GreatGreat FallsFalls

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Sports, Page 12 ❖ LangleyLangley PrincipalPrincipal LeavesLeaves forfor

Classifieds, Page 14 Classifieds, ❖ SouthSouth CountyCounty News, Page 3

Entertainment, Page 10

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Get to Know Opinion, Page 6 Craig Parisot News, Page 4 Clemyjontri Park Celebrates Renewal News, Page 8

Langley High School Principal Matt Ragone in front of the trophy case. After more than six years as Langley principal,

Photo by Reena Singh/The Connection he became the principal of South County High School. www.ConnectionNewspapers.comDecember 17-23, 2014 onlineGreat at Fallswww.connectionnewspapers.com Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected] Langley Principal Leaves for South County Matthew Ragone created “Saxon Country,” says school family network committee co-chair.

By Reena Singh “Students can’t sacrifice current happiness The Connection for future happiness.” “He was also a rock to the community or six years, he was the glue that during some dark times last year,” she said. brought Langley High School Last winter, two Langley students killed F(LHS) together. themselves during the same week - one on LHS Principal Matthew Ragone Monday and the other Tuesday - shaking has left the school to boost South County the school system to the core and prompt- High School’s academics as its new princi- ing changes like the addition of Crisis Text pal. and later high school start times. “South County has spent a long time look- “He really binded the community to- ing for a qualified principal,” said Ragone. gether,” said Langley senior and FCPS “I think I have the right fit to help a school School Board student representative Har- like South County with qualities that have ris LaTeef. been dormant at Langley.” LaTeef said he was sad when he found Ragone has spent his entire 22 year edu- out that Ragone - who he called a role cation career at Fairfax County Schools. model - was leaving in the middle of the Even further back, he graduated high school Photo by Reena Singh/The Connection year. from South Lakes High School in Reston. Langley High School Principal Matt Ragone in front of the trophy case. “I was looking forward to crossing the “I always loved history,” he said. “I re- stage at graduation and shaking his hand,” member going to Monticello and downtown “Also, there were things you complain Ragone decided to change the day to Unity he said. D.C., and I would finish our tour guide’s about as a teacher, and I didn’t want to com- Day, instead, asking students to all wear Ragone’s first day at South County High sentences and it would tick everyone off.” plain anymore,” he said. school colors and stand together. School was on the Dec. 15. Former South While studying at the University of Mary “He created the school idea of Saxon Lakes principal Bruce Butler will replace Washington, he taught swimming over the AFTER BEING AT FOUR OTHER Country,” said Shomaker. “No matter who him as LHS’s interim principal. summers while on break. He said he was SCHOOLS, he landed at Langley High. you are, we are one.” amazed that instructions could lead to ac- Former Parent Teacher Association Presi- Ragone said he was especially proud to RAGONE is excited for the fresh start and tion. He knew then that he wanted to be- dent and current Family Network Commit- have reached out to the students he called feels he is leaving Langley a better place come a teacher. tee co-Chair Betsy Shomaker worked closely the “middle kids,” the students who were than how he found it. He knows that he After years of being a social studies with him for many years, saying he created neither the disadvantaged nor overachiev- will face different challenges like lower test teacher, however, he realized he wanted unity where there was little before. ers. scores, a more diverse population and a more. “I think Matt’s legacy will be his work and Although student mental health is widely greater percentage of students who are “I always thought I was going to be a effort to change and improve school spirit discussed topic within Fairfax County Pub- qualified for free or reduced lunch. teacher my entire life,” he said. “I always and school culture,” she said. lic Schools and around the nation, “South County is one of those really great found it rewarding.” Previous to his principalship there, the Shomaker said he may have been one of places to be,” he said. “You walk in and see However, he wanted to reach more than school celebrated Color Day where differ- the first people who talked about it five that people have so much school spirit. I the 150 students who would come through ent school teams would wear different col- years ago. think that their academics could match their his classroom every week. ors - a practice of rivalry within the school. She remembered a speech where he said, spirit and enthusiasm at the school.” Volunteer Opportunities

Fairfax County is offering a free Telephone Sup- fied Arthritis Exercise, Ballroom Dance, Square port Group for Family Caregivers of Older Adults. Join Dance,Knitting/Crocheting, Bridge and American us for this open discussion. This telephone support Mah Jongg. For these and other volunteer oppor- group may be just what you need! Share your experi- tunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visit ences, gain support and get important information www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click on without having to travel. The one-hour free sessions Volunteer Solutions. are scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month beginning at7 p.m. Find out more and register at The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/ and Ombudsman Program needs volunteer advo- click on Caregiver Telephone Support Group. cates for residents in assisted living and nursing facilities. Training is provided in March. Call 703- Fairfax County needs volunteers to drive older 324-5861, TTY 711 or email adults to medical appointments and wellness pro- [email protected]. Find more infor- grams Reston area. For these and other volunteer mation on the program at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visit ltc . www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click on Volunteer Solutions. The Annandale Adult Day Health Care Center in Annandale needs alicensed hair stylist Volunteers, fluent in American Sign Lan- to wash, cut and style hair for participants once or guage, are needed in Reston, Herndon and twice a month and Spanish-speaking social com- White House Ornaments Available in Great Falls Vienna. For these and other volunteer opportuni- panions Monday-Friday. For these and other ties, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visit volunteer opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY This year’s White House Ornament represents a set of trains in www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click on 711 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults honor of President Warren Harding who was very fond of trains. Volunteer Solutions. and click on Volunteer Solutions. The ornaments can be purchased at Great Dogs, and The Studio, both retailers located in Great Falls. The cost per ornament is $25, Meals on Wheels needs drivers in Chantilly, The Wakefield Senior Center in Annandale McLean, Mt. Vernon, and Clifton on Monday, needs a Chair Exercise Instructor and Bilingual all proceeds benefiting Artemis House, a local Fairfax County shel- Wednesday and Friday. For these and other volun- English/Spanish Activity Leaders. They also need ter providing emergency assistance for women and children fleeing teer opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or certified instructors for classes in Ballroom Dance domestic violence. Store locations: Great Dogs: 9859 Georgetown visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and click and Pilates. Volunteer instructor positions could Pike, Great Falls, 703-759-3601; The Studio: 10123 Colvin Run Road, on Volunteer Solutions. lead to part-time employment. For these and other volunteer opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY Great Falls, 703-757-2330. The Lewinsville Senior Center in McLean 711 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults needs instructors for the following classes: Certi- and click on Volunteer Solutions. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 3 News

Bio: Current Position: CEO of Aperio International Running with Purpose Residence: McLean Spouse: Kristen Children: Jackson, 12 weeks old Education: University of South Carolina BA Colleagues say delegate English, California State Polytechnic University Pomona MBA Current and previous organizations: candidate Craig Parisot’s President of Volunteer Fairfax, Board of World Police and Fire Games, Northern Virginia Technology Council, McLean Citizens ‘got his priorities straight.’ Association, Great Falls Citizens Association.

