from Dano’s Granola (Reston). the community. Locally made foods and makers in- Local farmer David Guisti of Second Spring Farm cluded fresh juices from Kochany Wellness (Ster- (Purcellville) discussed the importance of buying ling), switchel beverages from Vitick’s Switchel (Ar- from local farms using sustainable farming meth- lington), spices and chutneys from Aromatic Spice ods. The event raised $1000 for Cornerstones.

4 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Opinion Oak Hill & Herndon

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trends, politics, etc. An independent, locally owned weekly Please send all submissions no later than ❖ Poetry or other creative writing. newspaper delivered ❖ News stories from school newspapers. to homes and businesses. Friday, Dec. 13, 2019. Earlier is better! ❖ Photos and text about activities or events. Published by ❖ Were you involved in November’s elec- Local Media Connection LLC uring the last weeks of each year, Some suggestions, but don’t be limited by tions? What did you think? 1606 King Street this newspaper devotes its pages these: To be published, we must have the full first Alexandria, Virginia 22314 to the creativity of local students ❖ Drawings or paintings or photographs of and last name of the student artist/writer. D Free digital edition delivered to and children. The results are al- your family, friends, pets or some favorite ac- Identify each piece of writing or art, includ- ways remarkable. It is a keepsake edition for tivity. These should be photographed or scanned ing the student’s full name, age, grade and your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe many families. Even readers without children and submitted in jpeg format. Photos of sculp- town of residence, plus the name of the school, of that age spend time admiring and chuck- ture or larger art projects are also welcome. name of teacher and town of school location. ling over the issue. The annual Children’s Con- ❖ Short answers to some of the following Home schoolers’ contributions are welcomed. NEWS DEPARTMENT: nection (including Children’s Gazette, questions: If you could give your parents, fam- To send flash drives containing artwork and [email protected] Children’s Almanac and Children’s Centre ily or friends any gift that didn’t cost money typed, electronic submissions, mark them Kemal Kurspahic View) is a tradition of well over a decade. what would that gift be? What are you most clearly by school and hometown and mail the Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 We welcome contributions from public and looking forward to in the upcoming year? What flash drive to: Children’s Connection (includ- [email protected] private schools, art classes, individuals and is one thing that you would change about ing Children’s Gazette, Children’s Almanac and homeschoolers. We publish artwork, poetry, school? What do you want to be when you Children’s Centre View), 1606 King Street, Al- Mercia Hobson essays, creative writing, opinion pieces, short grow up? What is your favorite animal? What exandria, VA 22314. Community Reporter [email protected] stories, photography, photos of sculpture or is your favorite toy? What makes a good par- Please send all submissions by Friday, Dec. gardens or other creative efforts. ent? What makes a good friend? Describe one 13, 2019. Andrea Worker We ask that all submissions be digital so they of the best or worst things that ever happened You can see last year’s editions by visiting Contributing Writer can be sent through email or delivered on flash to you? What is the best gift you’ve ever been www.connectionnewspapers.com/PDFs/ and [email protected] drive. Writing should be submitted in text for- given? Ever received? scroll down to Children’s Edition. ❖ Jean Card mat. Artwork should be photographed or Your opinion (around 100 words) about Email submissions for the Children’s Edition Production Editor scanned and provided in jpeg format. traffic, sports, restaurants, video games, toys, to [email protected] [email protected]

ADVERTISING: For advertising information Happy Thanksgiving 2019 [email protected] 703-778-9431 By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum Commentary repentance and submission to the Divine Will State Delegate (D-36) back to the perfect enjoyment of union and Debbie Funk drinking red wine with local Na- fraternal peace.” Display Advertising/National Sales 703-778-9444 he 38 British settlers tive Americans. The thought of recognizing one’s blessings [email protected] who landed on Dec. 4, From its earliest beginnings the and being thankful for them predate any events 1619 at the site of diversity of America with the or proclamations. Sometimes in times of strife David Griffin T Marketing Assistant what is now Berkeley Spanish, British and Indigenous and conflicts we can forget how fortunate we