HomeLifeStyle Page 6

Fairfax High 2017 grad Emily Dillard sells her book, “The Golden Gift,” during the Twins Ace holiday party, Dec. 1, celebrat- ing Fairfax’s City’s annual Festival of Lights and Carols. Fairfax’s Festival Of Lights Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, 8 Classifieds, And Carols Holiday Fun, Page 9

Sharon Bulova Announces

She Will Not Seek Re-election

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News, Page 2 STD PRSRT Photo By Bonnie Hobbs/The Connection Photo December 13-19, 2018 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com News ‘I Find There’s Nothing Redeeming about You’ to try to beat the charge.” Ozcan sentenced to “There are people who Before his sentencing, on Nov. 30, Sandra exist in darkness – and Chavez – the eldest of Ascencio’s three 40 years prison for daughters – explained how her mother’s you are one of them.” death affected the family. She also said her killing pedestrian. parents were married 49 years and had five —Judge Thomas Mann, Fairfax By Bonnie Hobbs grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; The Connection County Circuit Court her father died, three years before her mother. airfax resident Kenan Ozcan was Sentenced: The victim, POLICE arrested Ozcan there with keys to “It’s been very difficult losing my mother,” sentenced recently to 40 years in Kenan Ozcan Maria Ascencio a rental car with front-end damage. said Chavez. “Every day, my kids and grand- prison for murdering an elderly, Ascencio’s DNA was found on its windshield children ask, ‘Where is my grandmother?’ F She was dedicated to her family; she came Fair Oaks woman. But first, Judge Ascencio died at the scene and Ozcan fled, wipers and undercarriage. The coroner said Thomas Mann – clearly moved by the cal- but police captured him, a few hours later. she died of blunt-force trauma to the head, to the U.S., 20 years ago, and was a model lousness of the crime against an innocent On July 31, in Fairfax County Circuit Court, torso and extremities. citizen. She loved to take walks every morn- victim – addressed Ozcan directly. he pleaded guilty to her murder. At that While in jail, said Sloane, Ozcan “told his ing, and this was a sad loss for everyone – “Maria Ascencio lived 77 years, only to time, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney cellmate the victim’s head hit his vehicle and especially the way it happened.” be assassinated by you,” said Mann. “She Brandon Sloane noted that several wit- he ran over her again to make sure she was Ascencio was a professor, and Chavez said leaves behind a family suffering her absence nesses saw the incident. dead. He said he just wanted to kill some- her death has also been hard on her stu- in a way you could never understand. There “They said the impact threw [Ascencio] one because he was upset about things in dents, as well as her brother and three sis- are good people in this world who do bad in the air, 10-15 feet,” he said. “Then the his life. ters. “She dreamed of living at least 20 more things, there are people who are just bad, vehicle made a U-turn and accelerated “He said he’d planned it for two days and years,” said Chavez. “It’s been difficult not and there are people who exist in darkness through the intersection to hit her again that, initially, he wanted to kill a family – having her here on Thanksgiving, Mother’s – and you are one of them.” before fleeing north on Rugby.” maybe a van full of children,” continued Day and Christmas.” Crying, she added, The tragedy happened April 14, 2017, A couple hours later, police were called Sloane. “Then he saw [Ascencio] and “Not one minute has gone by without me shortly before 10:15 a.m., near the inter- to a Fair Oaks gym in response to a rob- thought she’d be a perfect victim. He said, thinking of her.” section of Route 50 and Rugby Road in Fair bery. “A customer there saw the defendant after he hit her, he saw her still moving, so Testifying next was Alcira Ascencio, Oaks. Maria Amaya de Ascencio, was cross- behind the counter and told him he didn’t he struck her again.” Chavez’s younger sister, speaking on behalf ing Rugby Road when Ozcan, then 31, belong there,” said Sloane. “She tried to Sloane said Ozcan told his cellmate he’d of herself and her twin sister in El Salva- struck her with a 2016 Dodge Dart. Then, photograph him with her phone, and he “robbed people before and wanted to know dor. She said her mother always loved and for good measure, he turned the vehicle assaulted her, took her phone and ripped what it was like to kill someone. He also protected her children and taught her around and ran over her again. her shirt.” said he was going to pretend he was crazy See Ozcan, Page 7

2 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected]

Silver Line Phase 1 Opening Day.

