GreatGreat FallsFalls

Classifieds, Page 18 Classifieds,

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Sports, Page 17

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Adrienne Kralick demon- strates portrait painting technique of John Singer Sargent in a recent workshop. The twelve artists of Artists on the Green have been busy

Entertainment, Page 14

❖ creating collectible pieces of art for the upcoming Great Falls Holiday Fest, Saturday, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 6.

Opinion, Page 8 Artists on the Green To Host Open House News, Page 3 Sharing Season of Giving, Page 10 Creating Families with Adoption News, Page 16

Photo by Gail Péan www.ConnectionNewspapers.comNovember 25 - December 1, 2015 Great online Falls Connection at www.connectionnewspapers.com ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected] Great Falls Author Paints a Powerful Portrait

It was DaVinci’s portrait of Ginevra, Elliott Laura Elliott launches explains, which broke new ground and set the art world on its ear by depicting a her newest novel, woman looking straight ahead, her gaze direct, wearing a relatively unadorned gown ‘DaVinci’s Tiger.’ and a solid facial expression – a bold and deliberate decision that firmly established By Kristin Clark Taylor the masterful painter as a force of artistic For The Connection honesty and change. But this beautiful portrait also broke other t began about twenty years ago with new ground: In those times, women were a single question. Award-winning looked upon as talentless, voiceless, deli- Iauthor Laura Elliott says the idea for cately domestic creatures, so submissive her newest novel was first ignited that they could not even pose for a portrait when her daughter Megan, then a small girl, without assuming an indirect, silhouetted walked into the room one morning and position. asked her mother, “Did you know that the That de’ Benci posed so boldly was one only Leonardo in all of the Americas is right thing. But that she was also a high-spirited, here in Washington, D.C.?” free-thinking, highly talented poet was What came next was not a question but something else altogether. an urgent demand; a daughterly directive: Elliott describes how the beautiful de’ “We’ve got to go see it. Today.” Benci, trapped in an arranged marriage and Elliott not only listened that morning, but forced to limit her creativity to domestic she obeyed, and a few hours later they duties, fell in love with the artist as he found themselves standing in the National Photo by Mary Noble Ours painted her portrait. And although the mu- Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., totally Laura Elliott behind the portrait. tual admiration ultimately ended in heart- transfixed by the real-life vision in front of It still is. break, de ‘Benci’s story is inspirational be- them: the first portrait ever painted by this singular, seminal portrait and tells the In the novel, much of it based on real-life cause it shows how she defied convention Leonardo DaVinci. Both mother and daugh- story of the intimate, unfolding relationship events from that rich period, Elliott offers during the Renaissance. ter were mesmerized. between the master and his muse. up a vivid backdrop of Renaissance Flo- They knew that they were gazing upon Using the National Gallery as the sym- rence, complete with passion, exquisite art, THE ACCOLADES for “DaVinci’s Tiger” the only DaVinci portrait to hang in a U.S. bolic backdrop to launch her exciting new elaborate feasts, jousting, and finally, a love are already flowing in fast and strong: museum, and it took their breath away. The novel, Elliott, a long-time resident of Great that defies categorization. Elizabeth Wren, New York Times best-sell- portrait itself depicts the young and beau- Falls, recently stood before a standing- Painstakingly researched (Elliott traveled ing author of “Code Name Verity,” describes tiful Ginevra de’ Benci, the wealthy, witty room-only audience in the famed hall to to Florence twice and spent years poring the new novel as, “an exquisitely detailed daughter of a prominent Florence family discuss her work. Her daughter Megan, now over almost every last detail of Ginevra de’ story of the passionate relationship between who posed for DaVinci in his early years a 26-year-old theater artist, served as re- Benci’s life), the New York Times best-sell- artist and muse. Beautifully painted.” and who served as the masterful artist’s first searcher for the book and also fielded ques- ing author weaves a story about this Esther Eacho, an educator and avid muse. tions from the audience at the end of the ground-breaking portrait and all of the fury reader, said “Laura’s skill at bringing the event. and passion that surrounded it. subject to life is remarkable. Not only will FLASH FORWARD about twenty years, to Clearly, Elliott has come full circle — from “The portrait itself was revolutionary,” she the reader learn about DaVinci, but they will today, as mother and daughter stand again that first moment when she laid eyes on the says in a quiet voice filled with respect and better understand 15th-century life from a in the National Gallery of Art – but this time, portrait a few decades ago, to today, as the awe, “because before this, women were al- young woman’s point of view.” to discuss and celebrate the publication of best-selling author of a book on the same ways depicted by artists as bejeweled, ex- Community is important to Elliott. She Elliott’s newest novel, “DaVinci’s Tiger,” a subject. And it was not just the powerful quisite objects, always gazing out at noth- lush, historical romance which centers upon portrait that pulled her in – it was the story ing, staring off vacantly into space.” See Power, Page 6

Artists on the Green to Host Open House The twelve artists of Artists on erages from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sun- the Green have been busy creat- day, Dec. 6. Additionally, artists ing beautiful and collectible will be demonstrating their ap- pieces of art for the upcoming proach to creating their art all Great Falls Holiday Fest, Satur- weekend. AOTG is conveniently day, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 6. located across from the Farmer’s Artists on the Green, located at Market on Saturday morning and 776B Walker Road in Great Falls, is a short walk to the Christmas is known for offering a unique tree lighting ceremony at 4:30 blend of original art and that just p.m. on Sunday. right creative collectible. And, to make the holidays a little brighter, each artist is offering discounts of up to 20 percent off Kurt Schwarz their original creations. Open demonstrates both days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., still life the studio will have a festive painting in Open House with food and bev- weekly class. Photo by Gail Péan www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 3 News Great Falls to Host Holiday Fest

he Great Falls Holiday Fest, Tto be held Sat urday, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 6, will offer shopping, art, food, lights and Saint Nicholas, too! Both days, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Twenty-three Great Falls Studios member art- ists at the Grange and Old Schoolhouse, 9818 Georgetown Pike, will dis- play something for Secret Santas and serious collec- tors. Original art, prints, photography, fabric arts, pottery, sculpture, wood carvings, holiday gifts, note cards and more. Both days, noon–4 p.m. Santa will be at the Old Schoolhouse posing for pictures with girls and boys groups singing seasonal music. A petting zoo, pony and local authors will be storytelling there, too. rides and a live nativity scene. Santa and Mrs. Claus Gather for live music and dance, festive food and are scheduled to arrive by antique fire truck to begin drink at the Grange, make an ornament at the Arts the cheer when the own Christmas tree is lit! of Great Falls School, delight in art demonstrations Family friendly and free. at the Artists’ Atelier and Artists on the Green. Brought to you by Great Falls Studios, the Fairfax Wraps up Sunday, 4:30–6:30 p.m. with the 25th County Park Authority, Celebrate Great Falls and the Annual Celebration of Lights. Hot cider and cocoa to Arts of Great Falls. sip by the blazing Yule log and community choral For more information visit www.GreatFallsStudios.com.

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4 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Langley High Orchestra to Perform British Classics, Hold Silent Auction The Langley High School Or- chestra presents a concert of Brit- ish Classics on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m. Due to the renovation of the Langley HS Auditorium, the con- cert will be held at South Lakes HS, 11400 South Lakes Drive, Reston. The concert is free, and the public is invited to hear wonderful string orchestra music and participate in the Silent Auction. “British composers have written some of the best music in the world for string orchestra,” said Dr. Scott McCormick, director of Orchestra at Langley HS. The four orchestras will perform music by Gustav Holst, John Rutter, Peter Warlock, Ernest Bloch, Ralph Vaughan Will- iams, Henry Purcell, George F. Handel and Percy Fletcher. Guid- ance counselor Julie McGreevy will be contributing her refined accent and the Queen’s finest English in her role as master of ceremonies. Viewing and bidding for the Silent Auction will begin at 6:15 p.m. in the lobby. The silent auction closes at the end of intermission. Visit langleyorchestra2015.eflea.ca for details of the items available, and to bid online prior to the concert. Gift certificates are available for the fol- lowing restaurants: Amoo’s House of Kabob, Café Tatti, Café Oggi, China Express, Chop-n-Chicken, El Tio’s Tex Mex Grilll, Famous Dave’s, Founding Farmers, J. Gilbert’s, L’Auberge Chez Francois, Listrani’s, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Mookie’s BBQ, PaSa Thai, The Old Brogue, The Greek Taverna, Sea- sons 52, Social Restaurant, Star Nut Gourmet, Triny Tex Grill, and for Whole Foods. Services and products available include items from: Art and Sewing Cleaner, Astoria Laser Clinic and Med Spa, Bliss Spa and Salon, Dr. Edward Nelson DMD Pediatric Dentistry, Chain Bridge Cellars, Mesmeralda’s, Gathered Stem, Lamps Unlimited, Jeff Lubin Fine Portrait Studio, Lilly Pulitzer, Magellan Tutoring, Music Masters, Name Droppers, Newseum, Old Do- THIRSTY THURSDAY minion Animal Health Ceter, Potomac Vegetable Farms, Tiffany HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY! and Company, Washington Nation- als, Salona Jewelers, Smith’s of Ber- COME & WATCH EVERY NFL GAME EVERY SUNDAY. muda, The Preppy Pink Pony, The Kellogg Collection, and Vineyard Vines. Additional items include an original acrylic painting, two framed limited edition military ornaments, an art glass necklace, a cookbook, and two dessert trays of tiramisu. The 2015 White House Christmas ornament is also available for pur- chase at the concert. If you wish to purchase an ornament and cannot www.trinystexmexgrill.com make it to the concert, please emaill 9835 GEORGETOWN PIKE, GREAT FALLS, VA 22066 [email protected] 703-759-4000 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 5 News Power of the Muse

