Burkeburke Homelifestylehomespring 2014 Lifestyle

Inside BurkeBurke HomeLifeStyleHomeSpring 2014 LifeStyle

Bryan Burris Bryan Burke Photo by Photo Cavaliers,Cavaliers, www.ConnectionNewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC online at www.connectionnewspapers.comHomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 ❖ 1 HomeHome LifeStyleLifeLifeStyleStyle

Follow on Twitter: @BurkeConnection on Twitter: Follow BruinsBruins FallFall inin StateState Woodson sophomore Matt Ayoub scored 14 points during a loss to Landstown in the 6A state semifinals on March 8 at Robinson Secondary School.

Classified, Page 17 Classified, Semifinals ❖ Semifinals Sports,Sports, PagePage 1616

Sports, Page 16

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Entertainment, Page 15

A Debt to FIRST Robotics Team Prepping Society for Competition News, Page 9 News, Page 4

Photo by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection

www.ConnectionNewspapers.comMarch 13-19, 2014 online at www.connectionnewspapers.comBurke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected]

(From left) are seniors Rachel Chalkley, (From left) Robyn Smith, Senior Robyn Fran Mahon Smith explains and Lindsay Active Minds Laiks at the while Lindsay Active Minds Laiks, Rachel information Chalkley, table. Karen Garza and Kim Photo by Bonnie Hobbs/The Connection Dockery listen. Help Offered in the Wake of Tragedy Organizations provide Photos by Bonnie Hobbs/The Connection information, guidance.

By Bonnie Hobbs The group helps teenagers ‘Proud of Our Young People at Woodson’ The Connection deal with adversity and build resilience. It does so by listen- FCPS informs parents Department, told parents she’s contacted the Virginia oodson parent ing to them and by establish- Health Department and the Centers for Disease Con- W Karen Cogan called ing positive relationships within trol “to make sure we’re not missing anything.” the March 5 meet- the community to focus on com- about support for teens. MaryAnn Panarelli, director of FCPS’ Office of In- ing “a good first start. A lot of mon strengths and abilities. For tervention and Prevention, thanked the social work- us were here to band together more information, see https:// By Bonnie Hobbs ers and counselors “who’ve been working so hard and let everyone know we’re www.facebook.com/groups/ The Connection with your children, the past week or two.” She also there for each other.” CommunityofSolutions/. acknowledged the social workers and counselors who “It was a great community At another table, four stu- t was standing room only last week in Woodson came from other jurisdictions to help, as well. turnout, and I appreciated the dents explained Active Minds, High’s auditorium when some 1,100 people, “They go to the classes the person [who died] was school-system support services a school organization that raises Imainly parents, gathered for comfort and ad- in,” she explained. “They also reach out to students being here to give us some guid- awareness of and de-stigmatizes vice in the aftermath of two student deaths. who may have had a loss, themselves, and are par- ance,” she said. “They told us mental illness. It encourages Principal Jeff Yost welcomed them and later re- ticularly vulnerable. If a student is especially dis- what’s available to parents and both hope and help. “We assess ceived a standing ovation when Douglas Tyson, as- tressed, they tell the parents. And at the end of the kids and what [comprises] a students for any risk or crisis, sistant superintendent of Cluster III, praised the job day, all members of the Crisis Response Team make crisis team.” listen non-judgmentally and, he’s done at the school. First, though, FCPS Superin- a list of students we’re concerned about and want to Parents also gave written an- when necessary, encourage tendent Karen Garza addressed the crowd. follow up on later to offer additional support.” swers to questions they’d re- them to get professional help,” “I’m a parent of four children, and there’s nothing ceived before the meeting. They said senior Rachel Chalkley. more heartbreaking than to hear about the untimely OFTEN, students or parents will tell the team mem- shared their ideas to better sup- “What we do helps foster a posi- death of a child or learn about anyone who’s suffer- bers about other students they should talk to, and port students, plus what re- tive environment.” ing,” she said. “We support you and want to help they do. “So there are several layers of active sup- sources could help. Students For example, they’ve held a you build on the great work that’s been done here.” port available,” said Panarelli. “We work with groups answered similar questions. yoga class to promote mindful- Tyson thanked Woodson’s teachers for always help- of kids and tell them there’s a natural process for Regarding the mood in the ness and gave out hot chocolate ing students do their best, and the parents, for at- grief, but it’s different for everybody.” “Some kids school these days, junior Jack to students returning from win- tending the March 5 meeting. “If we’re going to over- Jacobs said, “I think everyone’s ter break. “It was to spread joy come and prevent these things in the future, we all See Woodson, Page 5 doing a great job of being sup- and help people have a better have to work together,” he portive, caring and listening time at school,” said senior said. “[And] it’s important to when anyone needs to talk. To- Lindsay Laiks. commend our students for night was very good. It was nice The group’s a year old and keeping a positive mindset. to hear how everyone in the meets once or twice a month. We’re proud of our young school system and School Board “It gets people to be more com- people here at Woodson, and cares about us and have come fortable discussing mental we adults need your help to together to help.” health,” said Laiks. “It isn’t better learn how to provide After the meeting, parents re- talked about the same way a for you.” ceived crisis and suicide-pre- broken arm is, but we want to Kim Dockery, assistant su- vention cards with information, show people it’s OK to do that.” perintendent for Special Ser- plus phone numbers they and She, too, was glad people vices and a parent of students can call for help. Par- came together as a community Woodson grads, said, “The ents also visited 15 information to exchange ideas. In school, things we’re facing are com- tables in the cafeteria to learn she said, “Students are trying to plex issues; tonight’s the first about several resources. show each other that every part of the conversation.” At the Community of Solu- person’s cared about. There’s a Noting Fairfax County’s many tions table, co-founder Carol sense of community. It’s defi- resources, Dockery added, Davis said, “We started this or- nitely tough, but we’re coming “We’re a community that ganization last year after the together. Things may be hard in takes care of our most pre- third [Woodson] suicide. We the moment, but we have to cious asset, our children.” average five teens and 20 adults remember that life continues on Dr. Gloria Addo-Ayensu, di- per meeting.” – we just have to keep going.” rector of the county Health People in the audience introduce themselves to each other. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 3 News

Members of the RTR Team Robotics prepare for the upcoming regional competition on March 27.

Photos by Janelle Germanos/The Connection FIRST Robotics Team Prepping for Competition

Students build robots, munity members also supervise the long practice sessions. use passion For several years in the past, the teams worked in garages or other small spaces. for engineering. This year, they say they were lucky to receive a donated space by Shirley Contract- By Janelle Germanos ing. The Connection The FIRST Robotics requires teams to solve a problem within a six-week time pe- very Monday, Friday and Satur- riod, building a robot which will then enter day, members of the AIM Robot- into a competition. This year’s competition Eics and RTR Team Robotics meet is “Aerial Assist.” in Lorton to prepare for the up- “It’s great working with the young stu- coming Greater D.C. Regional competition dents,” said Deanne Mahoney, who has been on March 27. a parent volunteer for seven years. The teams, both part of FIRST Robotics, According to Gary Beaver, the team al- share a space provided by Shirley Contract- ways has room for more mentors. ing. Students work on parts, coding and “Mentors come here because it is more more to prepare for the competition. fun than their regular weekly job,” Beaver Ryan Beaver, a senior at Robinson Sec- said. ondary School, is co-captain of AIM Robot- Co-captains of the teams say they are ics. AIM stands for Autodidactic Intelligent pretty prepared for the upcoming competi- Minors, and the team consists of students tion. Both teams have grown this year, from public and private schools around the which means time was spent teaching new area, as well as home-schoolers. students and getting them up to speed. “I joined and fell in love,” Beaver said. Several members of the team, including Andrew Peace, the team’s other co-cap- the co-captains, say they are interested in tain, is a home-schooled student who joined pursuing robotics and engineering as a ca- due to an interest in engineering. reer and hope to study these programs in “You learn a lot when you come in,” Peace college. said. “They are learning things here that stu- Ragav Goyal, a senior at West Springfield dents in college learn,” Beaver said. High School, and David Kitrinos, a junior A couple of Fairfax County schools have at West Springfield, are co-captains of the robotic teams, but FIRST is the only com- RTR Team. munity-based group that allows students in “I really wanted to get some hands-on ninth grade to join. experience,” Kitrinos said. Teamwork is a big part of being involved Hands-on learning is part of the FIRST in FIRST. At the competition, the teams are Robotics experience. Each team builds a paired up with other teams and have to robot and learns from professional engi- work together to complete the challenges. neers who mentor the team. The Washington, D.C. Regional Competi- Students work alongside mentors who tion will be on March 27-29 at the Patriot work in the engineering field or have been Center in Fairfax. The event is free and open on the team in the past. Parents and com- to the public.

Ragav Goyal, David Kitrinos, Andrew Peace, and Ryan Beaver, co-captains of RTR Team Robot- ics and AIM Robotics, pose together at their practice space in Lorton.

4 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 5 Area Roundups

Register at https:// Disaster Resiliency 2014summit.eventbrite.com. This event is sponsored by Volunteer Fairfax, Fairfax Summit County’s Neighborhood and Community The Fairfax County Community Collabo- Services and Faith Communities in Action. ration Summit for Disaster Resiliency is designed for organizations that provide day- to-day support to Fairfax County commu- ‘Do You See nity members and will give them sustained support when a disaster strikes. The sum- What I See?’ mit will be held Tuesday, March 25, from 8 Fairfax-based charity Our Daily Bread is a.m.-3:30 p.m., at Mount Olive Baptist seeking submissions of artwork and perfor- Church, 6600 Old Centreville Road in mance proposals for its 30th anniversary Centreville. celebration, “Do You See What I See?” Sub- Entities such as faith- and community- missions are due by March 24. The event based organizations, disaster volunteer will be held May 2 in Fairfax in coopera- groups, residential-management groups, tion with Fairfax Spotlight for the Arts. In- civic associations and representatives from formation and applications are at the private, public and nonprofit sectors www.ODBFairfax.org. Contact 703-273- involved in disaster recovery, should attend. 8829 or [email protected]. Weichert, Realtors’ Burke/Fairfax Station Office Recognizes Top Associate Bruce L. Green, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors, announced Sales As- sociate Youssef Zeroual of the Burke/Fairfax Stationºoffice was individually recognized for his exceptional industry success during the month of December. A top producer, Zeroualºled the region, which comprises offices throughout Fairfax, Loudoun, Fauquier and Delaware counties, in resales. This top neighborhood specialist can be reached in Weichert’s Burke/Fairfax Stationºoffice at 9299 Old Keene Mill Road or by phone at 703-569-7870. Youssef Zeroual Faith Notes

