Inside

Senior Living Living 2018 APRIL

Springfield Springfield ❖ Newington ❖ Kingstowne ❖ Franconia Senior Living

Meg Parker of Sterling does yoga with rabbits during a Bunny Yoga event sponsored by Friends of Rabbits at the Veterinary Holistic Center of Northern Virginia located in Springfield. Classifieds, Page 14Opinion, Page 2 v Entertainment, 12 Classifieds, Twitter: @SprConnection on Follow

A Bunny with Your Yoga News, Page 4 McAuliffe Leads Trump State Regulation Thwarted, Tax Town Hall Meeting Time for Local Action News, Page 3 Opinion, Page 2 Photo by Steve Hibbard/The Connection by Steve Photo April 5-11, 2018 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com Opinion Springfield

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Legislators: County Has Authority @SprConnect An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. To Ban Loaded Rifles on Road Published by Local Media Connection LLC

The following letter to all members of the Fairfax Roanoke, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg. to use their existing authority to foster gun 1606 King Street County Board of Supervisors from members of the Gen- We, members of the Virginia General Assem- safety and protect the driving public. Alexandria, Virginia 22314 eral Assembly from Fairfax, urges common sense action bly representing Fairfax County, do not believe We hereby ask that you initiate the processes on guns; the state legislators say Fairfax County has the Free digital edition delivered to authority to ben loaded shotguns and rifles on the roads. that there is a need for loaded shotguns or necessary to change Fairfax County’s ordi- your email box. Go to loaded rifles on Fairfax County’s public roads. nances to prohibit the transportation of loaded connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe ear Madam Chairman and Hon. High emotions that come with traffic conges- shotguns and loaded rifles to the fullest extent Supervisors: Section 15.2-915.2 of tion in our region have led to instances where possible under Virginia Law. NEWS DEPARTMENT: Dthe Code of Virginia gives all local firearms have been discharged in incidents of We look forward to working with you on this [email protected] governments in Virginia the au- road rage. Requiring that shotguns and rifles important initiative. Kemal Kurspahic thority to ban loaded shotguns and loaded are not loaded at the beginning of a trip will Sen. Scott Surovell (D-36) Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 rifles on public highways. help to reduce the potential for such split-sec- Sen. Richard Saslaw (D-35) [email protected] § 15.2-915.2. Regulation of transportation ond, life-changing decisions to occur in a mo- Sen. Barbara Favola (D-31) of a loaded rifle or shotgun. ment of anger. Such an ordinance will also help Sen. David Marsden (D-37) Andrea Worker Contributing Writer The governing body of any county or city may to protect the driver and passengers, includ- Sen. Jennifer Wexton (D-33) [email protected] by ordinance make it unlawful for any person ing children, as well as law enforcement from Sen. George Barker (D-39) to transport, possess or carry a loaded shotgun the accidental discharge of one of these weap- Del. Kaye Kory (D-38) Jean Card or loaded rifle in any vehicle on any public street, ons. For example, in 2006, Virginia State Del. Mark Keam (D-35) Production Editor [email protected] road, or highway within such locality. Trooper Kevin C. Manion was killed after a Del. Rip Sullivan (D-48) A similar ordinance has been enacted in the loaded rifle went off during a wreck cleanup Del. Ken Plum (D-36) counties of Fauquier, Loudoun, Madison, in Clark County. Del. Alfonso Lopez (D-49) ADVERTISING: Albemarle, Chesterfield, Clarke, James City, We recognize that the Fairfax County Board Del. David Bulova (D-37) For advertising information e-mail: King George, New Kent, Northumberland, of Supervisors considered this issue in 2015. Del. Karrie K. Delaney (D-67) [email protected] Surry, Warren and the cities of Alexandria, However given recent events, we believe that Del Paul Krizek (D-44) 703-778-9431 Fredericksburg, Petersburg, Richmond, it is important at this time for all our localities Del. Jennifer Boysko (D-86) Steve Hogan Display Advertising, 703-778-9418 [email protected]

State Regulation Thwarted, Time for Local Action Debbie Funk National Sales 703-778-9444 By Scott Surovell limit ammunition magazines to 20 anyone on the Terrorist Watch List from pur- [email protected] State Senator (D-36) rounds after Jared Loughner shot chasing a firearm. It died in committee. Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle This session, I also supported Sen. Adam David Griffin Marketing Assistant he March for Life put a spot- Giffords. A committee killed the bill Ebbin’s effort session to ban bump stocks. The 703-778-9431 Tlight on the country’s and on a 5-0 bipartisan vote. Senate Courts Committee passed the bill, but [email protected] Virginia’s permissive fire- Current Virginia law prohibits the Senate Finance Committee killed it. The arms regulation culture. The young people who have been adjudicated House of Delegates killed an identical bill. Classified & Employment Advertising people’s outburst of civic activism mentally ill and involuntarily com- I fought the repeal of Virginia’s “One Gun a 703-778-9431 and the new efforts of others who mitted or ordered into outpatient Month” law enacted in 2012. I have also fought have not been very politically active mental health treatment by a court bills to allow guns in churches, restrict employ- is inspiring. from owning a firearm. In 2014, I introduced ers’ ability to limit concealed firearms on their Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm Historically, I have proudly supported rea- legislation to add ammunition to that prohibi- property, streamline the sale of machine guns [email protected] sonable, bipartisan measures to allow Sunday tion. A committee killed that bill. and flamethrowers, allow “constitutional @MaryKimm hunting, reduce fees and cut paperwork for Since 2014, I have repeatedly introduced carry” (concealed carry without a permit), al- Executive Vice President concealed carry gun hold- legislation requiring universal background low firearms in airports, give fired prosecutors Jerry Vernon Commentary ers. Unfortunately, sensible checks, including The Coalition to Stop Gun concealed weapon privileges without permits, 703-549-0004 measures to prevent fire- Violence’s signature universal background make concealed carry permit information se- [email protected] arm violence have been at check bill. It contains numerous fair exceptions cret and to make Virginia a “Stand Your Editor in Chief a stalemate in Virginia. Until there is broader but died every session, often on a bipartisan Ground” state. Steven Mauren political change in Virginia, we must take some vote. My efforts are examples of reasonable steps Managing Editor steps at the local level. In the 2015 Session, I fought measures to we can take to prevent future, senseless gun Kemal Kurspahic Currently, Virginia law allows local govern- grant universal reciprocity for out-of-state con- violence. Gun violence must stop, as those who Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, ments to ban loaded shotguns and rifles, in- cealed weapon permits by adding requirements marched a few weeks ago across the country Ali Khaligh cluding semi-automatic rifles like AR-15’s, on that reciprocal states have restrictions paral- so eloquently expressed, especially those im- Production Manager: public highways. Nineteen localities, includ- leling Virginia’s prohibitions for the mentally pressive teenagers who stepped forward and Geovani Flores ing Alexandria and Loudoun and Fauquier ill, drug addicts and dealers, domestic assault pointed a finger at the elected officials who counties, have adopted this approach. I can convicts, violent criminals, sexual batterers, dodge and dawdle. CIRCULATION think of no reason anyone needs to carry a drunk drivers, those illegally present in the Please contact me at [email protected] Circulation Manager: loaded AR-15 or a shotgun on a Northern Vir- United States, people dishonorably discharged if you have any feedback. It is an honor to serve Ann Oliver ginia highway. from the military, individuals with pending as your state senator. [email protected] Although, I raised this issue with the Fairfax felonies and fugitives. The House of Delegates County Board of Supervisors in 2015, they killed every one of my attempts on a mostly chose not to act. I have asked them to revisit party-line vote. Unfortunately, former Gover- Write this again. In Prince William County, nor Terry McAuliffe signed a universal reciproc- Letters to the Editor Woodbridge Supervisor Frank Principi has ity bill into law after Attorney General Mark The Connection 1606 King St. agreed to propose an ordinance. Herring invalidated existing reciprocity agree- Alexandria VA 22314 Since 2009, I have also advocated other ments with over a dozen states and forced a Call: 703-917-6444. measured approaches to reduce firearm vio- compromise. By e-mail: [email protected] lence: In 2012, I cosponsored legislation to In 2016, I introduced legislation prohibiting

