Senior Living Page 9

A new maple tree is planted at the Old Forestville School- house where the two white oaks previously stood.

Planting for

Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Classifieds, What Are The Future You Grateful for in 2020? News, Page 8

Viewpoints, Page 4

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U.S. Postage U.S. News, Page 3 STD PRSRT Photo contributed Photo November 25 - December 1, 2020 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com 2 v Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Express Lanes May Link to American Legion Memorial Bridge

By Mike Salmon Accord to create a new, unified Capital Beltway, The Connection replace the aging American Legion Bridge and re- lieve congestion at one of the country’s worst traffic ust when it seemed like the interstate net- chokepoints, according to the VDOT website. work in Northern Virginia was completely In the road building process, the plans are pre- outfitted with the toll lane options, trans- sented to the public and meetings are held to gather Jportation officials have etched out anoth- feedback. One such meeting was recently held on er project to stretch the 495 Express Lanes to the Nov. 18, via a VDOT live feed, and it was attended American Legion Memorial Bridge on the northern by VDOT engineers, elected officials and residents side of the Capital Beltway. of the McLean area. VDOT laid out the data from The proposed project, they are calling “495 the traffic studies to support the need for the lane NEXT,” includes extending the 495 Express Lanes extension, and the sound wall improvements to ac- by approximately three miles from the I-495 and company it. Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) Dulles Toll Road interchange to the George Wash- wondered why there weren’t more sound walls at ington Memorial Parkway in the vicinity of the the George Washington Parkway, and was told the American Legion Bridge. It is a joint project from National Park Service was against it. “Just because the Virginia Department of Transportation and the they don’t want it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t build Department of Rail and Public Transportation. it,” Foust said. In that corridor, plans include replacing existing Another element they looked at was the pos- bridges, adding bike and pedestrian trails, replac- sibility of a transit option to Tysons Corner, with ing existing noise walls and construct new walls the Fairfax County Department of Transportation where needed and installing stormwater manage- advocating for that option. “The county is strong- ment facilities. By doing this, it will reduce conges- ly supporting a transit option,” said director Tom tion, VDOT says, provide additional travel choices Biesiadny. and improve reliability. Currently, a motorist on the existing 495 Express Lanes heading north- THE OPPOSITION spoke out too. One commenter bound hits the end of the express lanes just north claimed the website was not up to date, had the of the Dulles Toll Road, and has to merge back into wrong maps, and the studies were “just empty traffic, and it can be problematic. This extension is words,” she claimed. Another person, “Debbie But- designed to eliminate that. ler,” wanted to know what Maryland’s plans were to connect the lanes. INTERCHANGES at Old Dominion Drive, George- At the end of the meeting, the VDOT project town Pike, Live Oak Drive and the George Wash- manager Michelle Holland promised to follow up ington Memorial Parkway will be rebuilt as part of on all items that were discussed during the online it. Maryland is looking into implementing express meeting. lanes, and these are proposed to include the Amer- Right now the timeframe for the project is loose- ican Legion Bridge which could link to the 495 Ex- ly established, with the construction starting in Map by the Virginia Department of Transportation press Lanes with this extension. In November 2019, 2021 and the project being completed in 2024. For The “495 NEXT” project limits. Governor Ralph Northam (D-VA) and Governor more information, go to http://495northernexten- Larry Hogan (R-MD) signed the Capital Beltway sion.org Great Falls Resident Wins a Nationally-prestigious Mitchell Scholarship