Plantation, about halfway be- Americans was providing ample are. Celebrating a holiday and witnessing the 703-778-9431 [email protected] tween Williamsburg and Rich- reason for a thanksgiving celebra- generosity of giving that is a part of Thanks- mond, fell to their knees and tion. None of those early celebra- giving give us pause to take stock of where we Classified & Employment thanked the Good Lord. Little tions continued. are as individuals and as a nation. The chal- Advertising wonder that they were thankful The celebration that we know lenges of the present remind us that we are 703-778-9431 after having survived a 75-day journey that of as Thanksgiving today traces its continuous not starting a new nation; we are building on should have taken half that time in the history to 1863 when President Abraham Lin- a history of progress in human rights and pros- Editor & Publisher cramped quarters of a small wooden ship with coln issued a proclamation during the Civil War perity unlike any other time in human history. Mary Kimm munitions running out. to “render the homage due to the Divine Maj- We have institutions that will endure. We have [email protected] The guidance provided them by the inves- esty for the wonderful things he had done in and continue to acquire scientific knowledge @MaryKimm tors supporting their voyage was that they the nation’s behalf and…to subdue the anger that can be applied to sustain our civilization. Executive Vice President should observe a period of thankfulness for which has produced and for so long sustained Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, being Jerry Vernon having completed the journey. Do not envision a needless and cruel rebellion…and finally to thankful for what we have and recognizing our 703-549-0004 the event as a bountiful feast for it was not. lead the whole nation through the paths of opportunity for a brighter future. [email protected] The guidance document along with our own imagination of how thankful the voyagers must Letters to the Editor Managing Editor Kemal Kurspahic have been constitute sufficient evidence for Art/Design: Virginia to lay claim to having the first English Laurence Foong, John Heinly, Thanksgiving in the New World. Along with Season to Go Write Ali Khaligh that claim in most documents celebrating the The Connection welcomes views on any Production Manager: happening is a note pointing out that it hap- Back to Basics public issue. Letters must be signed. Include Geovani Flores pened two years before the festivities at Ply- To the Editor: home address and home and business numbers. Letters are routinely edited for mouth, Massachusetts, that are more com- In just a couple of days, me and my family length, libel, grammar, good taste, civility CIRCULATION monly referred to as the first Thanksgiving. will join together to share a meal and eat some and factual errors. [email protected] The Virginia Thanksgiving is qualified as pumpkin pie. I’ll get a couple of days off school Send to: being the first English Thanksgiving for in to sleep in and relax. But Thanksgiving is not Letters to the Editor The Connection Florida there is evidence that the actual first just about food, but gratitude. These days, it 1606 King St. Thanksgiving took place around 50 years be- seems like we don’t appreciate each other Alexandria VA 22314 fore Berkeley and Plymouth near the Matanzas enough. But I hope this holiday season, we go By email: River in St. Augustine, Florida. Rather than a back to basics. [email protected] scene like that typically thought of as Thanks- By Web: giving, the Florida First Thanksgiving would Aumena Choudhry www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/ have had Spanish Conquistadors wearing ar- 12th Grade, Thomas Jefferson High School letter mor gathering around eating salt pork and for Science and Technology. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 ❖ 5 News

Change in the General Assembly From Page 3

Our work will not be easy, but I am prepared and eager to serve the people of the Great Common- Photo contributed wealth of Virginia alongside Ma- Senate Democratic Press Conference on ERA, Senate jority Leader-elect Herring, Demo- Finance Committee, Harrisonburg, Va., Thursday, Nov. 21. cratic Caucus Chair-Elect Sullivan and all of our colleagues,” Filler- lies as we shape our policy agenda Sen. Scott Surovell (D-Mount Corn said. for the commonwealth in 2020 Vernon) Caucus Vice Chair Del. Mark Levine (D-45) posted, and beyond.” Sen. Jeremy McPike (Prince Wil- “This is the most diverse caucus liam)- Caucus Vice Chair that there has ever been in the First Bills and Resolution Sen. Barbara Favola (D- Arling- General Assembly’s 400-year his- Filed ton) Caucus Co-Whip tory. No General Assembly major- Shortly after midnight on Mon- Sen. Lionell Spruill (D-Chesa- ity has ever looked more like the