Courtesy photos Bulova Reflects on Sharon Bulova with the Board of Supervisors. Getting Started Sharon Bulova Announces Chairman looks forward to She Will Not Seek Re-election ‘more time with family and n Thursday, Dec. 6, Chairman Sharon triple A Bond rating, founding Faith Communities in grandchildren, time for travel, Bulova of the Fairfax County Board of Action, initiating Communities of Trust, convening OSupervisors announced that she will the Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission, to entertain, to smell the roses.’ not be seeking re-election in 2019. helping launch Diversion First, facilitating the new “It has been an honor to serve the Fairfax County vision and plan for Tysons, and spearheading numer- In her own words: community,” Chairman Bulova said. “During these ous environmental, historical and cultural initiatives past 30 years, I have been privileged to work along- on behalf of the residents of Fairfax County. emory is funny. If to who would run for the open side dedicated elected officials at ev- “There is still much to do and con- M you asked me what Annandale District seat. ery level of government, with talented, tribute,” Chairman Bulova said. “My I did last Tuesday I “Sharon Bulova,” announced caring county staff and a county full term does not end until the end of next would be hard pressed to fill in Florence Naeve. I looked up of enthusiastic community volunteers. year. I look forward to working with you the details. Some things, how- from my Sweet and Sour Pork While I will not be running for re-elec- during these months ahead and thank ever, remain frozen in time, down laughing, thinking that she was tion in 2019 I sure do have a lot to you for your engagement, support and to seemingly insignificant details. joking. To my horror, my look back on with great satisfaction.” participation in your community.” Lunch at Hunan West on Jan. friends’ expressions were elec- Bulova served as the Braddock Dis- The upcoming election for the 11, 1987 is one of those memo- trified. They excitedly began trict Supervisor on the Fairfax County Fairfax County Board of Supervisors ries. I was working as an Aide listing all the reasons why this Board of Supervisors from 1988 - will take place on Nov. 5, 2019, and to Annandale District Supervi- was a good idea. I countered 2009, and was elected Chairman of the new Board will begin its work on sor Audrey Moore. She had with a list of my shortcomings, the Board of Supervisors in a special Jan. 1, 2020. pretty much made up her mind why I couldn’t possibly run for election in 2009. She was re-elected to run for Chairman of the office, starting with a phobia Chairman in 2011 and again in 2015. Chairman Sharon IN OTHER NEWS, more change is Board of Supervisors against about speaking in public. The year 2019 will mark her 10th year Bulova coming to the Fairfax County Board incumbent Jack Herrity. My co- Carolyn smiled broadly and ex- as Chairman and her 31st year as a of Supervisors. Supervisor John Cook workers, Florence, Carolyn and claimed, “And see! You’re so member of the Board of Supervisors. (R-Braddock) has announced he will not seek re-elec- Janet, and I had escaped the modest and organized!” During her career, Chairman Bulova is proud of tion in 2019. Supervisor Linda Smyth (D-Providence) office for lunch in the Kings Sometimes routine events her role in founding the VRE commuter rail system, has also announced that she will not seek re-elec- Park Shopping Center. like lunch with friends can piloting Metro’s Silver Line Phase 1 over the finish tion in 2019. Supervisor Jeff McKay (D) has an- We began discussing Audrey’s line, navigating through the Great Recession and fed- nounced that he will run for Chairman in 2019, va- plans, then the subject shifted See Bulova, Page 10 eral sequestration while retaining Fairfax County’s cating his Lee District seat. Reactions “I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with lawyer entering the political world. She was (and is) Ensuring Prosperity, Sharon Bulova for more than 20 years and she is a true the gold standard by which local officials can be mea- community treasure. Under her leadership, she turned the sured. Her retirement marks the end of an era in Fairfax Quality of Life idea of the Virginia Railway Express into a reality. As Chair- County which history will remember as one of prosper- U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA): man, she guided the County through the worst of the Great ity and good will.” “As former mayor to a city of 200,000 people, I have Recession, while still maintaining the critical investments enormous respect for Sharon Bulova’s leadership of a and services that Fairfax residents have come to expect. county of 1.1 million. Over the past 30 years, Fairfax And over her years of public service, she has helped trans- A Strong Proponent of County’s population has grown by nearly half, and form our community into one that is envied by all others. Sharon’s service during that time has played a major “Sharon’s time on the Board will be remembered for her Economic Growth role in ensuring the prosperity and quality of life ac- decency and commitment to collegiality, her willingness to Gerald L. Gordon, Ph.D., president and CEO of the companying that growth. Congratulations, Sharon, on listen to her constituents and bring people together, and her Fairfax County Economic Development Authority: a job well done.” drive to leave Fairfax a better place for future generations. I “Chairman Bulova has been a strong and effec- want to thank my dear friend for her lifetime of service and tive proponent of economic growth and the Eco- the undeniable mark she has left on our community.” nomic Development Authority and me personally A True Community for many years. The effects of her leadership will be felt throughout the county for generations to Treasure Gold Standard come. Her support of our global outreach market- U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11), former Chairman of State Sen. Chap Petersen (D-34) ing has been particularly forward-looking and ef- the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors: “I first met Sharon Bulova in 1996 when I was a young fective over the years.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 ❖ 3 Opinion Fairfax Every year is Election Year in Virginia; sometimes www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Holidays Speed By @FfxConnection every month … An independent, locally owned weekly ur last live newspapers of 2018 newspaper delivered to will come out next Tuesday and Virginia State Senate, as Jennifer Wexton va- up for election. We already know that there homes and businesses. Published by OWednesday, Dec. 18 and Dec. 19. cates that seat to head to U.S. Congress in will be significant turnover, with many new Local Media Connection LLC Editors are already working on Virginia’s 10th District. candidates to get to know. Primaries will likely hundreds of submissions for our Children’s On Election Day polls are open from 6 a.m. be in June. 1606 King Street Connections, which will come out in the days until 7 p.m. Joe T. May (R) faces Jennifer B. The 2019 session of Virginia’s General As- Alexandria, Virginia 22314 between Christmas and New Year’s. Our first Boysko (D). If Boysko should win, another sembly begins Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019. Free digital edition delivered to regular newspapers will come out in Special Election will be scheduled to For families, we can point you back to holi- your email box. Go to the first week of January, 2019. Editorial fill her seat in the Virginia House of day happenings; breathe and enjoy some hot connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe Don’t miss our holiday calendars in Delegates. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ chocolate with your children and neighbors. these weeks, with so many local things elections/upcoming Letters to the editor go to http:// NEWS DEPARTMENT: to do. And later in 2019, every seat on the Fairfax www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/let- [email protected] Among things to do is to watch for a Special County Board of Supervisors, every seat on the ter/ or [email protected] Kemal Kurspahic Election Day on Tuesday, Jan. 8, to fill the un- School Board, every seat in the Virginia House Get a free digital subscription here: http:// Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 expired term of the 33rd District seat in the of Delegates and Virginia Senate, and more are www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe/ [email protected] Letters to the Editor Bonnie Hobbs Community Reporter ❖ 703-778-9438 ‘It’s the Most [email protected] Welcoming Andrea Worker Wonderful Time Contributing Writer Amazon [email protected] To the Editor: of the Year’ Jean Card The following open letter was Twins Ace Hardware Production Editor addressed to Amazon. employees, from left, [email protected] Matt Puckett, Lauri Welcome to Northern Virginia! Vargas and Audie ADVERTISING: As the timeframe for your decision Gonzalez, sport For advertising information e-mail: on HQ2 drew closer, those of us matching sweaters [email protected] who already call this region home during the store’s 703-778-9431 began to think about how we’d Christmas party for welcome you to our community. the community, cel- Debbie Funk Display Advertising/National Sales Community foundations have a ebrating Fairfax’s 703-778-9444 more than 100-year history as City’s annual Festival [email protected] community conveners and conver- of Lights and Carols sation brokers who work tirelessly on Dec. 1. David Griffin Marketing Assistant to preserve, enhance and protect Photo By Bonnie Hobbs/ 703-778-9431 the quality of life for our neigh- The Connection [email protected] bors. This role often places us di- rectly in the middle of our Classified & Employment Advertising community’s most important de- Your arrival in Northern Vir- School teacher, for years I took my 703-778-9431 cisions, most pressing issues, and ginia gives us all a chance to cre- Time is fourth grade classes to the Farm most promising opportunities. ate a more regional, collaborative to live three days and two nights Many in our community believe approach to local philanthropy Running Out to in the year 1771. It truly was “liv- Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm that your decision to locate HQ2 that brings to bear the full capac- ing history.” This program contin- [email protected] in Northern Virginia is the most ity and weight of our nonprofit Save the Farm ues to this day as schools from Vir- @MaryKimm impactful event to happen in each partners, our collective commu- To the Editor: ginia, Maryland and D.C. bring Executive Vice President of these categories in a generation. nity knowledge, and our shared With only days left, I am writ- students to participate in colonial Jerry Vernon Your arrival will bring jobs, criti- impulse to help build community ing to urge you and your readers encampments. As a mom, I was 703-549-0004 cal advancements in the quality of through philanthropy. We look to help save The Claude Moore one of many who took their chil- [email protected] our public transportation, invest- forward to working with you, Colonial Farm at Turkey Run in dren there to learn about colonial Editor in Chief ments in technology education, problem solving with you, and McLean. The National Park Service life at Market Fairs and through Steven Mauren and opportunities for small busi- advancing our community’s best intends to “terminate” (their many other farm events. Managing Editor nesses that will serve you and the interests, together. word) the Farm on Dec. 21, 2018. To date, more than 12,480 Kemal Kurspahic workers you attract — among For over forty years, this special people have signed the Save the Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, many other things. Like you, we Heather Peeler place has been a very important Farm petition. Information on Ali Khaligh want our neighborhoods to be di- President & CEO, ACT for part of my life and so many oth- how to help can be found on the Production Manager: verse and vibrant places to live and Alexandria ers. Its loss would be huge for the Farm’s website— http:// Geovani Flores work. We want our economic de- Jennifer Owens community at large. 1771.org/savethefarm While leg- velopment to be a rising tide that President & CEO, Arlington While it began as a National islation has moved to the floor in CIRCULATION lifts all boats. Companies and com- Community Foundation Park, the Farm was turned over to the House of Representatives, no Circulation Manager: munity foundations have worked Amy Owen the Friends of Claude Moore Co- legislation has even been intro- Ann Oliver in tandem to address local issues President, Community Founda- lonial Farm in 1981 and has been duced in the Senate by the Vir- [email protected] for over a century. It is therefore tion for Loudoun & Northern a successful, private endeavor ever ginia Senators. Legislation must our deepest hope that in partner- Fauquier Counties since. The Farm portrays the life pass the Senate by Dec. 14. Time ship, we can reimagine solutions Eileen Ellsworth of a lower-class, homesteading is running out. to workforce development, afford- President & CEO, Community Virginia family during the late The historical learning experi- able housing and other social Foundation for Northern Virginia Colonial period. It offers a unique ences offered by the Farm are so problems, perhaps driven by Bruce McNamer historical perspective and oppor- worth saving. imaginative technology-depen- President & CEO, Northern tunities to engage in colonial liv- dent solutions not yet seen that we Virginia Greater Washington ing experiences. May Ohman invent together. Community Foundation As a Fairfax County Public Arlington

