BurkeBurke East All-Stars SpringSpring Win Suburban FunFun Classic 20142014 Sports, Page 16 Page 10

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Lake Braddock senior Caitlyn Mandela scored four points for the East all-stars during the 10th Suburban Classic on March 23 at Oakton High School.

Blizzard of Hosting Students from Japan Spending News, Page 4 News, Page 3

Photo by Craig Sterbutzel/The Connection www.ConnectionNewspapers.comMarch 27 - April 2, 2014 online at www.connectionnewspapers.comBurke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic 703-778-9414 or [email protected] News Budget Competition Taxes to increase across Northern Virginia, some more Potholes on North Pitt Street in Old than others. Town Alexandria. By Michael Lee Pope a tax rate of $1.085 for every The Connection $100 of assessed value. Earlier this month, the Board of Super- wo things are certain in visors voted to advertise a real Tlife, death and taxes. estate rate that’s two cents And just as the spring higher, $1.105 for every $100 flowers start to bloom this time of assessed value. Budget offi- a year, so do concerns about ris- cials say one penny of the tax ing tax bills. As local govern- rate is equal to about $21.9 Photo by Michael Lee Pope/The Connection ments across Northern Virginia million in general revenue, and consider budget proposals, tax- an additional $50 for the aver- payers are reaching for their age residential property tax- wallets. A review of proposed payer. That means that super- Blizzard of Spending budgets in the region shows visors might end up increasing residential property taxpayers the average bill more than Alexandria currently has 574 requests since the in Fairfax are looking at the $400. Polar vortex sends beginning of January to March 21, a 552 percent largest potential increase, more “It is important that the board increase over last year, which was 88 requests for than $300. Taxpayers in Alex- allows for flexibility in consid- financial chill through service. About 42 of those are still being investigated andria are looking at the small- ering a tax rate so that debate to see what kind of remedy would be appropriate. est potential increase, less than and discussion is not cut off at local governments. That’s part of a regional effort to address potholes $200. the very beginning of the bud- throughout Northern Virginia, a region that has been “There is always a competi- get process,” said Fairfax By Michael Lee Pope hit with a disproportionate amount of precipitation tion among Northern Virginia County Board of Supervisors The Connection and freezing weather this year. All local governments local governments for who can Chairman Sharon Bulova. “The are trying to figure out how much this year’s winter either cut the most or raise their board can adopt a tax rate that he unusually hard winter has created a will cost them as the next budget season approaches. property tax the least,” said is lower but not higher than blizzard of spending for local govern- “All invoices for snow-related costs for the last event Frank Shafroth, director of the what is advertised.” Tments across Northern Virginia — burst have not been paid. Some not received yet,” said Center for State and Local Lead- Last month, County Execu- ing through budgeted amounts for snow Arlington budget director Richard Stephenson. “In ership at George Mason Univer- tive Ed Long presented a pro- removal and treating roads, leaving a lasting legacy addition, the cost of pot hole repairs will not be sity. “So it is a healthy competi- posed budget with flat commer- of potholes that will be plaguing roads this spring. known for some time.” tion.” cial tax revenues and lower Officials at the Virginia Department of Transporta- Now that government execu- than expected tax revenues for tion say they spent $175 million on snow removal THE COSTS of the polar vortex are not easy to grasp, tives have presented their pro- sales taxes, hotel taxes and this winter, more than twice as much than they were partially because it’s difficult to know what the final posed budgets to elected offi- business and professional li- planning to spend. And that’s just for starters. bill will be and partially because nobody knows how cials, members of the public are cense taxes. Budget officials say “This is going to be a much worse pothole season much the damage will be inflicted. Anecdotal evi- presenting their input in a se- the only area that is experienc- than in years past,” said Jennifer McCord, spokes- dence is overwhelming. Drivers know that their roads ries of formal public hearings ing an upward tick is the as- woman for VDOT. “We’ve been filling them, basically, are deteriorating rapidly. Alexandria and Arlington and informal discussions. At is- sessed value of residential since the winter started.” have dominion over their own streets, although the sue for government leaders is property. That means Alexandria spent $1.6 million on snow control. roads of Fairfax County are maintained by officials what kinds of investments are homeowners are likely to get That’s more than twice the amount city officials set at the Virginia Department of Transportation, who necessary to enhance property stuck with a higher tax bill just aside in the budget, which was $836,000. And Ar- are scrambling to meet all the requests they have values, the cash cow for juris- to keep the current level of ser- lington officials say they’ve already spent more than been confronted with since the polar vortex swept dictions in Virginia. Shafroth vice. $2 million even though they had budgeted only $1.1 into town. says homeowners generally “As the county continues to million. Local governments across the region will be “Our roads are in pretty sorry shape,” said Del. want to see their assessments face fiscal challenges, we must forced to dip into their contingency funds to deal Scott Surovell (D-44). “The snow removal expense increase, although nobody persist in our cautious and de- with the record amounts of snow dumped on North- has now begun to eat into the repaving expense for wants to pay the higher tax bill. liberative approach to budget- ern Virginia this year. this year, and so VDOT is having to look at deferring “All of that, of course, could ing, only funding items that are “If they don’t deal with these potholes quickly, the paving projects that were planned for 2014 because change significantly if Congress sustainable,” said Long. “We cost will become much greater,” said Frank Shafroth, of the amount of money that it has to spend on snow eliminates the deductibility of also must be ready to make the director of the Center for State and Local Govern- expenses.” the property tax and limits the necessary decisions to maintain ment Leadership. “Waiting longer means they have Budget officials across Northern Virginia will not home mortgage deduction,” investment in our services, in- to dig up the road bed, which is way more expensive know the final expense of the polar vortex for some said Shafroth. “Those two frastructure and development than filling a pothole.” time. That’s because all the invoices have not yet been changes would make today’s of the community.” received by local governments. Those expenses will whines seem ludicrous in com- POTHOLES FORM when roads experience mois- probably become more digestible for budget officials parison.” IN ARLINGTON, county man- ture and then a rapid freeze and thaw. Moisture gets during the mid-year review or the third-quarter re- ager has proposed a tax rate of into cracks in the road, which undermines the road view, long after the snow has melted and the spring IN FAIRFAX COUNTY, the surface. Then traffic pummels the already under- flowers have wilted. Until that time, government county executive has proposed See Taxes, Page 14 mined road surface over and over until the cracks leaders will be working overtime to fix the damage become larger and larger. Over time the cracks start of the polar vortex. One day last week, for example, to peel away as pieces of asphalt fly away. When that Alexandria had four crews out repairing 375 potholes Proposed Tax Increases ❖ happens over and over, the cracks start to grow larger using six tons of hot-mix asphalt. Alexandria: The average residential property tax bill would increase from $4,901 to $5,091. The additional $190 would be a 3.88 percent and larger. “We can’t do a really active and intense period of increase. “That creates a minor depression that can some- pothole repairs when temperatures are very cold,” ❖ Arlington: The average residential property tax bill would increase times grow into something much larger that we af- said Lambert. “We’ve had more than 30 inches of from $5,278 to $5,560. The additional $282 would be a 5 percent fectionately call a pothole,” said Yon Lambert, deputy snow this year whereas we had less than two inches increase. ❖ Fairfax: The average residential property tax bill would increase from director for operations of the Alexandria Department last year, and that combined with the very cold tem- $5,071 to $5,403. The additional $332 would be a 6.54 percent increase. of Transportation and Environmental Services. peratures has a very big impact on our roads.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 3 News Photos by

Janelle Germanos

/The Connection

Safiyyah Nadeem, a senior at Lake Braddock Secondary School, poses with Japanese exchange students Natsuki Tsuchimoto and Ayano Ito. Student representatives from South Lakes, Hayfield and Lake Braddock Nadeem visited Japan last summer, and this week hosted Tsuchimoto at accept a gift from Japanese exchange students at an event celebrating her house. the KAKEHASHI Project at Hayfield Secondary School. Fairfax County Hosts Students from Japan 23 students also visited Japan last summer. By Janelle Germanos The Connection