day, Nov. 18, Democratic lawmak- peake) Caucus Co-Whip people of Virginia than the current ers began to file bills minutes into Sen. Jennifer McClellan (D- House Democratic majority.” the opening date of pre-filing for Richmond)- Caucus Secretary the 2020 General Assembly session. Sen-elect Ghazala Hashni (D- Transition Team State Sen. Jennifer L. McClellan (D- Chesterfield)- Caucus Treasurer Announced 9) submitted her first legislation Sen. Jennifer Boysko (D- As the days after the election moments after filing season opened Fairfax)- Caucus Sergeant at Arms rolled forward, on Nov. 14, the at midnight, putting passage of the Sen. (D-Ports- blue wave surged. Speaker-desig- ERA at the symbolic head of the list mouth)-President Pro Tempore- nee Filler-Corn announced her for that chamber. designee (first African American transition team, 18 key advisors, The weekend after the filing, and the first woman to serve as to assist as she transitioned into Democratic Caucus Chair Rip President Pro Tempore) the office of Speaker of the House Sullivan (D-48) shared his of Delegates. She selected Wayne thoughts on party’s intention for Senate Democrats an- Turnage as Chair and Suzette the first three House Bills and reso- nounced Committee Chairs Denslow as Transition Staff Direc- lution, “We tried to send a signal for the 2020 legislative tor. She chose other members for of our highest priorities, in terms session: her team, including Walter Tejada, of the top,” he said. Agriculture, Conservation & a member of the Metropolitan Democrats filed: Natural Resources: Senator Chap Washington Airports Authority ❖ HB1: No-excuse in-person and Petersen (D-Fairfax City) Board of Directors and Ilryong mail absentee voting; Patron: Del. Commerce & Labor Committee: Moon of Fairfax, the first Asian Charniele Herring (D-46). Senator Dick Saslaw (D-Fairfax) American elected to a public of- ❖ HB2: Universal background Courts of Justice: Senator John fice in Virginia. “People across the checks; Patron: Del. Ken Plum (D- Edwards (D-Roanoke) Commonwealth told us they 36). This bill would require uni- Education & Health: Senator L. wanted to move our Common- versal background checks for any Louise Lucas (D-Portsmouth) wealth forward, address our most firearm sales or transfers. Finance: Senator Janet Howell critical challenges and ensure ❖ HB3: LGBTQ+ Housing Non- (D-Fairfax) transparency for all Virginians,” discrimination; Patron: Del. Rules: Senator Mamie E. Locke posted Filler-Corn. “I am truly Delores McQuinn (D-70).The bill (D-Hampton) honored to have guidance from defined sexual orientation and Rehabilitation & Social Services: these leaders from across Virginia gender identity. Senator Barbara Favola (D-Arling- to develop leadership to make our ❖ HJ1: Equal Rights Amend- ton) schools better, our communities ment; Patron: Del. Jennifer Carroll General Laws: Senator George stronger and our economy more Foy (D-2) ratifies the Equal Rights Barker (D-Fairfax) fair.” Amendment to the Constitution of Local Government: Senator the United States proposed by Lynwood Lewis (D-Accomack) Chairs of Key Legislative Congress in 1972. “Today, I filed a Transportation: Senator Dave Committees resolution to have Virginia be the Marsden (D-Fairfax) House Speaker-designee Filler- 38th and final state to ratify the Privileges & Elections: Senator Corn announced her picks for the Equal Rights Amendment to the Creigh Deeds (D-Bath) key legislative committees in a United States Constitution for the With the appointment of State news release Thursday, Nov. 14. upcoming 2020 General Assembly Senator Janet Howell (D- Fairfax) Choices reflected racial, gender session. It’s time to be on the right as incoming Chairwoman of the and geographic diversity of the side of history. It’s time to finally Senate Finance Committee and Democratic caucus. She named ratify the #ERA,” Foy tweeted. Del. (D-Prince Will- Del. Luke Torian, (D-52), as chair iam) as chair of the House Appro- of the Appropriations Committee; VA Senate Democrats Elect priations Committee, the state’s Del. , (D-92), as chair leadership purse strings and its power rested of the Commerce and Labor Com- On Nov. 20, VA Senate Demo- in . mittee; and Del. , (D- crats elected leadership ahead of On Nov. 21, incoming House 75), as chair of the Education the 2020 legislative session. Speaker Filler-Corn announced Committee. All three are members From the Senate Democratic decisions for Chairs of two addi- of the black caucus. House Filler- Caucus: tional committees Del. Mark Sick- Corn also announced Del. Vivian Sen. Dick Saslaw (D-Fairfax)- les (D-43)- Health, Welfare & In- Watts, (D-39), as chair of the Fi- Majority Leader stitutions Committee and Del. nance Committee. “These impres- Sen. Mamie Locke (D- Hamp- Delores McQuinn (D-70) Trans- sive leaders will be important al- ton)-Caucus Chair portation Committee.

