Author to Speak in Vienna

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Ready for big games: Oakton High graduate Justin Bartee wears Wake Forest jersey number 40. ‘Walking-on’ Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, 9 Classifieds, Field of Dreams People, Page 5 Town Hall Told of ‘Chaos-Causing Trump Effect’ News, Page 3 ‘A Nun on the Bus’ Author to Speak in Vienna Calendar, Page 8 Photos contributed Photos January 17-23, 2018 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com Local organizers teach methods New Year, New Order for streamlining a space.

By Marilyn Campbell go in a particular place, like on a hook. You have to figure out what works for your fam- ith the holidays now a ily.” memory, local organizers Keep bathrooms in order by adding over- W are getting requests from the-door hooks to hold towels, suggested those with overflowing Todd Martz, Home on Cameron in Alexan- buckets of ambition to create and maintain dria. “This might make the room appear a clutter-free space. smaller, but it [offers] a place to put tow- “One of the first things to learn is that a els,” he said. “Include a decorative bag on few minutes spent on a few tasks each day the door hook for toiletries so they’re out can go a long way in maintaining order,” of the way.” said Jodie Jacobs of SOUPerior Organizing. “Add an ottoman or coffee table with stor- “Decide how important a clean, clutter-free Teaching children age,” continued Martz. “Maximize the space space is to you and follow through on keep- to put away toys at next to a utility or laundry room by adding ing it that way. Prioritize it like other im- the end of the day Photos courtesy of Jodie Jacobs a … shelf to hold blankets.” portant things in your life.” can create a peace- Small tasks such as putting away clothes each day Whether it’s once a week or once a month, One habit that Susan Unger of ClutterSOS ful environment. can lead to a organized space. schedule time to spend on organization teachers her clients to focus on simple projects and record it on a calendar, advises things that can be done easily and fre- day.” more pleasant morning when you’re not Jacobs. “Tie it to something that you already quently. “In general, I recommend keeping Also on her recommended list of daily waking up to clutter sitting around,” said do and select a time that won’t be overrun up with household duties on a daily basis tasks: apparel. “Be sure to put all clothes Unger. by other events, she said. “If you know that so none of them become a bigger project,” away on a daily basis rather than leaving Deal with mail on a daily basis so it every Sunday at nine o’clock, you always said Unger. “For example, don’t leave dishes them on a chair or the floor,” said Unger. doesn’t pile up, advises Unger. “Immediately watch a television show, set aside that time in the sink. Load the dishwasher after ev- “Clean clothes should be hung up or put in recycle or shred the junk mail and put bills, to go through mail, pay bills and respond ery meal and put all cooking and food prep drawers and dirty clothes in the laundry items to file and reading in an appropriate to invitations while you’re watching. That items away so the counters are clear.” basket.” place.” way, your time won’t get bumped for a soc- Establishing a daily routine so that tidy- In fact, Unger tells clients to gather the Whether it’s a small basket by the front cer game or business meeting.” ing becomes second nature is a technique entire family at the end of each day and door or storage boxes placed under a bed, One caveat that Jacobs offers her clients that Unger uses in her own life and teaches spend 10 minutes tidying as a group. “Make one technique for tidiness is having a des- is, “Maintaining a routine doesn’t mean that to her clients. “I always make my bed first a sweep of your house and determine which ignated space for items. “Kids’ homework you won’t slip up at times,” she said. “You thing in the morning,” she said. “Having a items need to be put in their proper place,” should have a landing place like a back- have to hold yourself to realistic standards neat bedroom is a great way to start the she said. “It makes for a less stressful and pack,” said Jacobs. “The backpack should or you’ll get discouraged.” Visit These Houses of Worship FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF VIENNA 450 ORCHARD STREET, NW VIENNA, VA 22180 703-938-8525 email: [email protected] www.fbcv.org

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2 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected]

Photos by Andrea Worker/The Connection Kofi Annan, president of the Fairfax County NAACP, moderates the Town U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) speaks with Dr. Michelle Woody with the Fairfax Hall-style conversation with U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D), in a community County NAACP, the organization that hosted the Town Hall with the room above Giardino Italian Restaurant in West Springfield. senator. Town Hall Told of ‘Chaos-Causing Trump Effect’

and the effects of climate change, LGBT Fairfax County NAACP hosts rights and the status of transgender persons in the military, protection against Town Hall gathering with Kaine. voter suppression, advancing opportunities for minorities at Governors Schools By Andrea Worker was going to be ‘open season for off- in Virginia (a program started in 1973 The Connection shore drilling week’ around the coun- by then-Governor Linwood Holton who try,” Kaine added, saying that this deci- would later become Kaine’s father-in- .S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) spent sion was followed this week by an ex- law), even the possibility of promoting almost two hours with area ception for the state of Florida. “Why programs like Fairfax County’s Diversion Uresidents at a Town Hall-style Florida? Because we listen to Floridians First (aimed at diverting individuals with gathering in West