ast summer, 23 students studying Japanese at Lake Braddock, LHayfield and South Lakes High Schools received a full scholarship to visit Japan for ten days as part of the KAKEHASHI Project, a cultural exchange program that aims to connect students from Japan and the U.S. After an exciting and educational trip, students from these Fairfax schools hosted Japanese students visiting the U.S. during the students’ trip in March. To celebrate the exchange of culture and friendship, the three schools hosted an Fairfax County Public Schools students from Lake Braddock, Hayfield and South Lakes pose with students event to celebrate the project at Hayfield from Japan at an event celebrating the KAKEHASHI Project, which has allowed these students to learn about Secondary School on March 24. each other’s culture. The Japanese exchange students, who the schools participating in the program. attend Kawagoe High School in Mie Pre- Students who visited “It’s very impressive to see students come fecture of Japan, shared lessons on Japa- to another land and speak in a target lan- nese culture to Fairfax County students, Japan in summer 2013 guage,” said Gregory Jones, the chair of parents and community members. Audience ❖ Hayfield Secondary School: Michael Chong, Fairfax County Public Schools World Lan- members learned about Japanese food, lit- Colin Moore, Allison Loyola, Virginia Shih, Gerrica Asihene, Catherine Kenol; guages program. erature, entertainment, and more. ❖ South Lakes High School: Zachary McIntyre, “That is exactly what we are trying to do Fairfax County students also reflected on Paul Fertitta, Barbara Acosta, Jessica Lin, Melanie with our students in terms of teaching them their experiences in Japan. Anderson, Christina Bohnet; and giving them the opportunity to learn ❖ Lake Braddock Secondary School: Dennis “It was a lot of fun,” said Safiyyah Nguyen, Bryce Ahn, Jeong Min (Mary) Choi, other languages and interact culturally ap- Nadeem, a senior at Lake Braddock Second- Safiyyah Nadeem, Min Ju (Sarah) Kwon, Hannah propriate within the target language and ary School. “I want to go back.” Moon, Aysha Benomran, Melissa Pampel, Emma within the culture.” Nadeem, along with several other stu- Hurst, Annalise Deppmeier, Emely Pascual. Adam Podell, Kyoko Vaughan, and Keiko ❖ Teachers: Lake Braddock: Keiko Abrams; dents, hosted an exchange student at her South Lakes: Adam Podell; Hayfield: Kyoko Abrams, Japanese teachers from South house during the Japanese students’ visit Vaughan. Lakes, Hayfield and Lake Braddock, accom- to Virginia. panied the Fairfax County students on their Natsuki Tsuchimoto, a 17-year-old junior trip to Japan. from Japan, stayed with Nadeem, and said talking with their host families and stu- “These are all students from very strong it was the best part of her trip. Gregory Jones, the chair of Fairfax dents. Japanese language programs,” Abrams said. “I love my host family,” Tsuchimoto said. County Public Schools World Lan- “It’s a lot of fun being able to talk and do “After they went on the trip, they are study- Tsuchimoto and her friend Ayano Ito said guages, speaks at a celebration stuff together,” Nadeem said. ing completely differently. they have enjoyed their time in the U.S., celebrating the KAKEHASHI Project The KAKEHASHI Project has allowed stu- They are studying much more than be- especially visiting the Farmers Market in at Hayfield. dents from 28 high schools and nine post- fore. A lot of them want to major in it in Seattle and the monuments in Washington, secondary institutions to visit Japan since college.” D.C. said. it began in April 2013. The KAKEHASHI Project has set a goal of They’ve also noticed the differences be- The Japanese students said they love The schools in the U.S. then host students sending 47 secondary schools and 24 post- tween U.S. and Japanese culture. American food, especially hamburgers, from Japan, who visit two major cities and secondary institutions to Japan by the end “The houses here are huge,” Tsuchimoto sandwiches, steak and French fries, and love stay with an American family from one of of March 2015. 4 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Compassion Award for County Animal Shelter The Virginia Federation of toward reducing euthanasia of (From left) are Lee Ann Humane Societies has selected healthy and treatable dogs and Shenefiel, business opera- the state’s top animal shelters cats in the community. Deborah tions manager; Shelter and programs that made a Griggs, a board member of the Director Tawny Hammond; difference in the animal welfare Virginia Federation of Humane Kelly Willet, animal care in 2013. And the Fairfax County Societies, presented the award. operations manager; and Animal Shelter received the Last year, Fairfax County was the Kristen Auerbach, commu- Compassion Award for its largest jurisdiction in the U.S. nications and outreach demonstration of strong leader- with an animal-placement rate director. ship and significant progress above 90 percent.

Photo Contributed Faith Notes

Send notes to the Connection at [email protected] or call 703-778-9416. Deadline is Friday. Dated announcements should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event.

Mothers and daughters, come together to enjoy Bingo, crafts, games, refreshments and more. Bring your fa- vorite teacup and wear your best tea party hat for special contest categories. The cost is $25/couple with an extra $5 for each additional sibling. The Tea is Saturday, April 5, from 2- 4 p.m. at Burke United Methodist Church. There will also be a silent auc- tion with a portion of the proceeds to benefit SHARE - Share Her Annual Real Expenses - a Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital program that provides funding for Girl Scout campsites, leader training and financial aid. For reservations contact Sandy Latta at 703-495-0063 or [email protected]. Reservations close March 29.

The Cancer Treatment Centers of America, sponsored by the Cancer Support Team, Ministry of Greater Little Baptist Church, Fairfax, will present “Restore: The Journey Toward Self For- giveness & Physical Health” on Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Greater Little Zion Baptist Church, 10185 Zion Drive, Fairfax. This is a free event. To RSVP, call the church at 703- 764-9111 or email Cancer Support Team Ministry at [email protected] The speaker will be Rev. Dr. Michael Barry author of the Forgiveness Project and Director of Pastoral Care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Phila- delphia, Pa.

The Effects of Mass Incarcera- tion: A Public Forum on Criminal Justice Sentencing Reform will be held on Sunday, April 6, 2 - 4 p.m. at Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church, 10125 Lakehaven Drive, Burke. The panelists include state Sen. Dave Marsden, the Sentencing Project’s Nazgol Ghandnoosh, Fairfax’s Deputy County Executive David Rohrer. They will engage these concerns: the United States has more people in jail than any nation in the history of the world. Un- intended consequences of this Mass Incarceration are especially devastating to poor communities of color. Young African-American Men are more likely to go to jail than to college. Many drug offenders are discriminated against in housing, voting and education after they have served their sentences. How do we minimize the human costs of the Drug War and Mass Incarceration and fix this crisis? For more info got to www.accotinkuuc.org - or call 703-503- 4579 and ask for Reverend Scott Sammler-Michael See Faith, Page 14 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 5 News Walk, Candlelight Vigil Honors Crime Victims

of the E and Me band will perform live jazz. The free event to kick off The walk will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the candlelight vigil honoring the victims, from 7-7:30 National Crime Victims’ p.m. For more information and to register, go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NCVRW2014. Rights Week, April 6-12. The first 200 people registered will receive free T- shirts. By Bonnie Hobbs The walk and vigil are being hosted by the Victims The Connection Services Section of the county Police Department and the Fairfax County Law Enforcement Foundation. And airfax County remembers local people the community is invited to join the professionals who’ve been victims of crimes. And on who support local victims of homicide, trauma, sexual F Sunday, April 6, at Fairfax Corner, they’ll and domestic violence, child physical and sexual be honored via the second annual 5K Walk abuse, stalking, human trafficking and suicide as they and Candlelight Vigil. walk together. The free event, in front of the movie theater at A related event during that week will be held 4100 Monument Corner Drive in the Fairfax Corner Thursday, April 10, from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., at The shopping center, kicks off National Crime Victims’ Greene Turtle Restaurant, 3950 University Drive, Rights Week, April 6-12. Suite 209, in the City of Fairfax. Sponsored by the Each April, law-enforcement agencies, along with Fairfax County Law Enforcement Foundation, it’s a organizations and communities, join together to ob- fundraiser for the Victim Services Section so it can serve this week. The goal is to promote victims’ rights continue meeting the immediate needs of crime vic- and honor crime victims and the people who work tims. tirelessly advocating on their behalf. Those eating lunch or dinner that day at The Green Fairfax County Police Chief Edwin C. Roessler Jr. Turtle will have 20 percent of the gross proceeds from and Commonwealth’s Attorney Ray Morrogh will their meal donated to the cause. To participate, welcome attendees and give opening remarks at 5:30 people must download an event flyer at p.m. First, though, check-in and a resource fair fea- www.fairfaxfoundation.org, print it and present it to turing more than 15 vendors from local and national their server when they order. service providers will be held from 4:30-5:30 p.m. To learn more about the Police Department’s Vic- The participants include Dr. Will Marling, execu- tim Services section, visit http:// tive director, National Organization for Victim Assis- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/services/victim- Some of the participants in last year’s 5K Walk and tance. In addition, Steve Shillingford and Peter Khan services.htm. Candlelight Vigil.

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Spring Community Open House Put yourself in this picture • Come Live Your Dream! Sunday, April 6, 2014, Noon – 5:00 p.m. Active Adult Community (55+ or 20% between 50-54) • Take a short tour of our golf course (Non-resident Memberships Available) • Meet a volunteer resident, tour the facilities, ask questions, relaxed environment! • Enjoy the Dining Room Brunch (9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.) Cost Range $10-$17 (Credit Card/Check Only) Reservations required by COB Wednesday 4/2, contact Joan 703-743-1325 (Limited Seating) • Realtor Open Houses 1–4 p.m. (Independent of Community Open House)

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6901 Arthur Hills Drive • Gainesville, VA 20155 • 703-743-5490 • [email protected] Photo by Ed Knepley 6 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News ‘Goal Is To Spot Kids in Crisis’ Police, oth- ers take sui- cide preven- tion training.

