Great Falls News, Page 7 Drones to Help

Senior Living Page 6

Chef Jacques Haeringer stands outside L’Auberge Chez François with his cooking for romance DVD set and companion cookbook ‘Two for Tonight.’

Celebrating Romance In Great Falls News, Page 7 Drones to Help

Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, 8 Classifieds, With Public Safety?

News, Page 3 1-31-19 home in Requested

Time sensitive material. material. sensitive Time

Attention Postmaster: Postmaster: Attention ECR WSS ECR

Jacque Olin to Receive Customer Postal

permit #322 permit

Easton, MD Easton,

PAID Tibbetts Award Postage U.S.

People, Page 2 STD PRSRT Courtesy photo January 30 - February 5, 2019 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com People Friends of Jacque Olin to Receive the Tibbetts Award for 2019 Riverbend The Great Falls Histori- Charles attended cal Society has an- Dickinson College in Park to Hold nounced that Jacque Olin Pennsylvania. They has been chosen as the moved to McLean in Native Plant 2019 Tibbetts Award 1963 to take full-time Honoree. The Society positions with the Sale in May applauds Olin’s tireless, Smithsonian Institution. Friends of Riverbend passionate, and enduring A chemist by training, Park, Inc. Annual Native advocacy on behalf of Olin pioneered archaeo- Plant Sale will be held on numerous community logical analysis of col- Saturday, May 4, 8 – 11 projects in Great Falls for lected objects at the a.m. at the Riverbend Park more than forty-eight Smithsonian, founding Outdoor Classroom/Picnic years. The award will be the department of Shelter, 8700 Potomac Hills presented at the Annual Archaeometry, a special- Street, Great Falls. Tibbetts Award Dinner ized field of Archaeology. Native plants, ferns and on Feb. 12, 2019. Olin has authored and shrubs may be viewed and Olin served as Presi- edited numerous articles pre-ordered online from dent of the Great Falls on this special analysis of Jan. 24 through March 16 Historical Society from museum objects. on FORB’s website at May 2000 until May Olin’s love and appre- www.forb.wildapricot.org/ 2002. She presented ciation of Great Falls be- Native-Plant-Sale, paid for many interesting histori- gan in 1971, when she online by credit card or cal programs such as the and her husband moved PayPal, and picked up at Great Falls Civil War his- Photo courtesy of Brookhaven National Laboratory to Great Falls. She has the Outdoor Classroom on tory, the history of horses Jacque Olin with Dr. Douglas Donahue at work in the Smithsonian, 1991. been devoted in her belief Friday, May 3, the day in Great Falls, the that the Great Falls His- before the sale to the Potomac River Watershed, and histories, which were taken in the Olin serves on the Board of the torical Society must fulfill its role general public. Don’t miss activities which lead up to the in- 1980s, to be made available to the Analemma Society, the astronomy as educator, collector, and the con- this opportunity to get tegration of Fairfax County community. Olin also produced club her husband Charles founded. servator of the Great Falls heritage. native plants for your schools, to name a few. Great Falls Day, Old Schoolhouse Her leadership also helped the suc- The Tibbetts Award Dinner will spring garden and support Olin formed a Committee for Day, and Grange and Community cessful outcome of a Curatorship be held on Feb. 12, 2019, 6:30 Riverbend Park at the Inventories of Great Falls Histori- Day. Two beautiful Great Falls cal- for the Turner Farm House on p.m. at The Old Brogue, Great same time. cal Sites, which included photos endars were produced and sold to Great Falls Pike. Falls. For information. visit and writings. She organized oral the Community. Both Jacque and her husband www.gfhs.org

2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected]

Photos by Andrea Worker/The Connection Dave Rohrer, deputy county executive in charge of the county’s public Supervisor John Foust (Dranesville District) welcomes attendees to the safety departments and programs, and Maj. Christian Quinn with Fairfax public meeting on a proposal to establish an Unmanned Aircraft Systems County Police are heavily involved in the UAS program development and program for Fairfax County Public Safety departments at the McLean are part of the group making the presentations to the public before the Governmental Center. group seeks approval to launch from the Board of Supervisors. Drones to Help with Public Safety?

inspect infrastructure, checking power and County Presents Draft Proposal for drone program at public meetings. gas lines, bridges, levees, roads, and more for damage or potential failures. By Andrea Worker use of drones by emergency management Shrout and Rohrer assured attendees that The Connection and law enforcement, not public recre- drone usage would be for “targeted use, not ational activity, although a planned half-day random surveillance activity.” airfax County emergency manage- drone session tentatively scheduled for the The two men reported that privacy and ment personnel want to add un- Fall if the program is approved, would in- civil rights were given priority when devel- Fmanned aircraft systems – more clude information about the private use of oping the draft operational manual and that commonly known as drones – to drones in the area. there are related UAS laws already on the their toolkit of resources. In May of 2017 Shrout and Rohrer made a case for using books, including the requirement of a search they began the process, gathering informa- drones for public safety. warrant in most instances in order to use tion and stakeholders and putting pens and UAS for law enforcement and public safety calculations to paper to outline their rea- COST SAVINGS is just one factor. purposes. soning before taking their preliminary find- Comparing the price of just one helicop- “The ACLU has been a great resource and ings and recommendations to the Board of ter at around $1 million, versus a drone at partner, helping to consider the public’s Supervisors in January of 2018. Roy Shrout, deputy coordinator for about $1500, makes a fleet of drone equip- rights in all aspects of UAS usage,” said At that meeting, the Board deferred any the Fairfax County Office of Emer- ment appear affordable. Rohrer. decision until a task force was formed to gency Management and the man- Shrout also lists operational capability, The program would not be used to “tar- address all ancillary issues and public in- ager for the proposed Unmanned safety, live streaming ability and the en- get a person based solely on individual char- put could be sought. Aircraft Systems (UAS) program, hanced level of documentation possible, as acteristics, such as, but not limited to race, To date, that task force, which includes gave the presentation to the public reasons to add drones as an option. ethnicity, gender, national origin, religion the departments of Emergency Manage- at the McLean area meeting. “Just think of what we could do, more or disability” or to “harass, intimidate or ment, Public Affairs and Legal, the County safely and more efficiently?” said Shrout, discriminate against any individual or group Police, Fire and Rescue, the Fairfax County program. Foust credited Shrout and com- going on to name just a few of the circum- or conduct personal business or any other Park Authority, local drone organizations pany for the thoroughness of their efforts, stances in which drones could be invalu- unauthorized use.” and representatives from the American Civil the inclusion of so many viewpoints and able. UAS pilots would require extensive train- Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Audubon areas of expertise in the task force, and for ❖ Natural disaster and severe weather ing and be fully certified as required by law. Society among others, has met twice, and the transparency that the group maintains surveillance and documentation The draft program is calling for a 3-person has a third meeting scheduled on Feb. 19. with county officials, interested stakehold- ❖ Crash reconstruction from all angles operational team for safety, with one op- Public information and feedback sessions ers and partners, and with the public. and high definition erator, one observer, and one person who have also begun, with the second meeting Shrout was the headliner at the meeting, ❖ Search and rescue missions where “the would maintain situational awareness. taking place on Jan. 22 at the McLean Gov- supported by Dave Rohrer, deputy county drone can perform a programmed grid At the McLean meeting, attendees ex- ernmental Center. In total, 6 public presen- executive for public safety. search to find a missing child or endangered pressed interest and generally approval for tations are scheduled throughout the Shrout and Rohrer said that the program, adult” the proposal. A few questions, mostly re- county, and feedback received through the and the 40+ page draft “UAS Program and ❖ Hazardous materials incidents investi- lated to personal drone use were asked, and close of business of Feb. 8, 2019, will be Operations Manual” (available online on gations a few suggestions were made on topics that included in the official public record that is the county’s website) are just that – drafts. ❖ Highway, stream and stormwater sys- could be included in the planned media/ planned for presentation to the Board’s “Nothing is approved yet,” said Shrout. tems management training even. Public Safety Committee on March 12. Taking best practices from around the coun- ❖ Wildlife management The complete draft manual and informa- try and from the other 25 programs already ❖ Active shooter or other dangerous situ- tion about the proposed program are avail- AT THE MCLEAN EVENT, Dranesville in operation in Virginia – including in ations where the drone could get a closer able at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/uas. The District Supervisor John Foust gave open- Loudoun and Stafford counties – “with the look, without endangering law enforcement public is invited to provide feedback on this ing remarks praising the preparatory work work of the task force and feedback from personnel webpage by Feb. 8, for inclusion in the pub- done by Roy Shrout, and his gathered col- our citizens, we hope to secure the approval ❖ Fire investigation and fighting, again, lic record, although “your comments are leagues. Shrout is the deputy coordinator of the Board and be operational later this providing significant amounts of data, with always welcome at our email address for the Fairfax County Office of Emergency year.” less risk to personnel [email protected],” said Shrout before Management and the manager for the drone Shrout said the discussion was about the Unmanned equipment could be used to the meeting concluded. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 ❖ 3 Opinion Great Falls