Springfield and the Governor there opposed it. Well, mental health issues to medical care ver- on the evening of Jan. 11, hosted by the so do we in Virginia.” sus the criminal justice system) on the Fairfax County NAACP and moderated by Kaine admitted that the “Trump Ef- national level. the organization’s president, Kofi Annan. fect” was chaos-causing and frustrating Jorel Sabado of Springfield wanted to Annan began: “From the outside, from when there “is so much critical work on know how the senator’s Catholic faith af- our perspective, it looks like no one knows the table, like hurricane emergency re- fected his political actions. “Of course, what’s going on, it’s chaos [on Capitol Hill]. lief and avoiding a government shut- your values inform your decisions,” re- How are things going in your view?” down,” but instead, he says, that work plied Kaine, but added that it was not The junior senator from Virginia since gets side-tracked. “Every week it’s left his job to make everyone follow the rules 2013, Kaine answered that in terms of the hooks, curve balls and surprises.” of his church. “That is not why we are daily workings of the Senate, his response Annan also asked the senator his opin- Yasmeen Durrani and Naila Alan, both elected.” would be mostly unchanged from the last ion of racism in America, including of Herndon, came to the meeting to ask Naila Alam from Herndon, and a mem- few years to this moment. “In our general “Why isn’t the Ku Klux Klan categorized what U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) would do ber of the All Dulles Area Muslim Soci- work, more happens cooperatively than you as a terrorist organization?” about the Trump travel bans. “Keep up ety (ADAMS) worries about the travel think. A lot less happens than should. For “I don’t know,” replied Kaine. “To me, the fight, work with those who oppose bans that have been in and out of effect example, Obama Care. We spent a year it is. I am not sure of the process, but them,” replied the senator. and in the courts since President Trump fighting to protect health care for 32 mil- you know, I now plan to find out.” first introduced them as an Executive lion Americans. Instead of repeal, we should Racism has long been a societal scourge, nities. She attended the session with Order January last year. Kaine vowed to have been working on improve, and we Kaine said, but that it was the election of Sookyung Oh, area director for the National continue to fight against them. weren’t.” Donald Trump and the actions and com- Korean American Service and Education Asked to comment on the election of more But the real change today in Kaine’s view ments made by the Trump administration Consortium (NAKASEC), and Jung Bin Cho, Democrats to the Virginia Legislature, Kaine is “the Trump Effect, not knowing, quite that “gave permission to express those rac- also with NAKASEC. “Will you vote to ap- responded that it gave him a level of en- frankly what new surprise will come along.” ist views” basically with impunity. But he prove the continuing resolution [to fund the ergy and confidence for his own chances in Kaine spoke of the alleged vulgar remarks still sees good that may come from this new government] if there is not a clean DACA Virginia, it bode well for the expansion of made by President Trump earlier in the day attitude of “taking off the mask.” bill before then?” she asked. Medicaid in the state, and that as a mem- about immigrants and some of the coun- “You know who and what you are up Kaine was unwilling to commit to her re- ber of the Senate Health and Education tries from which they came. “I mean, you against. To really deal with a problem you quest. Despite being a “passionate advo- Committee there was a synergy that could hear that and you just don’t know what to have to know its dimensions.” It is Kaine’s cate” for immigrants, he also said “I am an result. say.” belief that the exposure of the depth and anti-shutdown person” and cited the dam- Kaine is seeking re-election in November, breadth to which racism continues to exist age done to the Virginia economy and many and has already made campaign stops “in THIS LATEST CONTROVERSY, accord- will help bring focus to the issue and aid in of its citizens because of the government some areas of our state that are really suf- ing to Kaine, makes the work being done to the fight against it. shutdown in 2013. “I need to see the de- fering,” but said that the Town Hall meet- address the Deferred Action for Childhood The attendees questioned Kaine and the tails of the bills being put forth before I can ing wasn’t about campaigning, but about Arrivals Act (DACA) and immigrants in the topics were wide-ranging. make a decision. I think we are really close.” keeping up a dialogue with all Virginians. country under Temporary Protection Status Nayely Lopez is a field employment spe- “Hearing what the concerns are, and keep- (TPS) that much more difficult. cialist with CASA, an organization that THE QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS ing people informed — that’s practicing “And then we didn’t know that last week works with low-income immigrant commu- kept coming — environmental protections democracy.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 ❖ 3 Opinion Vienna & Oakton

