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Emily Smith, Senior, Lake Braddock Sec- ondary School, pictured with U.S. Rep Gerry Connolly (D-11), is one of the recipients of the 2020 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County. Student Biden Wins In Peace Awards Primary Results, Page 5 A Heart-wrenching Tale Presented Cappies Review, Page 2 News, Page 3 Photo by Mercia Hobson/The Connection by Mercia Hobson/The Photo Page 9 Opinion, Page 4 v Entertainment, 8 Classifieds, March 5-11, 2020 online at www.connectionnewspapers.com Cappies Review

Lake Braddock Secondary School’s A Heart-wrenching Tale production of ‘A Piece of My Heart.’

By Mia Bridges while the women were partying, it shifted West Springfield High School between different rainbow patterns; and during mass casualties, it was colored a he place is Cu Chi, Vietnam; the dramatic, bloody red. In addition to this, year is 1967. It is the Vietnam the lighting was used to create many dif- TWar, and six brave women are ferent effects; for instance, during the doing their best to serve their bombing scenes, lights were turned rapidly country and aid the American soldiers in on and off in order to emulate emergency Lake Braddock Secondary School’s produc- lights. The lighting crew also never missed tion of “A Piece of My Heart,” a heart- a cue; every blackout was right on time and wrenching tale of the effects of war. every spotlight was in its exact place. “A Piece of My Heart” is a dramatic, pow- The special effects in Braddock’s produc- erful play written by Shirley Lauro and tion consisted of incredibly realistic fake based on the memoir of the same name by Photo by Jamie Grove wounds that demonstrated how gruesome Keith Walker. It follows six American From left: Angelia DeJesus, Amy Smith, Ellen Keil, Savannah Raeder and the war was to the audience. Designer women who served in the Vietnam war: Megan Orlando in Lake Braddock Secondary School’s production of ‘A Aaron Ruggiero created faux cuts, burns, Army nurses Sissy and LeeAnn, Navy nurse Piece of My Heart.’ and even amputations that shocked the Martha, Red Cross nurse Whitney, intelli- audience with their realism, building very gence officer Steele, and country music lutely incredible. Sissy (Adeline Merlo), for vannah Raeder) all had wonderfully con- powerful scenes that showed the horrific singer MaryJo. These characters are based instance, created many powerful moments sistent mannerisms that really sold the au- sights that the nurses had to deal with on a on real women who served in the war, and that tied her story together, such as her thenticity of their characters to the audi- daily basis. When fake blood from the bod- the play explores not only their experiences breakdown over the death of a soldier who ence. Together, the six actresses built a ies squirted onto Martha, Sissy, and LeeAnn, in Vietnam but also how it affects them once carried her photograph and her learning strong, confident leading cast that piqued the audience truly grasped how terrifying they return stateside. that her daughter was affected by Agent the audience’s interest in every second of their job was. Braddock’s production is led by six amaz- Orange disease. Whitney (Zoey Golabek) the show. Lake Braddock Secondary School’s per- ing actresses who each portray one of the and LeeAnn (Jannesta Marshall) also pro- The lighting in Braddock’s “A Piece of My formance of “A Piece of My Heart” was six women serving. Each actress had her vided strong performances with confidence Heart,” designed by Ethan Feil, contributed heart-wrenching, beautiful, and powerful own very distinct character that had a very that helped carry the show; they drew the wholeheartedly to the mood of the play, and beyond words. With a strikingly strong cast clear arc from the beginning to the end of audience’s attention every time they were it did so beautifully in every instance. The and stellar tech design and execution, Lake the show. The amount of understanding on stage with their brilliant stage presence. cyclorama was lit with a variety of colors Braddock Theatre caused every audience each actress had for her character’s growth Additionally, Martha (Maddie Hovastak), based on what was happening in the scene: member to leave a piece of their heart with and interaction with the story was abso- Steele (MaKayla Super), and MaryJo (Sa- at Christmastime, it was red and green; this gorgeous story.

