Ann Shanley, making wildflower bouquets in a Wyoming field at 90.

Mothers Day

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U.S. Postage U.S. ArPets, Page 10 STD PRSRT Photo by Eden Brown/The Connection by Eden Brown/The Photo May 5-11, 2021 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com Mother’s Day Moms are Always There, Until They Aren’t … Or Are They?

Reflecting on mothers She was the springboard from which each of us jumped into life. We knew that life’s needs would be met while we were off tak- from a different era. ing chances too risky for a wife or mother. By Pamela Mathes We exercised the fruits of our education that The Connection she would not be able to pursue as a wife or mother. We had the celebratory recognition oms are always there. They pop of achievement that she would set up, coor- into your mind even when they dinate, bake for and welcome as a hostess to are not physically there, espe- all in attendance. cially if you are weighing the In 2018, just after my Dad died, I did get M Photo contributed odds of getting caught doing something that the chance to tell my mother just how much she warned you not to do. She is somehow I observed her dedication – her self-effacing there especially if you accomplished some- strength. I told her that although we never thing you really did not think you could tack- said the words, we knew deep down inside le, say nothing of complete. She has always who was responsible for the predictable been that “conscience” sitting on my shoul- warmth and security associated with home. der. You know that special look that conveys At this time, dementia had truly blanketed her ability to respond verbally. so much without words having to be said. Alexandria resident Pam Mathes (right) with her mother, Pat. And in the middle, a As I took her hand to communicate my So this Mothers Day, I realize that my big nosy poodle named Phoebe. mother will really never again be physically thoughts, I saw how the years had marred her available to me. She died on Jan. 4, 2021, her life.” They were the perfect Navy couple and her daughter. skin and had made her look frail. And then and I have been so busy settling her estate – solid, social and responsible. They were I guess you could say that my mother lived I felt it -- that strong squeeze, that knowing and continuing to “do” things for her and tie dedicated to making a better life for them- her life through others. She was from the era shake and that pull on my arm. Again, with up “life’s packages” in her honor, that I truly selves and their children and were totally of brave women who were not allowed to no words my mother assured me and made have not taken the time to say goodbye. It devoted to one another. She was the per- have careers and were expected to get mar- me feel appreciated. She comforted me while is a task that I knew intellectually would ar- fect Navy bride, always stepped up to serve ried, to have children and to delight in keep- I was doing my best to comfort her. rive, but now that it is here, I am in awe of where and when needed. Although never ing the house clean with delightful meals So that is the way it is now. She comforts where it may take me. officially recognized by the Navy as the hard on the family table. She did all those things me as I live without her. Her memory, her My mother came from a small town in working, conscientiously faithful accomplice beautifully, graciously and never asked for words, her hug, her reassurance will nev- Beloit, Wisconsin. She dated her childhood to Dad’s successes, she proudly was there to recognition. It was expected so she stepped er leave me. Even though I cannot see her sweetheart in high school and spent the next celebrate his career. She was always there to up and made sure expectations were met physically, her presence is there. Moms are 73 years of her 95 years with “the love of celebrate accomplishments of both her son fully and grandly. always there.

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2 v Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mother’s Day

She was the springboard from which each of us jumped into life. We knew that life’s It’s Mom’s Turn: Try Breakfast in Bed needs would be met while we were off tak- ing chances too risky for a wife or mother. By Shirley Ruhe Photos by Shirley Ruhe/The Connection We exercised the fruits of our education that Arlington Connection she would not be able to pursue as a wife or mother. We had the celebratory recognition t’s her special day. Mom may of achievement that she would set up, coor- want to get dressed up and dinate, bake for and welcome as a hostess to go out for brunch or she may all in attendance. want to just stay in bed. But In 2018, just after my Dad died, I did getI of course that doesn’t mean she the chance to tell my mother just how muchdoesn’t expect a special breakfast I observed her dedication – her self-effacingthat she doesn’t have to make her- strength. I told her that although we never self. said the words, we knew deep down inside She may not love to share a bowl who was responsible for the predictableof your fruit loops but scrambled warmth and security associated with home. eggs are easy for kids because you At this time, dementia had truly blanketed are supposed to break the eggs. Duck Donuts fall into hot fat in front of your eyes and can be cus- her ability to respond verbally. And what kid doesn’t love to whip tomized with your choice of coating, topping and drizzle. As I took her hand to communicate mythem up around and around in the thoughts, I saw how the years had marred herbowl? But what else to serve on sert on Mother’s Day so a two-layer skin and had made her look frail. And thenher tray for that special surprise? 5.5-inch chocolate personal heart I felt it -- that strong squeeze, that knowing Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar and cake with a special message will shake and that pull on my arm. Again, withEatery on Courthouse Road offers hit the spot. no words my mother assured me and madea Breakfast in Bed bundle, which Maybe mom is more of a donut me feel appreciated. She comforted me whileis a collection of petite croissants, lover. Duck Donuts on Harrison I was doing my best to comfort her. savory scones and a mini-banana Street allows you to create an in- So that is the way it is now. She comfortsloaf, packaged in a custom box. You dividualized donut with mom’s me as I live without her. Her memory, her could supplement it with pepper favorite frosting, topping and driz- words, her hug, her reassurance will nev-jelly for an extra zip. Orders must zle. The donut falls into the vat er leave me. Even though I cannot see her be placed by cob Thursday, May 6. of hot fat in front of your eyes. It Photos Contributed physically, her presence is there. Moms areThe best thing about this selection can be topped with just about any always there. is that despite how hungry mom flavor you can imagine including Best Buns offers heart shaped Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & may be, there is plenty leftover for chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, lem- cookies for mom as well as a Eatery offers a Breakfast in Bed everyone including you. on, blueberry and maple. Then on Breakfast in Bed tray. bundle to surprise mom on her Be a part of our: Best Buns Bread Company in to the toppings: coconut, crunchy special day. Shirlington offers Mom’s Breakfast bacon, rainbow sprinkles, graham Wellbeing pages, the first in Bed tray with chocolate, plain crackers and more. And final- by Randolph in Lee Heights Shop- cream puff swan and opera with a week of every month. and almond croissants, orange and ly some drizzle on the top if you ping Center has pastries and pas- bit of gold leaf. And if your moth- Randolph’s Bakery meets the cherry scones with a heart-shaped choose. For Mother’s Day, they fea- tries and pastries and cookies and er is a gardener, you can pick up demand to eat dessert first with cookie and raspberry jam. If you Delight in our HomeLifeStyle ture a donut special vanilla with cakes and pastries. They have tulip a completely edible flower pot its wide selection of pastries, want to be nice to everyone, you strawberry drizzle and chocolate sprinkle cookies, signature cakes with the milk chocolate pot filled cookies and cakes including this sections, the second week could tuck in dad’s favorite Ka- icing with red, white, and blue such as the marble mousse ribbon, with a layer of strawberry mousse, completely edible flower pot. of every month. Peek at the tie’s-No-Ham breakfast sandwich sprinkles. a variety of French pastries such chocolate mousse, covered in Oreo top real estate sales, glimpse or your sister’s favorite sticky bun. And you know that old saying as the pavlova, blueberry almond cookie “dirt” crumbs with an edi- sneak in your favorite or try some- But even breakfast demands des- about eating dessert first. Pastries dacquoise, chocolate Bavarian, ble sugar pansy on top. Be sure to thing new. over-the-top remodeling projects, get practical suggestions for your home. Our Mothers Had Few Rights, Much Courage Celebrate students, camps, schools, enrichment Reflecting on bookcase, tossing wildly. adored. She was pretty, cre- programs, colleges and There, under the boxes of clip- ative, and fun. on earrings and embroidered I took it out of her bureau more in our A-plus: mothers from handkerchiefs, next to the fold- drawer and winced a little. Education, Learning, ed half-slips and white gloves, as She had kept it in that draw- Fun pages, the third week a different era. though it were the most valuable er, the contents of which had of jewels, was a small By Eden Brown been sorted many of every month. black and white service The Connection Mothers Day times during count- badge saying “Colby Ju- less moves in the in- Senior Living, fourth week nior College for Wom- Reflection tervening 73 years. ll my friends were los- of every month. en.” She had spent a year Her latest moves, ing their mothers, and there before leaving to when she downsized three Athis year, it was my Photo by Eden Brown get hastily married. It was the kind times, from house, to apart- Questions? turn. When we packed out my of badge you sewed on your white ment, to smaller apartment, mother’s room in her assisted E-mail sales@connection blazer with Navy piping and wore to one room had sifted out living facility after Christmas, with white socks and saddle shoes. many more valuable things. newspapers.com or my brother delegated the bu- It was the only vestige of her brief She had distributed her silver, call 703-778-9431 reau drawers to me as they year of transition from high school her grandmother’s bible, the contained her underthings, her to Life, other than her lavish debu- plaque about her great grand- jewelry, trinkets — the core of tante photos. All possibilities were father, her collection of small her femininity. He was ruth- open to her. She came from a good lessly plowing through the Ann Shanley, making wildflower bouquets in a Wyoming field at 90. family. She had a roommate she See Our Mothers, Page 9