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An independent, locally owned weekly First Week in Richmond newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. By Barbara Favola Commentary an important but low-paying profession. Published by Local Media Connection LLC State Senator (D-31) Children & Families: Kinship Care Bill — My in committee meetings. This long bill (SB 44) provides support payments to rela- 1606 King Street t is always exhilarating and overdue bit of sunshine will enable tives who are willing to offer kin in foster care Alexandria, Virginia 22314 humbling to sit in the Cham- Virginians to see for themselves a permanent home. It passed out of the Rehab Free digital edition delivered to Iber as the President of the how seriously lawmakers are tack- and Social Services Committee but was re- your email box. Go to Senate gavels an unruly ing issues important to them. The ferred to Finance. More than 75 percent of the connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe body of 40 senators into order. On link to view meetings can be found cost of this kingship program, called “Foster- Jan. 10, Lieutenant Governor under the “Members and Session” ing Futures” is born by the Federal Govern- NEWS DEPARTMENT: Ralph Northam did just that. The tab of the ment. I really hope the money committees can [email protected] next day, Lt. Gov. Northam pre- virginiageneralassembly.gov find the $45,000 to start this program. Kemal Kurspahic sided over the Senate for the last time. We website. On a lighter note, my bill to help small busi- Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 wished him well and sent him off to be inau- Education: Option for Four-Year Teaching ness that bake alcohol infused confectionery [email protected] gurated as the 72nd Governor of Virginia. Degree: I am proud to say that my bill SB 76 products obtain an ABC license, so they may to enable prospective teachers to potentially continue to grow their businesses, passed out Donna Manz Contributing Writer gain a teaching degree in four years, rather of committee, as well. [email protected] HIGHLIGHTS OF MY WEEK than five, passed out of the Senate Health & Your emails and support are crucial to the Transparency: Committee votes will now be Education Committee unanimously. This will legislative process. It is an honor to represent Andrea Worker recorded and live-streamed, so Virginians can reduce the opportunity cost of becoming a you and to fight for our values. Reporter [email protected] hear the substantive debates on bills as they teacher, a factor that weighs heavily on pro- work their way through the process. Most bills, spective teachers who have incurred a large The state senator represents parts of Arling- Mike Salmon especially controversial ones, face their defeat school debt, yet they have the desire to enter ton, Fairfax, and Loudoun. Editorial Assistant [email protected]

ADVERTISING: Girls United Madison Commend U.S. Rep. Connolly For advertising information [email protected] 703-778-9431 By Nehal Jan and Madeleine Mai Commentary cosponsors of H.R. 2408, is, “Glad to cospon- sor H.R. 2408, the Protecting Girls’ Access to Don Park Display Advertising very year, James Madison High School ful and prosperous communities. Education in Vulnerable Settings Act, which 703-778-9420 Ebuzzes with excitement of the new This cause is close to our heart because we would authorize the Secretary of State and the [email protected] school year. With junior year fast ap- have always had access to a top quality educa- USAID Administrator to prioritize efforts to proaching, we are excited to dive back into our tion. Education was never a question mark in support access to primary and secondary edu- Debbie Funk National Sales studies, and one of our favorite activities is our life. Our school is filled with advanced cation for displaced children. As the proud fa- 703-778-9444 going back to school shopping. We love choos- placement classes, clean facilities, and amaz- ther of a young woman and a 14-year-veteran [email protected] ing binders and matching notebooks and buy- ing science labs. We have supportive parents of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, I David Griffin ing the latest innovation in the pen world (this and amazing resources at the touch of a but- understand the importance of a safe and well- Marketing Assistant year it’s erasable pens). But it also makes us ton, but these resources aren’t available to ev- rounded education. It is critical to ensure that 703-778-9431 think of the millions of refugee children who eryone around the world. We want to change children, particularly girls, displaced by con- [email protected] are denied an education. Children who won’t that, and we know Congressman Gerry flicts overseas are able to receive a quality edu- have the opportunity to learn basic math or Connolly does too. cation and that the educational needs of Editor & Publisher reading skills. Children who won’t learn linear We are proud of Congressman Connolly for women and girls are considered when devel- Mary Kimm functions or about World War II, even though cosponsoring H.R. 2408, the Protecting Girls’ oping and implementing U.S. foreign assis- [email protected] @MaryKimm many of these kids are living in the world’s big- Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act. tance policies.” gest refugee crisis since World War II. By giving refugee children, especially girls, an Our Girl Up club and many community mem- Executive Vice President Today 65 million people globally are dis- education, we are allowing them to find their bers commend Congressman Connolly’s efforts Jerry Vernon placed from their home, and of these 65 mil- voice in their community. in co-sponsoring this important bipartisan leg- 703-549-0004 [email protected] lion displaced people, 50 percent of them are Girl Up helped us develop a voice and pas- islation. This legislation will help refugee girls under the age of 18. With the average refugee sion for advocating on behalf of underprivi- have a voice and become leaders in their com- Editor in Chief staying in exile for 20 years, many of these leged girls. Developing a voice in a commu- munity. After all, an educated society is a more Steven Mauren Managing Editor refugee children will live out their childhood nity is crucial for advancing in not just school, prosperous and free society. Kemal Kurspahic away from home and school. Globally, the en- but in life. Nehal Jan and Madeleine Mai are the president and Art/Design: rollment rate for primary school is 90 percent, Representative Connolly, one of the many vice president of Girls United Madison