reat Falls resident and Har- largest open organization on campus, set- their educational priorities and justice vard University graduate Kiran ting and executing policy for a 24/7 com- initiatives. His father is an Iraq War vet- GHampton was awarded a na- mercial radio station with a large share of eran and Kiran wrote “The last four gen- tionally-prestigious George J. Mitchell the Boston market. Hampton and his team erations of my family joined the army Scholarship. He will spend the 2021- grew WHRB administratively and financial- and … were both victims and agents of 2022 academic year studying at Queen’s ly while significantly increasing its mem- the white American imperial will.” His University Belfast in Northern Ireland. bership and improving the quality of its academic interest is in administrative Hampton was selected from a national broadcasting. Hampton is proficient in Ara- and economic institutions, “in particu- applicant pool of 453, the most ever in bic, was a Harvard Crimson Editorial Board lar, in the sliding schema of regulation, the program’s history. His bio is pasted Editor, and tutored students for the citizen- by which private organizations and the below (with link to his photo) for easy ship exam. He interned for the Democratic state enforce economic and social rules reference. Caucus of the House of Representatives and with maniacal harshness against the Hampton recently graduated from was a ghostwriter/speechwriter for a Dem- poor and flexible permissiveness against Harvard with High Honors in History ocratic candidate for Fairfax County Com- the powerful.” Hampton has been ad- and Literature. As the President of Har- monwealth’s Attorney. At present he works Courtesy photo mitted to Harvard Law. He will study vard Radio Broadcasting, he ran the with the Fairfax County NAACP, supporting Kiran Hampton Economics at Queen’s University Belfast. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 v 3 Opinion Great Falls

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

An independent, locally owned weekly What are you grateful for on Thanksgiving 2020? newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. By Mercia Hobson/The Connection Published by Jeff McKay, Chairman, Fairfax County Local Media Connection LLC Board of Supervisors “In 2020 I’m grateful for the residents of 1606 King Street Fairfax County, who have shown so much Even in these difficult times, Alexandria, Virginia 22314 compassion and empathy during these with the pandemic, unemploy- Free digital edition delivered to difficult times. We are lucky to live in Fairfax ment, and all the economic challenges, we still have a lot to your email box. Go to County and part of that is because of the connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe people who live here. A lot has changed be thankful for. First and fore- since I first took office at the beginning of most, I am thankful for a loving year, but care for the community wasn’t and supportive wife, daughter, NEWS DEPARTMENT: one of those changes. Residents stepped circle of family and friends. I am [email protected] thankful for a truly caring commu- up to support their neighbors and so many Kemal Kurspahic volunteered their time this year. 2020 has been challenging, but I have nity; whose members work hard Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 so much hope for the future.” to do their part in maintaining our [email protected] special village of Great Falls. I am Photo contributed Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) thankful for all of the front liners, Mercia Hobson ”In a year when all aspects of our lives Mike Kearney of Great Falls who bravely put themselves at risk Community Reporter have been turned upside down by an invisi- to keep the rest of us safe, cared [email protected] ble virus, I count my blessings. for and fed. I am thankful for the educators who are tirelessly and Ken Moore I am thankful to be working with my creatively finding ways to teach our children amidst enormous challeng- Contributing Writer outstanding colleagues on the Board, some es. I am thankful for all the support community members have given to [email protected] of whom barely had time to settle in, as we my business and community endeavors over the last 40 years and the lead the County through a pandemic with staff and volunteers that I have had the privilege of working with. I am ADVERTISING: serious public health and economic conse- thankful for God keeping an eye on me and my family. He has thrown For advertising information quences. me a few curveballs over the last two years but has given me the priv- [email protected] I am grateful to our health care providers, ilege to stay in the game! I would like to finish with this: We have to 703-778-9431 our non-profit and faith-based partners, remain strong, with a can-do attitude, like the little train engine pulling and our amazing County staff who stepped up to meet the challenges all the train cars up the mountain saying, “I think I can, I think I can, I Salome Howard-Gaibler Display Advertising caused by COVID-19. I especially appreciate our police, fire fighters, think I can,” until finally the train reaches the top with a sigh of relief. 703-415-5394 mental health therapists, and all those County employees who risk their We may yet be in for a crazy ride down the other side of the mountain, [email protected] own health by providing services directly to our residents. but holding tight together, I know we can make it. It takes a village and I celebrate the re-elections of my friends Congresswoman Jennifer that’s what we have! Debbie Funk Wexton and Senator Mark Warner and the election of President-elect Happy Thanksgiving Everyone. Display Advertising/National Sales Joe Biden. 703-778-9444 [email protected] Finally, I am most grateful for my good health and that of my family and friends, and for the birth of my first grandchild, Jackson Willig David Griffin Foust.” I am grateful for the privilege to serve Marketing Assistant and do good for Fairfax and for the trust 703-778-9431 of our community. I am grateful for fam- [email protected] ily and love that are too often taken for Classified & Employment granted, for health and sustenance that Advertising God provides without due praise, and for 703-778-9431 the chance to try again with every new day. Abrar Omeish, Fairfax County School Board Member-at-Large Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm Photo by FCPS [email protected] @MaryKimm Photo by Mercia Hobson I’m grateful for the extra time Executive Vice President with my children and fami- It might look and feel a bit different this Jerry Vernon year, but the spirit of Thanksgiving that 703-549-0004 ly.- Erin White of Great Falls, [email protected] a government employee with brings us all together remains the same. daughter Reagan,3 I am thankful for my partner’s love and Managing Editor support, and inspired by the continued Kemal Kurspahic perseverance of our students, parents, Art/Design: teachers, and staff. - Karl Frisch, Fairfax Laurence Foong, John Heinly, County School Board Member Providence Ali Khaligh Production Manager: District Geovani Flores Photo contributed CIRCULATION [email protected] Photo by Mercia Hobson Every year, I am grateful for the love of Definitely that we’ve stayed my family, for the support of my friends, healthy...We’ve been healthy and and for my health. This year I am espe- happy at home, so yes, we’ve cially thankful for my community. The survived, even throughout the Town of Vienna has given me the oppor- whole pandemic, my parents Photo contributed tunity to serve them as mayor, and they too. They live in Philadelphia. I am thankful for our customers have come together to show kindness We’ve seen them occasionally.- and their continued support, to each other like never before. Happy Lauren Vogel, of Great Falls, and the community spirit they Thanksgiving! #OneVienna - Linda Jane works at home for Arcada in bring.- Elaine Shadid, Manager Colbert, Mayor of the Town of Vienna Arlington. She is pictured with of the Great Falls Community Photo contributed son William, 3. Farmers Market See Viewpoints, Page 11 4 v Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com M & M Realty Team Presents 9421 Cornwell Farm, Great Falls