2 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected] McAuliffe Leads Trump Tax Town Hall Meeting Panelists offered “This was the worst explanations of how piece of legislation I Trump’s new tax law have ever seen will affect Americans. passed by Congress and signed into law By Steve Hibbard The Connection by the President. It is

ormer Virginia Gov. Terry going to cripple our McAuliffe headlined a Trump Tax government going F Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, March 27, 2018, in front of George Mason University students with a down the road.” panel of four local business leaders. The — Former Virginia Gov. Terry panelists offered explanations of how Photo by Steve Hibbard/The Connection McAuliffe Trump’s new tax law will affect Americans The panelists for the Trump Tax Town Hall Meeting included (from left): and what they can do about it. McAuliffe, Nicole Gill, Tax March Executive Director; former Virginia Gov. Terry away my daughter’s lifeline in order to give the former Democratic National Commit- McAuliffe; Muneer Baig, SYSUSA Small Business owner; Anna Chu, Na- tax cuts to big corporations and million- tee Chairman, is now a visiting professor at tional Women’s Law Center; and Emanuel Nieves, Prosperity Now Senior aires. Now, how is that fair?” GMU’s Schar School for Policy and Govern- Policy Manager. Anna Chu, Vice President for Strategy and ment. He also ran Hillary Clinton’s Policy for the National Women’s Law 2008 presidential campaign. Center, said that by the year 2027, ac- McAuliffe said it’s the conse- tually 83 percent of the benefits from quences of tax cuts that are the most this bill would go to the very top earn- damaging. “It’s going to really ers in the U.S., and at the same time, wreak havoc on health care, wreak they’re increasing the deficit by $1.5 havoc on education, going to affect trillion. Medicare, Medicaid, Social Secu- Calling the bill a “trickle-down rity,” he said. “This was the worst nightmare,” Chu said: “I’m going to piece of legislation I have ever seen posit that what workers actually need passed by Congress and signed into and what families need is a wage in- law by the President. It is going to crease. Our bills are going up every cripple our government going down year. Our rent is going up every year. the road. It is going to starve our College tuition is going up. I have a vital resources and instead of invest- kid and childcare is extremely expen- ing in our future, it’s going to hurt Nicole Gill, moderator sive. And that’s going up every single our future.” Former Virginia Gov. and Tax March Executive Marta Connor of Clifton year. So, what we need to feel secure He added: “What they (Congress) Terry McAuliffe Director. is the promise of a wage increase that did was they rushed this at the end we will get year after year after year.” of the day in the middle of the night Muneer Baig, SYSUSA Small Busi- because they had no legislative suc- ness owner, added: “Who is benefit- cesses. Trump had been finishing up ting from this [tax bill]? It’s not me. a year in office with nothing to show … The system that we are creating out for it. So, this was a political play. of this tax bill is not helping the middle But I’ll make the argument they are class. It’s not helping the small busi- going to pay a political price for nesses. It is slowly killing the middle this.” class and small businesses.” Kara Kline, president of the George Mason Democrats, who TAKING A QUESTION from the au- opened the talks, said: “The Trump dience on “What specific actions can tax will be a disaster nationwide. people do now to change or repeal the The tax plan recently passed by Con- Trump tax as it’s written?” Emmanuel gress will cut taxes for our country’s Nieves, Prosperity Now Senior Policy wealthiest individuals and corpora- Emmanuel Nieves, Manager, said: “Attending events like tions while simultaneously ignoring Anna Chu, National Muneer Baig, SYSUSA Prosperity Now Senior this is one thing; being parts of orga- those who need help the most.” Women’s Law Center Small Business owner Policy Manager nizations like Tax March — like the She continued: “Instead of help- Trump Tax repeal campaign. Holding ing those of us who are trying to afford an MODERATOR Nicole Gill, Executive Di- the-clock care thru Medicaid, added: “She your elected officials accountable; going to education, Congress is looking out for the rector of Tax March, said one of the ways can’t walk, talk, or use hands and also has Town Halls. ... And showing up at the polls millionaires and billionaires of this country the Trump tax harms families is by taking seizures. Her condition requires hours of in November.” and that is wrong. This tax plan raises taxes away their health care. She said the Con- daily treatments and interventions and costs Added Chu: “I think the members of Con- on 100 million American families, which gressional Budget Office estimates that 13 several hundred thousand dollars per year.” gress need to hear from us. They need to equals more than half of our entire coun- million Americans will lose health care as a She continued: “The Trump tax bill hurts hear from you that this is an issue that you try. Yet, somehow the top 0.1 percent will result of the tax bill. the Affordable Care Act. The plan was to care about — that you want them to care receive tax cuts of $150,000 a year, and that Marta Connor of Clifton, whose daugh- cut Medicaid to finance the $1.5 trillion about. So, call your member of the House; doesn’t sound fair to me.” ter Caroline, 8, has Rett Syndrome, a neu- Trump tax bill. So, let me be clear — Re- call your Senators to keep on fighting. Keep rological condition that requires around- publican members of Congress are taking calling and ‘Remember in November.’” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 3 News

Support. Information. Hope. Saturday, April 14 2018 Date: Saturday, May 12, 2018 Saturday, June 9, 2018

