Betsy Garnes, Lake Ridge, visiting the Community Market at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton for Community lunch and shopping with gardening friends, ex- amines oils and gems by Market Opens Susan & Staci, of “Gems 4 U.” Garnes is using the outing opportunity to per- form another regular act In Lorton of kindness in memory of News, Page 7 her father.
HomeLifeStyle Page 8 Classifieds, Page 10 Opinion, Page 4 v Classifieds,
County Board Recognizes ‘2021 Community Champions’
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Submit civic/community announcements at Connec- tionNewspapers.com/Calen- dar. Photos and artwork wel- come. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before the event.
EVERY SATURDAY Community Market Opens. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton. Fea- turing over 20 vendors, new and returning.
SATURDAY/APRIL 24 Academy Day. 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Sen. Mark Warner is hosting his annual Academy Day. The event will offer a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admis- sion processes. Attendees will have an opportunity to hear from officials from the five federal service acade- mies, as well as representa- tives from the Department of Defense Medical Exam- ination Review Board, the University of Virginia ROTC programs, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, the Virginia Military Institute, and the Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership at Mary Baldwin University. Visit www.warner.senate. gov. You may email acade- [email protected]. gov with questions.
2 v Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News
County Board Recognizes Volunteer Fairfax ‘2021 Community Champions’ 2021 Community Champions Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay (D-At-Large) selected as his Citizen leaders step up to nerable dealing with food insecuri- champion Diane Watson ty to social injustice. Supervisor James Walkinshaw (D-Braddock) picked Rebecca “Betsy” Clev- support the vulnerable. Every year, as a part of the enger Fairfax County Volunteer Service Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) selected Fanny Salazar-Laske By Mercia Hobson awards, supervisors have the honor and Supervisor Walter Alcorn (D-Hunter Mill) chose Lydia Russo The Connection challenge of selecting one outstanding vol- Supervisor Daniel Storck (D-Mount Vernon) picked Reverend, Dr. Brian unteer from their district to receive their Brown he Fairfax County Board of Super- Community Champion Award. During the Supervisor Penelope Gross (D-Mason) selected Bob Kahane visors recognized its ten “Com- meeting, each board member provided brief Supervisor Daniel Storck (D-Mount Vernon) chose Rev., Dr. Brian Brown munity Champions” during the comments on his or her district, “Communi- Supervisor Dalia Palchik (D-Providence) chose Judith Schneider-Fletcher TBoard’s April 13 meeting. The ty Champion 2021.” Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield) picked Stacey Brumbaugh County’s volunteer leaders supported many Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Supervisor Kathy Smith (D-Sully) selected Dr. Reverend Brenda McBorrough causes, giving their time and talents to im- Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards will Supervisor Rodney Lusk (D-Lee) chose Michelle Menapace proving the quality of life for those most vul- be live-streamed on YouTube Tuesday, April 20.
Diane Watson, Community Champion 2021, At Large- Lydia Russo, Community Champion 2021, Hunter Mill “As a passionate advocate for issues relating to the health, District - Serving as a volunteer with Vienna Volunteer well-being, and enrichment of older adults, our at-large Fire Department since 2006, she assists with fundraising champion has been an active volunteer with the Fairfax outreach and marketing. In addition, she turned what was County Department of Family Services Volunteer Solutions, supposed to be a purely social endeavor, a Facebook group the Northern Virginia Aging Network, and the Fairfax called Vienna VA Foodies, into a vehicle for raising mon- County Long Term Coordinating Council, working to enrich ey, awareness, and community action for food-insecure the lives of older adults and support challenges unique to families, for frontline workers also, first responders, and this community. She serves her active adult community as a more. Her efforts weren’t limited to Vienna either. When the block captain and care team leader, where neighbors work Black Lives Matter Movement grew over the summer, Vienna together to provide services so that all can age in place safe- Foodies fundraised to help the Anacostia area of D.C. In one ly in their home. She has also helped draft policies tackling day, the group raised $20,000 to support Martha’s Table, a social isolation for older residents in Fairfax County and nonprofit helping children, families, and the community.” - throughout Virginia. An outstanding advocate, facilitator, Supervisor Walter Alcorn (D-Hunter Mill) and collaborator, congratulations to Diane Watson, our At- large Community Champion.”- Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay (D At-Large) Michelle Menapace, Community Champion 2021, Lee District- “This volunteer worked on several Fairfax County Rebecca “Betsy” Clevenger, Community Champion Boards, Authorities and Commissions including the Com- 2021, Braddock District - “For more than a decade, our munity Action Advisory Board and Human Services Council, next volunteer has been a champion and leader of her the Food Access and Literacy Workgroup. Our Community church’s charitable operations in Annandale. Prior to March Champion has spent a good deal of her time in 2020 devot- 2020, she helped serve an average of 65 families week- ed to numerous pandemic efforts. She focused on collect- ly. Once the pandemic took effect, the need for food and ing and delivering farmers market produce for donation necessities skyrocketed, and she rose to the occasion. She organizations, addressing food insecurity, and selling face oversees the provision of critical food requirements, such as masks for others. When she delivered masks and was asked 220 grocery bags prepared weekly, emergency food boxes, how they could compensate her for her efforts, she asked as well as prepared meals. She’s created an environment that folks simply pay it forward by providing food donations where everyone can get help, no questions asked. Her tire- to nonprofits, such as So Others Might Eat, World Central less efforts and organizational prowess have ensured that Kitchen, Food for Others, and more. Her efforts resulted in thousands of our neighbors have had food to eat and warm more than 250 masks donated and countless food dona- clothes to wear. Congratulations, Betsy Clevenger.”- Supervi- tions.” - Supervisor Rodney Lusk (D-Lee) sor James Walkinshaw (D-Braddock)