By Reena Singh says his opponents misread about his inten- The Connection tions. “I knew I wasn’t going to win,” he said. raig Parisot can juggle. “But I learned a lot of things. It really helped Whether that means candy me to learn about my communities very Ccanes or work-life balance, he quickly.” catches everything that comes What he is learning from local communi- his way. ties this time around are the issues he plans With a growing new family, a growing list to take to office if he wins: boosting the of leadership roles in the community and state’s economy, promoting education and an active campaign as the Republican can- improving transportation. He believes that didate for delegate for the 34th District, this all three of those requests are connected. is a job that requires both hands. “Listen, listen, listen,” said Parisot. “You “If there is one thing I want people to will learn so much, and your actions will know about me, it’s that I’m not looking for be so much better by listening.” purpose by running,” he said, sitting in the Fran Fisher, of Vienna, met Parisot when tight quarters of his McLean “Parisot for they were campaigning over the summer Delegate” office. “I’m running with pur- Photos contributed by Sean McCort for Barbara Comstock’s run for U.S. Con- pose.” Kristen Parisot, Don Landefeld - Godfather - and Jill - Godmother - look gress. Fisher said she briefly contemplated Although his son Jackson is only 12 weeks towards the priest as Craig Parisot holds his son, Jackson, during his running for her open delegate seat, but is old, Parisot has just weeks to knock on doors christening. excited that Parisot decided to. and pound pavement to win voters over. He “He’s got his priorities straight,” she said. loves having the opportunity, however, to They finally bought a house in McLean that Mr. Parisot will take his pro-business “He’s level-headed. He’s got a good grasp talk to the diverse group of locals that make two years ago. They also have a family farm and pro-jobs policy positions to Richmond of the issues of the district.” up McLean, Great Falls and parts of in Great Falls where Kristen can ride horses. to ensure Virginia remains a top state for She also noted that his business back- Loudoun County, an opportunity he said he Two years ago, he also sold his company business.” ground gives him an edge. would almost never have without running Aperio International, that once had nearly Serving in the military gave him drive to “As a business person, he understands a for office. 300 employees. He said the benefits and fair serve in other ways once he retired. He has budget and how to live within a budget,” “It inspires me to do right by all people,” wages the company provided made them taken leadership roles in local nonprofit she said. he said. competitive in the field. boards and goes to McLean Citizen Asso- He said his parents divorced when he was “NOVABizPAC, the Fairfax County Cham- ciation and Great Falls Citizen Association THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE he is facing a young boy in South Carolina. His mother ber of Commerce’s political action commit- meetings to listen to the issues that impact is just letting voters know there is an elec- raised him, and at one point, the family had tee, is pleased to endorse and support Craig the area the most. tion in January even though there was just to go on food assistance while she put her- Parisot for Delegate,” said NOVABizPAC In pursuit of a way to serve during the an election in November. Between those two self through school to become a nurse. Chair Scott McGeary in a press release an- short time he lived in Chevy Chase, Md., he elections are some of the biggest holidays “I always paid attention,” he said. “I asked nouncing their endorsement. “It is our hope decided to run for mayor - something he to nearly every denomination - but he does why my mom was a Republican - what does not want to compete with them. Rather, he it mean to be a Republican?” is collecting canned goods while on the cam- Working in the House of Representatives, Q&A: Get to Know Craig Parisot paign trail to donate to a food pantry. his eyes were opened to how the legislative Ryan Rauner, who met Parisot through the What are your top three accomplish- Virginia to out of town friends? process worked. His interest in politics ments? Parisot: First of all, we’d have to use a Finance Committee on the Fairfax County found its spark. Craig Parisot: The number one is I am so car, so hopefully the roads are clear and we Republican Committee, said Parisot’s suc- “It’s about being conservative,” he said fortunate to have a magnificent wife and don’t come across much congestion. I would cess in business will make him a successful about what it means to be Republican. “The things just keep getting better every day. I start by taking them out to our farm in Great delegate. He described his colleague as pas- have such an adorable, healthy child. Falls, just to show them the raw beauty. I’d Republican Party I know and love welcomes My second is my service as an officer in the then show them all my favorite spots here in sionate, dedicated and business-minded - a everybody.” United States Air Force. McLean.If we get a little more daylight, we smart person who understands the issues. The third is really growing and operating a might go out to Great Falls National Park, “He doesn’t need to become delegate,” he HE MOVED to the area 13 years ago after successful business where we had nearly 300 take a little hike, because it’s just so gor- said. “I know he’s doing it because public employees at one point. And we never missed geous. serving as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. a payroll. That was really special. service is a service. It’s not a career for him, Sang Yi, a Navy reserve officer who met What would people find surprising it’s a passion. Parisot through community activities, says What would be your top three priori- about you? Jim Tragakis serves on the Volunteer that service in the military gives him an edge ties as delegate? Parisot: I can juggle - apparently not odd Fairfax board that Parisot leads. He said he Parisot: Growing and diversifying the sized objects - but cylindrical objects that in to run for office. Commonwealth’s economy. Transportation. particular. I think the other thing is that my was excited when he found out Parisot was “I think when people serve in the mili- Education. They all go hand in hand. They’re entrepreneurial roots run really deep. I was running for delegate. tary, they learn leadership skills that are not all key investments. that typical kid that had the lemonade stand “He’s very strategic in his thinking and on the side of the road on a hot sunny day to readily available at other jobs,” he said. Why should our readers vote for you? make a little bit of money, because I do come focuses on getting things done,” said Also, with a child under 3 months, Yi is Parisot: I’m very deliberate about the from a single family home. Tragakis. “I can see him working his way impressed that Parisot decided to run in a decisions that I make. I’m deeply committed into leadership positions like committee drastically shortened race. to this community, deeply committed to being How do you relax off the campaign chairman and other positions like that.” the best delegate that I could possibly be. I’ve trail? “He’s probably not getting a lot of sleep absolutely got the best background for this. I Parisot: Well, when you do get time, it’s Parisot continues to knock on doors and right now,” he said. “He’s a remarkable guy.” think it translates for the needs and priorities really about spending time with my family, go to community meetings where he can His wife, Kristen, and he lived in Wash- for the 34th district, and I am not a career making every opportunity to spend those listen in and hopefully take those concerns ington, D.C. while they worked for many politician. moments with my wife and my son. Espe- to the General Assembly one day. cially now, I’m watching him grow up and years, then moved to McLean three years How would you show off Northern discover life. “When people talk to me, they know what ago. they’re getting,” Parisot said.

4 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Faith Notes

Faith Notes are for announce- ments and events in the faith Herrick Named community. Send to north@ connectionnewspapers.com. Dead- Chairman of line is Friday. “Once Upon A Holy Night” History Commission on Dec. 21 at 10:45 a.m. at Char- ity Baptist Church 1328 Spring Carole Herrick was recently selected to Hill Road McLean. Join in for the serve as chairman of the Fairfax County annual Christmas concert. It will History Commission. The commission helps be a morning filled with joyous to identify, document, record and preserve celebration, music, and worship. This year the choir performs an the county’s historic past. It also sponsors inspiring musical story of God’s events about local history. The commission promise fulfilled. The program meets at 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of features Classical Christmas fa- vorites as well as blues and jazz each month in the Conference Room at the arrangements that beautifully tell City of Fairfax Regional Library. The public Photo contributed the story of Christ’s birth. A per- is always welcome. Carole Herrick formance that is sure to ignite and kindle your Christmas spirit. Admissions is free. No tickets re- quired.

