St. Francis Creche Preschool at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Great Falls performed the Christmas Story. Pictured: Bell Ringers singing “Mary riding on a Donkey” are Sam Rhines, Eva Steorts, Jamie Roth and Carter Martin.

Preschoolers Present Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, 9 Classifieds, Christmas Story News, Page 7 County Faces More Wellbeing Budget Challenges Page 8 Commentary, Page 4 Session Brings Sea Change News, Page 3 Photo contributed Photo January 3-9, 2018 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com 2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected] Session Brings Sea Change

ing marijuana. Several states across the Wave election country have already done this, and now that California has legalized pot for recre- swamps Richmond ational use many feel that the tide may be turning on this issue. According to a recent with freshman report by the State Crime Commis- sion, law enforcement officers have arrested members eager to more than 130,000 people for possession of marijuana in the last decade — 84 per- make their mark. cent of them first-time offenders. “I think people are realizing how inap- By Michael Lee Pope propriate it is to give people a criminal pen- The Connection alty for a drug that so many people have tried and used and is arguably less signifi- his year’s General Assembly cant and harmful than alcohol,” said Ebbin. will be like no other. For start- “It’s still a tough fight. But we’ve got Sen- T ers, the members walking the ate Majority Leader Tommy Norment sup- halls of the Capitol will not look porting it generally. And we’ve got Govenor- the same. The crop of freshman includes the elect Ralph Northam supporting it, gener- first transgender woman to serve in the Vir- ally.” ginia General Assembly, the first lesbian, the first Asian-American woman and the first ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL last year, two Latinas. Gone are the 12 Republican Republicans and Democrats both supported members who were unseated, all white several key agenda items — an indication males. Also gone are the three members who Photo contributed that members from both sides of the aisle got out before the bloodbath that flipped Republicans were unseated in 12 House districts, and Democrats flipped may end up working together this year on their seats from red to blue, also all white three seats where GOP incumbents decided against running in a year certain issues. One of those is ethics reform, males. In their place is a diverse and young that ended up being a Democratic wave. a hot topic in Virginia since former Repub- group of new members who are eager to lican Gov. Bob McDonnell was convicted of make their mark on the commonwealth. out of them.” against banning assault weapons, for ex- corruption then cleared of wrongdoing by At the top of the agenda for the Demo- ample. State Sen. George Barker (D-39) is the U.S. Supreme Court. During the cam- cratic freshmen is expanding Medicaid to THE WAVE ELECTION of 2017 was introducing a bill that would allow judges paign last year, Republican candidate for 400,000 people who would be eligible un- widely seen as a reacting to the Trump ad- to confiscate firearms from individuals they governor Ed Gillespie and Republican can- der the Affordable Care Act. ministration, and some of the bills that are consider dangerous. didate for lieutenant governor Jill Vogel “I think what’s really important for us, as now being crafted are also a reaction to the “It would have to go to court, and a judge both talked about closing a loophole that Democrats, is to identify on the other side Republican agenda in Washington. State would have to issue a ruling that there’s allows candidates to use campaign money who we could have come over and join us,” Sen. Dave Marsden (D-37) is putting to- probable cause and it’s a serious situation for personal use. That’s an issue that already said , who flipped a formerly gether a tax reform plan as a Virginia an- and the gun should be temporarily re- has support among Democrats, although Republican seat held by Del. (D- swer to federal tax reform that gives tax cuts moved,” said Barker. “In some states, it al- drawing a distinction between official use 42) for more than 20 years. “We’re going to for the wealthy and corporations. Marsden lows police officers to confiscate it. But the and personal use can be a gray area. have to reach out and basically identify wants to eliminate the food tax, reinstitute bills that we are putting in do not. You “I think we’ve got a consensus that we who’s really vulnerable and who’s going to the inheritance tax and increase the gas tax. would have to go to court.” need to do something,” said Del. Marcus be in a position where they’re going to have His tax-reform plan also taxes some services Simon (D-53). “Whether we make it a weak to be supporting the progressive values that for the first time. For example lawn care MANY OF THE BILLS lawmakers are ban or a strong ban — a civil violation or a were voted in as a wave across the com- and dry cleaning would be taxed but law- working on involve unfinished business criminal act — I think we’re going to out- monwealth.” yers and doctors would not. from previous sessions. State Sen. Scott law it one way or another.” Even if they’re successful navigating the “Ever since I’ve been in the legislature I’ve Surovell (D-36) is working on a bill that Another issue where Republicans and diminished House Republican caucus, heard complaints that we have a 19th cen- would force Dominion to clean up decades Democrats are in agreement is expanding House Democrats will still have to deal with tury agriculture and manufacturing tax base of pollution at several coal ash ponds broadband to rural areas. Of course the a Republican-controlled Senate. But the but we’re now a service economy. So this throughout Virginia. Dominion Energy details of how to make that happen and who culture in the Senate is more moderate, and will start to tax some of those services,” said plans to seal the pollution in place and put benefits are where lawmakers get divided, Republican senators have a history of sup- Marsden. “We’re trying to draw a distinc- a cap on the ponds, which is significantly although this is one of those issues where porting bills that have been routinely tion and get the discussion going around cheaper than cleaning up the pollution. But party ideology is less important than re- blocked in the House. which services are optional for people and Surovell wants to require that the utility gional ties. Last year, for example, Republi- For example, Senate Republicans have a which ones are really necessary that we recycle the coal ash into concrete or ceram- cans were divided about whether to create history of supporting the effort raising the shouldn’t burden them with taxes on.” ics. And, Surovell adds, it won’t actually be new hurdles for local governments to set threshold for grand larceny. That’s an issue Democrats are also eager to finally get more expensive for Dominion at all because up broadband networks in places where that Democrats have been pushing unsuc- some traction on gun control, which House the utility will end up passing along the cost that might create competition for private cessfully for years that may now finally have Republicans have blocked for years. Back to people who are paying for electricity . providers. This year, the issue of broadband a chance in 2018. in 2015, Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe “You eliminate the possibility that this will once again be an important topic of “We heard during the gubernatorial cam- was able to forge a deal with Republicans toxic gunk will continue to leak arsenic, lead conversation. paign, Ed Gillespie was supporting an in- to make state police available for voluntary and other chemicals into our groundwater “I’m looking at ways to reduce regulatory crease so this is one of those issues that — background checks at gun shows. Now forever,” said Surovell. “Landfilling is the burdens,” said Del. Jennifer Boysko (D-86). especially with the outcome of the election Democrats are hoping that newly reconsti- short-term cheap solution. But long-term it “So I’m talking about including broadband — I think you can see some support behind,” tuted House committees and subcommittees has the worst potential effects because the in your municipal comprehensive plan, set- said Del. (D-47), who is in- might give them a chance to at least get stuff continues to leach out chemicals and ting up a dig-once policy and creating a data troducing a bill that raises the threshold gun control legislation on the floor rather give people cancer and poison fish and birds governance board for smart communities.” from $200 to $500. “If someone makes a than having it killed in subcommittee, a and ruin our groundwater.” dumb mistake and walks out of a store with strategy Republicans used that allowed State Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-30) is also re- something small we shouldn’t make a felon them to avoid being on the record voting turning to a familiar theme: decriminaliz- See Assembly, Page 11 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 ❖ 3 Opinion Great Falls