4 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin Your “Nicely Done” Kitchen or Bath is Right Around the Corner! Submit civic/community announce- ments at ConnectionNewspapers.com/ A “One-Stop Shop” That Goes Above and Beyond Your Imagination Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event.

SOBER-RIDE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Free Sober Rides. 8 p.m.-4 a.m. daily, Dec. 14-Jan. 1. Area residents, 21 and older, may download Lyft to their phones, then enter a code in the app’s “Promo” section to receive a no cost (up to $15) safe ride home (limited quantities available). WRAP’s Holiday SoberRide promo code will be posted at www.SoberRide.com.

HOLIDAY DONATIONS Sponsor a Local Family. Through Dec. 14, Fairfax-based non-profit Britepaths (formerly Our Daily Bread) is seeking volunteers to sponsor families in need who live throughout the Fairfax County area. Sponsors are matched with an individual or family with demonstrated need, and may opt to provide a December holiday meal, and/or gifts for children under 18. Cash donations and gift cards are Find us on Houzz, welcome to assist those who are not sponsored. A wonderful family, Facebook, & Angie’s List! company or group holiday service project. Register and learn more at britepaths.org. Contact 703-273-8829 or [email protected]. Toy Drive. Through Friday, Dec. 14 at local Weichert, Realtors offices. Members of the community are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys at the company’s sales offices. Kings’s Park Shopping Center The toys will be delivered throughout 8934 Burke Lake Road, Springfield VA 22151 the holidays in conjunction with local 703-764-3748 www.nicelydonekitchens.com charities that assist financially and See Bulletin, Page 7

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Photo by Home on Cameron Photo courtesy of Anne Walker Todd Martz of Home on Cameron in Old Potomac designer Anne Walker used Town Alexandria suggests adding a decora- Thibaut wallpaper to make the room a tive mirrors for a quick bathroom update. “fabulous, joyful place to visit,” she said. Preparing for Holiday Guests