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 v 3 News The Arlington Connection

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Walk In Vaccine Clinics @ArlConnection rlington County’s Public stub. Arlington residency is not re- Fri, 10am-3pm. Age requirements: 22202; Mon-Tues, 10am-3pm; An independent, locally owned weekly Health Division is offer- quired; anyone from any jurisdic- 16 and over (individuals ages 16-17 Wed-Fri, 9am-7pm; Age require- newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. ing walk-in vaccine clin- tion is welcome. will need to be accompanied by a ments: 18 and over; Vaccines Published by Aics to individuals ages Walk-ins are welcome Monday, parent or guardian who can provide available: Moderna and Johnson & Local Media Connection LLC 16 and up this week. No appoint- May 3 through Friday, May 7 at the permission to get the COVID-19 Johnson ments are required. following sites: vaccine). Vaccine available: Pfizer Individuals can still schedule 1606 King Street Please bring any form of iden- appointments by visiting the Coun- Alexandria, 22314 v v tification to confirm your identity. Walter Reed Community Crystal City, 2100 Crys- ty website or by calling 703-228- Free digital edition delivered to Examples include driver’s license, Center, 2909 16th Street South, tal Drive (GPS for parking: 220 7999 https://www.arlingtonva.us/ your email box. Go to utility bill, insurance card or pay- Arlington, VA 22206, Hours: Mon- 20th Street South), Arlington, VA covid-19/vaccines/registration/ connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe

Beyer Submits Community Project Funding Requests NEWS DEPARTMENT: [email protected] To support Northern Virginia infrastructure, police reform, health care. Shirley Ruhe Contributing Photographer and Writer [email protected] .S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) New rules adopted by the House joggers, pedestrians, and dog flooding event in July 2019. Of the submitted requests for fed- of Representatives in the 117th walkers. six pedestrian bridges lost in the Joan Brady Ueral funds for Virginia’s Congress allow each Representa- The current trail pavement and flooding event, the most important Contributing Photographer and Writer 8th Congressional District. The tive to submit funding requests for connectors are in deteriorating one for connectivity is the bridge [email protected] Fiscal Year 2022 Community Proj- up to 10 projects within their dis- condition with limited or poor ac- in Glencarlyn Park. Eden Brown ect Funding Program will provide trict for FY22, without any guar- cess from adjacent and intersecting Contributing Writer targeted funding for local projects antee of approval. Project requests streets. v Project Name: Behavioral [email protected] across the country. must fall within a limited scope of The trail, which was built in the Health Crisis Care “The Community Project Fund- federal accounts and direct funds late 1980s, runs for approximately Recipient: Arlington County Ken Moore ing requests I submitted on be- to state and local government and 1.2 miles connecting the Washing- Government Contributing Writer half of Arlington, Alexandria, Falls select non-profits. ton & Old Dominion Trail (W&OD Amount Requested: $390,000 [email protected] Church, and Fairfax all support Details can be found here. Trail) to the Four Mile Run Trail in The funding would be used to local initiatives which would sig- https://beyer.house.gov/ and near Bluemont Park. Like the purchase two medically equipped ADVERTISING: nificantly benefit our community,” blog/?postid=5133 W&OD Trail, the Bluemont Junc- vehicles dedicated to the mobile For advertising information [email protected] said Beyer. “The infrastructure re- tion Trail follows a former railroad crisis response team. The request- 703-778-9431 quests would enhance pedestrian v Project Name: Bluemont route connecting the W&OD rail ed funds will support a “Help not routes in the region, support EV’s Junction Trail line to the Ballston area of Arling- Handcuffs” approach to ensure Debbie Funk and other environmentally friend- Recipient: Arlington County De- ton, Virginia. that persons in behavioral health Display Advertising/National Sales ly initiatives, fund mental health partment of Parks and Recreation crises receive the most appropriate 703-778-9444 [email protected] resources, and support a pilot pro- Amount Requested: $325,000 v Project Name: Glencarlyn assistance needed when and where gram for the deployment of body- This project will mill and repave Park Pedestrian Bridge they need it. David Griffin worn cameras for the Alexandria a segment of the Bluemont Junc- Recipient: Arlington County De- A behavioral health response vs. Marketing Assistant Police Department. My requests tion Trail and adjacent connector partment of Parks and Recreation a law enforcement response will 703-778-9431 also include funding to help im- paths. This is one of Arlington Amount Requested: $800,000 increase community-based mental [email protected] plement some of the recommen- County s most heavily used multi- This funding will go towards health care, decrease emergency Classified & Employment dations made by the National Park use trails, which serves many replacing an important pedestri- department use, reduce inpatient Advertising Service safety study for GW Park- members of the community and an bridge in Glencarlyn Park in admissions, divert from the crimi- 703-778-9431 way which was recently complet- surrounding areas, including com- Arlington. The previous bridge nal justice system and support ra- ed.” muters and recreational cyclists, was lost during an unprecedented cial justice. Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm [email protected] National Chamber Ensemble Presents @MaryKimm Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon The Remarkable Four Seasons of Vivaldi 703-549-0004 [email protected] he National Chamber En- violinist Daniel Heifetz will include cello, double bass, and harpsichord. ble.org semble will present a virtu- a reading of the sonnets as well as $36 Adult / $18 Student; for For more information about the Art/Design: al performance of Vivaldi’s a multimedia presentation accom- more information about the Nation- National Chamber Ensemble go to Laurence Foong, John Heinly, T Ali Khaligh masterpiece The Four Seasons on panying the performance that in- al Chamber Ensemble go to www.NationalChamberEnsem- Production Manager: May 29, 2021.The 2020-21 NCE cludes paintings, moving images, www.NationalChamberEnsem- ble.org Geovani Flores season ended up being online, and Vivaldi’s own words written keeping the audience and artists into the music plus the ensemble’s Flourishing After 55 safe. The ensemble pivoted to own humorous demonstration link- CIRCULATION [email protected] virtual performances to keep the ing Vivaldi’s words, story and mu- Office of 55+ Programs VIRTUAL AND music going. Taped May 22nd, the sic. Department of Parks and Recreation OUTDOOR PROGRAMS concert links will go out on May JaLynn Prince, American hu- 3829 N. Stafford St., Local history group explores Fosto- Arlington, VA 22207 29th and will allow our audience manitarian, photographer, busi- ria, Overlee Knolls and Westover, 703-228-4747 Wednesday, May 5, 1:30 p.m. 12 days to enjoy the concert at nesswoman and the president and Registration # 913402-19. their convenience, the audience founder of the Madison House Contact: Judy Massabny, Afternoon hangout with fellow 55+ will also receive an invitation to a Foundation will read the sonnets [email protected] members, casual conversation, live virtual reception and conver- accompanying the “Seasons”. The 55+ Programs are virtual. A 55+ Thursday, May 6, 3:30 p.m. Regis- sation with the artists on Sun, June Ensemble’s Artistic Director Leonid Membership is required to attend tration # 913801-22. Travel trivia game, Thursday, May 6, 6 at 4 p.m. Sushansky, called “a musical story- ($20 annual fee). Learn more at parks.arlingtonva.us, search 55+ 11 a.m. Registration # 913601-06. The presentation of Vivaldi’s teller” by , will member. To join or register, go to Artist chat with community arts “The Remarkable Four Seasons” perform the violin solo with a sex- registration.arlingtonva.us or call programmer, discuss techniques, based on a concept by renowned tet that includes two violins, viola, 703-228-4747. See Helping, Page 7 4 v Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com The Flourishing After 55 Arlington Connection From Page 4 charcoal, pencil and pastels. Registration # www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 913301-03. materials and creative expression, Thursday, Fast paced walking group, two to three mile loop, @ArlConnection May 6, 4 p.m. Registration # 913301-22. some hills, Friday, May 14, 9 a.m. Leave from Black women and the space race, virtual trip Aurora Hills, 55+ Center, 735 S. 18th Street. An independent, locally owned weekly to the National Women’s History Museum, Registration # 913201-07. newspaper delivered Friday, May 7, 1:30 p.m. Registration # Early morning art activities with materials found to homes and businesses. 913400-13. at home, Monday, May 24, 7 a.m. Presented Published by Armchair travel explores rugged mountains, by community arts programmer, Jennifer Local Media Connection LLC glaciers and grizzly bears in Alaska, Fri., May Droblyen. Registration # 913301-08. 7, 3 p.m. Registration # 913402-31. Tai Chi in the park with experienced volunteers, 1606 King Street Documentary discussion, “Breathtaking K2: The Monday, May 24, 10 a.m., Virginia Highlands Alexandria, Virginia 22314 World’s Most Dangerous Mountain,” Monday, Park, 1600 S. Hayes Street. Registration # May 10, 2 p.m. Registration # 913402-34. 913105-12. Tai Chi in the park with experienced volunteers, Free digital edition delivered to Monday, May 10, 10 a.m.,Virginia Highlands your email box. Go to Monday morning meet-up with fellow 55+ Park, 1600 S. Hayes Street. Registration # connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe members, May 24, 10 a.m. Registration # 913105-10. 913801-19. Acoustic Café, live music from the 50’s to the Genealogy 101, led by advanced researcher Ei- present, Tuesday, May 11, noon. Registration NEWS DEPARTMENT: leen Bogdanoff, Tuesday, May 25, 11:30 a.m. #913802-05. Registration # 913400-21. [email protected] Stress management in today’s climate, Tuesday, Yarn creations, crochet and knit with 55+ mem- May 11, 11 a.m. Presented by Kate Chutuape, bers, Wednesday, May 26, 1 p.m., Langston- Shirley Ruhe manager, Senior Health, Virginia Hospital Brown 55+ Center, 2121 N. Culpeper Street. Contributing Photographer and Writer Center. Registration # 913500-03. Registration # 913703-24. [email protected] Acoustic Hour in the park, live music from the Coping with COVID-19, share challenges and 50s to the present, Wednesday, May 26, 12:30 Joan Brady successes, Tuesday, May 11, 3:30 p.m.Regis- p.m., Virginia Highlands Park, 1600 S. High- Contributing Photographer and Writer tration # 913500-06. land Street. Registration # 913802-02. [email protected] Virtual medical visits, how-to guide, Tuesday, Cold War intelligence in the skies. Scott Willey, May 11, 1:30 p.m. Learn about telehealth senior docent National Air and Space Muse- Eden Brown appointments from Dr. Nardin Khalil, Virginia um, will discuss the Cold War Aviation exhib- Contributing Writer Hospital Center. Registration # 913500-07. it, Wednesday, May 26, 1:30 p.m. Registration [email protected] History roundtable members to discuss the im- # 913400-14. pact of plagues, Tuesday, May 11, 11:15 a.m. Sudoku games, beginners and pros welcome, Registration # 913402-09. Ken Moore Thursday, May 27, 2 p.m. Registration # Estate planning beyond wills and trusts, Wednes- Contributing Writer 913601-03. day, May 12, 11 a.m. Presented by Elder Law [email protected] Return of the cicadas, discover where they went, Attorney Ed Zetlin. Registration # 913404- why they are back and more with Park Nat- 06. uralist Ken Rosenthal, Thursday, May 27, 6 ADVERTISING: The study of words and expressions, Wednesday, p.m. Registration # 913400-02. For advertising information May 12, 10:30 a.m. Registration # 913402- Copy artworks seen in museum during 55+ [email protected] 25. Travel excursions, Thursday, May 27, 10 a.m. 703-778-9431 Open Mic hosted by musician Carl Gold, Registration # 913301-17. Wednesday, May 12, 1:30 p.m. Registration # Line dance in the park, watch the teacher demon- Debbie Funk 913802-07. To participate, sign up for a three strate the steps, Friday, May 28, 10 a.m. Easy Display Advertising/National Sales to five minute time slot at lpaig@arlingtonva. for beginners, partner not needed. Registra- 703-778-9444 us. tion # 913701-11. [email protected] Movie discussion about “Rebeca,” Thursday, May Virtual scavenger hunt, Friday, May 28, 3 p.m. 13, 3 p.m. Registration # 913402-37. Registration # 913601-12. Travel discussion to focus on favorite meals David Griffin Just beneath the surface of works by three artists, and culinary treats from around the world, Marketing Assistant presented by community arts programmer Thursday, May 13, 3 p.m. Registration # and artist Jim Halloran, Friday, May 28, 703-778-9431 913402-28. [email protected] 10 a.m. Includes short demonstration of Favorite desserts and memories, Friday, May 14, an artist’s specific process. Registration # 3 p.m. Registration # 913501-07. 913302-06. Classified & Employment Fast paced walking group, two to three mile loop, Advertising Explore the art of drawing with community arts some hills, Friday, May 28, 9 a.m. Leave from 703-778-9431 programmer Jennifer Droblyen, Friday, May Aurora Hills 55+ Center, 735 S. 18th Street. 14, 1 p.m. Hear about various techniques in Registration # 913201-09. Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm Bulletin Board [email protected] @MaryKimm Submit civic/community announcements at different features including health tips, food ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos trucks, and live music. Visit https://brew- Executive Vice President and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at eryrunningseries.com/virginia/ Jerry Vernon noon, at least two weeks before the event. 703-549-0004 [email protected] CRYSTAL CITY FARMERS FRIDAY/MAY 7 MARKET OPENS. Controlling Mosquitoes and Ticks. 10– Art/Design: Tuesdays from 3-7 p.m. At Courtyard Laurence Foong, John Heinly, 11:30 a.m., Online. Learn pesticide-free best Green, 2121 Crystal Drive, Arlington. The Ali Khaligh management practices to control mosqui- National Landing BID is once again teaming Production Manager: toes and ticks in your yard and keep them up with nonprofit FRESHFARM to bring the Geovani Flores away from you and your family. Extension Farmers Market to Crystal City every Tues- Master Gardener Joan McIntyre will explain day. how to identify mosquitoes and ticks prev- CIRCULATION Shop for conventional and organic fruits [email protected] alent in this area, their life cycle, how they and vegetables, grass-fed meats and pas- reproduce, and where they go in the winter. tured poultry and eggs, sweet and savory Free. RSVP at https://mgnv.org/events/ to baked goods, salsas and other delicious receive link to participate. prepared foods from farmers and producers throughout D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Penn- SATURDAY/MAY 8 sylvania, and West Virginia. Additionally, 5K Race. At The Board Room, 925 N. Gar- the community compost collection is back, field Street, Arlington. The casual 5K walk/ so bring your compost to the market for easy jog/run course starts and ends at the brew- disposal. Visit the website: ery. Participants enjoy local libations and https://nationallanding.org/do/crys- leave with fun merchandise to commemorate tal-city-farmers-market their finish-line victory. Sponsored by Virgin- ia Brewery Running Series. Each event offers See Bulletin, Page 8 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 v 5 News 7 Republicans Vie To Be Governor May 8 convention to determine direction of party heading into November.