From Page 3 Megan, since they have been such devoted fans of her equestrian career” since she was says that it is the constant support and a little girl. encouragement of her Great Falls friends But it is Elliott’s two children who stand and family that help add depth and mean- at the very center of her heart, both of ing to her life as an author. The close, long- whom provided invaluable assistance as she standing bonds, she says, add real value to wrote the book. not only her writing life, but to her daily Her son Peter, a 21-year-old junior at life. Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles, where “One of the loveliest aspects of my talk at he has majored in screenwriting and his- the NGA was that auditorium filling with tory, “offered insights that honed charac- dear friends from the area, from my Fairfax ters and dialogue and saved me,” she says. County childhood through those who have “The greatest joy in watching all this has watched, with love and applause, my chil- been the true sharing of the experiences dren grow up in Great Falls and McLean.” with my children,” she says. “Both are cre- She was also happy that “the barn ladies” ative artists. Both traveled to Italy with me showed up – a tight-knit group of female to research. Both read the manuscript in equestrians with whom she’s been friends various stages and offered story-saving ad- for years and who nurtured her daughter vice.” Megan’s passion for horse-riding from the The tremendous power of the muse is a time she was a little girl. running theme that is woven masterfully “A large group of barn ladies from South throughout the book – in fact, even before Down, gave up an exquisite fall afternoon Elliott writes the first word. of riding to come hear me talk,” she says The muse is ever present in Elliott’s before rethinking it: “Maybe more to hear dedication writing, “For my muses, Megan and Peter.” Award-winning Author Comes Home to Celebrate New Novel On Thursday evening, Dec. 17, Great Says Daniela Dixon, manager of the Falls resident Laura Elliott will discuss Great Falls Library, a co-partner in the her newest book, “DaVinci’s Tiger,” and event, “We have known this Great Falls describe the intricate process of research- author a long time and have followed her ing and writing the book. writing with interest. Our library system “We’re thrilled to celebrate Laura’s carries all of her novels – wonderful his- wonderful new work, and to celebrate it torical fiction written for a young audi- right here in her own, beautiful backyard ence. We are looking forward to of Great Falls,” says Kristin Clark Taylor, partnering with GFWG to bring this ex- founder and facilitator of the Great Falls citing event to the Great Falls community.” Writer’s Group (GFWG). “Because her Elliott will discuss her work, perform book touches deeply on both literary and a brief reading and engage in audience artistic themes, we’re hoping that this Q & A. She’ll also be on-hand to sign her event will bring writers and visual art- books. Seating is open; an early arrival ists together under one roof. It gives us is recommended. a chance to highlight the happy fact that, “The doors to this event will be artistically, Great Falls is vibrant, visible open to the entire community,” says and very much alive – creative conver- Taylor. “Sure, we hope the artistic gence at its best!” community will come out in force, Robin Kent, president of Great Falls but we’re also eager for the commu- Studios, agrees: “We are especially ex- nity at large to help us celebrate our cited about the opportunity for our mem- local literary hero.” bers and the community of Great Falls to participate in an event that brings to- ❖ Laura Elliott, author of the new novel, gether two major creative media – writ- “DaVinci’s Tiger,” will participate in discus- sion, reading and book signing on Thursday, ing and the visual arts,” he says. Dec. 17. Reception (optional) begins at 6:30 The event organizers also hope to p.m. Discussion begins promptly at 7:30 at widen their embrace by welcoming not the Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown just the artists, but the entire Great Pike. Open seating; event is free. Early arrival is recommended. Falls community.

Bulletin Board To have community events listed in the Connection, send to [email protected]. The deadline for submis- TUESDAY/DEC. 1 sions is the Friday prior to publication. Successful Transitions. 8:30-10 a.m. Brightview, 10200 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Join Gerontologist and our Wellspring Village Gallows Road, Dunn Loring. FCPS IEP Specialist, Director, Mikki Firor, for an interactive Andrew Guillen, from the Office of Special discussion on understanding the fundamental Education Procedural Support will discuss aspects of dementia as well as signs, stages and answers to the most frequently asked questions supports. RSVP early. about IEPs. Free. Register at http:// www.BrightviewGreatFalls.com. 703-759-2513. www.fcps.edu/dss/osp/prc/.index.shtml. All About IEPs - Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About IEPs. 7-8:30 p.m. See Bulletin, Page 9 6 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Quiet Riot: ‘C’mon Feel the Noise’ County passes new noise ordinance, will revisit effectiveness in 18 months.

By Ken Moore ment in their homes at night. The Connection More than 30 speakers testified at a pub- lic hearing last May on the noise ordinance. he Board of Supervisors is at “When babies cannot sleep, when the eld- peace with the county’s new erly cannot rest, when a voice teacher can- TNoise Ordinance. not instruct, when a family cannot share a “Believe it or not, that passes,” meal together on their patio, when a ho- said Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon meowner has to close her windows and Bulova. move to another part of the house just to On the Nov. 17 meeting of the Board of make a telephone call, when a cancer pa- Supervisors, the Board adopted a new Noise tient cannot recuperate and rest in her yard Ordinance. The new ordinance becomes because music is amplified in the neighbor- effective on Feb. 17, 2016. hood at intrusive levels, then we know “There were times during this process that something is not right with life in Fairfax I thought we would never get to this point. County,” said Joyce Harris of McLean. Let me tell you, there are competing needs, Sheila Casey, of Reston, said she can hear issues all over the place as to what is too mowers on a nearby golf course before noisy, what is not noisy, about what is dawn with maintenance crews sometimes needed and what is not,” she said. using headlights on lawnmowers before 5 In June, the Board had deferred action a.m. “All I know is when those lawn mow- on the proposed changes to the county’s ers are running, I can turn on my air condi- noise ordinance in June until Nov. 17. tioning, I can put in my earplugs, and I still “It was a very productive evolution hear the noise,” she said. through five cycles of revisions,” said Su- Other speakers included: Greg Budnik pervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville). “We who discussed helicopter noise from train- negotiated this thing for so long.” ing runs at Fort Belvoir; Mark Grove of “We’re not totally where I want to be, but Fairfax whose wife was recuperating from this is a significantly improved product and cancer treatment and had to contend with something I can vote for,” he said. music from a supermarket across the street Supervisor Michael Frey (R-Sully) spear- that had permits to play music until 11 p.m.; headed the Board’s efforts and thanked Keith Elgin, worship director of Vine Church county staff. “They’ve managed to grasp the in Dunn Loring, who wants to create events things we were trying to codify,” said Frey. such as outdoor movies and concerts dur- The Board delayed the effective date of ing the summer months; to neighbors in implementation of the new ordinance to Reston who say they can not get relief from February in order to provide time for staff noise of nearby dog parks; to those who take training, to update County websites, and to their dogs to dog parks to spare neighbors assist staff in understanding the new regu- from noise. lations, according to county documents. The Board will revisit the impact of the AMPLIFIED MUSIC from loudspeakers at noise ordinance and its effectiveness in 18 schools during athletic practices and pre- months to determine what might need to game festivities took center stage. be tweaked for the long run. Fairfax County Public Schools will replace “I’m not happy with everything that is in loudspeakers at McLean High School with here, but at this point I’m prepared to sup- regulators to ensure that they are properly port it, but appreciate that we can revisit calibrated. it,” said Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Spring- The school system is finalizing regulatory field). guidelines so athletic directors know exactly Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee District) what needs to be done to keep harmony says the outcome makes the ordinance with neighborhoods in proximity with the much easier to enforce. schools. “This turned into something entirely dif- “That’s a big deal, and let’s make sure ferent from where it started. I also agree when that agreement is formally adopted that this wasn’t intended to address every that we keep it with our noise ordinance,” noise issue,” said McKay, “but at the end of said Bulova. the day it makes for better enforcement and Other topics of major concern addressed makes it a lot more clear which made the dog parks, trash pickups from commercial noise ordinance difficult to enforce.” shopping centers next to neighborhoods, and lawn maintenance. OVERALL GOALS of the proposed Noise Fairfax and other Virginia governments Ordinance is to recognize that there will had to rewrite their noise ordinance as a always be certain levels of noise that occur result of a Virginia Supreme Court decision in the normal course of daily living; to al- overturning the ordinance in Virginia Beach, low certain levels of daytime noise so that according to county documents. people can live, work and play during the For more, see http:// day; and to minimize noise at night so resi- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpz/zoning/ dents have an appropriate quiet environ- noiseordinance/ www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 7 3 Opinion Great Falls