Time: 9:00-9:30a.m.-Registration 9:30-1:00 p.m.–Workshop Photos by Steve Hibbard/The Connection Duff & Kronfeld, P.C. About 50 people took part in the yoga class. Place: Fair Oaks Commerce Center 11320 Random Hills Road/Suite 630 Fairfax, VA 22030 A Bunny with Your Yoga Please join us for coffee at our Second Saturday Divorce Workshop and get the information and support from professionals: a family law attorney, a financial advisor, a family therapist, a private investigator, an estate planning attorney and other professionals Friends of Rabbits holds fundraiser at the who will help guide you through the divorce process. Speakers vary for each workshop. Registration at the door; however, pre-registration Veterinary Holistic Center of Northern is recommended as space is limited. Virginia in Springfield. Online Registration: www.secondsaturdaynova.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (703) 591-7475 bout 50 people attended a Bunny Yoga event sponsored by the AFriends of Rabbits at the Veteri- nary Holistic Center of Northern Virginia in Springfield. Instructors Shannon and Colt Meraw of Fairfax taught a yoga class as 20 or so bunnies mingled among the “down dog” and “crescent moon” poses. The event was a fundraiser for Friends of Rabbits, an animal rescue in the metropoli- tan area. Dr. Jordan Kocen of Fairfax Sta- tion donated the use of his facility. “About half the class are rabbit people and the other half are regular yoga students who thought this would be something different and a lot of fun, especially right now be- fore Easter, which is a big time when people buy rabbits,” said Mara Hurwitt of Fairfax Station, a Board Member with Friends of Sarah Murray of Springfield pets Rabbits. “Bunjamin.” “We’re raising funds for our foster rab- bits and we’re also educating the public, and rabbits from shelters throughout Virginia we’re having fun while we’re doing it,” she and Maryland and takes them off death said. The event raised about $1,000, which row; it just rescued six rabbits from Las Ve will be used to pay for the rabbits’ veteri- nary bills. The Friends of Rabbits also pulls See Yoga, Page 14

Jordan Dudderar of Annapolis and Summer Donaldson of Falls Church with Nora and Rocket the rabbits.

4 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SeniorSenior Springfield LivingLiving APRIL 2018 Franconia ❖ KingstowneKingstowne ❖ Newington

www.ConnectionNewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC online at Springfieldwww.connectionnewspapers.com Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 5 Senior Living Master Suite Enables Aging-in-Place Solution addresses long-term needs arising from spouse’s health.

By John Byrd

red and Liz Saalfeld had occupied their four-bedroom 2,800-square- Ffoot Colonial in Springfield for nearly five decades when the un- expected caused them to reconsider basic housing needs. Without warning, Liz Saalfeld suffered a heart attack. Her mobil- ity — previously hampered by arthritis — now became seriously compromised. Looking ahead, a wheelchair-access plan also now seemed prudent to Fred Saalfeld, who increasingly relied a pair of canes to The Saalfelds added a wheelchair friendly master suite to the four bed- get around. room colonial they had occupied for over 50 years. The 1,200-square- The shower is equipped with The proposed retrofit was a tall order, foot addition extends from the old rear elevation into a formerly hilly grab bars, a bench and hand- however. The master bedroom was on the backyard. The new addition includes a laundry, a spacious ADA (Ameri- held nozzles — all of which second floor; the laundry room in the base- cans with Disabilities Act) master suite with “his” and “her” wardrobe Fred Saalfeld uses in his daily ment. There was an open carport, but no closets. The French doors access a flagstone patio, and newly land- bathing routine. extra storage space. The master bathroom scaped grounds surrounded by a privacy fence. The addition also has a was just too narrow for a wheelchair — as- dedicated HVAC system in rooms where the couple spend most of suming there was a way to mount the stairs. their time. Equally relevant, the home’s surrounding first floor creating a seamless enlargement of the ex- The master bathroom (at 200 square feet) landscaping was undeveloped, with a steep At 1,200 square feet, the new master suite isting house. Interior floors were, likewise, is a masterpiece of efficiency and warmth. hill in the backyard. There were places to addition features a 14-foot cathedral ceil- milled and finished to blend with the hard- The door from the bedroom is 32” wide with sit, but no quiet places to stretch out and ing and double French doors that segue to wood floors in the existing structure. the 90 degree swing radius required by the relax. a flagstone patio. To create the needed 28' “The interior style is very consistent ADA-regulations — yet the interior design Acting decisively, Saalfeld sought fresh x 42' footprint, Nazemian excavated down throughout,” Saalfeld saiud. “It’s very much is soft and earthy, porcelain tiling offset by ideas from local remodelers — eventually three feet from the existing surface, re- one house.” walnut cabinet facings and a granite-topped deciding on Michael Nash Kitchens and moved six metric tons of earth and — to To ensure natural light and comfort, vanity. Homes who had previously remodeled his achieve the necessary compaction — Nazemian specified low-E, double Argon- Best yet, a series of well-defined walk- kitchen. planted a grove of Tock’s shrubbery. filled glass for all windows including a pair ways link garden focal points with a mid- “Michael Nash was very responsive to our To control water runoff, designers intro- of double French doors that lead to the pa- yard gazebo. Surrounded by a privacy fence, needs, and really understood Aging-In-Place duced a French drain and swell linked to tio. A smaller louvered door was created the grounds are a nicely protected Eden, considerations,” Saalfeld said. an infiltration trench. for the family’s Irish setter who exercises in perfect for quiet enjoyment. Part of that responsiveness arose from With the foundation issues resolved, at- a side yard. For more information, call 703-641-9800 Sonny Nazemian, Michael Nash’s founder tention turned to the new addition’s space A new split-system HVAC unit was in- or visit MichaelNashKitchens.com and president, and a Universal Design Cer- plan and design. Exterior brick cladding was stalled to provide the new addition with tified Remodeler (UDCR), who commenced matched to the home’s original masonry dedicated heat and air control. The solu- John Byrd has been writing about home drafting design ideas with the tion proved to be a money- improvement for 30 years. He can be reached at 703-715-8006, www.HomeFrontsNews.com or Saalfelds on the first meeting. saver, since it concentrates [email protected]. Send photos of interesting “Aging-in-place (AIP) is be- temperature requirements remodeling projects to: [email protected]. coming one of the high-de- mand remodeling services segments,” Nazemian said. “But it’s a specialty area — and requires staying on top of ever-evolving ADA (American with Disabilities Act) regula- tions, and strict building codes.” From the first, Nazemian pictured an addition extend- ing from the rear elevation. The Saalfeld would gain ex- panded sleeping quarters and each spouse would have their own walk-in closet. A wheel- chair-friendly bathroom re- With a pair of walk-in wardrobe closets on the left, and plete with in-shower bench, access to a first level laundry and master bedroom on the grab bars and hand-held body right, the access corridor from the main house is spacious. spray nozzles would be spe- The French doors open into the dining room. Michael Nash The louvered door on the right is for the family’s Irish cially designed. The laundry matched the original hardwood flooring to create a seam- setter, who exercises in the side yard. All doors are at least room would be moved to the less unity between the old house and the new addition. 32 inches wide and have a 90 degree clearing width.

