Herndonherndonoak Hill

HerndonHerndonOak Hill

Page 8 Hornet Pride Highlights Herndon High Graduation News, Page 6

Classifieds, Page 10 Classifieds,

❖

Entertainment, Page 10

❖

Opinion, Page 4

The Herndon High School Class of 2017 toss their caps inin thethe airair atat thethe conclusionconclusion ofof theirtheir graduationgraduation ceremo-ceremo- nies held Monday evening, June 20. Guest speaker, NBC Channel 4 Anchor, Angie Goff urged the students Saying Goodbye toto gogo outsideoutside theirtheir comfortcomfort zoneszones andand notnot bebe afraidafraid toto To Oakton High trytry somethingsomething new,new, eveneven ifif thethe outcomeoutcome isis unsure.unsure. News, Page 7 Murder of Reston Teen: ‘A Deadly Case of Road Rage’ News, Page 3

Photo by Mercia Hobson/The Connection www.ConnectionNewspapers.comJune 21-27, 2017 online at www.connectionnewspapers.comOak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 ❖ 1 News

Boylan Named President, CEO of Chamber The Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced that John Boylan has been hired as its President and CEO, effective June 1, 2017. He is the suc- cessor in this position to Eileen Curtis, who retired after 23 years of service leading the John Photo courtesy of Assistance League Dulles Chamber. He has a Boylan 2017-18 Board of Directors, from left: Mary Spence, Lynn Barron, Kathy Jackson, Mary wealth of experience and Gronlund, Karen Smith, Pat Thompson, Susan Wickman, and Susan Hurt. knowledge both in the private and public arena with a principal focus in the government ar- ington area’s top lobbying Assistance League Installs New Board of Directors eas of defense and technology. firms. Of late, he has worked as Assistance League of Northern Virginia’s Swear- the newly-elected and re-elected Board members, He earned a BA from Fairfield Principal of Bridget Partners ing-In and Installation Ceremony of the 2017-18 including President Kathy Jackson, VP Philanthropic University and a MA from Cali- developing strategy, marketing Board of Directors was conducted on June 12 dur- Programs Lynn Barron, VP Membership Mary fornia State University as well and business development for ing the nonprofit’s annual chapter meeting. This Gronlund, VP Resource Development Karen Amster, as a Fellowship at Tuft’s Fletcher businesses in healthcare, de- year’s meeting was held at Oh George! Tables and Education Chairman Mary Spence, Secretary Susan School of Law and Diplomacy. fense, energy and infrastruc- Taphouse in Fairfax and offered an opportunity for Wickman, Treasurer Pat Thompson, PR Chairman Boylan retired from the U.S. Air ture. Boylan has also worked at member volunteers to join together to celebrate chap- Susan Hurt and appointed Parliamentarian Darlene Force after 20 years serving as Lockheed Martin in Business ter successes. Linda Shilts, president of Assistance Cooke. a KC-135 Navigator, as well as Development and as VP of Gov- League of Northern Virginia 2016-17, hosted the end Incoming President, Kathy Jackson, praised Shilts working in Geospacial Intelli- ernment Relations with River- of year event and expressed thanks to all members for her service to the nonprofit and recognized mem- gence and Political-Military Af- side Research, a $100 million for their dedication to the organization’s mission to bers for their commitment to those in need. fairs. not-for-profit. provide essential programs to underprivileged chil- Assistance League of Northern Virginia, a 501(c)(3) He was an Executive Vice John and his wife Ellen have dren in Northern Virginia. “We are all volunteers and organization, accepts financial and in-kind donations President of National Security three adult children, all living everyone contributes to the best of their ability. Thank throughout the year. To learn how you or your com- Group and Federal Marketing in Centreville, since 1993. you for giving back to our community,” said Shilts. pany can help transform lives and strengthen commu- Practice for Cassidy & Associ- For more information, visit Nomination Committee Chair Jeannine Boswell nity, contact Karen Amster at [email protected] ates, one of the Greater Wash- DullesChamber.org. administered the oath of office and congratulated or visit www.northernvirginia.assistanceleague.org.

2 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Herndon Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic News 703-778-9414 or [email protected]

Photos by Fallon Forbush/The Connection

In an act of solidarity, Isabel Membreno of Sterling, left, and Laura Fuents of Sterling join a group of nearly 40 community members who Rizwan Jaka, ADAMS Center chairman of the board, steps out of the showed up on Monday, June 19, to stand watch as Muslims enter the Sterling mosque to speak with community members on the sidewalk ADAMS Center mosque in Sterling for their evening Ramadan prayers. who gathered to show their support for the Muslim community. Murder of Reston Teen: ‘A Deadly Case of Road Rage’ A rainbow ap- ence. No evidence of hate pears above the “Law enforce- ADAMS Center ment will not crime; investigation mosque in Ster- know for sure un- ling as commu- til the investiga- continues. nity members tion uncovers all gather for of the facts in the By Fallon Forbush Ramadan case,” Bulova said. The Connection evening prayer “This is still an services on ongoing investiga- arwin Martinez Torres, 22, of Monday, June 19. Photo courtesy tion. While the Sterling was charged with kill- of FCPD police work to un- Ding 17-year-old Nabra Darwin Martinez cover the motive, Hassanen of Reston in what po- to police. it. The driver, later identified as Torres, was Torres, 22, of the fact remains lice are calling a deadly case of road rage, “It appears the suspect became so enraged taken into custody as a suspect, according Sterling. that any violent according to the Fairfax County Police De- over this traffic argument, that it escalated to police. murder is a sense- partment. into deadly violence,” Parker said. Around 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 18, the less and a hateful “There is nothing at this point to indicate Detectives close to the investigation were remains of a female were found in a pond act.” that this tragic case was a hate crime,” Julie unwilling to provide details about the ar- in between two office buildings on Ridgetop Though Muslim community members Parker, spokesperson for the FCPD said dur- gument that incited Torres to murder. Circle and the Fields at Cascades apart- were grateful for law enforcement’s swift ing a press conference on Monday, June 19. “No, there was no indication of racial slurs ments on Huntington Square in Sterling, ap- actions, in the wake of the FCPD’s press “No evidence has been recovered that shows or any kind of a back and forth, other than proximately 4 miles from the mosque. conference, they encouraged police to con- this was a hate crime. Nothing indicates that a verbal argument,” Lt. Bryan Holland of The Office of The Chief Medical Exam- tinue investigating the motive for the mur- this was motivated by race or by religion.” the FCPD’s Criminal Investigations Bureau iner of Virginia conducted an autopsy on der. Hassanen, a sophomore at South Lakes said during the press conference. “It was Monday, June 19, confirming the identity “We call on law enforcement to investi- High School, was reported missing on Sun- just an argument between a driver and a of the remains to be that of the missing gate all aspects of the motive,” said Rizwan day, June 18, around 4 a.m. near Dranesville bicyclist that was in the roadway and that’s Reston teenager, according to police. Jaka, ADAMS Center chairman of the board. Road and Woodson Road in Herndon, which all I want to go into at this point,” he added. The autopsy results showed Hassanen suf- “All angles of the motive must be investi- is in Fairfax County. Holland was also unwilling to divulge fered from blunt force trauma to the upper gated thoroughly. The perpetrator must be A group of as many as 15 teenagers were details about a second assault the victim body, according to police. prosecuted to the full extent of the law.” walking and riding bikes on Dranesville endured. Law enforcement intends to seek the Road after attending an overnight event for “There was an assault that occurred in TORRES IS BEING HELD without bail harshest punishment for Torres. Ramadan at a mosque in Sterling, which is Fairfax County and another assault that and police are not searching for other sus- “I can assure you that while justice will in Loudoun County. The teenagers were occurred in Loudoun,” he said. pects, according to Parker. not bring Nabra Hassanen back, justice will traveling from the All Dulles Area Muslim After Torres’s initial assault, he took Since police report that assaults occurred be done as the suspect in this brutal attack Society, known as the ADAMS Center, to a Hassanen in his car to a second location in both Fairfax and Loudoun counties, it is is in custody and will be prosecuted to the restaurant, according to police. nearby in Loudoun County, according to undetermined where the criminal case fullest extent of the law,” Lt. Col. Tom Ryan, As the teenagers were returning to the police. against Torres will be tried, according to FCPD deputy chief of police for administra- mosque from the restaurant, some were “At this point, we don’t want to disclose Holland.While police do not think Torres’s tion, said during the press conference. “I traveling on the sidewalk while others were [the location],” Holland said. motive for the murder was bias-related, they say to our Muslim community and to our on the road, according to police. When Hassanen’s friends could not find will not know for sure until the investiga- Fairfax community as a whole, that the her when they regrouped at the mosque tion is complete. Fairfax County Police Department is com- DETECTIVES BELIEVE Torres came upon after the altercation with Torres, police were “If during the course of this ongoing, ac- mitted to your safety and that when crimes the group in a car when a teenaged boy on called to help, according to police. tive criminal investigation, information or such as this occur, our officers and detec- a bike in the group began arguing with the Patrol officers from the Fairfax County evidence surfaces that would indicate that tives take it personal.” driver. Torres then drove his car onto the Police Department and Loudoun County this was potentially hate motivated, at that curb as the group scattered. Witnesses say Sheriff’s Office immediately began a search. point, detectives would obviously take the DURING THE MONTH of Ramadan, a Torres caught up with the group in a nearby A police helicopter, K-9 teams and search investigation in that direction,” Parker said. prayerful time for Muslims to connect with parking lot and got out of his car armed and rescue teams searched for the missing God, family and community, the tragic situ- with a baseball bat. He then caught up to and injured teen, according to police. Sharon Bulova, chairman of the Fairfax ation was heightened, sending waves of Hassanen, whom police believe was on foot, While searching, one officer saw a car County Board of Supervisors, stepped in to shock and anger throughout the country. and assaulted her with the bat, according driving suspiciously in the area and stopped reiterate this fact during the press confer- See Murder, Page 11 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 ❖ 3 Opinion Oak Hill & Herndon