Bob Kahane, Community Champion 2021, Mason Fanny Salazar-Laske, Community District- “This volunteer is well known in his hometown. Champion 2021, Dranesville - “This year’s He has served as president of the Rotary Club three times champion was instrumental in establishing in the past and will take up that position again in July. He WIN, Women-inspired Neighborhood, a has also served as chair for Taste of Annandale, the largest community-wide effort in conjunction with community event in the Mason District, for four years. His Fairfax County Public Schools, county gov- jobs as chair are numerous, including recruiting sponsor- ernment, and nonprofits to bring women ships, organizing volunteers, and attending to a myriad of in need to the forefront of assistance. The other details. The Taste attracts more than 6,000 community success of a group over its six-year histo- members for free entertainment, food, and more. Proceeds ry is predominantly due to her efforts in from this event are used to support youth activities in his creating a safe space for neighbors, largely town and in his district. Congratulations Bob Kahane, Mason people of color, immigrants, (and) for those District Community Champion,” read on behalf of Supervi- struggling financially can come together to sor Penny Gross (D-Mason District) by Board of Supervisors talk about the challenges they face, build Chairman Jeff McKay (D At-Large) social networks, and find ways to support each other. During the pandemic, she has helped those in need by distributing food at food banks, offering interpreting skills, for reaching out to families adversely affected by the pandemic.”- Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) See Community Champions Page 11
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 v 3 Opinion
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@BurkeConnection Earth Day An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Published by – Then and Local Media Connection LLC 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Now Free digital edition delivered to your email box. Go to By Paul Gilbert connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe NOVA Parks Executive Director NEWS DEPARTMENT: [email protected] ifty-one years ago, in 1970, the first Earth Day took place on April 22. The Kemal Kurspahic issues of that time were quite different Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 Fthan what we face today. In 1970 our New parkland at Pohick Bay. Photo courtesy of NOVA Parks [email protected] nation was awash in pollution. In 1969 the Bonnie Hobbs Cuyahoga River in Ohio caught fire due to so some time. Since 2007 NOVA Parks has tracked Community Reporter, 703-778-9415 much oil and chemicals on the surface. The every gallon of gas and kilowatt of electricity [email protected] same year a large oil rig spill off the coast of consumed and converted it to carbon. Many in-
California happened. A new report at the time vestments have been made to improve energy Mercia Hobson Community Reporter documented the endangered Bald Eagle and efficiency. In 2018 NOVA Parks completed its [email protected] the impact of DDT pesticide on the eagle and second new building with a LEED (Leadership other species. American cities were choked with in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold cer- Mike Salmon high levels of lead smog from cars and trucks, tification. The new Jean R. Packard Building Contributing Writer [email protected] and litter was everywhere. features recycled building materials, cutting Today, we have addressed many of these is- edge stormwater, HVAC, and lighting, and even Ken Moore sues, and new ones face us. The EPA was estab- has solar panels on the roof. Contributing Writer lished in 1969, and pollution has decreased dra- But the most significant contribution the [email protected] matically. DDT was banned, and species like the regional park system has made to address the ADVERTISING: Bald Eagle have recovered. Lead was removed causes of global warming is the expansion of For advertising information from gasoline, and our air is much cleaner, and protected forested parkland. As the region’s litter is not the problem it was decades ago. All original conservation organization, by 1970, [email protected] of this has meant better health for people and NOVA Parks had already assembled 3,600 acres 703-778-9431 nature. So, let’s take a moment and appreciate of parkland. With new parkland acquisitions Debbie Funk almost every year, the Regional Park system is the great work that has been accomplished! Display Advertising/National Sales Today, while our rivers are not on fire, and currently up to 12,200 acres, including 37 acres 703-778-9444 we breathe and eat fewer toxins, our challenges of waterfront land in Fairfax County added over Students in ‘70s doing water quality [email protected] are still great. Global warming is the central en- just the last year and 600 acres of managed testing: the first Earth Day took place on David Griffin vironmental issue of our generation. The global parkland added in Loudoun County in 2018. April 22, 1970. Marketing Assistant average temperature in March 2020 was over Over 85 percent of the Regional park system 703-778-9431 2 degrees higher than the average for the 20th is in a natural, mostly forested condition. This moving forward is to address the carbon in our [email protected] Century, and this trend is growing. The results level of forested land absorbs 15,000 tons of atmosphere that is driving global warming. We Classified & Employment are more extreme storms, wildfires, hurricanes, carbon from our air per year! Forests are the must all look for ways to use fewer fossil fuels, Advertising and more. And the cause is too much carbon in air filters of our region, absorbing carbon and and at the same time, recognize that parkland 703-778-9431 the atmosphere. The solution has two sides: re- releasing fresh oxygen. is more than just a fun place to visit, but is ac- ducing the use of fossil fuels and the expansion Environmental leaders fifty years ago did a tually vitally important to absorbing the carbon Editor & Publisher of natural areas that absorb carbon. remarkable job of cleaning up pollution and in our air. The progress of yesterday gives hope Mary Kimm [email protected] At NOVA Parks, we have been doing what we toxins in our environment, making the world that the challenges of today can be addressed @MaryKimm can to address both sides of the carbon issue for a healthier place to be today. Our collective job with focused effort. Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon 703-549-0004 [email protected]