ners of the room.” Sprucing-up a bathroom Among the more mundane tasks is to visually in- spect the bathroom’s grout to check for cracks and without a renovation. stubborn, unsightly mold. Re-grouting might be nec- essary, says Chuck Khiel, vice president of Fred Home By Marilyn Campbell Improvement. “When making a repair, it is very im- portant to remove all of the cracked grout in the joint mid the tree-trimming, wreath hanging so that the full edge of the tile is exposed,” he said. and stocking stuffing in an effort to deck “The new grout can then bond to the full thickness Athe halls in anticipation of holiday guests, of the tile edge. Simply smearing a thin layer of new there’s one space that can be forgotten: grout over old grout will not work.” the humble bathroom. While not as festive as hang- Once the room is sparkling clean and totally ing garland, a few simple tweaks can transform a decluttered, Walker suggests adding display on a bathroom from glum to guest ready. countertop or in a shower niche. “A vase full of bam- “Hands-down, the easiest way to spruce up a bath- boo, pretty soaps in a rattan basket or a Lucite tray room with little or no expense is to de-clutter,” said filled with beautiful guest towels are just a few sug- Anne M. Walker of Anne Walker Design. “You’ll be gestions for fresh objects that will lend an air of tran- amazed how beautiful your bathroom looks if you quility to your bathroom.” clear away all of the items sitting on the countertop For guests who might cringe at the thought of and around the room.” shared guests towels, Martz suggests adding a tray To help with that effort, Walker suggests investing of disposable hand towels. He also encourages en- organizational items such as Lucite or bamboo trays gaging one’s sense of smell by, “adding some scented and drawer inserts so that personal items can be kept candles like those by Rigaud’s Cypres and Cythere.” out of sight. Another simple fix is to buy fresh new bath linens, For those with a budget and time to allow for it, says Walker. “No matter how hard you try, towels Walker suggests a fresh coat of paint or new wallpa- and shower curtains get dingy over time,” she said. per. “That can make a huge visual impact in a bath- “There are so many places to buy lovely linens, and room,” she said. “Since the space is so small, and it’s many of them are very low cost.” a room where you don’t spend long periods of time, With the right accessories, even the most modest you can have fun with interesting colors and pat- spaces can be made to feel like a spa, suggests Walker, terns.” recalling a bathroom in which she added added a Also think about painting just one wall as an ac- Turkish towel, striped shower curtain which became cent or the ceiling,” said Todd Martz of Home on transformative. “Even though the bathroom, itself, Cameron in Alexandria. “[Add a new] mirror, such is modest, the beautiful shower curtain makes it feel as a decorative or colorfully framed mirror or one like a resort,” she said. “By adding just a couple of that runs from floor to ceiling, for a fresh look.” colorful accessories on the countertop, it pulls the He also suggests updating a bathroom’s lighting whole room together. to make the space feel bright and airy. Installing new fixtures such as a shower head can Another practical tip that Walker offers is a good, quickly transform a bathroom from outdated to up- old-fashioned scrub-down. “Clean like you’ve never dated. “There are many types of shower heads on cleaned before, she said. “Use a surface cleaner with the market these days,” said “Some offer a variety of bleach, like Krud Kutter, which is my personal favor- water streams and different features, [and] most ite, a strong brush, and your elbow grease to remove manufacturers make it so that changing a shower dust, grime and dirt from tile grout, caulk, and cor- head is fairly simply.” 6 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Same Company, Same Employees, Same Great Value - Now Celebrating 20 Years! Select your 10% down Ozcan Sentenced nothing until the job TWO POOR TEACHERS products from nothing until the job isis completecomplete forfor thethe Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling our Mobile past 17 years Showroom To 40 Years Prison and Design Center From Page 2 auditory hallucinations,” said Fully Insured & grandchildren to respect educa- Stejskal. “He seemed severely psy- Class A Licensed tion and be honest. chotic. He exhibited behavior con- Since 1999 “She had so much heart and was sistent with a schizophrenia-affec- a great mother,” said Alcira. She tive disorder.” The doctor said also said she didn’t get to see her those types of behaviors are “dif- Free Estimates mother after the incident. “Her ficult to fake.” But since he only face had been disfigured, and they spent about 90 minutes total with 703-214-8384 Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com said it was better to remember her Ozcan, Stejskal called his diagno- the way she was when she was sis “provisional.” alive,” she said. Then, as other Sloane then asked Judge Mann relatives in the courtroom sobbed, to give Ozcan a lengthy prison Alcira showed the last family term. “We tried rehabilitation and photo of her mother before she restoration for [him] before, for died and said, “We miss her very two robberies, but failed. And it much, every day.” Afterward, de- had catastrophic consequences for fense attorney Charles Swedish the Ascencio and Chavez families. called county Deputy Public De- This case is about wanton and fender Andy Elders to the stand. senseless violence. It’s as vicious, Elders and public defender Brad brutal and callous as anything I’ve Lindsay were initially assigned seen.” Ozcan’s case. And when they first Swedish said Ozcan’s mental spoke with him, April 18, 2017, health began deteriorating while said Elders, “Everything about him working on his doctorate in biol- was bizarre and unusual.” ogy. “A mere eight months before “His version of what happened this tragic event, he was diag- at the gym didn’t comport with nosed, for the first time, as suffer- reality,” continued Elders. “He said ing from schizophrenia. But he he owned the gym and other took his medication, on and off, buildings that his father had left because of the side effects. And him, but [it] wasn’t true. He said while this happened, he was in the he’d recently taken a trip to throngs of a schizophrenic event Vicksburg, Miss., and found a book … that affected his judgment.” that controlled what all other Then, addressing the judge as books say. He said one million “honorable man,” Ozcan stood people in China had participated and apologized for his crime, say- in a fundraiser for his law-school ing, “I never meant to harm any- education. And he repeatedly one. Please forgive me and allow looked over his shoulder and me to go home.” asked us if we ‘heard that’ and if But Mann wasn’t buying it and we were alone.” sentenced him to 40 years behind bars. “You’ve been committing OZCAN’S COMPETENCY was crimes since 2003, and before, as then evaluated in Central State a juvenile,” he told Ozcan. “The Hospital and he was determined court believes this was not an ac- stable enough to stand trial. And cident. You planned and even re- in jail, Dr. William Stejskal, a fo- hearsed this and wanted to know rensic psychologist, spoke with what it was like to take someone’s him three times. He said Ozcan’s life. I’ve researched and looked statements weren’t linked together everywhere to find something and bounced from topic to topic. commendatory in you. But I find “He was unresponsive and there’s nothing redeeming about would trail off and go inward – you, and I have to protect the com- consistent with someone having munity.” Bulletin Board