club. Laurence Foong, John Heinly, but for refugee children it is 50 percent and Ali Khaligh Letters to the Editor Production Manager: that number drops dramatically with only 22 Geovani Flores percent of refugee children being able to en- process in part to avoid public scrutiny. It com- roll in secondary school. Voting the Party Line plicates the tax code and will no doubt bring a Special Assistant to the Publisher Jeanne Theismann Education makes it easier for people to re- To the Editor: host of unintended consequences. One fore- [email protected] build their lives and communities. It offers psy- The Republican Party celebrated the New seeable consequence is new opportunities for @TheismannMedia chological stability and more economic oppor- Year with the recent passage of their so-called tax cheaters, who will be further emboldened tunities. In particular, refugee girls, are the “tax reform” bill. While some of us may enjoy by the fruit of long-term Republican efforts to CIRCULATION most vulnerable when not educated. These modest and temporary tax cuts, the bill is a diminish IRS enforcement powers. [email protected] girls are more likely to be victims of sexual gift to our nation’s plutocracy whose tax cuts Sadly, District 10’s Representative Barbara assault, be a child bride, fall victim to extrem- are substantial and permanent. All this will Comstock voted for this bill. The excuses she ist ideology, and have less socioeconomic op- come at the cost of an exploding federal defi- offers to justify her vote show once again that portunities. We see when girls are educated cit. The fiscal rectitude preached by the Re- she is just reliably voting the party line regard- they are more likely to have leadership posi- publicans during the Obama years was pushed less of the interests of her constituents or our tions whether it be in politics, business, or tech. aside when it came time to do the bidding of nation. The people of District 10 can only hope Educated women are better able to lift them- the moneyed interests they are beholden to. that 2018 will bring them better representa- selves and their families out of poverty. When The bill was hurriedly written in a slapdash tion in Congress. refugee children, especially girls, have access manner, with no serious analysis of economic Richard Markeloff to education they can start to build more peace- impacts, and rushed through the legislative Herndon

4 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com People ‘Walking-on’ Field of Dreams Herndon native and Oakton High graduate Justin Bartee looks forward to NCAA Division 1 Challenges.

By Ashley Claire Simpson much push back,” Justin’s dad, Ken Bartee, Justin Bartee in his Oakton High days. Photos contributed The Connection said. “He had to keep knocking on many doors, and multiple times. Ultimately, the last high school football game, I was so ex- keep his grades up. He had to comprehend very fall season, some of the most coaches laid out a pretty tough gamut and cited because I thought I didn’t have to that not everything was going to go his way. authentic, untainted American they saw what I’ve seen in him since he was worry anymore. Then, it started all over When all was said and done, I was okay Edreams are played out on a col- a kid. He pushes hard. Once he goes for again.” with him pursuing the game once he un- lege football field. For these thou- something, he really goes. And, watching Before Justin made any commitments, derstood everything he was up against.” sands of players, the wins and losses are him with his teammates, it’s very clear that Ken and Sue made absolutely sure that Jus- What followed was what Justin called a about pride, their team, and long-standing he’s already accepted as part of the team. tin understood the full picture of playing “whirlwind.” – even lifelong – passion for sport. Herndon They see his commitment. As his parents, college football. As a family, they weighed “I was invited to participate in spring native and Oakton High graduate Justin we are really proud of him. He worked hard the pros and cons, laying out all that fac- practice last year,” Justin said. “My time Bartee is one of these NCAA Division I col- to then make it become a reality. He did tors that come with a sport known not just with the team from mid-February until the lege football players currently on the un- this on his own.” for glory, but also for injury. end of April was a tryout period. I did all predictable roller coaster that comes with “We also talked about Justin’s wants for the workouts and went to every practice. playing football at this level. JUSTIN’S JOURNEY to the Belk Bowl is his future,” Ken recalled. “He’s always Then, I was invited to their fall camp from Bartee, who plays Safety for Wake Forest particularly emblematic of the American wanted to be in sports management as a July through August of 2017, until about University, is fresh off the team’s coveted dream for a multitude of reasons. As a career, and the reality is, to achieve that, school started. I spent those couple of Belk Bowl victory last month over the Texas “walk-on,” Bartee had no scholarship lur- it’s invaluable to have played a college sport. months every day doing workouts, and in A&M Aggies. The Demon Deacon victory in ing him toward the blood, sweat, and tears I also know he’s always loved being a part Charlotte, N.C., was both an unusually high- that inevitably come with the grind. Still, of a team. Justin also knew that he had to See ‘Walk-on,’ Page 6 scoring bowl game and a hard-earned win he embraced – and successfully cleared – over the favored Aggies. every hurdle it took to get him to where he “Last year, I was actually at the Military is today. Bowl [in which Wake Forest beat Temple As supportive as his parents are of Justin’s University’s team] as a spectator; I was just undertaking, the idea of their youngest son a student fan,” Bartee recalled. “It was so playing a notoriously rough