McLean Community Foundation “Blue Christmas” Wor- ship Service for those REAL ESTATE SCHOOL Announces Grants Recipients, struggling with loss or sadness this holiday season. 6 p.m. Sun- FOR $99 New Grants Cycle day, Dec. 21. Emmanuel The McLean Community Founda- ceive funds to replace out-of-date Lutheran Church 2589 Chain tion (MCF) has announced the computer equipment. Bridge Road, Vienna. Everyone Get Enrolled For Real Estate Classes following grants recently awarded to ❖ Longfellow PTA received a welcome. 703-938-2119 or organizations benefiting the citizens grant to support Longfellow’s partici- www.elcvienna.org. of McLean: pation in the National Wildlife Starting January 5th, 2015 ❖ Share of McLean received a Federation’s Green Flag Award pro- A Festival of Lessons and donation that will help fund the pur- gram promoting the cultivation of Carols. 9 and 11:15 a.m. on In The Weichert, Great Falls Office. chase of a new truck to support sustainable school grounds, the re- Sunday, Dec. 21 at St. John’s Share’s services for families in need. duction of waste and promotes Episcopal Church, 6715 ❖ A grant to SPARC will fund the energy savings. Georgetown Pike, McLean. For more details call purchase of specially-adapted pho- ❖ Redeemer Renaissance Af- tography equipment and art supplies ter-School Program was awarded Once Upon a Holy Night, for its programs benefiting adults a challenge grant toward the pur- 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 703.759.6300 ext 176 with disabilities. chase of a bus to transport students See Faith, Page 7 ❖ McLean Orchestra will re- from area elementary schools. 731-A Walker Road • Great Falls • Virginia • 22066

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 5 Opinion Great Falls

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

An independent, locally owned weekly Holidays Are for Giving newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Published by poor enough to receive free or subsidized Local Media Connection LLC In the scramble to finish Christmas shopping, meals. That’s 60 percent of the 14,222 students 1606 King Street enrolled. Alexandria, Virginia 22314 remember tens of thousands of local children are These are children who may not be sure that Free digital edition delivered to they will have a meal between the meals they your email box. Go to short of food as well as presents. get in school. School holidays can bring un- connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe certainty and hunger, a far cry from the cel- he holidays are for giving. To be clear, the poverty line is $19,780 for a ebrations, gifts and plenty that we associate NEWS DEPARTMENT: Christmas and Hanukkah are family of three; it’s $11,670 for a single per- with Christmas, Hanukkah and winter holiday [email protected] about children and family, about son household. Imagine for a minute how far vacations. Kemal Kurspahic T ❖ sharing, about joy, about being $20,000 a year would go in your family. To Many of these are children are living in fami- Editor 703-778-9414 thankful and about faith and appreciation. live in Northern Virginia, a family needs to earn lies who must choose between medical bills, [email protected] Here in Northern Virginia, many of us see about twice the rate of poverty to get by. The car repair, heat and food. Almost all are fami- Amna Rehmatulla few signs of families in need as we go median household income in Fairfax lies where at least one adult is employed full Editorial Assistant 703-778-9410 ext.427 about our daily lives and holiday shop- County and Arlington is well over time, but still many are one unexpected ex- [email protected] ping. Our neighborhoods are largely Editorial $100,000. pense away from disaster. Many of these fami- Reena Singh segregated economically; we mostly In Fairfax County Public Schools, lies live on the brink of homelessness. Community Reporter see the people who are most like our- more than 52,000 students, or more There are literally hundreds, probably thou- 757-619-7584 selves economically. than 28 percent, are poor enough to receive sands, of ways to give locally this season. Also [email protected] But in Fairfax County, about 65,000 people free or subsidized meals, a significant measure mark your calendar to help again in a month Jon Roetman live below the poverty line, about 6 percent. of poverty. or two. The needs don’t go away after the holi- Sports Editor ❖ 703-752-4013 [email protected] In Arlington and Alexandria, more than 8 per- In Arlington more than 32 percent of the stu- days. Here are a few ideas. @jonroetman cent of the population lives in poverty, about dents are poor enough to receive free or subsi- 18,000 people in Arlington and more than dized meals; that’s 7,452 students at last count. — Mary Kimm ADVERTISING: 12,000 people in Alexandria. In Alexandria, more than 8,500 students are [email protected] For advertising information [email protected] 703-778-9431

Where to Give Locally Salome Howard-Gaibler In no particular order: nonprofits, faith communities and businesses. http:/ Display Advertising ❖ Our Daily Bread’s Holiday Program helps ❖ SHARE of McLean seeks donations of grocery gift /www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/ 703-778-9421 those in need with food for the holidays and gifts cards and more. Checks and gift cards can be sent ❖ 12 Ways of Giving: Fairfax County Office of [email protected] for their children. Donations are still needed, go to to: Holiday Celebration, Share, Inc. PO Box 210, Public Private Partnerships’ “12 Ways of Giving” www.odbfairfax.com/holiday McLean, VA 22101. 703-284- campaign is an annual event that showcases many Andrea Smith Classified Advertising ❖ Cornerstones, 11150 Sunset Hills Road, Suite 210, 2179.www.SHAREofMcLean.org ways for meaningful, local giving during the holiday ❖ 703-778-9411 Reston, serving Reston and Herndon. 571-323-9555, Committee for Helping Others (CHO), Vienna, season, highlighting nonprofits in Fairfax County. [email protected] www.cornerstonesva.org. Programs and services organized in 1969 by a group of concerned churches www.fairfaxcountypartnerships.org ❖ include the Embry Rucker Community Shelter, and individuals in the Dunn Loring, Merrifield, Assistance League of Northern Virginia is an Debbie Funk Emergency Food Pantry, Hypothermia Prevention Oakton, Vienna community to provide simple, all-volunteer organization that clothes, feeds, National Sales Program and the Thanksgiving Food Drive. loving charity to those in need. 703-281-7614 http:/ educates and nurtures those in need focusing five of 703-778-9444 ❖ FACETS helps parents, their children and /www.cho-va.com the neediest elementary schools. Volunteers and [email protected] individuals who suffer the effects of poverty in the ❖ Herndon-Reston FISH (For Immediate donors are always needed. Contact Fairfax area. FACETS is always in need of Sympathetic Help), 336 Victory Drive, Herndon, [email protected] or see David Griffin volunteers, and offers a variety of one-time and 703-391-0105 Also operates thrift store, The www.northernvirginia.assistanceleague.org Marketing Assistant ongoing opportunities. 703-865-4251 or Bargain Loft, 336 Victory Drive, Herndon, 20170, ❖ Western Fairfax Christian Ministries — food 703-778-9431 [email protected]. www.facetscares.org. 703-437-0600 http://herndonrestonfish.org pantry at 13981 Metrotech Drive in Chantilly (near [email protected] 10640 Page Avenue, Suite 300, Fairfax VA 22030 ❖ Northern Virginia Family Service, providing Backyard Grill and Bar). For more information or to ❖ HealthWorks for Northern Virginia, formerly gift cards and toys for 1,700 of Northern Virginia’s sponsor a family, call 703-988-9656, ext. 105. To the Jeanie Schmidt Free Clinic, provides medical, neediest families this season. 10455 White Granite mail gift cards or send donations by check, add a Editor & Publisher dental and behavioral health care to anyone in Drive Suite 100, Oakton, VA 22124 703-385-3267 note saying “food basket program” and send them Mary Kimm need, regardless of age or ability to pay. Herndon http://www.nvfs.org/ to: WFCM, P.O. Box 220802, Chantilly, VA 20153. [email protected] @MaryKimm location, 1141 Elden St. Third Floor, Herndon, VA ❖ Office to End and Prevent Homelessness has 703-988-9656. http://www.wfcmva.org/ 20170, 703-481-8160 http://hwnova.org/ a strategic road map to prevent and end ❖ Touching Heart in Herndon is a nonprofit ❖ Executive Vice President Alternative House — Abused and Homeless homelessness, created by the Planning Committee to organization whose mission is to educate children to Jerry Vernon Children’s Refuge, 2100 Gallows Road, Vienna, VA End Homelessness, in partnership with the cities of have giving hearts. http://www.touchingheart.com, [email protected] 22182, 703-506-9191. www.thealternativehouse.org Fairfax and Falls Church, government agencies, 703-901-7355 Editor in Chief Steven Mauren Managing Editor have in common is not having a grams, are truly grateful for your Kemal Kurspahic Helping People without Homes permanent address. support in filling a holiday wish Photography: By Pamela L. Michell heartwarming, because you are At New Hope Housing, we don’t list, providing a meal, volunteer- Deb Cobb, Craig Sterbutzel Art/Design: Executive Director thinking about the persons in our help the Homeless, we don’t house ing at one of the many hypother- Laurence Foong, John Heinly New Hope Housing program as individuals; as people the Homeless, we don’t serve the mia sites, or donating money to Production Manager: with their own holiday dreams. Homeless, we don’t work for the help our agencies end the Geovani Flores The weather has turned colder In my 30-plus years in homeless Homeless, because here, we don’t homelessness of each person who Special Assistant to the Publisher and the holidays are in full swing, services, one of my pet peeves is believe the Homeless exist. We walks through our doors. We will Jeanne Theismann [email protected] which means it’s the time of year the phrase “the homeless.” When serve people. And sometimes still need you on Dec. 26 and Feb. @TheismannMedia when people ask “what can we do we use that phrase we unknow- people experience homelessness. 5 and during the summer. Until for the homeless now that it’s so ingly dehumanize the people we We believe homelessness is some- each person is home, we’ve all got CIRCULATION: 703-778-9426 cold?” Or “how can we help the describe. We are also inaccurately thing that happens to you. Our job work to do. [email protected] homeless have a good Christmas?” lumping together a diverse group at New Hope Housing — and the Thank you for making this per- For those of us working with men, of people under one label as job of our nonprofit partners — is son-to-person connection this holi- women, and children who are ex- though they are all the same with to prevent that experience from day season. Thank you for seeing periencing homelessness, the great the same needs. Nothing could be happening, or if it does happen, that those who seek our assistance community interest in December further from the truth. They are making it as short as possible by are not “the homeless,” but men, in those we serve can be heart- individuals, each with a unique helping get people back into ap- women, and children with hopes warming — and overwhelming. story. They are children. They are propriate permanent housing. and dreams, just like each of us Overwhelming because we are in- mothers and fathers. They are vet- We at New Hope Housing, and who are blessed with a place to call undated by your extraordinary erans. They are people from all our partners, as well as the fami- home. Because there is no place generosity during this time. But walks of life. The one thing they lies and single adults in our pro- like home — anytime of the year.