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 v 5 News

Photos by Susan Laume/The Connection

Meadowlark Gardens displays a sea of lights and colors to highlight elements of the natural world and brighten the NOVA Parks helps visitors leap into the holiday season. holiday season with colorful light displays. Area Light Shows Brighten the Holidays

By Susan Laume jumped to about 75,000 walkers in 2019, The Connection who watched, among other displays, illumi- nated bees fly from their lighted hive, frogs his season NOVA Parks offers an leap, and bunnies hop. The newest show, opportunity to literally “bright- Cameron Run’s Ice & Lights, which opened en’”spirits with three holiday in 2019, “transforms the Great Waves Water- Tshows. As a more somber country park into a holiday wonderland”, says NOVA examines holiday traditions this year with Parks, Operations Superintendent, Blythe an eye toward finding safe accommodations, Russian, who worked with other staff mem- spectacular shows with hundreds of lights bers to create the Meadowlark and newer and light sculptures await viewing now ice shows. . at: Festival of Lights, Bull Run Park; Ice & Holiday light shows are almost as old as Lights, Cameron Run Park; and Winter Walk light bulbs themselves. Three years follow- of Lights, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. ing Thomas Edison’s first public demon- The scale of the light shows has not di- stration of the incandescent light bulb, in minished, but goes on with added safety 1882 his associate Edward H. Johnson was protocols, in what has become a delightful dubbed the “Father of Christmas tree lights” area entertainment custom. The number of after decorating his tree with 80 walnut available tickets at Cameron Run and Mead- sized bulbs. By early in the 20th century, owlark were scaled back to meet the latest the availability of inexpensive electric power State restrictions on entertainment gather- made it possible for the average person to ings; to reduce crowd size to one third ca- decorate with electric lights instead of can- pacity. Added protocols include: timed tick- dles. The first public electric light Christmas et entry, six foot social distancing, required holiday display is recognized as Christmas masks, increased facility sanitation, and Tree Lane, a .7 mile display of lighted ce- staff symptom and temperature checks. The dar trees along Santa Rosa Ave in Altadena, drive-thru show at Bull Run is largely unaf- Calif. The Altadena tradition started in 1920 fected by the facility safety restrictions since has continued every year after that, except participants remain in their vehicle. during WWII. Bull Run Festival of Lights first opened Since the 1960s, people have been out- over twenty years ago. Its 2.5 miles include lining private homes with lights. It became approximately a million lights and a large a family entertainment to drive around be- number of holiday displays. Remaining tween 8 and 10 p.m. to view the lights each popular over the years, the show attracted season. 48,000 cars for the drive through event last The NOVA Park shows cater to the public’s year. A newer tradition, begun in 2012, appetite to view ever larger holiday light dis- the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens’ Win- plays. ter Walk of Lights show features unique All tickets for he NOVA Park shows nature themed displays over .6 miles of must be purchased online (no walk-ins) walking trails, created with over half a mil- at nova parks.com. for shows running un- lion lights. Its first year visitation of 36,00 til Jan. 3, 2021. 6 v Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin

Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before the event.

NOW THRU DEC. 9 that clearly communicate a fully-conceptual- Light Up McLean Holiday Decorating Contest. ized theme. Registration is free; the competition is limited Questions? Contact Andrew Carter at andrew. to the first 15 registered households. The Old [email protected] or call the Old Fire- Firehouse is holding a new competition for house at 703-448-8336, TTY: 711. tax district residents. This is your opportu- nity to show off your home in all its holiday NOW THRU NOV. 30 splendor. Think your holiday decorations are Great Falls Virtual Studio Tour. Online. 100s of the best? Enter the competition and prove it. Pieces of Original Art. Featuring 2-plus Studio The judging period begins Sunday, Dec. 20 Shops. Featuring Paintings, Photography, and ends Sunday, Jan. 3. Your neighbors will Furniture, Pottery, Fiber, Jewelry, Gifts, Mixed vote for the top two winners in the following Media and More. You’ll be able to pick up categories: your purchases in the Great Falls Village Cen- Best Overall: Exceptionally attractive, unique and tre ... among other options. Things are a little complete design with that utilizes space and different this year. Instead of the self-guided resources well. physical tour visits throughout Great Falls, Most Creative/Original: Exceptional use of guests can venture into artists’ creative spaces creative ideas and lots of originality evident without climbing into their cars. Visit www. in design. greatfallsstudios.com. Best Holiday Theme: Eye-catching decorations

Great Falls Senior Center Announces Upcoming Zoom Events Great Falls Senior Center (GFSC) has trait Gallery. announced monthly events scheduled for No Great Decisions event is scheduled December through February inviting the for December but there will be a January members to Zoom sessions until they can program – details to follow. see each other in person. Information and details for each event v Dec. 8 – Madrigal Singers – Holiday will be sent by email in time for members Selections; to register and receive a link to the event. v Jan. 19 – Mary Ann Jung Presents If you need help and would like to learn Amelia Earhart; how to Zoom to monthly events contact v Feb. 16 – Our Very Own Betsy Knabb MaryJo Fox at [email protected] or will guide us around The National Por- by phone 571-236-9664

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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 v November 25 - December 1, 2020 v 7 News Planting for the Future GFCA works with Fairfax County Park Authority for new trees.

By Mercia Hobson ation worked with the Park Au- The Connection thority to identify the need for the trees, find the right locations, call he new maple and white 811 to mark underground utilities, oak are not the same. receive permission and then the They will never replace Association purchased the trees. Tthe bold, imposing white It was a little over two weeks after oaks that recently toppled at the remnants of Hurricane Zeta brought Old Forestville Schoolhouse located heavy rains and strong winds to the on Fairfax County property adja- region on Friday, Oct. 29, leaving cent to the Great Falls Grange. But the soil saturated. The first tree top- members of the Great Falls Citizens pled early that morning. The second Wood chips indicate approximately where the two Association wanted to make a dif- tree without warning crashed two white oaks previously stood. Photo contributed ference for future generations. Now days later on Monday, Nov. 2. It’s Photos by Mercia Hobson/The Connection the new maple graces the area in massive trunk and branches blocked After an ancient white oak tree crashed to the front of the Schoolhouse. The white Innsbruck Avenue. Later, it was de- ground during and after remnants of Hurricane oak is planted at the Grange Park termined to be over 200 years old, Zeta pelted the area with high winds and drench- playground, waiting to shade Great according to Canis. There was no ing rains, employees at Rossen Landscape in Falls children not yet born. visible inner damage to its trunk or Great Falls plant a maple tree at the Old Forest- On Wednesday, Nov. 18, employ- base. Saturated soil may have con- ville Schoolhouse. ees at Rossen Landscape planted tributed to either or both trees fall- the two trees on the property. Bill ing, but at this time, the Association Canis who is President of the Great is still checking into the matter. Falls Citizens Association said, The Association also worked and One of the two white oaks “Great Falls Citizens Association funded expenses for a third tree, a that crashed following heavy has an ongoing partnership with white oak to be planted on Fairfax reins in early November Fairfax County Park Authority to County property at Turner Farm remains partially cut and left provide new trees in local parks.” House, home to resident curator beside Innsbruck Avenue as According to Canis, the Associ- Sarah Kirk and her family. of Saturday, Nov. 21.