2 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic 703-778-9414 or [email protected] News Viewpoints What Do Award Recipients Say? Photos by Mercia Hobson/The Connection

Salwa Zahid, Senior, West Springfield High School: Having been to a war-torn country myself and seen the Family, friends devastating effects of war, I and loved ones am glad to be having a pack the com- positive impact on others’ munity center lives around the world. By at the 2020 organizing drives, fundraisers, Student Peace and raising awareness about Awards of the conflicts around the world Fairfax County. and their effects on the civilians, we are not only bringing peace to the lives of those affected by war but also calling for an end to those wars.

Student Peace Awards Presented Catherine Soto, Senior, Lee High School: I’m so glad to be a part of the club Senior and junior high school students honored. best buddies because it spreads inclusion, which is By Mercia Hobson Development class that taught social skills, decision- something society should The Connection making, and coping strategies for difficult or con- value. I’m very honored to fusing situations. “Peers model communication skills receive this award and he 2020 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax as they listen to students talk about their interests represent this club that County, held Sunday, March 1, recognized and concerns. They then help the students in the class encourages peace. Thigh school junior and senior students at remain calm and focused,” Fisher said. 24 public and two private high schools in the county who made a positive contribution to Sarah Gu is a Senior at McLean High their school or wider community by promoting mu- School. When she visited her family in China there tual understanding and respect for all people. Held the last five summers, she offered the children free at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in lessons in English and current affairs. According to Fairfax, sponsors, family and friends celebrated the Fisher, Gu eventually grew her program into an or- accomplishments of the recipients at a public recep- ganization called “The Windows,” which served over tion. 600 children. Last fall, organizers asked the schools’ principals to nominate one outstanding student or student At , Fisher said that Siedeen Ahmed, Senior, group for the award, proactively seeking a likely Roudah Chaker put in hundreds of volunteer hours South County High nominee. This year’s recipients worked as peacemak- packing meals, participating in back-to-school drives School: Change can only ers in a variety of settings according to emcee, Mar- for orphanages, distributing needed items to the come about if we start it first. garet Fisher, who during her remarks at Sunday’s homeless, and raising $3000 for Syrian refugees. “She reception gave a brief overview of each student’s ac- is also active politically, working to correct policies complishment. that directly harm those who want to come to the According to Fisher, in Vienna at Cedar Lane U.S. for its promise of peace,” said Fisher. High School, Senior Sage Quick and Junior Will LaWalt volunteered to serve as peers in a Personal See Peace Awards, Page 5

From left: Vice-Chair of the Fairfax County Board of Renee Ritchey, Senior, Supervisors Penny Gross Fairfax High School: The (D-Mason District), Chair of reason I’m so involved in the Fairfax County School advocacy is that people tell Board Karen Corbett Sand- me I shouldn’t care. Well, I ers (Mount Vernon), U.S. figure that if you don’t care, Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11), you aren’t paying attention Fairfax County School enough. Be a part of the Board Members Karen solution, even if people try Keys-Gamarra (At-Large) and label you as “angry.” That and Melanie Meren (Hunter “anger” is the drive and Mill District). passion for making the world a better place.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 ❖ 3 Opinion Burke