Send notes to the Connection at south@ 703-503-4579 and ask for Reverend Scott connectionnewspapers.com or call 703-778-9416. Sammler-Michael Deadline is Friday. Dated announcements should be Fairfax Baptist Temple, at the corner of submitted at least two weeks prior to the event. Fairfax County Parkway and Burke Lake Roads, holds a bible study fellowship at 9 a.m. Sundays The Cancer Treatment Centers of followed by a 10 a.m. worship service. Nursery care America, sponsored by the Cancer Support and children’s church also provided. 6401 Mission- Team, Ministry of Greater Little Baptist ary Lane, Fairfax Station, 703-323-8100 or Church, Fairfax, will present “Restore: The Jour- www.fbtministries.org. ney Toward Self Forgiveness & Physical Health” on Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Greater The Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center, 10875 Little Zion Baptist Church, 10185 Zion Drive, Main St., Fairfax City provides free classes to both Fairfax. This is a free event. To RSVP, call the newcomers and advanced practitioners of Tibetan church at 703-764-9111 or email Cancer Support Buddhism. The center emphasizes working with the Team Ministry at [email protected] mind and learning how to understand the workings The speaker will be Rev. Dr. Michael Barry au- of the mind, overcoming innner causes of suffering, thor of the Forgiveness Project and Director of while cultivating causes of happiness. Under the di- Pastoral Care at Cancer Treatment Centers of rection of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, the center is a place America in Philadelphia, Pa. of study, contemplation and meditation. Visit http:/ /www.guhyasamaja.org for more information. The Effects of Mass Incarceration: A Pub- lic Forum on Criminal Justice Sentencing Lord of Life Lutheran offers services at two Reform will be held on Sunday, April 6, 2 - 4 p.m. locations, in Fairfax at 5114 Twinbrook Road and at Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church, 10125 in Clifton at 13421 Twin Lakes Drive. Services in Lakehaven Drive, Burke. The panelists include state Fairfax are held on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sen. Dave Marsden, the Sentencing Project’s Sundays at 8:30 and 10 a.m. Services in Clifton are Nazgol Ghandnoosh, Fairfax’s Deputy County Ex- held on Sundays at 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. 703-323- ecutive David Rohrer. They will engage these 9500 or www.Lordoflifeva.org. concerns: the United States has more people in jail than any nation in the history of the world. Unin- First Baptist Church of Springfield offers tended consequences of this Mass Incarceration are Sunday school at 9:15 a.m., followed by a 10:30 especially devastating to poor communities of a.m. worship service at 7300 Gary St., Springfield. color. Young African-American Men are more likely 703-451-1500 or www.fbcspringfield.org. to go to jail than to college. Many drug offenders are discriminated against in housing, voting and Clifton Presbyterian Church, 12748 education after they have served their sentences. Richards Lane, Clifton, offers Sunday worship ser- How do we minimize the human costs of the Drug vices at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Nursery care is War and Mass Incarceration and fix this crisis? For provided. Christian education for all ages is at 9:45 more info got to www.accotinkuuc.org - or call a.m. 703-830-3175.

6 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 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.

Rabia Hassan of Fairfax graduated with a master’s degree in criminal justice from Boston University.

Hannah L. Moody, of Fairfax Station, graduated from Boston University with a Master of Science in bio- medical forensic sciences. The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Martin VanderHoeven, Fairfax County Corps son of Marianne Marsolais Presents The 34th Annual and Edward VanderHoeven of Springfield, has enrolled Fashion Show/ Luncheon/ Silent Auction at Earlham College. Fashions Presented by Lord & Taylor of Fair Oaks A man without a Friday, April 4th, 2014 smiling face must At Ten Thirty O’Clock A.M. Waterford at Fair Oaks not open a shop. 12025 Lee Jackson Highway, Fairfax, VA —Chinese Proverb Coordinator: Angela Ganey • 703-250-5809 or [email protected]

For a free digi- DR. GENE SWEETNAM tal subscription to one or all DR. GRACE CHANG of the 15 OPTOMETRISTS Connection Newspapers, go to www.connect ionnewspapers. com/subscribe Be the first to know – get your paper before it hits the press. Complete digital replica of the TWO print edition, CONVENIENT including photos LOCATIONS and ads, deliv- • Family & Pediatric Vision Care ered weekly • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Treatment of Eye Diseases to your e-mail • 21 years Naval Service, 6 years Active Duty box. • Laser Vision Consultants • Over a thousand frames in stock Questions? • We carry all major brands of contact lenses • In-house lab E-mail: Most Insurances Accepted: goinggreen@ Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Care First, Medicare, Tricare In-network connection Doctor, Vision One Discount, Avesis, Aetna HMO/PPO/POS, PHCS, newspapers.com VSP® Network Doctor, EyeMed Vision Care, United Healthcare, VA Medicaid WE WELCOME YOUR DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION 5204A Rolling Rd. 8951 Ox Rd., Suite 100 Burke Professional Center Shoppes at Lorton Valley Burke, VA 22015 Lorton, VA 22079 703-425-2000 703-493-9910 www.drsweetnam.com • www.sightforvision.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 7 Opinion Burke

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Voting Against Virginia? @BurkeConnection An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Local proponents of expanding health coverage for poor people have a Published by Local Media Connection LLC point about those in the General Assembly voting against it. 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314

hen Delegates Scott Surovell, Editorial said Ebbin. “Real people would be helped.” Free digital edition delivered to Charniele Herring and Rob That includes working families and more than your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe WKrupicka, along with Sen. Expanding health care for poor individuals 12,000 veterans. Ebbin related the story of a Adam Ebbin got together to and families who so far have been cut out of taxi driver from his district who had a stroke NEWS DEPARTMENT: make the case for expanding Medicaid in Vir- health care reform by the General Assembly’s in his 40s. With no insurance, Mount Vernon To discuss ideas and concerns, ginia, they brought slide presentations, charts, refusal would create more than 30,000 new Inova Hospital covered his acute treatment and Call: 703-778-9410 spreadsheets, poll results and more. jobs, hundreds of jobs in every district in the recovery. But without insurance, his access to e-mail: [email protected] It is a compelling argument that expanding state. It would bring in $5 million in Federal rehabilitation was limited and as a result, his Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act is not dollars every day, $1.8 billion a year. It would lifetime expectations are likely limited. Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 only good for the health of working poor Vir- save the General Fund $285 million over the Saying no to $5 million a day is, in fact, vot- [email protected] ginians, it’s good for the health of Virginia’s biannual budget, money that could be spent ing against Virginia. Amna Rehmatulla economy. What’s more, polls show that Virgin- on education, mental health and other critical Editorial Assistant ians support expanding Medicaid, even Virgin- priorities. — Mary Kimm, 703-778-9410 ext.427 ians who didn’t vote for Gov. Terry McAuliffe. “Real people are suffering because of this,” [email protected] [email protected] Victoria Ross Letters to the Editor County Reporter 301-502-6027 [email protected] rare visitor. Protecting the As U.S. citizens we can work to Jon Roetman Sports Editor protect our part of the Arctic, 703-778-9410 Arctic Wildlife which includes the Arctic National [email protected] To the Editor: Wildlife Refuge. The Coastal Plain @jonroetman The influx of snowy owls this of the Arctic National Wildlife Ref- winter to the Lower 48 has uge is a vital sanctuary to birds ADVERTISING: For advertising information everybody talking, and here in that migrate through all 50 states e-mail: Northern Virginia it’s no different. and nearly every continent of the [email protected] Given the unusual migration, globe. Photo by Donald Sweig Steve Hogan many people have been lucky We can do our part by support- A Snowy Owl settled on top of a parking lot light near Display Advertising, 703-778-9418 enough to have sighted one of ing efforts in Congress to ensure Springfield Mall, where it delighted onlookers for several [email protected] these beautiful birds in the wild the protection of the Coastal Plain weeks last month. Andrea Smith for the very first time. These birds of the Arctic Refuge, not only for Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 [email protected] can make amazingly long and dan- the birds, polar bears and caribou the Refuge as well. It would show protect it, S. 1695. gerous journeys from their sum- who rely on it, but for all of us. I true leadership Debbie Funk National Sales mer breeding grounds in the Arc- hope Virginia’s senators – Senator and commitment to this special Corey Himrod 703-778-9444 tic, and our piece of the Arctic in Mark Warner and Senator Tim place if they would now sign on Burke [email protected] Alaska is a key sanctuary for this Kaine – will show their support for to co-sponsor the Senate bill to Alaska Wilderness League Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm More on School Budget 703-778-9433 ent is a fine idea, but the demo- a graduated scale. This is an old [email protected] To the Editor: point, I think he hit the nail right cratic machine that runs this coun- idea, but perhaps the time has @MaryKimm This letter is in response to the on the head... add to this the rap- try would never go for that for come for it to be revisited. And Executive Vice President letter published in the February 13- idly increasing number of English purely political reason. And the John Cook is 100 percent wrong Jerry Vernon 19 edition entitled: “School Budget: as a second language students- ex- idea of submitting a bill to the fed- when he says this crisis is “busi- [email protected] How to Pay?” submitted by Chris- cept that the number of children of eral government is ludicrous. But ness as usual,” unless he considers Editor in Chief topher Thompson of West Spring- illegal aliens in the system far ex- how about this- how about a school the continual decline of the qual- Steven Mauren Managing Editor field. In this letter, Thompson sug- ceeds the 6,000 number he quotes. tax based upon the number of chil- ity of the Fairfax County school Kemal Kurspahic gests that the reason for rapidly in- Minus these children there would dren enrolled in the Fairfax County system as it relates to surrounding Photography: creasing enrollment in the Fairfax be no school budget crunch and I system per household, not a real counties as “business as usual.” Deb Cobb, Louise Krafft, Craig Sterbutzel County schools is the rapidly in- agree that those who are here or estate tax per house? Or a combi- Art/Design: creasing number of children of ille- remain here must be educated. nation thereof? Certainly every tax Richard Cheadle Laurence Foong, John Heinly Production Manager: gal aliens in the system. Up to this Proving legal status of one par- payer would pay something, but on Burke Geovani Flores

Special Assistant to the Publisher Jeanne Theismann Taking Exception on Medicaid trillion debt that is growing daily. Medicaid patients. 703-778-9436 To the Editor: sion population already have pri- Plus, there is no assurance the fed- Virginia taxpayers should not [email protected] The Editorial in last week’s Con- vate health insurance eral government will pay as much have to pay more for an already @TheismannMedia nection [“Taking the Money”] does ❖ Anyone earning less than the as it has said it would to the states failing Medicaid program infa- not include important facts about 138 percent above the poverty because the rules of Obamacare mous for providing substandard CIRCULATION: 703-778-9426 Circulation Manager: the risks of expanding Medicaid in level would be mandated to lose are changing almost daily at the care and being ripe with fraud. Ann Oliver Virginia: their private insurance and go whim of the president. Government-controlled healthcare [email protected] ❖ Currently Medicaid is already onto Medicaid which provides less In addition, Medicaid condemns has caused costs to go up since its 22 percent of the Virginia budget care. those in the program to long waits inception in the 1960s. It’s time to ❖ Expanding Medicaid reduces As to Virginia expanding Med- in emergency rooms to get even look at free-market alternatives to funds for other Virginia programs icaid to get increased federal fund- routine care. Plus, it pays doctors providing medical care in America. - schools, safety, other medical, ing, the U.S. government has also little and requires so much pa- etc. ready run out of “other people’s perwork that many physicians can Susan Lider ❖ 40 to 60percent in the expan- money” with its more than $17 not afford to see more than a few Clifton

8 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News A Debt to Society Local governments use debt as a tool to build for the future.