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Losing One of Our Own @HerndonConnect An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered Worst fear of any parent of a teenager, to homes and businesses. Published by losing a child to violence. Local Media Connection LLC 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 ater this week, when area Muslims cel- caught up with them a short time later in a ebrate the end of Ramadan, a month of nearby parking lot and got out of his car armed Free digital edition delivered to L your email box. Go to observance and daily fasting at Eid al- with a baseball bat and began chasing the connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe Fitr, the surrounding community grieves with group. Torres was able to catch Nabra. His them the loss of 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen anger over the encounter led to violence when of Reston. he hit Nabra with a baseball bat. Torres then NEWS DEPARTMENT: Nabra was among a group of teenagers who took Nabra with him in his car to a second lo- [email protected] were gathered at the All Dulles Area Muslim cation nearby in Loudoun County.” Kemal Kurspahic Society for an all-night event Nabra’s body was found in a Loudoun pond. Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 Editorial overnight Saturday during Torres is charged with her murder, which po- [email protected] Ramadan, and who were re- lice describe as a road rage incident rather than Fallon Forbush turning to the center after go- a hate crime, although more charges could Photo courtesy Khadijah Abdullah-Lardas Reporter ing to eat at a fast food restaurant. come later. Nabra Hassanen, 17, of Reston was a [email protected]

Fairfax County Police report: “At about 3:40 All parents who have successfully raised chil- sophomore at South Lakes High Ryan Dunn a.m. on Sunday, a group of as many as 15 teen- dren into a teenagers know fear for their safety School. Contributing Writer agers was walking and riding bikes on as they become more independent. We expect @rdunnmedia Dranesville Road. The group of teens had been our teens to be safe participating in events “Basically, the outpouring of support from Kyle Kincaid attending an overnight event at a mosque, the based at a house of worship. We expect our the Christian community, the Jewish commu- Editorial Assistant All Dulles Area Muslim Society or ADAMS Cen- teens to be safe from violence. Nabra’s death nity, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Bahá’í; everyone [email protected] ter, and had left to go to a fast food restaurant. means that all of us now have a diminished is comforting to us,” Rizwan Jaka of the

As they were returning to the mosque, some sense of safety; we all grieve with Nabra’s par- ADAMS Center told a Connection reporter. ADVERTISING: were on the sidewalk and others were on the ents, who lost their beautiful and beloved “People care so much and it means so much to For advertising information road itself. Detectives believe [Darwin Martinez daughter during Ramadan, on Father’s Day. We us.” [email protected] Torres, 22, of Sterling] came upon the teens share their horror at what their daughter suf- But we will all feel the loss of Nabra 703-778-9431 while he was driving. The investigation reveals fered. Hassanen, and a loss of sense of safety here, Debbie Funk a teenaged boy on a bike began arguing with Coming together in support of the Muslim in weeks and years to come. Display Advertising/National Sales Torres. Torres then drove his car onto the curb community in vigil, prayers and other support — Mary Kimm 703-778-9444 [email protected] as the group scattered. Witnesses say Torres has meant a great deal. [email protected] Andrea Smith Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 [email protected]

November General Elections David Griffin Marketing Assistant By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum and compare them with where Justin up for election this fall with a record number 703-778-9431 [email protected] State Delegate (D-36) Fairfax was strongest, you create a of contested elections. strong statewide team that will be Historically it has been difficult to recruit can- ith the conclusion of nearly impossible to defeat. Attorney didates to run for the House of Delegates, but Editor & Publisher the political party pri- General Mark Herring was not chal- events of the past year have brought forth more Mary Kimm W [email protected] maries last week the lenged in a primary and will be on the candidates than ever before. There was a record @MaryKimm general election is now teed up for ballot to succeed himself in Novem- number 27 seats where the candidates were Nov. 7. There were some surprises ber. There is no one-term limitation determined by the primary because there was Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon coming out of the Democratic and with the attorney general and the lieu- so much interest in running. Democrats will 703-549-0004 Republican primaries. Lt. Gov. tenant governor as there is with the certainly pick up seats in the House of Del- [email protected] Ralph Northam easily won the governor. egates getting closer to shifting or sharing Editor in Chief Democratic primary to be the nominee for gov- The greatest surprise of the primaries may power in that legislative body. Steven Mauren ernor even though there was discussion before- have been on the Republican side to pick a While I am uncontested in my race for the Managing Editor hand that polls indicated a tight race. Polling candidate for governor. Ed Gillespie who has House of Delegates you can still expect to see Kemal Kurspahic for primaries is notorious for being inaccurate been mentioned for years as the next Republi- me campaigning. It is a good way to stay in touch Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, because with a typically can governor of Virginia barely got through with constituents and to increase turn-out for Ali Khaligh light turnout the universe the primary with a shockingly strong showing the statewide elections. Expect a busy fall of Production Manager: Commentary of potential voters is almost by Corey Stewart who is known for his anti- campaigning leading up to the fall elections in Geovani Flores

impossible to determine. immigrant work in Prince William County and Virginia that will send a signal to the nation as Special Assistant to the Publisher Former one-term U.S. Rep. Tom Perriello has a for campaigning with a Confederate flag. He to the public’s reaction to national events. Jeanne Theismann great deal to offer and will hopefully stay on has the distinction of being so over the top [email protected] the scene for future opportunities. Although that he was fired by the Trump campaign. @TheismannMedia the term “establishment” was grossly over-used Turnout was especially low in the Republican in describing Ralph Northam, his service in the primary, and Stewart was just over a percent- Write CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427 [email protected] state senate plus his active role as lieutenant age point in taking out Gillespie. It will be in- The Connection welcomes views on any public governor made him well known and greatly teresting to see if the folks who voted for issue. The deadline for all material is noon admired throughout the state. Stewart will vote in the general election or Friday. Letters must be signed. Include home address and home and business numbers. Justin Fairfax gained everyone’s admiration decide to stay home. Letters are routinely edited for libel, grammar, after a primary loss to Attorney General Mark The Republican primary for lieutenant gov- good taste and factual errors. Send to: Herring four years ago led to his active cam- ernor was a slug-fest between two state sena- paigning during the interim time making him tors with Jill Vogel winning after a mud-sling- Letters to the Editor ❖ The Connection 1606 King St., Alexandria VA 22314 well known for this primary. He was also well ing campaign that left neither candidate look- Call 703-917-6444 known for his work as an attorney. If you re- ing good. Email [email protected] view the areas where Ralph Northam did well All 100 seats for the House of Delegates are