Letters to the Editor Managing Editor Kemal Kurspahic Let Us Know Your View Art/Design: Connection Newspapers welcomes Spiritual, Societal and Medical Benefits of Fasting Laurence Foong, John Heinly, views on any public issue. Ali Khaligh To the Editor: temper and focus on spiritual im- Ramadan teaches us to care Letters must be signed. Include home address Production Manager: It is a month of Ramadan provement. for the weaker sections of our and home and business numbers; Geovani Flores and all healthy Muslims will be While fasting, one is also con- society and learn to sacrifice we will only print your name and town name. fasting from dawn to Sunset. fronted with the reality that there for others to create a beautiful Letters are routinely edited for length, libel, grammar, CIRCULATION good taste, civility and factual errors. Muslims fast because the bene- are people in the world who can- society. Circulation Manager: Send letters fits of fasting range from spiri- not afford their basic needs such as With self-control, fasting also Ann Oliver Online www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/letter [email protected] tual, to societal, to medical. food, drink, and shelter. As a result discourages over-eating and By email: [email protected] As the nature of man is weak, we try to become thankful for what once a year diet-control can be By mail to: Letters to the Editor The Connection we naturally want to fulfill our we have and consequently become a great way to detoxify our di- 1606 King St., Alexandria VA 22314 desires beyond limit. During more charitable. The Prophet Mu- gestive systems. You can comment on our this spiritual exercise, we learn hammad (peace and blessings be With the spiritual, societal, Facebook page or find us on Twitter self control and it helps us im- upon him) stated, “Do your duty to and medical benefits in mind, www.facebook.com/connectionnewspapers prove in our morals. In addi- God as well as the creation of God why not give it a try? https://twitter.com/alexgazette tion to controlling the appetite, equitably.” Thus, besides our rela- https://twitter.com/mtvernongazette Muslims are specifically encour- tionship with God, it is important to Aasma Ahmad https://twitter.com/followfairfax aged to control their speech and be good towards our fellow humans. Lorton
4 v Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News ‘Good Way to Recognize His Contributions to the City’
Trail named after former actively sought the creation will someday be the site of the John Mason of a City trail network. Ma- Trail. son took an active interest Afterward, Mason said, “What a differ- Fairfax mayor, John Mason. in developing regional co- ence a quarter century makes! When I was operation and joint plan- the mayor of the City of Fairfax in the ’90s. By Bonnie Hobbs both building and main- ning and continues to be a there was little interest in trails and non-au- The Connection taining trails.” strong supporter of invest- to travel options. Today, the City is aggres- Fairfax’s Parks and Rec- ing in new trails and main- sively pursuing multimodal planning. future trail to be built in the City of reation Advisory Board taining existing trails.” “Key goals include creating ‘15-minute Fairfax was originally expected to (PRAB) provides recom- After hearing the resolu- neighborhoods’ – ensuring that 100 percent be called the Comstock Trail. But mendations on the nam- tion, Councilmember Jon of the residents can access a local activity, Aafter a recent action by the Fairfax ing of the City’s parks and Stehle said he was pleased as well as green space, trails or open space. City Council, this trail will instead be named trails. And at its Feb. 11 with “such a great motion via a safe, 15-minute walk from home. Cred- after former City Mayor, John Mason. meeting, it voted to endorse put forward by PRAB.” it goes to thoughtful leadership and strong, During the Council’s March 9 meeting, the recommendation to Councilmember Tom civic support.” Parks and Recreation Director Cathy Salga- change the Comstock Trail’s Ross then thanked Mason do read the staff report explaining the rea- name to the John Mason “for all his work on the MASON said, “I look forward to the day sons for the proposed change. She noted Trail. It then forwarded this John Mason City’s trails and on its bike- when the Gateway Regional Park, at the in- that Mason served as Fairfax’s mayor from request to Fairfax Mayor way program. His leader- tersection of Pickett and Old Pickett roads 1990-2002 and was the first, four-term may- David Meyer and the City Council for their ship and dedication made that possible.” – a NOVA park in collaboration with the City or in the City’s history. consideration. Referring to Mason’s vision for the City, Ross – will be an acknowledged, nodal point for “Under his proactive leadership, numer- added, “This trail will be a good way to rec- trails in Northern Virginia, connecting east to ous initiatives were undertaken, including THE OFFICIAL RESOLUTION presented to ognize his contributions to the City, over the Fairfax County Cross-County trail, north economic development, upgrading housing, them stressed that Mason has been a Fairfax many years.” to the Vienna-Fairfax-GMU Metro Station improving community appearance, encour- resident since 1975 and was instrumental Noting that she was on the PRAB board and onward to the W&OD Trail, and south aging the arts, and advancing regional coop- in creating the 2020 Commission, which fo- when Mason was its chairman, Councilmem- to GMU and onward to the Workhouse Arts eration – especially in the area of transpor- cused on long-term future needs of the City. ber Janice Miller said, “This is an appropri- Center and Occoquan Regional Park, about tation,” she said. It also stated that he “provided strong lead- ate move forward.” 14 miles away.” “Mason has a strong interest in and love ership in developing initiatives to strengthen Councilmember Joe Harmon said he, too, As for the Comstock Trail now being for the City, and especially its trail system,” the City’s economy.” “totally supported” this action, and then all named after him, Mason said, “I appreciate continued Salgado. “He has been a cham- Furthermore, noted the resolution, Mason the members approved it unanimously. As the honor. More importantly, if it helps to pion of expanding the City’s trails and has “advocated for the purchase and develop- a result, signage at the future entrances to generate momentum for a strong trails pro- been an advocate for providing funding for ment of open space throughout the City and this trail will be erected indicating that it gram, I’m even more appreciative.”