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Work Is Not Yet Done @BurkeConnection By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum An independent, locally owned weekly promise to clean up the environ- annually. Most states have dropped the require- newspaper delivered to State Delegate (D-36) ment. How should we get to a ment. Would every other year be adequate? homes and businesses. cleaner economy in the state? With gasoline tax revenues declining as au- Published by he General Assembly is What should be the timeline on tomobiles get more mileage per gallon, should Local Media Connection LLC in the final week of its environmental legislation as ex- the gas tax be increased to make up for the 1606 King Street Tscheduled 60-day an perts advise us on the impending loss? Or should cars be taxed on the distance Alexandria, Virginia 22314 nual session—sched- climate change crisis? Are con- they travel in a year? And what about electric uled to adjourn sine die on March sumers willing to pay more to get vehicles that do not burn any gas? Should we Free digital edition delivered to your email box. Go to 7. The session has already made cleaner electricity? be making a greater investment in our trans- connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe history with the actions that have How strict should background portation infrastructure? been taken, and that history will checks be for firearm transfers? A Should a constitutional amendment be ap- be added to in its last week. Resolution of re- slim majority support my bill to require a back- proved setting up an independent redistrict- NEWS DEPARTMENT: [email protected] maining issues will determine just how historic ground check on all firearm transfers. Others ing commission or is there another way to try the session will be and how are vehement about having background checks make sure districts can be drawn fairly with- Kemal Kurspahic Commentary strong the forces of “we for only firearm purchases. Should compro- out incumbents alone picking their voters? Editor ❖ 703-778-9414 have always done it this mises be made on gun safety measures de- I have made my views public on these and [email protected] way” are. signed to reduce gun-related violence? other issues over the years. In a legislative ses- Andrea Worker A majority of both the House and the Senate Should public employees be allowed to bar- sion all views must be considered: urban, sub- Contributing Writer members agree that the minimum wage should gain with local governments on the conditions urban, rural; Democratic, Republican, Social- [email protected] be increased—actually should have been in- and compensation for employment? Or should ist (there is one); conservative, moderate, lib- Jean Card creased years ago. The current minimum of they only be able to meet and discuss their eral; etc. In most instances a compromise can Production Editor $7.25 is an embarrassment. But discussions wages and conditions with local governments be reached in conference committees such as [email protected] continue to be held on how much the increase with no power to bargain? Should all employ- those that are now meeting. Other issues will should be. Should there be incremental in- ees be required to pay dues to unions that are be put off for another year. Regardless of what ADVERTISING: creases over time? Should increases be state- representing their interests? happens with remaining issues, the 2020 ses- For advertising information wide or regional? What jobs should the in- How often should vehicles have a safety in- sion will go down in history as truly a remark- e-mail: crease cover? spection? For many years the requirement was able one with the many tough issues that have [email protected] 703-778-9431 Almost every member ran for office with a twice annually. Most recently it has been once already been resolved. Steve Hogan Letters to the Editor Display Advertising, 703-778-9418 [email protected]

Debbie Funk Coronavirus Update - Message from the Superintendent - March 2 National Sales 703-778-9444 Dear Parents and Staff, students to wash their hands. We keep schools open and operating to this webpage: FCPS coronavirus- [email protected] are reinforcing with our custodial while providing a clean and safe update and additional information FCPS is working closely with the teams the importance of following environment during an outbreak is available from the Fairfax County David Griffin Fairfax County Health Department our standard cleaning protocols by and the essential functions that Health Department . Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 to monitor the latest updates using hospital-grade disinfectants must be performed by FCPS if To date, FCPS has cancelled in- [email protected] about the coronavirus (COVID- on frequently-touched surfaces schools are closed. FCPS will con- ternational field trips and short- 19). We are reinforcing the im- such as doorknobs, faucet handles, tinue to work closely with health term visitations to and from some Classified & Employment Advertising portance of ensuring students are and handrails. Hand sanitizer is officials to prepare for various sce- countries, based on CDC guide- 703-778-9431 following proper handwashing available in all schools and if a stu- narios that could develop. lines. procedures before eating and af- dent is showing signs of a cold or Our overall goal would be to do We will continue to provide you ter sneezing, coughing, or using the flu, they should stay home. all we can to maintain continuity regular updates as this situation Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm the bathroom. We realize that time As indicated in my message to of operations while minimizing continues to rapidly evolve. [email protected] is a valuable commodity during you last week, FCPS is in the pro- student and staff exposure. Sincerely, @MaryKimm the school day, and in today’s en- cess of reviewing and updating its As of today, there are no con- vironment, hand washing should existing pandemic influenza re- firmed COVID-19 cases in Fairfax Scott Brabrand Executive Vice President Jerry Vernon be a priority, so we are encourag- sponse plan. The plan addresses County or the D.C. region. Up- Superintendent, Fairfax 703-549-0004 ing staff to provide ample time for the specific activities necessary to dated information is being posted County Public Schools [email protected]