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An independent, locally owned weekly Celebrate, Shop, Dine Locally newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Published by Shop Small. This year that day is Nov. 28. Local Media Connection LLC Every day can be Locally owned retail shops, services, restau- Children’s Connection 1606 King Street rants depend on vibrant local communities to During the last week of each year, The Connec- Alexandria, Virginia 22314 “small business day.” thrive, and communities depend on those busi- tion devotes its entire issue to the creativity of local Free digital edition delivered to nesses as well. Most small, locally owned busi- students and children. It is a keepsake edition for your email box. Go to here is a joy to participating in com nesses invest in community, helping to trans- many families. The annual Children’s Connection connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe munity traditions and celebrations form our towns and communities with a sense is a tradition of well over a decade. during the holidays, from walking of place. We publish artwork, poetry, essays, creative writ- NEWS DEPARTMENT: T [email protected] along a sidewalk with the streets Frequently, it is the small retail person who ing, opinion pieces, short stories, photography, pho- decked out for the holidays, to shopping in is active in fundraising for local charities, ad- tos of sculpture or gardens or other creative efforts. Kemal Kurspahic local stores, to being greeted by someone likely vocating for improvements, for fire and res- We ask that all submissions be digital so they can Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 to be the owner of the store, to finding gifts cue service, for local schools and in organiz- be sent through email or delivered on CD or flash [email protected] that are not mass-produced. ing holiday events. drive. Writing should be submitted in rich text for- Amna Rehmatulla One way to be sure holiday shopping comes Local retail stores, mom-and-pop stores, face mat (.rtf). Artwork should be photographed or Editorial Assistant 703-778-9410 ext.427 with some holiday spirit is to do a portion of tough challenges right now. Competition from scanned and provided in jpeg format. [email protected] your shopping in some of the area’s locally big box stores and online sellers makes the We welcome contributions from public and pri- Ken Moore owned stores. There is special holiday holiday shopping season all the more vate schools, individuals and homeschoolers. To be Community Reporter ambiance available by shopping in the Editorial important to locally owned retailers. published, we must have first and last name of the 240-393-2448 heart of a town that is decked out for But local families will literally spend student. Please include the student’s age and/or [email protected] the season. Small retail shops are part millions of dollars to shop and ex- grade, school attended and town of residence. Jon Roetman of defining any community. Their livelihood change gifts during the next month in a vari- Identify each piece of writing or art, including Sports Editor ❖ 703-752-4013 [email protected] depends on the livability and quality of the ety of places. the student’s full name, age, grade and town of resi- @jonroetman neighborhoods around them. A small business Everyone will do some of their shopping at dence, plus the name of the school, name of teacher owner pays attention to every detail in his or the mall. Everyone will shop online. Many will and town of school location. Please provide sub- ADVERTISING: her business in a way that is otherwise un- answer the call of the big box. But local shop- missions by Friday, Dec. 4. For advertising information matched. pers should be sure to do some celebrating, Email submissions for the Children’s Connection [email protected] We all benefit when local stores thrive, when shopping and dining locally. We promise it to [email protected]. 703-778-9431 local business districts beckon. An effort to brings more joy. Subject line should be school name, town and Salome Howard-Gaibler support locally owned businesses has resulted teacher's last name (e.g. Westgate ES, McLean, Display Advertising 703-778-9421 in the recognition of Small Business Saturday, — Mary Kimm Card). [email protected] the Saturday after Thanksgiving, also called [email protected] Andrea Smith Classified Advertising 703-778-9411 [email protected] The Challenge of Ending Homelessness Debbie Funk National Sales 703-778-9444 By Margi Preston Commentary Prevention and Response Program. Through a [email protected] Executive Director partnership with over 40 faith communities, FACETS David Griffin country to reduce homelessness. It involves this program enables FACETS to offer refuge Marketing Assistant helping households move into housing as from the bitter cold to over 200 individuals in 703-778-9431 ometimes it takes a challenge to make quickly as possible after they enter the shelter our community who are homeless each year. [email protected] progress. That’s what happened here in system. Families and individuals are housed The success of the Fairfax Housing Challenge S Editor & Publisher Fairfax when leaders of six nonprofits in market-rate apartments or houses in the has inspired us to remain motivated in help- Mary Kimm serving those who are homeless decided to community, and receive rental subsidies and/ ing even more people come in from the cold [email protected] push themselves to do more. or services that are tailored to their specific this winter and ideally keep more from ever @MaryKimm With the second largest homeless population needs, including a caseworker to help ease the having to experience the cold at all. We are up Executive Vice President in the region, homelessness is a real problem transition. for the challenge … and I know our commu- Jerry Vernon in the Fairfax County-Falls Church community. Our housing challenge showed the real ben- nity partners are too. That’s a win for the whole [email protected] A majority of the people who are homeless are efits of collaboration. Together we set and met community. To learn more, visit us at Editor in Chief in working families with children. Throughout quarterly ambitious goals to find homes for www.FacetsCares.org. Steven Mauren Managing Editor the year, FACETS works in partnership with even more people who were unstably housed Kemal Kurspahic Fairfax’s Office to Prevent and End and homeless. We brainstormed and found new Letters to the Editor Photography: Homelessness and other nonprofits to bring our ways to get people out of homelessness and Deb Cobb, Craig Sterbutzel Entering Into the Arena Art/Design: community closer to a day when no one is into safe and secure housing. And it worked. Laurence Foong, John Heinly homeless through a variety of effective pro- At the end of the challenge, nearly 500 single To the Editor: Production Manager: grams. And in the summer of 2014, we decided adults and more than 220 families now have a Theodore Roosevelt once said that the credit Geovani Flores to do even more by teaming up with five other home of their own and services to help them belongs to those who are in the arena. Craig Special Assistant to the Publisher local nonprofits to motivate ourselves to reach remain housed. Parisot should be commended for stepping into Jeanne Theismann [email protected] new records in moving people from As important as it is to get people into hous- the arena in what he knew would be a tough @TheismannMedia homelessness to housing. ing right away so they can start the transition fight. Northern Virginia is becoming increasingly Our power team — FACETS, New Hope back to a stable life, we all recognize that pre- polarized and competitive and, as a result, the CIRCULATION: 703-778-9426 Housing, Cornerstones, Shelter House, NVFS venting homelessness is the top priority. Like cost, both financially and personally, of running [email protected] and Volunteers of America-Chesapeake — our nonprofit partners, FACETS relies on help for office here is exorbitant. Respected incum- kicked off a year-long Fairfax County Housing from volunteers and partnerships with the faith bents declined to run for reelection this year, Challenge. The challenge was modeled after and business communities to prevent no doubt in part because of this strain. Craig the successful Rapid Rehousing Challenge, homelessness throughout Fairfax County by knew what he was walking into, but he did it which was organized by the National Alliance offering a full spectrum of services, such as anyway out of a desire to serve his community. to End Homelessness to motivate nonprofits basic needs and financial assistance, career Thank you Craig Parisot for entering into the statewide to rapidly re-house as many fami- counseling and outreach, educational enrich- arena. I hope you are not done fighting. lies as possible within 100 days. ment programs, and permanent housing. Rapid re-housing is a proven and cost-effec- With the cold temperatures approaching, we Priscilla M. Griffith tive strategy used by communities across the have begun to gear up for our Hypothermia McLean

8 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters

Women Inspiring Women in Sports To the Editor: placed by a male coach. The Title 9 act made After seeing the article, “Area Coaches to it so that there needs to be an equal num- be Honored for Work Empowering Girls,” I ber of male and female athletes at a school. could not help but think how great it is to Because of this more male teams are being see women inspiring women in sports. I cut to equal the number of female teams. think female coaches have a huge impact As the male teams are cut their male on the girls they coach because the young coaches move over to the female team. girls can so easily relate to them. I remem- There has been a huge decrease in the num- ber being in elementary school and feeling ber of female coaches. In 1972, 90 percent anxiety or nervous every time I had to par- of female teams had female coaches but in ticipate in the mile or any other physical 2008 only 43 percent had female coaches. fitness test. Once I started soccer, basket- To see that there are still female coaches ball and dance, my female coaches helped in my community encouraging and inspir- me conquer my fears of not only being shy ing young girls is a great and heart-warm- but playing sports in general. My confidence ing thing to see. definitely grew because of them. We see more and more that female Mary Hagen Grow coaches are disappearing and being re- Great Falls

Bulletin Board

From Page 6 Please bring your child and come tour the school. www.childrensacademy.com. 703-734- Handling the Holidays. 5-7 p.m. Long and 2353. Foster, 1355 Beverly Road, Suite 300, Cafe 3, McLean. The Women’s Center of Vienna identify common holiday stressors. Learn to cope with TUESDAY/DEC. 8 holiday-related emotions. Understand how to Rotary Club Meeting. Noon-1:15 p.m. create expectations for your holidays that can Fellowship Hall of the Lutheran Church of the become a reality. Free. 703-903-8643. Redeemer, 1545 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Carrie Hessler-Radelet, director of the Peace Corps, will address the club at its meeting on THURSDAY/DEC. 3 Tuesday, December 8, 2015. Hessler-Radelet McLean Children’s Academy Registration will speak briefly about the history of the Peace Open House. 9:45-11:30 a.m. 6900 Elm St., Corps and more extensively about the Peace McLean. This is for registration for 2015/16 Corps current activities. Free. School Year as well as for next Fall, 2016/17. www.mcleanrotary.org.