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 v 5 News
The traffic signal at Newington and Telegraph Roads was upgraded in Fairfax Restores early April. More FY 21 Budget Cuts
By Bonnie Hobbs The Connection Photo by Mike Salmon/ ith a potential shortfall of nearly $18 million in its The Connection FY 21 budget looming because of the pandemic, in WJanuary, the Fairfax City Council cut its capital and operating budgets. It also placed $7.9 million of budgeted expenses There’s More Than Meets the on hold. But as the City’s finances im- proved, in February, the Council Eye at Traffic Signal Intersections restored some $1.4 million of those previously frozen items into its 15 people working on the traffic signal program, but current, General Fund expenditure This technology dates that does not include Traffic Engineering, Permits, budget. And during its third quarter or contractor staff that deal with larger emergencies FY 21 budget review, last Tuesday, back to an invention by such as signals being knocked down, re-wiring, etc. April 6, it was able to give the go- The budget is $9.71 million. The traffic signal budget ahead to soon restore even more the son of a former slave. includes utilities, ancillary repairs, parts and equip- items. ment, labor, vehicles, maintenance contractors, and During that work session, City By Mike Salmon life cycle replacement, said Ellen Kamilakis, a Senior Manager Rob Stalzer said City staff Bonnie Hobbs/ The Connection Public Affairs Officer at VDOT Northern Virginia Dis- now recommends an additional The Connection trict. $166,868 worth of items held in Dave Hodgkins t the intersection of Telegraph and Newing- Each traffic signal light has a life cycle of about 15 reserve to be released, effective May ton Roads in the Mount Vernon District, the years until it needs to be serviced or replaced. The 1. Chief Financial Officer Dave Hodgkins then gave a presenta- traffic signal crews were out in early April, lights are out there in the elements, and bounce tion. Aupgrading the visibility of the lights, replac- around in high winds, rain or ice, so these fixtures “We’ll come back April 20 for action on our request,” he said. ing signal heads and backplates in accordance with a have to be durable. “We had a $20 million revenue reduction from what we proposed Federal Highways initiative to update their Manual on The actual bulbs are LED-based lamps. They are for FY 20 and what we adopted. Much of our increased revenues Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and High- warrantied for seven years but have an average of in FY 21 are going to help balance the FY 22 budget.” ways. The MUTCD defines the standards used by road about a 10-year life cycle. Amber indications. i.e, the He noted that the City received $4.3 million in CARES Act and managers nationwide to install “yellow light,” has a longer life cy- FEMA aid in FY 21 but stressed that “It won’t be ongoing revenue. and maintain traffic control devic- cle as they are not on as long as red We expect revenues to eventually increase, over time, without es on all public streets, highways, and green lamps. raising the tax rate, because of new development.” bikeways, and private roads open
Photos by Susan Laume/The Connection
The Community Market at the Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton offers a large outdoor venue for a variety of food and craft vendors on the grounds of the historic Lorton Workhouse
Workhouse Opens Community Market Season
By Susan Laume The Connection
he Workhouse Arts Georgia Knapp, 8, of Lorton, who attends Gesher Jewish Day Center, Lorton, kicked School, adds her cherry blossom to the Workhouse Wishing Tree. off its seasonal Commu- Tnity Market on April 10. Now beginning its second season, the Market opening included special activities celebrating Spring cherry blossom time, with Hawaiian dance performanc- es, haiku readings, and cherry blossom themed art, as well as the Market’s usual offering of local Dancers Audry vendors’ crafts, food and other and Rosalin of products. Although far from the Aldie, perform Tidal Basin, the Workhouse is an the Pearly Shells official participant in the National Hula. Cherry Blossom Festival. With a nod to the famous blos- soms and Asian and Pacific Island culture, the Community Market’s activities included workshops on origami cherry blossom and but- terfly making and a metal forging Nora Wong, of Bristol; Samantha Weinheiner, of Falls Church; demonstration. and Cherry Nutting, of Fairfax, dance group instructor and leader, Recognizing the community’s perform hula using pu’ili. Sticks made of bamboo with slits cut in needs during the health crisis, the one end with strands removed, create a rattle when moved and hit Community Market started last against the body. year, seeking to engage neighbors and friends in relief through art activi- ties and promote local businesses with a safe outdoor venue, explained Erin Wright, Event Rental Manager. The venue meets Covid-19 response safety requirements for social distancing in a Gari Jiménez, Black- large outdoor space. As a Community smith, “Flatline Forge,” Market, the event evolved from its early of Reston, brought a beginnings as a farmer’s market selling mobile forge and anvil fresh produce and food, to include a to demonstrate forging a wider variety of products, crafters, arti- steel blade; the company sans, hobbyists, food trucks, and small sells cutlery and black- businesses. Thirty-five vendors currently smithing tools. are under contract, for periods of one to seven months, with new vendors expect- ed throughout the season. The Market will open every Saturday from 10 a.m. Darnell and Amelia Mason, of Montclair, taste to 2 p.m., until Oct. 30. a sample before making a selection from Chloe Temple at “Chez Dee Bread.