6 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin Lost in Submit civic/community announcements at [OL:O\MÅL ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event. By KENNETH B. LOURIE (ZKPMÄJ\S[HZ[OLSHZ[ML^^LLRZOH]LILLU ^P[O*OPUV»ZH[OVTLOVZWPJL[`WLJHYLHUK Fairfax County \S[PTH[LWHZZPUNHUK[OL¸*H[JO(¹YLHSP[PLZ VM¸YL]LYZLTVY[NHNPUN¹T`OV\ZL¸WLYWSL_LK¹ Board of Supervisors I`[OL¸KLYLSPJ[¹Z[HISLZOLKVUT`WYVWLY[` T`\WJVTPUNX\HY[LYS`*;ZJHUOHZU»[L]LU Meetings in 2019 ¸ISPWWLK¹[OLYHKHY;OV\NOP[^PSSOH]LVJ 12000 Government Center Parkway J\YYLKHSYLHK`I`[OL[PTL[OPZJVS\TUWYPU[Z Fairfax, VA 22035 P[»ZX\P[LWVZZPISLK\L[V[OL;OHURZNP]PUN OVSPKH`P[ZYLZ\S[Z^VU»[ILRUV^UMVYT\JO Dec. 3, 2019 9:30 a.m. - Full Board of Su- SVUNLYKH`ZPUMHJ[[OHUOHZILLUJ\Z[VT pervisors Meeting Dec. 10 Committee Meetings HY`(UKZVMHYIL[^LLUT`^PML+PUHHUK0 ❖ 9:30 a.m. - Health, Housing and Human Ser- UVULVM[OPZOHZL]LUILLUKPZJ\ZZLK@L[HZ0 vices Committee ZP[HUK^YP[LVU:\UKH`[OLZJHUPZVU>LKULZ ❖ 11 a.m. - Development Process Committee KH`[OYLLKH`ZH^H`*SVZLLUV\NO[V^OLYL ❖ 1:30 p.m. - Transportation Committee P[ZOV\SKOH]LILLUMYVU[HUKJLU[LYPUZ[LHKVM ❖ 3 p.m. - General Assembly Annual Re- ^OLYLP[»ZILLU!IHJRHUKVMM[V[OLZPKL ception and Work Session )\[ZV^OH[YLHSS`&4`H[[P[\KLPZHUKOHZ HS^H`ZILLU[VX\V[L1VOUHJSVZLMYPLUK!¸0[ MONDAY/NOV 25 PZ^OH[P[PZHUKP[^PSSIL^OH[P[^PSSIL¹)` 27th Annual Ethics Day. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. At [OL[PTL0ZSPKLMVY[OHUKIHJR\UKLY[OL*; Sheraton Reston, 11810 Sunrise Valley Drive, ZJHU»ZHYJOVYLHYSPLY0PTHNPUL[OLKHTHNL[V Reston. In 1992, the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce and South Lakes High School T`IVK`Z\JOHZP[PZVYPZU»[^PSSOH]LILLU established a unique partnership to take the KVUL,P[OLY[OLJHUJLYOHZNYV^UZWYLHKVYP[ entire South Lakes senior class to the Sheraton OHZU»[*LY[HPUS`OLHYPUNHUKVYYLHKPUNYLZ\S[Z Reston where they spend the day learning about MYVT[OLVUJVSVNPZ[^PSSJVUÄYTMHJ[ZH[WYLZLU[ ethical decision making and how it will affect UV[PUL]PKLUJLI\[[OLYLPZ^P[OV\[ILPUNWHY their adult lives. Using a series of four complex, [PJ\SHYS`ULNH[P]LHIV\[T`JPYJ\TZ[HUJLZHU but real-life scenarios, students are asked to PUL]P[HIPSP[`[VP[6ULKH`T`HTHaPUNULHYS` review, discuss and reach ethical decisions for `LHYY\UPZNVPUN[VJVTL[VH^HSRHUK each scenario. About 70 volunteers from the L]LU[\HSS`[VHSPLKV^U(UK0^PSSKLHS^P[O business community lead a small group of 8-10 students through these scenarios and facilitate P[^OLU[OL[PTLYLZ\S[ZJVTL0U[OLPU[LYPT vibrant discussions. They are running short on OV^L]LY[OPZUL_[ZJHUPZTLYLS`HUV[OLYZ[VW volunteers and still have 30 spots to fill. To VU[OLSLZZ[OHU4LYY`.Vº9V\UK learn more, contact Alicia Field, Events and 0KVU»[TLHU[VTHRLSPNO[VMHUL_[YLTLS` Development Director, at 703-707-9045 or OLH]`I\YKLU[OH[^LJHUJLYWH[PLU[ZOH]L[V [email protected]. JHYY`![OLWYVZWLJ[VMKLH[O(Z3LL1*VIIZHPK PU¸;OL,_VYJPZ[!