sport caused exciting. This year, though, being on the them more than passing hesitation. other side was absolutely amazing. It was a Step one: convincing mom that trying out dream; an out-of-body experience that I was a good idea. never expected to be in. Being on Wake’s “My initial reaction was, ‘No way,’” football team, and getting to the Belk Bowl Justin’s mom, Sue Bartee, said. “After his with a team and coaching staff I respect so much, has been an incredible experience and defi- nitely something I’ll remember forever.” It wasn’t until the winter of 2016 – a time when Bartee, a 2016 graduate and football team alum of Oakton High School, already had a semester of college under his belt – that he no longer ignore the swirling thoughts in his mind about playing college ball. “I didn’t really feel like I was involved in very much,” Bartee said. “I talked to my dad about trying to play for the team that following January, after I’d given it some serious thought. Then, I started emailing coaches. Finally, I got a meeting with Wake Forest’s head coach, Dave Clawson.” It may seem simple, but set- ting up that initial meeting was a quest in itself for Bartee. “We all knew from the start that it was an audacious goal Sports have always been a big part of Justin and one which came with Bartee’s life. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 ❖ 5 People ‘Walk-on’

From Page 5 people want to go into the NFL after their time playing with meetings with the team and Wake,” Justin said. “While most coaches, strategizing and planning do, I don’t. I know I won’t play pro – you name it – all day.” ball, and that’s okay with me. I As he has learned over the last love to play football. If I have the year, “walk-on” is a bit of a misno- opportunity to do so right now, I’m mer. going to.” “Camp was technically my ‘try out,’” Justin explained. “Some SPORTS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN schools do more traditional try- a big part of Justin’s life. That outs, but, since Wake Forest is such comes with the territory of being a small school, it’s a process that one of two athletic boys, and your begins with that invitation. It was built-in athletic rival being five tough, but I loved it, and I got years older. Justin always showed through it. I got a spot on the ros- signs of being a natural competi- ter. I was the only one that season tor even when he wasn’t rough- who had a spring try out, too.” housing big brother Zack. Out of the roughly 110 members First and foremost a student at of the team, less than 20 percent a prestigious university, Justin are walk-ons. And, at Wake For- seeks those challenges in the est, it takes more than athletic classroom, too. He understands prowess to become one. the value of his education, and “Coach Clawson made sure I how it will help him continue to was a good student, that I worked go after lofty goals for the rest of hard, and that I never had any his life. kind of drug issues,” Justin said. “I love sports, but I also never “They like kids who are going to identified myself or found my self- respect the program and keep it worth exclusively within an ath- on track.” letic realm,” Justin said. “Statistics Justin spent the entire 2017 sea- always clicked with me, even in son playing his part in preparing high school. It’s actually my mi- the starting lineup for absolutely nor right now. I also always en- every game of what resulted in an joyed my history classes. I really overall winning season. enjoyed a religion class I took re- “As a Safety, I play more of an cently. It was about all about the intellectual position for the de- history of Hinduism and its tradi- fense,” he said. “My coach likes tions.” having me around because I chal- Speaking of traditions, Justin lenge people.” has become a part of a major While Justin, whose jersey dons American institution. As interest- the number 40, has not yet played ing as he’s found his college during any of the big games, it’s courses, he said he’s also learned impossible to overlook his role. so much as a member of Wake You can count on his persistent Forest’s bowl-winning football professionalism, taking his posi- team. tion and his time on the field. “A&M is a power house school,” “I still practiced every day as he said. “It was cool to be able to part of the scout team,” Justin ex- play a team like that. Our coach plained. “My job is to emulate the told us from the beginning, ‘This other team’s defense. For example, is a big game. This means a lot. leading up to the Belk Bowl, we This is an SEC team that thinks knew we had to prepare to go up they are better than you.’” against an All-American Safety. I And Justin, who prepped to play spent a whole week wearing his if he had been needed in a pinch, number and a different-colored felt the stress of the game even jersey to represent him for the rest from the sidelines. of my team who would be facing “Games like that drag because him on the field come game time.” you’re so nervous that you keep After a successful ride with looking at the clock every minute,” team, the future looks bright for Justin said, “especially once you the fresh-faced college Safety. Hav- have the lead.” ing wrapped up his season as a Now that the Belk Bowl is over redshirt freshman, Justin still has and Wake Forest is in the midst of three more years of eligibility. Of its official winter break, Justin has course, Justin envisions that his given more thought to some of his future seasons with the Demon non-football-related goals, too. Deacons will involve salient moves “The goal is to go to the busi- in season-defining games. Still, he ness school,” he said. “It would be will always relish his first season cool to be working in sports some- on the team for exactly what it has how, but it’s such a difficult field been. to get into. As I’ve learned over this “Sometimes, Coach Clawson last year, you really never know will ask the entire team how many what can happen. We will see.”