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 9 Season of Giving Get Involved Businesses, organizations and individuals can become community partners by adopting a family, donating items such as laundry and dishwasher

Photos contributed detergent, toothbrushes, restaurant gift cards, or by making a donation. Contact Chris Wilbur at [email protected] Sharing to sponsor a client or family. and Child’s Play Toys generously helps Santa fulfill his extensive toy list. Share of McLean continues to meet Giant Food has a wish tree and toiletries drive and provides around 350 reusable bags challenges faced by 250 families in need in Share of McLean was organized in 1969 to help with for Thanksgiving and the Celebration. Share of McLean prepares for its annual Holiday emergency needs of families of McLean, Great Falls Trinity United Methodist and St. Thomas McLean and Great Falls and Pimmit Hills. celebration. and Pimmit Hills. Episcopal have angel trees. Rodef Shalom collected Thanksgiving gro- By Ken Moore Waldow has lived in McLean for five years. furbished computers and school supplies. card is impersonal, but for our clients hav- like that.” cery gift cards. The Connection “It never occurred to me that there are so Share is an all-volunteer organization, so ing choices to pick toys for their children McLean Baptist provides grocery cards for many families struggling to make ends meet. they are able to say that 100 percent of do- and a pair of pants for them, that’s part of SHARE hosts a party, which will be held Thanksgiving and various gift cards for the hare of McLean raises $50,000 this It was surprising to see the other side of the nations go to the direct benefit of their cli- the gift,” said Wilbur. Dec. 12 this year. One volunteer plays the holiday celebration. holiday season to give clothing, toys coin. All of my other volunteer work in ents. “If someone needs bedding, they can ask piano for four hours throughout the party; New Dominion Women’s Club fulfills Sand gift cards to approximately 250 McLean has been fundraising, and our com- Food Pantry and Clothing Rooms are for the appropriate size and a favorite color. a Santa and Mrs. Claus cheer children while wishes and bakes cookies for the celebra- families in need in McLean, Great munity is very generous. I think a lot of open Wednesday and Saturdays from 9:30 A single mom can ask for gift cards for her a volunteer photographer takes photos for tion. Falls and Pimmit Hills. Families are invited people are simply unaware of this huge need a.m. to noon in donated space at the McLean children and then she can select gifts for her moms and dads to cherish. First Baptist donates gifts cards for the to a holiday celebration in December. in our midst.” Baptist Church, 1367 Chain Bridge Rd. children that she knows they will love. Many “People love to volunteer at the holiday holidays. “I can not think of a better way to spend “Many people don’t realize that in one of elderly people just ask for grocery gift cards celebration,” said Wilbur. “You start out with Immanuel Presbyterian donates gift cards the holidays than to spend all the months to the wealthier communities in the United AROUND OCTOBER, Share of McLean because they don’t need stuff, they just need an empty gym and in the course of two days, for the holidays prepare this program and then see the cli- States, we have so many needy people right shifts into high gear for the holidays. a little help making ends meet with their it gets completely decorated. We have ladies Langley High School Key club fulfills ents at the party, old ladies dancing, chil- here,” said Wilbur. “We definitely have volunteers that come food budget,” according to Wilbur. that make the centerpieces, we have a man wishes for teens. dren opening gifts,” said Chris Wilbur, the back year after year. Starting in October, we The holiday program team needs to raise who plays the piano for four hours without McLean High School Leadership provides holiday program chair of Share of McLean. SINCE 1969, Share of McLean has pro- get emails saying, ‘Remember me?’” said about $50,000 yearly in donations, as well a break. It’s amazing.” homeless kits. “To me, that’s the true spirit of the holi- vided emergency assistance to the less for- Wilbur. “For everybody involved, it just as procure assorted gift items. And much of the community gets involved. McLean Crew Club has a gift card drive at days,” she said. tunate in McLean and Pimmit Hills and Great makes Christmas a little brighter.” Victor Kimm, of McLean, remembers the Just for instance: the MHS holiday bazaar. More than 50 volunteers serve around 640 Falls. Share clients turn in holiday wish lists in end of one party when Share volunteers Franklin Sherman Elementary School has Many scout troops volunteer and hold individuals in need who live in McLean, Programs include family emergency finan- October, and Share passes the wishes to the were approached by a woman who said her a yearly mitten tree. drives to collect baby items or toiletry drives. Great Falls and Pimmit Hills areas. cial assistance; distribution of food and used faith communities, schools, local businesses husband was dying. All she wanted was to Haycock Elementary classes adopt fami- Rotary Club is providing most of the food “I love talking to the kids and hearing what clothing; recycled furniture; and transpor- and generous individuals. be able to stay in her house to honor her lies. for the celebration as well as volunteers. they are doing in school, what sports they play, tation services for seniors. Many wish for gift cards and grocery gift husband’s request. “She said the help we Each year, businesses, such as McEnearney McLean Preschool gathers baby items for and what character they dressed up as for Share also provides clients with grocery cards. gave her enabled them to stay in their Associates Realtors, adopt families for both Share’s tiniest clients. Halloween,” said Lisa Waldow, a volunteer. gift cards and gifts during the holidays, re- “For some people, they think giving a gift home,” he said. “Every year, we hear stories Thanksgiving and the December holidays, See www.shareofmclean.org.

Share Programs: By the Numbers taining about 2709 family members. During these 3 activities, Share of McLean works closely with Fairfax Share and its Family PASS program supports three 1,000 County’s Coordinated Services program. families previously referred by us to Family PASS, About 1,000 volunteer hours per month are needed which support families in need of in-depth assis- to maintain programs, so Share of McLean is constantly $389,200 tance with family counseling, housing stabilization, recruiting new volunteers. Share is an all-volunteer or- The Food and Clothing Programs, operated in do- budgeting and job training. In conjunction with ganization with no paid employees, no office and no nated space at the McLean Baptist Church, provided these referrals to Family PASS, Share provides ad- paid fundraisers. Operations are run by about 35 core households in need with about $389,200 of “food- junct monetary support to Family PASS. volunteers and another 200 occasional volunteers. stuff.” During the year, Share provided 11,120 bags See www.shareofmclean.org. of groceries and 3,200 bags of clothing to clients. 150 About 174 families visited the food pantry and used Computers and 40 printers have been refurbished 1969 clothing room each month. in Share’s Refurbished Computers program to give Share of McLean was established as a non-profit to families with with school-aged children. corporation in 1969 by a coalition of McLean faith 2,000 communities to meet the emergency needs of the poor Pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables were distrib- 365 in McLean, Pimmit Hills and nearby areas of north- uted from mid May to early October through Share’s Share conducts year-round food drives through ern Virginia. It now serves Great Falls families in need. Fresh Produce program because of efforts at a combi- local schools, religious communities, local busi- Share receives no government funding and is depen- nation of community gardens at Lewinsville Park, six nesses, service organizations, and the local Post Of- dent solely on the generosity of private donors. faith-based community gardens in McLean, and local fices through which individuals provide virtually all gleaning at area farms. Share joins the efforts of Fairfax of the non-perishable foodstuffs for distribution 1,500 County to improve the nutritional substance of food through our food room to eligible client families. Share served 1,500 households and 4,030 family donations distributed through facilities located within More than 300 volunteers signed up to organize, members in some capacity during the 2015 fiscal year. the county to families in need. Share also procured conduct, and process these food drives for Share. Clients are best described as the working poor and fresh produce and frozen meat from the Capitol Area include economically distressed families and individu- Food Bank to supplement supplies for food room. 2,700 als, seniors living on limited pensions who are often Pounds of bread and pastries from participating facing medical problems, impoverished immigrants, 297 supermarkets were delivered to the food room, lo- recently homeless folks and victims of spousal abuse. The Furniture Exchange program made 297 de- cal shelters and other charitable organizations liveries of furniture last year to more than 250 through Share’s Baked Goods program. 995 households. The beneficiaries of the furniture ex- The Family Assistance program with Share’s crisis change are indigent even though many of them have $7,500 intervention program pays bills to cover short-term jobs, disabled, formerly homeless or victims of spou- The School Supplies program provided approxi- needs such as rent payments to avoid evictions, utili- sal abuse. Share owns two trucks with which vol- mately $7,500 of new school supplies to meet the ties payments to ward off service terminations and unteers pick up usable furniture from donors and classroom and school specific supply lists for 124 prescription drug emergencies. Share responded to deliver it to individuals and families who cannot students including calculators for local middle more than 995 calls for assistance and provided afford to buy furniture. Nearly all of them are re- school students whose families could not otherwise $144,776 of financial assistance to households, con- ferred to by county social workers and nonprofits. meet these important needs.

10 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 11 News

Photos contributed

Jerry Peters cautions on the dangers of ignoring the deer population - auto acci- Farmers market shoppers enjoy venison dents, threat to the forest, crops, foliage, cuisine as they learn about deer manage- etc. ment strategies. Deer Return to Great Falls Backyards tion of deer meat by Green Fire, and the permission Deer management to prepare the venison dishes at the Great Falls Meth- odist Church’s nonprofit inspected kitchen, Julio education event held Gomez, Triny’s chef, was able to prepare three veni- son dishes off site for the event. Those who visited Nov. 21 at the Great the market were able to taste venison enchiladas, venison soup and venison fillet mignon, referred to Falls Farmers Market. as carne asado. The enchiladas were gone quickly, and all pots were empty by the end of the market. By Kathleen Murphy Lilia Dubynin provided support and assistance to Great Falls Farmers Market Manager accomplish the challenging workload in record time.