From Page 5 mind when we think of Thanksgiving and Christmas physically disadvantaged children. dinner. For many families and To find a local office, go to individuals, enjoying a special www.weichert.com/offices/. holiday meal when finances are Winter Outerwear Donations. tight is just not possible. Visit Through Dec. 14 at American www.koinoniacares.org/holiday- Legion Post 176, 6520 Amherst baskets.html for suggestions and Ave., Springfield. The Post is to sign up to donate a basket. accepting new hats, gloves, scarfs and coats for ECHO (Ecumenical VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED. Community Helping Others). The Shepherd’s Center of Holiday Basket Donation. Fairfax-Burke needs volunteer Christmas basket donations by drivers for trips to medical Dec. 17. Preparing a special appointments (Monday - Friday) holiday meal and joining one’s and companion shopping family around the table to give thanks are visions that come to See Bulletin, Page 11 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 ❖ 7 Holiday Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcements exhibiting in our galleries. at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- Experience performances of dance, endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. cabaret, comedy, big band, jazz, and FRIDAY/DEC. 21 Photos/artwork encouraged. theater. Indulge in classes in the art Moscow Ballet’s Nutcracker. 4 and of mixology or cuisines from around 8 p.m. at GMU Center for the Arts the globe. Enjoy art exhibitions in Concert Hall, 4373 Mason Pond ONGOING nine galleries of the region’s finest Drive, Fairfax. Experience Moscow Red Cross Fundraiser. Through sculpture, painting, glass, ceramics, Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Saturday, Dec. 15 at Crafthouse, and fiber art works. Visit during their Dove of Peace Tour, 11861 Palace Way, Fairfax. All three www.workhousearts.org/. spreading goodwill in over 100 cities Crafthouse locations in Northern Senior Line Dancing. Mondays, 1 across North America during the Virginia are donating 10 percent of p.m.; Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m. at Little holiday season. $28 and up. Go to all bottled beer purchases to the RIver Glen Senior Center, 4001 www.nutcracker.com for tickets. American Red Cross – California Barker Court, Fairfax. Line Dancing is Family Movie Night: “The Wildfires Fund to assist those a gentle, social form of aerobic Incredibles.” Lights go down at 7 affected by the wildfires in activity. Studies have shown it aids in p.m. at Sherwood Community California. Call 703-825-1811 or visit warding off Alzheimer’s disease. No Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, www.crafthouseusa.com. previous experience needed. Cost: $5 Fairfax. Enjoy a free, family friendly Pop-Up Art show. Through Dec. 16 at per 8-week session. Email (movies are PG) movie night. Gallery 57, 11899 Grand Commons [email protected] or call 703- Participants may bring their own Ave., Fairfax. Emerging Artists 524-3739. snacks. An adult must accompany Initiative and the Peterson Fairfax Pets on Wheels New anyone under the age of 14. Companies are partnering to bring an Volunteer Orientation. An Britepaths will accept donations of artistic and creative facet to the orientation for new volunteers non-perishable food until 9 p.m. Call Fairfax community. A new pop-up art interested in visiting residents of 703-385-7858. gallery at Fairfax Corner Center will nursing homes and assisted living facilities with their approved pets be exhibiting paintings and sculptors WEDNESDAY/DEC. 26 by four resident artists in the vacant through the Fairfax Pets On Wheels Toy Drive retail space. Free. Email program is held the first Wednesday Members of the community are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys at the Holiday Concert. 6-7:30 at The John [email protected] or visit of every month starting at 7:30 p.m. company’s sales offices. The toys will be delivered throughout the holidays in con- F. Kennedy Center for the Performing eaiinc.org. Visit www.fpow.org for each month’s junction with local charities that assist financially and physically disadvantaged Arts, 2700 F St. NW, Washington, location. Prior to attending, please D.C. Featuring local Encore Chorale Glass National 2018. Through Jan. children. Through Friday, Dec. 14 at local Weichert, Realtors offices. To find a lo- complete the online application groups from Alexandria, Arlington, 13 at The Workhouse Arts Center, cal office, go to www.weichert.com/offices/. Vulcan Gallery, W-16, 9518 found at www.fpow.org/volunteer. Fairfax, and Reston. Encore Workhouse Way, Lorton. The www.fpow.org, 703-324-5424 or Creativity for Older Adults, the [email protected]. Friday. Fairfax Volunteer Fire at Pet Supplies Plus, 11054 Lee nation’s largest choral program for Workhouse Arts Center presents its Department, 4081 University Drive, Highway, Fairfax. Find a new forever 3rd Annual Glass National exhibition. Carolina Shag. Wednesdays, 6:30-10 singers 55+, will present the p.m. at Arlington/Fairfax Elks Lodge, Fairfax. Free coffee, entertaining animal friend with the help of the combined talents of more than 250 Glass National is a juried exhibition callers, $1,000 jackpot (with breaks City of Fairfax Animal Control and which promotes and displays the 8421 Arlington Blvd., Fairfax. Free Encore Chorales and Encore ROCKS lessons at 7:30 p.m. No partners for smoking friends). Animal Shelter. Visit singers in concert. Free, the public is breadth of contemporary glass www.fairfaxvd.com. 703-273-3638. www.fairfaxva.gov/government/ artwork being created throughout the needed. Dinner menu. $8. Under 21 invited and no tickets are required. free. nvshag.org. English Conversation Groups police/programs/animal-control/ Call 301-261-5747 or visit USA and Canada by highlighting both weekly at George Mason, Burke adopt-a-pet. functional and sculptural works. This FUN-Exercise Thursdays, noon-12:50 www.encorecreativity.org. p.m. at Grace Presbyterian Church Centre, and Lorton Libraries Practice year’s juror is artist and educator and improve your English. Day and Carmen Lozar, director of the Family Room, 7434 Bath St., SUNDAY/DEC. 16 Springfield. Inova certified exercise start times vary. Visit: THURSDAY-SATURDAY/DEC. 27-29 Merwin and Wakeley Galleries at va.evanced.info/fairfaxcounty/lib/ Football Viewing Party. 12:30-4 Illinois Wesleyan University. Visit instructor leads a moderate level The Nutcracker. 