6 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Faith Shop Great Falls

From Page 5 pray with you or for you. Antioch Christian Church is located at 1860 Beulah Road in Vienna. Great Falls Village Centre Charity Baptist Church, 1328 Spring Hill Road, www.antiochdoc.org McLean. Celebrating music and drama. The Jewish Social Services Agency (JSSA) www.gfvcca.com Great Falls United Methodist Church, offers a wide variety of support groups for those Adeler Jewelers ...... 703-759-4076 10100 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, will host a with emotional, social, and physical challenges. Live Nativity on Sunday, Dec. 21. There will be www.jssa.org/growth-learning. AdGen Telecom...... 703-757-6757 three showings: 5, 5:20 and 5:40 p.m. Live ani- Allstate Insurance/Doug White...... 703-759-7700 mals, refreshments and singing! HAVEN of Northern Virginia offers a vari- 703-759-3705. ety of free bereavement support groups, meeting Aquarian LLC...... 703-438-8838 on a weekly basis. 703-941-7000 or Christmas Eve Service. 4, 7 and 10 p.m. on www.havenofnova.org. Artists on the Green...... 703-609-3092 Dec. 24 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 6715 Capitol Realty Services...... 703-759-4900 Georgetown Pike, McLean. McLean Bible Church Fitness Class at Body & Soul Fitness. Gain balance, energy and strength at Dent Asset Management...... 703-286-7555 Oakton Church of the Brethren welcomes 9:45 a.m. Mondays and Fridays. Free childcare for Dr. C. Ayers...... 703-757-6445 the community to a Christmas Eve service with registered students. [email protected]. lighting of candles and Holy Communion on Executive Suites at Great Falls...... 703-865-2500 Wednesday, Dec. 24 at 7 p.m. The theme of the St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, 1830 Falls Salon, The ...... 703-759-4758 message will be “The Response to the Knock” and Kirby Road in McLean, holds a third Sunday ser- there will be congregational singing, soloists and vice every month at 10:15 a.m. which allows First Line Financial, Inc...... 703-757-7393 instrumentalists. The church is located at 10025 children to play active roles in the music and as Georgetown Learning Centers...... 703-759-3624 Courthouse Rd. in Vienna, Va., at the intersection greeters and ushers. Traditional services are every of Route 123 and Courthouse Rd. near Oakton. For Sunday at 8:15 and 10:15 a.m. Great Falls Creamery...... 703-272-7609 more information, call 703 281-4411 or go Great Falls Family & Cosmetic Dentistry..703-759-4707 towww.oaktonbrethren.org. Vienna Christian Healing Rooms are open, every Saturday, 1-5 p.m., at 8200 Bell Lane. A team H2O Pools...... 703-250-5585 Christmas Day Service. 10 a.m. on Dec. 25 of Christians is available to anyone requesting Jinny Beyer Studio...... 703-759-0250 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 6715 Georgetown prayer. Free and open to the public. 703-698-9779 Pike, McLean. or www.viennachristianhealingrooms.com. Katie’s Coffee House...... 703-759-2759 Knowlera Media...... 703-757-5444 St. Francis Episcopal Church, 9220 Chesterbrook United Methodist Church is Georgetown Pike in Great Falls, offers musical, at 1711 Kirby Road, McLean. Worship service is at Lauren Liess Interiors ...... 571-926-7825 educational, outreach and fellowship ministries in 11 a.m. Sunday school is at 9:30 a.m. for adults Loebig Chiropractic...... 703-757-5817 addition to worship services, including a 7:45 a.m. and children. 703-356-7100 or worship service without music; 9 a.m. worship ser- www.ChesterbrookUMC.org. New Paradigm Capital Mgmt...... 703-757-4802 vice, children’s chapel and children’s choirs; 10 Old Brogue Irish Pub...... 703-759-3309 a.m. Sunday school and adult forum; and 11 a.m. Centering Prayer Group meets Fridays, 9:30 worship service with adult choir. 703-759-2082. a.m. at Andrew Chapel United Methodist Church, Peking Delight Chinese Restaurant...... 703-759-5040 1301 Trap Road, Vienna. The hour includes a brief Pilates Place, LLC...... 703-405-3371 The Antioch Christian Church offers a time reading related to Centering Prayer, followed by a of Prayer and Healing on Wednesday evenings at 20-minute prayer period. E-mail Martha Thomas at Pio Pio Restaurant...... 703-865-7700 6:30 p.m. for anyone wanting encouragement and [email protected] or call the church at Robert Mobley, AIA Architect...... 703-759-1927 healing through prayers. People are available to 703-759-3509. School of Theatrical Dance...... 703-759-5652 Spectrum Property Management...... 703-307-2965 Teel Construction...... 703-759-4754 For a free digi- Village Centre Mgmt Office...... 703-759-2485 tal subscription Village Retreat/Massage Therapy...... 703-638-4852 to one or all Wells Fargo Bank...... 703-757-1040 of the 15 Connection ~ At The Great Falls Village Centre ~ Newspapers, go to The Great Falls Village Centre would like to welcome www.connect ionnewspapers. com/subscribe Be the first to know – get your paper before it hits the press. Thanks to all who participated in “Celebration of Lights” Complete digital replica of the Proud Location of the Following Events: print edition, “Egg Hunt” “4th of July Parade” “Concerts including photos on the Green” “Halloween Spooktacular” and ads, deliv- ered weekly “Celebration of Lights” to your e-mail “Cars and Coffee” box. “Farmers Market” Questions? E-mail: goinggreen@ connection newspapers.com