By Michael Lee Pope The Connection

epublicans haven’t won a state- wide race since 2009, when Attorney General Bob McDon- Rnell received 59 percent of the vote against Democrat Creigh Deeds. Since then, Republicans have been shut out of the Executive Mansion. Ken Cuc- cinelli lost to Terry McAuliffe in 2013, and lost to Ralph Northam in 2017. Now Republicans are about to determine their statewide candidates in a May 8 convention, which will take place at 37 locations. “This is a great year for Republicans, and we have a good chance to win the Executive Mansion,” said Frank Fannon, a former Republican member of the Al- exandria City Council. “A lot of people are not excited about a recycled Terry McAuliffe running for governor again.” The candidate with the most votes in the first round of counting may not end up as the winner. That’s because Republicans are using a process called ranked-choice voting to make sure that the nominee has support from more than 50 percent of the delegates. When the voting ends at 4 p.m. on May 8, would likely have no chance at all of win- of Great Falls. votes will be hand counted and then Convention Locations ning the nomination.” v In 2013, he was sent to Richmond, where party leaders Seven candidates will be on the ballot for 8th Congressional District Convention Location an unsuccess- will use mathematical formulas to give governor, a crowded field that seems likely National Right to Work Building ful candidate 8001 Braddock Road, Springfield VA 22151 to send the ranked-choice voting into several v for lieutenant elimination rounds before a winner is deter- 10th Congressional District Convention Location governor at the mined. For voters who are interested in par- 10th District Republican Headquarters Republican con- “We’ve seen a lot 20098 Ashbrook Place, Ashburn VA 20147 ticipating in selecting which of those seven v vention that of interest in this candidates for governor will be the nominee, 11th Congressional District Convention Location selected E.W. the deadline to register has already passed. NOVA Community College, Annandale campus Jackson as the convention. It’s a but Republican officials say they’ve seen out- 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale 22003 party’s nominee sized interest in participation. Under normal that year. On the sign that the circumstances, the convention would have from real-estate developers, subcontractors campaign trail, a limit to how many delegates from Alex- and lawyers. He’s never run for office be- Snyder talks about opening schools five days two-party system andria could participate. But this year the fore, although he’s trying to use that as an a week with a teacher in every classroom cap was eliminated, and candidates were asset by selling himself to voters as a can- and opposing efforts to use taxpayer dollars allowed to help potential new delegates reg- didate who’s not a politician. On the cam- to pay for in-state tuition for undocumented is alive and well.” paign trail, he talks about opposing abortion — Pete Benavage, ister. As a result, Alexandria has 703 creden- immigrants. tialed delegates. rights, supporting gun rights and ending the “Illegal immigration costs taxpayers bil- chairman of the Alexandria “We’ve seen a lot of interest in this con- public safety protocals put into place by the lions, and it brings crime and gangs into our Republican City Committee. vention,” said Pete Benavage, chairman of current governor during the pandemic. communities,” said Snyder in a campaign the Alexandria Republican City Committee. “When this governor opened up massage video about immigration posted to YouTube. “It’s a sign that the two-party system is alive parlors and ABC stores and kept my church “Northam and McAuliffe won’t take violent more weight to parts of the state that and well.” closed last year, I knew he didn’t share the illegals off our streets, but I will. When I’m support Republican candidates for pres- same values I do,” said Youngkin in a can- governor, I’ll enforce the law and deport vi- ident and governor. They’ll also be go- GLENN YOUN- didate forum. “So we’re going to stand up olent criminals.” ing through several elimination rounds, GKIN is a former for our First Amendment rights. But we’re distributing the second choice of voters lobbyist for the also going to stand up for the unborn, but KIRK COX is a whose first choice has been eliminated. Carlyle Group we’re also going to stand up for our Tenth former Speaker “There is a lot of concern about one who has raised Amendment rights and the overreach from of the House of candidate in particular, , more money Washington right now.” Delegates who who has perhaps strong support among than any of the has represented a particular faction within the Repub- other candi- PETE SNYDER is a businessman who’s prob- Colonial Heights lican Party but not broad-based sup- dates, $7.7 mil- ably best known for founding a social-me- since he was first port,” said Mark Rozell, dean of the lion, thanks in dia marketing agency known as New Media elected in 1989. Schar School of Policy and Government. part to a $5.5 Strategies. He’s raised $6.8 million, thanks He’s raised “Some believe in a multi-candidate race million loan in part to a $5.2 million loan from the can- about $1 mil- she could come out as the nominee, but from the can- didate. He also received a $1 million dona- lion, including in a ranked-choice voting system, she didate. He’s also received large donations tion from CapFi Partners CEO Mark Kimsey See Republicans, Page 7 6 v Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Republicans

From Page 6 large donations from Republican Party leaders and general contractors. During his time in the House, he supported a controversial plan to raise taxes for roads during the McDonnell administration and, more recently, expanding Medicaid to help low-income people get health insurance. On the campaign trail, the one issue that animates him more than anything else is his opposition to abortion rights. “I will stand up to the pro-abortion radicals,” said Cox in a campaign video posted to YouTube. “I will never stop fighting for the promise of life.”