2 and 7 p.m. at exercise class with music and current eventcalendar.asp p.m. at Patriot Harley-Davidson, Northern Virginia Community www.workhousearts.org/event/glass- Funday Monday 10:30 a.m., every 9739 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax. Patriot national-2018. events conversation. Muscle, Balance, College Annandale Campus in the Strength Training using stretch bands Monday at Old Town Hall, 3999 Harley-Davidson will host a Redskins Ernst Community Cultural Center Founding Artists Exhibition. University Drive, Fairfax. There will viewing party with former Redskin Through Feb. 3 at The Workhouse and weights both standing and Theater. Virginia Ballet Company and seated exercises. Instructor donation be music, movement, storytelling, and Hall of Famer, Darrell Green. School will present its 68th season of Arts Center, Vulcan Muse Gallery, performances, crafts, and more. It is Green will be available for pictures 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. is $5. [email protected] or 703- the classic Nutcracker ballet. $30 for 499-6133. open to children of all ages, however throughout the event and will take adults; $20 for children, students and Workhouse Arts Center presents a especially for those who haven’t yet part in a half-time Q&A session. group exhibition highlighting Studio Exercise Program Mondays and seniors at www.vaballet.org. A Fridays at 9:30 a.m. year-round at started school. Programs are free and Photos that can be autographed will limited number of general admission and Arches artists that have been a open to the public, donations are be available in exchange for a new, part of the organization for its 10- Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 tickets is available for the Working Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. The gratefully appreciated. There is unused, unwrapped toy donation for Stage Rehearsal on Dec. 26 at 6:30 year span. In honor of their ample free parking in the downtown the Sheehy Toys for Tots toy drive. dedication and support, the exercises are for strength, balance p.m. ($10) at www.vaballet.org. The and maintaining limberness. Contact area, and stroller access at the rear of These photos are the only items tickets for the Working Stage exhibition will survey their works in Old Town Hall on Main St. 703-385- Green will autograph. Free and open various mediums including painting, SCFB office at 703-426-2824 for Rehearsal must be purchased in more information. 7858 www.fairfaxva.gov/culturalarts. to the public. Visit advance. sculpture, fiber, glass, precious www.patriothd.com or call 703-352- metals, and mixed media. Visit Cafe Ivrit (Hebrew Cafe). Wednesdays. 8:15-9:15 a.m. Jewish 5400. www.workhousearts.org. FRIDAY-SUNDAY/DEC. 14-16 BHS General Meeting. 3:30-5 p.m. at SUNDAY/JAN. 6 Farmers Market. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 Community Center of Northern Virginia, 8900 Little River Turnpike, “An Invitation to Christmas.” Pohick Regional Library, 6540 Winter Make ‘n Take. 1-4 p.m. at the p.m. at Springfield Town Center, Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, noon, 4 Sydenstricker Road, Burke. Cindy 6699 Spring Mall Drive, Springfield. Fairfax. Shalom (hello) Did you Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, always want to converse in Hebrew? and 7:30 pm.; Sunday, noon and 4 Bennett shares anecdotes from her 11200 Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Visit www.facebook.com/ p.m. at Richard Ernst Theater, NOVA new book Wicked Fairfax County, SpringfieldFoodworks/. Join Na’ama each week for Station. The Fairfax Station Railroad conversational Hebrew. You will campus, 8333 Little River Turnpike, recounting events like the typhoid Museum will celebrate the New Year Second Saturdays. 6-9 p.m. at the Annandale. The dancers of Encore epidemic at Camp Alger, a 1918 Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 learn and practice Hebrew in a fun with a Make ‘n Take craft event. Ages and interactive way while learning Theatrical Arts Project are getting murder in Burke, and, of course, the 16 and older, $4; 5-15, $2; 4 and Workhouse Road, Lorton. The ready for their holiday extravaganza, Bunnyman. Free. Email Second Saturday Art Walk is the more about Israel. Free, however we under, free. Visit www.fairfax- ask that you try to attend regularly. “An Invitation to Christmas.” The [email protected] or visit station.org or call 703-425-9225. perfect time to meet nearly 85 elves at the North Pole are super- www.burkehistoricalsociety.org. Resident and Associate Artists, RSVP [email protected]. Smoke Free Bingo. 7 p.m. Every busy and need extra help, so they Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker. 4 creating art in the studios or send out invitations for children p.m. at GMU Center for the Arts SATURDAY/JAN. 12 picked by Santa to attend Elf- Concert Hall. Experience this timeless Second Saturdays. 6-9 p.m. at the Training School. However, one of the holiday classic with the Fairfax Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 new recruits is a full-grown man, and Symphony Orchestra and the Fairfax Workhouse Road, Lorton. The his classmates wonder why he’s Ballet. Enjoy a winter wonderland of Second Saturday Art Walk is the there. He does, too, since he thought dancing snowflakes, sugar plum perfect time to meet nearly 85 Wicked he was going on a job interview. $19- fairies and epic battles between Resident and Associate Artists, $26 via www.encoretap.org or 703- heroic toy soldiers and mischievous creating art in the studios or Fairfax 222-5511. mice. There will not be a pre-concert exhibiting in our galleries. discussion for this matinee Experience performances of dance, performance. $49-$89. Visit County SATURDAY/DEC. 15 cabaret, comedy, big band, jazz, and www.fairfaxsymphony.org/ theater. Enjoy art exhibitions in nine Cindy Bennett shares anecdotes from Jazz Brunch and Vendor Expo. nutcracker-1-1/ fore more. galleries of the region’s finest her new book Wicked Fairfax County, Vendor Expo, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Jazz sculpture, painting, glass, ceramics, Brunch, noon at Thomas Jefferson recounting events like the typhoid epi- SATURDAY/DEC. 18 and fiber art works. Visit demic at Camp Alger, a 1918 murder in High School for Science and www.workhousearts.org/. Burke, and, of course, the Technology, 6560 Braddock Road, Santa’s Critters and Craft. 10 a.m.- Bunnyman.Sunday, Dec. 16, 3:30-5 Alexandria. Fairfax County NAACP noon at Hidden Pond Nature Center, p.m. at Pohick Regional Library, 6540 offers a Jazz Brunch and Business 8511 Greeley Blvd., Springfield. SUNDAY/JAN. 13 Sydenstricker Road, Burke. Free. Email and Vendor Expo, featuring more Come one, come all to meet Santa Game Day/Scavenger Hunt. 1-4 than 40 vendors. Shop for holiday and his merry band of critters. Bring [email protected] or visit p.m. at the Fairfax Station Railroad gifts and stay to enjoy the jazz a camera to take pictures with Jolly Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station www.burkehistoricalsociety.org for brunch celebration. Proceeds benefit Saint Nick, his elves and their animal more. Road, Fairfax Station. Ages 16 and scholarships and advocacy efforts. friends. Ages 2-12. $10. Call 703- older, $4; 5-15, $2; 4 and under, Jazz Brunch, $65; expo admission is 451-9588 or visit free. Visit www.fairfax-station.org or free. Visit www.fairfaxnaacp.org/. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ call 703-425-9225. Pet Adoption Event. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. hidden-pond. 8 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Holiday Fun