Human Trafficking: Monstrosity in Our Backyard www.ConnectionNewspapers.com An independent, locally owned weekly By Pat Herrity newspaper delivered jected to surpass the drug trade protect our children before they fall prey to to homes and businesses. Springfield District Supervisor as the first. the horrors of this monstrous crime. With traf- Published by (R) Prevention of this heinous crime ficking cases involving all 26 high schools in Local Media Connection LLC starts with awareness, which is Fairfax County, we cannot fall into the mindset uman trafficking is why I support January as Human that it could never happen to us, never to our 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 a heinous crime Trafficking Awareness Month. kid. and major issue in For that reason, I recently I’ve listened to heartbreaking stories of par- Free digital edition delivered to H your email box. Go to Northern Virginia. awarded a proclamation to Bill ents who never believed something as awful The victims are often children, Woolf, executive director of Just as sex trafficking would happen to their daugh- connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe teens, and young adults who are Ask Prevention, declaring January ter or son, until the police found their child forced to have sex with as many 2019 as Human Trafficking assaulted and drugged in a hotel room. No NEWS DEPARTMENT: as 30 customers a day while their Awareness Month. Just Ask Pre- child and no family should ever have to go [email protected] trafficker profits. It’s easy to think that this vention is a leading nonprofit I’ve worked through that pain. awful exploitation of our most vulnerable closely with, as their goal is to make sure that Those parents have impressed upon me the Kemal Kurspahic ❖ citizens wouldn’t be prevalent in one of the young people and parents are able to protect importance of listening to our kids and asking Editor 703-778-9414 [email protected] richest regions in the country. But the truth themselves and their children from becoming them questions about the people they meet and is it’s happening in our backyards, and the victims of trafficking. interact with before they are manipulated into Andrea Worker fight to end it starts with raising awareness Over the last few years, we’ve worked to- believing there is no way out. Contributing Writer to prevent it. gether to support the implementation of hu- But it’s not enough to just watch out for our [email protected] As a member of the Board of Supervisors, man trafficking curriculum in Fairfax County own kid. As a community, we need to look out Jean Card I’m proud to say that I’ve supported anti-hu- Public Schools. This curriculum teaches stu- for other people’s kids as well by taking notice Production Editor man trafficking legislation for many years, in- dents to recognize the recruiting and manipu- of the kids on our daughter’s soccer team, at [email protected] cluding nationally recognized bipartisan leg- lation tactics of traffickers. As some survivor our son’s bus stop, and at the fast food place islation put forward by former Congresswoman videos note in the curriculum, often times these on the corner. Together we can ensure that our Barbara Comstock. I continue to support the tactics are subtle, not the “snatch-and-grab” community is inhospitable to all forms of hu- ADVERTISING: For advertising information efforts of Fairfax County law enforcement, tactic you would expect. Traffickers are becom- man trafficking and that no kid goes unnoticed [email protected] nonprofits, faith groups, and schools in the ing increasingly savvy in trapping their victims, and unprotected. 703-778-9431 fight to end human trafficking, but there’s still even using social media to identify teens who If you or someone you know is a victim of so much to be done. are likely targets and grooming them through human trafficking, contact the National Sex Salome Howard-Gaibler Since 2013 Northern Virginia has seen over flattery. Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text Display Advertising 703-415-5394 500 cases of human trafficking, in addition to As a father of two, I see raising awareness 233733 for help. If you are in immediate dan- [email protected] a significant spike in calls to the National Hu- of human trafficking as critical for securing ger, call 911. man Trafficking Hotline within the last two the safety of our children. While I have sup- For more information about protecting your- Debbie Funk years. Human trafficking is the second fastest ported many grants to provide funding for our self and others from human trafficking, visit National Sales growing crime sector nationally, and is pro- police to combat trafficking, awareness can http://www.justaskprevention.org. 703-778-9444 [email protected]