AMANDA CHASE is a state Senator from Chesterfield who unseated incumbent Sen. Steve Martin (R-11) in 2015. She’s raised about $800,000. Chase is probably best known for speaking at the Jan. 6 rally before the insurrection at the Capitol. She later de- fended the people involved by saying “these were not rioters and looters, these were pa- triots.” On the campaign trail, she’s tried to cast herself as “Trump in heels,” repeating baseless assertions that the 2020 election was stolen. “What I believe I bring is something we’ve never had before. We’ve never had a Republican woman to seek the Re- publican nomination for governor,” said Chase in a candidates forum. “You know 50 percent of the population is women, and that’s a democrat- phic we need. We also need suburbian women. I am a suburban woman.”

SERGIO DE LA PENA is a retired Army colo- nel who served as a deputy assistant secretary of defense for the western hemisphere during the Trump administration. He’s raised about $263,000. On the campaign trail, he talks about how his experience as an immigrant might help bring new people into the party Same Company, Same Employees, and win over voters in Northern Virginia. “I came from Mexico. I was raised in a house with dirt floors and no running water, picking Same Great Value - Now Celebrating 20 Years! cotton at 10,” said de la Pena. “I fought social- ists and communists the entire time I was in the Army, and I continue to do so even to this TWO POOR TEACHERS day because what we’ve seen is that they’ve gone from bullets to ballots.” Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling PETER DORAN is a former think tank exec- utive and author. He’s raised about $16,000. On the campaign trail, he talks about phasing out the state income tax. “I spent my career helping countries that have been destroyed by socialism to chart a new path and to get strong,” said Doran in a campaign video. “I’m running for governor because I think it’s about time that we have a candidate with a winning conservative vision leading our commonwealth.”

OCTAVIA JOHNSON is a former sheriff of Ro- anoke who’s raised about $900. In 2014, she ran an unsuccessful campaign against Sam Rasoul for House District 11. “Everybody has heard of all the other can- • Electrical (ELE) Fully Insured & Class A Licensed didates. They know what their message is,” • Gas Fitting (GFC) Since 1999 10% down said Johnson in a television interview. “Now • Heating Ventilation and Air they’re going to hear Octavia Johnson’s mes- nothing until the job sage, and that will help them to decide who is Conditioning (HVA) is complete for the stale bread and who is fresh bread.” • Plumbing (PLB) past 17 years • Residential Building (RBC) Never miss an issue, Free Estimates 703-999-2928 get a free digital subscription: Check if your contractor is licensed at the state level http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe/ http://www.DPOR.virginia.gov Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 v 7 Wellbeing Bulletin Board