6 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin Seasons Board Gratings Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at By KENNETH B. LOURIE least two weeks before event. As a baby-boomer, I’ve transitioned from black and white television to color to “H.D” - KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION and of course now to “Smart Television;” and within that evolution, so too has the variety, Child turning 5 years old by Sept.30? If so, content and number of channels– and the contact your child’s school to make “demand” that we consumers can make – arrangements for kindergarten enrollment. Most schools begin getting information together now from home, transitioned as well. And I don’t for parents of incoming kindergartners, and suppose much of it could have happened many host an orientation or open house. All without advertising and the revenue it has kindergarten programs are full-day and located generated. Promoted by people, places and in FCPS elementary schools. Check your school’s things. From sports heroes to celebrities to webpage or contact the school directly for news makers to cartoon characters to puppets specific enrollment information and dates of and on to anthropomorphic agents/avatars orientationor visit www.fcps.edu/registration/ and other creative mouthpieces. kindergarten-registration. I grew up watching television – without a FY 2019 SCHOOLS BUDGET remote, not listening to the radio. I remember seeing “Mr. Clean,” “The Jolly Green Giant,” FCPS Superintendent Scott S. Brabrand will present “Mr. Magoo,” “Speedy” – from Alka Seltzer – the 2018-19 school year (FY 2019) Proposed Budget at the School Board among other iconic creatures of the creative, meeting on Thursday, Jan. 11, at Jackson all of whom sent so many messages to so Middle School at 7 p.m. The School Board plans many consumers, ripe for the plucking. A to hold a budget work session on Jan. 22, and a brand new medium had arrived: television, public hearing on the Proposed Budget on Jan. and its audience was extra large and extra 29, with additional hearings on Jan. 30 and Jan. eager. 31, if needed. Get more information on the And even though these spokes-things were FCPS budget at www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/ not exactly speaking from the heart (what budget/fy2019. heart?), they were speaking/symbolizing with GOVERNING BOARD CANDIDATES conviction – and repetition. The impressions made on impressionable future consumers The McLean Community Center (MCC) is were incalculable. It launched a generation. seeking candidates to run for seats on its 2018- 2019 Governing Board. A candidate must reside Not the “Greatest Generation,” mind you, but in the Center’s tax district (Small District 1A- a generation nonetheless, prepped and ready Dranesville). Three adult positions and two to make its mark: in the drug store, the con- youth positions are open this year. Key Election venience store, the supermarket, the box store Dates: and now the on-line store. We are not merely ❖ Monday, Jan. 22: Petition Packets are available. what we buy, we are what and how we are ❖ Friday, March 16: Completed Petition Packets are advertised to. due at MCC by 5 p.m. Previously I had written a column about ❖ Monday, March 19: Candidates’ Orientation, 7 how I loathe the computer-generated charac- p.m., The Old Firehouse Center, 1440 Chain ters which have been utilized on television in Bridge Rd. ❖ an attempt to capture consumers’ interest. As Monday, April 9: Absentee Voting begins at the soon as they appear on television, I switch MCC Administrative Office, 6631 Old Dominion Dr., and The Old Firehouse Center, 1440 Chain rather than fight. For me, it’s an immediate Bridge Road. turn off, literally and figuratively. I am not lis- ❖ Sunday, May 6: Candidates Meet and Greet, 2-4 tening to inanimate objects/creations tell an p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of MCC, at the “animate” (yours truly) object what to do. And Old Firehouse Center, 1440 Chain Bridge Road. though I understand the humanity behind the ❖ Wednesday, May 16: Absentee Voting ends at the message, as far as I’m concerned, the delivery MCC Administrative Office and the Old system does not compute (an old-fashioned Firehouse Center at 5 p.m. usage). Artificial spokes-things are not worth ❖ Saturday, May 19: Elections at McLean Day from the computer screens they’re drawn on. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. What has brought this rant on is a new ele- Call the Center at 703-790-0123, TTY: 711, or visit ment in the artificially-intelligent world in the Center’s website: http://bit.ly/2ix7qc1. which many of us are subjected: holiday greetings from a computer. Mass emails sent by manufacturers from whom as a consumer WEDNESDAY/JAN. 17 we’ve emailed, inquired, bought, sold, etc., Public Meeting. 