By Bonnie Hobbs The Connection

lthough there have Abeen four recent incidents of teen suicides in Fairfax County, the Police Department has planned to offer Suicide

Awareness and Interven- Bonnie Hobbs/The Connection tion Training for its offic- ers since October 2013. So police and others who work with youth re- cently took a two-day course at the Criminal Jus- tice Academy in Chantilly to learn how they can help prevent people at immedi- ate risk of suicide from fol- lowing through. “This is a collaboration Police Lt. Christian Quinn, school liaison between school social commander, discusses the new suicide workers, counselors, [po- awareness and intervention training. lice] School Resource Of- ficers [SRO] and school security,” said police Lt. Christian Quinn, look for are behavioral changes; threaten- school liaison commander. “SROs are the ing messages; and a change in grades, liaison between the Police Department and friends and/or activities outside of school. the school system.” That’s why, said Quinn, “Parental involve- “This training will give the officers some ment is paramount. If parents see changes perspective and help them establish rela- in their kids, they can bring it to the atten- tionships with these other groups because tion of the SRO. they see the kids first,” he continued. “The They and the school social workers and goal is to spot kids in crisis and provide them counselors are the first net to provide safety with meaningful intervention before they and catch something. make tragic choices.” Then there can be some intervention and The workshop focused on small-group kids can get help, such as a referral for long- discussions and skills that could help them term care.” save lives. Officers learned how to recog- About 30 people signed up for the mid- nize a call for help, reach out and offer sup- March class at the Criminal Justice Acad- port and connect people with the particu- emy. lar resources they need. They were evenly divided between SROs, “This is the means to identify kids strug- school security, and school social workers, gling and maybe not voicing it,” said Quinn. clinicians and counselors. “Not everybody who’s depressed commits Master trainers from the ASIST (Applied suicide, and not everybody who’s suicidal Suicide Intervention Skills Training) pro- expresses this feeling. So we try to see what gram - offered by a company called subtle behaviors they do in advance so we LivingWorks - provided the instruction. Also can provide proactive measures.” sponsoring the course was the Virginia De- For example, it helps if police, social work- partment of Criminal Justice Services; it was ers or counselors can receive a peer refer- funded by a grant. ral because of something disturbing or un- According to ASIST, as much as 6 percent settling that a teen posted on social media. of the population has serious thoughts of Then, said Quinn, “We can put in a safety suicide. In Fairfax County, there were 94 plan and try some steps to help [that teen].” suicides in 2012 and 95 in 2013. So far this SROs get to know students and their year, there have been 19 — and 15 of them friends personally. were teenagers. So often, said Quinn, “The kids will go to “Suicidal persons find all manner of the SRO and say, ‘I’m concerned about So means to accomplish the act,” said Quinn. and So.’ If it prevents even one suicide, it’s “They don’t choose one way over the other. worth the effort.” We take the issue very seriously, and we He said teens often exhibit some telltale know this training is critical so the folks on behavior signaling they’re having some type the front line will have a better chance to of problems. Some of the warning signs to do something productive to keep kids safe.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 7 Opinion Burke

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

@BurkeConnection Challenging Budgets An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. But state income tax, paid disproportionately Published by Local Media Connection LLC Local Government should be able to access by workers in Northern Virginia, are collected by the state for the state budget. The exact 1606 King Street income taxes to give relief on real estate taxes. percentage of money that returns to Northern Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Virginia is debated, but it is definitely small. Free digital edition delivered to orthern Virginia governments are Localities should have the ability to add a pig- your email box. Go to Editorial connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe facing shortfalls in the classic gyback tax to the state income tax in order to budget sense: projected revenues erty values have increased this year, and local provide needed and expected services while N NEWS DEPARTMENT: are less than last year’s expendi- governments are also considering increases in giving relief to homeowners. To discuss ideas and concerns, tures plus increases in costs. the property tax rate, meaning homeowners Anyone familiar with the political process in Call: 703-778-9410 Alexandria City Manager Rashad Young will pay more in taxes. Virginia knows that this is a pipe dream with e-mail: [email protected] Young: “This is the seventh straight year of Fairfax County Real Estate Assessments in- essentially zero chance. It would have to pass budgetary challenges, where the cost of cur- creased 5.8 percent for single family homes, the Virginia General Assembly. Nevertheless, Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 rent services and previous commitments ex- 8.4 percent for townhouses and 10.5 percent it makes no sense for Northern Virginia to pay [email protected] ceeds our revenue growth.” His proposed bud- for condos. In Arlington, property values grew income taxes to the state without being able Amna Rehmatulla get includes $190.6 million for Alexandria City about 5.8 percent this year. That includes to benefit. Editorial Assistant Public Schools, a 2.62 percent increase over single-family houses and townhouses, which Meanwhile, Arlington FY 2015 tax rate pub- 703-778-9410 ext.427 FY2014 but $2.5 million less than requested went up 6.2 percent, as well as condominiums, lic hearing is March 27 at 7 p.m. More on [email protected] by the Alexandria School Board. which went up 5.9 percent. In Alexandria, resi- Arlington’s budget: http:// Victoria Ross Fairfax County Chairman of the Board of dential assessments increased 4.8 percent. countyboard.arlingtonva.us/budget/ County Reporter 301-502-6027 Supervisors Sharon Bulova: “This will be a very But just because a home is worth more this Fairfax County’s public hearings, all in the [email protected] challenging budget.” Fairfax County Public year than last year doesn’t actually put any board auditorium at the government center: Schools Superintendent Karen Garza proposed more money in anyone’s pocket. The increases Effective Tax Rate Hearing 3 p.m., April 8, Jon Roetman Sports Editor an increase of 5.7 percent, $98 million more are mostly modest and necessary in an area 2014; Budget Public Hearing 6 p.m., April 8; 703-778-9410 than the schools requested last year, but su- that prides itself on providing an exceptional 3 p.m., April 9; 3 p.m., April 10. More on [email protected] pervisors have said to expect an increase of 2 quality of life and thriving business environ- Fairfax County Budget, http:// @jonroetman percent. ment. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dmb/ Fairfax County, along with Arlington and Employment and jobs are also strong in For more on Alexandria’s budget https:// ADVERTISING: For advertising information Alexandria, is wrestling with how to fund in- Northern Virginia, with unemployment at 3.7 www.alexandriava.gov/budget/info/ e-mail: creasing financial requests from schools, in- percent in Fairfax, 4.1 percent in Alexandria default.aspx?id=75641. [email protected] creasing needs for human services and provid- and 3.2 percent in Arlington. Northern Virginia A favorite guideline on testimony at budget Steve Hogan ing a safety net, and many other areas of local is the economic engine of Virginia. The over- hearings comes in Arlington: “Repetitious tes- Display Advertising, 703-778-9418 budgets. all unemployment rate in Virginia is 5 percent, timony is discouraged.” Good luck with that. [email protected] In Virginia, localities are allowed few areas with these statistics from the Bureau of Labor Andrea Smith of revenue, and local budgets are funded pri- Statistics. These rates are far below the na- — Mary Kimm Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 [email protected] marily through real estate property taxes. Prop- tional rate. [email protected] Debbie Funk National Sales 703-778-9444 Small Farmers Need Clean Water [email protected] Editor & Publisher By Mariette Hiu Newcomb huge loopholes in the Clean Water Act. of an impaired water source. And waterways could soon again have Mary Kimm And Kimberly Williams 703-778-9433 These loopholes leave 57 percent because of that, many small farm- the protections they deserve. [email protected] of Virginia’s streams and many of ers in Virginia take great care to Whether we’re fishing, swimming, @MaryKimm orthern Virginia’s small its wetlands at risk of unchecked be stewards of their land and our watering crops, or just turning on the Executive Vice President farmers know the im- pollution. To make matters worse, waterways. But without adequate tap, the health of our waterways is Jerry Vernon N [email protected] portance of keeping the these are the same waterways that protections to all our waterways, critical to our way of life. All our wa- water that we all depend on clean. feed and filter waterways like the we can’t ensure that our water will terways should be clean enough that Editor in Chief They worry that polluted water Potomac River and, on their own, remain clean enough for drinking, we can swim in them without risk- Steven Mauren Managing Editor could contaminate their crops — provide the drinking water for 2 swimming, or watering our crops. ing getting sick and fish from them Kemal Kurspahic the fruits and vegetables that are million Virginians. Fortunately, the U.S. Environmen- without fearing the catch is too con- Photography: supposed to keep people nour- The effects of these loopholes on tal Protection Agency has the power taminated to eat. And the water that Deb Cobb, Louise Krafft, Craig Sterbutzel ished and healthy. Local farmers Virginia could be huge. The health to close these loopholes and help farmers give to their livestock should Art/Design: are doing their part to reduce run- of our families, our local economy ensure that all Virginia’s waterways come from protected sources. Laurence Foong, John Heinly Production Manager: off pollution into the streams that and the ecosystem depend on our are safe for future generations to Whether we’re farmers, entrepre- Geovani Flores feed into the Potomac River. waterways being clean and safe. enjoy just like we do today. neurs, local officials, or ordinary But the Potomac River and other And our farms need clean water to For over a decade, the nation’s families, we all need the EPA to move Special Assistant to the Publisher Jeanne Theismann waterways across Virginia remain grow healthy food for our commu- biggest polluters have been fight- forward and fix the Clean Water Act 703-778-9436 at risk. nities. No one should be allowed to ing tooth and nail to keep the EPA now to ensure that places like the [email protected] The Clean Water Act has been dump waste into the waterways from fixing these loopholes and let- Potomac River are protected now @TheismannMedia helping protect waterways across that provide our communities with ting the cops on the environmental and for future generations. the country from pollution for the drinking water and a place to visit beat protect waterways like the CIRCULATION: 703-778-9426 Mariette Hiu Newcomb is the owner Circulation Manager: past 40 years. Through its protec- and enjoy. We all have a stake in Potomac River. But this fall, the EPA of Potomac Vegetable Farms, a local Ann Oliver tions, we’ve made huge progress in clean water, and we know from the took the first big step toward pro- farm in Northern Virginia that [email protected] cleaning up Virginia’s waterways, days before the Clean Water Act tecting all of Virginia’s waterways specializes in growing crops without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Their giving even more Virginians the that when polluters dump into our when it initiated the process to fi- vegetables, herbs, and cut flowers are opportunity to fish and swim in riv- streams and pave over our wet- nally close these loopholes. This is available at farmers markets, our two ers like the Potomac. But if pollut- lands, we all suffer. great news for people across Vir- on-farm roadside stands, and through ers like Big Ag and Big Oil have their Virginia’s small farmers have a ginia, especially small farmers. If their 550-member CSA. Kimberly Williams is the Clean Water way, that progress will stop here. particularly large stake in clean the EPA continues to move forward Associate with Environment Virginia, a Polluter-led lawsuits have opened up water and would feel the impacts and fixes the Clean Water Act, our citizen based advocacy organization. 8 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters

County’s Urge to Spend

To the Editor: has a rate in the order of 12 per- The power to tax is the power cent in spite of the letter’s claim to destroy. that the increase is (only) 9 per- When the economy was boom- cent. ing Fairfax County spent (and Hopefully the Board of Supervi- spent) and most of us ere too busy sors will, with taxpayer input, do to take as much notice as needed. a line by line review of the draft Now many years later the county budget and get the fat out before urge to spend remains high as if it’s too late. the tax payers have unlimited re- sources. My tax rate, based on the Bill Finberg assessment letter recently received Burke A Short Walk to Save a Life To the Editor: fected by kidney disease in the As a kidney transplant recipient, National Capital Area. Join me on I know firsthand how kidney dis- Sunday, April 13 at the Northern ease impacts a family and how a Virginia Kidney Walk [in Reston little knowledge can go a long way. Town Center] or on Saturday, May I ignored the symptoms of my 17 at the National Capital Area failing kidneys for three years. I Kidney Walk. chalked them up to stress, poor Funds raised at the National Kid- diet and lack of sleep. One day I ney Foundation serving the Na- passed out, was rushed to the hos- tional Capital Area Kidney Walks pital, and immediately put on di- go directly to vital programs that alysis. In the blink of an eye, my help fight kidney disease through family nearly lost me. prevention, advocacy and educa- This spring, I will be walking tion. Take the first step, visit with kidney patients, organ do- www.kidneywalk.org. nors, transplant recipients, family, friends and co-workers to help Daryle McGhee raise awareness of the 700,000 Assistant Vice President, First individuals and their families af- Citizens Bank

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 9 Spring Fun 2014 Calendar Send notes to the Connection at [email protected] or call 703-778-9416. The deadline is the Friday prior to the next paper’s publication. Dated announcements should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event.

WEDNESDAY/MARCH 26- Paul H. SUNDAY/MARCH 30 Bailey Presents Built to Amaze 6th Annual Used Book Sale. Hours Circus. GMU Patriot Center, 4400 March 26 8 a.m. – 4p.m.; March 27. 8 University Drive, Fairfax. Tickets: Weisshaar, M.D. a.m. – 6 p.m.; March 28 8 a.m. – 4 $15-$30. For more information and p.m.; and March 30 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. showtimings visit, Gesher Jewish Day School, 4800 www.ticketmaster.com. will close his Ginger Costa- Mattie Moore Court, Fairfax. Over Jackson as 10,000 neatly sorted gently read books will be offered for sale at prices SUNDAY/APRIL 27 Gynecology Carmen and from $0.50 to $2.50. On March 30, all Jeffrey Siegel, “Mistresses and Dinyar Vania books are $5 a bag. Masterpieces.” 7 p.m., George as Don Jose in Mason University Center for the Arts, FRIDAY/MARCH 28- 4400 University Drive, MS 2F5, practice on Virginia SATURDAY/MARCH 29 Fairfax. The pianist performs music Opera’s pro- Children’s Consignment Sale. inspired by composers’ major love duction of Friday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday: 9 interests. $19-$38, Mason ID permits 4/30/2014 a.m. – 12 p.m. At Cameron United 1 free ticket on April 15. cfa.gmu.edu. “Carmen.” Methodist Church, 3130 Franconia Young Artists Musicale. 6 p.m., Road, Alexandria. George Mason University Center for Make some extra cash by selling your the Arts lobby, 4400 University Drive, children’s outgrown (but in good MS 2F5, Fairfax. Piano students and condition) clothes, equipment/toys, winners of the Northern Virginia and maternity wear while helping Get ready, the circus is coming to town! Join in on the fun Music Teachers Association Honors other parents outfit their growing with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey as they Recitals perform short pieces. Free children. Sellers receive 60% of the admission. cfa.gmu.edu. sales price (seller determined) and present Built to Amaze Circus, beginning April 9 at George the UMW receives 40% to support Mason University’s Patriot Center. Local and National charities. Become ONGOING Photos by David A. Beloff/Courtesy of Virginia Opera a seller, call 703-971-7957 or email yard sale from 4-8 p.m. March 28 in Lakehaven Drive, Burke, Accotink Workhouse Farmers Market. 3-6 [email protected] by the Green Acres Center cafeteria: Unitarian Universalist Church. Join p.m., at the Workhouse, 9601 Ox March 23. children’s clothes, toys, bikes, poets from around our region as they Road, Lorton. Every Thursday on the First Robotics Competition Greater computers, furniture and household compete for prize money; hosted by quad is a producer-only market for D.C. Regional. 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. linens. Please, no adult-size clothing by Regie Cabico and Sarah D. Lawson discerning shoppers featuring locally Patriot Center, George Mason or cloth covered sofas. Proceeds will from Busboys and Poets. grown fruits and vegetables, locally ‘Carmen’ Comes to Area University, 4400 University Drive, benefit the city’s 2014 Independence www.accotinkuuc.org or 703-503- raised meats and poultry and local Fairfax. Student-built remote Day celebration to be held July 4. For 4579. foods from breads to salsas and controlled robots face off in a two-day information, call 703-385-7949. sausages. www.smartmarkets.org. tournament at GMU’s Patriot Center. First Fridays at the Clifton Art Virginia Opera Winners qualify for World Robotics SUNDAY/ APRIL 6 Guild. 6-9 p.m. at Clifton Wine Shop, Championship. www.dc-first.org SUNDAY/MARCH 30 Potomac Ensemble. 4 p.m., 6509 7145 C Main St., Clifton. Enjoy a wine brings “Carmen” to Jeffrey Siegel, “The Romantic Sydenstricker Road, Burke, St. tasting and mix and mingle with the Music of Chopin.” 7 p.m., George Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Enjoy a Art Guild of Clifton artists. 703-830- SATURDAY/MARCH 29 Mason University Center for the Arts, group of 10 of the DC area’s finest 1480 or www.artguildofclifton.org/. Center for the Arts. Signature English Tea. 2 - 4 p.m. 4400 University Drive, MS 2F5, professional singers, in a program of Saturday Farmers Market. 8 a.m.-1 Pohick Church, 9301 Richmond Hwy., Fairfax. The acclaimed pianist great music for 5-part choir. p.m., at the parking lot at the Lorton, VA, at corner of U.S. 1 & performs Chopin’s compositions as [email protected]. intersection of West and Main Streets By David Siegel Telegraph Road, Lorton. Colonial part of his Keyboard Conversations In the Bunker with the Vice behind Wells Fargo Bank in Fairfax. The Connection Living History Program, 18th century series. $19-38, Mason ID permits 1 President on 9/11. 7 p.m. Stacy Every Saturday there is fresh produce, music by flautist and harpsichordist. free ticket on March 18. cfa.gmu.edu. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 goods and wares at the market. Silent auction. Golden Dove Gift Shop “The Adventures of Pinocchio’s Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. The lecture [email protected] or irginia Opera, the Offi- open noon- 1:45 p.m. Docent-led Sister.” 2 p.m., at 3740 Old Lee is free and open to all. Book signing www.FairfaxSaturdayMarket.com. cial Opera Company of tours of church begin 1 p.m. Cost Hwy, Fairfax, Stacy C. Sherwood and refreshments. Sunday Farmers Market. 10 a.m.-2 the Commonwealth of $40.00 for adults, $25.00 for children Center. This rousing Education Show Seminar: “Feeding Hungry Roses.” p.m., at the parking lot at the V age 12 and under. 703-497-5927 or by Glenn Winters follows the journey 2-4 p.m. Merrifield Garden Center, intersection of West and Main Streets Virginia, will present [email protected]. of Pinocchietta as she meets many 12101 Lee Highway, Fairfax. Learn behind Wells Fargo Bank in Fairfax. Georges Bizet’s sultry tragedy Spring Bazaar. 8 a.m. -1 p.m. madcap opera characters who teach how to feed your roses for beautiful Every Saturday there is fresh produce, Sydenstricker United Methodist her about opera, singing, language blooms. goods and wares at the market. about opera’s most famous femme Church, 8508 Hooes Road, and culture. 866.673.7282 or [email protected] or fatale, “Carmen.” The opera has Springfield. Come shop from WWW.VAOPERA.ORG www.FairfaxSundayMarket.com. enthralled audiences for more than outstanding local artists and artisans, Northern Virginia Jewish Film TUESDAY/APRIL 8 Fairfax Mosaic Wednesday Night crafters, vintage & collectible dealers Festival. 8900 Little River Turnpike Slam Poetry Cafe. 6-8 p.m. Richard Freshbikes Rides. 6:30 p.m., at a century and is one of the most and consultants representing a wide Fairfax, The Jewish Community Byrd Library, 7250 Commerce Street, Fairfax Mosaic Freshbikes, 2910 popular. “Carmen” follows Don variety of products. Our youth will be Center of Northern Virginia. Eleven Springfield. Slam poetry is the art of District Ave., Fairfax. Weekly bike Jos and his ill-fated obsession having a car wash! Homemade bake contemporary Jewish-themed and/or performance poetry. Performers, rides leave from the Fairfax Mosaic goods will be featured. Israeli-made feature films will provide come share your original or store, the newest addition to the with the alluring Carmen who www.sydenstrickerumc.org the heart, history, humor and hope. previously published pieces. Email Freshbikes family of stores in the tosses him aside for another man Indoor Yard Sale. 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. www.jccnvarts.org. [email protected] with your area. www.freshbikescycling.com. leading to jealous rage. Green Acres Center, 4401 Sideburn name and poem. Join Jewish War Veterans of the Road, Fairfax. The Independence Day USA. The Burke Post E 100 at 5712 “At the Center for the Arts, we Celebration Committee will host a SATURDAY/ APRIL 5 WEDNESDAY/APRIL 9 - Walnut Wood, Burke, invites Jewish strive to offer programming that yard sale and seeks donated items. In the Name of Love: A Jazz SUNDAY/APRIL 20 veterans and service members to join. appeals to our patrons’ diverse ar- These items will be accepted for the Poetry Slam. 7-10 p.m., 10125 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & 703-209-5925. tistic tastes. Bizet’s ‘Carmen’ is be- loved by opera enthusiasts, and Send notes to the Connection at [email protected] or call 703-778-9416. The deadline for submissions is even those who are new to the Bulletin Board the Friday prior to publication. Dated announcements should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event. genre are familiar with the music,” said Jill Laiacona, George Mason Burke Historical Society Meeting. Virginia community sites. Practices muscles for injury prevention. $10. SATURDAY/MARCH 29 4:30 p.m. Fellowship Hall at Abiding are Wednesdays 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 703-667-9800. University, Public and Media Rela- Dog Adoption. 12-3 p.m. PETCO, Presence Lutheran Church, 6304 Lee in Burke. Contact Gayle Parsons, 703- American Red Cross CPR, First tions Coordinator. “One of its most Greenbriar Towncenter, 13053 Lee Chapel Road, Burke. We’ll mark the 644-4485 or email Aid and AED. Various times, at famous arias, ‘Habanera,’ has been Jackson Memorial Highway, end of winter with a look back at the [email protected]. 2720 State Route 699, Suite 200, Fairfax. 703-817-9444 or for more Knickerbocker Snowstorm of 1922, as Online Scavenger Hunt. Visit Fairfax Fairfax. One-year certification, parodied countless times, includ- info. visit hart90.org presented by Kevin Ambrose. tasks those interested in becoming digital or print materials and ing by The Muppets and The Marx “citizen ambassadors” to the county continued education on Mondays Brothers. We’re thrilled that Vir- (those informed on fun, creative through Thursday and Saturday. SUNDAY/MARCH 30 SATURDAY/ APRIL 5 weekend outings in the area) to find $70-110. www.redcrossnca.org. ginia Opera chose this work as the Del. Eileen Dog Adoption. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., two Fairfax County Ambassador icons Dementia Care Givers Support finale for its 39th season.” Filler-Corn Greenbriar Towncenter, 13053 Lee hidden throughout the fxva.com Groups. Various times, at Lord of