4 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Obituary

Elvira Belloma Washburn Elvira Belloma Washburn, 77, (Barbara), Joseph and Anthony of Oak Hill, died Friday, June (Audrey) Bellomo of Rutland. 9, at the Dulles Health and Re- She is also survived by Eugene hab Center in Herndon, after a Washburn (Betty) and DP long battle with cancer. Washburn (Linda), brother in Elvira was born Dec. 3, 1939, laws of Shelby, .N.C. and sister in Rutland, Vt. She graduated in law, Evelyn Washburn Giles from Mount Joseph Academy in (Walter) of Mooresville, N.C. Rutland, Castleton State Col- She is survived by many nieces lege (BA) and Western Con- and nephews. necticut State University with a Elvira Belloma Elvira enjoyed cooking, oil masters degree. She taught jun- Washburn painting and preserving and ior high English and reading in canning food. To her neighbors, Terryville, Conn. until her marriage to her friends and family, she was celebrated for husband in 1979. her gifts of jellies and relish particularly at They relocated to Richmond where they holidays. Elvira was active in assisting with lived for six years. She has been a home- the Reston Lions Club’s eye glass recycling maker in Oak Hill since 1985. Elvira was and donation program. predeceased by her parents, Antoinette and A memorial service was held at St. Joseph Bellomo, sisters Linda, Arlene, Veronica Catholic Church in Chantilly, on Concetta, and brothers Anthony and John. Thursday, June 15. Donations can be made She is survived by her loving husband, to St. Veronica Catholic Church, 3460 Gerald Washburn, sisters Mary Sullivan Centreville Road, Chantilly, VA 20151 or St. (Bernard) and Charlene Boylan (Don) of Peters Catholic Church, 134 Convent Ave., Woodstock, Ga. and brothers Salavatore Rutland, VT 05701. Volunteer Opportunities

Master Gardener Training. The Fairfax County opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or Master Gardener Association offers plant clinics, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and home turf training or speakers for homeowner’s click on Volunteer Solutions. meetings. Fees vary. Visit fairfaxgardening.org Fairfax County’s Meals on Wheels urgently or call MG Help Desk at 703-324-8556 for more. needs drivers in the Annandale, Franconia/ Fairfax County needs volunteers to drive older Kingstowne, Reston, Mount Vernon and McLean adults to medical appointments and wellness areas. 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or programs. For these and other volunteer www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 ❖ 5 News Viewpoints Hornet Pride Highlights Herndon High Graduates Reflect on Years Past, Years Ahead Herndon High Graduation Photos and interviews by Mercia Hobson Isabella Back “I am so blessed to have the opportu- Hard work pays nities that I do through the Navy. The scholarships that I received will allow off as opportunity me to go to my dream school and to serve my country. Attending Yale will awaits the expose me to countless things that I can use to better myself and work Class of 2017. towards my goals. I am so grateful for the generous scholarships that I have By Mercia Hobson from the Navy and the chance to grow The Connection into a better and more useful citizen.”

or the 426 Herndon High Christopher Randolph School students, the gradu- “I want to thank my mother for Fation ceremony held Mon- doing everything in her power to give day, June 19 at EagleBank me a stable life during my high school Arena, George Mason University, will career. I also want to thank my grand- be an event they will always remem- parents for always being there for me, ber. Not only because of the lessons Mr. Colton Walker for helping me learned in the classroom but those figure out how to get to this day, Mrs. outside the classroom as well. Kathleen Jacoby for being my rock and “Life is all about learning,” said providing a safe space for me to go Grant Bommer, a member of the whenever I needed it, and my sister 2017 Class Council in his parting re- Meghan for providing me with a marks. “And as long as you learn from motivation to keep trying my hardest your past mistakes, they aren’t so every day for the past four years.” much failures, but rather lessons for the future.” Maddy Johnson Maddy Johnson, another member “My favorite memory at Herndon has of the 2017 Class Council, spoke to be taking AP Chemistry. It had to be about the student body’s Kids at the hardest, but the most rewarding Hope Pledge, one that for four long experience for me thus far. I’ve never years gave them hope. The pledge had my classmates and my teacher reads, “I am a Kid at Hope. I am tal- Photo by Mercia Hobson/The Connection form such a family-like bond, but I ented, smart & capable of success. I The Navy Junior ROTC Color Guard presented our guess staying up all night studying and have dreams for the future, and I will nation’s colors at the Herndon High School’s Gradua- struggling with the same assignments climb to reach those goals & dreams tion Ceremony held Monday, June 20 at EagleBank really brought us together. There are every day. All Children are Capable Arena, George Mason University. Herndon graduated so many great things to remember of Success, No Exceptions!” Johnson 426 students. about Herndon, but taking that said. “It’s that setting goals and hav- elective will always stick out to me ing something to work towards that gets us up in munity; and has touched many lives in his four years because it taught me that with a support system, I could be the morning and keeps us working long into the as a Hornet.” capable of anything I set my mind to.” night.” It is a tradition for the senior class to give back The third Student Council member to speak was something back to the school in appreciation for all Cyril Antoney Cyril Antoney who thanked those who supported the help teachers, counselors and everyone in the “Everyone I know helped me get them. “Of course, we couldn’t have taken risks and community have given them. Rochelle Barasona pre- here today. I can’t possibly list them followed our ambitions without our teachers, our sented a class gift that the Student Council hoped all, but especially my parents, my counselors, and our family members,” Antoney said would have a direct impact on the other students. family and every single teacher from to the audience. The gift, a spirit bag, was meant to encourage greater kindergarten through the senior year enthusiasm, liveliness, and passion within the school. has helped me become who I am. I am DR. LIZ NOTO, Herndon High School Principal, “At the beginning of the next school year, each stu- so grateful to each and everyone for recognized the students in the class of 2017 who were dent will receive a bag containing various spirit items. inspiring me and for being my role true academic scholars, those who took the most The objects are to be used during pep rallies and models.” challenging courses and succeeded. She said, “They other school-sponsored events to promote unity and are our best and brightest and have participated in boost student morale within the school,” Barasona every aspect of student life. They are outstanding said. Cyril Antoney musicians, thespians, student government and club “Everyone I know helped me get officers, athletes, and volunteers with hundreds of WITH FAMILY, friends and distinguished guests here today. I can’t possibly list them hours of service to their churches and community.” watching on, Noto presented the diplomas. After the all, but especially my parents, my Noto reported that the class of 2017 received more last student had received a diploma, Noto asked the family and every single teacher from than $3.7 million in local and national college schol- graduates of the class of 2017 to stand. kindergarten through the senior year arships. Noto said, “By virtue of the authority vested in me has helped me become who I am. I am Noto presented The Faculty Award, the highest as the Principal of Herndon High School, the laws of so grateful to each and everyone for honor awarded annually to the young man or woman the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Governing inspiring me and for being my role considered the most outstanding senior, to Ryan Regulations and Policies of the Virginia Department models.” Alcorn, founder of The American Veterans Support of Education and the Fairfax County School Board, I Group, who Noto said is one of the most inclusive hereby confirm that the seniors of the class of 2017, people you will ever meet. “This humble young man whose names have been presented to me, are gradu- is always looking for ways to make a difference; is ates of Herndon High School. Graduates, you may See Viewpoint, Page 9 greatly respected in both the school and the com- shift your tassels from right to left.”