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 v 7 Home Life Style Britepaths Begins its Brighter Possibilities Campaign Kitchen Trends for 2021 Fairfax-based nonprofit Brite- are still struggling to keep their paths assists local people in homes and feed their families need with a variety of services. during the pandemic, others It offers resources to guide in- have begun to lift their heads up Local designers say bold colors and dividuals and families to better and wonder, ‘What’s next?’” outcomes through financial lit- “For years, Britepaths has durable materials are popular. eracy, workforce development sought to understand the and targeted mentorship. unique needs of each client,” By Marilyn Campbell But it can’t do it single hand- continued Whetzel. “We craft The Connection edly; it needs the community’s life-altering solutions designed support to carry out its mission. to bring about permanent s the command station for That’s why Britepaths Executive change. By supporting our vir- many households, kitch- Director Lisa Whetzel hopes tual campaign, you’re saying ens are for more than just people will participate in the that just surviving isn’t enough. Acooking. They’ve become organization’s Brighter Possibil- We want all our neighbors to spaces for Zoom meetings, home- ities fundraiser, this month, to move past their daily grind and work sessions, or just gathering to help make sure that those who find a pathway out of struggle. spend time with family during a sea- need resources the most will re- With your help, what’s next for son of hunkering down. ceive them and thrive. them are brighter possibilities.” As we begin to see a slow return to “For the families we serve, liv- To contribute, go to https:// some version of normal, thoughts of ing in a constant state of crisis britepaths.org/civicrm/contrib- hosting small dinner parties and in- is a very familiar feeling,” she ute/transact?reset=1&id=54. timate gatherings with close friends explained. “Last year, with our For more information or spon- could be on the horizon. Those vi- community’s support, we helped sorship details, contact Shan- sions spark a desire for a kitchen a lot of people find stability. But non Bryant at 703-273-8829. spruce-up. Whether simply switching Photo by John Cole what comes after the storm? out light fixtures or embarking on a This kitchen, created by designers at Anthony Wilder Design/ While many of our neighbors — Bonnie Hobbs complete renovation, a few of the Build, features a Caesarstone island and Silestone perimeter. area’s top designers share the trends they’re seeing in kitchen design this year. Area Roundups Faucets that operate with motion-activated sensors, one of Nicely Done Kitchens and Baths designer Jackie School Board Approves $41m Lluy favorite emerging trend. “The touchless faucets are great for a messy cook, plus they help keep the Frost Middle School kitchen and cook more sanitary,” she said. “Smart technology, such as … appliances that turn on remotely, is also trending,” added Nadia Subaran Renovation Contract of Aidan Design. The Fairfax County School Board has approved a more than $41 mil- Kitchen accessories with a touch of whimsy are pop- lion contract for Frost Middle School’s extensive renovation. ular this year, says Subaran. “Add fun elements with “Frost Middle School’s major renovation is long overdue. Thanks to light fixtures, such as library lights that make a kitch- Fairfax County taxpayers, these funds will help the school continue pro- en feel like a living space, and fabrics on stools and viding a top-notch education for years to come. I am grateful to see this banquettes,” she said. investment finally coming to fruition with the unanimous approval of Homeowners are now asking for kitchens that are this contract,” said Karl Frisch, Providence District Representative on the personalized, says designer Cathy Goss, also of Nicely Fairfax County School Board. Done Kitchens and Baths. “I’m seeing character piec- The renovation project will include additional classrooms, adminis- es, statement-making fixtures, personalized art and trative offices, a library, and site improvements, totaling approximately accessories are helping to customize spaces,” she said. 206,000 square feet. The estimated completion date is Fall 2023. “Add personality with your backsplash, said Kirsten Courtesy of Nicely Done Kitchens and Baths. Funding for the project — $41,150,000 — will come from the 2019 Gable of Anthony Wilder Design/Build. “Stone, sub- Infusing a neutral space with a vibrant color will School Bond Referendum and was approved without objection as part of way and glass tiles are great options. be a trend this year, says designer Cathy Goss of the consent agenda during last Thursday’s regular School Board meeting. After a mellow year of near solitude, many home- Nicely Done Kitchens and Baths. R.J. Crowley, Inc. received the contract as the lowest responsive and re- owners are seeking spaces that are bright sponsible bidder. and expressive, suggests Goss. “My favorite trend is to add more pops of color,” she said. “If I were going to design my “The new kitchen has a mix of metals, tex- Overnight Ramp Closure from ture, and weathered or light wood accents. It own kitchen again, I’d definite- also has more color and pattern with the tile Route 50 East to I-66 West and a mix of painted colors on the cabinets.” ly add a beverage refrigerator, As part of the Transform 66 Outside the Beltway Project, the ramp Bold colors, especially in shades of blue from Route 50 East to I-66 West will be closed