Managing Editor A Plea for Gender-neutral Option Kemal Kurspahic Art/Design: To the Editor: been physically harmed. I have Laurence Foong, John Heinly, Ali Khaligh Governor Northam, Del. Filler- learned to not use a bathroom for Production Manager: Corn, and Sen. Marsden, I am call- over 12 hours at a time. I have Write Geovani Flores ing on you to add a gender neu- been subject to very confused tral option for Virginia drivers li- friskings at the airport because I The Connection welcomes views on any public issue. CIRCULATION censes. As a Non-Binary person, do not fit into one of two boxes, The deadline for all material is noon Friday. Letters must be Circulation Manager: this little change would mean an and whichever box they pick, I signed. Include home address and home and business num- Ann Oliver enormous amount. It would be an ping for not looking right In the bers. Letters are routinely edited for length, libel, grammar, [email protected] official validation of who I am. It scan. civility, good taste and factual errors. Send to: would help me believe we are all Please give me a third option. Letters to the Editor truly equal citizens under the law. Such a small change to be inclu- The Connection It would help normalize different sive of all Virginia’s citizens. To not 1606 King St. genders besides man and woman, be humiliated, to have my govern- Alexandria VA 22314 and it would help recognize ment recognize who I am. Add a By email: [email protected] intersexed people who are so of- gender neutral option on the Vir- ten overlooked. ginia drivers license. Fifteen other states and D.C. al- ready have this option. I have been Ja’acov Miriam Van Pelt told all my life I do not fit in. I have Burke 4 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Biden Wins Virginia Virginia Presidential Primary 2020 Results

Statewide Results 10th Congressional District Fairfax County City of Alexandria Joe Biden 704,541 53.33% Joe Biden 76,776 51.07% Joe Biden 121,865 Joe Biden 20,782 Bernie Sanders 305,493 23.12% Bernie Sanders 35,550 23.65% Bernie Sanders 57,085 Bernie Sanders 7,586 Elizabeth Warren 142,280 10.77% Elizabeth Warren 14,714 9.79% Elizabeth Warren 29,633 Elizabeth Warren 7,628 Michael Bloomberg 127,655 9.66% Michael Bloomberg 18,245 12.14% Michael Bloomberg 28,131 Michael Bloomberg 4,243 Tulsi Gabbard 11,231 0.85% Tulsi Gabbard 1,359 0.90% Tulsi Gabbard 1,794 Tulsi Gabbard 246

8th Congressional District 11th Congressional District Arlington County Joe Biden 95,000 49.12% Joe Biden 78,703 49.74% Joe Biden 33,975 Bernie Sanders 40,095 20.73% Bernie Sanders 39,685 25.08% Bernie Sanders 13,263 Elizabeth Warren 32,064 16.58% Elizabeth Warren 18,631 11.77% Elizabeth Warren 14,062 Michael Bloomberg 19,860 10.27% Michael Bloomberg 16,370 10.35% Michael Bloomberg 6,682 Tulsi Gabbard 1,189 0.61% Tulsi Gabbard 1,119 0.71% Tulsi Gabbard 383