6 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Viewpoints Saying Goodbye to Oakton High Oakton High School graduates The class of 2017 had reflect on where 188 honor graduates, they see them- more than any selves in 5 years? previous Oakton High Photos and interviews by Maggie Giordano School class. Kylie Paldao “I am attending By Maggie Giordano Elon University. I The Connection will be studying either education he color burgundy filled the or something with floor of Eagle Bank Arena at public health. In T George Mason on June 15. five years I Oakton High School students hopefully will gathered for the 2017 graduation ceremony work as a teacher at 2 p.m. The graduating class of 587 stu- or be attending dents nervously and anxiously awaited the nursing school.” moment their names would be called to walk across the stage. SGA officers pose for one last picture. From left: Kaitlyn Hyn, Nitya Reddy Steve Buckhantz, television play-by-play Will Miller, Ahmad Hasanian, Lydia Lodge, Caroline Deloach, “I am going to announcer for the Washington Wizards, Carly Golden and Katie Mcdaid. the University of encouraged students to reach for their Photos by Maggie Giordano/The Connection Pittsburgh to dreams. study pre med. I “Find something you’re passionate about, see myself going pursue it, and be persistent,” Buckhantz to med school and said. doing some He is a Washington, D.C., native and at- internships.” tended Washington-Lee High School in Ar- lington. With 40 years of broadcasting experience with stations including NBC and Fox Hunter Carrico 5 TV in D.C., Buckhantz had a lot of advice “I am going to for the young adults. He reminded students James Madison that they should remember where they came University and from and work hard for their futures. studying theatre The faculty awarded Ryan Davis the Fac- and hopefully ulty Award, which goes to a graduating se- minoring in studio nior who has been a great contributor to art as well. In the the Oakton High School Community. future I will This year was the last year that the hopefully be doing Oakton principal, Dr. John Danbury, would something along be shaking students hands and handing the lines of acting, whether or not it them their diplomas. He was promoted to be teaching or performing on stage executive principal of region 1 a few months in D.C. or other cities.” ago. Since then, Daniel Meier has been the interim principal until the position is filled. From left: Leah Harriman, Alyson Calvello (counselor), Sarah Hanlon, Gifty Wisdom Faculty received their share of apprecia- Sam Harmic and Seamus Hanrahan. “I am thinking tion from the speakers, including student about going Lydia Lodge, the Executive Council Presi- The chorus sang a senior tribute of “Un- ates, more than any previous Oakton class. straight to a four dent, who said, “Without teachers, there written” by Natasha Bedingfield. The Oakton cougars were able to proudly year college. I was would be no graduation.” The class of 2017 had 188 honor gradu- throw their burgundy caps in the air. accepted to many colleges and am thinking about it. In five years I would be doing my dream job as a nurse and traveling around.”

Allison Grant “I am going to be going to the University of Mary Washington and I am not quite sure what I want to study yet. I will probably be getting my master’s degree Parents, Rodney and Dawn Whitmore, wait with daugh- Students received their diplomas and stopped to have after.” ter, Briana, to see their son Myles Whitmore graduate. their pictures taken once they stepped off the stage. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 ❖ 7 Education●Learning●Fun

The Women in Search of Excellence (WISE) Mentoring Program run by Northern Virginia Community College is designed to address challenges faced by SSignign upup forfor young women in higher FFREEREE DDIGITALIGITAL education. Photo courtesy of Northern Virginia SSUBSCRIPTIONUBSCRIPTION Community College to any or all of our 1155 ppapersapers www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe Finding the Right Mentor ng The

Wellbei 8 gton Page PotomacArlinArlingtonConnection Reston Potomac 11 Alexandria Page Helen Slade of New York’s Cotton feet with Club songs brought the audience to its such as “We Shall Overcome” at the Martin Gazette Packet Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert on Sunday, Jan. 15 in the Wakefield High School Page 6 Fairfax auditorium. In a highlight of the evening, Slade invited children from the audience Servi ng Alexa to dance and sing with her on stage. “I know! I know!” ndria for of mentorships, says Amy L. Best, Ph.D., professor over Wellbei Kimberly Palmer, Many of the students 200 years n • A g author of “Smart were eager to answer Conn ection Mom, Rich Mom,” “Mr. Jefferson’s” (Bill Newspaper Page 14 Barker) questions will share insights 9 at the Potomac during the living Page history assembly at 25 Cents Library on Satur- January day, Jan. 28. Armstrong Elementary. 5, 2017

10 A mentor can brighten a In the Red and chair, Department of Sociology and Anthropol-

Page Schools, Metro, and infrastructure form trinity of 2017 city budget priorities.

Classifieds,

❖

By Ver 9 non

Miles Gazette Packet Smedberg says the scale of the ogy at George Mason University. “There are really demands exceeds previous years.

Page

or the City Council, the “We’ve had these issues before, t, largest looming issue in n but the dollar amounts and the e Fthe upcoming months of size is bigger,” said Smedberg.

nm 2017 is always the city’s budget. The routine is fairly simi- “Schools, infrastructure, and lar year after year: the city and transportation are all core to what we do. How we prioritize the rest tertai school system haggle to a compro- n mise over expanding school enroll- is what we have to decide.” E

young person’s future. Across the council, schools, in-

❖

ment costs while

frastructure, and transportation 14

two types of mentors: those who provide guidance

The Year other city depart- are agreed to be the core budget

ments rotate

8 priorities in 2016. Page

Ahead

Page through yearly bud-

“Blooming student enrollment

, Page

n get increases and

n in the schools also presents a real

Estate decreases. But this challenge,” said Lovain. “It largely tio year, according to the City Coun-

c e shows up for us in school construc- cil, the budget process is shaping

Classified, Voices in Opi nn

Real Voices in tion funding needs. It’s a happy up to look a little more dire than

CloseA Women’s Encounters

Co Close Encounters problem, it’s a compliment to our

Classified, usual.

❖ ❖

March on system, but we’re adding so many

8 “The budget is ❖

Washington students. There’s a structural defi- /The and willingly share knowledge they have accrued going to be a very

11 ‘Smart Mom, n

flyer distrib- big deal,” said

Page

Left, U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly uted by Councilman cit we face. [Our]

t, Brow

Page “We’re not going needs are grow-

n Arlingtonians

n Timothy Lovain. (D-11) demands attorneys be e

t, Debra ing faster than n Unison “It always is. It’s granted access to detainees at Unison

Ede n nm e With History to be able to make revenues. That Dulles airport Sunday Jan. 29. 3 Stephens our main busi-

Page 3 by nm News,

News, tio shows up on the Classifieds, (left) and ness, but it will be

3 A+, Page 6 everybody happy e capital side and 3 tertai Page Lisa Backer particularly chal-

❖ ❖ for schools.”