eer bucks are out, antlers and all, mark- TRINY’S TEX-MEX GRILL – A NEW GREAT ing the launch of mating season. The FALLS RESTAURANT Dspring crop of fawns have just lost their Four brothers and their families came to the U.S. spots, meaning that they are now from El Salvador without a penny 35 years ago. They weaned and on their own. Typi- began their first Tex-Mex busi- cally, they go into their first heat ness in Texas. It is still operat- Photo contributed in the month of November and ing today. Porfirio Mejia, Ryan Laughrey are ready to deliver a fawn next owner of Triny’s, is the oldest April. They stick close to the of seven children in a close- place where they are born, so knit family. Ryan Laughrey Becomes if they were born in your back- Porfirio did not choose to yard, they, their offspring, and locate his restaurant in Great Eagle Scout generations to come, are likely Falls. Great Falls chose Porfirio Boy Scout Troop 673, spon- pervised the building and in- to be hanging out or hiding and his wife Triny - short for sored by the Great Falls United stallation of shelves and a fire- close by. It is also notable that Trinidad. A real estate agent Methodist Men, recently pro- place screen in the playroom hunting season has just begun. called Porfirio to come see a moted a new Eagle Scout, Ryan and the office at the Alternative commercial space that just Laughrey, on Nov. 12. Ryan is House, a home for abused and A WAY TO CULL THE came on the market in Great the 123rd Eagle Scout from homeless youth, in Dunn HERD Falls. The current location is a Troop 673. Loring. Wall-mounted shelves Jerry Peters, owner of Green dream come true, a true bless- Ryan, son of Colonel James allow the staff and residents to Fire, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ing. The family loves the place and Loretta Laughrey, joined store toys, books, binders, and worked for the Fairfax County and they thank God everyday Troop 673 in 2012 after trans- office supplies neatly and free Park Authority for most of his for the blessing of connecting ferring from Troop 173 in up floor space. In phase 1 of the career before retiring. Indig- them with this space – ever Carlisle, Pa. Ryan quickly project, Ryan and troop Scouts nant about the loss of the for- mindful of the blessing they emerged as a leader and served painted the shelves at an offsite est understory in the forest in Doreen Peters, wife of Jerry have received. as a Patrol Leader, Assistant location. In phase 2, Ryan, his his own backyard as well as Peters, pitches in to help serve Triny — Porfirio’s wife for Senior Patrol Leader, Quarter- family, and troop Scouts in- throughout the local parks and the venison soup as Porfirio whom the Great Falls restau- master and Instructor. While stalled the shelves. neighbors’ backyards, Peters Mejia, owner of Triny’s, tastes rant is named — is in the res- serving in these positions, he Ryan is a senior at Marshall launched Green Fire, to take the enchilada prepared by Julio taurant every morning, super- was accepted into the Order of High School and has been ac- constructive action against the Gomez (in the background), vising the preparation of the the Arrow, Scouting’s National tive on the Robotics Team. He uncontrolled proliferation of while Porfirio’s niece looks on. homemade cuisine. Everything Honor Society, and earned 30 has also received numerous deer throughout Great Falls. He Venison enchiladas, fillet asado, – including chips and salsa – merit badges. Ryan was the awards including Aerospace has set up an archery team and and soup were kept hot on the are made fresh daily. The fam- only senior Scout who stepped Science Student of the Year, a contractual network in which barbecue stove behind. ily business consists of four up to lead the younger Scouts Fairfax County Public Schools neighbors can work together to brothers in business together. on their own version of a High (FCPS) Regional Science Fair cull the herd to sustainable levels. Visit Porfirio’s son and daughter-in-law are in the busi- Adventure in August 2013, 2nd Place, and the FCPS Sci- www.greenfireweb.com for detailed information ness, as well as Celso, his nephew, who is the man- leading a crew of a half-dozen ence Fair Rodger H. Flagg Me- about options. ager. Nine family members work together to operate rising sixth and seventh grad- morial Award for Innovation. the restaurant. El Tio Restaurant in McLean is owned ers on the Hike Across Mary- Ryan played soccer with the PA A TASTE OF VENISON BY TRINY CHEF and run by Porfirio’s brother. land – hiking for over 40 miles South Middleton Soccer Asso- Triny’s participated in the Deer Management event The family is so happy to be in Great Falls and in five days along the Appala- ciation (U13-U17) and the sponsored by Green Fire at the Great Falls Farmers wants to do their best to prepare good food for the chian Trail and performing a Northern Virginia Suburban Market last Saturday. Since deer is considered wild Great Falls community. They believe that when each service project along the way. Friendship League (U19) and game, it could not be brought to a restaurant estab- family member does their job well, the entire family For his Eagle Project, Ryan su- has worked as a soccer referee. lishment to be prepared or sold. Thanks to the dona- can benefit and thrive.

12 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

Front row: Anna Shep- herd, Audrey Kim, Our Lady of Good Counsel presents… Sophie Luraschi. Middle Row: Molly Buckler, Sam Brascia, Haley Richardson, Courtney Brandt. Back Holly & Ivy Row: Allie Brascia, A CHRISTMAS MARKETPLACE Anna Brascia, Hannah Richardson, Victoria Saturday, Dec. 5, 10-5 Stark, Bella Shapiro, Sunday, Dec. 6, 9-3 Mari Gardiner. Not pictured: Clara Nickles, Lorin Costley, Reece Herberg

Photo contributed Great Falls Cheetahs Capture Third Straight ODSL Championship The GFSC ‘00 Cheetahs, a U15 girls travel soccer during their streak of championships that the Chee- team based in Great Falls, recently capped off an tahs finished with an unbeaten regular season record, Home Décor & Christmas Gifts unbeaten season by winning the U16 Old Dominion posting a combined record of 19-2-3 over the last Fine Stationery, Jewelry, Ornaments Soccer League championship, their third consecutive three seasons. Childrens’ Books & Accessories ODSL title. The Cheetahs, made up almost equally The Cheetahs are also two time winners of the Gifts for Baby… and much more! of U14 and U15 players, competed in the ODSL U16 Randy Rawls Sportsmanship Award, given to the Division and posted an 8-0 record in league play. ODSL team that exhibits the best sportsmanship and Used Book Sale! Including tournament play, the Cheetahs finished 11- sense of fair play. The Cheetahs are led by head coach Our Lady of Good Counsel Church 1 during the fall season, scoring 35 goals while giv- Philip Nickles, assistant coaches Bill Luraschi and 8601 Wolftrap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 ing up 11, and finished second in the Diadora Bryan Richardson, and team manager Tiffany Kim, 703.896.7424 • [email protected] America Cup tournament. This is the second time and are trained by Nick MacLean.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 13 Calendar