from this Friday, April 16, and green are what homeowners are request- which frees up space in the at 9 p.m., until Saturday, April 17, at noon, for drainage work. Traffic will ing, added Subaran. “There’s a move away be directed to continue farther east, stay to the left and make a U-turn from all white kitchens,” she said. “Try wall- main refrigerator.” from the left-most, left turn lane at the Waples Mill Road traffic signal to paper, open shelving and mixed metals, such — Shannon Kadwell of Anthony Wilder Design/Build reach Route 50 West. Drivers will then stay to the right and follow signs as black and aged brass, for a layered look.” to I-66 West. All work is weather-dependent and will be rescheduled if Homeowners asking for kitchens with fea- inclement conditions occur. tures that make organization a breeze, says Gable. manufacturers are coming out with that option,” add- “Custom storage solutions to hide clutter makes a big ed Kate Couchman of Nicely Done Kitchens and Baths. difference in a kitchen’s overall appearance,” she said. Kadwell is in the midst of designing a kitchen that Dinner, Music and a Kitchens that are built to stand the test of time are has a sink with two faucets, a corner drain and a ledge growing in popularity, says designer Shannon Kadwell for cutting boards and bins. “Specialty sinks offer ver- Movie Outdoors also of Anthony Wilder Design/Build. Kadwell recent- satility,” she said. Homeowners are asking for custom Shoestring Theatre Co. presents the premiere of its film, “I Ain’t Made ly completed a kitchen with a white Caesarstone is- range hoods in metal or wood. Dedicated coffee and That Way,” on Saturday, April 24, at 7 p.m., at Veterans Amphitheater. It’s land and dark Silestone perimeter counters “Durable beverage stations are also in demand. “If I were go- adjacent to Fairfax City Hall at 10455 Armstrong St. Attendees are invit- quartz counters, such as Caesarstone or Silestone, are ing to design my own kitchen again, I’d definitely add ed to bring their blankets, lawn chairs and friends, get their dinner from popular, low maintenance choices.” a beverage refrigerator, which frees up space in the “I love quartz countertops with a matte finish. Most main refrigerator,” See Roundups, Page 11 8 v Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Live Outdoor Family-friendly Performance Arriving at Center for the Arts
By David Siegel The Connection Where and When he past year with the health and “Collision of Rhythm” duo Bronkar Lee and Aaron Williams take to Mason safety of audiences and perform- Pond Lawn outdoor stage at the George Mason University Center for the Arts, ers at the forefront because of the 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, on April 25, 2021 at 3 p.m. Tickets: $15 adult, pandemic, the Center for the Arts $10 child. Recommended for all ages. Performance will take place on Mason T Pond Lawn. Note: George Mason University has health and safety protocols has reimagined what was to be its 30th an- in place, which everyone must adhere to. FAQs about attending an outdoor niversary season of great entertainment. In performance on Mason Pond Lawn: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/outdoor-per- response to the pandemic with the utmost formances. Link to taking the Mason COVID Health Check prior to coming to health and safety precautions, the Center for campus: https://www2.gmu.edu/mason-covid-health-check the Arts has not been using its traditional in- door nearly 2000 seat venue: the Center had to creatively rethink and retool how it could details and ensure that we are struments, including the marimba, piano, present live entertainment. able to offer safe, fun artistic ex- saxophone, flute, and more, noted Bryant “Throughout the past year we have tried periences for our patrons. Godwin. to think creatively about how to continue “Collision of Rhythm” was “Collision of Rhythm” will be bringing a fulfilling our mission and serve the North- scheduled since the pandem- “high energy, engaging performance” to the ern Virginia community as a cultural hub,” Photos courtesy Center for the Arts ic has been particularly hard Mason Pond audience, said Lee. The event said Adrienne Bryant Godwin, director of Collision of Rhythm duo, from left -- Bronkar Lee on families, who are having to will be “uplifting one for music brings peo- programming. “Every time I pass Mason and Aaron Williams who will perform on Mason manage so much over the past ple together. Everyone is entitled and de- Pond Lawn I think to myself how great it Pond Lawn. year, said Godwin, “Collision of serves the right to be connected with music.” would be to activate that space as a per- Rhythm” is the ultimate dynam- “Life is in the detours,” added Lee. “To- formance venue. The circumstances of this with the Mason’s Student Involvement to ic duo made up of a tap-dancing percussion gether we can make the world a better place, past year have given us an opportunity to make the outdoor stage a reality, but it also virtuoso and a beatboxing, juggling multi-in- especially after the past year of challenges.” try it out! took a lot of logistical coordination with strumentalist. “Bring the entire family for this fun out- “The transformation of the Mason Pond other University departments,” added Bry- Aaron Williams and Bronkar Lee do it door performance. Plenty of music peppered Lawn into a performance venue has truly ant-Godwin. Staff has been working tire- all from drumming, tap-dancing, rhythmic with comic relief and inspirational stories,” been a collaborative effort. We partnered lessly to think through all of the necessary juggling, and music-making on multiple in- added Bryant Godwin.