A Happy New Year? At least www.ConnectionNewspapers.com An independent, locally owned weekly some cause for hope .… newspaper delivered 2018 to homes and businesses. Published by Local Media Connection LLC irginia’s election last November, just Virginia’s success has generated buzz about political district boundaries after the next cen- two months ago, was the first in the pursuing sweeping change in other state leg- sus. 1606 King Street Vnation since the current administra- islatures around the country. ❖ Progress in transparency, and making pub- Alexandria, Virginia 22314 tion took over in Washington. Del. said it well recently (on lic information public. This includes lawmak- Free digital edition delivered to Here in Virginia there was some anxiety and Facebook): “If someone had told me on Jan. ers killing most proposed legislation with un- your email box. Go to uncertainty rolling into Election Day. First, at 1, 2017 that one year later Democrats would recorded voice votes in subcommittee, with no connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe least one race will not be decided until later have picked up no fewer than 15 and prob- accountability or record of how members this week. Second, the Democrats swept the ably as many as 17 seats in the Virginia House voted. It should also include rolling back some NEWS DEPARTMENT: statewide races, Governor, of Delegates I would have said, ‘Love your op- of the many exemptions to the Freedom of In- [email protected] Lieutenant Governor, and At- timism, but don’t get carried away.’ formation Act passed by the General Assem- Editorial Kemal Kurspahic torney General. “My advice to anyone running for office or bly. Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 Democrats hoped to make thinking about running for office, or working ❖ Ethics reform, campaign finance reform. [email protected] gains in the House of Delegates. It’s fair to say for people running for office in 2018: Get car- ❖ Making it easier, not harder, to vote. ❖ Fallon Forbush no one anticipated the Democrats taking the ried away.” More control over utility rates and pollu- Reporter House. After all, Republicans held held a 66- The new look and balance in the General tion. [email protected] 34 majority, a nearly insurmountable advan- Assembly could provide progress on some long ❖ Criminal justice reform, including raising tage. stalled issues. (More Democrats in office do the threshold for a felony from $200 to $500. Andrea Worker ❖ Reporter Democrats gained at least 15 seats in a turn- not equate to progress in all of these areas, it’s Tax reform. [email protected] about that could leave the House split 50-50. important to note.) A “wish list” could go on at some length. New members include the first transgender ❖ Expanding Medicaid under the Affordable The 2018 session of the Virginia General Mike Salmon Editorial Assistant woman to serve in the Virginia General Assem- Care Act to cover hundreds of thousands of Assembly begins Jan. 10. [email protected] bly, the first lesbian delegate, the first Asian- poor people without coverage American woman delegate and the first two ❖ Nonpartisan redistricting and use of na- — Mary Kimm Latina delegates. tional best practices when it comes to drawing [email protected] ADVERTISING: For advertising information [email protected] 703-778-9431