“The team that Virginia Opera Ginger Costa-Jackson as Carmen in Virginia Opera’s pro- (41st District - Contributed Jackson Memorial Hwy., Fairfax. website in order to join the Life Lutheran Church, 5114 Burke, Fairfax, Homeless Animals Rescue Team hosts ambassador team; those who find all Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. The brings to lead ‘Carmen’ has pro- duction of “Carmen.” Fairfax Station, this dog adoption event at PETCO. five hidden pins will receive a groups are for those caring for duced incredible opera both on our Springfield) will 703-817-9444 or hart90.org complimentary gift. www.fxva.com/ someone with dementia or for stage and in opera houses across hold March online-ambassador. those interested in learning more Where and When office hours at Senior Fall Prevention Classes. about providing care giving to a the world,” said Russell P. Allen, Saxbys Coffee ONGOING 1:30-2:30 p.m., at the Woodlands person with a disorder that affects president and CEO of Virginia Op- Virginia Opera’s “Carmen” at the George Mason University Center for the Arts, (10637 Braddock Singers Wanted for the Retirement Community, 4320 Forest memory and cognition and may era. “Audiences can expect a pro- 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Performances are Friday, April 11 at 8 p.m. and Rd, Fairfax), 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Celebration Singers. The women’s Hill Drive, Fairfax. Tuesday and/or impact behavior and physical Sunday, April 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets are Friday: $44-$86; Sunday: $48-$98. Youth No appointment necessary. Please show choir is interested in new talent Thursday classes in a heated pool abilities. 703-451-8626 or duction of ‘Carmen’ that will not Discount: tickets are half price for youth through grade 12. Call 888-945-2468 or drop by. to perform at various Northern designed to work on balance and core [email protected]. disappoint.” visit cfa.gmu.edu 10 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 11 Spring Fun 2014 DR. GENE SWEETNAM DR. GRACE CHANG OPTOMETRISTS Virginia Bluebells: Native Spring Beauty Carpets of bluebells coming soon to a park near you.

By Donald Sweig

he Virginia Bluebells are coming! T In early Spring, these beautiful na- tive wildflowers will burst into bloom profusely throughout TWO much of the Washington area. CONVENIENT Botanically named Mertensia LOCATIONS virginica, one of a number of species of Mertensia, Virginia • Family & Pediatric Vision Care Bluebells can be found in many • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Treatment of Eye Diseases moist, woodland areas, espe- • 21 years Naval Service, 6 years Active Duty cially along streams and rivers. • Laser Vision Consultants • Over a thousand frames in stock Depending on the weather, • We carry all major brands of contact lenses • In-house lab they first appear in early April as light pink buds, and then Most Insurances Accepted: open into several shades of pink, Classic Virginia Bluebells in full bloom. There are many Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Care First, Medicare, Tricare In-network blue and even white. In some local places to enjoy these native Virginia wildflowers, Doctor, Vision One Discount, Avesis, Aetna HMO/PPO/POS, PHCS, areas along the local rivers they including Riverbend Park in Great Falls, Bull Run Park in VSP® Network Doctor, EyeMed Vision Care, United Healthcare, VA Medicaid bloom in stunning profusion, Centreville and the C&O National HIstorical Park in WE WELCOME YOUR DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION creating a veritable carpet of Potomac. See sidebar. color. Photos by Donald Sweig 5204A Rolling Rd. 8951 Ox Rd., Suite 100 After perhaps ten-days to two weeks, the blossoms Burke Professional Center Shoppes at Lorton Valley will fade and not appear again until the following Burke, VA 22015 Lorton, VA 22079 Spring. They are not difficult to find in season and 703-425-2000 703-493-9910 most wildflower enthusiasts have a favorite Bluebell www.drsweetnam.com • www.sightforvision.com haunt. They are easy to find along the floodplain of the Potomac River at Turkey Run Park, a National Park Service site, on the George Washington Memorial Parkway, just inside the beltway in McLean. There are also large and popular stands of Blue- bells at the Bull Run Regional Park, a Northern Vir- ginia Regional Park Authority site. Look for them also at Great Falls National Park in SUNDAY 4/6/14 10001 Manor Place OPEN Virginia, or along the C&O Canal in Potomac. Take Some Bluebells flower in delicate shades Fairfax, VA 22032 your binoculars; bluebells often grow on the islands of pink and light blue. There are many $893,000 in the middle of the river. local places to enjoy these native Virginia Classic colonial conveniently located off Bluebells grow best, and most profusely, in the wildflowers, including Riverbend Park in of Braddock Rd. in the sandy soils of the floodplain along the local rivers. Great Falls, Bull Run Park in Centreville Woodson High School A particularly stunning and easily accessible stand and the C&O National Historical Park in District. Designed for entertaining, the home of Bluebells is in Fairfax County’s Riverbend Park, Potomac. See sidebar. features a separate liv- where one can walk the paths both up and down ing room and dining river from the visitor center with copious bluebells bells; they are very fragile and will soon wither if room with bay window, gourmet kitchen with large center island, huge family room with side deck, on both sides of the path. It’s sight to behold. One plucked. two sets of stairs to the upper level, four bedrooms including two master might also notice other Spring wildflowers along If you are interested in growing these flowers your- suites, four full baths, and full finished lower level. Vacant and ready for a the various trails, along the river floodplains and self, they like moist to wet soil in part or mostly new occupant. in the nearby woods. shaded areas, according to the Master Gardeners of 10213 SUNDAY 4/13/14 OPEN The annual appearance of the Virginia Bluebells is Northern Virginia: “Best planted at the edge of a Commonwealth a treat too sweet to miss. Take your camera to pre- woodland path or by a shaded pond.” Bluebells ap- Blvd. serve the memory, but please don’t pick the wild blue- pear to be both deer and rabbit resistant. Fairfax, VA $557,000 Four level Regent model in Kings Park West. Where to Look for Virginia Bluebells Easy walk to Robinson Try these public places for reliable stands of Bluebells. De- (301) 582-0813 High School. Home fea- pending on the weather, early to mid-April is the best time http://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm tures gleaming hard- to find them in full bloom. wood floors, three full Look for the bluebells on the floodplain between the canal baths that have been Turkey Run Park, National Park Service, and the river or on the islands in the river. recently remodeled, four bedrooms, and full finished basement. Level George Washington Memorial Parkway backyard with access from the family room. Early occupancy available. http://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/turkeyrun.htm Riverbend Park, Fairfax County Park Authority, Sales and Property Management 8700 Potomac Hills St, Great Falls Great Falls National Park, 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, (703) 759-9018 Residential Property Management VA 22102 (703) 285-2965 http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend-park/ http://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm Association Management Riverbend is a particularly easy place to see a stunning dis- Bull Run Regional Park, Northern Virginia Regional Park play of Bluebells. The park is open every day, admission is 703-239-1234 Authority, 7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121 free. Try calling the park to check when the bluebells are in [email protected] (703) 631-0550 full bloom. Visitor is center closed on Tuesdays. “Spring is 5631-I Burke Centre Parkway • Suite I https://www.nvrpa.org/park/bull_run wildflower time. Many species of spring ephemerals grace the river banks from March to June. Take a walk between carpets Burke, VA 22015 C&O Canal National Historic Park, of Virginia Bluebells and Spring Beauties, and look for Wild 11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac Ginger, Dutchman’s Breeches and Trout Lilies.” 12 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Spring Fun 2014 Photos by