The Great Falls Village Centre 776 Walker Road • Great Falls, VA 703-759-2485 • [email protected]

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 7 News FreeFree Patios,Patios, Walkways,Walkways, RetainingRetaining Walls,Walls, EstimatesEstimates SON Now’sNow’s AA GreatGreat TimeTime forfor LandscapingLandscaping && soso muchmuch more!more! PRICING President of the Friends Students in the McLean YourYour LandscapeLandscape Project!Project! muchmuch more!more! OFF-SEA of Clemyjontri Park High School Armonia Kathleen Helein joins the Choir perform classic Tree Clearance Sale audience in applauding Christmas carols during Rare, Hardy Bonsai Grace Wolf after the the ceremony. (From announcement that she left) Kun Xing, Margaret 30% OFF Kingsville Boxwood will be taking over for Orrell, Alanna Milstein, All Trees 2013 & Prior 25% OFF Rip Sullivan as the new Kendall Cobington, Dranesville District Rachel Weatherby and Representative on the Gigi Iyob. Fairfax County Park Christmas Trees, Greens Authority Board. Photos by Nikki Cheshire/ and Poinsettias The Connection The Toys for Tots program joined the ceremony, collecting gifts for children in need. (From left) 6060 Fragrant, David Bowden, Director of the Planning and Devel- opment Division for the Fairfax County Park Au- 50-75%50-75% OffOff blooming Citrus thority; Harry Glasgow, Member of the Board of PotteryPottery Clemyjontri Park Celebrates Renewal Directors for the Fairfax County Park Foundation; PotteryPottery Lowest Prices Plants 10% Off Since 2008! Kathleen Helein, President of Friends of Clemyjontri Park; Rip Sullivan, Dranesville District Playground Chips Bagged, Bulk Community honors Adele Lebowitz who died earlier this month. Lebowitz, who passed away quietly ear- Kathleen Helein, the president of the Representative; Clemyjontri Park employee Bob & Organic Compost Shredded FREE Fill Mulch lier this month at the age of 98, was hon- Friends of Clemyjontri, says the park “re- Lynch as Santa Claus; Grace Wolf, newly appointed 99 Hardwood By Nikki Cheshire pictures with Santa, a craft table for mak- 200,000 unique visitors to the park every ored at the renewal ceremony for the joy ally is a much loved and magical place.” Dranesville District Representative; Bobbi $29. cu. yd. Mulch $3.49 $24.99 cu. yd. The Connection ing ornaments, collections for the Toys for year since opening in 2006, Clemyjontri was her vision and generosity continues to bring Helein also mentioned that the Concert in Longworth, Executive Director of the Fairfax Tots program, and a visit by several farm due for a renovation. to the community. the Park, a black tie fundraiser for County Park Foundation; and Rachel Georgelas, 9023 Arlington Blvd., fter spending nearly $1 million on animals from Frying Pan Farm Park. “Clemy is a very special place,” said Rip “Clemy is more than just a playground, Clemyjontri, will be taking place this spring Board Member of the Friends of Clemyjontri, all Fairfax, Virginia renovations to repair Clemyjontri Clemyjontri Park was built when McLean Sullivan, Dranesville District Representative it’s really a community treasure,” said on April 25. hold up gifts donated to the Toys for Tots program 2 miles west of I-495 on Rt. 50. 1 mile from I-66 (Vienna Metro) Park’s worn-out surfacing, the resident Adele Lebowitz donated her land of the Fairfax County Park Authority Board. Sullivan. “And it has always taken the sup- Also at the ceremony, Sullivan announced during the ceremony. A 703-573-5025 park is ready to fully reopen. The to the county, with the vision that it would “With all due respects to the many and nu- port of the community to make this such a that due to his commitment as an elected Follow Fairfax County Park Authority celebrated the become a fully accessible playground where merous wonderful parks in the Fairfax very special place.” Sullivan praised the member of the Virginia General Assembly, us: Open 7 days a week Visit our new Web site: renewal this past weekend at the park, host- every child, regardless of ability, could play County Park System, I have long referred to Friends of Clemyjontri group, who work to he will be stepping down from the Park Au- www.cravensnursery.com ing a holiday-themed event that included with one another. With an estimated Clemy as the crown jewel.” “maintain, expand, and protect” the park. thority Board and be replaced by Grace Wolf. ➠ Freeze Time And Reverse The Aging Process Gift Certificate Cards Available!

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8 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 9 Calendar Send announcements to [email protected]. Deadline is Friday for the following week’s paper. Photos/artwork encouraged.

THROUGH SUNDAY/DEC. 28 Holiday Model Train Display. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Colvin Run Mill, 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Every Saturday and Sunday. Fun for all ages. Watch G-gauge trains wend their way through a miniature western town in the Colvin Run Barn. Free.

THROUGH WEDNESDAY/DEC. 24 Santa HQ at Tysons Corner Center, 1961 Chain Bridge Road, Tysons Corner. Visit Santa’s Magical Workshop & Observatory, presented by HGTV - for photos and family activities, located in Fashion Court on level one between Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s - beginning November 14th. Reserve your space online to see Santa. Ongoing event.