Salome Howard-Gaibler County Faces More Budget Challenges Display Advertising 703-415-5394 What to expect in begin on the fully funded Route 7 Corridor Im- [email protected] provements Project to widen and improve 6.9 Debbie Funk miles of Route 7 between Reston Avenue and National Sales Dranesville District? Jarrett Valley Drive. The improvements will 703-778-9444 decrease congestion, increase capacity, im- [email protected] By Supervisor John Foust prove safety, and expand mobility for cyclists David Griffin (D-Dranesville) and pedestrians – all in conformity with Fairfax Marketing Assistant County’s Comprehensive Plan. Delivering the 703-778-9431 [email protected] nce again, the County adopting a project using a design-build team is expected budget that adequately funds essen to condense the project timeline and save two O Editor & Publisher tial services will be challenging. Con- years over conventional project delivery. Con- Mary Kimm Photo contributed tinuing impacts from sequestration, slow job struction is expected to be completed in fall [email protected] growth, weak commercial real estate markets Turner Farm House: After initial 2025. @MaryKimm and uncertainty about U.S. fiscal policy and review of a number of applications ❖ McLean Streetscape – This project includes Executive Vice President tax reform will make the Board’s job particu- for the curator program at Turner installation of brick pavers, lights and land- Jerry Vernon larly challenging this year. The County Execu- Farm Park, the Park Authority se- scaping along the south side of Chain Bridge 703-549-0004 tive will present his advertised FY 2019 bud- lected one to continue through the Road from Redmond Drive to Old Dominion [email protected] get to the Board in February. application process. Drive to Center Street, and along both sides of Editor in Chief Preliminary information suggests a projected Chain Bridge Road from Laughlin Street to Steven Mauren shortfall of $99 million, including $56 million Curran Street. Managing Editor for the County budget and $43 million for the National Capital Region to host a connected ❖ Baron Road Walkway – Approximately 430 Kemal Kurspahic Art/Design: School budget. Even after the investments and autonomous vehicles event, and later in linear feet of sidewalk including curb and gut- Laurence Foong, John Heinly, FCPS has made in teacher pay in recent bud- the year, with VDOT to host a transportation ter will be installed along Baron Road connect- Ali Khaligh gets, our teachers are still paid below the mar- and mobility hackathon. These are examples ing the Dead Run Park trail to Douglas Drive. Production Manager: ket average. Closing that pay gap is key to re- of the kind of strategic partners and innova- ❖ Kirby Road Walkway – Approximately 800 Geovani Flores cruiting and retaining great teachers, and it tive and entrepreneurial thinking we hope to linear feet of sidewalk will be installed on Kirby Special Assistant to the Publisher will again be a major budget priority for the encourage. As chairman of the County’s Eco- Road from Chesterbrook Road to Chesterbrook Jeanne Theismann Board of Supervisors and the School Board. nomic Advisory Commission, I will continue Elementary School. Additional projects south [email protected] @TheismannMedia to work with County staff, the Economic De- of this section will follow and are currently in velopment Authority, businesses, and non- design. Strategic Partnerships profit groups to further implement the recom- ❖ Dolley Madison Boulevard Walkway – Ap- CIRCULATION [email protected] mendations of the Strategic Plan. proximately 2,400 linear feet of sidewalk will in Economy be installed from Great Falls Street/Lewinsville The County’s Economic Success Strategic Intersection to McLean Metro Station, provid- Plan, which focuses on high-level policy rec- Transportation ing a pedestrian connection from downtown ommendations aimed at helping the County McLean to the Metro. expand and diversify the economy, was Improvements ❖ Sunrise Valley Drive Sidewalk – Approxi- adopted in 2015. The implementation status Several pedestrian and road projects are mately 370 linear feet of sidewalk will be con- of the plan is updated annually. The most re- scheduled to be started or completed in 2018, structed along Sunrise Valley Drive from River cent update included several actions related including the following: Birch Road to Legacy Circle. to the Plan’s goals. For example, in 2017, ❖ Route 7 Widening – A design-build con- Fairfax County partnered with Virginia Tech tract will be awarded and land acquisition will See A Look Ahead, Page 10