From Page 5 the Arlington County Detention Meeting Increased ARLINGTON FARMER’S Center has been suspended for MARKET OPENS more than a year .Visits will need Stock up on fresh fruits and to be scheduled in advance by the Mental Health Needs veggies this spring and summer individual remanded to custody. at Rosslyn’s Farmers Market, re- They will be allowed one in-person Photo courtesy of Fairfax County Affordable treatment turning to Central Place Plaza visit a month on their designated on May 5. Open every Wednes- day as the detention center safe- options highlighted day, 3-7 p.m., in partnership with ly and slowly returns to in-person FRESHFARM, the farmers market visits. All visits are non-contact, during National Mental brings local, sustainably sourced meaning family and friends are be- produce right to the heart of Ross- hind glass, minimizing the risk of Health Month lyn. Browse in-person, or check exposure to COVID-19. out this page for regular updates By Marilyn Campbell on anticipated vendors and preor- DONATIONS The Connection der options. To ensure the health The Arlington Food Assistance and safety of market visitors and Center seeks local gardeners and esulting from the tumultuous and emo- vendors remains the top priority, farmers willing to grow and donate tionally charged year past year, there’s FRESHFARM has implemented fresh produce to the AFAC food pan- try for local families in need as part been an uptick in reported mental health Those who are experiencing mental health COVID-19 Market Safety protocols of the Plot Against Hunger program. conditions. The demand for mental health challenges are encouraged to seek assis- at all farmers markets. R Each week, approximately 2,400 treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depres- tance from agencies and therapists with client families visit AFAC to pick up sion and suicidal ideation have increased by nearly income sensitive services. CHURCH DONATES 54,735 40 percent over the past year. During May, Mental POUNDS OF FOOD supplemental groceries and fresh Health Awareness Month, those in the profession Locating a Community St. Charles Borromeo Catholic fruits and vegetables are in high de- are working to raise awareness, educate the public Church in Clarendon in Arling- mand. AFAC will provide free vege- and fight stigma around mental health. ton, announced the impact of its table seeds to those who pledge to Service Board Near You donate produce from community or “The stress of the pandemic, the murder of CSB/BHA Directory - Virginia Association of Communi- volunteers during the COVID-19 George Floyd, and other civil rights atrocities over ty Services Boards (VACSB) pandemic. With the help of 35 ac- personal gardens. Visit https://afac. the past year have certainly driven more people ARLINGTON COUNTY CSB tive volunteers and broad support org/plot-against-hunger or contact to seek out behavioral healthcare services, said 2120 Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22204 and contributions from parishio- [email protected] or 703-845- Kurt Larrick, assistant director, Arlington County (703) 228-5150 ners, the parish was able to donate 8486. Seeds are available now at Website: https://health.arlingtonva.us/behavioral-healthcare/ Department of Human Services. “Surveys show a more than 54,735 pounds of food AFAC, 2708 S. Nelson St., during major increase in the number of U.S. adults who to 2,693 families and more than regular business hours: Monday-Fri- report symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression lems are severe, not realizing seeking help earlier $205,820 in emergency rental and day 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sat- during the pandemic, compared with surveys be- can often prevent the issues from becoming more utility assistance to 224 families. urdays 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Produce fore the pandemic.” severe,” she said. “The stigma of seeking help for can also be donated at AFAC at the “It is tough to secure affordable treatment,” add- mental health issues, as well as the stigma of hav- OPEN SCHEDULING FOR hours listed above or at: v ed Allana Taylor, Director of Student Counseling ing mental health needs remain a problem at Ma- COVID-19 VACCINES Arlington Courthouse Farm- Services at Marymount University. “This is true, son as well as universities throughout the U.S.” Beginning Tuesday, April 27, in- er’s Market, Saturdays 8 a.m.-noon especially in this area where private providers are In addition, students are busy and feel as though dividuals 16 years and older may (look for the AFAC cooler near the able to fill their caseloads with clients who can af- they do not have time to seek counseling. directly schedule an appointment Master Gardener information ta- ford to pay out of pocket.” As part of STEP-VA, a long-term state mandated to receive a free COVID-19 vaccine ble). v Community Services Boards (CSB), a public initiative designed to improve the community be- at Arlington County public health Rock Springs UCC Church, agency with a mission of providing affordable havioral health services available to all Virginians, clinics. Individuals can directly re- 5010 Little Falls Road, Sundays mental health services to both children and adults, Arlington’s Department of Human Services and serve a slot at one of Arlington’s 9 a.m.-noon only. (Look for the is one resource in Virginia. “CSBs are the best al- Community Services Board, implemented same public health clinics by visiting the donation bin on the Rock Spring ternatives … for low-cost services,” said Taylor. day access for behavioral healthcare services be- County website – or by searching Drive side of the church). “Every county or locality fore the pandemic, Vaccinefinder.org for appointments Pet Food Bank. AWLA is estab- has a CSB. They provide “It is tough to secure af- says Larrick. at nearby locations. Individuals lishing a Pet Food Bank to serve publicly funded mental “With same day who have pre-registered should qualifying residents of Arling- health, substance abuse, fordable treatment. This is access, individu- have received an invitation to ton County and the City of Falls and intellectual disability als who are inter- schedule a vaccine appointment. Church. In consideration of the services. CSBs offer a slid- true, especially in this area ested in seeking If you have not received an invi- effect financial obstacles have on ing fee scale based on in- mental health or tation to schedule, please check a pet owner’s ability to afford pet come. Those who typically where private providers are substance use treat- your spam folder or schedule your care, the AWLA Pet Food Bank have minimal income, can ment services can appointment now. Individuals ages program’s goal is to keep family be seen for low to no cost.” able to fill their caseloads get a service eligi- 16-17 should search for appoint- pets out of shelters. If you are an “The CSB offers a range bility assessment ment dates where Pfizer is offered. Arlington County or City of Falls of telehealth and in-per- with clients who can afford on a walk-in basis, Note: The Johnson & Johnson Church resident and are in need of son services including in- without an appoint- vaccine will be available at public assistance in feeding your pet, fol- dividual and group thera- ment,” he said. health clinics in the coming days, low this link and fill out a pre-reg- to pay out of pocket.” “[When] the pan- istration form. Visit goo.gl/forms/ py … psychiatric services — Allana Taylor, Director of Student Counsel- and it will be noted on the appoint- and crisis stabilization,” demic hit we had ment slots. Call 703-228-7999. s2FuFdaYWdZm4tPw2. said Lisa Flowers of the ing Services at Marymount University. to change things For additional assistance, call Fairfax-Falls Church Com- around. We still do 1-877-VAX-IN-VA (877-829-4682). GET MORE WITH SNAP munity Services Board. “Individuals are assessed same day access, but instead of coming in per- Arlington and Alexandria Farm- and based on need are provided a treatment rec- son, we provide the services virtually or over the SHERIFF’S OFFICE ANNOUNCES ers’ Markets accept SNAP/EBT ommendation to the appropriate level of care.” phone.” MODIFIED VISITATION PLAN (Supplemental Nutrition Assis- On college campuses mental health is often ne- While acknowledging that stumbling blocks to Arlington County Sheriff Beth tance Program) cards for pur- glected by students. On college campuses many mental health care still exist, Flowers says that Arthur has announced a modified chases. SNAP/EBT customers can students feel embarrassed or ashamed when it mental health professionals, “are committed to reopening of in-person visitation purchase farm fresh produce at lo- comes to discussing their personal struggles, says tackling these barriers and continuing to let people for those remanded to the Arlington cal area farmers’ markets and get Jennifer Kahler, director of Counseling and Psycho- know that [they] are going to do everything they County Detention Center. Relatives matching bonus tokens to add to logical Services at George Mason University. can to help, to establish a rapport and to generate and friends will regain the ability their purchases. Virginia Coopera- “[Students] often have a misconception that trust and meet the needs of those we serve and our to visit loved ones in person begin- tive will be on-site at several local they only should seek help when or if their prob- communities.” ning May 1. Due to the COVID-19 farmers’ markets of Alexandria and pandemic, in-person visitation at See Bulletin, Page 9 8 v Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mother’s Day Employment the Arlington County Detention Opportunity Center has been suspended forOur Mothers Had Few more than a year .Visits will need to be scheduled in advance by the McLean family seeks person with special needs individual remanded to custody. care experience for activities with autistic son. They will be allowed one in-personRights, Much Courage visit a month on their designated Joseph is a child-like 22 year-old who is very From Page 3 day as the detention center safe- the time we had a chance to actually talk to each oth- compliant and pleasant. Emphasis on basic skills and ly and slowly returns to in-personporcelain boxes, her blue and white tea cups. But not er without the distractions of husbands, children, and activities: puzzles, games, enjoying the outdoors. visits. All visits are non-contact, jobs - it was only the last ten or so years of her life. that sew-on badge. That went with her to the end. The family is continually at home too, Covid safe, meaning family and friends are be- The things in her room told the story of a woman Even then, she was a product of the patriarchy that hind glass, minimizing the risk ofwho had survived the vicissitudes of life before wom- had shaped her. I asked her once whom she had voted fully vaccinated. Hours at your convenience; target exposure to COVID-19. en’s rights. It was hard for a woman born in 1928 to for in the last election and she said, “I don’t know: I is 10 hours per week; $25 per hour. If interested always let Mike (my step-father) tell me who to vote forge her way in the world. Women had just received please send resume at [email protected] DONATIONS the right to vote. Her father, who had squandered a for, do the finances, and fix the car.” And then she sat The Arlington Food Assistancefortune during the Depression, sent her brother to a down and wrote 50 postcards for Abigail Spanberger Center seeks local gardeners andfancy prep school because he was a boy, and she went and Elaine Luria, following their stories in the New farmers willing to grow and donateto the local high school because she was a girl. A two- York Times, calling me up to rejoice in their victories. fresh produce to the AFAC food pan-year college would be a finishing school where a man We had some wonderful times together those last try for local families in need as partwould be met. fifteen years. Falling Water for a weekend; going to of the Plot Against Hunger program. She “came out in society” at a lavish dinner dance, see the Lavender Farm outside London, Maine; the Each week, approximately 2,400the belle of the ball, poised and pleasing. And then Jersey Shore. India, where she went on a rickety plane client families visit AFAC to pick upshe got pregnant. Her mother had never talked to her to Amritsar and sat on the floor of the Golden Tem- supplemental groceries and freshabout birth control, or how easy it is to get pregnant ple eating lentil stew with her hands from a tin plate, fruits and vegetables are in high de-at 19. The young man said he would marry her. He and marveling at the cows, the music, the flowers, the mand. AFAC will provide free vege-was just home from the war and was going to grad- smells. India wasn’t too much for her: it was a Smor- table seeds to those who pledge touate from Yale University — and there was no other gasbord she dined on for months. I took her to Wy- donate produce from community oroption. She had my brother 8 months later and lived oming for my daughter’s wedding, and she swam in personal gardens. Visit https://afac.in an apartment near the university, while my father the Snake River, her trademark bathing cap in place. org/plot-against-hunger or contactstudied, rowed crew, partied, and urged her to learn We so often get the last years of our aging mothers [email protected] or 703-845-how to cook. wrong. We threw her a big party in New York when 8486. Seeds are available now at There was no day care or pre-school, and her hus- she turned 90. It was a loud restaurant on Fifth Av- AFAC, 2708 S. Nelson St., during band “wouldn’t allow her to work.” She studied the enue and she looked very small, surrounded by her regular business hours: Monday-Fri- popular magazines of the time on how to cook, how to children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, day 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sat- be a good housewife, and how to raise children while and very elegant in her tailored Christmas suit. She urdays 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Produce remaining an attractive spouse. Her second child was couldn’t hear a thing and when we walked a bit on the can also be donated at AFAC at the severely handicapped and bed bound, her third was street afterwards she was tired. I drove her home and hours listed above or at: saw her relief at being deposited back in her room. A v okay, her fourth was sick too. Arlington Courthouse Farm- No one told her how to stop the children from com- few days later she was feeling down and told me all er’s Market, Saturdays 8 a.m.-nooning. She went to church, she sang in the local Bach she had really wanted for her birthday was a subscrip- (look for the AFAC cooler near thechoir and worked in the Junior League to raise money tion to . I called it in that day. Master Gardener information ta-for charities. She packed her husband lunches for his What I saw as I packed out the room of the person ble). who was my biggest cheerleader, was that brave little v night shift job at the Bethlehem Steel Company. One Rock Springs UCC Church,child was institutionalized and one died. She endured girl her friends knew, that teenager who loved to don 5010 Little Falls Road, Sundays the abuse as it started, first verbal, then physical, tear- a pair of shorts and go biking, who wore that blazer 9 a.m.-noon only. (Look for the ing at the fabric of the family. There were no options at Colby College but never got around to sewing the donation bin on the Rock Springfor women in this situation in 1956. badge on. As I put my letters to her and my old camp Drive side of the church). I winced again when I phoned around to her old photos in a box, I saw the mother who taught me to Pet Food Bank. AWLA is estab-friends, many of whom I had never known, to tell love Puccini, who had an unwavering faith in God and lishing a Pet Food Bank to serve them gently of her passing, and they burst into tears, who thought of herself as ‘one of the girls’ at 92. qualifying residents of Arling-mourning “the best friend” she had been. My mother had remained elegant, strong, faithful ton County and the City of Falls “She had the best legs in Liberty High,” or, “She to her friends, and appreciative of the gift of life. The Church. In consideration of the was the leader of the gang on our street.” “Everyone more I put away her things and said good-bye, the effect financial obstacles have on looked up to her.” “She spoke so well in groups, she more apparent her legacy was. Aside from the assur- a pet owner’s ability to afford pet kept the audience riveted.” “She was elegant.” “She ance of her unconditional love, she instilled in me her care, the AWLA Pet Food Bank was courageous.” “She was a great practical jokester.” ability to forgive, her intense need for an adventure, program’s goal is to keep family This was not the person I knew. Divorce, single par- her love of a farmer’s market, a swim in a cold riv- pets out of shelters. If you are an enthood, working for an hourly wage, alcoholism, er. She bequeathed to me love of tending a garden, Arlington County or City of Falls losing her children, had taken its toll on that young Zinnias, the ocean, a simple dinner of carrot pudding Church resident and are in need of woman. and lamb, a good laugh, a warm squeeze of the hand, assistance in feeding your pet, fol- By the time she centered herself, it was 20 years affection to children, a healthy dose of curiosity, and low this link and fill out a pre-reg- later. She met and married the love of her life. And by knowing where the wild bittersweet grows. istration form. Visit goo.gl/forms/ s2FuFdaYWdZm4tPw2. Bulletin Board