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8 v Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Senior Living See why millions trust Seniors and us for Home & Auto. the Flu Kyle Knight Ins Agcy Inc I’m here to help life go right, by saving you Kyle Knight, Agent time and money when you combine your 11736 Bowman Green Drive home and auto insurance. Getting vaccinated can Reston, VA 20190 CALL ME TODAY. ACROSS FROM RESTON TOWN CTR. reduce hospital visits and Connection File Photo WWW.KYLEKNIGHT.ORG 703-435-2300

admissions during pecially important this year,” said Dr. Travis Gayles, State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Montgomery County health officer. “[It] can also save State Farm Fire and Casualty Company Bloomington, IL anticipated shortage due health care resources for the care of patients with COVID-19.” to COVID-19. Those over 65 are especially likely to get danger- ously ill from catching the flu. “The flu viruses and By Marilyn Campbell the virus that causes COVID-19 are both spreading The Connection disease this flu season,” said Shauna Severo, Director of Fairfax County Health Services. “As the incidence of hile shopping for dinner on a recent COVID-19 increases the healthcare system could be Wednesday afternoon, Roger White- overwhelmed treating both patients with the flu and head spotted a sign near the pharmacy patients with COVID-19.” Wof a grocery store near his home in Al- Local jurisdictions launched campaigns to facilitate exandria. access to the flu vaccine and to increase awareness “It was easy. Once I’d picked up my groceries, I among those who have not yet received it. “Arlington stopped by the pharmacy before I got in the check- has partnered with other Northern Virginia jurisdic- out line,” said Whitehead, 65. “I filled out some pa- tions on the Stay Well Nova Campaign, which is pro- perwork and rolled up my sleeve. It took about 30 viding education, outreach, and resources around flu seconds.” vaccine,” said Larrick. To stave off an onslaught of emergency room visits The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a result of both the flu and COVID-19 cases, partic- (CDC) recommend that everyone 6 months and older ularly for the elderly, local health officials, are under- get vaccinated against the flu every year, especially scoring the importance of the flu vaccination. While it people who are at high risk. differs from year-to-year, flu season is typically at its peak from December through February. Getting a flu FOR MORE FLU INFORMATION v shot can reduce the risk of being hospitalized. Fairfax County: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/ “Older people with certain health conditions, in par- flu v Alexandria: alexandriava.gov/Health ticular, are at high risk of serious flu complications,” v Arlington: Stay Well Northern Virginia Campaign https:// said Kurt Larrick, Assistant Director, Arlington County www.staywellnova.com Department of Human Services. “The best way to pre- v Inova Flu Services vent the flu is by getting vaccinated.” https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-well/medi- cal-wellness/immunizations It’s not too late to receive a vaccine and an op- v Montgomery County, Md.: tion for seniors is Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/resident/flu.html licensed only for those over the age of 65. “It is es- CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/ Holiday Celebrations COVID Style