By Michael Lee Pope actually lower than Arlington or Alexandria. The Connection Financial reports show that local governments across Northern Virginia have been ack in the 1920s, Harry Byrd be- taking on increasing debt in recent years, came governor of Virginia on and some believe that trend might acceler- Bwhat he called a “pay-as-you-go” ate in the near future. Because Congress is platform. Byrd had an almost considering eliminating some exemptions pathological hatred of debt, fueled in part for income tax on municipal bonds, local by mounting debt problems of his family’s governments might consider taking on business. Now, almost a century later, lead- larger amounts of debt in the near future ers across Northern Virginia have a very dif- to take advantage of lower interest rates. ferent view about the role debt should play “There are some clouds gathering on the in balancing the books. Local governments horizon that will impose significantly across Virginia have taken on more than $8 greater increases in costs for borrowing to billion in debt. issue bonds to finance long-term improve- “Some jurisdictions are having to be more ments,” said Frank Shafroth, director of the careful with their debt load as they are small Center for State and Local Leadership. “Lo- and have a weak real estate base,” said cal governments are asking themselves if Stephen Fuller, director of the Center for they want to risk deferring borrowing know- Regional Analysis at George Mason Univer- ing it might carry a much higher interest sity. “Others see that having high quality in- rate.” frastructure is the best way to support a Per capita debt. growing economy that will enable them to GOVERNMENT LEADERS say the old pay off the debt.” Byrd philosophy of “pay-as-you-go” is a relic and how much value is tied to land in the are taken on increasing amounts of debt, Fairfax County has the largest debt by far, of the past in much the same way as the jurisdiction. they argue that it’s all relative to the amount almost $4 billion. But Fairfax also has more policy of racial segregation associated with “All the Northern Virginia jurisdictions are of money the jurisdiction raises each year people than any of the other jurisdictions. the Byrd machine. Although government of- looking at the same metrics — they can’t So the county’s per capita debt burden is ficials acknowledge that local governments exceed a three percent limit of outstanding See Demands, Page 11

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 9 News Woodson Finds Support in Crisis From Page 3 may have difficulty sleeping, con- centrating or being motivated,” Photos by she continued. “One may be angry, while another is quiet. But

they need to be respectful and Bonnie Hobbs empathetic of each other’s feel- ings. As difficult as this time is, your kids are strong and they’ll work through it. Let them know

you’re there for them. Avoid gen- /The Connection eralizing this as part of a pattern; each tragedy is a situation unto itself.” Panarelli also advised parents to Photo courtesy of the Office of Delegate Filler-Corn “Let your children know it’s OK to Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn presenting legislation laugh and have a good time and during the 2014 General Assembly Session. not feel guilty. It’s our natural way FCPS Superintendent Karen of dealing, and it’s OK to forget for Garza Parent Bob Phillips dis- a minute and go on. Grief comes cusses Community of Del. Filler-Corn Passes and goes. Do low-key activities as Solutions. a family; it’s reassuring and Legislation for Military Spouses doesn’t demand a lot of energy House Bill 1247, aimed at re- This bill aims to ease that bur- from them.” ducing burdensome red tape for den.” If necessary, she said, reach out military spouses, has passed the Virginia currently employs to a school counselor, school psy- House of Delegates and Senate the second highest number of chologist or social worker. “De- with unanimous bipartisan sup- active-duty military out of the pression is a treatable mental ill- port and now awaits signature 50 states. A wide variety of pro- ness, not a flaw in a person and from the Governor. Sponsored fessionals are required to have not something to be ashamed of,” by Del. Eileen Filler-Corn (D- state-issued licenses in order to said Panarelli. “Discuss with your 41) and supported by the Ad- work in their field. This bill af- children how you’d respond if they ministration, HB 1247 would fects everyone from realtors, told you they’re depressed, in- require the Department of Pro- barbers, accountants, to con- volved in substance abuse or hav- fessional and Occupational struction workers. ing other troubles, so they won’t Regulation to expedite the re- “Every day that military fear coming to you for help.” view process for temporary li- spouses must wait to receive a “Encourage your child to deter- censes from 30 to 20 days for license for a profession that they mine three adults he or she could MaryAnn Panarelli said military spouses that already are already approved to practice talk to about things, because everyone grieves differ- Cluster III head Douglas hold the equivalent license in in another state is another day sometimes that’s easier,” she con- ently. Tyson another state. that they are unable to earn in- tinued. “Or they can talk to their “Our military servicemen and come, support their family, and friends. But you can be proud of thing wrong. “They worry, ‘Will servicewomen sacrifice so much contribute to Virginia’s your children; they’ve responded “Your kids are people be angry at me? Will I be for their country every single economy” said Filler-Corn. “This [to these tragedies] with resil- strong and they’ll ostracized? Will the police come?’” day. Many military spouses are bill will reduce the time it takes ience, grace and compassion and he said. But the Fairfax-Falls often forced to leave successful for military spouses to receive banded together in groups for work through it.” Church Community Services careers behind and face exces- temporary licenses for their pro- comfort. Let them know you’re Board has trained 40 students, so sive red tape preventing them fessions, thereby dramatically proud of them.” — MaryAnn Panarelli, far, to identify teens with problems from resettling in their chosen reducing their financial and Fairfax County Prevention Man- FCPS Office of Intervention and refer them to helpful re- profession upon relocation. emotional burdens.” ager Jesse Ellis makes sure every- and Prevention sources. thing possible is being done to help “We’re putting together a pack- students. “Last year, county and Ellis, “We as a community are do- age so parents can more easily school staff identified recommen- ing well – our suicide rates are the access these resources,” he told dations regarding suicide preven- lowest in the state because our them. “You’re the solution to help A Public Forum on tion and put together a team to kids have neighbors, teachers and solve this.” look at suicide incidents,” he said. friends to turn to. But we need to School Board members Megan Mass Incarceration “Each is unique, but has lessons do that better. We have great McLaughlin (Braddock District), The Effects of Mass Incarceration: A Public Forum on Criminal we can learn as we move forward.” people in the community and, if Elizabeth Schultz (Springfield), Justice Sentencing Reform will be held on Sunday, April 6, 2 - 4 Ellis said activities strengthen- we build on that, we can make an Ilryong Moon (chairman) and Ted p.m. at Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church, 10125 Lakehaven ing the bonds students have with even bigger difference.” Velkoff (at-large) also attended. Drive, Burke. The panelists include state Sen. Dave Marsden, the their communities help prevent “Until we get parents involved, “We’re so fortunate to have all Sentencing Project’s Nazgol Ghandnoosh, Fairfax’s Deputy County suicides. “When we talk about sui- we won’t solve these problems,” these services here in Fairfax Executive David Rohrer. They will engage these concerns: the cide prevention, we’re talking added Woodson parent Bob County,” said Velkoff afterward. United States has more people in jail than any nation in the his- about parents, neighbors, Scout Phillips. “Carol Davis and I formed He was also pleased that Panarelli tory of the world. Unintended consequences of this mass incar- and church leaders, coaches, etc.,” Community of Solutions. We saw described how FCPS responds to ceration are especially devastating to poor communities of color. he said. “And we need to make what worked in other communi- student tragedies. Young African-American men are more likely to go to jail than to sure you have the skills and re- ties with similar problems, looked “I was struck by the pro-active college. Many drug offenders are discriminated against in hous- sources to do that effectively. We at several organizations and in- communication they do when they ing, voting and education after they have served their sentences. want to develop strategies to em- cluded students to hear their con- come into a school,” he said. “I was How do we minimize the human costs of the drug war and mass power you with the knowledge to cerns.” also impressed with Dr. Garza’s incarceration and fix this crisis? do this well.” Phillips said teens told them leadership; I thought this meeting For more info got to www.accotinkuuc.org - or call 703-503- their biggest fear is what will hap- was approached with humanity to 4579 and ask for Reverend Scott Sammler-Michael. ON THE BRIGHT SIDE, said pen to them when they do some- let people know we care.”

10 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

CARDIOLOGY Demands Dictate the Debt DERMATOLOGY From Page 9 EMERGENCY/ of the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee CRITICAL CARE debt as a percent of assessed value, and annual sounded the alarm that the city was actually on track debt payments can’t exceed 10 percent of their total to violate its debt ceiling even without calculating INTERNAL MEDICINE budget,” said Joe LaHait, debt coordinator for Fairfax the massive borrowing that would be needed to fi- NEUROLOGY County. “Those two metrics are strongly abided by, nance the Metro station, which could be anywhere and they are constantly monitored by the bond rat- from $200 million to $400 million. That means bor- ONCOLOGY ing agencies who ultimately provide the ratings to rowing money to build the station would violate the every single jurisdiction in the state.” city’s debt policy at least temporarily. RADIATION Arlington County has one of the highest per capita “The idea was, I think, to make an exception that ONCOLOGY debt loads in Northern Virginia, an indication that would be paid down and then go back to the guide- county leaders are willing to use its bonding author- lines — in other words break the guidelines,” said RADIOLOGY ity to borrow money to construct everything from James Bulter, former chairman of the Alexandria schools to a new aquatics center at Long Bridge Park. Budget and Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee. “But REHABILITATIVE THERAPY Supporters of the county’s efforts say the bond rat- I believe that they should carefully examine their ing agencies approve because Arlington has an Aaa/ options because the debt policy has a real meaning, SURGERY AAA/AAA credit rating. Arlington is one of the few and it should be followed if at all possible.” jurisdictions in America to have a triple-triple A credit Local governments are not alone in trying to bor- RADIOCAT rating, a distinction it’s held for 13 consecutive years. row money to balance the books. Last year, the com- Centers for The “You could make a reasonable argument, I think, monwealth of Virginia’s total debt increased to $37.3 Treatment of Feline Hyperthyroidism that we have got a number of different programs billion, an increase of $1.1 billion, or 3.2 percent. doing the same things sometimes and you could prob- According to a study by the nonpartisan State Bud- ably streamline some things in Arlington. There’s no get Solutions, that means each private sector worker doubt about that,” said Robert Hynes, a member of in Virginia has a state debt burden of more than the Fiscal Affairs Advisory Commission. “But I also $21,000. And the federal government problems with do not think there’s a lot of great waste in the money debt are well known. they spend. They spend it well I think.” “My own personal debt concerns me, so certainly the debt of my county does as well,” said Ed Batten, ONE POTENTIAL drawback for local governments a member of the Lee District Budget Advisory Group. deciding to take on more debt is the risk of violating “But when I look at what the demands are in this self-imposed debt limits. In Alexandria, for example, county, the human demands as well as what’s going city leaders are trying to find a way to finance a new on in the economy, I think that what we are doing is Metro station at Potomac Yard. Last year, members the best we can do given the circumstances.”