¹¸0VUS`TLU[PVUP[PUWHZZPUN¹ Commemorative Brick Program. *HUJLYJH\ZLZLUV\NOPU[LYUHSWYVISLTZWO`Z The Reston Historic Trust & Museum will be PJHSS`VULKVLZU»[ULLKPMWVZZPISLHUKZVMHY celebrating its commemorative brick program. MVYTLP[OHZILLUWVZZPISL[VJH\ZLL_[LYUHS Members of the community are encouraged to LTV[PVUHSWYVISLTZHZ^LSS4H`ILP[»ZHRPUK support not only the Reston Historic Trust & Museum on Giving Tuesday – but to do so by VMYLZPNUH[PVUVYZVTLRPUKVMHJJVTTVKH[PVU ordering a commemorative brick which is a VYHJJLW[HUJLVMYLHSP[`[OH[OHZLUHISLK[OPZ great way to leave your mark on Reston or give VUL[VOH]LSP]LKZVSVUNIL`VUKT`VYPNPUHS as a gift to friends, family, teachers, neighbors, ¸TVU[O[V[^V`LHY¹WYVNUVZPZVMMLYLK\W organizations, or even a pet. Commemorative VU-LI HUHJJVTWSPZOTLU[0HT bricks can be ordered at https:// WYV\K[VZH`VJJHZPVUHSS`OHZSLK[VT`VUJVSV www.restonmuseum.org/bricks The bricks are NPZ[ZOV^PUNTLVMM[VOPZTLKPJHSZ[\KLU[Z"OPZ ordered only once a year. Bricks to be installed WYPaLJV^0JHSST`ZLSM in 2020 must be ordered by Jan. 8, 2020. Bricks are then reviewed by the Lake Anne /VULZ[S`^OH[»Z[OLWVPU[YLHSS`&0»TVUS` Condominium Association and Reston Historic PUJVU[YVSVMZVT\JO-VJ\ZPUNVU[OPUNZ0 Trust & Museum. JHU»[JVU[YVSZLLTZH^HZ[LVM[PTLHUKLULYN` 3PMLPZWYLJPV\Z>O`K^LSSVU[OPUNZIL`VUK SUPPORT GROUPS T`YLHJO&.YHZWPUNH[Z[YH^ZPM`V\JHUL]LU Parent Support Partners, a service of the ÄUKVULPZSPRL^PZLJV\U[LYWYVK\J[P]L(UK Healthy Minds Fairfax initiative, are all parents ZL[[PUNVULZLSM\WMVYMHPS\YLVYKPZHWWVPU[TLU[ who have received training and are qualitied to PZJV\U[LYPU[\P[P]LHSTVZ[>O`KV[OH[&;OL offer education, support and assistance at no cost to families or caregivers. They provide JHUJLYPZHSYLHK`JH\ZPUNLUV\NOOH]VJPU`V\Y information families can use in decision-making IVK`+VU»[SL[P[HMMLJ[`V\YTPUK[VV¸7PSPUN and are familiar with services and resources that VU¹HZ[OL5-3YLMLYLLZ\ZLK[VJHSS[OPZTHQVY can help families in distress. Visit PUMYHJ[PVU5V^0ILSPL]LP[ZJHSSLK¸OH[L]LY¹ to join the organization to participate in its Reading Express program. Volunteers provide one-on-one tutoring to first grade students during the school year. To learn more contact VP Membership Mary Gronlund at [email protected] or Program Coordinator Lynn Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for Barron at [email protected]. The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 ❖ 7 Holiday Entertainment SATURDAY/NOV. 30 Artisan Pop-Up. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. At a Private Home Show, 1650 Parkcrest From Page 2 Lumley Park (1 Duke St.), Shipyard/ Circle, Reston. Shop from seven-plus Harborside Park (1 Wilkes St.), local artists showing original instruments, as well as your voices. Windmill Hill Park (501 S. Union St.) paintings, prints, children’s books, Admission is free. Donations are and Ford’s Landing Park (99 Franklin artisanal chocolates, ceramics, appreciated. Visit the website: St.). Admission: Free; $ for food/ jewelry and (it’s actually true) more. www.restoncommunityorchestra.org. drink and some activities. Parking is easy and the spirit is VisitAlexandriaVA.com/boatparade merry. Contact Hannah Huthwaite at Schedule in Old Town (2 to 8 p.m.) email: [email protected]. EVENTS IN ALEXANDRIA ❖ Holiday ornament activity from AR Small Crawl. At Lake Anne Plaza, Workshop Alexandria (2 to 4 p.m.) 11402 Washington Plaza, West, FRIDAY-SATURDAY/DEC. 6-7 ❖ Bookmark making station from Old Reston. Start with a group “Crawl” The Scottish Christmas Walk Town Books (4:30 to 8 p.m.) (walk) around Lake Anne starting at Weekend. At various Old Town ❖ Torpedo Factory Art Center Holiday Bronze Bob and then visit Alexandria locations. The Campagna Festival participating businesses to sample