David Griffin Marketing Assistant Tax Season Is Upon Us 703-778-9431 [email protected] By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum were the winners with the federal income residents typically spend that money Classified & Employment State Delegate (D-36) changes could significantly reduce on goods and services, it boosts the local Advertising monies to a state that is already economy as well. 703-778-9431 he arrival of W-2 forms in struggling to meet its obligations There is a sense of urgency in the General the mail reminds us, even to funding schools, mental health Assembly that this issue be resolved as soon as T Editor & Publisher if we may have momen- programs and other priorities. possible because it impacts every household. Mary Kimm tarily tried to forget, that tax sea- Essentially Gov. Northam pro- Not only is there a great deal of confusion, but [email protected] son is upon us. This is no ordinary posed that additional revenues be that confusion will be multiplied many times @MaryKimm tax year however. Massive changes used for investments in education, as people start to prepare their returns with in federal tax laws will result in workforce development, ex- incomplete directions. The challenge has been Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon significant changes at the state panded broadband and targeted known for several months. Tax season is upon 703-549-0004 level as well. No one can speak tax relief to those who work at the us. Our tax policy needs to resolved now. [email protected] with authority as to what the differences will lowest wages. Republicans have proposed a be for an individual taxpayer as the state Gen- plan to return more money to taxpayers, but Editor in Chief eral Assembly has not revised state tax law to there is strong concern that the Republican Steven Mauren Managing Editor reflect the federal changes. plan will make big dents in the state budget. Kemal Kurspahic The situation we are in is not new. Anytime All agree that a decision needs to be reached Write Art/Design: the Congress makes changes in federal tax soon for taxpayers to file their tax forms as Laurence Foong, John Heinly, policy the state must adjust to those changes soon as possible and as accurately as possible. The Connection welcomes views on any Ali Khaligh and decide whether to adopt the federal policy In past years as many as 650,000 taxpayers public issue. Production Manager: The deadline for all material is noon Friday. Geovani Flores or to put in new state provisions. As a confor- have filed in the first ten days of February. Letters must be signed. Include home mity state Virginia has generally followed fed- I am patron of a bill supported by Gov. address and home and business numbers. eral policy allowing taxpayers to file state re- Northam that would make a portion of the Letters are routinely edited for libel, CIRCULATION turns using the information on their federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refundable grammar, good taste and factual errors. [email protected] form. The difference this year is that the fed- to taxpayers based on their income and family By email: eral changes are so massive that conformity is size. The current Virginia EITC set at 20 per- [email protected] not realistic without major changes in the way cent of the federal EITC does not allow for a state forms are filed. refund of its full value as is done in 23 other Send to: Letters to the Editor Adding to the fact that the forms may be dif- states. Under the bill I introduced it is esti- The Connection ferent is the fact that there are major differ- mated that as much as $250 million would be 1606 King St. ences between the way deductions and credits returned to the pockets of hard-working Vir- Alexandria VA 22314 have been handled and what will constitute ginians who are at the lowest pay levels. This taxable income. High income taxpayers that helps not only those workers but since low-

4 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters Robert Beatson II Attorney/Accountant, Documenting Cub Scout Pack History; Former IRS Attorney Admitted to DC, MD, VA & NY Bars Calling All Former Pack 673 Participants All Types of Federal, State, To the Editor: recollections, or any other infor- Great Falls Elementary PTA, we Local & Foreign Taxes This school year marks the 65th mation about the Pack and its his- believe — in 1953. Individual • Business anniversary of the founding of Cub tory that they may wish to share. If any readers have any information Trusts • Estates • Wills Scout Pack 673, which meets regu- We are especially interested in or items of interest that they would Amended & Late Returns larly at Great Falls Elementary finding out about the history of the like to share with the Pack, please Back Taxes • IRS Audits School. We are planning to cel- pack prior to the year 2000, about email us at [email protected]. • Civil Litigation ebrate this milestone at our annual which we have very little informa- We would be thrilled to hear from you Business Law • Contracts Blue and Gold Dinner on Feb. 21. tion. We know that the pack has and will get back to you promptly. In preparation for this, we are been chartered by Christ the King 703-798-3590 or reaching out to find former Pack Lutheran Church since the early Eric Raudenbush 673 cub scouts and leaders that 1980s, but recently learned that it Cub Pack 673, Great Falls 301-340-2951 may have photos, memorabilia, was originally chartered — by the Committee Chair www.beatsonlaw.com

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731-C WALKER RD.· GREAT FALLS, VA State Farm Insurance Companies Home Ofﬁce Bloomington, Illinois Proud Supporter of Military Appreciation Mondays www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 ❖ 5 Senior Living Weight Lifting in the Golden Years When done properly, strength training can have tremendous benefits for seniors.

By Marilyn Campbell ing strong quadricep and hamstring muscles strengthen the quadriceps, or the muscles means that you’ll be able to enjoy those in the thigh area. It’s been interesting to ichard Foley of McLean says he activities longer. It also means that you’ll watch her gain leg strength and be able to hits the gym at 7:30 five morn- have the strength and endurance to navi- walk longer distances. But strengthening Rings a week. He spends about gate difficult terrain during vacations and the quads can also protect your knees and 40 minutes lifting weights fol- other activities that involve walking. prevent injuries and other problems.” lowed by 40 minutes of walking on the tread- Strength training can lead to a sense of The bicep and tricep muscles of the arm mill and 10 minutes of sit-ups and crunches. independence for everyday activities like are also important to building strength. “All “I’ve always been physically active,” he grocery shopping or even getting up from a you need are a pair of light to medium said. “I’ve actually slowed down a little, but chair, says Jay Rader, a private health and weight dumbbells,” said Kat Chetrit, a per- it’s important to me to keep going for as fitness coach based in Arlington. “When you sonal trainer in Fairfax. “Two great exer- long as I can.” strengthen the muscles around your joints, cises, that are also relatively simple are A National Institutes of Health (NIH) you can prolong and even improve your bicep curls where you hold the weight in study of Americans over the age of 60 range of motion,” he said. your hand and bend your arm at the elbow showed that strength training, such as lift- Weight training for seniors, says Days, and curl the weight in the direction of your ing weights, reduced the risk of osteoporo- comes with caveats. “Just because it’s ben- shoulder; and hammer curls, which are very sis and chronic conditions such as heart dis- eficial doesn’t mean that an 89-year-old similar except that you hold the weight like ease and diabetes. It also found that should go out and start trying to lift 50 you would a hammer. Those are both great strength-training exercises has the ability pound weights so that he can regain the exercises for maintaining arm strength.” to increase muscles strength and mass and ability to walk up three flights of stairs like Strength-training exercises has the Days however, underscores the fact that allows seniors to stay mobile longer, while he could 30 years ago,” she said. “The ben- ability to increase muscles there are risks involved “You can strain a also combating weakness and frailty. efits of strength training are tremendous, strength and mass and allows muscle or drop a weight on yourself or even “Improving and increasing the muscles in but they also come with risks and must be seniors to stay mobile longer. fracture a bone,” she said. “With the eld- your legs for example, makes them stron- done safely. You should definitely consult erly, these injuries can take a longer time ger, which means that you’ll be able to main- with a doctor before beginning any kind of are over the age of 60, and while he per- to heal than they would in a person who is tain your ability to walk without assistance exercise program, and it would be my strong sonalizes each client’s workout, there are much younger. The benefits definitely out- longer than you might otherwise,” said Rita recommendation that any one over the age specific exercises that are particularly ben- weigh the risks, but you want to be safe and Days, RN, a gerontological nurse in Falls of 50 hire a personal trainer if they’re start- eficial to seniors. “I have one client who is smart. That includes talking with your doc- Church who was not involved in the study. ing any kind of exercise program.” 72 and began training with me when she tor and getting help from a personal train- “For seniors who enjoy traveling, shopping In fact, David Schwartz, a personal trainer was 68,” he said. “The workouts that I do ing, especially if you’ve never or rarely ex- or any activity that requires walking, hav- in Bethesda says that he has four clients who with her include lunges and squats which ercised before.” How To Best Meet Needs of Older Residents?