6 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 7 Senior Living Preparing for Senior Olympics Is a Way of Life for Some

By Shirley Ruhe added to the competition this year 19 bocce competitors. But for the The Connection including canasta, croquet and last several years he has been guar- beach ball wallyball. Herb Levitan, anteed a win because there was no t may seem like a long time a member of the NVSO Board, ex- one else in his age group compet- until September when the plains beach ball wallyball is like ing. I36th year of the Northern volleyball but played on a racquet- Last year’s oldest competitor was Virginia Senior Olympics ball court with a beachball which 101 years old with her sport of (NVSO) kicks off. is bigger and softer than a volley- choice was duplicate bridge. But not for 83-year-old Chuck ball. Levitan is currently prepar- Seniors participate for many rea- Toftoy from Arlington, who often ing for the Virginia senior games sons — some because they like to enters 20 events, and says he prac- coming up soon where he swims stay busy and fit, others because tices all year long. four freestyle events. they are returning to a high school Opening ceremonies for this Alease Brooks, 85, has been or college sport, some because year’s events are scheduled for competing for 14 years and par- they like the community of friends Sept. 15 at 9 a.m. at Thomas ticipated in 13 different sports in they see every year and others be- Jefferson Community Center in Ar- 2017. But her favorite is pickleball. cause they still “like to dream big.” lington, and the competition is Her children have bought her T- This year’s games are expected scheduled to end on Sept. 26. shirts in different colors for her to be held in 29 venues including The NVSO began in 1982 with games and often come to watch community centers, parks, high about 80 people competing; last her and cheer her on. schools and other locations across year there were 752 competitors Toftoy says this year he plans to Northern Virginia. signed up for one or more of the reduce the number of sports he Registration for this year’s NVSO 70 events offered. The events enters so that he can concentrate will open June 1. This year NVSO ranged from tennis, baseball on pickleball since he plans to en- is hoping to bring back the 5k run throw, bocce, orienteering, swim- ter singles, doubles and mixed and looking for an event director ming and diving, golf, corn hole competition this year. for that event. Those interested in toss, volleyball, and pickleball. Last year, 93-year old Henry volunteering can call 703-403- Three new sports have been Coletto from Oakton was one of 5360.

DR. GENE SWEETNAM DR. GRACE CHANG OPTOMETRISTS

• Family & Pediatric Vision Care • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Treatment of Eye Diseases • 21 years Naval Service, 6 years Active Duty • Laser Vision Consultants • Over a thousand frames in stock • We carry all major brands of contact lenses • In-house lab Most Insurances Accepted: Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Care First, Medicare, Tricare In-network Doctor, Cigna, DavisVision, Vision One Discount, Avesis, Aetna HMO/PPO/POS, PHCS, VSP® Network Doctor, EyeMed Vision Care, United Healthcare, VA Medicaid WE WELCOME YOUR DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION 5206A Rolling Rd. Burke Professional Center Burke, VA 22015 703-425-2000 www.drsweetnam.com • www.sightforvision.com

8 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Senior Living

Kim Aderman competes in last year’s diving match.

A healthy body starts with a healthy mouth!

At Peter K. Cocolis, Jr. and Associates, we believe Washingtonian magazine, Drs. Cocolis and optimum oral health is key to total body health and DaSilva exceed industry standards in the well-being. These days, going to the dentist is not time they dedicate to continuing edu- just about taking good care of your teeth; it is cation and service. Our skilled and about taking good care of your health. Problems compassionate team pairs patient in your mouth can be signs of trouble elsewhere education with the latest dental in your body. Your oral exam reveals important techniques and technology, offer- early warning signs for many total-body condi- ing an extensive array of dental tions including diabetes, oral cancer and high services including digital x-rays, blood pressure. injection-free laser procedures, CAD-cam same-day porcelain Whether your family seeks general preventive crowns, tooth whitening, Invisalign, and maintenance, cosmetic, or advanced restorative and veneers. We offer a variety of sedation implant dentistry to transform your smile’s function and options including oral sedation and nitrous oxide appearance, Drs. Cocolis and DaSilva are renowned by (sleep dentistry) and are dedicated to easing all aspects of peers and patients alike for exceptional personalized care in a your dental experience. friendly, safe and state-of-the-art-environment. Visit us on the Web or give us a call to discover what our Consistently named “Top Dentist” in patients are saying and to make your appointment. Northern Virginia magazine and among the “Best Dentists in the Metropolitan Area” in Our Services: • Routine cleanings and • Endodontic (root canal) therapy check-ups • Periodontal (gum) therapy • Fillings and sealants including scaling and • Sedation “sleep” dentistry root planing • Nitrous oxide • Custom partial and full dentures • Crowns, bridges, inlays, • Custom occlusal and onlays sport guards • Extractions X-rays not included. Not valid with • Implants • TMJ/TMD therapy insurance submission. • Bonding and veneers • In-office professional whitening • Invisalign (clear braces without the wires) Peter K. Cocolis, Jr., DMD & Associates 5803 Rolling Road, Suite 211 Peter K. Cocolis, Jr., DMD, MAGD Springfield, VA 22152 Emily A. DaSilva, DDS, FAGD 703-912-3800 • www.smiles4va.com Monday–Thursday 8 A.M.–5 P.M.; Friday* 8 A.M.–1 P.M. *Once monthly for sedation appointments www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 9 Senior Living Calendar