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eorge Braunstein said he entered the Photo Contributed important about field of mental health services almost George Braunstein serving these Gaccidentally. is retiring from his “My first college degree was in his- position of execu- tory and education. I was going to be a high school tive director at the very vulnerable history teacher,” Braunstein said. Fairfax-Falls people.” His plans changed after finishing with the Coast Church Community Guard during the Vietnam War, and there weren’t Services Board. — George Braunstein as many teaching jobs available as he expected. Met Life, Delta, BCBS/Carefirst “I had always had a desire to do some form of pub- spective for reporters and the community. and United Concordia Provider lic service. Somebody suggested, why don’t you try “He was able to remind people that individuals with nursing? I didn’t think I had any aptitude for any- serious mental illness are far more likely to wind up Weekdays • Saturdays • Evenings thing to do with the medical field, but I tried it, and being victims of violent crime, rather than perpetra- 24 Hour Emergency Care I did fairly well,” Braunstein said. tors, and to remind people about the importance of Braunstein’s first job was working as a nurse in a putting in place community services that can help multi-county inpatient mental health facility in Wis- people before they reach a crisis stage,” Buescher 5631-B Burke Centre Parkway consin, eventually becoming the administrator and said. “He was able to put an issue like the impor- Burke, VA 22015 manager in 1986. tance of having emergency psychiatric hospital beds, “I ended up eventually running the place because which is important, into perspective and remind 4600 John Marr Dr., Suite #401 I had some previous management experiences,” he people that it is not the only solution to our prob- Annandale, VA 22003 said. lems with not having sufficient services for people Now, Braunstein is retiring from his role as execu- with mental illness.” 8998-E Lorton Station Blvd. tive director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community According to Jane Woods, a board member of the Lorton, VA 22079 Services Board, a public agency that provides ser- Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, vices for members of the community with mental ill- Braunstein has worked tirelessly with staff on trans- • Free Initial Exam ness, substance use disorders, and intellectual dis- forming the mindset of the agency and making the abilities. client the center of services. • 40+ Years Experience Since becoming CSB’s director in 2008, colleagues “The essence of the changes we’ve done in Fairfax • Two Board Certified Orthodontists say Braunstein has worked tirelessly to inform the in the last five years is creating an environment that • In Network Providers for MetLife, public of the need for community mental health ser- supports getting people who are homeless into hous- Delta Dental & United Concordia vices. ing, providing a wrap-around service for those “George is a master at being able to succinctly de- people, providing more job training, and providing scribe for news reporters and for the general public more integrated health care, so that people who the big picture and the importance of what we do at haven’t been to a primary care doctor for years can the Community Services Board and how important get primary care services,” Braunstein said. these services are for the most vulnerable people in Braunstein’s most satisfying experience at CSB has 703-750-9393 our local community,” said Belinda Buescher, com- been working with what he describes as dedicated, www.dutson-ellisortho.com munications director for the CSB. skilled and caring staff and providers. Braunstein’s ability to remain calm and focused in “The Fairfax providers are so skilled and so effec- stressful times was evident in November 2013, when tive. They deal with some of the most challenging To advertise, please call Buescher said the unfortunate Creigh Deeds tragedy Steve Hogan at 703-778-9418 gave Braunstein the opportunity to put things in per- See Braunstein, Page 13

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12 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Braunstein Retiring as CSB Executive Director

From Page 12 Braunstein said a frustrating part of working in situations because of where we are in the greater the mental health field has been challenging the idea D.C. area. We have a lot of folks with very complex that problems such as drug and alcohol addiction problems, a combination of urban and suburban is- are a weakness of character. sues, and the staff is just fantastic to work with, both “Probably the most difficult part of working in the in administration and the service delivery areas,” he mental health field is that it has taken an awful long said. time even making short strides so that people un- According to Braunstein, government officials like derstand the legitimacy of the services that we do, Chairman Sharon Bulova understand the need for and see it as equally valid as any other services in local funding for mental health services. the health care field,” he said. “Not all local government officials get it. This is Mary Ann Bergeron, the executive director of the really unique here. Even compared to some other Virginia Association of Community Services Board, surrounding localities, Fairfax for the most part gets said Braunstein has been a great leader ever since what is important about serving these very vulner- moving to Virginia in 2000. able people,” Braunstein said. “It’s really rare for “He is a master at taking very complex issues, and someone in the public sector to find local govern- being able to identify solutions to an issue,” Bergeron ment officials who understand.” said. “He’s been a wonderful source of inspiration.” Bulova presented Braunstein with a proclamation Braunstein’s colleagues say his leadership and guid- honoring his contributions to the CSB, and declared ance will be missed as he retires. Feb. 27, 2014 to be George Braunstein day in Fairfax “George was at the helm of the CSB’s transforma- County. tion from a siloed system that offered specific ser- According to Bulova’s proclamation, Braunstein vices for certain diagnoses into an integrated system “has steered the CSB through a major organizational based that supports the whole person based upon transformation, pioneered nationally recognized best the level of care he or she needs, with a focus on practices throughout the service system, and advo- helping all individuals gain access to cross-cutting cated with courage, skill and tenacity for services to services such as primary care, housing, employment meet the needs of the most vulnerable people in our and peer supports,” said Jeannie Cummins, invest- community.” ment and development manager at the CSB.

REGISTER Bulletin Board NOW! Send notes to the Connection at Fairfax. Thousands of gently-read Find Your Children Safe & Sound [email protected] or books and nonbook media call 703-778-9416. The deadline for organized into categories submissions is the Friday prior to pub- including picture books, early lication. Dated announcements should readers, nonfiction, holiday, KIDDIE COUNTRY be submitted at least two weeks prior chapter books and more. $.25- to the event. $2.00. Some specials $3 and $4. DEVELOPMENTAL LEARNING CENTER Fairfax County Mothers of THURSDAY/MARCH 13 Multiples Semi-Annual Corporate Gary Job Fair. 9 a.m. – Consignment Sale. 9 a.m. - 1 12:30 p.m. The Waterford in p.m. The nZone, 14550 Lee Road, DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE SCHOOL YEAR AND SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS Springfield, 6715 Commerce Chantilly. 200+ families will be Designed to provide a complete, happy, safe learning environment Street, Springfield. The company’s selling gently used clothing, in harmony with the needs of the child. career events attract a wide variety shoes, toys, books for the whole of employers that want to hire family. Find good deals on infant, CHILDREN AGES 2-5 military veterans and spouses, toddler, school age, ‘tween, teen, Full (6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.) and half day (9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.) programs including large organizations like and adult apparel. http:// SPECIAL FEATURES Coca-Cola, Lockheed Martin, www.fcmom.org/ Developmental Curriculum • Degreed Teachers • Registered Nurse • Music Director • Nutritious Hewlett-Packard, Engility, State Spring 2014 Burke Centre Used Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks • Heated Swimming Pools • Spacious Shaded Playgrounds Farm, the National Security Book Sale. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. T. Agency, and the Virginia Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds • Planned Orientations and Presentations for Parents • State Licensed Department of Transportation. Oak Road, Burke. This sale is one Spring 2014 Burke Centre Used of the 3 large annual sales with Book Sale. 1 – 9 p.m. T. Burke all genres represented in the BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak roughly 8,000 books for sale PLUS KINDERGARTEN Road, Burke. This sale is one of media like DVDs, CDs, AGES SIX-ELEVEN YEARS Registrations are now being accepted for the the three large annual sales with audiobooks, and more. GRADES 1-6 2013-2014 School Year. Two Virginia certified all genres represented in the Girl Scout Cookie Booths. 10 Transportation provided to Terra Centre, teachers per classroom. Program emphasizes roughly 8,000 books for sale PLUS a.m. -12 p.m. PETCO, 9230 Old Fairview, White Oaks, and Cherry Run language arts, math, computer literacy, science, media like DVDs, CDs, Keene Mill Rd, Burke. Troop 1791 Elementary Schools. Emphasis on special social studies, social development, art, music audiobooks, and more. will be collecting cookie events, sports, time for homework, and student’s and physical development. donations for T2T Programs that choice of activities. send cookies to soldiers overseas. FRIDAY/MARCH 14 Sugar, Sex, and Poison: Spring 2014 Burke Centre Used Shocking Plant Secrets FULL DAY SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM AGES SIX TO ELEVEN YEARS Book Sale. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. T. Caught on Camera. 10:30- Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds 11:30 a.m. Green Spring Gardens, Program is organized into weekly themes packed with FANTASTIC FIELD TRIPS, A Oak Road, Burke. This sale is one 4603 Green Spring Road, SENSATIONAL OVERNIGHT CAMP OUT, DAILY SWIMMING, SPORTS, DANCING, of the 3 large annual sales with Alexandria. Award winning director MUSIC, AND AN END OF THE SUMMER “SMASH” MUSICAL PRODUCTION BY all genres represented in the of Coastal Maine Botanical Garden, roughly 8,000 books for sale PLUS Bill Cullina, shows how this world OUR CAMPERS FOR THEIR FAMILIES. media like DVDs, CDs, of pollen, poisons, pigments, audiobooks, and more. pheromones, sugars and sex KIDDIE COUNTRY I Come See Our KIDDIE COUNTRY II translates to sound organic Burke Centre Award-Winning Facilities! Burke-Springfield practices that benefit us all. Fairfax Station (Fairfax) (Both Schools Winners Fairfax Station (Lorton) SATURDAY/MARCH 15 of American Institute Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ 6000 Schoolhouse Woods Rd. of Architects Awards) 9601 Old Keene Mill Rd. Fairfax City Regional Library parks/greenspring or call Green Burke, Virginia 22015 Burke, Virginia 22015 Children’s Book Sale. 10 a.m. Spring Gardens 703-642-5173. 703-250-6550 703-644-0066 -3 p.m. 10360 North Street, $18/person www.kiddiecountry.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 13 Happy St. Catrick’s Day! News You’ve heard about St. Patrick who drove the snakes out of Ireland‚ but did you know about St. Catrick, who saved the kittens out of shelters? Now’s your chance to find out! Join Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation for a St. Catrick’s Day celebration, and learn how you can help save lives. Award-winning Composer = Foster Crew Members will answer questions about the most important thing you can do to help. = Adoption Center Coordinators will provide Coming to Fairfax information about volunteering at PetSmart centers. = Our Transport Coordinator will explain how you can help with little more than some time and a car. The Fairfax Choral Society is sponsoring a Charlie, delivered by St. Catrick, is available for adoption Join us at Lost Dog Café-McLean Morten Lauridsen residency, March 20-23. Saturday, March 15, 3-7 p.m. Enjoy snacks & By Janelle Germanos soft drinks while learning how you can help. sity of Southern California. When he was a junior, The Connection 1690 Anderson Road, McLean (near Safeway) he met with the head of composition and asked to take a class. www.lostdogandcatrescue.org orten Lauridsen, a renowned choral “I was virtually 20 years old. I had not written a composer who is the subject of the note as a composer. I simply wanted to take a class M2012 award-winning documentary to see what it was like,” Lauridsen said. “Shining Night” and who was named After that, Lauridsen said a brand new world had an “American Choral Master” by the National Endow- opened up before him. ment for the Arts in 2006, is coming to Fairfax next Lauridsen’s works have been recorded on over 200 week. CDs. Michael Stillwater’s documentary “Shining The Fairfax Choral Society is sponsoring a four- Night,” a portrait of Lauridsen, has drawn in not only day residency for the 2007 National Medal of Arts those interested in choral music, but the general recipient, which will include a variety of events, in- public as well. cluding a Morten Lauridsen Cho- “It’s an insight into one man’s ral Festival at the Hylton Perform- life and his love of nature, his

ing Arts Center in Manassas, a Photo Courtesy of Fairfax Choral Society quest for solitude, his love of po- screening of “Shining Night” at the etry,” Lauridsen said. Angelika Film Center, and an Af- Lauridsen seeks solitude for ternoon with Morten Lauridsen, inspiration while composing. which includes a pre-concert lec- He spends his summers in a con- ture by Lauridsen as well as a converted general store with no cert in which Lauridsen will ac- electricity or running water on company the Fairfax Choral Soci- Waldron Island in the San Juan ety Symphonic Chorus and Mas- Archipelago, located off the ter Singers at the piano at National coast of Washington State. Presbyterian Church in Washing- “I do my best work as a cre- ton, D.C. ative artist when I am able to Lauridsen is a professor at the get to a very quiet place, where University of Southern California I am not distracted by unneces- Thorton School of Music, where he sary ambient sounds,” has taught for over 40 years. Lauridsen said. “What is most rewarding about The Fairfax Choral Society is Lauridsen has done over 100 teaching composition is to spark hosting a residency for the residencies, and said they are the student composers and to try award-winning composer one of his favorite things to do. to help them find their special gift Morten Lauridsen from “To interact with students, the as a composer, and to nurture March 20-23. general public, the choristers, that,” Lauridsen said. it’s a huge joy for me. It’s one of Lauridsen worked as a firefighter for the Forest the great things that I am involved with now in my Service when he was younger, and spent ten weeks life,” Lauridsen said. isolated on a lookout tower near Mt. St. Helens. Several of Lauridsen’s works, including the famous At that point, Lauridsen had not taken any music “O Magnum Mysterium” (1994) and Lux Aeterna classes in college, although he was a trained pianist (1997), will be performed at the concert with the and trumpet player. Fairfax Choral Society on March 23. “I realized on that lookout, after a long period of The Los Angeles Master Chorale, where Lauridsen introspection, that music had to play a larger role in was composer-in-residence from 1994-2001, is host- my life,” Lauridsen said. ing a tribute to Lauridsen on March 16. Lauridsen took as many music classes as possible For a full schedule of Fairfax Choral Society and Morten at Whitman College, and then attended the Univer- Lauridsen events, visit www.fairfaxchoralsociety.org.