community including opportunities to work, ticipate in the survey. or during the public comment period of County-wide survey socialize and volunteer; issues facing these ❖ Week of Feb. 11: Selected respondents their regular monthly meetings (for a sched- adults such as retirement, housing and will receive their survey materials to be ule of upcoming meetings go to seeks public input. caregiving; and their usage of community completed online or in writing and re- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/ services like public transportation and se- turned. older-adults/fairfax-area-commission-on- The material in these notes and calendar listings ❖ comes from the Golden Gazette. To subscribe to the nior centers. Spring: Staff will review and analyze aging Golden Gazette or update an address, call 703- “The survey is a unique opportunity for survey results and post the findings online You can follow the county’s progress on 324-5633. Send email to us to make our voices heard in a powerful along with next-steps in the process. this survey initiative and find additional [email protected]. Go to way,” said Carolyn Sutterfield, chairman of While not everyone will receive a survey, ways to share comments and suggestions www.fairfaxcounty.gov/OlderAdults. Click on the Golden Gazette. the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging. The everyone is encouraged to make their voice on aging online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ commission, the citizens advisory council heard. The public is welcome to contribute topics/50-plus-community-survey. n February, thousands of adults — 50 for the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, over- suggestions and comments to the Fairfax Questions? Iand over — will find yellow postcards sees and promotes the five-year Fairfax 50- Area Commission on Aging by email at Call 703-324-4444 or submit questions by email in their mailboxes inviting them to par- plus Community Action Plan adopted by the [email protected] to [email protected]. ticipate in Fairfax County’s first 50-plus Board of Supervisors in 2014. Sutterfield Community Survey for Fairfax County and strongly encourages those who receive the Seniors Calendar the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. survey to take the time to complete it, The survey is part of a county-wide ini- whether online or by mail. “The 20 min- ❖ Feb. 4, 10:15 a.m.-2 p.m. AARP Free Tax assorted flowers and Valentine trim. You get to tiative to create a more aging-friendly com- utes you spend on this have the potential Preparation Services. AARP is offering free tax keep the beautiful topiary for yourself. Green help with a preference given to older adults. Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Rd., munity. Survey recipients will be randomly- to improve the quality of life for older adults Arrive at least one hour before the session Alexandria. To register, call 703-642-5173 or selected throughout Fairfax County and the in the Fairfax community for years to come,” closes. Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 703-222-4664. cities of Falls Church and Fairfax. she said. Survey results will play an impor- Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria. For ❖ Feb. 11, 10-11 a.m. Assisted Living: Can I Afford information and additional dates, call 703-765- It? Find answers to how much assisted living “More than 25 percent of Fairfax County tant role in planning the next 50-plus Com- 3645. costs and what expenses Medicare/Medicaid residents are 50 and over, and we can ex- munity Action Plan. ❖ Feb. 6, 9:30-11:30 a.m. LLI/NOVA Forum: Will cover. In addition, discuss planning to pay for pect to see that number dramatically in- The county has contracted with the Na- we have enough money to manage well in our expenses and how this influences your retirement years? Hear about how to manage retirement and legacy goals. Free. Vienna crease in the coming years,” said Bryan Hill, tional Research Center to conduct the sur- money in retirement years and how to avoid Community Center, 120 Cherry St. SE., Vienna. Fairfax County Executive. “We want to learn vey. All responses are anonymous. serious pitfalls at each stage of retirement. Free To register, call 703-255-7801. more about the experience of aging in and open to the public. Free parking. Ernst ❖ Feb. 12, 7-8 p.m. Register for Fairfax County’s Cultural Center, NOVA Annandale Campus, free Family Caregiver Telephone Support Group. Fairfax County so that we can better meet SURVEY TIMELINE 8333 Little River Tnpk., Annandale. Call 703- Call in to join this month’s discussion the needs of our 50-plus community.” ❖ Week of Feb. 4: 22,000 randomly-se- 503-0600. “Prevention and Problem Solving.” Discuss how The local governments conducting the lected adults – 50 and over – will receive a ❖ Feb. 9, 2-3:30 p.m. Floral Design Workshop: to use problem solving and prevention Valentine Topiary. Branch out for Valentine’s techniques to avoid the crisis trap. To register, survey hope to learn more about the yellow postcard in the mail indicating that Day by making a topiary arrangement with call 703-324-5376. lifestyles of individuals among the 50-plus they have been randomly selected to par-

6 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Celebrating Romance in Great Falls Where to wine, dine and relax in Great Falls on Valentine’s Day.