Submit civic/community announcements at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 Twinbrook Joy Of Living for Seniors. 11 a.m.-noon at St site from 8 a.m.-noon. Documents will be ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and Road, Fairfax. Join the Shepherd’s Center of Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 432 Van Buren St., shredded on-site free of charge. No quantity artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at Fairfax every Monday for 6 weeks. Start with Herndon. As part of an ongoing series, St limit. No plastics or electronics. Light least two weeks before event. gentle exercise, followed by speakers on topics Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Herndon, will refreshments and lunch will be served. such as health, history, community, personal hold a presentation about Israel/Palestine and Registration is required at aarp.cvent.com/ development, finance, and more. Afternoon the Two State Solution, followed by a light OSSFairfax or call 1-877-926-8300. FRIDAY/APRIL 6 breakouts are book club, bridge or canasta. lunch. Donation offerings for lunch accepted. Living with Alzheimer’s: For Middle-Stage Coffee Social at Tallwood, Osher Lifelong Bring a brown bag lunch. $30. Register at 703- RSVP to [email protected]. Caregivers. 10 a.m.-noon at Ravensworth Learning Center. at 10 a.m. at Tallwood 426-2824, or visit www.scfbva.org. Baptist Church, 5100 Ravensworth Road, WEDNESDAY/APRIL 18 Annandale. Part three of three-part series. Join Campus, 4210 Roberts Road, Fairfax. Welcome TUESDAY/APRIL 10 new members, make new friends and kick-off Legal and Financial Considerations for the Alzheimer’s Association for this free three- spring term in Fairfax with coffee, refreshments Dementia Caregiver Support Groups. Noon- Dementia. 1-3 p.m. at Insight Memory Care part series and hear caregivers and professionals and friendly conversation. The event will include 1:30 p.m. Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke Center, 3953 Pender Drive, Suite 100, Fairfax. discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, nd a quick presentation. For more information or to sponsors a monthly meeting on the 2 Tuesday Many people are unprepared to deal with the effective and comfortable care in the middle register, visit bit.ly/2H8AZy1 of each month for caregivers to learn and to legal and financial consequences of dementia. stage of Alzheimer’s. For more information and share with others experiencing similar Learn about legal documents, resources to help to register, call 800-272-3900. FRIDAY & MONDAY/APRIL 6 & 9 challenges. Before attending, contact the cover future care costs, and where to turn for Operation Medicine Cabinet Cleanout. 10 AARP Smart Drivers Classes. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at facilitator, Eileen Thompson at 703-451-8626 or assistance. Contact Lindsey Vajpeyi, a.m.-2 p.m. at all Fairfax County Police Stations. Oakton United Methodist Church, 2951 Chain [email protected]. [email protected], 703-204-4664 Drop off medications (pills or liquids only, no or visit InsightMCC.org. pressurized canisters or needles). Disposal is Bridge Road, Oakton. A refresher course for THURSDAY/APRIL 12 drivers age 50 and older. $15 AARP members, Community Meeting. 7:30 p.m. in the Great free, convenient, confidential, and safe handling $20 for non-members payable on the fiirst day Adventures in Learning Open House. 10 Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike A, Great of unused or expired medications. Visit of class. Visit www.scov.org/files/ a.m.-noon at UUCF, 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Falls. The Great Falls Civic Association Land Use www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services- 2018_04_aarp_smart_driver_flyer.pdf. Call Oakton. Bounce into Spring with a new revved & Zoning Committee will present to the general board/. instructor David Young to register at 703-591- up brain. Cost is $45. Classes begin April 19- community regarding a new senior care facility 1847. June 14 (no class May 3). Visit www.scov.org. on Walker Road in Great Falls proposed by Verity Commercial and IntegraCare. Visit ONGOING SATURDAY/APRIL 7 SATURDAY/APRIL 14 gfca.org. The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior Community Shredding Event. 8 a.m.-noon at I- women’s softball league, is looking for players. Caregiver Bootcamp. 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at Insight THURSDAY/APRIL 19 Memory Care Center, 3953 Pender Drive, Suite 95 Landfill, 9850 Furnace Road, Lorton. Shred Any woman over the age of 40 is encouraged to 100, Fairfax. Join IMCC for a special day-long event is open to Fairfax County residents along “Behind My Wings.” 7:30 p.m. at Amphora join. All skill levels are welcome. Games are on training event covering essential caregiving with residents of the towns and cities. Restaurant, 377 Maple Ave. West, Vienna. Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in topics. Contact Lindsey Vajpeyi, Documents from businesses will not be accepted. Sponsored by Chapter 227 Vietnam Veterans of Vienna, April-October. Other activities during [email protected], 703-204-4664 All cars must be in line by noon. Residents will America Inc. BJ Elliott will discuss her the year. Visit www.goldengirls.org. or visit InsightMCC.org. be asked to remain in their vehicles. Visit stewardess service on commercial flights (aka Burke Lake Seniors Golf League seeks Living with Alzheimer’s: For Middle-Stage www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mountvernon/secure- Freedom Bird) that transported troops to and members. Interested golfers are invited to join Caregivers. 10 a.m.-noon at Ravensworth document-shredding-event. from Vietnam. Free. Call Len Ignatowski at 703- the Burke Lake Seniors Golf League. Must be 55 Baptist Church, 5100 Ravensworth Road, Living with Alzheimer’s: For Middle-Stage 255- 0353 or visit the web page at and older, enjoy playing golf, meeting new Annandale. Part one of three-part series. Join Caregivers. 10 a.m.-noon at Ravensworth www.vva227.org. people and having an all–-around good time. the Alzheimer’s Association for this free three- Baptist Church, 5100 Ravensworth Road, Caregivers Support Group. 10-11:30 a.m. at Reserved tee times on Tuesday and Thursday part series and hear caregivers and professionals Annandale. Part two of three-part series. Join UUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregation of mornings at the Par 3 Burke Lake Golf Course discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, the Alzheimer’s Association for this free three- Fairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter Mill on Ox Road. Annual dues for the season – April effective and comfortable care in the middle part series and hear caregivers and professionals Road, Oakton. For caregivers to adult family 1 through October 31 – are $20 plus green fees. stage of Alzheimer’s. For more information and discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, members with dementia. First and third For more information, call Charlie Ryan 703- to register, call 800-272-3900. effective and comfortable care in the middle Thursdays of every month. Hosted by Shepherd’s 690-4227. stage of Alzheimer’s. For more information and Center of Oakton-Vienna, scov.org. Contact Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke sponsors MONDAYS/APRIL 9-MAY 14 to register, call 800-272-3900. facilitator Jack Tarr at 703-821-6838 or a monthly meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of each Adventures ‘N Learning. 9:30 a.m.-2:45 p.m. at [email protected]. month, noon-1:30 p.m., for caregivers to learn TUESDAY/APRIL 17 and to share with others experiencing similar FRIDAY/APRIL 20 challenges. Before attending, contact the Ms. Virginia Senior America Pageant facilitator, Eileen Thompson at 703-451-8626 or Orientation. Meeting held in Falls Church. [email protected]. Free orientation for senior women interested in Haven of Northern Virginia provides support, joining the program. Presentation will explain compassion, information and resources to the how to enroll and prepare for the pageant. The bereaved and seriously ill. To become a Haven pageant will be held in Falls Church on July 7, volunteer, please call 703-941-7000 to request 2018. Contact State Director Rebecca Tebbs an orientation. Volunteers must complete a 30- Nunn at 804-435-3704. hour training and commit to one year of service answering Haven phones (2.5 hours weekly). TUESDAY/APRIL 24 Next training is scheduled for fall 2017. Home & Garden Tour. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tour four RSVP, a volunteer network for seniors seeking homes and gardens in Great Falls, Vienna and service opportunities in and around Fairfax McLean – from a “quilt garden” at a 1750 home County, Arlington County and the City of to a garden and cottage designed for retirement. Alexandria, offers a wide array of opportunities Advance tickets are $40 by April 17; tickets on for volunteers 55 and older. RSVP volunteers day of tour are $50 at Meadowlark Gardens. enjoy flexible schedules, optional mileage and Tickets sold at tour homes and the Great Falls meal reimbursement and are invited to Library. Contact Garden Club of Fairfax at volunteer group projects and social gatherings. [email protected]. Visit To sign up for an upcoming orientation, email www.vagardenweek.org. Carly Hubicki at [email protected] Social Security – Know Your Options to or call RSVP at 703-403- 5360. To learn more Maximize Your Benefits. 12:30-2 p.m. at about RSVP, visit www.rsvpnova.org. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Learn strategies Volunteers Needed. PRS is looking for that you can use to potentially maximize your empathetic and caring volunteers to make phone benefit. Presented by Sarah Graham. One lesson calls to older adults who may be feeling socially for 1 hour, 30 minutes. Cost is $7/$5 MCC isolated. The commitment is one 3-hour shift per district residents. week for one year. Located in Arlington. Ages 21 & up. Intensive training provided. Learn more WEDNESDAY/APRIL 25 and apply: prsinc.org/carering-volunteering/. A Matter of Balance. 10 a.m.-noon at Oakton Questions? Email [email protected]. Church of the Brethren, Fellowship Hall, 10025 The Northern Virginia Long Term Care Courthouse Road, Vienna. An award-winning Ombudsman Program needs volunteer program designed to manage falls and increase advocates for residents in nursing homes and activity levels. Meets for eight weeks. Free. Class assisted living facilities. Contact Lisa Callahan at size limited to 14 participants. To register, 703-324-5861, TTY 711 or email contact Casey Tarr at 703-850-4131 or [email protected]. Also visit eileentarr1@verizon. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/ Senior Movie Day. 10 a.m. at Bow Tie Cinemas, ltcombudsman/ Reston Town Center, Reston. Featured movie is Fairfax County needs volunteers to drive older “Murder on the Orient Express.” Refreshments adults to medical appointments and wellness and door prizes provided prior to movie. Free to programs. For these and other volunteer 55-plus. Email: [email protected]; call 703- opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or 435-6577 or visit www.reston.org. visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click on Volunteer Solutions. SATURDAY/APRIL 28 Respite Care volunteers give family caregivers of Scam Jam and Shred Event. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at a frail older adult a well-deserved break so they Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 can go shopping, attend a doctor’s appointment Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. Free fraud or just have coffee with a friend. Volunteers visit fighting event. AARP Virginia and Fairfax and oversee the safety of the older adult for a County Government’s Silver Shield task force are few hours each month. Support and training are bringing together top experts and law provided. Contact 703-324-7577, TTY 711, or enforcement officials to present at a free [email protected]. informational Scam Jam. Shred truck will be on- 10 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 11 Calendar

Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged.

ONGOING FUN-Exercise Thursdays, noon-12:50 p.m. at Grace Presbyterian Church Family Room, 7434 Bath St., Springfield. Inova certified exercise instructor leads a moderate level exercise class with music and current events conversation. Muscle, Balance, Strength Training using stretch bands and weights both standing and seated exercises. Instructor donation is $5. [email protected] or 703- 499-6133. Exercise Program Mondays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. year-round at Photo by ECHO Yard Sale Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. The Shoppers browse the many tables of goods for sale at an exercises are for strength, balance earlier ECHO Yard Sale. and maintaining limberness. Contact SCFB office at 703-426-2824 for more information. English Conversation Groups ECHO Yard Sale weekly at George Mason, Burke Join the hunt for treasures at ECHO’s semi-annual yard sale. Toys, fashion ac- Centre, and Lorton Libraries Practice cessories, collectibles, and more. Proceeds benefit Ecumenical Community Helping and improve your English. Day and Others in Springfield. Saturday, April 7, 8 a.m.-noon in the Gymnasium of St. start times vary. Visit: Bernadette Catholic Church and School, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield. va.evanced.info/fairfaxcounty/lib/ Free admission. Email [email protected]. eventcalendar.asp

[email protected]. games and activities while parents, FRIDAY/APRIL 6 Spring Cleaning in the Parks. 9- caregivers, and older youth B-I-N-G-O. 7 p.m. at Fire Station 3, 11:30 a.m. at 10 different Fairfax participate in personal development 4081 University Drive, Fairfax. Enjoy County parks: Cub Run RECenter, training sessions and workshops. free coffee, entertaining callers, a Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Hidden Oaks Keynote address “Trauma to friendly atmosphere, $1,000 Nature Center at Roundtree Park, Resiliency: Building Stronger guaranteed jackpot, treasure chest Hidden Pond Nature Center, Huntley Families and Communities.” will be progressive raffles, and good food Meadows Park, Lake Accotink Park, presented by Dr. Elizabeth Meeker. available for purchase. All proceeds Lake Fairfax Park,Riverbend Park, To register for this event, visit go to purchasing fire and rescue Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, and Sully www.FormedFamiliesForward.org or equipment. Visit www.fairfaxvfd.com Historic Site. More than 750 volunteers call 703-539-2904. or call 703-273-3638 for more. will join the Fairfax County Park Rose Care Seminar. 10 a.m.-noon at Authority and The Nature Conservancy Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds APRIL 6-21 for annual “spring cleaning” efforts to Oak Road, Burke. Award-winning “The Front Page.” Thursday, Friday kickoff Earth Month. The volunteers Consulting Rosarian Pam Powers and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 will remove trash and debris, while shares the basics about rose p.m. at The James Lee Community also assisting scientists and selection, how to plant and grow Center, 2855 Annandale Road, Falls conservationists by recording data beautiful blooms from May to Church. Set in a Chicago press room in about what they remove. Visit November. Free. Light refreshments. COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP the 1920s, reporter Hildy Johnson www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/. Door prizes. Hosted by Arlington wants to break away from journalism Fairfax City Fishing Derby. 9:30, Rose Foundation. Call 703-371-9351 and get married. All that changes when 10:15 and 11 a.m. at Ashby Pond an escaped convict, Earl Williams, Conservation, 9817 Ashby Road, SUNDAY/APRIL 8 f breaks out of jail and suddenly falls Fairfax. Bring a fishing rod, bucket, T-TRAK Scale Model Train Show. COMMUNITY o FAITH into the reporter’s hands. Fast-paced plastic bag and ice. A limited 1-4 p.m. at the Fairfax Station TABERNACLE and filled with crisp dialog and sharp quantity of fishing rods will be on Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax humor, this classic comedy packs a site to borrow. Bait will be supplied. Station Road, Fairfax Station. The Sunday Morning wallop of nostalgic Americana. Visit $5 per participant. Pre-registration Northern Virginia NTRAK members Worship Service—10:45 a.m. www.providenceplayers.org for tickets. required at www.fairfaxva.gov/ will hold a N gauge T-TRAK model 7520 Rolling Road specialevents or in person at train show. Ages 16 and older, $4; 5- SATURDAY/APRIL 7 Sherwood Center, Green Acres 15, $2; 4 and under, free. Visit (Spring Tree Dr.) ECHO Yard Sale. 8 a.m.-noon in the Center and City Hall P&R Office. For www.fairfax-station.org, :WYPUNÄLSK=( Gymnasium of St. Bernadette more information email www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, or call (703) 455-4594 Catholic Church and School, 7600 [email protected]. 703-425-9225. [email protected] www.coft.net Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield. Spring Forward Family Fun Day in Ready to Serve: Nurses in World Join the hunt for treasures at ECHO’s Fairfax. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at War I. 2 p.m. at at the Fairfax Building Whole People for the Kingdom of God semi-annual yard sale. Toys, fashion Providence Community Center, 3001 Museum and Visiter Center, 10209 accessories, collectibles, and more. Vaden Drive, Fairfax. In this Main St., Fairfax. Learn about nurses Proceeds benefit Ecumenical celebration of families formed by from Johns Hopkins Hospital in Community Helping Others in foster care adoption, and kinship Springfield. Free admission. Email care, children will enjoy a morning of See Calendar, Page 14