“Take a virtual tour of somewhere you would like to Dealing with separation visit.” Practice gratitude, suggests Dewhurst. “Remind from family and friends. yourself of things you do have to be thankful for,” she said. Connect with family members virtually. Talking By Marilyn Campbell to one person or one group at a time might allow for The Connection better conversations, she said. Video conferencing with family and friends, partic- he decision to spend holidays away from loved ularly during a meal, can allow one to simulate being ones can be a necessity during the coronavirus together in person. “Talking and seeing others’ faces Tpandemic. For those who’re accustomed to cel- is second best to being there and definitely will feel ebrating the season with large family gatherings, the more like you’re part of things than not,” said psychi- Learn About Adver sing solitude that comes with COVID-19 can be a difficult atrist Gail Saltz, MD, Associate Professor of Psychiatry adjustment. at the NY Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornell School “First, acknowledge that this is going to be a dif- of Medicine. “Make a dish that matches the dish of in the Connec on ferent kind of holiday,” said licensed psychologist where you would normally be going. Eating the same Denise T. Dewhurst, Ph.D., Professor of psychology food, while having conversation increases the enjoy- and Digital Op ons! at Montgomery College. “Reach out to someone else ment and sense of being together.” you know who is also alone. Even a brief phone call Put on a mask and take a socially distanced walk benefit both of you.” or other outdoor activity, says Saltz. “It may not be Adver ssinging in the Connec on A little forethought into how one’s time will be the sit-down meal, but a safe masked, distant outside spent will offer structure and can help manage feel- walk can provide some time together,” she said. and upcoming special sec oons:ns: ings of loneliness, advises Dewhurst. “For some, this Reminisce about past holidays and envision those may be watching television, or reading. For others, it that lie ahead. “Spend a part of the day looking at connnneectctionnewspapers.com/advertrs.com/advertising might be a hobby or craft.” photos privately of those you love and remembering “Work on creating something, maybe baking, art fun and close times you have had together,” said Saltz. projects, family genealogy project, a journal about “Keep in mind that when this is over, you’ll resume or call 703.778.9431 your life,” added therapist Carol Barnaby, LCSW. making more memories together.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 v 9 Classified Calendar WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 NOW THRU THE HOLIDAYS Santa at Springfield Town Center. Santa and his reindeer will be Announcements Announcements Announcements Announcements arriving at Springfield Town Center on Nov. 6 to kick-off the holiday season. In an effort to create touch- less experiences and accommodate varying levels of visitor comfort, Santa will be available at Spring- field Town Center via numerous experiences and offerings: Picture with Santa; Virtual Experience; Family Pet Photos on Mondays; Family Photos and Visits with San- ta. Reservations are required for all Santa and photo offerings.

SATURDAY/NOV. 28 PlayaBowls Reston Opening. 12-8 p.m. At Reston Town Center, 1820 Dis- covery Street. Reston, next to PR Barbers. The first 50 people who order will get their bowls on us! So make sure to line up early. Visit the website: playabowls.com Announcements Announcements SUNDAY/NOV. 29 Home for Holidays. 2-5 p.m. Online sponsored by Unity of Fairfax. This year’s holiday season is going to be different. How do we create a hol- iday season that’s meaningful and joyful...even if we spend it alone? In this 3-hour retreat, they explore this together. Cost: $45 (or sliding scale). Visit the website: https:// home-for-the-holidays-2020-11-29. eventbrite.com/?aff=cxnnews

NOV. 29 TO DEC. 3 Virtual Chanukah Bazaar. 8 to 10 p.m. Treasures Judaica Gift Shop is offering a virtual catalog of Chanu- kah products. Extending through the end of Chanukah, this site will Announcements Announcements capture your contact information and order. Pay by credit card Announcements Announcements directly through the website safely. Contactless pick-up will be by appointment in the Temple parking lot. Visit the website: https:// sisterhood-treasures-judaica-shop. shoplightspeed.com

NOW THRU DEC. 15 BUMC Holiday Marketplace. Burke United Methodist Church is hosting an online Holiday Marketplace. Proceeds will benefit our Cambodia ministry and the preschool. In- cludes links to many local crafters. Visit www.burkeumc.org

MONDAY/NOV. 30 UFC 4 Challenge. 3:30-6:30 p.m. At the Old Firehouse, McLean. In the octagon, there can only be one winner. The OFC is hosting a UFC 4 challenge and McLean’s best fighter will win a UFC-themed prize! Show us your MMA skills and may the best fighter win. To register, call MCC at 703-790- 0123, TTY: 711 or visit: www. mcleancenter.org.