Burke Church to Host A Jazz Poetry Slam In the name of love, a jazz poetry slam will be rebuild lives and break the cycle of crime with held Saturday, April 5, 7 - 10 p.m. at Accotink opportunities, alternatives, and resources for of- Unitarian Universalist Church, 10125 Lakehaven fenders and their families to create a safer com- Drive, Burke. Join poets from around the region munity.” Jazz provided by George Mason Univer- as they compete for prize money. The slam will sity School of Music students. Refreshments will be professionally hosted by Regie Cabico and be available for purchase. Sarah D. Lawson, both from Busboys and Poets. Prizes and fees: $15 registration for readers This event is part of Accotink’s year-long series entering contest, $5 admission. Refreshments of programming addressing Criminal Justice Sen- available for a small donation. First prize: $100; tencing reform and the ravages of mass incar- second, third and youth prizes also awarded. ceration on poor communities of color. Proceeds For more information go to benefit Opportunities, Alternatives, and Re- www.accotinkuuc.org - or call 703-503-4579 and sources (OAR) of Fairfax, who’s mission is “to ask for Reverend Scott Sammler-Michael.

14 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Come out to Northern Virginia’s Premier Party-Planning Expo on March 23 for all of your party needs at the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia.

Parent Together, an effort to Dinner Theater spring performance is Calendar empower families to focus on the a musical murder mystery comedy set wellbeing of their children. They will in the 1920’s. share with us tools in the area of Send notes to the Connection at mental wellness, healthy [email protected] or development, community FRIDAY/MARCH 21 call 703-778-9416. The deadline is the connectedness, and gun safety. Call “Death at The Devereux.” Doors Friday prior to the next paper’s publica- the church office at 703- 978-8724 to open at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvre, tion. Dated announcements should be reserve a lunch. show starts at 8. Clifton Town submitted at least two weeks prior to the Early Spring Containers. 1:30-3 Meeting Hall, 12641 Chapel Road, event. p.m. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Clifton. Tickets include dinner and Green Spring Road, Alexandria. In the show and are $40. The Clifton FRIDAY/MARCH 14 the cold of winter, spring never Dinner Theater spring performance is Friday Night Film Series Presents: seems to come soon enough. a musical murder mystery comedy set Half Nelson. 7 p.m. Accotink Chanticleer Garden’s Jonathan in the 1920’s. Unitarian Universalist Church, 10215 Wright shows you how to plant Lakehaven Court Burke, Virginia. beautiful early spring containers that 703-503-4579. HYPERLINK “http:// will thrive and ‘warm up’ any cold SATURDAY/MARCH 22 www.accotinkuuc.org” day. Register at The Annual Antiques & Trinkets www.accotinkuuc.org. This is a non- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Appraisal Show. 10 a.m.-12:30 religious event open to the public. greenspring or call Green Spring p.m. Stacy C. Sherwood Community Old Town Hall Performance Series Gardens 703-642-5173. $10/person. Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Irish Breakfast Band. 8 p.m. Old The Chieftains. 4 p.m. GMU Center Fairfax. Verbal appraisals given by six Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, appraisers. $5.00 admission (1 item Fairfax. A free performance of Fairfax. Celtic music pioneers take included), $3.00 each additional item traditional Irish folk music and the stage for a spirited St. Patrick’s (limit 2). dance. http://www.visitfairfax.com/ Day celebration that captures the Shining Night: A Portrait of category/commission-on-the-arts/ profound beauty of the Emerald Isle. Composer Morten Lauridsen.º2:15 p.m.ºThe Angelika Film Center in the Mosaic District, SUNDAY/MARCH 16 TUESDAY/MARCH 18 - MARCH 20 2911 District Avenue, N Gauge Trains. 1-4 p.m. 11200 Annie Jr.! The Musical. 7 p.m. Kings Fairfax.ºScreening of this award- Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station. Glen Elementary, 5401 Danbury winning documentary film, including The Northern Virginia NTRAK Forest Drive, Springfield. Tickets cost a post-film discussion with Mr. members will have a display and N $4 in advance and $5 at the door. Lauridsen. Tickets $20 at the door or gauge trains running. Museum Call 703-239-4000 today to purchase $18 in advance members, free; adults 16 and over, tickets in advance. onºwww.fairfaxchoralsociety.org $4; children 5-15, $2; under 4, free. “Death at The Devereux.” Doors www.fairfax-station.org phone 703- open at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvre, 425-9225. THURSDAY/MARCH 20 show starts at 8. Clifton Town COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP David Barden of Sandy Hook “Death at The Devereux.” Doors Meeting Hall, 12641 Chapel Road, Promise Speaking Event. 12:30 - open at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvre, Clifton. Tickets include dinner and 2 p.m. St. Stephens United Methodist show starts at 8. Clifton Town the show and are $40. The Clifton Church, 9203 Braddock Road, Burke. Meeting Hall, 12641 Chapel Road, Dinner Theater spring performance is Come and learn about Sandy Hook Clifton. Tickets include dinner and a musical murder mystery comedy set Promise’s new nationwide campaign, the show and are $35. The Clifton in the 1920’s.

Providence Players Receive a WATCH Award he Providence Players Tof Fairfax County received an award from the Washington Area Theatre Community Honors (WATCH) for artistic and technical excel- Jubilee 9800 Old Keene Mill Rd. lence in Community Theater. The Providence Players per- Christian Center 703-455-7041 “Experience the Difference” form at the James L. Commu- Realtime Worship - Sunday 8:45 & 11 AM Sunday School nity Center Theater, 2855 Sunday School 10:10 AM 9:15 AM Annandale Road, Falls Church. Sunday Evening - Realtime Worship & Youth 6 PM “We are excited about the Family Night - Wednesday 7:15 PM Worship Service Call for our Home Life Group schedule 10:30 AM wealth of talent represented by visit our website: www.jccag.org this year’s WATCH Award nomi- 4650 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax nees and winners,” said Roy Bill Frasnelli, PASTOR 703-383-1170 www.calvaryfamily.com “Continuing the ministry of Peterson, WATCH Chair. “This Christ on earth” group is just one indicator of Photo by Chip Gertzog/Courtesy of Providence Players of Fairfax the vitality of the DC metro From left: Thane Tuttle (Dutchy), Craig Geoffrion (Chi- community theatre scene.” cago), Danine Welsh (Cecile), Liz Mykietyn (Marie) and The WATCH awards were Patrick David (Millet) in rehearsal for the Providence announced at a ceremony at Players of Fairfax comedy production of Mark Twain’s the Birchmere, Alexandria on ‘Is He Dead?’ Sunday evening, March 9. The Providence Players received a - “Is He Dead?” WATCH information is at: b b WATCH Award for Outstanding Information on the Providence http:// To Advertise Your Community of Set Decoration in a Play - Paul Players is at: http:// www.washingtontheater.org/ Hennesy and Mike Mattheisen www.providenceplayers.org/. — David Siegel Worship, Call 703-778-9418 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 ❖ 15 Sports

Photos by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection

Woodson fans and the Cavalier bench react during the 6A state semifi- Lake Braddock’s A.J. Alexander scored 13 points and grabbed eight nals against Landstown on March 8 at Robinson Secondary School. rebounds against Colonial Forge on March 7. Cavaliers, Bruins Fall in State Semifinals “I just thought they were a little bit more Woodson boys Lake Braddock falls powerful tonight than we were,” Lake Braddock head coach Brian Metress said. struggle offensively to Colonial Forge in “I thought they got to balls quicker and they had some strength that we were having a against Landstown. 6A State Semifinals. little bit of trouble dealing with. … We were By Jon Roetman By Jon Roetman trying to get it in [the paint] and I thought The Connection The Connection we took some shots around the basket but every time we’d miss one of those, [zoom], he Woodson boys’ basketball team ake Braddock’s skilled big men pro- they were gone. Give them credit. They got Texperienced much in the way of Lpelled the program to new heights out and ran.” adversity during the 2013-14 sea- this season. The Bruins reached the son. state tournament for the first time in pro- COLONIAL FORGE held 6-foot-7 Lake The Cavaliers overcame the graduation gram history due in large part to the Braddock forward Will Gregorits without a of three of their top players from the 2012- strength of their frontcourt. Their bigs of- field goal in the first half. Gregorits scored 13 campaign. A busted pipe inside Red ten created matchup problems for the op- 10 of his 13 points in the second half, in- Jenkins Gym forced Woodson to practice position and made a significant impact in cluding a dunk that cut the Eagles’ lead to and play away from its home. And during the paint. five at 43-38 with less than three minutes the region tournament, the Cavaliers dealt On March 7, Lake Braddock encountered remaining in the third quarter. Colonial with the death of two classmates in the same a Colonial Forge team that possessed the Forge responded by outscoring Lake Braddock 16-6 during the next six-plus min- week. Woodson sophomore Matt Ayoub strength and athleticism to contend with the utes, taking its largest lead of the night None of this derailed Woodson during its scored 14 points during a loss to Bruins’ post players. The result for Lake when Marco Haskins knocked down a pair quest for a second consecutive region title Landstown in the 6A state semifi- Braddock: a one-and-done trip to Rich- of free throws to give the Eagles a 59-44 and another trip to the state semifinals. But nals on March 8 at Robinson Sec- mond. The Colonial Forge boys’ basketball advantage. “They’re not the tallest guys that on March 8, with Woodson one win shy of ondary School. team defeated Lake Braddock 76-67 in the reaching the state championship game, a 6A state semifinals at VCU’s Siegel Center. we’ve played against,” Lake Braddock jun- simple off-shooting afternoon ended the Landstown came out in a man defense. After trailing by as many as 15 points in ior forward A.J. Alexander said, “but they’re Cavaliers’ season. Woodson tried to change the play, but the second half, the Bruins cut the Eagles’ definitely the most athletic we’ve played Woodson shot 28 percent from the floor Landstown defended it, and the Cavaliers lead to six on three occasions in the fourth against.” and produced a season-low point total dur- were unable to get a good shot. quarter, but couldn’t complete the come- Alexander finished with 13 points, eight ing a 40-37 loss to Landstown in the 6A state “They switched to man and we had a play, back. rebounds and two steals. James Butler, a 6- semifinals at Robinson Secondary School. we just didn’t get into it fast enough,” Craig Lake Braddock missed several shots near foot-6 sophomore center, had 13 points and Sophomore guard Matt Ayoub was the only said. “They switched out on it, took the the rim, some of which resulted in Colonial five rebounds. Freshman guard Corey Cavalier to score in double figures, finish- shooter away. They kind of kept us off bal- Forge fast breaks. The Eagles outrebounded Pelham knocked down a trio of 3-pointers ing with 14 points. Junior point guard Eric ance all night. We never really got into a the Bruins 32-25. See Lake Braddock, Page 18 Bowles, the 6A North region Player of the rhythm offensively at any point in this Year, finished with one point, missing all game.” five of his field-goal attempts. The Cava- Woodson finished 11-for-40 from the liers’ previous season-low point total had floor. been 47. “I thought our defense was good, I Lake Down by three, Woodson’s final posses- thought we battled them on the glass,” Craig Braddock sion began with 31.4 seconds remaining. said. “Sometimes you’ve just got to put the senior Will The Cavaliers passed the ball around look- ball in the basket.” Gregorits ing unsure of what to do. Andy Stynchula Ayoub, a sophomore transfer from Paul scored 13 ended up with the ball at the top of the arc VI, knocked down four 3-pointers, includ- points and the senior forward shot a contested 3- ing one that tied the score at 37 with 1:27 against pointer, which was tipped by a Landstown remaining. Colonial defender. “It’s been a great season,” Ayoub said. Forge on “Coming in as a sophomore, my first year March 7. AFTER THE GAME, Woodson coach Doug ever playing varsity, to be on this type of Craig said the Cavaliers called a play ex- team was great. It’s fun. We bond very well