Photos by Mercia Hobson/The Connection Peace Awards Presented From Page 3 field. “Soto helped create the Best Buddies chapter at Lee High in Reston is where Lindsey School. Soto and her fellow Best Hirshfeld goes to school and Buddies leaders were responsible is a senior. “Hirshfeld feels em- for recruiting general education pathy for classmates who are students who wished to build a re- struggling to overcome a vari- lationship with the special needs ety of issues that make them students who might not otherwise feel isolated. She helped raise have had the opportunity to en- money for children with brain gage with the student community,” tumors, organized cultural fes- said Fisher. tivals to showcase diversity, and helped stage a school-wide si- Others made differences to lent protest against gun vio- world neighbors, like Betsabe lence,” said Fisher. Pardo, Senior at Mountain View High School in At South County High Centreville. Pardo raised money School in Lorton, Siedeen to bring safe drinking water to Ahmed, Senior founded communities around the world. South County’s Interfaith Club Margaret Fisher emcees the 2020 Student U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11) offers to provide a safe space for stu- Dignitaries acknowledged the Peace Awards of Fairfax County held at the his congratulations to the recipients of dent-led discussions. “She is achievements of the recipients. Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, the 2020 Student Peace Awards of also the President of Stallions U.S. Rep. Gerry Connelly (D-11) Fairfax, on Sunday, March 1. Fairfax County. with Refugees. Her goal is to said, “I congratulate this year’s re- spread the message that all stu- cipients of the Student Peace of Supervisors, Jeffery McKay. She for all.” bors but to repair relation- dents, including immigrants Awards. Their leadership and com- read: “I am always proud to see In her remarks, Guest ships with Mother Earth. and refugees, are welcome and mitment to being peacemakers the level of commitment our stu- Speaker Kendyl Crawford, Di- The awardees received $250, valued,” said Fisher. and fostering mutual respect for dents in Fairfax County put toward rector of Virginia Interfaith plus another $100 to be given our differences are bringing posi- improving our community. It is this Power & Light addressed the to any nonprofit organization One after another, Fisher read tive change and inclusivity to our inspiring energy and action, com- effect of climate change on of their choice that operated in profiles of youth who made a community.” bined with Fairfax County resi- peace. the spirit of the Peace Awards. difference, some locally like Supervisor Penny Gross (D-Ma- dents’ diverse experiences that al- Crawford said she was The students also received the Catherine Soto, Senior at son District) shared a letter from low us to consistently strive to- amazed at the students’ efforts book, Sweet Fruit from a Bit- Lee High School in Spring- Chair of the Fairfax County Board ward creating a better community to care not only for their neigh- ter Tree by Mark Andreas.

COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP

“Loving People to Life” b Worship Gathering – Sunday 8:45 & 11 AM Sunday School 10:10 AM b Sun. Evening – Realtime Worship & Youth 6 PM Family Night – Wednesday 7:15 PM To Advertise Your Home Life Groups, College/Young Adult Ministries, and Living Free Support Groups Community of Worship, Visit our Website: jccag.org 4650 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax Bill Frasnelli, PASTOR 703-383-1170 Call 703-778-9418 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 ❖ 5 Welcome Zaher Aymach, D.D.S. Wellbeing Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics Inflicting Pain to Gain Relief Self Injury Awareness Month is a time to learn about the condition and erase the stigma.

By Marilyn Campbell The Connection

arch is self-injury prevention month, Ma time when mental health profes- sionals work to raise awareness of the condition, recognize the signs and work to remove the stigma. Known by clinicians as non- suicidal self-injury, the behavior is described as intentionally harming oneself without intend- ing to end one’s life. The population most likely to engage in self-harm behaviors range from middle school through college, according to the American Psychological Association. “When teens begin engaging in cutting be- havior it is typically because they are feeling overwhelmed by intense feelings or emotions and don’t have the coping skills to manage or respond to how they feel, said therapist Carol Barnaby, MSW, LCSW. “Adolescents might self-injure to distract Stacie themselves from intense negative emotions of Isenberg sadness or anger, or emotional numbness, added Jerome Short, Ph.D., Associate Profes- “Self-injury may be a sign of Jerome depression, anxiety, substance Short DR. GENE SWEETNAM use, or post-traumatic stress DR. GRACE CHANG DR. KAREN JINYOUNG KIM disorders.” — Jerome Short, Ph.D., Associate Professor OPTOMETRISTS of Psychology at