By Jennifer Flanagan other’s favorite bottle of The Connection wine. Other holiday fa- vorites are pairing wines alentine’s Day is fast approach- for a special meal or ing and Great Falls vendors are champagne. Vprepared to celebrate your loved One of Ashton’s most ones. recent additions and fea- The family-owned L’Auberge Chez tured this Valentine’s Day Francois and Jacques’ Brasserie, nestled is the Amami Rosso deep on six acres of Great Falls, is a local Veneto ’16, imported favorite for celebrating Valentine’s Day, and from Italy (pictured). The romance in general. Open Table Diners and wine is a blend of Merlot USA Today recognize L’Auberge Chez and Corvina grape, with Francois as the number one romantic res- an “intense purple color, taurant in the D.C. Metro area and one of tending towards garnet the Top 100 Restaurants in America for with ageingÉ The taste is Romance. juicy, spicy red with a The owner and head chef Jacques riding creamy palate and Haeringer is well versed in cooking for ro- a long, refined finish.” mance. He is the host of a thirteen series according to Classic Photo courtesy of Carol Heubner show titled Two for Tonight that aired on Wines January newslet- Chef Jacques Haeringer leads one of his The Amami Rosso Veneto ’16 wine is on PBS and author of the companion cookbook ter. annual romantic cooking demonstration display at Classic Wines of Great Falls in featuring recipes that inspire romance Download the Classic and luncheons last Valentine’s Day at anticipation of Valentine’s Day. through food and togetherness. Wines app for 20 percent L’Auberge Chez Francois. As Chef Jacques writes in the introduc- Sugar Up, Sugar! is a small local pastry tion to Two for Tonight, “Romantic celebra- business in Great Falls. Leslie Hollander, the tions are a tradition at L’Auberge Chez owner and pastry specialist, began her cu- Fran ois, you might even say that they are linary career as a student of the cooking our raison d’etreÉ Many couples return to school L’Academie de Cuisine where she L’Auberge Chez Francois and Jacques’ Bras- graduated first in her class. serie year after year to renew and reaffirm As a 21-year resident of Great Falls, Hol- the romance in their lives. We supply the lander says she loves her community and cuisine, ambience, service, and wine: you “her dream is to become the Great Falls bring your own romantic magic.” Baker.” Known for her creative flavor com- This Valentine’s event includes an inti- binations and quality ingredients, Hollander mate dinner featuring co-host Clovis takes pride in her customer experience and Tattinger, General Director Damien Le works with clients to deliver their fantasy Sueurf of Tattinger House. Clovis will pastry from scratch. She is recognized for present the history of his iconic brand and her handmade chocolate truffles and itera- discuss each of the five champagnes. All tions of chocolates and caramels. champagnes served will be on sale for a Photo courtesy of Leslie Hollander This Valentine’s Day Sugar Up, Sugar! is special price with Tattinger on hand to sign Custom chocolates created by featuring special flavors of truffles: orange guest’s bottles to take home and recreate pastry chef Leslie Hollander of cardamom, Mayan, lavender and bourbon. the magical evening. Sugar Up, Sugar! Custom orders and flavors are also avail- Reservations are hard to come by – de- Photo courtesy of Pure Spa able to special order. Hollander also is sell- mand far exceeds supply each year and the Relax at Pure Spa in a special ing salted caramels, custom heart shaped 2019 date is already sold out. Chef Jacques room designed for a romantic cakes by order and heart-shaped sugar jokes the men’s voices get higher and higher couple’s massage. cookies designed to resemble the candy on the phone as Valentine’s Day approaches Sweethearts. Customers purchase her past- and they call to make a reservation only to ries for loved ones and as teacher gifts on find out the tables are booked. Valentine’s Day, and businesses work with The restaurant is celebrating romance the her to create special gifts for their custom- entire month of February with special events ers on the special day. Hollander provides including romantic wine dinners, cooking free delivery for her Great Falls customers. demonstrations, musicals, brunch and more. The restaurant’s website ADELER JEWELERS houses a two story www.laubergechezfrancois.com has more Adeler Jewelers offers one-of-a-kind gifts, design showroom featuring hundreds of cus- information and registration links. from authentic ancient coin cuff links to tom jewelry prices designed by owner Jorge ruby and diamond earrings...and everything Adeler. This Valentine’s Day Adeler Jewelers CLASSIC WINES of Great Falls is a fine in between will be offering 15 percent off any purchase wine, beer, gourmet and cigar shop, which off Walker Road. The cozy and serene spa for your special someone for the first two has been serving Northern Virginia since off your first purchase and access to VIP dis- offers beauty treatments and signature weeks of February (Feb. 1-14). This applies 1992. Manager Richard “Rich” Ashton has counts, loyalty programs, products, services, massages such as Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot to any in stock pieces. Loose diamonds are years of wine and food experience, and event information and specials. Join the Stone and Aromatherapy, as well as the ro- not included. Wendy Adeler notes, “the jew- prides himself on being able to recommend Wine Club for even more benefits and first mance holiday favorite Couples Massage. elry is one-of-a-kind, just like your sweet- just the right wine for that special meal, or consideration of limited releases. Pure Spa is offering 20 percent off any mas- heart. From authentic ancient coin cuff links just for everyday drinking enjoyment. sage or facial service on Feb. 14, and 3 days to ruby and diamond earrings...and every- He noted customers often come to his REJUVENATE the mind, body and spirit before and after. The spa is quickly becom- thing in between. Browse at your leisure store in early February in anticipation for with a tranquil and relaxing massage for ing a local favorite relaxation spot and while enjoying refreshments and free and the special day to purchase their significant you and your loved one at Pure Spa, located boasts a five star rating on Yelp. convenient parking.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 ❖ 7 Entertainment

The Wizard of Oz Rediscover the joy of following the yellow brick road with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion as they travel through the eclectic world of Oz. Saturday, Feb. 2, 1 p.m. at The Alden Theatre at McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. $15/$10 MCC tax district residents; family friendly; 60 minutes. Visit mcleancenter.org/alden- theatre for more. Calendar Submit entertainment announcements discounts. Increase flexibility, the story remains the same. General at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- improve breathing and health, reduce admission is $14. Tickets may be endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. stress. Ravi Kaur has 15 years purchased online at Photos/artwork encouraged. experience teaching yoga. $15 per www.viennatheatrecompany.com/ session. www.edimprovement.org. ordering-tickets-online/, in advance 571-213-3192. at the Vienna Community Center or ONGOING Colvin Run Mill open 11-4 p.m. daily, at the door by cash, credit card or The Golden Girls of Northern closed Tuesday. 10017 Colvin Run check prior to each to each Virginia, a senior women’s softball Road, Great Falls. Fairfax County’s performance (if seats are still league, is looking for players. Any operational 19th century water available). Visit woman over the age of 40 is powered gristmill, offers recreational www.viennatheatrecompany.com. encouraged to join. All skill levels are and educational activities for all ages through daily tours, school programs welcome. Games are on Wednesday SATURDAY/FEB. 2 evenings and Saturday mornings in and special events. Fees: $7/adult, Vienna, April-October. Other $6 students 16+ with ID, $5 children “The Wizard of Oz.” 1 p.m. at The activities during the year. Visit & seniors. Admission to park is free Alden Theatre at McLean Community www.goldengirls.org. except for some special events. Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Free Tai Chi. Saturdays through March Rediscover the joy of following the yellow brick road with Dorothy, the 30, from 7:55-9 a.m., Introduction THURSDAY/JAN. 31 and Beginners’ Practice, meet in the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Langley Hall at Trinity United Meet-and-Greet for History Cowardly Lion as they travel through Methodist Church, 1205 Dolley Lovers. 7 p.m. at Hunter House the eclectic world of Oz. $15/$10 Madison Blvd., McLean. All are inside Nottoway Park, 9537 MCC tax district residents; family welcome. Call 703-759-9141 or visit Courthouse Road, Vienna. The friendly; 60 minutes. Visit www.FreeTaiChi.org for more. Fairfax County Park Authority is mcleancenter.org/alden-theatre. Trivia Night. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. at Lost hosting a Meet and Greet for its Historic Sites Volunteer Corps. Park Dog Cafe - McLean, 1690 Anderson SUNDAY/FEB. 3 Road, McLean. Trivia featuring Authority staff will be there to talk multiple winners and fun door prizes. about the things the Corps has done Lox and Lecture: “The Island of Free to play. Visit and will be doing in the coming year. Roses – Tragedy in Paradise.” www.facebook.com/EarthTriviaDc/ To RSVP for the gathering, email 11:45 a.m. at Temple Rodef Shalom, for more. [email protected]. 2100 Westmoreland St., Falls The Freeman Store & Museum Church. Through the memories of her mother, family friends and additional Wednesday through Sunday noon-4 FRIDAY/FEB. 1 p.m. 131 Church St. NE, Vienna. The archival material, Rebecca Samona` Freeman Store & Museum is Live Music: Luke Brindley. 7:30 reconstructs the little known story of dedicated to Preserving and p.m. at Jammin’ Java, 227 Maple the life of the Jews of Rhodes, an promoting Vienna’s heritage through Ave., East, Vienna. With special Italian colony. Following their the identification, preservation, and guest, singer-songwriter and upright deportation to Auschwitz in July interpretation of history significant bass player, Scott Mulvahill. $18. Call 1944 and the destruction of the places, events, and persons. 703-255-1566 or visit community, the handful of survivors Historicviennainc.org www.jamminjava.com for more. kept alive the memories of this Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. Flame centuries-old culture, and conveyed the stories to their descendants. Room, Vienna Volunteer Fire FRIDAY-SUNDAY/FEB. 1-3 Department, 400 Center St. S, There will be a question and answer Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/ “Peter Pan.” Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; session after the movie. Light bagel bingo.html. Saturday-Sunday, 2 p.m. at Vienna and lox brunch prior to the movie. Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Community Center, 120 Cherry St., WoTRS members $7, non-WoTRS Emmaus United Church of Christ, SE, Vienna. Presented by the Vienna members $10. RSVP by Jan. 10 at 900 E Maple Ave. E., Vienna. Theatre Company and Vienna wotrsloxlecturejan2019.eventbrite.com. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Unitarian Department of Parks and Recreation. Email [email protected] or more. Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, In this adaptation, based on the original J.M. Barrie script, Peter will 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. WEDNESDAY/FEB. 6 Gentle Kundalini Yoga, one free be portrayed as a girl by a female introductory session, senior actress. The dynamics change, but Newcomers and Neighbors Coffee.