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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 v 9 Calendar Classified NOW THRU APRIL 18 WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM Blossoms Galore at Mosaic Gallery. A new exhibit at the Torpedo Factory To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 Artists @ Mosaic gallery in Fairfax offers its own interpretation of the beauty of nature in a show titled Announcements Announcements Legals Legals “Art Blossoms 2021”, featuring artists from the Torpedo Factory PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR TOWN OF CLIFTON Artists’ Association. Additionally, there’s a special cherry-blossom APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT themed gift for purchasers spend- PUBLIC HEARING OF TOWN OF CLIFTON PLANNING COMMISSION ing $200 or more. The Torpedo APRIL 27, 2021 Factory Artists @ Mosaic is a Notice is hereby given that the Town of Clifton Planning Commission will hold an electronic Public satellite gallery sponsored by the Hearing on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at 7:30 P.M. via Zoom as permitted by law to consider the Torpedo Factory Artists’ Associa- application for a Special Use Permit for Môtier, LLC located at 12644 Chapel Road, to include restaurant use. The application for the proposed Special Use Permit is available for review and tion, and is located at 2905 District downloading on the Town’s website at www.cliftonva.gov and a hard copy may be examined at Avenue, #105, Fairfax. the Clifton Post Office, 12644 Chapel Road, Clifton VA, 20124. All interested parties are invited to attend and express their views with respect to the application. To obtain access to the elec- NOW THRU APRIL 17 tronic Public Hearing, contact the Town Clerk at [email protected] no later than Noon on April 27, 2021. Bluebells at Riverbend Park. At 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls. PUBLIC HEARING OF TOWN OF CLIFTON TOWN COUNCIL Celebrate the wildflowers with a MAY 4, 2021 week of fun, family-friendly, safe Notice is hereby given that the Town of Clifton Town Council will hold an electronic Public Hearing activities. Join them for hikes to on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 7:30 P.M. via Zoom as permitted by law to consider the application for a Special Use Permit for Môtier, LLC located at 12644 Chapel Road, to include restaurant learn more about all the wildflow- use. The application for the proposed Special Use Permit is available for review and downloading ers that make their home along the on the Town’s website at www.cliftonva.gov and a hard copy may be examined at the Clifton floodplains of the park and see the Post Office, 12644 Chapel Road, Clifton VA, 20124. All interested parties are invited to attend eagle’s nest. Also visit the learning Announcements Announcements and express their views with respect to the application. To obtain access to the electronic Public tables to create a bluebell craft, Hearing, contact the Town Clerk at [email protected] no later than Noon on May 4, 2021. meet some exhibit animals, and learn about volunteer and camp Announcements Announcements opportunities at the park. Preregis- tration is required for all hikes and numbers will be limited to follow safe social distancing guidelines. Call 703-759-9018.
WEDNESDAY/APRIL 14 (The) Unruly Theatre Project’s Virtual Improv Show. 7 p.m. Sponsored by The Alden. Join in (the) Unruly Theatre Project’s virtual spring improv shows from the comfort of your couch. You can register for one show or as many as you like, but participants need to register at least two hours in advance of a show to see it. A Zoom link and password for the show will be emailed to registrants. For more Announcements Announcements information or to register, visit: www.aldentheatre.org.
THURSDAY/APRIL 15 Virtual ‘80s Music Drag Bingo (Virtu- Announcements Announcements al). 7 p.m. Sponsored by The Alden Theater, McLean with Miss Fluffy Soufflé. Fluffy Soufflé takes you back to the ‘80s! Part bingo, part drag show, your music bingo card is made up of songs, and instead of calling out numbers, Fluffy plays music clips! Singing along and ‘80s-themed costumes encouraged. $10/$5 MCC tax district resi- dents. One ticket per bingo card. Zoom link and bingo cards will be emailed separately.
FRIDAY/APRIL 16 Campfire Fridays. 7:30-9 p.m. At Lake Accotink Park, 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield. Bring the whole family for an evening devoted to the wonders of the natural world. “Campfire Fridays” may include nature walks, interactive activi- ties, animal presentations or other opportunities to learn about nature and our place in it. Topics vary, but all the programs include s’mores. These Friday night programs are designed for participants age 3 to adult. Cost is $12 per person. Call 703-569-3464.
FRIDAY/APRIL 16 Musical Road Trip. 2-3 p.m. Via Zoom. Zoom off to revisit classic songs and guess trivia about different USA destinations with Benjamin Pernick, Music Therapist, Musical An expert is someone who knows some Comedy Actor, and Award-Winning of the worst mistakes that can be made Comedy Film Director. Funded by in his subject and how to avoid them. the Friends of Burke Centre Library. -Werner Heisenberg Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ library to receive Zoom link. 10 v Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Business Hitting The Nail Community Champions On the Head From Page 3 Directory By KENNETH B. LOURIE What are all these “Toe Nail Clipper” emails I Reverend, Dr. Brian Brown, Community Champion WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM receive nearly every day? And how do these senders 2021, Mount Vernon District - “I’m recognizing Reverend know that I’m actually the perfect recipient. Toe nail Dr. Brian Brown. This individual recognized the critical Call 703-549-0004 clippers and cuticle trimmers have been the bane of needs of the community during the pandemic, especial- for advertising information my existence going back as far as I can remember. ly their emotional and spiritual needs, as the Black Lives And as recently as I care to mention, these two ac- Matter movement and awareness grew in our community cessories have been front and center on my bedside table, in a drawer in my living room coffee table, and around the country. Working with our office, and our ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL in my car’s console/glove box and in any suitcase/ district and county public safety officers, and traffic enforce- overnight bag I take with me out of town. The fact ment to coordinate logistics, he organized a safe, peaceful of what has been the matter with me is that I bit my protest and supported black citizens who have lost their nails and trimmed my cuticles constantly, not out of lives to police action. Attracting