Photos By Bonnie Hobbs/The Connection

COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP From left, the Rowland sisters, Lila, 7, and Charlotte, 5, Christmas At are ready to eat the s’mores they made at Fairfax’s Festival of Lights and Carols. Prince of Peace “loving people to life” Lutheran Church •Christmas Eve Service at 7:30 PM b •New Year’s Eve Gathering at 6 PM ࠮*VUJLY[!+LJWT b Fairfax’s Festival Worship Gathering – Sunday 8:45 & 11 AM ࠮*OYPZ[THZ,]L! Sunday School 10:10 AM Sun. Evening – Realtime Worship & Youth 6 PM WT-HTPSPLZ^P[O`V\UNJOPSKYLU Family Night – Wednesday 7:15 PM WT*VU[LTWVYHY`*HUKSLSPNO[ To AdvertiseYour Home Life Groups, College/Young Adult !WT;YHKP[PVUHS*HUKSLSPNO[ Of Lights and Carols Ministries, and Living Free Support Groups Visit our Website: www.jccag.org ࠮*OYPZ[THZ+H`HT Community of Worship Fairfax’s City’s annual Festival of Lights and Carols was Saturday, 4650 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax 8304 Old Keene Mill Rd. 22152 Call 703-778-9418 Dec. 1. Bill Frasnelli, PASTOR 703-383-1170 www.poplc.org 703-451-5855

Dee Hammell helps son Isaac, 4, and daughter Josephine, 7, toast marshmallows for s’mores.

Alfred Reynolds, 4, poses with Santa Claus before telling him what he wants for Christmas. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 ❖ 9 News

From left: Steven Davis, President and CEO, DGSC Group; Rocky Mitchell, Execu- tive Vice President, Global Fixed Assets, PenFed Credit Union; Gerald L. Gordon, Ph.D. President and CEO, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority; Darrell Green, Associate Athletic Director, George Mason Athletics. Photo contributed PenFed Credit Union Donates $50,000 Challenge Grant to GMU Scholarship Fund On Dec. 5, PenFed Credit Union made a challenge PenFed’s President and CEO, James Schenck, and our grant of $50,000 to start the Dr. Gerald Gordon Schol- entire Executive Team feel this challenge grant is a arship Fund at George Mason University. The dona- most appropriate way to celebrate Jerry’s legacy.” tion was presented by Rocky Mitchell, PenFed Ex- Dr. Gordon taught at George Mason University, ecutive Vice President of Global Fixed Assets, during Catholic University, the University of Maryland, and a celebration hosted by the Fairfax County Economic Virginia Commonwealth University. In the last de- Development Authority (FCEDA) Commission in cade Dr. Gordon has chaired the boards of the Fairfax honor, of Dr. Gerald Gordon’s 35 years of service to Symphony, the Arts Council of Fairfax County, the Fairfax County. Foundation for Fairfax County Public Schools and The evening event honored Dr. Gordon who is re- the George Mason University Honors College. He also tiring after serving as president and CEO of the has served on the board of the International Eco- FCEDA in Fairfax County. PenFed’s Mitchell is a mem- nomic Development Council and is a Fellow Mem- ber of the FCEDA Commission, the Authority’s gov- ber and Honorary Life Member of the organization. erning body, and served with Dr. Gordon for the past The event was held at the Tower Club, Tysons Cor- three years. ner in Tysons, Virginia. Attendees included many “Jerry is an asset to Fairfax County and indeed all from the Fairfax County business community and of Virginia,” said Mitchell. “He was instrumental in Fairfax County government. PenFed’s acquisition of our new Tysons headquar- To learn more about PenFed Credit Union, visit ters and has supported many of our key initiatives. PenFed.org