Home of the $6,850 Bathroom Remodel From Now to WOW in 5 Days Guarantee Select your 10% down TWO POOR TEACHERS nothing until the job products from isis completecomplete forfor thethe Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling our Mobile past 17 years Showroom and Design Center b b Fully Insured & Class A Licensed To AdvertiseYour Community Since 1999 of Worship Free Estimates Call 703-778-9418 703-214-8384 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com

12 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com FOR YOUR TOYOTA

WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’S PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE

ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 13 Calendar

From Page 12 equipment. Visit www.fairfaxvfd.com or call 703-273-3638 for more. Baltimore. Storyteller Ellouise Schoettler “Pershing’s Own” Chamber performs three monologues based on Players. 8 p.m. in Old Town Hall, letters written by the nurses, who 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. The served in the U.S. Army in France Bonita Lestina Performance Series during World War I. Call 703-385- concludes April 13 with the U.S. 8414. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Rock Creek Trio Concert. 4-5 p.m. Chamber Players performing Through at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Darkness: Music by Victims and 6509 Sydenstricker Road, Burke. Survivors of the Holocaust. Free. Call Enjoy a violin, cello, and piano trio 703-352-ARTS. playing dramatic and colorful music by Beethoven and Ravel. Reception SATURDAY/APRIL 14 to follow. Childcare provided. Free Burke Farmers Market. Open admission. Call 703-455-2500 or visit Saturdays, through Dec. 22, 8 a.m.- www.standrews.net noon at 5671 Roberts Pkwy., Burke. Fairfax County Park Authority WEDNESDAY/APRIL 11 markets are strictly producer-only Luncheon: Springfield Christian meaning that vendors must grow or Women’s Connection. 11:30 make from scratch everything they a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Springfield Golf bring to market. Call 703-642-0128 And Country Club, 8301 Old Keene or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Mill Road, Springfield. Spring Fling parks/farmersmarkets. Fashion Show featuring styles from Art Lessons for Youth Classes. Urban Posh. Owners, Pam and Angie 9:15-10:30 a.m. at Woods Behbahani, will show selections from Community Centre, 10100 Wards their boutique located in Occoquan. Grove Circle, Burke. Drawing and Speaker Diana Grounds will be watercolor for 8 years and older. sharing with us Great Expections – Instructor Carol Zeitlin. Visit what she leaned from her children. www.czartlessons.com or call 703- $20 per person, all-inclusive. 250-6930. Reservations requested by Friday, Art Workshop for Teens/Adults. April 6 at 703-922-6438 or 10:30-12:30 p.m. at Woods [email protected]. Community Centre, 10100 Wards Stanley Kubrick Showcase. 7:30 Grove Circle, Burke. Drawing, p.m. at Angelika Film Center - watercolor, Chinese brush, portfolio Mosaic, 2911 District Ave. Fairfax. development for teens and adults. The Angelika Film Center - Mosaic Instructor Carol Zeitlin. will celebrate filmmaker Stanley www.czartlessons.com or call 703- Kubrick. Visit 250-6930. www.AngelikaFilmCenter.com. Celebrate Leonard Bernstein’s 100th Birthday. 8 p.m. at St. Mark’s THURSDAY-SUNDAY/APRIL 12-15 Church, 5800 Backlick Road, “Follow Your Heart.” At EagleBank Springfield. The Northern Virginia Arena, 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax. Chorale, celebrates Leonard Disney On Ice presents “Follow Your Bernstein’s 100th Birthday with a Heart” is an ce skating extravaganza program including the West Side featuring Disney-Pixar’s Finding Story Suite and music from Candide. Dory, Disney-Pixar’s Inside Out, The Chorale also performs Whitacre’s Disney’s Frozen and other beloved Five Hebrew Love Songs and Ralph Disney stories. Tickets start at $15. Manuel’s Alleluia. A free reception All seats are reserved, and tickets are will follow the concert. Adults, $20- available at 800-745-3000, $25; students (12-24 years), $10; www.ticketmaster.com, and the children under 12 years are free. EagleBank Arena box office. Order Tickets online at: www.northernvirginiachorale.org or FRIDAY/APRIL 13 call 703-455-1074. B-I-N-G-O. 7 p.m. at Fire Station 3, 4081 University Drive, Fairfax. Enjoy SUNDAY/APRIL 15 free coffee, entertaining callers, a Railroad Technology Exhibit. 1-4 friendly atmosphere, $1,000 p.m. at the Fairfax Station Railroad guaranteed jackpot. Good food Museum, Visit www.fairfax- available for purchase. All proceeds station.org, www.facebook.com/ go to purchasing fire and rescue FFXSRR, or call 703-425-9225. Yoga