Janelle Germanos

/The Connection

Flight Trampoline Park, which just opened off of Fullerton Road in Dylan of Lorton enjoys some time on a trampoline at Flight Trampo- Springfield, is over 13,000 square feet of trampolines. line Park in Springfield. Flight Trampoline Park Opens in Springfield Kids and adults welcome for spring fun. Coast locations. in half hour, hour and two hour sessions, “Trampoline parks are fairly new to the Flight Trampoline Park is available for birth- By Janelle Germanos trampolines, the new facility is fun for kids East Coast,” Estes said. day parties, corporate events, fundraisers The Connection and adults. Springfield was an optimal location for and sleepovers. The park just opened three weeks ago and the Washington, D.C. area location because LivingSocial and Groupon are also offer- he area surrounding Interstate 95 already has generated a strong community it has great demographics, and Estes says ing deals tickets to Flight Trampoline Park. Toff of Fullerton Road in Springfield interest. there isn’t a lot of competition in the area Although Estes said Flight Trampoline isn’t exactly known for a variety of “We have almost 10,000 Facebook fans,” in terms of trampoline parks. Park targets kids, it is a fun place for adults activities for fun. said Dusten Estes, co-owner of Flight Tram- Estes said the Springfield location is do- as well. Filled with warehouses and industrial poline Park. ing pretty well, and will be launching fit- Weekends are the busiest times at Flight parks, the area has been in need of a fun Estes, along with Cameron Gentry and ness classes in a couple weeks on April 5. Trampoline Park, although the Springfield activity for the whole family for some time Dustin Ward, opened the first Flight Tram- “The fitness classes include boot camp, location is open seven days a week. now. poline Park location in Connecticut. Estes high intensity and high calorie burning More locations along the East Coast, in- That’s where Flight Trampoline Park said that the location was successful, so they classes,” Estes said. cluding one in Chantilly, will be opening comes in. With over 13,000 square feet of decided to look into opening more East In addition to open jump, which is priced soon.

#1 Weichert Agent in Burke & Fairfax Station Lancaster Farm Fresh COMING Cooperative Call Kathleen CT SOON today and Community Supported Agriculture CONTRA ask for a PENDING (CSA) is partnering with copy of her “Satisfied Great Harvest Bread Company Client List” Sign up by April 25th! Burke $414,950 Fairfax Station $594,950 Walk to School & Shopping Private 1/2 Acre Sunny home w/ large fenced yard Charming stucco Cape Cod w/3-story w/deck, 4BR upstairs, 2 full updated addition, oversized side-load 2-car GAR, baths, remodeled kitchen w/ granite private 1/2 acre, 4 huge BR, 5 full baths, cntrs, tile floor & new cabinets, hrdwd flrs, finished bsmt, 3,000+ sq ft, familyrm off kitchen, dramatic LVRM renovated kit & baths, master suite w/ w/ vaulted clngs, new windows 2014, cathedral ceilings + sitting rm, newer fresh paint, newer vinyl siding roof, garage doors & windows. Walk to and more. Burke Centre shopping center & school. CONTRACT CT CT PENDING

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Centreville/Centre Ridge $334,950 Fairfax Sta/South Run $799,950 Springfield/Belmead So. Run $924,950 Multiple Offers Received Remodeled Kitchen & Baths Multiple Offers Received Immac TH backing to common area w/ Mint condition col w/ 5BR,3.5BA, dramatic Stunning Col w/ dramatic 2-story foyer eat-in kit w/ granite cntrs, SS appliances fmlyrm w/ cathedral clngs, remodeled kit w/ & Lvrm, library, lovely fmly rm w/ stone & walk-in pantry, fin walkout bsmt w/ cherry cabs, tile splash, granite cntrs & fireplace & custom built-ins, stone patio, full bath, deck, hot tub, fenced yard, Koi walk-in pantry, fin walkout bsmt, deck, composite deck, amazing fin walk-up pond, dramatic MBR w/ vaulted ceilings quality new windows, fresh paint, fabulous bsmt w/ huge bar w/ granite counters, & walk-in closet, MBA w/ granite cntrs, remodeled MBA w/ double sinks w/ granite den/5thBR, bath, exercise rm + rec rm, new gas furnace, A/C & water htr, fresh cntrs & oversized tub & shower, sunny MBR w/ tray ceiling & sitting rm & eat- paint & more. library, new HVAC & much more. in kitchen w/ maple cabinets & granite. Kathleen Quintarelli #1 Weichert Realtor Burke/Fairfax Station 703-862-8808 Licensed Realtor 24 Years See Interior Photos at: NVAR Lifetime Top Producer www.kathleenhomes.com • [email protected] www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 13 News Budget Competition

From Page 3 “We like to say we like balanced development in the county,” said Budget Director Richard Stephenson. $1.006 for every $100 of assessed value, which in- “But that can be good or bad depending on where cludes the base rate of $0.993 and the county-wide we are in the cycle.” sanitary district rate of $0.013 for stormwater man- agement. Last month, members of the Arlington IN ALEXANDRIA, the city manager has proposed a County Board voted to advertise no increase in the tax rate of $1.038 for every $100 of assessed value. rate, which means elected officials must find a way Earlier this month, City Council members voted to to balance the budget using the increase in property advertise a tax rate that’s half a cent higher. That tax values. Fortunately for Arlington, property values in rate of $1.043 for every $100 of assessed value would the county have been some of the strongest in the raise the average residential property tax bill by $230. region. Thats’ a 7 percent increase compared to last year. “The gap between funding for ongoing county ser- “I did not run to raise property taxes,” said Coun- vices and revenues that I predicted in the fall was cilwoman Allison Silberberg. “But we have some eliminated by our higher-than-anticipated real es- growing needs.” tate assessments,” said County Manager Barbara Unlike Arlington, Alexandria’s tax revenues lean Donnellan. “But we must still work to achieve effi- heavily toward residential properties. Almost 33 per- ciencies and continue to invest in our community.” cent of the city’s revenues come from residential prop- In Arlington, unlike Alexandria, the tax base is split erty taxpayers, while commercial property taxpayers evenly between residential property and commer- contribute only 25 percent of the tax base. That means cial property. County budget officials say that’s a the average single-family house, which increased blessing and a curse. When residential values de- about 3 percent this year, is shouldering a dispropor- clined during the recession, jurisdictions that were tionate amount of the burden for the increased cost heavily reliant on them suffered. But commercial of government in Alexandria. “We have an 18 per- properties have been sluggish in the wake of seques- cent vacancy rate that’s devaluing the commercial tration and shutdown because the local economy is side of the ledger,” said Alexandria Budget Director so heavily tied to the fate of the federal government. Nelsie Smith. “If we had a healthier commercial base That means that Arlington finds itself balanced be- that wasn’t contributing to an 18 percent vacancy tween two different markets instead of tied to the rate, we would not have seen the 0.68 percent growth fate of one. from last year to this year.” Faith Notes