From Page 3 GET MORE WITH SNAP tion of University Women) Work launched a web page with resourc- Arlington and Alexandria Farm-Arlington to provide more informa- Smart is free online for anyone es for the LGBTQ community. The ers’ Markets accept SNAP/EBT tion on SNAP and offer food tast- looking to learn how to negotiate new webpage compiles LGBTQ (Supplemental Nutrition Assis-ings, prizes and more at the Arling- a salary increase or promotion. resources on a variety of topics, tance Program) cards for pur-ton Farmers’ Market, N. 14th and Why is negotiation so important? including homelessness and hous- chases. SNAP/EBT customers canCourthouse Road (second Saturday AAUW’s research on the gender ing, domestic violence and sexual purchase farm fresh produce at lo-of the month) and Columbia Pike pay gap shows that, one year out assault, and health. There are also cal area farmers’ markets and getFarmers’ Market, 2820 Columbia of college, women are already paid topics specifically for teens and matching bonus tokens to add toPike (third Sunday of the month). significantly less than men. Visit youth — such as scholarship oppor- their purchases. Virginia Coopera- salary.aauw.org. tunities and school clubs — as well tive will be on-site at several localONGOING Arlington County, in partner- as ones targeted at seniors and old- farmers’ markets of Alexandria and Online Salary Negotiation Work- ship with the Human Rights Com- er adults, such as SAGE. Visit top- shop. AAUW (American Associa- mission’s Equality Task Force, has ics.arlingtonva.us/lgbtq-resources. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 v 9 Classified ArPets WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 Photo contributed

Wendy herself, celebrating her 21st birthday Wendy’s Celebration By Ashley Simpson Arlington Connection