From Page 4 and they don’t realize that rab- bits live for up to 15 years, and gas. so, they’re a life-long commit- Hurwitt added: “Rabbits are ment and these poor rabbits a lot of fun. They are great pets end up abandoned, and so if you know how to properly these wonderful people come in care for them. And if anyone is and they foster them and that interested in ever having a rab- requires money. bit for a pet, there are so many “We’re doing something that’s available for adoption from us great for the body, mind, and or the local shelters. But do spirit and good for the bunnies your research before you get a as well. So, we’re going to teach rabbit so you know what you’re some yoga and it’s going to be getting into. They’re not starter a lot of fun. In the end, we’re pets for small children but they going to help out some beauti- can be great family pets.” ful little furry souls,” she said. Yoga instructor Shannon For more information on Meraw of Fairfax added: “Basi- Friends of Rabbits, visit cally, around Easter time, a lot www.friendsofrabbits.org. of people buy rabbits for their children or for their families — Steve Hibbard

14 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin Label Me

Submit civic/community announcements at Presumptuous ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event. By KENNETH B. LOURIE I have not been collecting return-address PARENTS HELPING PARENTS labels for years. I have however, been receiv- Parent Support Partners, a service of the ing them for years. Either as thank yous for Healthy Minds Fairfax initiative, are all parents charitable contributions made or as induce- who have received training and are qualitied to offer education, support and assistance at no ments for charitable contributions yet to be cost to families or caregivers. They provide made. Regardless of the reason, I have had reliable information that families can use in an ample supply until recently. And they have decision-making and are familiar with services served me well as both a reminder of what I and resources that can help families in distress. have and have not done. And over time, they Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ have most definitely served their purpose. healthymindsfairfax or www.nami- Amazingly though, the pages of return- northernvirginia.org/parent-peer-support.html. address labels in inventory has been shrinking of late. Due to some combination of my lack KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION of charitableness as well as a reduction in the Child turning 5 years old by Sept. 30? If so, numbers of unsolicited charitable quid pro contact your child’s school to make quos (there may be a relationship there). arrangements for kindergarten enrollment. Most Let me be clear: I am under no delusion schools begin getting information together now or pressure to respond to these let- for parents of incoming kindergartners, and ters/requests for money. Just because I receive many host an orientation or open house. All them doesn’t mean I must adhere to them. kindergarten programs are full-day and located in FCPS elementary schools. Check your school’s They’re hardly a subpoena nor are they pay- webpage or contact the school directly for ment for services rendered. They are merely specific enrollment information and dates of a pre-approach-type solicitation mailed to me orientationor visit www.fcps.edu/registration/ at my home offering goods (the labels) for kindergarten-registration. services (my contribution) not yet rendered. Opening an envelope and reading its con- VOLUNTEERS WANTED tents doesn’t make me a partner in their pur- suit of my dollars. The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum needs volunteer docents on Sunday afternoons from 1- But what exactly is the protocol here? 4 p.m. Greet museum visitors and tell them Certainly I can understand keeping and/or about the exhibits, the Museum and the its using the return-address labels if I make a railroad and Civil War history. Training and contribution, but what if I don’t make a con- orientation provided. Other volunteer tribution? Do I have to throw these perfectly opportunities are gardening, publicity and good return-address labels away? Don’t some exhibit planning. The Museum is located at of these labels, by their design/content – and 11200 Fairfax Station Road in Fairfax Station. ultimately by their use by yours truly, indi- Call Michael at 703-945-7483 for more information. rectly support the original sender’s cause? Isn’t their use some kind of tacit paying-it forward-type approval/contribution on my THURSDAY/APRIL 5 part? I realize money and/or in-kind contribu- Autism 101: An Introduction to tions likely help more, but is there use by a Understanding Autism. 10-11:30 a.m. at non-contributor not abuse at all? After all, I’m Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 sort of passing the word/keeping their chain Gallows Road, Entrance 1 - Room 100, Dunn going, aren’t I? Loring. Join the Autism Society of Northern Virginia to learn accurate, important, basic If all is fair in love and war, certainly information at this workshop highlighting there’s a little wiggle room in the world of Autism Acceptance Month. Open to all who mailing unsolicited inducements to unsus- want to learn more about autism. Visit pecting recipients? I mean, I’m not asking for www.fcps.edu/node/28279. trouble here, am I? I’m merely asking for Public Meeting: Painting and Restriping. 7 some understanding and clarification. If what p.m. in the Springfield Governmental Center, was sent to me – not at my request and not 6140 Rolling Road, West Springfield. The as part of a phone conversation securing a Virginia Department of Transportation and the Fairfax County Department of Transportation commitment, was not my doing, then why will hold a public meeting on 2018 paving and am I responsible for it being done? restriping efforts in the Springfield District. Obviously the labels are a convenience for Information will be on display in an open house me, and that is worth some amount of money format, with a presentation at 7:15 p.m. Visit and time that now I’m not having to spend. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/2018- Still, it feels like an intrusion of sorts, a paving-and-restriping. method to their madness – presumably, but to me a presumption, nevertheless. And APRIL 5-MAY 24 that’s just a few letters away from an assump- Neighborhood College Returns. The eight- tion, and you all know what is said about week course teaches how the county works and assuming? how you can make it work for your community. I suppose if you cast a wide enough net Course sessions include “Code Compliance and you’re going to catch a few contributors who Zoning,” “Family Services and Mental Health,” don’t find anything fishy about this direct mail “Police and Emergency Management,” “Storm process and who feel compelled to respond Water Management and Solid Waste Management.” Opportunity to ask County staff favorably – so to speak, because a good deed questions and hear how they make our county has been for them. And if a good deed (or a run. Classes will be held Thursday evenings at a “solid,” to quote Detective Andy location to be determined. Contact Ann Sharp at Sipowitz/Dennis Franz from NYPD Blue) 703-425-9300 or [email protected] deserves another then contributions will be to register. made and address labels will be affixed. But after years of receiving these return- FRIDAY/APRIL 6 address-labels-masquerading-as-solicitations- Strategies to Support Elementary School for-contributions – to a variety of charities, Students. 10 a.m.-noon at Dunn Loring Center some more well known than others, I don’t for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows Road, feel the least bit stuck in my decision to use Entrance 1 - Room 100, Dunn Loring. A Closer these return address labels as I see fit. In a Look at Stress and Anxiety: Strategies to way, I am the beneficiary of their largess and Support Elementary School Students will in turn, they are the beneficiary of my non- explore strategies and resources to support cash contribution. It’s sort of a win-win. But I children experiencing stress and anxiety in don’t suppose that was their intention. I sup- elementary school. Highlights will include recognizing and validating a child’s worry, pose they wanted more, not less. managing anxiety in the school setting, helping a child remain calm, and using stress reduction Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for tools. Visit www.fcps.edu/node/28279. The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 15 16 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com