From Page 5 services at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. plus OMMUNITIES OF ORSHIP St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Sunday School classes for all ages at C W Fairfax Baptist Temple, at the Church, 6720 Union Mill Road, Clifton, 9:45 a.m. Childcare is available 8:15 corner of Fairfax County Parkway and conducts Sunday masses at 7:30 a.m., a.m.-12:15 p.m. There will be a Terry Burke Lake Roads, holds a bible study 8:45 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. It Hall Concert on Saturday, April 14 at 4 fellowship at 9 a.m. Sundays followed also offers a Saturday vigil at 5:30 p.m. p.m. with old spirituals, classic hymns, by a 10 a.m. worship service. Nursery and a Thursday Latin mass at 7 p.m. southern gospel favorites and more. care and children’s church also pro- 703-817-1770 or www.st-andrew.org. 703-971-5151 or vided. 6401 Missionary Lane, Fairfax [email protected] or Station, 703-323-8100 or Prince of Peace Lutheran www.franconiaumc.org. www.fbtministries.org. Church, 8304 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, offers casual worship ser- RCIA (Rite of Christian Initia- The Guhyasamaja Buddhist vices on Saturday evenings at 5:30 p.m. tion of Adults) is for people interested Center, 10875 Main St., Fairfax City featuring contemporary music. More in becoming Catholic or learning about provides free classes to both newcomers traditional services take place on Sun- the Catholic Church. A group meets at and advanced practitioners of Tibetan day mornings at 8:15 and 11 a.m. 7:30 p.m. on July 6 and 20 at St. Leo the Buddhism. The center emphasizes work- Sunday School is from 9:45-10:45 a.m. Great Catholic Church, 3700 Old Lee ing with the mind and learning how to for children and adults. The church also Highway, Fairfax. A group will begin understand the workings of the mind, offers discussion groups for adults. 703- meeting every Wednesday starting Sep- overcoming innner causes of suffering, 451-5855 or www.poplc.org. tember. Sessions are in the Old Parish while cultivating causes of happiness. Hall. All are welcome. Contact Carolyn Under the direction of Lama Zopa Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, Smith at 703-273-5369 or Rinpoche, the center is a place of study, 8336 Carrleigh Parkway in Springfield, [email protected]. contemplation and meditation. Visit supports a Mothers of Preschoolers http://www.guhyasamaja.org for more (MOPS) program on the first and third The Jewish Social Services information. Wednesday of each month. Meetings are Agency (JSSA) offers a wide variety of 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the church. All moth- support groups for those with emo- Lord of Life Lutheran offers ser- ers and children are welcome. The tional, social, and physical challenges. vices at two locations, in Fairfax at 5114 program provides mothers an opportu- www.jssa.org/growth-learning. Twinbrook Road and in Clifton at 13421 nity to get to know other mothers Twin Lakes Drive. Services in Fairfax are through discussions and craft activities. Metropolitan Community held on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sun- Register. 703-451-5320. Church of Northern Virginia, 10383 days at 8:30 and 10 a.m. Services in Democracy Lane in Fairfax, presents Clifton are held on Sundays at 8:15 and JCCNV Mother’s Circle pro- worship services on Sundays at 9 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 703-323-9500 or gram, for women who are not Jewish and 11 a.m. and choir practice (open to Jubilee 9800 Old Keene Mill Rd. www.Lordoflifeva.org. but are raising Jewish children. Free all) on Tuesdays at 7:15 p.m. Christian Center 703-455-7041 education in Jewish rituals, practices www.mccnova.com or 703-691-0930. “Experience the Difference” First Baptist Church of Spring- and values, while respecting the Realtime Worship - Sunday 8:45 & 11 AM Sunday School field offers Sunday school at 9:15 a.m., participant’s choice to retain her own Church of the Nativity offers a Sunday School 10:10 AM 9:15 AM followed by a 10:30 a.m. worship ser- religious identity. Jewish Community free general bereavement support group Sunday Evening - Realtime Worship vice at 7300 Gary St., Springfield. Center of Northern Virginia, 8900 Little open to all adults on the first and third & Youth 6 PM Worship Service 703-451-1500 or River Turnpike in Fairfax. Contact Thursday of each month 7:30-9 p.m. Family Night - Wednesday 7:15 PM www.fbcspringfield.org. Laurie Albert, 703-537-3064 or The church is located at 6400 Nativity Call for our Home Life Group schedule 10:30 AM visit our website: www.jccag.org HYPERLINKLane, Burke. Call 703-455-2400, ext. 17. 4650 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax Clifton Presbyterian Church, “mailto:[email protected]” Bill Frasnelli, PASTOR 703-383-1170 www.calvaryfamily.com 12748 Richards Lane, Clifton, offers [email protected]. Arabic Bible Baptist Church is “Continuing the ministry of Sunday worship services at 8:30 a.m. located at 6428 Ox Road in Fairfax Sta- To Advertise Your Community Christ on earth” and 11 a.m. Nursery care is provided. Franconia United Methodist tion. Services are on Saturdays at 6:30 of Worship, Call 703-778-9418 Christian education for all ages is at Church, 6037 Franconia Road, Alexan- p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. Pastor: 9:45 a.m. 703-830-3175. dria, offers traditional Sunday church Wissam Jamil. Call 703-273-5599. 14 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Photos by Donna Manz/The Connection I don’t News know the key to suc- cess, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody. —Bill Cosby

BURKE PROFESSIONAL PLAZA The Corner of Rt. 123 (Ox Rd.) & Burke Centre Pkwy.

State delegates Mark Keam (D-35), Patrick Hope (D-47) and David Bulova (D-37) State Senator Barbara Favola (D-31) lis- during the March 22 social progress tens to her colleagues as each had a turn presentation in Vienna hosted by SALT. to speak. In Search of ‘Game Changing’ Ideas

said. “My bill would make the process Local legislators reflect on social consistent for all absentee ballots, regard- less of from where they were mailed. issues addressed by Virginia “My bill passed both the House and Senate with little opposition, which is General Assembly in 2014. pleasantly surprising since this is one of the very few bills introduced by a t a presentation hosted Democrat to allow more votes to by SALT [Social Action be counted, that has passed the Met Life, Delta, BCBS/Carefirst ALinking Together) on conservative Republican House of and United Concordia Provider March 22, more than Delegates.” 50 community activists gathered Http://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/ Weekdays • Saturdays • Evenings to hear local legislators offer brief legp604.exe?141+sum+HB838 24 Hour Emergency Care comments on social progress in the includes the language which, es- Commonwealth of Virginia’s 2014 sentially, states that an absentee General Assembly session. The ballot will not be voided solely 5631-B Burke Centre Parkway presentation was hosted at Ameri- because the inner envelope con- Burke, VA 22015 can Legion 180. taining the voted ballot is imper- State senators Janet Howell (D- fectly sealed so long as the outside 4600 John Marr Dr., Suite #401 32), Barbara Favola (D-31) and envelope containing the ballot Annandale, VA 22003 Dick Saslaw (D-35), and state del- envelope is sealed, Keam said. egates Mark Keam (D-35), Ken 8998-E Lorton Station Blvd. Plum (D-36), David Bulova (D- KEYNOTE SPEAKER Richard E. Lorton, VA 22079 37), Alfonzo Lopez D-49), Marcus Rubenstein, professor of conflict Simon (D-53), and Patrick Hope resolution and public affairs at • Free Initial Exam sat on the panel. Del. Ken Plum (D-36) George Mason University, spoke • 40+ Years Experience remarked he had intro- on the need for “game-changing” LEGISLATORS ON THE duced a redistricting bill ideas to resolve income inequal- • Two Board Certified Orthodontists PANEL, all Democrats, were in- back in 1982. ity in Virginia, suggesting that • In Network Providers for MetLife, vited to speak for five minutes university researchers come to- Delta Dental & United Concordia each on bills and issues confronting the General As- gether statewide to brainstorm ideas that address the sembly and the Commonwealth. Few had time to issue. He recommended, also, a state commission get past introductory remarks and few details on the addressing the causes of poverty. General Assembly emerged. “This legislative session created a new opportu- Keam, however, addressed a problem confronted nity for people to take a fresh look at issues that have by military personnel not deployed overseas when been pending for a long time, such as income in- 703-750-9393 submitting absentee ballots. Keam’s House Bill 838 equality and what the state is doing on behalf of www.dutson-ellisortho.com would address an inconsistency in the policies fol- vulnerable citizens,” Keam said in a subsequent lowed by the Virginia State Board of Elections. Be- phone conversation. “However, these issues ended To advertise, please call cause of differences in various federal and state elec- up with the same resutl this year because of the same tion laws, absentee ballots mailed in from overseas partisan agenda that stalled things in years past.” Steve Hogan at 703-778-9418 by U.S. military men and women are accepted by The morning presentation was co-sponsored by election officials even if the inside envelope that con- SALT, Virginians for Alternatives to the Death Pen- tains the ballot is not fully sealed. alty [VADP}, Citizens United for Rehabilitatioin for Find us on Facebook and become a fan! “On the other hand, an absentee ballot mailed from Errants –VA [CURE], and Virginia Coalition of Latino www.Facebook.com/connectionnewspapers within Virginia with the same imperfection on the Organizations [VACOLAO]. inside envelope is rejected by election officials,” Keam —Donna Manz www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 15 Burke Connection Sports Editor Jon Roetman Sports 703-224-3015 or [email protected] East All-Stars Beat West in Suburban Classic West Springfield’s “My heart was racing, Berglund wins I don’t know why. I was 3-point shootout. pretty nervous. It was By Jon Roetman fun. I felt like I was in The Connection the NBA all-star unday’s 10th Suburban Classic