4 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Home of the $6,850 Bathroom Remodel From Now to WOW in 5 Days Guarantee “Budapest Parlia- Select your 10% down TWO POOR TEACHERS ment Reflection” products from captures the nothing until the job isis completecomplete forfor thethe Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling our Mobile dramatic night past 17 years Showroom view of the Hun- and Design garian Parliament Center and front plaza Fully Insured & with its reflec- Class A Licensed tion. This photo Since 1999 will be on display at Katie’s Coffee in Great Falls, Free Estimates Jan. 1-31, 2018 Photo by Dee Leggett 703-214-8384 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com ‘Evening in Europe’ At Katie’s Coffee “Evening in Europe” is an exhibit nature photographer, the dramatic of photography capturing the stun- evening views in these locations ning evening scenes in several Eu- captured her eye. Dee said, “Light ropean cities on display at Katie’s is key for photographers. It was Coffee in Great Falls, Jan. 1-31, fascinating to see and photograph 2018. Through Dee Leggett’s pho- the dramatic lighting of these old tographs the visitor can wander the beautiful cities with their church streets and enjoy the beautifully lit domes and spires, castles, govern- evening sites of castles, bridges, par- ment buildings, and bridges. The liament, churches, and rivers in reflection of the lights on the river Budapest, Lucerne, and Prague. Dee just added to the ethereal scenes.” and her husband visited these cities “Visions of Great Falls,” Dee’s photo over the past two years and were journal of scenes and history of Great surprised by their magnificence. Falls, contains numerous photos of Dee Leggett, a Great Falls resi- the falls, as well as many from the dent, has been capturing beauty Great Falls area. To see more of Dee’s in her photographs for more than work visit her website at 10 years. Although primarily a deeleggettphotography.vpweb.com.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 ❖ 5 Visit These Houses of Worship Viewpoints FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF VIENNA What’s Your New Year’s Resolution for 2018? — Colin Stoecker 450 ORCHARD STREET, NW VIENNA, VA 22180 Ottonsuren Rebecca Owen, a 703-938-8525 Bandihkuu, from Reston resident,the email: [email protected] Inner Mongolia, lives manager of Jinny www.fbcv.org in Arlington and Beyer Studio in Great works at River Nail Falls. SUNDAY WORSHIP, 7:45 AM & 10:00 AM and Spa in Great “I want to quilt more CHRISTIAN LEARNING ACADEMY (SUN.) 9:00AM-9:45AM Falls. and to finish some of the MIDWEEK SERVICES, WED. 7:00 PM “We hope our business quilts that I have already will be successful. I am started. I find quilting very To Highlight Your Faith Community, call Don at 703-778-9420 personally excited to relaxing and I love making finish my Master’s degree something where I have next year. I study psychol- something to show for it ogy.” at the end.”

Sharon Gokey, a Linda Waitkus, Great Vienna resident, a Falls resident and sales clerk in the mail owner of Great Dogs order department at of Great Falls for nine Jinny Beyer Studio in years, believes in New Great Falls. Year’s resolutions for “First of all I’ve got to dogs. get more organized and “Those are to eat quilt more. I also want to healthy, to eat whole exercise more. I feel like foods, play a lot, go for I’m out of control some- walks with their loved times, so if I am more ones, eat lots of treats, organized I will have more inner and all kinds of fun things. All of the above is how peace and inner Zen.” you do it. Because if they eat well and play a lot and get lots of exercise and lots of love, snuggle on the bed and couch with your people they will be healthy.”

Children’s & Teens’ Connection 2017

Alex Gryzlov, 14, of Great Falls, submitted these late entries for the Children’s & Teens’ Connec- tion 2017. Clock- wise, from top left: Spiderman, Star Wars BB-8 and Tiger.

6 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

Photos contributed Shepherds: Carter Martin, Ben Moser, Wesley Martin and Sebastien McHugh. St. Francis Creche Preschool Presents Christmas Story St. Francis Creche Preschool at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Great Falls performed the Christmas Story. The annual school-wide pageant is conducted by Susan Gardiner and accompanied by Walter Koehler, organist. Students ages 2 1/2-5 years participate.

Pictured: Mary – Olivia Meng, Gabriel – Erin Handoll, Joseph – Anthony Shadid and Angel – Annie Baker.

Kings – Mila Sarkar, Emma Ejtemai and Lukas Wolff.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 ❖ 7 Wellbeing Ready for the Cold Preventing, recognizing Record cold temperatures and treating hypothermia can lead to frostbite and and frostbite. hypothermia.

By Marilyn Campbell

Photo by rigid temperatures and the chill of winter can Marilyn Campbell Fusher in dangerous health conditions, particu- larly for those most vulnerable: the elderly and young children. Two of the most prevalent cold- clothing that traps your body temperature and pro- weather ills are hypothermia and frostbite. For those tects you from cold air and wind,” she said. “A basic who have to be outside when it is dangerously cold, formula to keep in mind: a base layer that should be knowing the warning signs and prevention tech- made from a fabric that wicks away moisture. The niques for these conditions are the keys to keeping second layer should trap heat so it should be made them at bay, say health care providers. of a polyester fleece over something similar. The top “Even a typical winter in this area can be danger- layer should be waterproof and windproof.” ous,” said Amy Talbot, Ph.D, of George Mason Uni- Lowe recommends avoiding cotton clothing dur- versity. “But extreme conditions can make it even ing the extreme cold because if it gets wet, it can worse for those most vulnerable.” make you cold. “Many of these preventative mea- Hypothermia, which occurs when one’s body core sure are things that most people already know, but temperature drops, can develop more quickly than may not think about until it’s too late,” she said. many people realize, says Talbot. “Obviously feeling Another preventative component, says Talbot, is very cold is a warning sign, but also shivering and nutrition. Both food and liquids can help keep one’s experiencing signs that the cold is affecting your body warm. “Skipping a meal can make you more brain, so feeling disoriented, stumbling or losing susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite,” she said. balance easily, unusual speech pattern or changes in “It’s important to eat carbs and protein for energy personality.” when you’re going to be outside for a prolonged pe- Frostbite is when the skin and underlying tissue riod of time, like if you’re hiking or playing sports.” are damaged by cold temperatures, says Beth Lowe, If you believe that you are beginning to develop RN, a private-duty nurse in frostbite or hypothermia, Arlington. “During the begin- Local Shelters Lowe says in order to avoid ning stages of frostbite, you advancing the seriousness of might see your skin turn red the condition, move your For those who are not able to seek shel- and you’ll feel numb or tin- ter, social service providers in Virginia and body by doing jumping jacks gling or stinging,” she said. Maryland are ramping up efforts to provide or some other vigorous move- “The main thing to remember shelter to those who need to get out of the ment and get out of the frigid is not to try to re-warm your cold. For more information: elements. “There’s no set own skin, because you can do Fairfax County amount of time that it takes more damage. It’s best to seek 703-691-2131 or fairfaxcounty.gov for [hypothermia or frost- emergency medical treat- bite] to develop, so it’s impor- ment.” City of Alexandria tant to keep an eye on those 703-548-7500 or alexandriava.gov Dressing in layers and wear- who are most vulnerable. But ing shoes that are appropriate Montgomery County once you notice the warning for extreme cold are keys to 240-777-3289 or signs you can try to stop the preventing hypothermia and montgomerycountymd.gov conditions before they ad- frostbite, advises Carolyn Arlington County vance, by drinking plenty of Johnson, Ph.D. of Montgom- 703-228-1300 or 703-228-1010 fluids, eating carbs and get- ery College. “When it’s ex- publicassistance.arlingtoncounty.gov ting inside to a warmer tem- tremely cold you want to wear perature.”