pecting to face a zone defense. Instead, See Woodson, Page 18 by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection Photo 16 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-917-6400 Employment Zone 2: • Burke Classified Zone 2 Ad Deadline: • Fairfax • Springfield Tuesday Noon

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ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS HAULING LANDSCAPING together. Through the course of the season, our chemistry got so much better than AL’S HAULING A&S what it was at the beginning.” Junk & Rubbish Senior forward Jimmy McLaughlin fin- Concrete, furn.,office, LANDSCAPING yard, construction debris Planting • Mulching • Sodding ished with seven points for Woodson. Low Rates NOVA Stynchula had six points and senior guard 703-360-4364 Patios • Decks • Driveway Sealing, 703-304-4798 cell Asphalt • Retaining Walls Mike Szabo added five. 7 DAYS A WEEK Erosion Control • Drainage Solutions 703-863-7465 BOWLES had one point, eight rebounds and five assists. Woodson finished the sea- ANGEL’S HAULING TREE SERVICE son with a 21-9 record, with six of its losses GUTTER GUTTER Junk Trash Removal, coming by six points or fewer, and four com- The HANDYMAN Yard/Construction ANGEL’S TREE REMOVAL ing by three points or less. The Cavaliers A DIVISION OF NURSE CONSTRUCTION Debris, Garage/ Base- Brush & Yard Debris lost to Lake Braddock three times during GUTTER CLEANING ment Clean Out, Trimming & Topping the season by a combined eight points, in- Gutters and Downspouts Cleaned BATHROOM REMODELING, DRYWALL, Furniture & Appl. Small Repairs • Gutter Guards PAINTING, CERAMIC TILE, CARPENTRY, Gutters & Hauling cluding a one-point defeat in the Confer- Angeltreeslandscaping-hauling.com PINNACLE SERVICES POWER WASHING & MUCH MORE 703-863-1086 ence 7 championship game, but came back You have tried the rest - NOW CALL THE BEST!! 703-582-3709 703-863-1086 to beat the Bruins by 10 in the 6A North Proudly serving Northern VA - 46 yrs. exp. 703-582-3709 lic/ins 703-802-0483 free est. 240-603-6182 240-603-6182 email [email protected] Licensed We Accept VISA/MC region championship game on Feb. 21. web: lawnsandgutters.com Insured Woodson’s projected returning athletes 703-441-8811 TREE SERVICE TREE SERVICE Friendly Service with a Friendly Price! for the 2014-15 season include: Bowles, Ayoub, junior guard Trey Johnson and jun- A&S Landscaping Quality Tree Service & Landscaping ior forward Tyler Wilson. HANDYMAN HANDYMAN • All Concrete work Reasonable prices. 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Virginia Lake Braddock From Page 16 Hand and Hand LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO Handyman and finished with 10 points. Senior guard John Nice made a pair from behind the arc General Remodeling Remodeling Interior, and totaled eight points — all in the first Residential & Commercial Bathrooms, Kitchens, quarter. “I got some better looks in the be- Specializing in: Newspapers & Online Kitchen/Bathroom/Basement Remodeling Floors, Ceramic Tile, ginning,” Nice said. “[The Eagles] started Plumbing • Electrical • Custom Carpentry CLASSIFIED to close out toward the end, so I either had Doors Windows • Hardwood Floors Painting, Decks, DEADLINES to dribble or pass it off right away.” Crown Molding • House Cleaning Fences, Additions. Zones 1, 5, 6...... Mon @ noon Lake Braddock finished the season with Interior/Exterior Painting • Brick/Stone Work Zones 2, 3, 4...... Tues @ noon Ceramic Tile • Decks, Fences, Patios 703-863-1086 a 23-5 record. 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20 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 13-19, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyleHomeHomeLifeStyleSpring 2014 LifeStyle

Bryan Burris Bryan Burke

Photo by Photo www.ConnectionNewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC online at www.connectionnewspapers.comHomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 ❖ 1 Home LifeStyle Van Metre Wins Sales, Marketing Awards

an Metre Homes won eight Sil- Rookie of the Year, Ernie Kyger for Sales sand apartments, as well as office buildings homebuyers to choose their interior finishes ver Awards at the 2014 National Person of the Year, and Danny Faulkner for and shopping centers in Northern Virginia. and options. Van Metre also offers turnkey VSales and Marketing Awards, Sales Manager of the Year. Van Metre Van Metre communities include their own mortgage financing services through their hosted by the National Sales and Homes won for Best Direct Mail Program master-planned developments, as well as own lending affiliate, Intercoastal Mort- Marketing Council. with their Fashion Week. Their Fresh Cam- neighborhoods in smaller subdivisions and gage. Through the Van Metre in-house ar- Van Metre Homes were honored as Rookie paign won two awards for Best Print Cam- third-party planned communities. chitecture team, buyers can modify archi- of the Year, Sales Person of the Year, Sales paign and for Best Overall Advertising The Van Metre portfolio of new homes tecture based on a community’s design plan Manager of the Year, Best Direct Mail Pro- Campaign. Van Metre Homes’ Hologram includes condominiums, townhomes and and surrounding environments. They are gram, Best Print Campaign, Best Overall won for Best Computer Sales Tool and the single-family homes designed for first-time also able to quickly adapt to market Advertising Campaign, Best Computer Sales Van Metre Design Studio won for Best De- and move-up buyers throughout the North- changes, as well as offer customization with Tool, and Best Design Center. sign Center. ern Virginia suburbs. Van Metre’s Dream Home Portfolio — of- Individuals recognized for outstanding Van Metre Companies has constructed Van Metre’s exclusive Design Studio, lo- fering homebuyers an easy path to personal achievement included Omayra Dehring for more than 16,000 houses and several thou- cated in Stone Ridge, Va., allows home customization. Near Zero Temperatures Call for Back-to-Basics What mid-winter “An appropriate maintenance can reveal insulation strategy starts about your home’s needs. with a kind of forensics.

By John Byrd Where is a wall, ceiling or roof exposed to outside hile common sense suggests that Whome improvements should be conditions? Is it difficult put off to warmer weather, a sustained period of colder temperatures often to regulate temperatures reveals systemic problems that will need correction sooner or later. in different parts of the As temperatures dropped precipitously several weeks ago, all Reston homeowner house?” Craig Mattice knew was that his original mansard roof was plagued with ice dams ate and poorly installed flashing which was and his 10-year-old, 600-square-foot addi- allowing water to seep into siding and un- tion was so cold the pipes were freezing. der roof shingles. Moreover, no amount of thermostat adjust- Photo courtesy of Foster Remodeling Solutions His prescription: a re-shingled roof, a new ment improved the situation much. A sustained period of cold weather can reveal problems with your gutter protection system and attic ventila- “After living in the house for over 25 years home’s basic systems that will need to be addressed in any season if tion equipped with an electronic thermo- the chill was a surprise,” Mattice said. “It further deterioration is to be prevented. stat. wasn’t just that the winter has been colder “It’s important to address the whole prob- than usual … it was beginning to look like baffles to improve ventilation. The larger R-20 while providing a draft-free air-tight lem when the system has failed,” Foster said. a larger problem, particularly in the new technical solution, however, was to blow- seal to the kitchen floor. To accommodate “This is a plan that not only eliminates the wing, which was five degrees colder than in R-25 fiberglass, which raised the attic’s for summer conditions, Foster added venti- leaking, but functions much better in all other rooms.” thermal resistance to R-44. lation to both the crawl space and the attic. seasons.” To determine the cause of ice-clogged “One of the benefits of fiberglass is that So how do the upgrades perform? A few miles away, Alexandrian Jeff Hage gutters, Mattice turned to remodeler David it wraps everything…creating an air-tight “Beautifully,” Craig Mattice says. “The came to Foster when he noticed one of the Foster who had completed a number of insular envelope,” Foster says. “This makes house is noticeably tighter and the new posts to a front porch was sagging. home improvements for his son. all aspects of the home’s heating and cool- wing is much more comfortable.” Foster, who had finished an interior for “The damming was literally the tip of the ing more efficient.” Hage a few months before, quickly recog- iceberg,” said Foster, principal of Foster The more recently completed family wing A PROFESSIONAL REMODELER for 35 nized that the whole roof had settled, mak- Remodeling Solutions. “When I inspected was another matter. Turns out the Mattice’s years, Foster said he’s somewhat surprised ing it impossible to stop worsening dete- the attic it was clear that the envelope was artfully-designed addition was built over an by the calls he gets when temperatures rioration by simply replacing the corner not adequately sealed, insulated or venti- unheated crawl space, and the HVAC duct drop, usually from homeowners who’ve column. lated, which is why the upstairs had been wasn’t even connected in the kitchen. found that previous attempts at keeping the “When the problem becomes structural too hot last summer.” “An appropriate insulation strategy starts house comfortable and well-functioning you have to remake the basic supports, “ he Add to this the fact that prior to 1980 lo- with a kind of forensics,” Foster said. haven’t worked very well. says. “In this case that meant raising the cal building code required less thermally- “Where is a wall, ceiling or roof exposed to A few months ago, for example, he ex- porch roof and re-aligning posts and resistant insulation (R-19) than the current outside conditions? Is it difficult to regu- ecuted a re-roofing and gutter protection beams.” R-38 standard and the outlines of a com- late temperatures in different parts of the assignment for Alexandria homeowner Foster has encountered similarly short- mon problem with older production homes house? These are some basic questions we Steve Piper, who had previously hired him sighted solutions associated with window begins to emerge. start with.” to design and build an extensive interior replacement. Homeowners with drafty “It’s not unusual to find that the existing Given challenges inherent in insulating makeover. homes procure state-of-the-art insulated insulation just isn’t the best application for rooms built over an unheated crawl space “We knew we had a leaking problem be- windows only to have them installed with some of our coldest days ” Foster said. “Dif- — which also must support air circulation, fore we met David,” Piper said. “But the situ- inadequately sealed window jambs. ferent parts of a house can call for different Foster re-engineered the entire thermal ation had gotten worse — and I wasn’t sure “Winter is not particularly forgiving of insulation strategies.” equation: existing fiberglass batt was re- what to expect from roofers. Finally, it oc- partial solutions,” Foster said. “When a Since the goal for the Mattice attic was moved; sprayed-in closed cell foam was curred to me to ask David for his assess- problem is recurring, it’s time to look at the to dramatically increase R-value, Foster re- then applied to the underside of the floor ment.” larger system. After all, this is how a house arranged the old insulation, adding soffit system. This elevated the thermal value to Foster traced the problem to inappropri- works.” 2 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Home LifeStyle Empty-Nesters Re-invent the Family Home Built-ins, cleverly articulated interior increase usable space without need to add-on.