Send announcements to north@ connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Friday for the following week’s paper. Photos/artwork encouraged. “A Christmas Carol” with a kid- ONGOING friendly twist ”Harvey.” Check for show times. Nov. comes to The 12-Dec. 20. 1st Stage, 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons Corner. Winner of Alden in McLean the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, this for a two-show beloved classic is a treat for the performance on whole family. Veta Simmons and her daughter Myrtle Mae have just Saturday, Dec. 12. moved back into town and are making quite a splash on the social scene. Gatherings and engagements abound as Myrtle Mae peruses for a viable suitor. $15-$30. www.1ststagetysons.org. 703-854- 1856. Meadowlark Gardens’ Winter Walk of Lights. Nov. 14-Jan. 4. A half-a-million colorful LED lights span the lakeside and gardens of Spring Hill RECenter, 1239 Spring Meadowlark Botanical Gardens off Hill Road, McLean. Featuring FRIDAY-SATURDAY/DEC. 4-5 Beulah Road in nostalgic and original, handmade craft and artwork Annual Renaissance Feaste. 7 p.m. fairytale scenes of the holiday season. of approximately 80 local artists and Capital Church, 10233 Leesburg Pike, http://winterwalkoflights.com/. artisans. $5. www.nvhg.org. Vienna. Journey back to Merrie Olde England for a festive evening of Renaissance-style dining and musical WEDNESDAY/NOV. 25 SUNDAY/NOV. 29 entertainment. Enter the Greate Halle 7th Annual Pre-Thanksgiving Wine Breakfast with Santa. 9 a.m., 10 for a spectacular holiday celebration Tasting Extravaganza. Noon-6 a.m., noon. Wildfire, Tysons Galleria, featuring costumed servers, jesters, p.m. The Vineyard, 1445 Laughlin 2001 International Drive, McLean. minstrels, musicians and the Langley Ave., McLean. Pouring 25-30 perfect Chilli, morning show co-host on 97.1 Madrigals. Reservations required. Go wines for Thanksgiving dinner and WASH-FM at iHeartMedia, will be to http://www.langleychorus.com/ the rest of the holiday season. Special Wildfire’s special guest host for the monthly-calendar/ to find out how to discounts on all the wines being event. In addition, children will get reserve your spot. tasted, as well as special prizes to visit with Santa and receive a throughout the day. Free. special gift bag. $15 for children www.thevineyardva.com. 703-288- under 12, $20 for adults. Reserve at SATURDAY/DEC. 5 2970. 703-442-9110. Holiday Open House. 1-4 p.m. Nature Night. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Brightview, 10200 Colvin Run Road, Meadowlark, 9750 Meadowlark Great Falls. Join the Brightview Great Gardens Court, Vienna. Visit with the THURSDAY/DEC. 3 Falls community in ringing in the naturalist and his reptile and Holiday Homes Tour. 10 a.m. - 3 Winter Season! Enjoy the amphibian friends. http:// p.m. Lewinsville Road, McLean. The decorations, music, refreshments and winterwalkoflights.com. 703-255- four homes are all large, elegant good cheer. 3631. houses on half- to one-acre lots and Christmas Bazaar. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. are easily accessible from Lewinsville Epiphany United Methodist Church, Road and other local arteries. Each 1014 Country Club Lane, Vienna. THURSDAY/NOV. 26 house will be decorated with the Handmade Wreaths, See’s Candy, Visit These Houses of Worship Wildfire Thanksgiving. 10:30 a.m.- holidays in mind and will highlight silent auction and more. 703-938- 8:30 p.m. Wildfire, Third floor, family life in McLean. 3494. www.epiphany.com. Tysons Galleria, 2001 International www.mcleanwc.org. Artist’s Reception, Public Welcoming, Diverse, Progressive Drive, McLean. A special family style Face Painting. 5:30-9 p.m. Welcome. 3-6 p.m. Great Falls menu featuring spit roasted turkey Meadowlark, 9750 Meadowlark Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, ST. ANNE’S and all the traditional Thanksgiving Gardens Court, Vienna. Children will Great Falls. Former Corcoran docent dishes. $45.95 per person, $19.95 for enjoy festive snowflakes, snowmen Ralph Dashner describes the EPISCOPAL children 12 and under. Portion of the and other holiday face painting printmaking techniques that led to CHURCH • Reston day’s proceeds will be donated to images. Free. http:// his 23-piece exhibit, “Truth and Food for Others. 703-442-9110. 7:45 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite I winterwalkoflights.com. 703-255- Beauty: Fine Art Prints in the Digital www.wildfirerestaurant.com/mclean. 3631. Age.” The exhibit will be on display 9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II Annual Champagne Tasting. 7:30-9 through December. Free. Sunday School: preschool - grade 2 p.m. The Vineyard, 1445 Laughlin [email protected]. Music: grades 3 - 7 FRIDAY/NOV. 27 Ave., McLean. As always, there will 10:25 a.m. Sunday School Grades 3 to 6 John Eaton. 8 p.m. The Barns, Wolf be over 20 of our favorite sparkling Music 4 years to 2nd grade Trap, 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. Join wine and Champagnes available to SATURDAY-SUNDAY/DEC. 5-6 11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II renowned pianist and vocalist, John try so you can find the perfect bottle Great Falls HolidayFest. 10 a.m.-5 5:00 p.m. Come Just as You Are Contemporary Service Eaton, as he interprets the Great for your New Year’s celebration. $30. p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Nursery care provided at 9:00 a.m. service American Songbook. Eaton is one of RSVP at 703-288-2970 or Great Falls Grange and the Old the flagship artists of the Wolf Trap [email protected]. Schoolhouse, 9818 Georgetown Pike, The Rev. James Papile, Rector Recording label and he has released Great Falls. Shopping, art, food, The Rev. Laura Cochran eight albums to date that include the lights, crafts. Noon-4 p.m. Santa will 703-437-6530 music of Richard Rodgers, Ray THURSDAY-SATURDAY/DEC. 3-5 be at the Old Schoolhouse for www.stannes-reston.org Charles, the Beatles, and Cole Porter. ”She Kills Monsters.” 7:30 p.m. pictures. On Sunday, 4:30-6:30 p.m. 1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston Tickets: $25-$27. For more McLean High School, 1633 Davidson will be the Celebration of Lights, information, visit http:// Road, McLean. TheatreMcLean, the which will have hot cider and cocoa, www.wolftrap.org/ or call 703-255- recently renamed award-winning Yule log, choral groups, petting zoo, 1900. theatre department at McLean High pony rides, live nativity scene and the School, launches its new season by arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF VIENNA entering into the fantasy role playing antique fire truck. Town Christmas SATURDAY/NOV. 28 realm of Qui Nguyen’s “She Kills tree will be lit. Free. 450 ORCHARD STREET, NW CR Dance for Everyone. 6:30-11:30 Monsters.” This show marks the first www.GreatFallsStudios.com. p.m. Colvin Run Community Hall, production directed by new theatre VIENNA, VA 22180 10201 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. faculty members Chip Rome and 703-938-8525 DJ Music mix of contemporary and Phillip Reid. $12-$15. Mature SATURDAY/DEC. 12 classic dance music including west audiences. visit https:// Traditional Holiday Tale, “A [email protected] coast swing, east coast swing, hustle, sites.google.com/site/theatremclean/ Christmas Carol.” 1 and 4 p.m. Latin, country western 2-step, waltz The Alden Theatre, 1234 Ingleside www.fbcv.org and more. $12.00 per person Ave., McLean. Perhaps the best loved includes optional lesson, dance, soda FRIDAY/DEC.4 holiday story of all time, Theatre IV’s SUNDAY WORSHIP, 7:45 AM & 11:00 AM and snacks. Contact Ed Cottrell at Happy Holidays from adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic CHURCH SCHOOL 9:30AM-10:30AM 703-435-5620 or Rocknoceros. 10:30 a.m. Jammin’ is particularly suited to children. $10, MIDWEEK SERVICES, WED. 7:00 PM [email protected] for more Java, 227 Maple Ave. East, Vienna. $15. http://mcleancenter.org/alden- information. Happy Holidays from Rocknoceros is theatre. 703-790-0123. a musical “Norman Rockwell” that captures the essence of the To Highlight Your Faith Community, FRIDAY-SUNDAY/NOV. 27-29. procession of holidays that punctuate SUNDAY/DEC. 13 33rd Annual Thanksgiving Art and each year with a festive exclamation call Karen at 703-917-6468 Craft Show. Friday-Saturday, 10 point. $5. www.jamminjava.com. a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. See Calendar, Page 15

14 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Charming “Harvey” from 1st Stage Screwball comedy with terrific performances.

By David Siegel The Connection

ith impeccable comic mastery, 1st Stage has produced a priceless, Wcrisp “Harvey,” the 1945 Pulitzer Prize winning play written by Mary Chase. Originally aimed at a WWII war- weary America, “Harvey” is a delightfully acted Photo by Teresa Castracane/Courtesy of 1st Stage show, full of absurd situations and small gems of Johnathan Lee Taylor as Elwood P. Dowd serious-minded moments. and Sue Schaffel as Betty Chumley in “Harvey” spins around a character named Elwood “Harvey” at 1st Stage. Photo by Teresa P. Dowd, who may or may not be a delusional alco- Castracane. holic. The show probes the notion that being “a perfectly normal human being” might make some- Where and When one a “stinker.” It rummages into the possibility 1st Stage presents “Harvey” performing at 1524 Spring that a “pooka” (in Irish Folklore, a presence visible Hill Road, Tysons. Performances now thru Dec. 20, 2015. only to those who believe) exists in the guise of Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sun- days at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets: $30; with student, six-foot tall, “unseen” rabbit named Harvey. seniors and military discounts. Call 703-854-1856 or visit Directed by Michael Chamberlin, “Harvey” has a www.1ststagetysons.org. cornucopia of stellar performances. A supporting ensemble has many laughable moments, making moments of animated slow-burning, daftness re- on-stage shambles into blissful entertainment. The acting to the fraught situations their characters supporting cast make the production appealing find themselves in. Elliot Bates, a boorish, high- even with characters that might be viewed as out- brow doctor, who transforms into an engaging of-date given their 1945 origins and viewpoints. oddball who believes Harvey is quite real. Eccentric to a fault, Dowd is played by Jonathan As tentative love interests, Carolyn Kashner and Lee Taylor. He is a smooth-talking, mild-mannered Tim Torre perform agreeably. Robert Grimm has man, often fueled by thoughts of having a drink. an over-the-top, burlesque-like turn as a medical With well-placed special effects, Taylor easily orderly. Kelsey Meiklejohn and DeJeanette Horne leaves the audience wondering if he might be the are solid as foils to the on-stage clowning. With sanest person on the stage. only a few moments on stage, William Aiken hits The supporting cast includes a confident, terrific the mark delivering sobering, wise lines of dialogue. performance by Tonya Beckman as Dodd’s on-stage The seamlessly detailed WWII setting includes sister Veta. Beckman has a matchless ability to a fanciful use of a turntable that comes from the present a bewildering range of emotions such as fertile minds of scenic designer Kay Hughes, light- exasperation, and vexation without speaking a ing designer Brittany Shemuga, costume designer word. Her work is a bright candy-land of vivid comic Kara Waala and sound designer Edward Moser. energy with her expressive face and physicality. “Harvey” will bring fun and diversion to any- Sue Schaffel and Emily Morrison provide superb one ready to let their guard down and be tickled.

Calendar

From Page 14 course, original material. There’s Christmas with a program entitled something for everyone in the family. “Dance and Sing! Christ is Born!” The ”Welcome to Our World.” 10 a.m. www.greatfallsumc.org. 703-759- music includes those carols written Great Falls Methodist Church, 10100 3705. with the rhythms of dance, including Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. a Christmas Festival. 6-7:30 p.m. the final movement of the Bach musical for Christmas written by Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, Brandenburg Concerto No. 5. The Claire Cloninger and Robert Sterling. 1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. program will be followed by dessert The musical includes traditional The church choirs will be joined by a in St. Andrews Hall. Free. carols, newer praise songs and, of string ensemble as they prepare for www.lewinsville.org.