St. John’s Episcopal Church THROUGH SUNDAY/JAN. 4, 2015 Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Christmas Services and Special Events Lights. 5:30 p.m. Meadowlark Botanical Garden, 9750 Meadowlark Sunday, December 21 Christmas Organ Voluntaries Gardens Court, Vienna. A winter • 9:30 AM – A service of Advent Lessons • 9:30 PM – Christmas Carols wonderland, including a flowing and Carols, with Holy Eucharist by the St. John’s Choir stream of softly glowing lights, a two • 10:00 PM – Service of Holy Eucharist story animated fountain and a Wednesday, December 24, Christmas Eve Gingerbread Village. Admission: $13 • 4:00 PM - Family Service of Holy Thursday, December 25, Christmas Day adults, $8 children ages 3-12; Eucharist, with Children’s Sermon, and • 9:30 AM – Service of Holy Eucharist children under 3 are free. Photo by Kenneth Gall/Courtesy of Pat Hazell “A Kodachrome Christmas” with Jay Byrd as Earlene With God’s help, we offer healing, nurture hope and provide hospitality. THROUGH WEDNESDAY/ The Rev. Carol Hancock, Interim Rector MARCH 11, 2015 Hoople comes to the Alden Theatre in McLean, Dec. 19-21. Ice Skating at Tysons Corner Center. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. - with caregiver enjoy an early literacy Great Falls Toys and play for 9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 storytime enhanced by songs and children. Coffee and Conversation for p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.- 7 p.m.Tysons rhythms. Sign up for waiting list. grown-ups. Corner Outdoor Center, 1961 Chain Artist Opening Reception. 7-9 p.m. Drop-in Chess & Backgammon. 5649 Mount Gilead Rd • Centreville, VA 20120-1906 Bridge Road, Tysons. Adults,$10; Havana Vintage, 1137 Walker Road, 3:30 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Child/Senior/Military, $9; Skate Great Falls. Artist Cecilia Aquino will Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. All 703-803-7500 • www.StJohnsCentreville.org Rental, $6; Group of 10+, $12 and be exhibiting her artwork at Havana skill levels welcome. includes skates Vintage, a boutique in Great Falls. It is a consignment shop with very FRIDAY-SUNDAY/DEC. 19-21 interesting finds. “A Kodachrome Christmas.” 2 & 8 WEDNESDAY/DEC. 17 p.m. The Alden, 1234 Ingleside Pokémon League. 4:30 p.m. Great Avenue, McLean. From the creator of Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, THURSDAY/DEC. 18 “The Wonder Bread Years” and a Great Falls. Come play Pokémon with Winter Concert. 7 p.m. Oakton High writer for “Seinfeld” comes a one- your friends! Ages 5-15. School, 2900 Sutton Road, Vienna. woman, cable-access holiday special. Storytime With Furry Puppet The Oakton High School Orchestra Enter the colorful world of Earlene Friends. 10:30a.m. Dolley Madison will be performing a winter concert. Hoople as she entertains with Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Avenue, Free. participatory bell ringing, cookie McLean. Ages 2-5 with caregiver. Oakton Book Discussion Group. 7 baking, a family slide show, some Join puppets and games guides on a p.m. Oakton Library, 10304 outrageous advice for surviving the journey through the life of a Lynnhaven Place, Oakton. Come and holidays with relatives… and a whole mammal. Real mamal fur and skulls join Oakton’s book discussion group. lot more. help you learn about how they We will discuss Corelli’s Mandolin by adapted and survived. Call and make Louis De Bernieres. Adults. SUNDAY/DEC. 21 arrangements for sign language Living Nativity. 5 p.m. Great Falls interpreters, listening systems or real- United Methodist Church, 10100 time captioning. FRIDAY/DEC. 19 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. A Live Small Wonders. 10:30 a.m. Oakton Art & Acoustic Bluegrass. 7-9 p.m. Nativity outside. There will also be a Library, 10304 Lynnhaven Place, Vienna Art Center, 115 Pleasant St. Blue Christmas Worship at 7 p.m. in Oakton. Short stories for you and NW, Vienna. Bring your acoustic the sanctuary. 703-759-3705 or your child. Ages 13-23 months with stringed instrument, your voice, your [email protected]. adult. love of original art and join with the Glorious Sounds of Christmas. 4 Newborn Storytime - Rock-A- jam. Plenty of parking, chairs and a and 7 p.m. Vienna Presbyterian Bye Baby. 11:30. Patrick Henry wooden floor to carry the sound. Church, 124 Park Street, NE, Vienna. Library, 101 Maple Avenue East, Free. Playdate Café. 10 a.m. Great Vienna. Newborn to 12-months-olds Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, See Calendar, Page 11 You Can Make a Difference

Cats benefit from being in a foster home. We need long- and short-term fosters for cats of all ages, mothers with litters and kittens on their own.

visit our website, Consider Fostering click on Participate Adopt/Donate/Volunteer at www.lostdogrescue.org

10 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar Celebrating our 50th Anniversary From Page 10

Free concert with performances. SOUTH DAKOTA, July 14-20,...... $2119 Includes air from Washington 6-Nights Hotel in Rapid City, So. Dakota, Daily Breakfast, 3 Dinners, Sightseeing Transfers, Porterage, Taxes. MONDAY/DEC. 22 Spanish Conversation Group. 1 MOTORCOACH DAY TRIP TO ALLENBERRY PLAYHOUSE Sat., June 20 to see “Damn Yankees”,..... $99 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Includes Motorcoach from Vienna or Rockville, Buffet Luncheon, Performance, Taxes Georgetown Pike, Great Falls Practice & Gratuities. Spanish as a foreign language in this CUBA, April 5-13, ...... $4949 casual conversation group. Evening ESL Conversation Includes Air from Washington, 8-Nights Hotel, All meals but one, Transfers, Group. 7 p.m. Great Falls Library, Sightseeing, VISA Fee, Porterage, Health Insurance. 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. SHILLELAGHS TRAVEL CLUB Practice speaking English in this 100 East Street SE, Suite 202 • Vienna, Virginia 22180 informal conversation group. 703-242-2204 1-800-556-8646 Please visit our Web site at: www.shillelaghtravelclub.com TUESDAY/DEC. 30 for a listing of all our upcoming trips and socials. Winter Science Workshop for Kids. 3:30 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Children will learn hands-on in this iSchool workshop. Registration required for this event. Ages 8-12.