By John Byrd

ometimes life’s second act requires a bold set change. How else are Sothers to know that the featured players have moved on, embracing new beginnings? Reinvention is after all the quintessential triumph of creativity, and can be a very personal process when the thing reinvented is your home itself. Photo by Bryan Burris Photography “Of course, large-scale life changes don’t necessarily demand a whole house makeover,” recently retired teacher Cindy Borer said. But in the past year, her only son moved out to start a new career and her husband is now traveling less, so the timing was right for discoveries.

BUT TO START AT THE TOP: last spring the Borers had celebrated 20 years residency in their two-story, four-bedroom Co- lonial-style house in Burke, and were taking stock of what they wanted from the By borrowing a mere nine square feet from the dining room, the designers found space for a small mudroom years ahead. with bench immediately to the right of a side kitchen door. At just over 800 square feet, the home’s primary living area had been serviceable Evaluating options, Borer considered en- It was at this juncture that Craig Durosko, didn’t so much lack square footage as a sen- enough; even so, the formal dining room larging a few rear rooms. She also won- founder of Sun Design Remodeling, was sible space plan tailored to how they actu- and adjacent den on opposite sides of the dered if some of the home’s interior walls called-in to discuss possible space improve- ally use their home. The existing “center- front facing foyer were hardly ever used and could be modified in way that would allow ment scenarios. the rear family room was dark and cramped. for more natural light. What to do? Durosko pointed out that the couple See Empty-Nesters, Page 4 Kitchen Confidential By Marilyn Campbell The Connection From light-filled

hen Allie Mann of Arlington, a to dramatic, local Wdesigner and senior interior spe- designers create cialist at Case Design/Remodel- ing, Inc. was tasked with giving the first dream kitchens. floor of a McLean, Va., home a face lift, she had to think free-flowing and airy. “[The] client wanted to focus on making Burke the kitchen feel open and connected to rest of home,” said Mann. “[They] needed to have plenty of space to cook and entertain plus lots of storage.” Mann said the homeowner was making a HomeLifeStyle cross-country move and settling in Virginia, so adhering to a strict timeline and budget is produced by were critical. Photo courtesy Nicely Done Kitchens Connection Newspapers However, near the end of the project, the A vertical, glass subway tile backsplash adds a dramatic flair to this www.ConnectionNewspapers.com homeowner wanted to make a change. kitchen by Nicely Done Kitchens. Local Media Connection LLC “At nearly 85 percent job completion, client decided they wanted to completely re- engineering [because] the remaining por- time.” For more information, move the wall between the kitchen and fam- tion of the wall housed a three-story fire- The finished kitchen is a light-filled space call 703-778-9431 or email ily room. In the original design, we partially place, relocation of cabinets had already with cabinets by Crystal Cabinetry, honed [email protected] removed the wall,” said Mann. “This meant been installed and modifications to counter Vermont Marble countertops and appliances a shift and redirection of scope, additional tops. And still deliver a project close to on See Kitchen, Page 4 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 ❖ 3 Home LifeStyle David Watkins of Merrifield Garden Center says cold season annuals like these yellow pansies Empty-Nesters Re-invent the Family Home can add bright color to a Kitchen Confidential garden now. From Page 3 From Page 3 hall” configuration defined rooms were consistent with tradition, yet were func- Photo copyright Caroline Williams tionally underutilized most of the time. by Sub-Zero, Wolf, KitchenAid and Miele. This accounted for daily traffic patterns that didn’t work as well as they might, NICELY DONE KITCHENS in Springfield, and a nagging sense that the entire first Va., created a kitchen with drama for a Courtesy Design/Remodeling of Case Inc Getting Your Garden floor was space-restricted. Centreville, Va., family. “White semi-custom On a second subject: the mid-house cabinetry and a contrasting dark island cre- floor-to-ceiling bearing wall dividing the ates a dramatic look,” said Stephanie Brick, Ready for Spring front and rear sections of the house could designer. Brick cited the focus on the verti- be completely deleted by installing con- cal, subway tile back splash. cealed vertical supports at strategic in- The rest of the back splash in the kitchen Local experts tell you what you should do tervals, Durokso said. Such a move would is horizontal, which is the standard for sub- dramatically increase natural light, cre- way tile, said Brick. now, in spite of the cold weather. ating the floor space needed for an al- The kitchen also includes ample, easily By Marilyn Campbell ternative layout more appropriate for accessible storage space. on the environment. It reduces bad bug The Connection both daily use and entertainment. “The paneled refrigerator helps conceal populations and is safe over all.” “On the first visit Craig pretty much the appliances and helps them to blend in solved our space plan problem,” Borer with the cabinetry to give the aesthetic more t doesn’t feel like spring. Last WHILE EAGER GARDENERS may be said. “From this point on, I was mainly continuity,” said Brick. The kitchen includes week’s snow made it seem like excited to start planting spring flowers to think about the interior design de- Photos by Bryan Burris Photography easily accessible storage space and ogee- Arlington, Va., designer Allie Mann I warm weather might never arrive, in their newly cleaned plots, Watkins of- tails.” To differentiate the front-facing library from the family room visually, edged granite counter tops. of Case Design/Remodeling, Inc. so planting a garden might be the fers a caveat: “It is a little early for most So Borer’s meeting with Jon Benson, Sun Design converted existing overhead beams into an elegant tray created a free-flowing and elegant last thing on your mind. However, local annual flowers in pots on patios, but you the makeover’s lead designer, proved a ceiling supported by Craftsman-style piers. OPENING UP and adding light were pri- feel in this McLean, Va. kitchen. gardening experts say this is the ideal can plant annuals like pansies, which are revelation from the start. orities when Guy Hopkins Semmes, part- time to start preparing your landscape cold season annuals,” he said. “They A veteran home remodeling specialist ner and founder of Potomac-based design- refrigerator and moved it downstairs,” said to yield colorful spring foliage. don’t like heat, so in June they start to as well as a nationally recognized furni- build firm Hopkins and Porter and Lea Semmes. “All of the other appliances are Bill Mann, of Behnke Nurseries in whither. Then you can put other flowers ture designer, Benson’s input shaped a Allen, one of the firm’s senior architects, re- located under the counter and open up like Potomac, Md., said spring garden prepa- in like petunias and geraniums.” floor plan focused on personal require- modeled the kitchen of a Bethesda, Md., drawers.” ration plans differ from year to year. “It Watkins recommends planting hearty, ments in which custom built-ins elimi- home. Semmes also found a creative way to depends on the landscape beds you have ornamental shrubs in patio flowerpots nate unneeded walls while sharply im- “The kitchen was small, but we were able make the space more light-filled. “We took and whether or not you’re planning to and surrounding them with flowering proving both room function and interior to add a lot more space, by making few out a stairway wall to the second floor and put in a vegetable garden,” he said. plants to ensure year-found foliage. “A design integrity. minor changes,” said Semmes. “Before there replaced it with a triangular opening so light Photo courtesy of Hopkins and Porter “This is the time to inspect shrubs for nice thing to do in pots is plant a woody To create a more functional relation- was an enclosed porch next to the kitchen. from stairwell came down into the kitchen.” Guy Semmes and Lea Allen of damage that might have been broken ornamental,” he said. “It is nice to have ship between the kitchen and the dining We opened the wall between the kitchen The kitchen now has maple cabinetry and Potomac-based design-build firm during the snow load,” said David plants in the pots that stay year round. I room, for instance, the designer replaced and the adjacent enclosed porch.” white Silestone countertops. “It was done Hopkins and Porter removed walls Watkins of Merrifield Garden Center, put a Japanese maple in a pot on my an interior pantry with a 27.5-square- Semmes and Allen made another major on a budget. It’s amazing what you can do to create space and add light to the which has locations in Fair Oaks, deck. In another pot I put ilex verticillata foot food preparation surface and din- elimination: appliances. “We got rid of the when you work with what you’ve got.” kitchen of this Bethesda, Md. home. Merrifield and Gainesville, Va., Don’t go [winterberry] and I had red berries all ing counter that serves both rooms overboard, however: “You don’t want to winter long. In the spring, I’ll put petu- equally. st prune plants before they bloom. A good nias in the soil around it, and around the By borrowing a mere nine square feet Garden Club of Virginia Celebrates 81 Tour rule of thumb is to prune a flowering edge I’ll plant a flowering plant that will from the dining room, Benson also found plant right after it blooms.” trail down over the pot from April to space for a small mudroom with bench Instead, spend some time tidying up. October. Then the rest of the year I’ll get immediately to the right of the side en- ouse and garden tours will take “Right now is the time to fertilize your red berries.” trance to the kitchen. place across Virginia during the shrubs, remove old mulch, put down new Sowing grass seeds is also an ideal H st Re-situating the front hall closet to the 81 Historic Garden Week. Gar- mulch and just clean up,” said Watkins. project to begin now. “The seeds won’t right of the front door not only widened den week runs from Saturday, April 26-Sat- “Everybody is sick of winter, especially germinate until it gets to be 52 degrees,” the front foyer but also created dramatic urday, May 3. this winter. This is the time to clean up Watkins continued. “So even if we get front-to-back sight lines that make the Tour proceeds fund the restoration and old leaves. Because the winter has been another snow storm, it helps work the entire house seem much larger. The new transitional-style interior Transitional interior design style preservation of Virginia’s historic gardens. so cold, there are going to be some plants seeds into the soil.” Measured in square feet, the changes employs decorative elements to seeks to reconcile traditional Each spring visitors are welcomed to more that won’t have made it.” Randee Wilson of Nature By Design in are small. Yet such revisions liberate the create distinctive use-zones in an architecture with the spatial than 250 of Virginia’s most beautiful gar- “In March, a lot has to do with inspect- Alexandria encourages the use of indig- first level circulation plan, re-organizing open floor plan. freedom of an open floor plan. dens, homes and historic landmarks during the yard for winter damage,” saud enous plants. “Look for sources for na- the home’s primary living area into ing “America’s Largest Open House.” This Mann. “This is a great time of the year tive plants — they help sustain our local rooms that are both interactive and ar- Sun Design’s Jessica Page. space dividers between the family room eight-day statewide event provides visitors to look for insect damage and deer dam- wildlife. If we didn’t have local plants, ticulated. “Jessica helped me discover the design and the den. Meanwhile, Borer’s prefer- an opportunity to see gardens at the peak age.” butterflies would be gone.” To visually differentiate the front-fac- style I’d been looking for,” Borer said. “She ence for soft white and grey duotones of Virginia’s springtime color, as well as Mann expects extensive deer damage Native plants also require less mainte- ing library from the family room, the de- opened up a lot of resources. Ideas that I inspired an interior paint scheme that beautiful houses sparkling with over 2,000 this year. “Deer didn’t have much to eat nance. “Some native plants are cardinal signer converted existing overhead liked were added to a project scrapbook combines sharp white and khaki. flower arrangements created by Garden except for plants like azaleas and rhodo- flower, which is bright red; bee balm, also beams into an elegant tray ceiling sup- which we both referenced regularly to keep In the kitchen, Giallo Sioriato granite Club of Virginia members. dendrons.” bright red; blue cardinal; iron weed, ported by Craftsman-style piers. the decision process on track.” surfaces are set off by a vividly original Statewide tour passes are available for Insect damage is less obvious and more which has purple flowers, and native A floor-to-ceiling bookcase—also a As space plan modifications proceeded, glass tile and stone backsplash which $175. The Alexandria tour takes place Sat- difficult to identify. “This is the time to wisteria vine,” said Wilson. Benson original—provides an elegant yet Borer’s research revealed a strong personal lends an invigorating streak of color to urday, April 26, tickets are $35. The Vienna do damage-control by using safe or or- If a new patio is in your plans this useful wall for the new reading room. attraction to transitional-style interior de- the broader visual panorama. tour takes place Tuesday, April 29 and tick- ganic-based products like neem oil,” said spring, Watkins says to get started now. The new family room fireplace hearth sign, a contemporary concept that seeks to “Its very comfortable balance of tradi- ets are $25. There is a 240-page guidebook Mann. “When sprayed on plants, it “We’ve been putting down putting pa- was custom-designed to accommodate reconcile traditional architecture with the tional and open really works well for us,” with detailed descriptions of properties on smothers insect eggs or some insects in tios all year long,” he said. “A good gar- the plasma TV that now hangs above it. spatial freedom of an open floor plan. Borer said. “I found the whole process each tour. The $10 charge covers the ship- the larva stage. It also kills stinkbugs. If den center is going to get backed up Additional interior design decisions On this score, Benson’s original floorplan really enlightening.” ping and handling cost of the book. Free you can see them, you can control them. when the weather is warmer. The sooner emerged from Borer’s collaboration with sketch anticipated the use of loveseats as copies of the guide are available at Virginia You can use a higher concentration this you start getting your job in the line, This Alexandria garden will appear on the 81st Historic Garden Week businesses, visitor centers, and some AAAs. time of year and it is a lot safer and easier the better.” tour. Visit www.vagardenweek.org. 4 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 ❖ 5 Local REAL ESTATE Photos by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection Top Sales in January, 2014