ixteen years ago, Arling- ton resident George Hobart Swalked into the Animal Wel- fare League of Arlington’s animal shelter and, right away, a five-year- old Beagle/Jack Russell Terrier mix named Wednesday caught his eye. “When I saw her at the AWLA, I asked the staff if I could take her out in the backyard, and she im- mediately rolled over,” George re- called. “I gave her a belly rub, and that was it.” George brought her home that day and he and his wife, Marjorie, renamed their new dog Wendy to better fit her sunny disposition. And the rest is history – ongoing history. On Sunday, April 18th, Wendy’s tribe – George and Mar- jorie Hobart, George’s son, Ted Ho- bart, and Wendy’s foster parents, Kit and Gary Putnam – gathered to celebrate her 21st birthday. And, yes, you read that right: Wendy is 21 years old by human definition, making her 147 years old in some measure of “dog years.” “Wendy asked me to help her co- ordinate the celebration, so I was the event planner,” Ted said. “It was a small backyard celebration that included me, my parents, and Kit and Gary [who took her in full time amid the pandemic last year]. During this afternoon soiree, Wen- dy enjoyed her favorite – Gary’s delicious grilled chicken – and the rest of us enjoyed hot dogs, mac- aroni and cheese, cole slaw, and apple pie in her honor.” Decorations were hung and ev- eryone wore party hats, including Wendy. It was a party where each human in attendance had at least a hundred heartwarming memories of Wendy. “When Dad got Wendy, my brother and I fell in love with her immediately,” Ted said. “She just became a member of the family. See ArPets, Page 11 10 v Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com ArPets Cats in Business the Belfry Directory By KENNETH B. LOURIE Have I mentioned in print lately that we, WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM resident owners of “Belly Acres” in Burtonsville, are back to being a five-indoor-cat household? A few months back on a Sunday afternoon, my Photo contributed Call 703-549-0004 for advertising information wife Dina offered up the seemingly harmless explanation for her need to go out that day. She said she was going to the local CVS for a few things, things which I had no interest or need to ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL be involved in, so off she drove, with yours truly having nary a worry in the world. Little did I realize what actually was going on. I don’t recall exactly the time element be- cause when my wife goes to the store - of any Wendy herself, celebrating her kind, without a chaperone, I know from decades 21st birthday of experience that left to her own devices, she Photos contributed won’t be returning home anytime soon. So how ever long she was gone, I hadn’t a clue or a concern. I know the drill. She’s a big girl, but she is deliberate. At her main adult employer, the former Tivoli’s Restaurant in Roslyn, the owners LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING jokingly nicknamed her “Speedy,” because she wasn’t. Nonetheless, she was however, a valued, trusted and appreciated employee. By Ashley Simpson Eventually, I saw Dina drive down our driveway. She parked in her usual spot along- Arlington ConnectionGeorge and Marjorie Hobart, George’s son, Ted Hobart, and Wendy’s pandemic side the house. A few seconds later she walked foster parents, Kit and Gary Putnam gathered to celebrate Wendy’s 21st birthday. empty-handed into the house and asked for my ixteen years ago, Arling- assistance in unloading whatever was still in ton resident George Hobart the car. ‘Whatever,’ unbeknownst to me, were Swalked into the Animal Wel-Wendy’s Celebration Summer Cleanup... the two two-year-old tabby siblings she had just fare League of Arlington’s animal “rescued” waiting patiently in their cat carriers on the back seat. Dina could barely control shelter and, right away, a five-year-From Page 10 her excitement as she opened the back door old Beagle/Jack Russell Terrier mix She and Dad did everything together — he for me. At first glance, it became quite obvious named Wednesday caught his eye. what the ‘whatever’ was: it was Louie and Mia. I always brought her everywhere because she “When I saw her at the AWLA, I grabbed one of the cat carriers and walked into asked the staff if I could take herjust gets along with everyone. She is so per- the house. Dina had not really mentioned, until out in the backyard, and she im-sonable and only barks in joy or happiness, she did, that she had been wanting to increase mediately rolled over,” George re-never aggression. She is a wonderful soul.” our cat count to five after last year’s two losses: Biscuit and Chino, who both died within six called. “I gave her a belly rub, and In her 21 years, she has played quite a few roles in the lives of the people who love her months of one another, from complications due that was it.” to their diabetes. Brothers in more than arms, George brought her home that – and in the community. Biscuit and Chino, who were nicknamed “The day and he and his wife, Marjorie, For instance, she served as the indoor pool Buff Boys” due to their color, were the sweetest, renamed their new dog Wendy tomascot at Ballston’s Jefferson Independent Landscape Drainage Landscape Drainage most loving and affectionate cats one could ever hope to have. better fit her sunny disposition.Living and Retirement Home, where she lived with George and Marjorie until last Six months or so since the surviving brother, And the rest is history – ongoing Biscuit had succumbed to his illness, Dina began history. On Sunday, April 18th,April. She’s also been a motivating running her search for a new pair of cat siblings. After a Wendy’s tribe – George and Mar-buddy, even having participated in the inau- Happy Birthday, Wendy! few fits and starts and an application that was jorie Hobart, George’s son, Ted Ho-gural Arlington Bunny Hop 5K in 2018. rejected, Dina’s month-long bart, and Wendy’s foster parents, Through it all, she has made more friends and my two sons go over there as often as search was finally rewarded on this Sunday. She met the owners in Beltsville, Md. where Kit and Gary Putnam – gathered to than she could count on two paws. possible to play with her and walk her,” “She lived in Lyon Park with my dad and they exchanged the necessary pleasantries. The celebrate her 21st birthday. And, George said. “Kit and Gary lost a dog right couple had to give up the cats because their in- yes, you read that right: Wendy isMarjorie until they all went to live at the before the pandemic, so Wendy was as great fant daughter was allergic to them/their dander. 21 years old by human definition,Jefferson, where it was like she became the for them as they are for her. They love her as Regrettably they needed to find a new home for making her 147 years old in some official Jefferson dog,” Ted said. “Everyone much as we do. She takes several naps a day these two cats whom they had nurtured since they were kittens. They were very generous with measure of “dog years.” there knew and loved Wendy. There was with Gary.” even a musical about her, and Wendy herself If you ask Marjorie, those naps just might their supplies.They gave us wet and dry food, “Wendy asked me to help her co- litter, a litter box and some toys. After a few sad ordinate the celebration, so I wasmade a cameo.” be the key to Wendy’s longevity. goodbyes, Dina drove off for home, cats in tow the event planner,” Ted said. “It Wendy was also perhaps Lyon Park’s most “If she could tell you her secret to living a where cluelessly I had been minding my own was a small backyard celebrationpopular resident for the many years that the long and healthy life, I think she’d say it was business. that included me, my parents, andHobarts lived there. all about napping enthusiastically,” Marjorie We each brought in a cat carrier and once inside, opened their doors and introduced the Kit and Gary [who took her in full “She was literally the neighborhood pet- said. “She saves her energy for what’s most ting zoo,” George recalled. “Wendy was usu- cats to their new home. Out they scampered time amid the pandemic last year]. important to her, like food and playtime with and of course began to sniff. Our other cats During this afternoon soiree, Wen-ally the only four-legged guest at all the kids’ her people.” were nowhere to be found which given the dy enjoyed her favorite – Gary’sbirthday parties, and everyone loved to pet As she embraces her 22nd year of life, territorial disputes which often occur when new delicious grilled chicken – and the her. Then our next-door neighbors had a son Wendy will get plenty more time with these cats are introduced to an existing cat home, was fortunate in that their first steps were not in rest of us enjoyed hot dogs, mac-named Adam, and Wendy would visit him people – especially George, who has no frequently. One day when Adam was in kin- plans to stop regularly visiting the most spe- retreat from some unexpected cat attack. Though aroni and cheese, cole slaw, and I wasn’t of similar mind with respect to Dina’ apple pie in her honor.” dergarten, the teacher asked the class if any cial dog he’s ever known. feeling that we needed more cats, I have never- Decorations were hung and ev-of the students had a dog, and Adam raised “I think one of the reasons Wendy has such theless embraced their arrival. There is no doubt eryone wore party hats, includinghis hand and said, ‘I have a dog named Wen- a great personality and why she’s always that their presence has brought new life (no pun Wendy. It was a party where eachdy!’” smiling is because she absorbed some of intended) into our home. Now, everywhere I go, or look, there seems to be a cat to talk to (or a human in attendance had at least a Wendy moved to what the Hobarts call my dad’s energy,” Ted said. “He was always “Camp Putnam” (also in Arlington) last year hissing/growling fight to break up). No matter. It’s hundred heartwarming memories socially and civically involved in Arlington, nothing that experienced cat owners wouldn’t of Wendy. when coronavirus-related restrictions put a and Wendy went with him everywhere. They expect. And though I was definitely surprised “When Dad got Wendy, mydamper on her previously active social life at continue to be inseparable. They’re a match when I saw the two cat carriers secured in the brother and I fell in love with her The Jefferson. This transition, though, didn’t made in heaven.” backseat, now nearly two months later, I couldn’t imagine our life without them. immediately,” Ted said. “She just mean new owners for Wendy – it just meant Wendy was first featured in the Connec- became a member of the family.that her family got bigger. tion in August. Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for “I visit her every other day at the Putnams’ http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/ The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. See ArPets, Page 11no matter what the weather conditions are, news/2020/aug/27/arpets-story-wendy/ www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 v 11 12 v Arlington Connection v May 5-11, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com