WEDNESDAY/DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve in Entyse Wine Bar & Lounge. 9 p.m. to Midnight. The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard, McLean. Celebrate the New Year with live musical entertainment provided by The Christopher Linman Jazz Ensemble and culinary delights. As Kyle Knight Ins Agcy Inc off the clock strikes midnight, welcome $ Kyle Knight, Agent 5 2015 with a complimentary Your purchase of $25 champagne toast. $100 minimum 11736 Bowman Green Drive food & beverage purchase per Reston, VA 20190 off person. $ ACROSS FROM RESTON TOWN CENTER 10 First Night Vienna. 7 p.m. - midnight. Your purchase of $50 or more Town of Vienna, Church Street. A WWW.KYLEKNIGHT.ORG family-friendly New Year’s Eve PLATO’S CLOSET • 703-421-8470 703-435-2300 Must present coupon. Celebration. Featuring music, food, Not valid with any other offers. kids entertainment, and more. Four Expires 1/31/15 free music venues, a dance party, glitter tattoos, face painting, arts & 45591 Dulles Eastern Plaza • Suite 138 • Sterling, VA 20166 crafts, balloon twisting, fire pits, corn hole, s’mores, popcorn popping, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, party hats, and much much more. Jammin’ Java’s Good Vibes New Year’s Party Featuring Visit These Houses of Worship Melodime. p.m. Jammin’ Java, 227 Maple East Avenue, Vienna. To Highlight Your Faith Community, MELODIME, a rock band that blends haunting bittersweet melodies with call Karen at 703-917-6468 emotionally rich vocals atop a bed of Southern-flavored alt rock, is not like most bands. Tickets: $25-$35. https/ Welcoming, Diverse, Progressive /jamminjava.com ST. ANNE’S THURSDAY/JAN. 8, 2015 Dobet Gnahoré. 8 p.m. The Barns EPISCOPAL Wolftrap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna. CHURCH • Reston Discover delicate ballads and sensuous African grooves from this Grammy-winning vocalist, 8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite I percussionist, and dancer praised as 10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II one of contemporary African music’s 5:00 p.m. Come Just as You Are Contemporary Service most charismatic talents. $25-30. 703-255-1900. http:// Nursery care provided at 10:00 a.m. service www.wolftrap.org/Barns.aspx. The Rev. James Papile, Rector FRIDAY/JAN. 9, 2015 The Rev. Laura Cochran, Assoc. Rector The Ying Quartet. 8 p.m. The Barns 703-437-6530 Wolftrap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna. www.stannes-reston.org Ying Quartet occupies a position of 1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston unique prominence in the classical music world, combining brilliantly communicative performances with a fearlessly imaginative view of chamber music in today’s world. $35. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF VIENNA 703-255-1900. http:// www.wolftrap.org/Barns.aspx. 450 ORCHARD STREET, NW THURSDAY/JAN. 15, 2015 VIENNA, VA 22180 Kevin Griffin. 8 p.m. The Barns 703-938-8525 Wolftrap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna. A rare solo show by the frontman and [email protected] songwriting mastermind of alt-rock www.fbcv.org band Better Than Ezra, who has written for Train, Sugarland, James SUNDAY WORSHIP, 7:45 AM & 11:00 AM Blunt, Howie Day, Missy Higgins, Blondie, and more. $25-27. 703-255- CHURCH SCHOOL 9:30AM-10:30AM 1900. http://www.wolftrap.org/ MIDWEEK SERVICES, WED. 7:00 PM Barns.aspx. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 11 Sports Basketball Roundups Oakton Girls’ Basketball Beats Yorktown The Oakton girls’ basketball team defeated Yorktown 64-39 on Dec. 9, improving its record to 4-1. The Cougars faced Lake Braddock on Tuesday, after The Connection’s dead- line. Oakton will travel to face Stafford at7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18. Marshall Boys’ Basketball to Host Madison The Madison boys’ basketball team will travel to face Marshall at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19. Madison won its season opener Nate Shafer and the Langley boys’ basketball team Jackie Litschewski and the Langley girls’ basketball against Oakton before dropping three beat McLean on Friday. team defeated McLean on Friday. straight. The Warhawks faced John Champeon Monday. Marshall also dropped three of its first four, beating Centreville and los- Langley Basketball Sweeps Rival McLean ing to Annandale, Woodgrove and South Lakes. he Langley girls’ and boys’ McLean dropped to 1-3. The Highland- After the girls’ victory, the Langley boys The Statesmen faced Falls Church basketball teams swept rival ers lost to Wakefield and Robinson and de- beat McLean 41-38 for their first win of the on Tuesday. T McLean in a doubleheader feated Woodson. season. The Saxons faced Fairfax on Tues- on Friday, Dec. 12 at McLean Langley faced Fairfax on Tuesday, after day and will travel to face Chantilly at 7:30 High School. The Connection’s deadline. The Saxons will p.m. on Friday. The Langley girls opened with a 46-33 host Chantilly at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. The Highlanders faced Stone Bridge on victory, improving their record to 3-0. The 19. McLean faced Stone Bridge on Tuesday. Tuesday and will host Westfield at 7:30 p.m. Saxons opened the seasons with wins over The Highlanders will host Westfield at 5:45 on Friday. INTENSELY INTERESTING Osbourn and Herndon. p.m. on Friday. Photos by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection COMMUNITY INVOLVED COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE

to your community • Alexandria Gazette Packet • Arlington Connection • Burke Connection • Centre View • Chantilly Connection • Fairfax Connection • Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection • Great Falls Connection • McLean Connection • Mount Vernon Gazette • Oak Hill/Herndon Connection • Potomac Almanac • Reston Connection • Springfield Connection • Vienna/Oakton Connection Freshman point guard Jordyn Callaghan and the Great Papers • Great Connections Langley girls’ basketball team started the 2014-15 Langley junior guard Blake Mintz shoots a jumper Great Readers! season with three consecutive victories. against McLean on Friday.

12 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com An Essay To Remember Local educators offer advice on acing independent school admission essays and interviews. By Marilyn Campbell The Connection prepared to ask questions,” said Some schools even require the Scott Conklin, director of admis- admission essay to be completed hile many are sions, Episcopal High School in in person. knee-deep in Alexandria. “This is also an oppor- “We want to see a student’s true, W wrapping paper tunity to brag about your interests, natural writing ability, and we are and eggnog, talents and accomplishments. ... interested in assessing their abil- some students are holed up with Be humble, but make sure you let ity to develop and present a cohe- computer keyboards and books of us know all about you.” sive, thoughtful essay on the spot,” quotations. In addition to driving That doesn’t mean you should said Michael Cresson, director of to the mall for holiday shopping, ignore your flaws, however. “We admissions, Bishop O’Connell some parents are throwing rapid- look for genuine conversations High School in Arlington. “A pol- fire questions at their children to that convey the student’s real in- ished essay prepared at home with make sure they are fast on their terests and passions,” said lots of edits really doesn’t tell us feet. Photo courtesy of Audra Wrisley Simpson. “We also want students what we want to know to best For students and parents who and parents to be open to talking evaluate an applicant.” Students at Episcopal High School in Alexandria collabo- hope for slots at the area’s top in- about strengths and weaknesses.” No matter where the essay is rate on a school project. Essays and interviews help dependent schools next year, ’tis written however, the same basic admissions teams determine how an applicant would fit admissions season. THE ADMISSION ESSAY is an- writing advice applies. into the school community. “As a school we want to know other opportunity for students to “We are looking for students to what the relationship will be be- schools. Richardson Miller, director of ad- reveal facets of their personalities express themselves and give us an tween what a student brings to the “We try to encourage students mission and financial aid at The that might not be obvious through insight into what kind of person table and what we will need to to view the interview as a conver- Madeira School in McLean. “The test scores, transcripts and even he or she is,” Cresson said. “My bring to the table,” said Tim sation,” said Julie Jameson, direc- girl and her parents should be ask- letters of recommendation, said suggestions for students … would Simpson, assistant head of school tor of admissions at St. Andrew’s ing as many questions of me as I Patricia Harden, director of admis- be … to proofread their essay, al- and director of admission and fi- Episcopal School in Potomac. am asking of her,” she said. “After sions and financial aid at Connelly low for enough time, do some re- nancial aid at Bullis School in “They should feel comfortable … all, this will be her school for the School of the Holy Child in search on the school and include Potomac, Md. be themselves … and feel free to next four years, and fit is critical, Potomac. “It should be a well- that in the essay. “These are simple Interviews are opportunities for ask any questions they might both for us, but also for the girl written snapshot of how an appli- suggestions, but it is disappoint- admissions teams to get to know have.” and her parents.” cant thinks and how she under- ing as a director to read through applicants and their parents, and In fact, the interview is really a “Learn as much as you can about stands some aspect of her world,” essays and find simple mistakes share information about their two-way street, says Ann the school before your visit and be Harden said. and see that it was rushed.”