sor of Psychology at George Mason University. self-harming releases the body’s natural opiates and “They may also want to punish themselves or endorphins that help them manage their feelings,” express a need for help.” said Joanne Bagshaw, Ph.D., Professor of Psychol- Cuts and burns on the wrists or thighs are ogy at Montgomery College. “On the flip side, a teen among the most common signs of self-injury. who is shut down or who feels numb might self-harm “Parents may notice their children have unex- to feel their feelings. Alternatively, self-harm may be plained cuts, burns, or bruises,” said Short. for the teen to communicate that they need help.” “Adolescents may wear clothing or bracelets to Several factors might trigger self-inflicted injuries. cover themselves even in very warm settings. “Childhood abuse and conflicted parental relation- Parents may find knives or razors in their ships may trigger self-injury,” said Short. “Self-injury children’s rooms or notice they are missing from may be a sign of depression, anxiety, substance use, the home.” or post-traumatic stress disorders.” “Other signs that your child may be cutting Parents who suspect that their child might be en- include marks on the skin from scratching, us- gaging in intentional self-injury should avoid criti- ing a paper clip or skin picking, advises Barnaby. cism and seek mental health treatment. “Parents • Family & Pediatric Vision Care “Multiple similar marks on the skin in close should not ignore the problem,” said Short. “If chil- • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Treatment of Eye Diseases proximity for which your child has no explana- dren engage in life threatening behavior, they should • 21 years Naval Service, 6 years Active Duty tion,’ said Barnaby. take them to a hospital.” • Laser Vision Consultants • Over a thousand frames in stock While cutting and burning Noticing those marks, however, • We carry all major brands of contact lenses • In-house lab oneself causes pain initially, could require careful attention. that pain can evolve into re- “Self-harm behavior “Teens who self-injure often hide Most Insurances Accepted: lief. “Sometimes cutting can the marks that self-injury might Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Care First, Medicare, Tricare In-network Doctor, be habit-forming or become is very treatable cause,” said Child Psychologist Cigna, DavisVision, Aetna HMO/PPO/POS, PHCS, compulsive, said Barnaby. with early Stacie Isenberg, Psy. D. “For ex- VSP® Network Doctor, EyeMed Vision Care, United Healthcare, VA Medicaid “This in simple terms, means ample, they may wear a long- that the more the person WE WELCOME YOUR DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION sleeved shirt in hot weather if cuts the more they feel the intervention.” there are marks on their arms or 5206A Rolling Rd. need to do it and their brain — Carol Barnaby, LCSW multiple bracelets if there are Burke Professional Center associates cutting with re- marks on their wrists.” Burke, VA 22015 lief.” “If parents feel that their teen is engaging in self- 703-425-2000 Teens might turn to self-injury as a way of harm behaviors they should show compassion for www.drsweetnam.com • www.sightforvision.com regulating their emotions. “For teens who are their child and get help, added Barnaby. “Self-harm feeling a lot of strong and intense emotions, behavior is very treatable with early intervention.“ 6 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