DEC. 4 AND DEC. 11 Centrestage Spotlight. 6-8 p.m. Virtual Event. Centrestage Spotlight is a virtual show that will feature songs, monologues and scenes performed by Theatre Centreville students. Audience members will receive a link so the show can be enjoyed virtually. The first show can be viewed between Dec 4th and Dec 7th. The second show can be enjoyed Dec 11th through Dec 14th. To purchase tickets, go to An expert is someone who knows some https://www.theatrecentreville. of the worst mistakes that can be made com/wpa/ in his subject and how to avoid them. -Werner Heisenberg See Calendar, Page 11 10 v Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Viewpoints A Question Business of Time Directory By KENNETH B. LOURIE Let us presume, for the sake of this column, WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM that I only have papillary thyroid cancer stage IV, and that my years as a non small cell lung cancer Call 703-549-0004 patient, also stage IV, are over. If true, it begs the question, which I have been asked twice since this for advertising information recategorization has become - in my circle any- way, public knowledge: how does it make me feel (to no longer be one scan result away from having ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL months to live to now having years to live)? As obvious an answer as it should be: I can’t exactly get my mind around it. I keep hearing that “If it’s too good to be true, it isn’t” advisory in my head. I realize medicine is different, and that’s what scares me. Well, I can’t really say I feel as if I have my life back because I never really lived like it was gone. I pretty much - treatments and side effects notwith- standing - tried to maintain my normal life and to continue my routine as well. I didn’t stray too far Photo contributed from my well-established dos and don’ts. I didn’t LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING write down a bucket list and therefore spent no Gratefulness through the lens of 2020 reveals cloudiness and uncertainty. Immedi- time pursuing long-standing goals. I just did what ately, I think of resilience and the power of love that causes us to overcome. I also I have always done. I didn’t want to be controlled remember those who have loved me well and who make this difficult journey worth- by my cancer; doing things, taking trips, etc. just while, and of course, the wise words of my mother who believed simply waking up because I had a “terminal” diagnosis. To my way of “in her right mind,” was praiseworthy enough.- Karen Keys-Gamarra, Fairfax County thinking, that would have been akin to reinforcing School Board Member-at-Large a negative: a cancer that was likely to kill me soon- er rather than later so I better do such and such or else. Instead, I just lived my regular life and felt no Summer Cleanup... pressure to cross off items on a bucket list before I I am thankful for our FCPS principals and admin staff. They died. In spite of living life not as if I was dying, but are providing incredible leadership in their schools. They as if I was going to be living, (unlike the country are working on issues including COVID mitigation measures, music song that expresses a different sentiment) staffing in-person and virtual classrooms, and staff and I survived beyond my wildest timeline: so far, 11 student mental health. They are solution-oriented and are years and nine months after initially being given a “13 months to two years” prognosis. working around the clock to bring the best education possible Fast forward to the most recent - and amazing to our students and families in 2020. -- Elaine Tholen, Fairfax news: I hadn’t miraculously survived non small County School Board Member Dranesville District cell lung cancer after all, I had merely survived a very survivable and slow moving thyroid cancer (that has - or had previously, metastasized to the Photo contributed lung). Though my oncologist still thinks I have two types of cancer, my endocrinologist thinks I only have - and have had, one type, thyroid cancer. The Calendar Lombardi Cancer Center head and neck cancer Patios & Drainage specialist also feels like I have one cancer: thyroid. Her reasoning, after reviewing my medical records From Page 10 holiday STEM spirit and explore the world Your neighborhood company since 1987 was a bit more direct: “if you had lung cancer of 3D design to create your very own diagnosed 12 or so years ago, we wouldn’t be here FRIDAY/DEC. 4 cookie cutter. In this virtual workshop, the -- Holiday Drive-In Movie. At Tysons Corner STEM educators will take you through the having this discussion. You wouldn’t be alive.” So Center. Friday, December 4 – Elf from 5 process of designing a 3D cookie cutter being alive is