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Free Estimates 703-999-2928 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 15 Consider adopting a child from foster care. In Virginia, there are more than 860 children waiting and Thankful for Adoption hoping to be adopted. Many of those children are listed on the Adopt US Kids website which you can find at: adoptuskids.org/states/va/index.aspx Photos and bios provided by Fairfax County Department of Family Services

Adame, an energetic 6- year-old boy has a big smile Creating Families with Adoption and big heart to match. Keep- ing Adame engaged will help him remain on task and mini- mize anxiety for him. A Adoptive parents two-parent household, with one parent primarily in the described: ‘Grateful. home available to attend to Adame’s needs would be ideal, Adame is resilient and would Generous. Awesome.’ thrive in an adoptive family of his own. Tim, an active 16-year-old, By Joan Brady loves to keep busy. His favorite thing to do is go fishing. He The Connection would like a family who is ac- tive and loving. He gets along ovember is National Adoption well with young children and has a good sense of humor. He Awareness Month. With that hopes to one day attend a trade Nin mind, meet two families school to become a plumber because he feels expanded through adoption; this would be a great way to become finan- two families whose kids describe their fam- cially stable. ily as “awesome.” Photo by Joan Br Damon, a kind and thought- The Hagens of Vienna are a family of two ful 14-year-old young man parents, Kelly and Scott; three boys, two enjoys eating out, watching adopted and one biological; and two fam- movies and going to the park. He has discovered rock-collect- ily dogs. Appreciative is the word that comes ing and can identify many to mind listening to the Hagens talk about different kinds of rocks. Damon

their family. ady likes school; he is energetic and Lewis, 17, describes family priorities. loves sports, especially basketball, rollerblading and riding his bike. “Somehow we find time to do stuff together. Hagen Family: Scott, Spencer, James, Lewis and Kelly of Vienna Like eating dinner. I’ve heard some fami- Summer, a 15-year-old lies don’t do that. That’s very sad to me.” biological, two adopted from Fairfax County them in for peace and quiet.” young lady enjoys hiking and biking outdoors, and loves mu- Spencer, 16, talks of how his brother, foster care, and one foster son — and two Scott and Megan Connelly have been fos- sic and reading. She is James, influences his life. “I know there are cats. They hope to add a therapy dog in the ter parents to many kids over the years. self-taught on piano and guitar a lot of experiences that I get to have be- next few months. According to Scott, the “spectacular” suc- and can play songs by ear. She cause James is so outgoing.” Jackson, 8, likes the commotion that a cess of the foster children they have had would like a family that has a love for music and enjoys being James, 11, appreciates time spent with large family brings. “I like having brothers. over the years, many now grown, as well active in the community. his dad. “I like working outside with my It’s interesting living with a lot of people. as the success of their biological and dad. And, I like that he pays me for it.” It’s very loud, which means I’m never bored adopted boys is simple. “We make sure they Lewis loves having brothers. “You have and I learn a lot about how to be nice.” know that we love them, unconditionally, people who are always there. I play XBox Anthony, 17, has a deep appreciation for and that we are going to hold them account- All 860 with them. We talk. We listen to music. It’s his parents, “Not every family would take able. It takes a few weeks, but then they like having friends that are always there in so many kids and do so much for them. settle right in.” By Joan Brady AND they are family.” Would be different My parents make sure to keep things fair Megan adds: “One of the things that helps with sisters? Spencer says,“Well, they would and show us a lot of love.” makes our household work is that the kids arental rights terminated. probably make it all about them.” Ben, 15, recognizes all that it means to are flexible and giving. Each time we have P Available for adoption. Floun- For parents Kelly and Scott Hagen, ap- be a family, “If you are looking for a family, added someone new into the mix, they fol- dering in an imperfect system. preciation extends outside of their imme- you will find everything and more from the low the example set and pretty quickly, it’s These words describe many children diate family. “We have a lot of special is- family right here. We are everything you like they were always there.” who are currently living in foster care sues in our family and that has made us would expect; the good and the bad. We Nicholas, the Connelly’s 10-year-old fos- in Virginia. In Fairfax County, these more open minded about people,” says are a real family.” ter son describes his foster parents this way: four children are hoping that this will Kelly. “We make fewer assumptions and we Hunter, also 15, might complain about the “They are grateful. They are generous. They be the last Thanksgiving spent in fos- listen more.” noise, and apparently does, all of the time, are awesome.” ter homes. but he wouldn’t change a thing, “When we Megan Connelly is one of 12 kids, 10 of Gov. Terry McAuliffe wants those Meet the Connelly Family are at home and I’m trying to get work done whom were adopted. Megan says that children who are currently available The Connellys have an immediate family and everyone’s doing their thing around my with their current four, they are only just for adoption, adopted into loving that includes two parents, five sons — two area, it drives me crazy. But I wouldn’t trade getting started. homes, and he isn’t messing around. “Let’s make it a goal – all of us in

Photos by Joan Br this room – that one year from today all 860 of these children will be adopted,” McAuliffe recently charged a room full of adoption and foster care professionals at the Connecting Hearts Summit.

ady Focusing on Virginia is a good start. More than 26,000 young people across the United States age out of foster care each year to futures more likely to include homelessness and hunger than jobs and careers that will pay the bills. All of those young people were once children like the 108,000 currently languishing in foster care. Children who hoped, in vain, that someone would come forward and

Connelly Family: Hunter, Jackson, Ben and Anthony Scott and Megan Connelly. See Adoption, Page 17 (Foster son, Nicholas, not pictured).

16 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Thankful Sports Adoption From Page 16

choose them for adoption. In 2014, McAuliffe elevated the priority of foster care adoption by appointing Debbie Johnson as Virginia’s Adoption Champion. An adoptee herself, one of her achievements to-date has been to create Connection Hearts. www.connectingheartsva.org. With Ericca Facetti at the helm, Connecting Hearts works with the Virginia Department of Social Ser- vices, local departments of social services as well as local businesses to engage and educate the public Langley sophomore Elena Shklyar (12) totaled 16 kills, Photos by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection about children in foster care who 18 assists and seven blocks against Madison in the 6A Langley senior Jess Donaldson had 13 kills and 15 digs are waiting for adoptive families. state final on Nov. 20 at VCU’s Siegel Center in Rich- against Madison during the 6A state championship One of Ericca’s immediate goals mond. match on Nov. 20 at VCU’s Siegel Center. is to get as many of those children as appropriate included in the Adoptuskids/Virginia listings. Cur- rently, of the 860, just 180 are Langley Volleyball Falls to Madison in listed. www.adoptuskids.org/ states/va/index.aspx Sophomore Shklyar totals 16 kills, According to the Metropolitan Five-Set State Final Council of Governments (COG), there are 259 children in the DC 18 assists in defeat. metro area waiting for adoptive By Jon Roetman homes. Child Welfare Program The Connection as a sophomore on the Saxons’ setter Lauren Pratte had 19 as- Manager, Kamilah Bunn, works 2013 title team, finished with sists and eight digs. tirelessly to bring visibility to fos- or senior outside hit 13 kills and 15 digs on Friday, ter care adoption in our region. ter Jess Donaldson, but fell short of her bid for a FOR MADISON, senior setter COG’s adoption efforts include FFriday’s 6A state second state championship. Kendal Hall totaled five aces and Wednesday’s Child, The PicMe championship match “It honestly just felt differ- 47 assists. Seniors Natale Project, Regional Adoption Events at VCU’s Siegel Center included ent,” Donaldson wrote in an Zanellato and Jaynie Carter fin- and the Regional Adoption Ex- a change in roles — and out- email. “My sophomore year, ished with 19 and 18 kills, re- change. come — from her experience in there were seniors and juniors spectively. Junior Emily Calhoun Many children have no problem the 2013 state final. to lean on when we struggled had 11 kills for Madison. advocating for themselves. Per- For sophomore setter Elena with something. This year, that Langley finished the season haps one of the more memorable Shklyar and other Saxons who job was up to me and other with a 25-6 record and the 6A self-advocates was a 10-year old will continue their high school teammates like Kristian North region title. Madison twin, who grabbed his brother, careers next season, Friday’s [Stanford] and Katie [Sissler] ended the year with a 23-6 hopped on a stage in downtown state final was a learning expe- that had been to Siegel Center record and took home Confer- DC, grabbed a mic and belted out rience. in past years. It’s hard to play ence 6 and 6A state champion- to the cheering crowd, “WE NEED For the Langley volleyball in a gym like that when you ships. A FAMILY.” Other children are not team, Friday’s match against aren’t used to it.” “I was very proud [of] the so forthcoming; They are embar- Conference 6 rival Madison was Donaldson will play at players on the team this year,” rassed by circumstances that are a tough way to end to an other- Langley senior Kristian Lehigh University next season. Donaldson wrote. “We played no fault of their own. They have wise successful season. Stanford had 10 kills and 16 “I’m not sure I can express hard and it was an accomplish- been disappointed by adults who After dropping two of the first digs against Madison in the 6A how much Jess has meant to ment to make it to the Siegel have said they loved them, but three sets, Madison battled state final. this program,” Langley head Center. At the beginning of the who then turned away. They fear back to defeat Langley 3-2 (20- coach Susan Shifflett wrote in year, Coach Shifflett told the further rejection. 25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-17, 15-8) “I think that both teams started an email. “She is the perfect mix team that anything less than Social workers and other profes- in the VHSL 6A state final on off the match a little on the edge of competitor and genuineness. states would be a disappoint- sionals like Kamilah Bunn and Nov. 20 in Richmond. due to all the nerves in the gym She works hard every day, pushes ment. I think it was disappoint- Ericca Facetti all work together to Madison captured the for this big game,” Shklyar wrote her teammates in such a positive ing that we didn’t win because protect each child, as they work program’s first state champion- in an email. “Once we got past manner, communicates with we have beaten them before tirelessly to match children suc- ship by winning the first all- those nerves, we got into a groove coaches and is just fun! She is just and we can, but Friday night, it cessfully with a small pool of po- Fairfax County big-school vol- and that’s when we were at our so easy to love.” just wasn’t there.” tential adoptive families. leyball state final in VHSL his- best. In the final two sets, we sim- Shklyar finished with 16 kills, 18 Shklyar said the loss can be a tory. It was the fifth meeting of ply started making some unforced assists, seven blocks, four digs and learning experience. the season between the errors that we usually don’t make two aces. “I think that the experience Adoption Expo Warhawks and the Saxons, in- and that was the difference in the “Elena had a great match, of losing in that fifth set in such What: 2015 Adoption Expo will cluding the third with a cham- game. If we kept our discipline played way above her sophomore an important match really educate, inspire and celebrate pionship on the line. Madison from the first sets throughout the level,” Shifflett wrote. She is “so showed our team just how families formed through adoption. Prospective adoptive parents can defeated Langley in the Confer- entire match, there could have mature in the game. The next two much harder we need to work meet adoption professionals as well ence 6 tournament final, and been a different ending for us.” years with her should be very com- for next year,” she wrote. “Be- as current adoptive and foster the Saxons knocked off the petitive.” ing so close but not quite get- parents to learn about foster care adoption and foster parenting. Warhawks in the 6A North re- TWO YEARS AGO, Langley won Senior outside hitter Stanford ting what we came to accom- Cost: Free gion championship match. The the state championship with a had 10 kills and 16 digs for the plish definitely stung, but I have When: Dec. 5, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. teams had split their first four sweep of First Colonial. Saxons. Junior libero Sarah no doubt it will motivate us to Where: 801 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20001 meetings. Donaldson, an all-state performer Maebius had 31 digs, and junior work even harder next year.” More: adoptionfosterexpo.org www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 17 Home & Garden 703-778-9411 Zone 6: • Arlington • Great Falls Home & Garden Zone 6 Ad Deadline: • McLean • Vienna/Oakton connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com Monday Noon