Photos Sterbutzel/The Connection by Craig [shootout]. My legs got started with a 3-point shootout — S the perfect competition for West tired in the second Springfield senior Amy Berglund to show off her sharpshooting skills. round, that’s why my After posting the top score of the first round (19), Berglund won the event with a score dropped so much, score of 9 in the finals, beating McLean’s Cami Prock, Centreville’s Jenna Green and but it was fun.” Osbourn’s Bailey Dufrene. — West Springfield Berglund, who scored more than 1,000 senior Amy Berglund points in her high school career, knocked down countless 3-pointers in her four years to Stonewall Jackson in the region semifi- as a Spartan, but she said performing in nals on Feb. 27, Kerrigan transitioned to her front of a small crowd in a quiet Oakton primary sport of lacrosse, which she will High School gym was more nerve-wrack- play at Ohio State University. On Sunday, ing than playing in a big game. she was back on the hardwood as a mem- “My heart was racing, I don’t know why,” West Springfield senior and East all-star Amy Berglund won the 3-point ber of the West all-stars. Berglund said. “I was pretty nervous. It was shootout at the 10th Suburban Classic on March 23 at Oakton High “It was definitely a lot of fun playing with fun. I felt like I was in the NBA all-star School and scored 10 points during the main event. the best players in the region,” Kerrigan [shootout]. My legs got tired in the second said. “It’s definitely a little hard because I round, that’s why my score dropped so haven’t touched a basketball in three weeks. much, but it was fun.” It was fun. Berglund’s 3-point shootout title preceded It was a great experience. I got to play the afternoon’s main event: the East-West with a lot of my close friends. It was a great all-star game. Berglund, who plans to play way to end my high school career.” for University of Northwestern St. Paul next Kerrigan scored six points, played aggres- season, scored 10 points and helped the East sive defense and got to play for Coach Stone all-stars beat the West 78-64 on March 23. one more time. “It was fun,” Stone said of coaching THE SUBURBAN CLASSIC featured some Kerrigan in the all-star game. “She’s just a of the top seniors from the 6A North and workhorse. You don’t really see many of 5A North regions. The Northern Virginia those. … I turned to the girls on the bench Women’s Basketball Coaches Association and I’m like, ‘I would hate for her to have sponsored the event and helped raise schol- to guard me.’ And they were like, ‘it’s aw- arship money for athletes. ful.’” The East all-stars, coached by Edison’s Samantha Porter (Mount Vernon/Chris- Dianne Lewis, led the West squad, coached topher Newport) and Amber Bryson (Lee) by Madison’s Kirsten Stone, by as many as each scored 10 points for the East all-stars. 22 points in the second half. Tykera Carter (T.C. Williams) finished with Prock finished with 12 points for the East nine points, while Michelle Noel and earned team MVP honors. Prock “took (Wakefield) and Tatianna Torres (Edison) a couple emotional days off” following each had eight. Caitlyn Mandela (Lake McLean’s season-ending loss to T.C. Will- Braddock) and De’Ja Jeanpierre (Mount iams in the opening round of the 6A North Lake Braddock senior Caitlyn Mandela scored four points for the East Vernon/Barton College) each had four regional tournament on Feb. 24. Following all-stars during the 10th Suburban Classic on March 23 at Oakton High points for the East, and Angie Schedler (T.C. her decompression session, Prock returned School. Williams) had three. to the gym to work on her game. While her time with the McLean girls’ basketball team Prock will attend the College of William ing.” FOR THE WEST ALL-STARS, was over, Prock’s hard work paid off a & Mary next year and is debating whether Jensen will continue her basketball ca- Centreville’s Green finished with 13 points month down the road with a strong perfor- to attempt to join the university’s basket- reer next season at the University of Mary and earned team MVP honors. Arnelle mance in the Suburban Classic. ball team as a walk on. Washington. On this afternoon, she got to Collins (Freedom) scored 12 points and The East all-stars led 34-30 late in the South Lakes guard Caitlin Jensen, a mem- play once again with South Lakes teammate Alexia Johnson (Broad Run) had nine. Kayla second quarter. Prock helped the East pull ber of the West all-stars, was another ath- Abby Rendle, and with girls she had com- Hix (Stonewall Jackson) and Bailey Dufrene away, though, scoring six points in the final lete who didn’t take long to return to the peted against during her high school career. (Osbourn) each had one point. Freedom’s 90 seconds of the first half as the team built gym after her high school season had ended. “It was a good experience,” Jensen said. Nicole Lubovich also competed for the West a 41-30 halftime advantage. Jensen said she went back to work the fol- “It was nice because I’ve played against team. Centreville’s Katie Blumer was a Prock agreed that the environment was a lowing day after the Seahawks lost to these people forever and now playing on member of the West all-stars but sat out due combination of competitiveness and enjoy- Centreville in the regional quarterfinals on the same team with [Centreville point to injury. ment. Feb. 25. guard] Jenna [Green] and all them, it’s a Lewis, who coached Edison to its second “It was definitely a great mixture of both,” On Sunday, Jensen led all scorers with 22 new feel, but I liked it.” consecutive region championship this sea- she said. “I know when I’m competing and points, including four 3-pointers. Madison senior Katie Kerrigan has also son, said allowing players to have fun was having fun at the same time, it’s a great feel- “I’ve been working really hard since the been working hard, but in a different sport. a priority, but she takes pride in winning. ing.” season ended,” Jensen said. “It’s a great feel- After the Madison girls’ basketball team lost “Absolutely,” she said. “I hate to lose.” 16 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com POTOMAC RIVER 3750 Jefferson Davis Hwy. 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101 Computers 101 Computers 21 Announcements 21 Announcements

“We are looking for mechanics that worked for Kmart HDI COMPUTER SOLUTIONS Auto in Springfield and Herndon, Virginia between 1970 and 1972. Please call 888-900-7034” JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995 ➣ Speed up Slow Computers 21 Announcements 21 Announcements ➣ Troubleshooting ➣ City of Fairfax Virus Removal PUBLIC NOTICE ➣ Computer Setup * The deadline to register to vote in the May 6, 2014 General Lake Braddock freshman third Election is Tuesday, April 14, 2014. Qualified City of Fairfax baseman Patty Maye Ohanian (571) 265-2038 residents may register at the General Registrar’s Office located [email protected] the Sisson House, 10455 Armstrong Street during normal made several plays to help keep business hours of 8:30am - 5pm (excluding holidays). Lake Braddock senior Ashley pitcher Ashley Flesch’s perfect Flesch pitched a one-hitter against game alive into the seventh inning 26 Antiques 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Bishop O’Connell on March 22. on March 22. We pay top $ for antique furniture and mid-century Danish/modern teak furniture, STERLING, MEN'S WATCHES, jewelry Lake Braddock and costume jewelry, paintings/art glass/clocks. Schefer Antiques @ 703-241-0790. Email:[email protected] Softball Beats O’Connell 28 Yard Sales the fact. But, oh well. We got the win, that’s Multi-Family Yard Sale Bruins pitcher Flesch all that matters.” March 29 from 9:00-2:00 Hayden Village Community Flesch, who earned honorable mention Rockpointe Court, Clifton tosses one-hitter all-state honors as a pitcher last season, threw seven innings, allowing one hit and against Knights. one unearned run. She struck out eight, By Jon Roetman walked none and hit one batter. Employers: The Connection While O’Connell struggled to get the bats 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Are your going, Lake Braddock jumped out to a 1-0 he Lake Braddock softball team re- lead in the first inning when junior first recruiting ads Tturns two all-state athletes from a baseman Amanda Hendrix, a first-team all- not working in 2013 group that captured the state selection last season, delivered an RBI program’s first district championship since double. The Bruins added what proved to other papers? 2001. be a pivotal insurance run in the bottom of If Saturday’s performance against Bishop the sixth, when junior center-fielder Jenna Try a better O’Connell, one of the premier programs in Edwards led off the inning with a single and, way to fill the Washington, D.C.-metro area, is any two batters later, sophomore left-fielder your indication, the Bruins have a chance to be Danielle Newman drove her in with an RBI employment even better in 2014. double. openings Lake Braddock senior pitcher Ashley Edwards finished 2-for-3. Flesch and jun- Flesch hurled a one-hitter and the Bruins ior second baseman Katherine Plescow each

North defeated O’Connell 2-1 on March 22 in had a single. Potomac Rockville 5 Burke. Last season, Lake Braddock finished 19- 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Potomac O’Connell, a private school located in 2 and defeated six-time defending Patriot Chevy Great Bethesda Falls Chase Herndon Arlington, has won the last 10 Washington District champion South County for the Bru- Dulles Reston Airport 1 McLean Vienna Catholic Athletic Conference champion- ins’ first district title in more than a decade. Oakton 6 Arlington Washington, Chantilly 4 D.C. ships, yet Flesch had a perfect game going However, four days after beating the Stal- Centreville Fairfax North entering the seventh inning. She hit lions in the Patriot District championship Clifton Historic Burke Clifton Fairfax Springfield O’Connell leadoff batter Hayley Metcalf game, the Bruins lost to Centreville in the Station 3 2 with a 3-2 pitch, giving the Knights their opening round of the regional tournament. Laurel Hill first base runner of the afternoon. After re- Rumore said the Bruins entered regionals tiring the next two batters, Flesch surren- mentally drained after winning the district Target your best job • dered a single to O’Connell first baseman title. Flesch, a four-year varsity athlete, said candidates where Olivia Giaquinto, ending the no-hit bid. A Lake Braddock has a chance to be even bet- they live. Lake Braddock error on the play allowed a ter this year. “It was a great measuring stick • Reach readers in run to score and put the tying run in scor- for us, where we are, what we need to im- addition to those ing position for the Knights, but Flesch got prove,” Flesch said of beating O’Connell. “… who are currently 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements O’Connell pitcher Erin Sweeney to fly out That’s a big boost for the team, mentally. looking for a job. to left field to end the game. … Every year, we’ve gotten more and more • Proven readership. “[Flesch] started getting tired, I think, but talent and we just expect more out of each • Proven results. she held it together,” Lake Braddock head other. We’re expecting to get further and coach George Rumore said. “I didn’t want further every year.” to switch [pitchers] in the seventh because If Saturday’s win is any indication, the she had a no-hitter going.” Bruins have a shot to make that happen. After Flesch lost her perfect game, Lake “It’s a good win for us, especially under 703-917-6464 Braddock had an infield meeting near the the circumstances — nobody’s really been classified@connection pitcher’s circle to discuss strategy. Did Flesch [outside],” Rumore said. “This is only our newspapers.com struggle to bounce back? third time since tryouts started we’ve been Great Papers • Great Readers “No. I was just trying to get the win the out on a field, so it’s nice.” Great Results! whole time,” Flesch said. “I didn’t even re- Lake Braddock will travel to face South alize that I had a perfect game until after County at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 ❖ 19 # 1 in Virginia 703-425-8000

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20 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 27 - April 2, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com