8 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/ Calendar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged.

ONGOING tours, school programs and special Universalist Congregation of Fairfax - Winter Walk of Lights. At events. Fees: $7/adult, $6 students Program Building, 2709 Hunter Mill Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, 9750 16+ with ID, $5 children & seniors. Road, Oakton. Increase brain power. Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna. Admission to park is free except for Visit www.scov.org for more. During the Winter Walk of Lights, the some special events. garden is transformed into a half- Fundamentals of Watercolors. mile, walk of lights. Revisit perennial Mondays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Arts FRIDAY/JAN. 12 favorites such as the animated of Great Falls, 756 Walker Road, Dining with Dorothy. 12:30 p.m. at Lakeside Lights, the Fountain of Great Falls. Artist Lorrie Herman will Skorpio’s Maggios Greek Family Lights, and the Holiday Nature Walk help students get comfortable Restaurant, 421 Maple Ave. E, – and look for new displays each working with watercolors and Vienna. Socializing and dining event. year. Round out a visit roasting understanding this medium. Visit Email [email protected] for marshmallows and sipping on hot www.greatfallsart.org for more. more. beverages, available for purchase. Evening Painting. Tuesdays 6:30 - 5th and 6th Grader Party. 7-9 p.m. Visit www.novaparks.com/events/ 9:30 p.m. at The Arts of Great Falls, at The Old Firehouse, 1440 Chain winter-walk-of-lights. 756 Walker Road, Great Falls. Jill Bridge Road, McLean. Patrons will Textures Exhibit. Through Jan. 7, Banks focuses on oil painting enjoy free catered food and various times at the Vienna Arts fundamentals with two sessions each beverages, music played by a Center, 115 Pleasant St., NW. Call of still life, landscapes, and portrait/ professional disc jockey, dancing on 703-319-3971 or visit clothed figure from a live model. an open dance floor and other www.ViennaArtsSociety.org for Visit www.greatfallsart.org for more. attractions, such as a photo booth, more. temporary tattoos and board games. Great Falls Farmers Market. $35/$25 MCC district residents. Call Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 778 Walker SATURDAY/JAN. 6 703-448-TEEN for more. Road, Great Falls. Music, vendors, Rainbows, Haloes, and Glories. 10- fresh produce, fresh prepared food, 11 a.m. at Turner Farm Park, 925 delightful bakery, spices from around Springvale Road, Great Falls. At SATURDAY/JAN. 13 the world, wild-caught fish, grass- Observatory Park at Turner Farm, Women at the Helm. 10 a.m. at the fed, free-range meats, organic-fed explore phenomena that can be seen Patrick Henry Library, 101 Maple poultry and eggs. Email in the open sky. Learn about Ave. E. Vienna Mayor Laurie DiRocco [email protected] rainbows, haloes and glories, the and Town Council Members Carey for more. green flash and purple light, and why Sienicki and Linda Colbert will share McLean Farmers Market, Fridays, the sky is blue and sunsets are their experiences of leading the Town through Nov. 17, 2017; 8 a.m. to orange. $8. Call 703-324-8618 for of Vienna. Visit vienna-va.aauw.net/. noon, 1659 Chain Bridge Road, more. Star Gazing. 10-11 a.m. at Turner McLean, Master Gardener Plant Aesop’s Fables. 11 a.m. at Churchill Farm Park, 925 Springvale Road, Clinic on site to answer questions Road Elementary School, 7100 Great Falls. Enjoy guided star gazing, about plants in your landscape Churchill Road, McLean. Barter look through a telescope, and listen Free Tai Chi. Every Saturday, from players act out “Androcles and the to constellation stories around the 7:55-9 a.m., Introduction and Lion,” “The Oak and the Reed,” “The campfire at Observatory Park at Beginners’ Practice, meet on the Fox Without a Tail,” “The Beast in Turner Farm. $10. Call 703-324-8618 outdoor basketball court located Love,” “The Tortoise and The Hare” for more. directly behind the Dolley Madison and “The Boy Who Cried Wolf.” $15, Public Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Ave. or $10 to McLean Community Center in McLean Central Park, McLean. Call members. Call 703-790-0123 for SUNDAY/JAN. 14 703-759-9141 or visit more. MLK Speaker. 2 p.m. at The Old www.FreeTaiChi.org for more. Dog Sled Drama. 3 p.m. at Churchill Firehouse, 1440 Chain Bridge Road. The Freeman Store & Museum Road Elementary School, 7100 Award-winning sports columnist Wednesday through Sunday noon-4 Churchill Road, McLean. Barter William Rhoden will speak on the p.m. 131 Church St. NE, Vienna. The Players presents “The Call of the timely subject of “Activist Athletes.” Freeman Store & Museum is Wild.” $15, or $10 to McLean $20, $10 for McLean Community dedicated to Preserving and Community Center members. For Center tax district residents. Visit: promoting Vienna’s heritage through ages 12 and older. Call 703-790-0123 www.aldentheatre.org or call 703- the identification, preservation, and for more. 790-0123 for more. interpretation of history significant Rorie in Concert. 