Page News, nn By Marilyn Campbell

Rich Mom’ Page RichE Mom’ Photo

tertai at Westover lenging with but we were

News,6 n

News, Metro needs, In terms of E Co Market. See

from their experience in the field,” she said. “The MLK Keynote:

MLK Keynote:story, page 4. school needs, and elected to make capital costs, the ❖

Page approved Alexan-

other infrastruc- 6 Democratic Disunity

ture. Those capi- hard decisions.” dria City Public

Requested 3 From Obama to Trump

dar, Page

i Schools (ACPS)

n n News,

ho Ti

m m tal needs are criti-

e Aircraft Noise Soars e

Aircraft Noise Soars 1-19-17 n

Protest Rallies Held3 at Dulles sitive — Councilman

Page

Protest Rallies Held 3 at Dulles Atte News,

m Page 3 FY 2017 - FY

aterial.

Page tio

Requested

, Page cal to the future

Photo by John Bordner/Gazette Packet Bordner/Gazette John by Photo

Post i n n

1-19-17

e m ho n n i

Requested

News, 1-19-17 m

News, aster:

Requested

m 2026 Capital Im- e

se Willie Bailey n sitive Cale aterial.

tive si

n se

e m m

Worker/The Ti

aterial. of the city. We

Atte

tio

aster: m

i Post n n

tio

Post n n n Atte

aster:

ho provement Plan

e need to address them as best we e

2-3-2017

sit Atte

ive (CIP) budget last

n m

tio Resistance, the Arlington Way

aterial. P E

RM can.” IT IT n n

#32

Opi Post drea

PE Communities Practice Easton, MD Easton, m Ngo R MIT #322 MIT aster: year totaled

4 n $273,988,551. The FY 2018 - FY

Page

Easton, MD Easton, News, While school capacity needs

Tech Trends A

Tech Trends g PAID

#322 T T I

o m ❖ PERM generally take the largest focus in 2027 CIP proposed by Superinten-

U.S. Postage U.S.

PAID c

n . second type are those who facilitate opportunity,

ac 2017

ton, MD ton, n Eas

U.S. Postage U.S. a

m 18-24, by

PRSRT PRSRT dent Alvin Crawley raises that 10-

al S

1 aacnuary TD Disaster Recovery the budget discussion, this year a PAID

❖ STD PRSRT ❖m J

om Hu potoanac

Postage . m S year total to $515,739,655.

The Candidates (for Mayor) c2017 atAl U. Metro system in crisis and crum-

The Candidates (for Mayor) In 2017 eac

In 2017 P

E 2-8, nm

3 #322 RMIT li News, Page 12 STD

3 oPoton com ❖ 1 PRSRT by 2017 Page MD Easton, 18-24, bling city infrastructure are mus- “We need to expand the num- February Planning for Summer Camp ❖ewspapers.January ❖ nnn

News, n ewspapers. ogtonnn Coecnntioectio nn Photo cn

PAID ectio e at www.Arli cling into the spotlight. The issues ber of schools that we have and U.S. Postage U.S. ctionn Page 11 onlin

In Their4 Own Words e Co A+, www.CoJanuary 18-24,

In Their 4 Own Words nnectionNewspapers. 2017 somehow or another accommo- PRSRT STD PRSRT onn com being discussed and weighed

Page tributed c Fairfax online at www.cRestoonnne Cocnntioectionnn ewspapers.❖ January

n 18-24,c 2017om ❖ 1 aren’t new, but Councilman Paul date renovations and expansion, News, www. Photo at com Happy New Year

ne nnec ti18-24,onNewspapers. 2017 maybe building a whole new

Co li www.CoJanuary

Planningn for Summer Camp 4 See

o The fireworks finale of First Night Alexandria provides the backdrop to a selfie for 2231

Looki VA

dria,

9 n n

St., g

g Alexa Ahead, n

Page i K

Page

a couple celebrating New Year’s Eve on King Street. See story and more photos on 604 1

A+, Page

A+, : To 16

Requested

om c

Servi

c page 3. amyka Mason says that she was struggling vouching for someone or helping the person with

Address A Weekend Full of aterial. A Weekend Full of m

Newspapers. 2017

Photo tion

c sitive n

e 18-24, e e-s

nn m tributed

anuary Ti

www.Co aster: www.CoJ m

1010 nn Post

ec n

tio tio

o Page nNewspapers. Page Atte Chocolateent, Fun c

e om

c nm

#482

tertai P

tertai A

n n ria, d

E n

E exa

om Al

c PAID

age

Pos

.S.

2017 U TD S

Newspapers. RSRT

2-8,n P Photo tio nnec www.CoFebruary Alexa ndria Gazette Pa cket ❖ with academics, finances and time manage- points of contact in their area of interest. Both are Jan T ment. She knew that she needed to make a important.” change, but didn’t have a source for guidance. Ma- son discovered the Women in Search of Excellence THE MENTORING RELATIONSHIP develops best (WISE) Mentoring Program run by Northern Virginia when mentors listen to a young person’s concerns Community College and her life began to change. and expectations [and] empathize and tailor support “When I joined WISE, [I] was assigned [a] mentor and skill building around the teen’s needs and with and learned how to speak about the challenges I was their input, says Short. “The relationship should ben- facing and the goals I had,” said Mason. “[My men- efit both the mentor and the teen through expres- tor] helped me dramatically … plan for future sions of gratitude, a sense of accomplishment, and events.” expectations for future support and success.” The upcoming summer months offer teens an op- Effective mentors are as interested as they are in- portunity to connect with adults other than parents teresting and are forthcoming with accounts of their who can offer guidance through mentorship pro- own struggles and the strategies they used to over- grams. Finding the right mentoring match can be a come them, says Best. “The best mentors listen first life-altering experience, say experts. and then lead. It’s not a one size fits all relation- “Through supportive relationships with adult men- ship,” she said. “The best mentors are concrete in tors, teens can learn how to develop practical goals, their guidance and work with attainable and flex- identify resources to accomplish goals … regulate ible goals. [They] don’t play favorites, but work to emotions, communicate effectively with others and create an ethos of fairness and mutual respect.” cope better with stress,” said Jerome Short, Ph.D., Tykesha R. Myrick works as a financial aid man- associate professor of psychology at George Mason ager at Northern Virginia Community College University. (NOVA) and is the founder of the WISE program on The Virginia Mentoring Partnership (VMP) is a campus. The program, which targets minority source for those who are looking for a mentor or women, pairs students with adult professionals who those who want to mentor others. The organization’s offer guidance to the students, many of whom are program managers train mentoring program coordi- the first in their families to attend college. “The rela- nators and mentors. Their goal is to increase the num- tionships go beyond academic accomplishments and ber and quality of mentoring programs in Virginia. are life changing and life lasting,” said Myrick. “The VMP maintains a database where prospective men- goal is to provide a holistic environment for these tors or mentees can plug in a ZIP code and find the young women.” closest mentoring program. Mentorship programs such as WISE work best “We provide support across the State of Virginia to when those being mentored are receptive. “The [best] help align program practices that research shows mentees [respect] the mentor’s gift of time [and] make high quality mentorship programs,” said Betsy recognize the importance of learning by listening and Bilharz, Virginia Mentoring Partnership. “We recruit, ask thoughtful questions, and they are open and re- screen and match mentors with young people using sponsive to guidance,” said Best. “It is equally im- that set of standards.” portant to invest not simply Recognizing that a in the best and brightest, but mentoring relationship is not Details those with the smallest glim- usually a relationship of For more on Virginia Mentoring Partnership, visit mer of promise. Good men- vamentoring.org or connect.mentoring.org. equals is an important aspect tors move mountains.”