proof, a type of proof I suppose, that p.m. – 9 p.m. Each night, the fun will on TinkerCad. Cookie cutters will be I’ve had thyroid cancer all along and never had kick-off at 5 p.m. (movie starts at 7:30 printed on the Children’s Science Center J.E.S. Services lung cancer. p.m.) and will last until the movie has 3D printer and available for pick up on Not that I want to be thick-headed but after concluded with food available from Friday, December 18 from 4 p.m. - 6 Free Estimates - Fully Licensed & Insured nearly 12 years of being told that I had lung cancer participating eateries as well as some live p.m. and Saturday, December 19 from • Planting & Landscaping Design and living scan to scan every two to three months entertainment, trivia, and music prior to 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Cost is $25. Visit the • Drainage & Water Problems and anxiously waiting as well for my lab results the show. Tickets for Elf will be released website: https://www.childsci.org/events/ • Concrete Driveways, Replacement or New every three weeks • Patios and Walks • Masonry Work or Dry Laid the week of November 23rd. Reservation diy-workshop-cookie-cutter-creation I find myself unable to let go of the worst case required, with a donation of $10 or more • Paver, Flagstone, Brick, any style you choose • Retaining walls of all types scenario that has been my life since Feb., 2009, to Food for Others, a local nonprofit pro- and embrace this amended diagnosis. I can’t seem SATURDAY/DEC. 5 All work Guaranteed viding food to neighbors in need. Pancake Breakfast. 9:30-11:30 a.m. At Turner to turn off my internal anxiety/fear clock. In fact, Farm, 10609 Georgetown Pike, Great it’s still stuck in its original position. I’m like an DEC. 4-6 Falls. Turner Farmhouse Foundation ocean liner headed out to sea. It can hardly turn Capital Craft Fair. 12 to 5 p.m. At Dulles Expo invites the community to come to its on a dime and neither can I. Certainly I want Center, 4320 Chantlly Shopping Center, Pancake Breakfast and Fundraiser. Come to believe it and I don’t really doubt the thyroid Chantilly. A Showcase of Artistry and tour the grounds, visit the milk house cancer opinions I’ve received, but it just seems Craftsmanship - The Capital Craft Fair and enjoy pancakes, coffee, tea and hot that having your wildest dreams come true after will feature works of art and fine crafts chocolate. They are raising funds to almost 12 years of trying to accept the reality of presented by more than 100 juried artists. work on the Retreat House, and will start your cancer situation/early death is too much Artists will offer a wide variety of hand- construction once the Special Exception good fortune for anyone to imagine/realize. It’s the made art in several mediums. Cost: $10 application is approved. Contact Sarah opposite of normal. As much as one might want it Adults (in advance) $12 (at the door). Vis- Kirk, [email protected], 703-403-3072. to happen, it’s just not the way it generally works. I it the website: https://hubs.la/H0y-gJs0 don’t suppose doctors hand out terminal diagnosis DEC. 5 AND 6 before giving it extra ample thought. And yet, I’m SATURDAY/DEC. 5 Festival of Nativities. 5-8 p.m. At Church about to be living proof. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. 3 p.m. of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Nevertheless, every day, the shock of it begins At Reston Community Center Hunters 6219 Villa Street, Franconia. Celebrate to wear off and I can contemplate my future once Woods, CenterStage, Reston. Cost is $5 Christmas at an open house event to view Reston/$10 Non-Reston. Mark Brutsché again. No more will I count the days between nativities from around the world. This scans. No longer will I dread reading my lab work brings his unique spin on this childhood will be a wonderful way to focus on the and wondering what it all means. Oddly enough, favorite that will be fun for the whole true meaning of Christmas as the holiday what it all means is that I’ll probably continue/ family. Visit the website www.restoncom- season begins. To promote the health and resume my previous life, boring and mundane as munitycenter.com/ptas. safety of volunteers and guests, they ask that you sign up for a window of time to it was because, well, it worked for me then so I SATURDAY/DEC. 5 attend. Details and the registration link imagine it will work for me now. Cookie Cutter Creation - 3D Printing Work- can be found at: www.festivalofnativities. Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for shop. 10-11:30 a.m. Online. Get into the com The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 v 11 12 v Great Falls Connection v November 25 - December 1, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com