7 p.m. in Room 106 of the wishing me a “happy, healthy, prosperous Herrity Building located at 12055 Government holiday/New Year,” yada, yada, yada; Center Parkway, Fairfax. The Fairfax County click/delete. As fast as I can. Are you kidding Park Authority will hold its annual public me? It’s not bad enough that as consumers we comment meeting on the agency’s proposed fee are regularly watching/listening to fake spokes- adjustments. The public meeting agenda things on television, I am now being directly includes a brief presentation on the fee process interacted with through my personal emails followed by an opportunity for public comment. too. No. That’s where I draw the Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/feemeeting line/terminate my attention span. for more. However well-conceived, I am not getting THURSDAY/JAN. 18 involved with what is in effect, a thing. Pre- Economic Conference. 7:30-11:30 a.m. at at the programmed messages of this kind are the Fairview Park Marriott 3111 Fairview Park unkindest cut of all; “Et tu, Brute?” If you/your Drive, Falls Church. The Northern Virginia company can only treat me like a number – Chamber of Commerce will host the 26th and not as a person, don’t treat me at all. Annual Economic Conference — One Region, Don’t think for a nanosecond that a holiday One Future: Accelerating Economic Growth, missive to a massive holiday audience carries TOGETHER. $100 for Northern Virginia any substantial weight. It doesn’t. It provides Chamber members and $125 for non-members. the exact opposite: a greater wait until I Visit www.novachamber.org for more. respond. It’s akin to be weightless in outer Caregivers Support Group. 10-11:30 a.m. at space. It’s for bemusement. It serves no func- UUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregation of tional purpose. And though I can certainly Fairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. For caregivers to adult family appreciate how getting into thousands/millions members with dementia, meets first and third of personal email accounts with one keystroke Thursdays of every month. Call 703-821-6838 of has an appeal, you risk squandering a previ- email [email protected] for more. ously hard-earned resource: goodwill. You want me as a customer? Don’t email JAN. 18-MARCH 15 me feelings. Email me facts and figures. You Winter Classes. The Shepherd’s Center of really want me as a customer? Then speak to Oakton-Vienna continues its Adventures in me, really. Save your greetings; and not for Learning (AIL) line up of classes with their next year either. Winter 2018 semester schedule. Students may attend one or all of the classes for one $45 fee Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for and are encouraged to create their own The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 ❖ 7 Calendar ‘A Nun on the Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- Bus’ Author to endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged. Speak in Vienna ONGOING The 2018 Eclectic Essentials The American Association of production features four plays that University Women (AAUW) and focus on relationships: For Whom the Patrick Henry Library are co- Southern Belle Tolls, Death Be Not Loud, Capsmittment and One Click sponsoring a free presentation Away. Eclectic Essentials: by Sister Simone Campbell on Relationships will be performed at 8 Saturday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m. at p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 19- 20, 26-27, Feb. 2-3, as well as at 2 Vienna Community Center. Sis- p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 28, and 2 p.m. ter Simone is a nationally rec- on Sunday, Feb. 4. Tickets are ognized social justice activist general admission and available for $14 at the Vienna Community and the author of A Nun on the Center, online at viennava.gov/ Bus. The meeting will focus on webtrac, or at the door, if still economic justice, immigration available. Visit viennatheatrecompany.org or e-mail issues, healthcare reform and bers examine and take positions [email protected] for more voter turnout. on the fundamental issues of information. AAUW is the nation’s leading the day — educational, social, Friday Night Telescopes. The Roll- Top observatory is available to the voice promoting equity and economic, and political. public for viewing the skies on Friday education for women and girls. For more information, visit nights: Jan. 19 and 26, 7:30-9:30 Founded in 1881, AAUW mem- vienna-va.aauw.net. p.m. The Analemma Society holds Friday Night Public Viewing Sessions at Turner Farm on Springvale Road in Great Falls. There is a lot to see in 8185 or visit www.fxgs.org for more. the night sky. Events are weather FRIDAY/JAN. 19 Artists Reception. 4-6 p.m. at Vienna dependent. Please check the Improv-Extravaganza. 7 p.m. at Art Center, 115 Pleasant St., NW. Analemma tweet page for updates on Herndon ArtSpace, 750 Center St., Jazz It Up! Exhibit open until March Friday viewing if the weather looks Herndon. For one-night-only, The 3. Free and open to the public. Call questionable. Visit Alden’s (the) Unruly Theatre Project 703-319-3971 or visit www.analemma.org. and Loudoun County High School’s www.ViennaArtsSociety.org for Great Falls Farmers Market. Improvasaurus will bring their more. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 778 Walker signature improv styles to ArtSpace “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Road, Great Falls. Music, vendors, Herndon. Visit Burgundy.” 8 p.m. at The Old fresh produce, fresh prepared food, www.artspaceherndon.org. Firehouse, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, delightful bakery, spices from around McLean. This 2004 comedy film the world, wild-caught fish, grass- starring Will Ferrell is a tongue-in- fed, free-range meats, organic-fed THURSDAY/JAN. 25 cheek take on the culture of the poultry and eggs. Email Genealogy Meeting/Program. 