8 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Viewpoints Diocese of Arlington Victim Assistance Coordinators Herndon High Graduates Reflect For Sexually Abused Minors on Years Past, Years Ahead 703-841-2530 • 703-841-2759 Photos and interviews by Mercia Hobson The Diocese of Arlington provides comprehensive assistance to anyone who as a minor From Page 6 was sexually abused by a priest, deacon, teacher, employee or representative of the diocese. Parents, guardians, children and survivors of sexual abuse are invited and Benjamin Walter encouraged to contact the diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinators, experienced social “I can honestly say I’ve changed from workers, who will provide a confidential consultation. freshman year to senior year. I am The Diocese of Arlington is committed to assisting more outgoing, excited for life, and victims/survivors throughout the healing process. moving onto better things.” For further information, see www.arlingtondiocese.org

Joe Walter “From freshman year to senior year, I have transitioned into a responsible adult. After becoming a full-time member of my high school robotics team and being given the responsibility to design part of our robot, I had the chance to prove myself and show I could be relied on.”

Johnson Wan “I see myself being a dietician; eventually I want to be a technician. It could be a good change of pace for me.”

Nastajia Walker “Knowing that I had to graduate and wanting to get the full experience of my senior year made me get up and go to school. Grades and my parents pushed me on. I plan on going to NOVA for two years and then transfer- ring to Virginia Commonwealth University.”

Bulletin Board

To have community/civic events listed FEEDS is offered at the following in the Connection, send to schools: connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar. ❖ Dogwood Elementary School, 12300 Glade Drive, Reston ❖ Hutchison Elementary School, 13209 THURSDAY/JUNE 22 Parcher Ave., Herndon Fundraiser. Shop at a Whole Foods ❖ Herndon High School, 700 Bennett Market located inFair Lakes, Reston, St., Herndon Springfield, Tysons or Vienna and 5 percent of net sales will be donated to the Fairfax County Park ONGOING Foundation to help Frying Pan Farm Sunrise at Reston Town Center Park, Hidden Pond Nature Center, offers a monthly Caregiver Support and other Fairfax County park Group on the fourth Wednesday of programs. the month, 6:30-8 p.m. Monthly support group offers a safe place for family caregivers, to meet and JUNE 26-AUG. 25 develop a mutual support system and Summer Lunches. The Fairfax County to exchange practical information Public Schools Office of Food and and possible solutions. Call 703-956- Nutrition Services will be hosting the 8930 or email Reston.ED@ FEEDS (Food for Every Child to Eat sunriseseniorliving.com to RSVP. During Summer) BBQ program, a Exercise for Parkinson’s. Every USDA-funded program is free to all Monday, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Reston children 18 years and under and $2 Sport&Health, 11445 Isaac Newton for adults. There is no registration Square, Reston. This program brings involved, and open to everyone. Meal together people impacted by service will be provided at the Parkinson’s Disease. Free. following sites Monday-Friday, parkinsonfoundation.org. Call Natalie 11:30-1 p.m. No service on July 3 McCall at 703-904-7600 for more. and 4. In the Reston-Herndon area, www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 ❖ 9 Classified Entertainment WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 Send entertainment announcements to Bicycle Club (RBC) and Arts Herndon www.connectionnewspapers.com/Calen- invite all 2D artists to enter the dar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Reston Century T-Shirt Art Photos/artwork encouraged. Competition following a theme that Announcements Yard Sale identifies it with bicycle road cycling, “Ride Safe/Ride Fun.” Winner ONGOING notified July 15. Visit We pay top $ for STERLING, “Huge Annual Church Yard Sale- 304 E Art Exhibition. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through restonbikeclub.org/ for more. MEN’S WATCHES, Church Rd, Sterling, VA 20164. Saturday June 29 at U. S. Geological Survey, June 24 from 7 am to 2 pm. If you need 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive. Exhibit WEDNESDAY/JUNE 28 JEWELRY, COSTUME JEWELRY, it we probably have it. Appliances, cloth- “H. K. Anne Presents The American FURNITURE, PAINTINGS AND CLOCKS. ing, housewares, furniture, electronics, Landscape,” will be on exhibit at the The Great Zucchini (Comedy/ Magic). 10-11 a.m. at the Visitor Schefer Antiques exercise equipment, etc. Rain or shine.” USGS National Center is a public building, parking is available in the Center Pavilion 2739 West Ox Road, 703-241-0790 visitor’s lot outside the visitor’s Herndon. Wednesday Morning [email protected] entrance. Photo ID is required to Children’s Series. Free. Visit Employment enter. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov www.HKAnneFineArt.com for more. Announcements Announcements Lake Anne Exhibit. Through July 2 at DEADLINE JUNE 30 the Reston Community Center at Client Focus LLC has openings for Sr. Lake Anne, 1609 Washington Plaza Call for Artists. at the US Geological Business Systems Analyst I. Jobs loc N. Exhibit features work by members Survey, National Gallery, 12201 in Sterling, VA & var unanticip locs t/o of the Reston Photographic Society. Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston. Eligible US. Gthr scope of proj. Anlyz gaps in Visit www.leagueofrestonartists.org/ works are paintings, mixed media, currnt sys & advse on chngs req’d to rps or call 703-476-4500. and two-dimensional works suitable - M\SÄSSIPaULLKZVMWYVQ*VUKJ[PU[LY All-comers’ Group Fun Run at for wall hanging (no photography). vws w/srvc prvdr vendrs to undrstnd Potomac River Running. The exhibit will be on display from their sys & how chngs req’d will impct Tuesdays and Thursdays. Reston July 3-28. Artwork that reflects them. Rev biz rqmnts & delivr functnl USGS’s environmental mission is specs doc. Wrk clsely w/usr intrfc web Town Center, 11900 Market Street, Reston. For beginners or competitive encouraged. Enter works here dsgnrs to crete screen layouts. Crete www.leagueofrestonartists.org. tst plans/cases based on usr/functnl runners, come out for a fun, low-key specs. Condct usr accptnce tstng to run that is safe and social. Call 703- verfy & ensur accurte delivry of biz 689-0999 potomacriverrunning.com. SATURDAY/JULY 1 “A Bird in the Hand” through spring needs. Trvl/reloc to var unanticp locs Independence Day Celebration. 10 t/o US for LT/ST asgnmnts at clt sites. 2017 Reston Town Square Park, a.m. at Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Req: MS or frgn equiv in Comp Sci, 11990 Market Street, Reston Town Fairfax Drive, Reston. Water Mine Engg (any), Comp Apps, Biz Admin, Center. See and explore Patrick opens 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; boat rentals or rel. Mail res w/cvr ltr: Client Focus Dougherty’s monumental public art open 1:30-2:30 p.m.; puppet show 3– LLC, 46600 Chase View Ter, Sterling, sculpture made from tree saplings. Announcements Announcements VA 20164; Job 15CFL01; EOE Presented by GRACE in collaboration 9:15 p.m.; live music 9:15 p.m. with IPAR. 703-471-9242 (approximately) Fireworks show restonarts.org $10/car. Food vendors will set up Teen and Adult Art Classes near the park main office. Employment ArtSpace Herndon Every Monday Campgrounds are available for an from 5:30-8:30 p.m. 750 Center overnight stay. Reservations Street, Herndon. Drawing and Mixed recommended, call 703-471-5415. Admitting Clerk Media with Melanie Stanley - During Deanna Bogart Band Concert. 7:30- Fall and Winter of 2016. Cost: $45/ 10 p.m. at Reston Town Center, Medical Records Position 11900 Market St. A night of dancing Mclean Surgery Center is looking is looking class. The class will use a variety of techniques for drawing, painting, to the jump blues of this pianist/ for a positive, hardworking individual who saxophonist/vocalist. Call 703-912- can work well in a team environment. We are mark making, and collage using fine arts tools and materials. Students 4062 or visit restontowncenter.com/ HZTHSSVɉJLZV^LHYLSVVRPUNMVYHUHSS concerts. HYV\UKTLKPJHSVɉJLWLYZVUÔVJHUWLY will be taken down a creative path to MVYTHSSI\ZPULZZVɉJLM\UJ[PVUZ"ÔPJOPU learn to use drawing tools and cludes front desk/registration, patient phone brushes more effectively. Register by MONDAY/JULY 3 calls, and medical records. Ideal candidates emailing Melanie, and she will send would possess excellent customer service you the supply list and payment Mr. Knick Knack Performs. 10:30- skills, experience working within a medical/ options/information: 11:15 a.m. in the pavilion at the healthcare environment, ability to multitask [email protected]. 703-956- Reston Town Center, Reston Town ^P[OOPNOKLNYLLVMHJJ\YHJ`HUKLɉJPLUJ` 9560. www.artspaceherndon.com. Center, 11900 Market St. Music for Announcements Announcements strong interpersonal skills in order to com the children, part of musical municate by phone or email with patients, Mondays program. Call 703-912- KVJ[VYZHUKZ[HɈ)PSPUN\HSHUK\UKLYZ[HUK THURSDAY/JUNE 22 4062 or visit ing of HIPAA laws would be preferred. Hours Road Trip to “RENT.” 5:15-11 p.m. www.restontowncenter.com. would be from 7:30 – 4:00PM. This is a great meet at 5:15 pm Hunters Woods opportunity for the right person. If interested Shopping Center (Ledo Pizza) or at TUESDAY/JULY 4 HUKMLLS`V\HYLX\HSPÄLKWSLHZLZ\ITP[`V\Y 5:30 pm Lake Anne Plaza parking lot, resume to Dottie: [email protected] 1609 Washington Plaza N., 2254 Firecracker 5K. 8-10 a.m. Reston Hunters Woods Plaza. Reston Town Center, Reston Town Center, Association trip to National Theatre 11900 Market St. Live music and to see “RENT,” a Pulitzer Prize and American flags while rooting for the Tony Award-winning theatrical runners in the “Battle of the production follows a year in the lives Branches” competition. Call 703-912- of seven artists struggling to follow 4062 or visit their dreams without selling out. $95 www.restontowncenter.com. for RA members, $110 for non- Herndon Independence Day members Email [email protected] Celebration. 6:30-9:30 p.m. in or 703-435-6577 to register. Bready Park at the Herndon Improv Comedy Night. 7:30 p.m. at Community Center, 814 Ferndale NextStop Theater, 269 Sunset Park Ave. Family-fun event featuring Drive, Herndon. “Last Ham games, patriotic arts and craft activities, live music, family games, Announcements Announcements Standing,” show for all ages. Visit www.nextstoptheatre.org for more. bingo, food, balloon artists and more. Visit herndon-va.gov/recreation/ special-events/4th-of-july. SATURDAY/JUNE 24 Slam Allen Concert. 7-9 p.m. at WEDNESDAY/JULY 5 ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center St., Herndon. Blues style music. $20. Blue Sky Puppet Theater. 10-11 a.m. Visit www.artspaceherndon.com or at the Visitor Center Pavilion 2739 call 703-956-6590. West Ox Road, Herndon. Wednesday Morning Children’s Series. Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov JUNE 24-25 SoccerFest. Various times at Lake THURSDAY/JULY 6 Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston. Full weekend of soccer The Annandale Brass (American competition. call 703-471-5414. Popular Music). 7:30– 8:30 p.m. at Kidwell Farm, 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon. Thursday Evening Concert DEADLINE JUNE 27 Series. Free. Visit T-Shirt Art Competition. Reston www.fairfaxcounty.gov.