7 p.m. at Jammin’ places, events, and persons. Java, 227 Maple Ave E, Vienna. Local Historicviennainc.org SUNDAY/JAN. 7 musician plays her new EP called Weekly Storytime. Wednesday and Meet the Plant Artist. 1-3 p.m. at “Dawn.” Call 703-255-1566 or visit Saturday. 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, Green Spring Botanical Gardens, www.roriemusic.com for more. 7851 L Tysons Corner Center, 4603 Green Spring, Road, McLean. Themes and titles vary. Free Alexandria. Great Falls artist, Betty admission. Ganley will be presented with the TUESDAY/JAN. 16 Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. Flame First Place award for her watercolor, Meet the Civil War Author. 10 a.m.- Room, Vienna Volunteer Fire La Plumage at the event. Vienna Art 1 p.m. at St. Francis Episcopal Department, 400 Center St. S, Society multi media art exhibit, “Up Church, 9220 Georgetown Pike, Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/ Close To Mother Nature” will be on Great Falls. James G. Lewis talks bingo.html. exhibit until Feb 25. Call 703-642- about his book “Confederate Calvary Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. 5173 for more. General Jeb Stuart” and Civil War Emmaus United Church of Christ, A Gershwin Celebration. 4 p.m. at history around Great Falls. Lunch will 900 E Maple Ave. E., Vienna. Saint Francis Episcopal Church, 9220 be served and reservations are Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Unitarian Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. required. Contact Karen Emami at Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, Featuring Millicent Scarlett, soprano; [email protected] or 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. Brian Quenton Thorne, tenor; Alvy call 703-938-6471. Gentle Kundalini Yoga, one free Powell, bass-baritone; and Frank introductory session, senior Conlon, pianist and host.A pre- discounts. Increase flexibility, concert lecture by Music Director A. WEDNESDAY/JAN. 17 improve breathing and health, reduce Scott Wood will begin at 3:15 pm, 45 Art Workshop. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the stress. Ravi Kaur has 15 years minutes prior to the start of the Vienna Arts Center, 115 Pleasant St. experience teaching yoga. $15 per concert. Visit Artist Jacqueline Saunders is hosting session. www.edimprovement.org. www.amadeusconcerts.com for more. a one day workshop. Call 703-319- 571-213-3192. 3971 or visit Fishing Rod Rentals 8700 Potomac www.ViennaArtsSociety.org for Hills St., Great Falls. Rentals TUESDAY/JAN. 9 more. available during visitor center hours. Civil War in Fairfax. 7:30 p.m. at the Fishing tackle and live bait are McLean Governmental Center, 1437 available for purchase. Reservations Balls Hill Road, McLean. The FRIDAY/JAN. 26 required for group rentals. $6/rental program will feature noted historian Artists Reception. 6-9 p.m. at (2 hour max). Valid driver’s license Don Hakenson who will discuss “Rare Torpedo Factory Artists @ Mosaic, required. Rod/reel combinations are Civil War Stories in Fairfax County.” 2905 District Ave, Suite 115, perfect for beginners and children. A Call 703-356-8223 for more. Fairfax.Artist Susan Gulick will be Virginia or Maryland freshwater there discussing her show fishing license is required for those “Uncommon Visions,” which will be 16 years or older. The park does not THURSDAY/JAN. 11 on display Jan. 24-Feb. 25. Visit sell fishing licenses. McLean Traveler Day Trip. 9:30 torpedofactory.org for more. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Churchill Road riverbend-park/ Elementary School, 7100 Churchill Colvin Run Mill open 11 - 4 p.m. Road, McLean. Trip to National SATURDAY/JAN. 27 daily, closed Tuesday. 10017 Colvin Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. to Artists Reception. 4-6 p.m. at Vienna Run Road, Great Falls. Fairfax see “Johannes Vermeer and the Art Center, 115 Pleasant St., NW. Jazz County’s operational 19th century Masters of Genre Painting.” Call 703- It Up! Exhibit open until March 3. water powered gristmill, offers 790-0123 for more. Free and open to the public. Call 703- recreational and educational Adventures in Learning Open 319-3971 or visit activities for all ages through daily House. 10-noon at UUCF Unitarian www.ViennaArtsSociety.org for more. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 ❖ 9 Opinion A Look Ahead in 2018

From Page 4

❖ Traffic Signal at River Birch Road and Coppermine Road – As a result of numerous citizen comments and concerns, I advocated for the instal- lation of a traffic signal at the intersection of River Birch Road and Coppermine Road in Herndon. The signal will be installed in 2018.