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14 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-778-9411 Cappies Reviews Zone 6: • Arlington • Great Falls Classified Zone 6 Ad Deadline: • McLean • Vienna/Oakton Monday Noon Fictional Town, Real for Viewers

26 Antiques 102 Instruction 102 Instruction ominous sounds and lights the fit the scene. Madison High’s Actor chemistry is the binding force of We pay top $ for antique furniture and mid-century dramatic interpretation, and “Our Town” Danish/modern production of would be nothing without it. All of the ac- teak furniture, STERLING, NEWSPAPERS MEN'S WATCHES, jewelry tors in James Madison’s “Our Town” had and costume jewelry, “Our Town.” paintings/art glass/clocks. effective emotional bindings and feelings for Schefer Antiques @ By Lucas Strigel one another. I felt as if they knew each other 703-241-0790. Email:[email protected] Tuscarora High School for all of their life, which immersed the audience. Another thing that added into the 17 Housesitting lays can transport one to new places, immersion was the use of effective panto- Pperhaps a magical land, a pivotal mime. The various actors performed their CLASSIFIED HOUSESITTING point in history, or perhaps the small daily tasks as if it was second nature, a good Fully employed and reliable amount of work went into the pantomim- mid-career non-smoker can 101 Computers 101 Computers town of Grover’s Corners. While it might ensure your home is not sound stale, “Our Town,” produced by ing. One of the best moments of the show For Local… vacant while you are away long-term. I am saving to James Madison High School, is a phenom- was when the two main children (Matthew buy a condo here in North- OMPUTER OLUTIONS enal play that always pulled me into the Landsdell and Caroline Campbell) were •Employment ern Virginia and also I am HDI C S an out-of-state home owner. JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995 lives of these small town people. conversing from their windows. They were I work as a professional •Employees accountant. Please contact ➣ Speed up Slow Computers “Our Town” was written in 1938 by none across the street from each other, but I could me at ➣ Troubleshooting other than Thornton Wilder. The play is set feel the bond between them. What sealed •Services [email protected] or ➣ Virus Removal in the small American town of Grover’s this bond was the faint church choirs sing- •Entertainment 224-0034 area code 843" ➣ Computer Setup Corners, New Hampshire, during the early ing in the background, one could actually •Announcements (571) 265-2038 20th century. The “Stage Manager” acts as feel a part of their town. An expert [email protected] a narrator throughout the production, In order to create a town with no set •Real Estate is someone showing the everyday lives of the people pieces, you have to have someone describe it to you, and that’s where the Stage Man- 26 Antiques 26 Antiques who reside in the small town. Wilder de- •Cars who knows cided to try something new, he decided to ager (Mitch Coomer) came in. Coomer had •Trucks some of the use minimal set pieces and props, relying a voice of gold, every little thing that came worst mistakes Falls Church AntiqueS on the use of pantomime. His logic behind out of his mouth was perfectly enunciated •Vans that can be Best Kept Secret of The Metro Area! this was “I know it’s a play, you know it’s a with appropriate diction. Given into the •RV’s made in his Unique collection of antiques and collectibles, play, the only thing that’s real in a play is wrong hands, the Stage Manager wouldn’t including furniture, jewelry, glassware, pottery, emotion,” so that’s all he focused on. A dif- be the interesting narrator that he was in •Boats subject and how sterling silver, paintings, prints and more! to avoid them. Fun home and gift ideas! ficult task, but given in the right hands, “Our this show. Christmas Shop Now Open! Town” grew into a huge success, winning The audience was always looking forward •Pets -Werner to hearing what he had to say, Coomer was Heisenberg Falls Church Antique Co. the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1938. •Yard Sales 250W. Broad St. Falls Church, Va • 703-2419642 Surprisingly enough, James Madison did an excellent casting choice. •Crafts a great job of painting the image of their The emotional binds brought everyone 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements town with minimal and simple tech. Chad together, and pulled the audience in. James •Hobbies Robertson did a superb job on sound cues, Madison may have thought they put on a they were always on point but not over- play, but it was much more than that. “Our •And More! whelming whatsoever. Josh Laney, who Town” hit the audience on an emotional worked on the lights, used different light- level that they won’t forget soon. This show For All ing cues for the different times of day, a really made one think about life and the cloudy moon, and even the stained glass purpose behind it. Although Grover’s Cor- Your windows of a church! The tech never over- ners is a fictional town, it will be real to the Advertising powered the actors, but always provided viewers forever. Needs… Bulletin Board

To have community events listed in the Connec- English Conversation One-on One. 1:30 p.m. tion, send to [email protected]. The Oakton Library, 10304 Lynnhaven Place, It Works. deadline for submissions is the Friday prior to pub- Oakton. English practice for a non-native lication. speaker with a library volunteer. Call for Week HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO appointment. Adults. WEDNESDAY/DEC. 17 Patrick Henry Book Club For Adults. 1 After Week. Morning Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Great Falls p.m. Patrick Henry Library, 101 Maple Avenue Newspapers & Online Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Call East, Vienna. What’s Next by Ann Patchett. branch for book title. Homework Help 1st-8th Grade. 6 p.m. Lorton 703 CLASSIFIED ESL Conversation Group. 2 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton. Drop DEADLINES Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. in for homework help. 917-6400 Zones 1, 5, 6...... Mon @ noon Practice English in this casual conversation “Not Just For Teens” Book Club For Adults. Zones 2, 3, 4...... Tues @ noon group. 7 p.m. Patrick Henry Library, 101 Maple Avenue East, Vienna. Join us for desserts and a E-mail ad with zone choices to: classified@connection English Conversation Group for Adults. 1 p.m. Dolley Madison Library, 1244 Oak Ridge delightful discussion of Let It Snow by John Place newspapers.com or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411 Avenue, McLean. Come practice conversational Green, Lauren Myracle and Maureen Johnson. EMPLOYMENT English in a group setting. Your DEADLINES Zones 1, 5, 6...... Mon @ noon THURSDAY/DEC. 18 FRIDAY/DEC. 19 Ad Zones 2, 3, 4...... Tues @ noon New Voting Equipment Demonstration. 4 New Voting Equipment Demonstration. E-mail ad with zone choices to: classified@connection p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, 11a.m. Dolley Madison Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Today! newspapers.com or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411 Great Falls. Staff from the Fairfax County Office Avenue, McLean. Do not miss this opportunity and come see for yourself! Fairfax County Office ZONES of Elections will provide an opportunity to see and try out the brand new voting machines as of Elections staff will process your photo ID and Zone 1: The Reston Connection Zone 4: Centre View North voter registration through the brand-new voting The Oak Hill/Herndon Connection Centre View South well as provide an opportunity for photo ID processing and voter registration. machine. to your community Zone 2: The Springfield Connection Zone 5: The Potomac Almanac The Burke Connection Zone 6: The Arlington Connection Reading Buddies. 4:30 p.m. Great Falls English Conversation for Adults. 10 a.m. The Fairfax Connection The Vienna/Oakton Patrick Henry Library, 101 Maple Avenue East, The Fairfax Station/Clifton/ Connection Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Lorton Connection The McLean Connection Beginning readers and teens practice reading Vienna. Practise your English skills in a group Zone 3: The Alexandria Gazette Packet The Great Falls together. setting. The Mount Vernon Gazette Connection Evening Book Group. 7:30 p.m. Great Falls Pokemon League. 3 p.m. Patrick Henry Library, Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Call 101 Maple Avenue East, Vienna. Age 5-18 learn branch for Title. and play Pokemon. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 ❖ 15 www.GreatFallsGreatHomes.com

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16 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ December 17-23, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com