10 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Business Directory Relatively WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM Speaking Investigation To Advertise Your Business, Call Karen at 703-778-9422 ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL LANDSCAPING By KENNETH B. LOURIE Good is not If you live long enough, it’s quite likely that Continues good, where many of the family members/generations born better is before you will have predeceased you. Moreover, From Page 3 expected. the family members born before them, two generations-plus behind, are most surely to be “The community is together every night,” -Thomas Fuller geshtorbin (Yiddish for dead) as well. The effect: Jaka said. “This affects everyone’s heart in memory loss. Specifically, the memories lost of a generation of great grandparents – and beyond, the deepest fashion.” LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING Hassanen’s Muslim community was par- you probably never knew or for whom you have extremely limited knowledge; after all, you were ticularly stricken. an infant when your maternal grandmother died. “The community is grieving,” Jaka said. GUTTER GUTTER And when your widowed mother died nearly “The community is in shock and we’re try- nine years ago, you lost what may very well have ing to counsel the whole community and been that final anecdotal connection to your counsel the youth. Regardless of what the family’s history, especially if your Jewish and your grandparents immigrated from Russia, Romania, motive was, this was a heinous and horrific The Baltic States, etc. before World War II where murder and tragic.” recorded history of Jews was evidence not Jaka remains hopeful and is heartened by documentation. the show of support the mosque has re- It just so happens that in my family, in fact, ceived from around the state. our closest surviving cousins, Ronnie and Gil, who themselves are in their 80s, are alive and “Basically, the outpouring of support from extremely well and living with their daughter, the Christian community, the Jewish com- Jayne, in Massachusetts. This past weekend, munity, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Bahá’í; ev- IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS Ronnie and Gil drove eight hours to visit my eryone is comforting to us,” he says with brother Richard and me. And though we are tears in his eyes and emotion in his voice. regularly in touch over the phone, it has been LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING years since we were all together in Washington, “People care so much and it means so much D.C. And being in their company, naturally we to us.” reminisced – ALL WEEKEND. What spawned this Gov. Terry McAuliffe, Lt. Gov. Ralph column was a comment Ronnie (a singer/pianist Northam, U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock, in Boston for 25 years) made in response to a Fairfax County and Loudoun County Board question we asked about whether there was any other musical talent in the family. She said quite of Supervisors and other government offi- matter of factly that my maternal great-grandfa- cials have issued statements of support and ther – who I had never met or even heard of sympathy for Hassanen’s family and the before, “was a cantor in Russia – with a beautiful grieving Muslim community. voice” (who never left Russia). “What! I never knew that.” I don’t recall knowing anything about my great grandparents, maternal or paternal. IN AN ACT OF SOLIDARITY, a group of TILE / MARBLE TILE / MARBLE You see, Ronnie was there almost at the nearly 40 community members showed up beginning. She was the first born to my mother’s on Monday, June 19, to stand watch as oldest sibling and only sister, my Auntie Lee. My Muslims entered the ADAMS Center mother was the baby of the family – after two mosque in Sterling for their evening brothers were born. As such, the age difference between my mother and Ronnie was about 14 Ramadan prayers. years, atypical for a niece and an aunt. As a “She didn’t deserve to die,” said Laura result, Ronnie was witness to lots of family history Fuents of Sterling, who held a lit candle as that I thought might have been lost forever when she stood on the sidewalk outside of the my mother died in 2008. As a few examples, mosque. “I can’t even imagine what her fam- Ronnie knows who was present at my mother’s “Auntie’s” house for Passover Cedar in the early ily is feeling.” TILE / MARBLE TILE / MARBLE 1960s. She knew that “Auntie” was my mother’s “I’ve been living here for over 30 years mother’s brother’s widow, not my mother’s and it’s very sad that something like this mother’s sister. I certainly didn’t. She knew that happened in our neighborhood,” said Isabel three families/our cousins lived together in this Membreno of Sterling, who also stood while three-story home and all worked together in the family market: Levine’s. Still more that I didn’t I holding a candle that was burning brightly. know. “They’ve extended their support, so it Another family connection Ronnie and Gil means a lot that we can come together,” reminded us of was a family line we have in Jaka said. “God tells us in the Koran that South America. Again, before World War II, one we must respond to bad with good. It just of my maternal grandfather’s (Hyman) brother’s Simon (Shimon) immigrated to Argentina where shows the love that overcomes the bad.” to this day exists first (Eduardo) and second cous- Online fundraisers on LaunchGood and ins (names I’m afraid don’t know) I’ve never met, GoFundMe are raising money for though Ronnie and Gil have met numerous times Hassanen’s family to cover funeral expenses in Miami and in Argentina (Ronnie and Gil used and other needs with a combined goal of to live in South Florida). The more we talked, the more we travelled back in time. But I won’t self- $365,000. As of the morning of Tuesday, indulge myself and bore you any longer. I will try June 20, the campaigns raised a total of Alfredo’s Construction Company, Inc. to wrap it up in the next paragraph. $327,305 from more than 12,000 contribu- My mother, Celia died in December2008, my tors nationwide. •Concrete Driveways father died in December 2006. With their pass- The South Lakes High School Muslim Stu- •Patios •Sidewalks ing, my brother and I lost – among a million •Stone •Brick other things, their first-hand, on-site accounts of dent Association is organizing a “Vigil for our Lourie/Blacker history dating back 150 years Phone: Nabra” event at Lake Anne Plaza at 6:30 or so to Russia/Eastern Europe, before any of my p.m. on Wednesday, June 21. VA: (703) 698-0060 • MD: (301) 316-1603 relatives immigrated to America. Ronnie, my “We have to always remember, respond www.alfredosconstructioncompany.com mother’s cherished niece, knows as much about to bad with good,” Jaka said. “We have to our family history as there is still to know and her husband of nearly 63 years, Gil, knows almost as show more love, more harmony. We were An expert is someone much. Their visit wasn’t just a weekend. It was a overwhelmed by calls, by emails, by visits who knows some of the worst mis- lifetime. A weekend of a lifetime for which by the interfaith communities. Pastors are takes that can be made in his subject Richard and I are extraordinarily grateful. coming and calling, rabbis are calling and and how to avoid them. coming over. That’s the love that overcomes -Werner Heisenberg Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. the hate.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 ❖ 11 News