8 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the McLean Project for the Arts, 1446 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. McLean Newcomers and Neighbors will host a coffee for its members and those who might be interested in joining. Visit www.McLeanNewcomers.org.

FRIDAY/FEB. 8 Concert Chorus Debut Performance. 8 p.m. at St. Thomas More Cathedral, 3901 Cathedral Lane, Arlington. Oakcrest School’s Concert Chorus will perform its first ever full-length concert with the premier of an original piece composed for them by Berklee College of Music Composition Professor Arnold Friedman – a setting of the poem “Pied Beauty” by Gerard Manley Hopkins. Meet the performers at a post-concert reception. Visit cathedralstm.org/ music-ministries/cathedral-concerts. Concert Chorus Debut Performance SATURDAY/FEB. 9 Vienna’s Oakcrest School’s Concert Chorus will perform its first ever full-length Tea Seminar – The Sweet Side of concert with the premier of an original piece composed for them by Berklee Col- Tea. 1-3 p.m. at Colvin Run Mill, lege of Music Composition Professor Arnold Friedman – a setting of the poem “Pied 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Beauty” by Gerard Manley Hopkins. Friday, Feb. 8, 8 p.m. at St. Thomas More This interactive focused tasting Cathedral, 3901 Cathedral Lane, Arlington. Meet the performers at a post-concert seminar explores the many flavors of reception. Visit www.cathedralstm.org/music-ministries/cathedral-concerts. honey and maple syrup and how they can enhance a variety of green, black, and herbal teas. Taste some treats made with these three straight from banner, or on Brown Paper Tickets, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/turner-farm. nature ingredients. A take home tea lhs19capitolstepsfundraiser.bpt.com. sampler included. $35 per person. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ FRIDAY/FEB. 22 colvin-run-mill to register. TUESDAY/FEB. 12 Waterfowl Wintering Along the Tibbetts Award Dinner. 6:30 p.m. at Potomac. 9-11 a.m. at Riverbend The Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Park, 8700 Potomac Hills St., Great SUNDAY/FEB. 10 Great Falls. The Great Falls Historical Falls. Fairfax County is an attractive Maple Syrup Fresh from the Trees. Society will honor Jacque Olin as the spot for waterfowl that don’t mind a Noon-2 p.m. at Colvin Run Mill, 2019 Tibbetts Award Honoree. The little cold. Take the “Winter 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Society applauds Olin’s advocacy on Waterfowl Hike” at Riverbend Park to See sap dripping into collection pails behalf of numerous community see what avian creatures are making on the trees, and discover the projects in Great Falls for more than their residence here over the winter. surprising amount of sap it takes to 48 years. The award will be Hike with a naturalist at the park to make just a little syrup. Taste the presented at the Annual Tibbetts search for winter waterfowl along the combination of maple syrup over Award Dinner. Register by Feb. 6. Upper Potomac River. Bring cornbread made from the mill’s Visit www.gfhs.org for more. binoculars and spotting scopes. For cornmeal, while supplies last. $5 per McLean Historical Society participants age 14-adult. $8 per person for visitors age 3-adult. No Meeting. 7:30 p.m. in the McLean person. Call 703-759-9018 or visit reservations are required. This is an Community Center, 1234 Ingleside fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend. outdoor program, dress for the Avenue, McLean. The program will BRAWS Hosts Mardi Bras. At weather. Call 703-759-2771 or visit feature world renown historian John Westwood Country Club, 800 Maple www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/colvin- Gaudet who will discuss “The Origins Ave. E, Vienna. More than 500 guests run-mill. of Ancient Paper and the First Bible.” are expected at Mardi Bras, which is Winter Concerts: Ayreheart. 4 and Everyone is welcome. Contact Carole the largest annual fundraiser for 6 p.m. seatings at The Old Brogue Herrick at 703-356-8223 for more. BRAWS, a volunteer-driven, Irish Pub, 760-C Walker Road, Great community-based 501(c)3 nonprofit Falls. The Old Brogue Irish Pub of organization that provides homeless Great Falls, VA and Barnaby WEDNESDAY/FEB. 13 women and children with necessities Productions, Inc. present the 30th Movie Series: New Disney including new bras and underwear as season of family friendly, Winter Classics. 12:30 p.m. at The Alden well as menstrual supplies. Tickets Traditional Celtic Concerts performed Community Hall, McLean Community are on sale now at www.braws.org/ in a listening room by the fireside. Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. mardi-bras-2019.html for $100, Tickets must be purchased in The Alden is kicking off a new film which includes hors d’oeuvres, two advance at oldbrogue.com: $18 series with “new Disney Classics” – drinks, raffles, silent auction, music, general admission; $12 children. those that were loved during the photo booth, swag bags, special Annual Salzman Lecture. 6 p.m. in 1990s. The films will be shown at guests and more. BRAWS is seeking the Sanctuary at Lewinsville 12:30 p.m. on the 2nd Wednesday of event sponsorships as well as Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain the month through June. Free donations of items for the raffles and Bridge Road, McLean. This year’s admission. Visit mcleancenter.org/ silent auction. More information can speaker will be Susan Wharton Gates, performing-arts for more. be found at www.braws.org. PhD, author of “Days of Slaughter: Inside the Fall of Freddie Mac – and Why It Could Happen Again.” She SATURDAY/FEB. 16 SATURDAY/FEB. 23 will share experiences and insights as Model Railroaders Open House. 1- Touch Visitors from Space. 11 a.m.- a former vice president of public 5 p.m. at the Vienna Depot, 231 noon at Observatory Park at Turner policy at Freddie Mac in the lead up Dominion Road NE. Northern Farm, 925 Springvale Road, Great to the 30-percent collapse of house Virginia Model Railroaders hold an Falls. “Meteorites: Explore Visitors prices and subsequent government open house at the Vienna Depot each from Space” will be held in the roll- takeover of her company in 2008. month and on Vienna celebration top observatory classroom. Designed Visit www.lewinsville.org for more. days, including Viva! Vienna and the for participants age 5-11 and runs All Night Grad Party Fundraiser. 7 Vienna Holiday Stroll. Free. Call 703- from 11 a.m. to noon. $8 per person. p.m. in the Langley High School 938-5157 or visit www.nvmr.org. Call 703-324-8618 or visit auditorium, 6520 Georgetown Pike, Astronomy Festival. 6-9 p.m. at fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/turner-farm. McLean. The Capitol Steps use song Turner Farm, 925 Springvale Road, The Okee Dokee Brothers. 1 p.m., 4 parodies and skits to bring bi- Great Falls. After the sun sets, soak p.m. and 6:30 p.m. At The Alden, partisan levity to major issues of the up some starshine at an “Astronomy 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Cost is day. Audience members will need to Festival” that will include guided $20/$15 MCC district residents. As be well-versed in current events to stargazing and telescope viewing. childhood friends growing up in keep up with the humor, as it’s fast, Listen to ancient stories about the Denver, CO, Joe Mailander and fresh, and funny. Proceeds from the constellations around the campfire, Justin Lansing were always exploring show will help to pay for Langley’s and participate in other activities and the outdoors. Now, as the Grammy Class of 2019 All Night Grad Party. games throughout the evening. $8 Award-winning Okee Dokee Brothers, Open to the general public. Tickets per person. Hot chocolate and snacks they have put this passion for the are $35 each at will be available for purchase. outdoors at the heart of their www.ptsalangley.org/all-night-grad- Canceled if it rains or snows. Call Americana Folk music. Visit party, under the ANGP Capitol Steps 703-324-8618 or visit www.mcleancenter.org. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 ❖ 9 News Pay Raise Promise Amid Protest Legislators announce 5 percent pay raise for teachers.