1 7540 Clifton Road, Fairfax Station — $2,250,000

2 9 2 11394 Amber Hills Court, Fairfax — $1,626,036

10 5

6 8

Address ...... BR FB HB ..... Postal City ..... Sold Price .. Type ...... Lot AC .. PostalCode ...... Subdivision ...... Date Sold

1 7540 CLIFTON RD ...... 7 .. 9 .. 1 ... FAIRFAX STATION $2,250,000 ... Detached ... 4.82 ...... 22039 ...... CRAFTOWN ...... 01/02/14

2 11394 AMBER HILLS CT ...... 5 .. 5 .. 2 ...... FAIRFAX ...... $1,626,036 ... Detached ... 1.08 ...... 22033 .... ESTATES AT FAIR OAKS .... 01/24/14

3 3518 SCHUERMAN HOUSE DR .. 5 .. 5 .. 1 ...... FAIRFAX ...... $1,175,000 ... Detached ... 0.18 ...... 22031 ...... PICKETT’S RESERVE ...... 01/17/14

4 4212 ORCHARD DR ...... 4 .. 3 .. 1 ...... FAIRFAX ...... $1,150,000 ... Detached ... 0.33 ...... 22032 ...... HALEMHURST ...... 01/22/14

5 7111 GRANBERRY WAY ...... 5 .. 5 .. 2 ...... SPRINGFIELD .. $1,060,000 ... Detached ... 0.37 ...... 22151 ..... GRANBERRY ESTATES .... 01/06/14

6 6471 LAKE MEADOW DR ...... 4 .. 4 .. 1 ...... BURKE ...... $1,037,500 ... Detached ... 0.58 ...... 22015 ...... EDGEWATER ...... 01/31/14

7 11090 SANDY MANOR DR ...... 4 .. 4 .. 1 ... FAIRFAX STATION .. $960,000 ... Detached ... 5.00 ...... 22039 SANDY RUN FOREST ESTATES01/20/14

8 7242 ARCHLAW DR ...... 4 .. 3 .. 1 ...... CLIFTON ...... $935,000 ... Detached ... 5.00 ...... 20124 ...... CLIFTON TRAILS ...... 01/31/14

9 2936 Penny Lane ...... 3 .. 3 .. 0 ...... FAIRFAX ...... $917,286 ... Detached ... 0.20 ...... 22031 ... MOSAIC AT MERRIFIELD .. 01/28/14

10 6720 HARTWOOD LN ...... 6 .. 4 .. 1 ...... CENTREVILLE ..... $715,000 ... Detached ... 0.34 ...... 20121 ...... NORTH HART RUN ...... 01/21/14 Copyright 2014 RealEstate Business Intelligence. Source: MRIS as of February 14, 2014. 6 6471 Lake Meadow Drive, Burke — $1,037,500

6 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Home LifeStyle

The D.C. Design House Designers Townhouse garden design and installation Announced Some of the area’s top design- Make your garden ers competed for an opportunity to donate their talent to transform dreams come true! a local, grand home into a show- case home. Local designers chosen to help transform the 2014 DC Photo by Jesse Snyder FREE CONSULTATION Design House include: Local designers will turn this estate into a “flowing www.jewelboxgardensbysuzanne.com ❖ Jim Rill and David Benton of design home” to raise funds for a local charity. [email protected] Rill Architects in Potomac, Md. ❖ Victoria Sanchez of Victoria Sanchez Interiors in Old Town, Alexandria, Va. ❖ Jeff Akseizer and Jamie Brown of Akseizer Design Group in Alexandria, Va. ❖ Allie Mann, based in Arling- ton, Va., of Case Design/Remod- eling ❖ Susan Donelson and Sharon Bubenhofer of Cleveland Hall De- sign in Alexandria. ❖ Nancy Colbert of Design Part- ners, LLC in McLean, Va. Now in its seventh year, the annual event is a fundraiser for Children’s National Health System (formally Children’s National Medi- cal Center). The D.C. Design House has raised more than $1 million and attracted more than 55,000 COME EXPERIENCE visitors over the past six years. Built in 1929, the home, located THE DIFFERENCE in northwest Washington, D.C., has six bedrooms, five full baths and two half baths and also fea- TODAY. tures a three-car garage and a ALL pool. The stone house offers three C levels and approximately 7,929 square feet of living space for 24 designers to transform. The DC Design House opens to the public on Sunday, April 13 and runs through Sunday, May 11. Hours are Saturday-Sunday, noon- 5 p.m. and Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., closed Monday, $25. A preview party will take place Custom Kitchen & Bath Design, Remodeling and Project Management Saturday, April 12, $50. Visit www.dcdesignhouse.com. Visit Our Showroom at 8934 Burke Lake Rd. in Kings Park Shopping Center Hours: 9:30 am - 6 pm Mon.-Fri.; 10 am - 3 pm Sat. — Marilyn Campbell

Bathroom Remodel Special $6,850 Celebrating 15 Years in Business! TWO POOR TEACHERS Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Select your products Turn unwanted valuables into CA$H! from our Mobile Showroom Handyman Services and Design Center Available: Powerful eBay selling for households and businesses Call 703-999-2928 Single Items • Full Liquidations • Buy-outs Drop off or call for a pick-up...we’ll do the rest! Fully Insured & Class A Licensed ezauctioning.com Free Estimates Est. 1999 703-969-1179 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com 1320 Prince St., Alexandria, VA 22314 • 703.778.6440 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 ❖ 7 Fairfax County REAL ESTATE 2014 Assessments by Area Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust (D) Hunter Mill Supervisor Cathy Hudgins (D) saw a 6.16% drop in his property value when compared to 2013. saw her assessment go up 10.80% The county valued Foust's house at f $575 910 i 2013 t $638 100 i 2014 $3 109 050 l t d $2 917 660 thi

Great Falls 4.82% $1,025,393

Reston McLean 8.26% 5.91% Herndon $411,396 $841,656 7.44% Vienna $458,840 6.53% $653,885 Chantilly 8.34% 4.48% $440,958 $667,276

Falls Churchh Fairf entreville 6.49 839% $460 McKay (D) me assessment. saw a 11.96% increase in worth $710,220, the value of his home over the las year. Frey's home was assessed at $225,8 and $252,830 in 2014.

nt Vernon Supervisor Gerry Hyland s no property listed.

saw a 7.22% increase in the value of her house when compared to last year. Smyth's home was valued at $554,220 in 2013 and $594,220 in 2014.

0% 10% saw a 3.56% gain saw a 13.37% increase in when compared to 2013. the value of his home over the last year. Last year, his home was worth $553,770 and Cook's home was assessed at 2014 County Average (Percent Change) this year it is valued at $573,460. $586,220 in 2013 and $634,760 in 2014. Single Family Detached $598,711 (5.82%) Townhouse $370,849 (8.39%) Condos $247,943 (10.51%)

saw her home value go down 2.62% ZIP CODE AREA 2013 MEAN 2014 MEAN PERCENT CHANGE from $617,750 in 2013 to $601,550 in 2014. Alexandria/Mount Vernon 381,426 404,816 6.12 Annandale 381,386 412,731 8.22 Burke 395,580 423,334 7.02 Centreville 341,337 369,964 8.39 Chantilly 407,026 440,958 8.34 Clifton 620,491 640,996 3.30 Fairfax 432,104 460,128 6.49 The average assessed value of a Fairfax Station 603,429 633,148 4.93 Falls Church 383,502 414,927 8.19 single family home in Fairfax County Great Falls 978,233 1,025,393 4.82 Herndon 427,060 458,840 7.44 Lorton 350,288 371,545 6.07 for 2014 is $598,711, up 5.82% McLean 794,688 841,656 5.91 Oakton 638,692 667,276 4.48 Reston 379,741 411,096 8.26 Springfield 373,964 400,004 6.96 Vienna 613,796 653,885 6.53 SOURCE: Fairfax County for single family, townhouses and condominiums

8 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ HomeLifeStyle Spring 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com