Brian Rose, “Novacane” producer (far right) joined his producers: Photos by Movoly Productions Megan Zinn-Burke, Shawn Neifert-Chantilly, and Josh Oswalt-Herndon to More than one hundred people attended Movoly Production, LLC’s enjoy a moment in the limelight at the Screening Premiere of their first Screening Premiere of the movie “Novacane.” The event was held May 5 feature length film, “Novacane,” a series of four short films. After six at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria. Movoly Produc- months of shooting, production concluded March 1. The crew plans on tions, LLC is a film and video company founded by Brian Rose. submitting “Novacane” to various film festivals. Herndon Native Produces Feature Length Film

It was three weeks before the screening Screening Premiere held; Brian Rose makes premiere date for “Novacane.” Rose had 20 hours of film footage, over a terabyte to edit. film on a near zero dollar budget. He met the challenge head on. He locked himself in a room and worked. Twenty days By Mercia Hobson but it took them two years from concept to later he emerged. “Novacane” was nearly The Connection premiere night. They tackled the project ready. professionally, took sequential steps and ore than 100 people-actors, they were flexible. ROSE REPORTED that May 5, the production crew, and guests First, Rose recognized the need to form a premiere’s date, was a stressful day not be- Mgathered at Northern Vir- limited liability company, an LLC, before cause of the premiere itself but because they ginia Community College in starting the filmmaking. “We incorporated were still editing the film eight hours be- Alexandria May 5, to witness the premiere [Movoly Productions, LLC] in May 2016,” fore they were supposed to release it. The screening of the feature film, Novacane, a Rose said. “We’d been doing filming under production crew wanted it as near perfect four-part short film series produced by Brian our names before then. We had this movie as they could get it. Rose, filmmaker, videographer, and owner ‘Novacane’ in mind, so we knew that was “We were still making changes to it, so it of Movoly Productions, LLC. The film is cen- coming up. We wanted to take on more sig- was pretty down to the wire. It takes a lot tered on a group of young adults, their com- nificant projects with a more professional of time to get the ins and outs of sound ing of age stories and the culture of the branding.” perfect...We were trying to get it as good as millennial generation. Rose, a Herndon According to Rose, Movoly Productions, Photo by Mercia Hobson/The Connection we could for the screening,” Rose said. As native, is currently pursuing studies in Film LLC comprises artists dedicated to telling Brian Rose, Herndon native and for the turnout and the audience reaction, and Video Production at George Mason stories through digital media — promo- George Mason student produced Rose said, “We had probably around 100 University in Fairfax. tional, advertisement, narrative, and event the four-part feature film series people come out...and everyone I talked to Rose produced “Novacane” on micro bud- coverage such as weddings and corporate “Novacane.” Rose edited more seemed to like it. All the actors were happy get, near zero dollars. He is known for mak- gatherings. than a terabyte of footage, which with the film.” ing things happen and literally grew up Next, Rose retained high-quality actors required three weeks of nonstop Dilruk De Silva of Burke played the char- behind a camera. Rose has been involved and producers even though he could only editing. Although a movie is shot acter of Alvin. He said, “This was honestly with film his entire life. “My parents met offer them compensation of “love, food, and in locations, it is built in the edit- one of my favorite roles to play because the while volunteering for Herndon Community a great experience.” Asked how he got ac- ing room. character of Alvin was very much like me. Television and my family has been volun- tors for free, Rose said, “We went onto He was the funny man of the group but had teering there since then. Herndon Commu- backstage.com, that’s an online site that we envisioned, we had to change them sig- a reason for being the way he was...This role nity Television (HCTV) was a great place helps actors book roles. We got over 100 nificantly, rework things as they were hap- allowed me to have a lot of freedom as an for me to learn the ropes of television and responses...We found that there are a lot of pening. It’s one thing to write a script and actor and I would be honored to do it again.” develop my craft,” said Rose. people dedicated who want to [act] for the debate about ideas. It’s something entirely According to Rose, now that the film is According to Nancy Rose, Executive Di- craft and not for a paycheck.” different to get behind the camera and po- complete, he intends to submit it to differ- rector of HCTV, while her son was born with Using volunteers as actors had its limita- sition people.” ent festivals. “I want to send it to a whole a camera in his hands, “He makes things tions. Megan Zinn from Burke was On the first day of filming in September bunch of them, some big, some small and happen,” she said. Rose reported that when “Novacane” Executive Creator and Josh 2016, Rose said he had been excited, “I local. We also want to try to see how much her son volunteers at HCTV his perpetual Oswalt from Herndon was “Novacane” Pro- couldn’t wait to get out of bed,” but by we can spot it online; it’s free on YouTube,” response to film challenges and requests to ducer. Zinn said, “The most challenging as- March 2017, the excitement had tapered, he said. “‘Novacane,’ it was a labor of love,” incorporate innovative ideas has always pect of making this film was that it was all and Rose found it was hard to move for- he added. “We want to grow it. I would hope been, “Yeah, I think we can do that.” essentially volunteer-based... It was tricky ward. Filming was three months over sched- we would make some money off of it.” to nail down everybody’s availability. We got ule and after six months operating on a Asked where Rose sees himself 40 years BRIAN ROSE said he created “Novacane” lucky and had a wonderful cast who put in shoestring budget with his crew shooting from now, he replied he’ll be doing the as an experiment to see if a bunch of no- a lot of free hours to make this film as amaz- film across a range of locations in Northern same thing as he is today but with two bodies, he and his film buddies, could pro- ing as we did.” Virginia, going to school, and working on major changes. “On a much larger scale duce a high-quality professional feature Oswalt reported additional challenges the weekends to uphold the digital demands of and with income. Passion is important but length film on a micro budget. They did it, crew met and overcame. “For some scenes his company, time caught up with Rose. so is income.”

12 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ June 21-27, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com