Photo contributed McLean Traffic Shoulder pull-off area: Several pedestrian and road projects are scheduled to be Mitigation Efforts started or completed in 2018. During the past year, I have worked with other elected officials and staff from VDOT and Fairfax private-public partnership between the County and County to address resident concerns regarding con- Wesley-Hamel Lewinsville LLC. gestion and cut-through traffic caused by the lack of sufficient capacity on the American Legion Bridge and the Beltway on the Maryland side of that bridge. McLean Community VDOT has begun implementing improvements to the intersection of Balls Hill Road and Georgetown Pike, Center Expands including the construction of a pull-off area on the Next fall, residents will be welcomed back to a reno- north side of Georgetown Pike between Balls Hill vated and expanded McLean Community Center. The Road and the Beltway ramp so that the police can project involves renovating approximately 33,000 safely enforce traffic violations in the area. In addi- existing square feet and adding 7,700 square feet. tion, we have formed a community Advisory Group The project includes two additional multi-purpose to review options for addressing traffic concerns, rooms, an enclosed outdoor courtyard with seating make recommendations, and share updates with and landscaping, refurbished meeting rooms, and a their neighbors. The first meeting with take place in more modern look with new wall, ceiling, and floor January. I look forward to continuing to work with treatments. The renovation will also upgrade the tech- the community to address these very serious traffic nology throughout the building and improve and problems. enhance the storm water management system while bringing the MCC into compliance with current ADA and building code regulations. The parking lot will Revitalization be regraded and resurfaced; additional parking spaces will be added, and walkway lighting will be improved. Efforts in McLean The $8 million renovation project is fully funded Fostering reinvestment in downtown McLean re- through the MCC’s capital reserves. The MCC build- mains a priority. I am happy to report that the Sig- ing has been closed since April 2017; however, pro- net, a 123-unit condominium project, by JBG SMITH grams and special events have continued to be held will be completed in 2018. This project will provide in various locations around town. additional housing choices for McLean area residents and will increase the customer base for downtown businesses. While I am disappointed that the appli- Turner Farm Re-imagined cant for the Main Street project withdrew its pro- Turner Farm Park offers a unique mix of educational posal, there continues to be community support for and recreational facilities with horseback riding and high-quality redevelopment in downtown McLean. jumping facilities, picnic pavilion/shelter, playground, While it is good to see interest in individual projects, trails and an astronomy area with a roll-top observa- it is also important to periodically take a holistic tory that offers adults and children a chance to gaze review of the vision for McLean. That is why I have upon the stars. The Park Authority is currently un- asked County staff to initiate a community-led re- dertaking a revision to the master plan for the park view of the Comprehensive Plan for the McLean Cen- to incorporate three parcels of land acquired subse- tral Business District. That effort will commence in quent to the 2000 master plan approval as well as to early 2018. I look forward to working on this vi- implement the Resident Curator Program. After ini- sioning and planning project with residents and tial review of a number of applications for the cura- stakeholder groups such as the McLean Planning tor program at Turner Farm Park, the Park Authority Committee, McLean Revitalization Corporation, and selected one to continue through the application pro- McLean Citizens Association. cess. The applicant, a resident of Great Falls, has pro- posed to live in and maintain the historic Turner Farm House, create a pony farm on a portion of the land Lewinsville Senior Center and convert the current garage-apartment structure Next year will see the grand opening of the first of into a bereavement retreat center for youth who have two buildings in the Lewinsville Redevelopment lost a parent or sibling. The Park Authority is cur- Project in McLean. That building will consist of 80 rently reviewing comments on the draft plan received independent affordable living apartments for low- from the public and will incorporate changes to the income seniors. The second building, which is also plan as deemed appropriate. It is expected that the under construction, will house an expanded senior Park Authority Board will approve the revision to the center, an adult day care center and two children’s Master Plan in early 2018. The Board of Supervisors day care centers. The second building is estimated is expected to enter into a lease with the resident to open in early 2019. The Lewinsville Project is a curator also in 2018.