Sharon Bulova - second from right - with (from left): Del. Mark Keam (D- 35), State Sen. Janet Howell (D-32), Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville), U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11), Del. Ken Plum (D- 36) and Supervisor Catherine Hudgins (D- Hunter Mill). Bulova From Page 3 ing Day my son David arrived for dinner equipped with a large flip chart and colored stickies for voting. prove pivotal. Despite all my doubts and misgiv- He titled the Chart “Family Decision Making Matrix” ings, I did, indeed run for office, and went on to and separated it into “Pros” and “Cons.” It was a fun, serve as Annandale - later renamed Braddock - Dis- light-hearted after dinner activity. Many of the items trict Supervisor for the next twenty years. When then- listed on the “Pro” side of the chart were some of the Chairman Gerry Connolly was elected to Congress reasons that had already persuaded me to not seek in 2008, I ran for his open seat in a special election another four-year term. More time with family and on February 3, 2009. This coming February will mark grandchildren, time for travel, to entertain, to smell ten years since I have served as Chairman of the the roses. Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. It has been an honor to serve the Fairfax County Local government is an awesome place to be. It’s community on the Board of Supervisors. During these the level of government closest to the people you rep- past thirty years, I have been privileged to work resent. It’s the place where you can truly make a tan- alongside dedicated elected officials at every level gible difference, touch lives, and engage with the com- of government, with talented, caring county staff and munity in a personal, positive way. Deciding when to a county full of enthusiastic community volunteers. stop is just as hard as making the decision to start While I will not be running for re-election in 2019 I down the road of elective office. For me, however, sure do have a lot to look back on with satisfaction. that time has come. My term does not end until the end of next year. When questioned by Tony Olivo of the Washington Between now and then there is still much to do and Post about my plans for running, I told him I was go- to contribute. I look forward to working with you ing to use the Thanksgiving holiday to think about it, during these months ahead and thank you for your and to talk to my family and friends. On Thanksgiv- engagement and participation in your community. 10 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin Still From Page 7 (Tuesday, Friday) within the Fairfax-Burke area and Scared to … in the South County area (west of Route 1, Alexandria). Office volunteers are also needed By KENNETH B. LOURIE to work in the SCFB (Olley Glen) office to schedule rides. Bilingual volunteers (English and As a follow up to last week’s column: “Scared Spanish) are needed as drivers and office to …,” let me provide a bit more context for the volunteers. Email Shavaun Wall at fear and anxiety I wrote about; as well as some [email protected] or call 703-323-4788. history for you readers to appreciate the emotional challenges some of us cancer patients experience. WEBINAR It all began with the initial Team Lourie meet- Online Salary Negotiation Workshop. AAUW ing on Feb. 27, 2009 when we met my oncologist (American Association of University Women) MVY[OLÄYZ[[PTL Work Smart is free online for anyone looking to learn how to negotiate a salary increase or After exchanging pleasantries, such as they promotion. Why is negotiation so important? could be, I was examined by my oncologist in an AAUW’s research on the gender pay gap shows adjacent room. After he completed his exam, we that, one year out of college, women are already HSSYLHZZLTISLKPUOPZVMÄJL^OLYLOLYL]PL^LK paid significantly less than men. Visit the results of my most recent medical history salary.aauw.org. KH[PUNIHJR[V1HU^OLU0ÄYZ[ZOV^LK\W THURSDAY/DEC. 13 at the Emergency Room complaining of shortness of breath. “The Roaring Twenties.” 5:30 p.m. at Glory Days in Barcroft Plaza, 6341 Columbia Pike, Subsequently, there were two sets of X-Rays, Falls Church. Join the Springfield-Annandale one CT scan, one P.E.T. scan and then a surgical branch of the American Association of University IPVWZ`[VJVUÄYT[OLWYL]PV\ZÄUKPUNZ0[^HZ Women for Ben Gold’s program on “The Roaring nearly eight weeks to the day that I learned my di- Twenties.” The meeting includes a dinner for agnosis: non-small cell lung cancer, stage IV. And $27.00. Reservations must be received by so my oncologist began to talk. I’m semi-quoting, Monday, Dec. 10. Contact but clearly remembering the substance: [email protected] or call 703-560-1760. I can treat you, but I can’t cure you. Your prog- Learn about Citizenship. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Library, 7415 Arlington Blvd., nosis is 13 months to two years. The percentage of Falls Church. Learn about the process of patients who live beyond two years is 2 percent. becoming a U.S. citizen at this free information Could you be the one who lives beyond two session. After the presentation a USCIS years? Absolutely. This is extremely serious. You representative will answer your questions. U.S. should begin chemotherapy as soon as possible. Sen. Mark R. Warner will make opening Next week if possible. remarks. Free. Email [email protected], Then our questions began – after we gathered call 703-573-1060 or visit our composure that is. I mean, hearing these librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/ words directed at you is as surreal as it gets, and 4476399 for more. Blue Christmas Service. 7 p.m. at King of Kings with limited knowledge on the subject and the Lutheran Church, 4025 Kings Way, Fairfax. JPYJ\TZ[HUJLZ^LOHKKPMÄJ\S[`Z[HY[PUNHJVU- During the holidays people can sometimes feel versation. at odds with this being “the most wonderful This is as much as I remember hearing that day. time of the year.” Perhaps they are grieving the Could there have been more? I’m sure. Unfortu- loss of a loved one or struggling with illness or nately, we were ill-prepared for the occasion. have experienced the loss of a job. This quiet Though there were three of us: my wife, Dina, service of prayer, meditative music, candle my brother, Richard, and myself – collectively, lighting and Holy Communion is for any who need it. Visit www.kofk.org or call 703-378- what went in all of our ears went out in different 7272. directions. What was said, what was heard, what was MONDAY/DEC. 24 understood, what was remembered, was all a Christmas Eve Services. At Historic Pohick jumble. No one thought to take notes or bring in Episcopal Church, 9301 Richmond Highway, a recording device, two suggestions which have Lorton. Evening services begin at 6 p.m. with a been subsequently made and that I now pass on Family Holy Eucharist with Children’s Choirs. At to you. 10:30 p.m. is a Christmas Carol presentation with choir and brass ensemble, followed by the My oncologist answered our questions about 11 p.m. Festival Holy Eucharist. Visit surgery, radiation, treatment, drugs, side effects, www.pohick.org or call 703-339-6572. ZJOLK\SLL[JHSSVM^OPJO^HZKPMÄJ\S[[VHIZVYI Christmas Eve Service. 8-9 p.m. at Harvester He then attempted to describe what my life Presbyterian Church, 7800 Rolling Road, would be like going forward, offering no guaran- Springfield. Join this traditional candlelight tees of anything particularly hopeful, which now Christmas Eve service. Free. Call 703-455-7800 explains the reasons for these two columns: death or visit www.harvesterpca.org. and progression from dying/symptoms getting worse. He used a staircase as an example. TUESDAY/DEC. 25 My health would steadily decline, as if walking Christmas Day Service. 10 a.m. at Historic KV^UHÅPNO[VMZ[HPYZ(ZT`OLHS[OKL[LYPVYH[LK Pohick Episcopal Church, 9301 Richmond symptoms manifested (down a couple of steps), he Highway, Lorton. Christmas Day Holy Eucharist. could stabilize me there by trying new treatment. Visit www.pohick.org or call 703-339-6572. But he could never bring my health back to its WEDNESDAY/JAN. 9 previous place. Then after a while the new treat- ment would become unsuccessful (down a few Grant Application Deadline. More than 50 artists have been recognized by ARTSFAIRFAX more steps), and again, he could stabilize me but with an Artist Grant over the past decade. Artist he couldn’t bring me back. And on and on until … Grants recognize outstanding achievement for . I think I can remember another visual he offered: work that has already been completed, the playing with a yo-yo as I descended the stairs; artist’s commitment to an artistic discipline, down, down, down. their professional activity in Fairfax County and Amazingly, this has not happened to me de- their contributions to the quality of life in ZWP[LH^LLR»ZSVUNOVZWP[HSPaH[PVUÄ]LWS\Z`LHYZ Fairfax County. Learn more at ago. ARTSFAIRFAX.org. HOWEVER, per my understanding of my THURSDAY/JAN. 10 condition (I wasn’t diagnosed as “terminal” for Adventures in Learning Open House. 10 nothing), I anticipate stepping down at some a.m.-noon at Unitarian Universalist point. And any time – every time – I experience Congregation of Fairfax, Program Building, 2709 symptoms uncharacteristic of my semi-normal ex- Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. Adventures in istence, I ALWAYS wonder if this is the beginning Learning winter 2019 classes begin Thursday of my end. Jan. 17 and run through March 14. Classes are And as much as I want to stay one step ahead, held at UUCF/Oakton. Students may attend one it’s hard for me (practically impossible) to not or all classes for one $45 fee and are encouraged to create their own schedule – attend classes all think that when new symptoms occur, cancer is day or attend only one class. Students are stepping up its attack. welcome to sample one class for free. For details call 703-281-0538 or visit www.scov.org/ail- Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for open-house for an application and class The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. schedule. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 ❖ 11 SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR YOUR TOYOTA

WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’S PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE

ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA

12 ❖ Fairfax Connection ❖ December 13-19, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com