7:30- 1970s, particularly the new “action [email protected] 9 p.m. at Kilmer Middle School, 8100 news” format. Admission and for more. Wolftrap Road, Vienna. Fairfax popcorn are free. Prop bags are $5 Free Tai Chi. Every Saturday, from Genealogical Society monthly each. Visit www.mcleancenter.org or 7:55-9 a.m., Introduction and member meeting and program. for Old Firehouse activities, call 703- Beginners’ Practice, meet on the Librarian Leslie Anderson will discuss 448-8336. outdoor basketball court located the Alexandria Library’s resources directly behind the Dolley Madison and help available to family history Public Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Ave. and other researchers. Open to SUNDAY/JAN. 28 in McLean Central Park, McLean. Call members and public. Snow date, Feb. 7th Annual McLean Chocolate 703-759-9141 or visit 1. Free. Email [email protected], Festival. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at at www.FreeTaiChi.org for more. call 703-644-8185 or visit McLean High School, 1633 Davidson The Freeman Store & Museum www.fxgs.org for more. Road, McLean. Taste the specialties Wednesday through Sunday noon-4 The Unruly Theatre. 7 p.m. at of 17 area chocolatiers and the p.m. 131 Church St. NE, Vienna. The MPA@ChainBridge, 1446 Chain Children’s Game Room features the Freeman Store & Museum is Bridge Road, McLean. The area’s bluegrass music of local artist Mike dedicated to Preserving and hottest professional teen improv Mitchell, popular with all ages at last promoting Vienna’s heritage through troupe will bring you a hilarious year’s festival. Admission is $2. Visit the identification, preservation, and night of comedy. Come help them twww.mcleanchocolatefestival.com interpretation of history significant spread some joy while being wildly for more. places, events, and persons. entertained. Sponsored by The Alden. “Best Worst Thing That Ever Historicviennainc.org Free admission. Visit Could Have Happened.” 2 p.m. Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. Flame mcleancenter.org. at The Old Firehouse, 1440 Chain Room, Vienna Volunteer Fire Bridge Road, McLean. “Best Worst Department, 400 Center St. S, Thing That Ever Could Have Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/ FRIDAY/JAN. 26 Happened” tells the story of “Merrily bingo.html. Splitsville & Paragon Village. 8 We Roll Along,” the Stephen Colvin Run Mill open 11 - 4 p.m. a.m.-6 p.m. at The Old Firehouse, Sondheim/Hal Prince musical that daily, closed Tuesday. 10017 Colvin 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. opened to enormous fanfare and Run Road, Great Falls. Fairfax The Old Firehouse teacher workday closed after just 16 performances. County’s operational 19th century trip. Teens can experience glow-in- Directed by one of the musical’s water powered gristmill, offers the-dark bowling with big screen original cast members, it features recreational and educational video walls and a booming surround interviews with the creators and activities for all ages through daily sound system that plays their favorite original cast. Free admission. Visit tours, school programs and special songs. Following bowling, the group www.mcleancenter.org or call 703- events. Fees: $7/adult, $6 students will unwind with a movie. $65/$55 448-8336. 16+ with ID, $5 children & seniors. MCC district residents. Fee includes Admission to park is free except for bowling, shoes, lunch and movie some special events. tickets. Bring additional money for MONDAY/JAN. 29 987-1712, email movie concessions as desired. Visit Teacher Workday Trip: Skiing & [email protected], or mcleancenter.org. Snowboarding. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. visit www.travelingplayers.org. leaving from The Old Firehouse, The Arts of Great Falls School 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. offers winter classes for adults and SATURDAY/JAN. 27 Let’s hit the slopes! Ski/snowboard children of all skill levels. Visit Genealogy Education Session. 10 rental, lift ticket and charter bus www.greatfallsart.org for more. a.m.-1 p.m. at Dunn Loring Volunteer transportation are included in the Fire Station, 2149 Gallows Road, fee. Participants should dress Vienna. Librarian Leslie Anderson appropriately for the weather, WEDNESDAY/JAN. 17 presents “Private Live, Public including warm coat, gloves, hat, Art Workshop. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Records, and the ‘Free Negro’ pants and waterproof clothing. Vienna Arts Center, 115 Pleasant St. Dilemma in Virginia—a discussion of Goggles highly recommended. Artist Jacqueline Saunders is hosting the history and records available on Helmets are available upon request. a one day workshop. Call 703-319- the US Colored Cavalry, as well as on $140/$120 MCC district residents. 3971 or visit the Free Black community in Visit www.mcleancenter.org or for www.ViennaArtsSociety.org for Virginia. Snow date, Feb 3. Email Old Firehouse activities, call 703- more. [email protected], call 703-644- 448-8336.

8 ❖ Vienna/Oakton Connection ❖ January 17-23, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com