By Corrine Fizer Capital News Service

s hundreds of teachers and supporters from around the state marched to the Vir- Aginia Capitol to call for higher salaries and more funding for public schools, legisla- tive leaders announced Monday, Jan. 28, that they would include a 5 percent pay raise for teachers in the state budget. Armed with red coats, scarves and signs, participants of all ages gathered in Monroe Park for a small rally. Then they marched to the Capitol as a girl riding in the back of a small red wagon used a microphone and handheld speaker to lead their chants. The marchers gathered on the Capitol grounds to hear community leaders protest what they see as inadequate funding for public education. Photo by Corrine Fizer/Capital News Service Rodney Robinson, Virginia’s Teacher of the Year, Teachers and supporters march in Rich- said Amazon will receive nearly $3.5 billion in pub- mond seeking more funding for education. lic subsidies from New York, Virginia and Tennessee to locate facilities in those states. Virginia’s state government and Arlington County offered more than “Virginia has some of the $570 million in direct subsidies and about $220 million in transportation improvements to entice Ama- finest teachers in the country zon to put an East Coast headquarters near Reagan and that has led to Virginia National Airport in Crystal City. Robinson said the money Amazon will get could students consistently “pay for more teachers, counselors and 21st-century school buildings that are not infested with roaches, outperforming nationwide rats and mold.” The Virginia Education Association, which repre- peers on standardized tests, sents the state’s teachers, organized the “Red4Ed” rally. The VEA says Virginia ranks 34th among the college admissions, and states in teacher pay. The average annual teacher salary in Virginia is $51,265 — more than $9, 200 graduate rates.” below the national average, according to the asso- —Del. Steve Landes, R-Augusta ciation. According to the Richmond School Board, 1 in 5 der conservative leadership in the House of Del- educators must take a second job to make ends meet. egates, this will be the fourth teacher pay raise in Liz Holmes, a second-grade teacher at Greenville the last six years,” he said. Elementary School in Warrenton, said she has not “I am proud of Chairman Jones and Vice Chair- had a raise in 11 years. Holmes came to the march man Landes for the hard work and dedication they to express her frustration over the lack of “fair com- have shown to ensuring our teachers know how much pensation” in her workplace. they are appreciated in the Commonwealth,” said “We are losing qualified teachers every year to sur- House Speaker Kirk Cox, a retired high school gov- rounding counties that pay higher wages,” Holmes ernment teacher. said, holding a picture of her and her students. “As a public school teacher for 30 years, I know “Enough is enough.” how hard teachers work to educate Virginia’s future As the teachers held their demonstration, Repub- leaders. We must make it a priority to keep great lican lawmakers who control the House of Delegates teachers in the classroom and that starts with mak- announced that they would include a 5 percent raise ing sure our teachers a fairly compensated.” for teachers in the state budget they plan to release Democrats are already on board with the 5 per- on Sunday. Del. Steve Landes, R-Augusta, made the cent pay raise for teachers. In the two-year budget announcement in a speech on the House floor. adopted by the General Assembly in 2018, teachers “Virginia has some of the finest teachers in the were scheduled to receive a 3 percent salary increase country and that has led to Virginia students consis- on July 1. In his proposed revision of the budget, tently outperforming nationwide peers on standard- Gov. Ralph Northam recommended awarding teach- ized tests, college admissions, and graduate rates,” ers an additional 2 percent raise. said Landes, vice chairman of the House Appropria- Northam, a Democrat, reiterated that proposal at tions Committee. “To maintain that success we must a meeting of the Virginia School Board Association ensure our teachers are fairly compensated and know last week, calling it “the largest one-time pay raise the hard work they do each and every day is greatly for teachers in over 15 years.” appreciated.” But Virginia teachers say that their salaries are The committee’s chairman, Republican Del. Chris more than 10 percent below the national average — Jones of Suffolk, said the proposed budget would and that the planned raise does not close the gap. increase teachers’ salaries without raising taxes. “Un- “It’s a start,” Holmes said. “But it’s not enough.”