10 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin I’m Very Seldom Wrong, But This Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and Time I’m Write artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event. By KENNETH B. LOURIE Since I don’t have to write for a deadline TUESDAY/JAN. 9 this week (12/27/17 papers have already gone Vienna Oakton Chapter of NARFE. 1 p.m. at to press), maybe I’ll write for pleasure. Not the Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St that writing this column is ever not my pleas- SE. Speaker will be Lisa Mottesheard, Account ure, but it is time-sensitive, at least on a Manager for Caption Call, of Eastern Virginia. weekly basis. And though that “weekliness” Call 703-938-9757 for more. can occasionally induce some pressure, mostly English as a Second Language Classes. 7-8 I can manage it. Besides, it contributes to p.m. at at St. Mark Christian Formation Center, what you read and my feelings about having 9972 Vale Road, Vienna. Come help 150+ adult written. As such, my columns are rarely about learners master the English language, prepare the past, well, only in so far as it gives the pre- for American citizenship, learn to converse sent and future concerns some context. fluently in English, improve their writing skills, Generally speaking however, I am writing and integrate into the local community. Call about extremely-current events. It’s not 703-980-9380, email [email protected], or visit www.stmarkesl.org. exactly real time, but the timing is exception- ally real. This sort of holiday break occurs at The THURSDAY/JAN. 11 Connection every year as we condense our English as a Second Language Classes. 7-8 publication schedule and finish/publish three p.m. at at St. Mark Christian Formation Center, weeks of newspapers in nine business days. 9972 Vale Road, Vienna. Come help 150+ adult And even though this “condensation” is noth- learners master the English language, prepare ing new for any of us long-sitting employees, it for American citizenship, learn to converse does present its own unique set of challenges, fluently in English, improve their writing skills, yet it is a schedule which has stood the test of and integrate into the local community. Call time. Time which eventually leads to pleasure. 703-980-9380, email [email protected], or And time off is part of what drives this mid- visit www.stmarkesl.org. to-late December rush. Because in the news- paper business, especially considering the THURSDAY/JAN. 18 24/7 news cycle, with which we are all famil- Caregivers Support Group. 10-11:30 a.m. at iar, even for a weekly publication – for both UUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregation of editorial and sales, you are mostly on. So get- Fairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter Mill ting a chance to publish and then pause, gives Road, Oakton. For caregivers to adult family us all an opportunity to refresh and recharge. members with dementia, meets first and third And since I’m honeymooning, so to speak, Thursdays of every month. Call 703-821-6838 of (see column dated 12/13/17 titled “As Good email [email protected] for more. As It Gets”), I have nothing particularly cancer- centric to write about and/or worry about, SUPPORT GROUPS well, top of mind anyway. There’s plenty of Are You A Caregiver? Shepherd’s Center of cancer stuff bottom of mind though. The diffi- Oakton Vienna Caregivers’ Support culty is keeping it there. Group takes place first & third Thursday of The problem/reality is, even when you’re each month. February 2nd and 16th, 2017 from meandering around in your head, in order to 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Join us at the write, there is a cancer section which inevita- Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax bly fights its way to the top. It’s not as if I have (UUCF) - Program Building, 2709 Hunter Mill a multiple personality disorder: Kenny- Rd, Oakton, VA. For more info contact without-cancer and Kenny-with-cancer (my facilitator, Jack Tarr, 703-821-6838 website, by the way: [email protected]. www.KennyWithCancer.com), but sometimes Haven of Northern Virginia Support Group. I think I must. Thinking one could totally com- 703-941-7000, www.havenofnova.org or partmentalize the facts and fissures that a “te- [email protected]. rminal” lung cancer diagnosis/”13 month to two year” prognosis imposes is an admirable, much talked about goal but in truth, it’s probably unrealistic and likely leads to that dual personality. But who’s kidding whom? It’s Assembly hard/IMPOSSIBLE to know. So for the moment, I can pretend/presume that Kenny-without-cancer is front and center, From Page 3 top of mind and in control, free to wander aimlessly in print and ponder his fate as if nothing much – other than one’s own mortal- IT MAY SEEM like the elections never ity, is effecting his judgment. Ah, one can cease in Virginia, where voters go to the dream. And oddly enough, I have been dreaming more, and sleeping longer and polls multiple times every year. And al- deeper, too. I’m sure it’s simply a coincidence though Washington is already focused on that having five weeks off from any cancer- the 2018 campaign, Richmond is already related activities/obligations, and likewise hav- preparing for an epic election in 2019. Not ing nine days off from any newspaper-related activities has contributed to this semi peace only will that election include all members and quiet. A quiet which will soon end when of the House and the Senate, it will also set we leave for two days in Pennsylvania to the scene for who controls the redistricting spend Christmas with my wife Dina’s cousins, process. Both parties are eager to control which, along with the cheesesteak I plan on as much of the process as possible, and eating, provides it’s own sort of comfort and joy. Democrats have already won a major vic- Still, any port in the cancer storm provides tory by electing a governor who will have a welcome respite from the – with apologies veto power over the maps drawn by law- to Shakespeare – slings and arrows of outra- makers. geous misfortune (Shakespeare’s quote was “fortune”), however real or imagined. To be “The one piece of this that I’m interested sure, cancer is no joke, neither is being diag- in doing is having a factor of competitive- nosed with a “terminal” form of it: non-small ness and competition being part of the equa- cell lung cancer, stage IV, at age 54 and a half. tion,” said Del. (D-35). “Right But making fun of it and the circumstances surrounding it, has been my stock and trade now all the standards that they use for re- since I first went public – in print, in June districting are things like partisanship, de- 2009. The means I’ve justified to prevent my mographics and minority status. But there’s premature end. So far, so good. nothing that talks about whether a district Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for is competitive or not.” The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 ❖ 11 12 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ January 3-9, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com