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18 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Faith Notes 703-778-9411 Zone 6: • Arlington • Great Falls Zone 6 Ad Deadline: Classified All Four It Faith Notes are for announcements and events • McLean • Vienna/Oakton Monday Noon in the faith community. Send to [email protected]. Deadline is By KENNETH B. LOURIE Friday. 101 Computers 101 Computers 26 Antiques 26 Antiques In fact, it was my idea (and I do think Tuesday/Nov. 24 much of it), as it has been previously, but Emmanuel Lutheran Church will hold its 17th We pay top $ for STERLING, this time, my oncologist felt – to quote my Annual Community Thanksgiving Worship Service HDI MEN'S WATCHES, late father: “The idea had merit.” And so, on Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 7:30 p.m. Clergy will lead COMPUTER SOLUTIONS JEWELRY, COSTUME JEWELRY, infusing forward, I will be visiting (I use that the service with prayers for peace and thanksgiv- JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995 FURNITURE, PAINTINGS AND CLOCKS. word loosely), the Infusion Center every ing. Local choirs from participating congregations ➣ Schefer Antiques four weeks instead of three. A change will join together under one roof to provide an Speed Up Slow nearly seven years in the making. Now evening of inspirational music. An offering will be Computers 703-241-0790 [email protected] whether it hastens my demise or simply collected to support CHO and The Lamb Center. ➣ Virus Removal improves the quality of my life, I certainly Bring the family, or come with friends. The church don’t know. All I know is what little I know. is located at 2589 Chain Bridge Road, Vienna. ➣ Computer Setup 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Nevertheless, given my amazing good for- ➣ Help with Windows 8 tune to still be alive so many years after my Celebrate Advent and Christmas at Trinity original prognosis “prognosed” otherwise: United Methodist Church, 1205 Dolley Madison 571-265-2038 Blvd., McLean. Weekly worship is Sundays at 8:30 [email protected] “13 months to two years,” (as stated by my oncologist on 2/27/09), I suppose I’m living and 10:30 a.m.; Wednesdays at noon. Holiday proof that cancer works in mysterious ways events include: and not always according to medical expec- Sunday, Dec. 13, Children’s Musical, 10:30 a.m. 21580 service. tations. Thank God! Atlantic Blvd. Sunday, Dec. 20, Lessons and Carols, 10:30 a.m. #120 Perhaps the future – and maybe even the service. Sterling, present, is what I make of it. And though it’s Thursday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, 5 p.m. fam- VA 20166 difficult – but not impossible – to do so, ily service; 8 p.m., Candlelight and Communion; 11 among the rather grim tales that one hears a.m., Candlelight and Communion. 703-444-7804 in the lung cancer/cancer-in-general world, www.imtrinity.org. www.VAGoldBuyers.com there are success stories, many of which I’ve Latinos como tú sirviendo a nuestra comunidad actually heard. And the more of these sto- The Churches of the Ecumenical Council ries I hear, the more I feel empowered and are offering a Blue Christmas worship opportunity • We are Local realize that even though we have not won Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2:30 p.m. at Katie’s Coffee • We Buy Gold, Silver and Diamonds the war on cancer, we are winning battles, House, 760 Walker Rd., Great Falls. This is an op- • Over 40,000 Satisfied Customers not just skirmishes. Lung cancer patients are portunity to come together expressing the griefs, • We are Licensed and Specialize in State Sales living longer, as I have been fortunate to do; losses and challenges of our lives as we connect to now we’re going to try and improve the hope and faith. Call Carol 703-582-1640 with ques- Not Ready to Sell? Please call us tions. for our Lending Options! quality of that “living longer.” Not that you readers can’t sort it for yourselves, but extending my infusion Chancel Choir, children and youth of the Great Falls United Methodist Church invite you to schedule by one week from three to four is 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements join them for worship as they offer “Welcome to not merely a 33 percent increase in that Our World,” a musical for Christmas written by ABC LICENSE interval, it’s an exponential increase in my Caboose Brewing Company, Claire Cloninger and Robert Sterling on Sunday, LLC trading as Caboose Brew- head; meaning it feels way more significant Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. The musical includes traditional ing Company, 520 Mill St. NE than one week. It almost seems as if I can carols, newer praise songs and original material. Vienna, VA 22180. The above breathe normally again (not that I have any Robert R. “Mitch” Mitchell, Director of Music establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT cancer-related difficulty breathing other Ministries at Great Falls UMC, former U.S. Army OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE than climbing stairs, lifting heavy objects or Bandsman, and local area Piano teacher/freelance CONTROL (ABC) FOR A otherwise over-exerting myself); the sensa- Musician will be conducting the choir and narra- Mixed Beverages on premises license to sell or manufacture tion now, the expectation now, is that I have tors. Church keyboardist Thomas Pandolfi will be alcoholic beverages. Matthew control of my life for an extra week EVERY accompanying the musical. Great Falls United Greer, member SINGLE MONTH that I’ve not had for Methodist Church is located at 10100 Georgetown NOTE: Objections to the issu- ance of this license must be almost seven years. I don’t want to go com- Pike, right next to the Fire Station in the center of submitted to ABC no later that mercial here, but can you spell relief? For the village. All are welcome. 30 days from the publishing me, it’s not a product, it’s a lifestyle. date of the first of two required Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 2589 Chain newspaper legal notices. However, as relieved as I am, this deci- objections should be regis- sion/possibly even accommodation from my Bridge Road, Vienna, is holding Sunday evening tered at www.abc.virginia.gov oncologist, is not because I’m cured, in worship service in a less formal atmosphere and or 800-552-3200. 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements more intimate setting to help you get ready for the remission or cancer-free. No. It’s because I week ahead. Sundays, 6 p.m. Communion offered. asked and my most recent PET Scan No childcare. 703-938-2119 or answered by indicating that I was “stable,” www.elcvienna.org. For a free digital sub- according to my oncologist. News, I like to joke, with which I can live. But news which St. Francis Episcopal Church, 9220 scription to one or all hardly extricates me from “Cancerville.” Georgetown Pike in Great Falls, offers musical, Rather, news that allows/enables my oncolo- educational, outreach and fellowship ministries in of the 15 Connection gist to consider some options that many addition to worship services, including a 7:45 a.m. cancer patients are unable to consider. For worship service without music; 9 a.m. worship ser- Newspapers, go to the record, though: this is unlikely to be vice, children’s chapel and children’s choirs; 10 www.connectionnews permanent and guarantees are not being a.m. Sunday school and adult forum; and 11 a.m. made. Still, to invoke Hubert H. Humphrey: worship service with adult choir. 703-759-2082. papers.com/subscribe “I’m pleased as punch.” As a long-time salesman, I’ve heard The Antioch Christian Church offers a time Complete digital rep- many technique advisories. One I will men- of Prayer and Healing on Wednesday evenings at tion here: “Don’t be afraid to take ‘yes’ for 6:30 p.m. for anyone wanting encouragement and an answer.” Well, I’ve learned my lessons. I healing through prayers. People are available to lica of the print edition, pray with you or for you. Antioch Christian Church am going to take “yes” for an answer. I’m including photos and 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements is located at 1860 Beulah Road in Vienna. not looking for trouble. If my oncologist is www.antiochdoc.org ads, delivered weekly happy to oblige/agree with the four-week interval, then who am I to question it? The Jewish Social Services Agency (JSSA) to your e-mail box. Question it is the last thing I’m going to do. offers a wide variety of support groups for those I’m going to embrace and enjoy it. Besides, with emotional, social, and physical challenges. I deserve it. I only wish there hundreds/ www.jssa.org/growth-learning. Questions? E-mail: thousands of other “terminal” cancer goinggreen@connection patients receiving similar results and subse- HAVEN of Northern Virginia offers a vari- quent improvement in the quality of their ety of free bereavement support groups, meeting newspapers.com lives. And though it may be temporary (until on a weekly basis. 703-941-7000 or the results of my next CT Scan in January, www.havenofnova.org. that is), for the time I’m still being: “Oh, what a relief it shall be!” McLean Bible Church Fitness Class at Body Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for & Soul Fitness. Gain balance, energy and strength The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. at 9:45 a.m. Mondays and Fridays. Free childcare for registered students. [email protected]. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 ❖ 19 www.GreatFallsGreatHomes.com

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20 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ November 25 - December 1, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com