10 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin Cat It Again Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event. By KENNETH B. LOURIE WINTER SHELTERS As my white cat, Twinkle, continues to walk Find homeless and cold weather drop-in left to right and right to left across my writing centers and shelters that serve Northern Virginia pad with various stops in between for scratching, at www.novaregion.org/174/Homeless-Shelter- nudging, belly-rubbing and paw patty cakes, I Lists. can’t help wondering if there’s a method to her non-madness. She doesn’t appear to be the least INPUT SOUGHT bit agitated. She’s not meowing her presence Shaping the Future Together. Fairfax County or seemingly demanding anything – other than Government is beginning a strategic planning attention, that is. In fact, she’s purring and seems process with the community to shape the future quite pleased with herself. together. The goal is to hear all voices and reach What’s puzzling to me is exactly what the at- all segments of the community. This effort will traction/need is here? I don’t have any treats. Her span most of 2019, but in this first phase, the food and water bowls are not here. Neither is community is being asked to visit her litter box. It’s in the adjacent room. Yet here fairfaxcounty.gov/strategicplan and: she sits and rolls and scratches herself with what ❖ Take a short five-question online survey appears to be not a care or concern in the world. ❖ Join a community conversation in person: Feb. 13 – Reston; Feb. 25 – Alexandria; Feb. 26 – She seems extremely content with her situation. Fairfax; March 6 – Falls Church. I would have expected her to be sleeping in ❖ Share the survey and conversation invitation with the house somewhere like our other four cats. neighbors, co-workers and county family and I mean, it is 2:15 in the afternoon, many hours friends. after her 6:30 breakfast and hours still to go Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program. before her 5:30 dinner. Heck, I’ve even dozed off Fairfax County is developing a comprehensive myself for a bit before I sat down to try and write Public Safety Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) this column. But here she is, wide awake, and program and would like to hear from residents. Each of six public information meetings will back and forth. include a static display of unmanned aircraft My wife, Dina, maintains that cats and dogs followed by a presentation outlining the have a sixth sense when it comes to people be- program. After the presentation, there will be an PUNZPJRHUK[LUK[VOHUNHYV\UK[OVZLHMÅPJ[LK opportunity to ask questions. The formal with something or other, providing aid and presentation will begin at 7 p.m. To find out comfort, if you will. more about the UAS program go to And so, she gets nervous when multiple www.fairfaxcounty.gov/uas. Send feedback or cats surround me when we’re sitting on the questions to [email protected] or through the link located on the UAS webpage. Written couch watching television: a black cat, usually comments on the draft program must be “Sleeky,” lays on top of the couch behind where received by the close of business Feb. 8, 2019, to I’m sitting; Twinkle, sits on the couch next to me be included in the official public record. and cuddles up against my left thigh; and Biscuit ❖ Wednesday, Jan. 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Braddock (one of our two buff-colored brothers) “sphyinxs” Hall – Kings Park Library, 9002 Burke Lake on the coffee table staring at me while I’m hav- Road, Burke. ing to stare through him to watch television. The ❖ Monday, Feb. 4, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mason District other two cats, “Chino” and Andrew are usually Governmental Center, Community Room, 6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale, 22003 sleeping in their spots, out of sight, but never out of mind. A shift change, apparently. “Chino” has just TUESDAYS THROUGH FEB. 19 jumped on my desk and Twinkle has jumped off, Workshop Series: Mind in the Making. 6:30- UVKV\I[[VÄUKH^HYTZWV[[VZSLLWWLYJOHUJL 8:30 p.m. at Dunn Loring Center for Parent to dream. Chino is now laying on his side/back Services, 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1 – – partially on my writing pad, with his rear end Room 100, Dunn Loring. Mind in the Making: pressed up against my left forearm with all four The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child paws raised up in the air not exactly in my direc- Needs by Ellen Galinsky, encompasses an evidence-based list of life skills that are essential [PVUI\[KLÄUP[LS`PUT`WYV_PTP[` for children to succeed socially, emotionally and This cat exchange sort of reminds of how my intellectually in the short and long term. brother and I would alternate our visiting time Participants may register for one or all of the with our parents on Sundays, splitting the day so workshops and do not need to attend the that one of us was always present and accounted previous class. Registration is limited. Call 703- for. 204-3941 or visit www.fcps.edu/resources/ But I’m not sick (OKAY, diseased then), and family-engagement/parent-resource-center for I don’t feel as if I need 24/7-type cat compan- more or to register. ❖ Tuesday, Feb. 5 – Critical Thinking (part 5) ionship. Though I am home alone a lot – and ❖ Tuesday, Feb. 12 – Taking on Challenges (part 6) left with my own thoughts, I don’t view the cats ❖ Tuesday, Feb. 19 – Self-Directed, Engaged shifting around me as anything more than there Learning (part 7) considering me as a big toy. A toy whose movements and appearance are THURSDAY/JAN. 31 stimulating to them, sort of like a giant scratching post infused with catnip. A combination they Poetry & Creative Writing Contest Deadline. couldn’t possibly ignore, like peanut butter and The Fairfax County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. announces its 4th chocolate is to me. Annual Poetry Contest for Middle School So as much as I feel nurtured and loved and Students and Creative Writing for High School comforted by this cat behavior, I don’t feel it’s Students. Visit www.fcacdst.org/creative- because I’m sick, or rather about to be sick writing-contest for contest details and to (again, their sixth sense at work), I feel simply download the applications. Email that we have some very affectionate cats whose [email protected] with questions. indoor-only lives have caused them to become dependent and appreciative of those who feed FRIDAY/FEB. 1 and water them. (We won’t mention that we’re High School Success. 10 a.m.-noon at Dunn also the ones who stuff them into cat carriers and Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows drive them to the vet, an experience which they Road, Entrance 1 – Room 100, Dunn Loring. collectively hate.) Ann Dolin, M.Ed., educational consultant and But if I do get sick (I guess I should be honest: author will presents “High School Success: A get sicker, I do have cancer) I know I can count Strategic Transition for Teens Moving to Higher on “Chino,” Biscuit, Twinkle, Andrew and Grades,” on helping teens finish middle school “Sleeky” to always keep me company. I don’t strong, build positive habits for the future, shift from guided to independent learning, effective know how much better their presence will make time management, and manage their social life me feel, but I do know their presence will keep so it doesn’t interfere with school. Call 703-204- me from feeling worse. 3941 or visit www.fcps.edu/resources/family- engagement/parent-resource-center for more or Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for to register. The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. Prospective Parents’ Luncheon. Noon-2 at www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 ❖ 11 12 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 30 - February 5, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com