over 1000 participants in appearance but due apparently, to some undiag- nosed mental condition, according to family and the speeches encouraging peaceful action as leverage for friends who were subjected to my relentless pursuit change, this march helped the community in grief and frus- of whatever ailed me. tration towards positive growth.” - Supervisor Daniel Storck The constant gnawing and “cuticlizing” of my (D-Mount Vernon) nails drove my parents nearly around the bend. Whatever they tried, which was not professional Judith Schneider-Fletcher, Community Champion help, couldn’t stop the train, so to speak. Unfortu- 2021, Providence District - “The Providence District LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING nately, they weren’t alive to see me stop. What joy Volunteer Champion serves as president for her neighbor- they would have felt for this change. Exultation. Un- fortunately, the change occurred quite by accident hood association, the Miller Heights Neighborhood Associ- and with no intent of mine. What happened was ation, and is very actively involved in championing drives, that I was diagnosed with cancer, rather than make including many we have partnered on, for Food for Others, me a nervous wreck about my original “terminal” for the Oakland High School, and Little Library. In 2020, to diagnosis, and bite my nails for a good reason, I just allay escalating food insecurity in our area, to organize her stopped, and it’s been over twelve years now. I still haven’t been to a manicurist, but I no longer scoff neighborhood for turnout for massive food drives working Summer Cleanup... at the suggestion. And though neither of my parents with Food for Others, the results - over 1,000 pounds of lived to see me stop biting my nails, they also both food donated. She brings her community together; she rais- died before learning about my lung cancer diagno- es awareness and advocates for those organizations dealing sis, for which I was extremely grateful. with food insecurity in the community. With her dedication Aside from the obvious reason why my mother to help, she has inspired and encouraged her neighbors to would have been upset about her “baby” being di- agnosed with lung cancer was the fact that through- be involved in tackling this issue.” - Supervisor Dalia Palchik out my childhood, my mother smoked four packs (D-Providence) of Chesterfield Kings every day. Then suddenly, she stopped, cold turkey, the coldest you can imagine. Stacey Brumbaugh, Community Champion 2021, It happened in the early 60s when the anti-smoking Springfield District -Stacey Brumbaugh is emblematic of campaign about the association between smoking the best kind of next-door neighbor. As a community leader, cigarettes and lung cancer began in earnest in this she stepped up efforts during the pandemic to help neigh- country. From that point forward, my mother never wavered in her commitment. There were no more bors donate food and living necessities to those in need by Landscape Drainage Landscape Drainage cigarettes and she lived to age 87, almost, when she offering her home as a collection and distribution location. died from natural causes, not cancer. In connection with her Community Action Center, her home Oddly enough, it was her non-smoking son, was transformed into a drop-off center for food, easily yours truly, who was diagnosed with lung cancer, accessible to community members, allowing distribution to part of an ever increasing percentage (upwards of neighbors in need. She is an example of how one person, 25% most recently) of non-smokers so diagnosed. Whether second hand smoke or environmental volunteering with care and commitment, can literally put exposure to certain chemicals, the numbers of lung food on the tables of those who have none.” - Supervisor Pat cancer patients who were non-smokers has been Herrity (R-Springfield) steadily increasing. And in a fortuitous twist of fate, it was this increase specifically in the number of Dr. Reverend Brenda McBorrough, Community Cham- non-smokers being diagnosed with cancer which pion 2021 Nominee, Sully District - “Like several of our led to a huge increase in research funding. Funding champions this year, this volunteer got to work during which has spawned an increase in the numbers of drugs approved by the FDA which have directly af- 2020 to support a critical mission area, food insecurity. She fected my treatment and subsequent survival. Now willingly and proactively fought this challenge through the what percentage of nail-biters are diagnosed with most precarious of times. In coordination with the county, cancer, I can’t say. she recruited volunteers to coordinate receipt of food and But this hyper-targeted email campaign - which other necessities, oversaw truck loading and dispatch to lo- features almost daily emails from people who are cations in her district weekly. Through her grassroots efforts, on a first-name basis with me and I them, according to their sender’s name, is remarkable in its having she effectively created a distribution service to ensure no reached a prime candidate, and one with a history one went hungry in her neighborhood, and she did it with of having used imperfect and/or failed implements grace, humility, and compassion.” - Supervisor Kathy Smith for this very purpose. If anybody would appreciate (D-Sully) the possibilities of this product, the relief it might provide, it would be me. If my mother were alive to- day, I’m sure she’d agree, nobody ever bit their nails more than I did. That’s how I learned the meaning of the word “quick: “the soft-tender flesh below the Area Roundups growing part of a fingernail or toenail.” With all the self-consciousness I endured while From Page 8 nail-biting (and the visual condition of my fingers as a result), I wish I could take credit for having figured out the underlying cause, or had found a topical Old Fire Station No. 3 (at 3988 University Drive) and then settle in for an enjoyable, solution and/or a hypnotic suggestion that would outdoor evening of Appalachian music and an entertaining story. help me stop. But I didn’t. Apparently, the cancer This is a Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts event, and COVID rules will limit seat- made me stop, and not even consciously. To quote ing, so people are encouraged to get their tickets early. Individual and family/ the late B.B.King: “The thrill is gone.” friends pod seating is available. Get tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/i- aint-made-that-way-opening-musical-performance-by-tyler-hughes-tickets- Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for 140726491725?aff=ebdsoporgprofile. The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 v 11 12 v Burke / Fairfax / Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton / Springfield v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com