Center presents the 49th Annual ❖ Santa arrives by fireboat at the what they have to offer with a Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend Alexandria City Marina (3:30 p.m.) “small” selection. Bring your friends, and Parade. The parade is Dec. 7 at ❖ Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of family, kids and pets. Walk off your 11 a.m. and begins at St. Asaph and Lights begins (5:30 p.m.) Thanksgiving meal and have a fun Wolfe Streets and concludes at filled and delightful day. Market Square with a massed band Participating businesses: • Teapot & concert. Admission: Free for parade RESTON HERNDON CALENDAR Cake – Snowflake cupcake $1 • and Heather and Greens Sales; $180- Reston Historic Trust & Museum – $290 for Taste of Scotland; $40 for WEDNESDAY/NOV. 27 Reston Sticker – free. • Chesapeake Holiday Home Tours. In 1749, the Dollars and Sense. 7 p.m. At Reston Chocolates – Free wine tasting and City of Alexandria was officially Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Virginia treats 12 – 3 p.m. and $1 established by three Scottish Towne Drive, Reston. Monthly group Chocolate all day long. Write a letter merchants and named after its discussion focuses on business to Santa at the North Pole Mailing original founder, John Alexander, leaders and markets. We will be station • Reston Used Books Store– also of Scottish descent. Through discussing “Naked Economics” by 50% short stories • Lake Anne Brew your support of the events of The Charles Wheelan. Call 703-689-2700. House – 1/2 price off of your first Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, “Small Pour” (5 oz. size taster) • you provide vital support to FRIDAY/NOV. 29 Lake Anne Coffee House & Wine Bar Campagna Center programs that Jingles in Jammies & Swimming. – Small cookie for sale. Visit http:// serve more than 2,000 children, 5:30-9 p.m. At Herndon Community lakeanneplaza.com. teens, and adults throughout the Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Mark Twain Birthday Celebration. year. Visit the website: https:// Cost is $5 per person, $18 per family. 2 p.m. At Reston Regional Library, www.campagnacenter.org/ Pay on-site day of event. Kickoff the 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, scottishwalkweekend holidays with some family fun. Go for Reston. Join in this literary a swim in the pool then change into celebration of Mark Twain’s birthday. your PJs to enjoy a showing of “Elf,” Call 703-689-2700. SATURDAY/DEC. 7 Rated PG. Popcorn and hot cocoa will TUESDAY, DEC. 3 Boat Parade of Lights. Parade begins be served. Bring a blanket for at 5:30 p.m.; Dockside festivities 2 to seating. Parents must accompany Bollywood Dance Fitness. 6:30 p.m. 8 p.m. At Waterfront Park, 1 King children 5 and under in the water. All At Reston Regional Library, 11925 Street, Alexandria. Parade viewing children must have adult supervision Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Join areas: Founders Park (351 N. Union at the pool and this event. Visit in a fun Bollywood dance fitness St.), Alexandria City Marina (0 herndon-va.gov/events, or call 703- class led by local instructor Aparna Cameron St.), Waterfront Park (1 787-7300. Rao. No experience necessary. King St. and 1A Prince St.), Point

8 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com