Photos by Rob Paine/Volunteer Fairfax/RSVP- Northern Virginia Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, fifth from right, pictured with Volunteer Fairfax staff and volunteers, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, during his visit to the volunteer center in Fairfax City. Virginia Governor Ralph Northam visits Volunteer Fairfax Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam visited the Volunteer Alexandria, personally matches headquarters of Volunteer Fairfax in Fairfax volunteers 55 or better with their ideal ser- City, Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 25, 2020. The vice opportunities. RSVP is holding a free governor was in Fairfax to speak with the seminar titled “The Art of Volunteering in staff of Legal Services of Northern Virginia Retirement,” Saturday, March 21, 2020, at which is also housed in the Burkholder the headquarters of Volunteer Fairfax. Building. Volunteers for Change provides flexible After taking a tour of the Volunteer Fairfax weekend and evening volunteer opportu- headquarters lead by Volunteer Fairfax nities for busy adults with a desire to serve. Chief Executive Officer Steve Mutty and A VFC orientation is scheduled to take place Volunteer Fairfax Chief Operating Officer at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 17, at Volun- Emily Swenson, Northam spoke with Vol- teer Fairfax. unteer Fairfax staff , its board of directors Volunteer Fairfax also hosts the annual president Ginger L. Bristow and several Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards, volunteers with RSVP (Retired and Senior this year taking place April 23, 2020, at the Volunteer Program) and Volunteer Fairfax’s Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles Ho- Volunteers for Change program about the tel in Chantilly. To sign any of these volun- work they do and the current volunteer teer orientations or to purchase tickets for needs in the community. the April 23 Volunteer Service Awards RSVP-Northern Virginia, a program of breakfast visit www.volunteerfairfax.org or Volunteer Fairfax, Volunteer Arlington and www.rsvpnova.org.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, left, speaks with RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) volunteers, from right, Ken Kozloff of Spring- field, Bing Van Nuys of Fairfax and Michael McLaughlin of Fairfax Sta- tion, during Northam’s visit to Volunteer Fairfax, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, in the City of Fairfax. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 ❖ 7 Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcements at and older and active and retired military, $4. www.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. The Visit the website: www.fairfax-station.org. deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork en- couraged. WEDNESDAY/MARCH 11 Wednesday at the Movies. At Cinema Arts ONGOING Theatre, 9650 Main Street, Fairfax. Sponsored St. James Intramural High School by Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke. Basketball League. Now thru March 10. At Discounted tickets for seniors; $5.50. The group the St. James Sports, Wellness and meets after the movie for a short discussion of Entertainment Complex, 6805 Industrial Road, the film. Transportation may be provided if you Springfield. The St. James invites you to call the transportation office (703-323-4788) a participate in its Middle School Basketball week prior to the movie date. Contact Anne League for Boys & Girls (8th to 12th grade), Allen, at 703-978-5973, for movie selection and Now thru March 10, in the new 33,000 square other details. foot Basketball Courthouse on four high school regulation sized courts. The TSJ Intramural High SATURDAY/MARCH 14 School Basketball League registration fee is The Russian $250 per player and $600 per team. All games Archaeology Symposium. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At are officiated and statistics provided. The TSJ National George Mason’s Gunston Hall, 10709 Gunston Intramural High School Basketball league also Ballet comes Road, Mason Neck. This year’s theme is History includes a Playoff round where top teams in the to GMU in Transit. Learn more about recent league will meet. Visit https:// archaeological developments and discover what www.thestjames.com/sports/basketball/ Center for is happening in the region from archaeology sessions/8/courses/tsj-basketball-winter-team or the Arts on professionals. Participate in discussions and contact Alpha or Pele with any questions at 703- Saturday, even learn how you can be more involved in 239-6841. local preservation. This event is in partnership Monday Exercise Classes. Now thru March 30. March 7. with Friends of Fairfax Archaeology. Cost is $45; 9:30-10:30 a.m. At Lord of Life Lutheran $35 for members of Gunston Hall & Friends of Church, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. Fairfax Archaeology. Visit the website: Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke offers www.gunstonhall.org exercise classes for older adults designed to Metro School of the Arts Company Project: build strength and improve balance and Upgrade. 7-9 p.m. At Ernst Community flexibility. All levels of ability are welcome. Call Cultural Center, 8333 Little River Turnpike, the SCFB office, 703-426-2824, for class Annandale. Upgrade under the artistic direction information. of Sara Hart, Charles Renato, and Roxanne King Wednesday Exercise Classes. Now thru May features innovative choreography by 27. 9-10 a.m. At The Lutheran Church of the Metropolitan faculty, students, alumnus, and Abiding Presence, 6304 Lee Chapel Road, Burke. renowned guest artists. Join the pre-professional Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke offers dance companies, iMpulse, MYTE, and exercise classes for older adults designed to dynaMYTE along with special guest performers, build strength and improve balance and as they explore the peaks and valleys of life, flexibility. All levels of ability are welcome. Call discover the strengths and weaknesses of each the SCFB office, 703-426-2824, for class other, and challenge us all to an upgrade. information. (20 weeks @$2.50/class = $50) Upgrade will be an evening of electrifying The Color Green. Now thru March 29. At performances featuring some of the area’s most Torpedo Factory Artists at Mosaic, 105 District incredible youth dancers in tap, jazz, Ave., Fairfax. In celebration of an early spring Russian National Ballet: contemporary, music theater, and hip hop. Cost and St. Patrick’s Day, Torpedo Factory artists are is $20. Visit the website: http:// tackling one of nature’s most ubiquitous colors, “Romeo & Juliet” / “Carmen” metropolitanarts.org green. In its newest exhibit simply titled, Green, Beethoven at 250 “Soulmates.” 8 p.m. At Saturday/March 7, 8 p.m. At GMU Center for the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax. With lush the gallery is presenting a selection of original GMU Center for the Arts, Concert Hall, 4373 paintings, photographs, jewelry, scarves, music and exquisite grace, the Russian National Ballet returns to the Center to perform two of the world’s Mason Pond Dr, Fairfax. Featuring the Fairfax ceramics and more, that reflect its various greatest ballets: Romeo and Juliet together with Carmen. Both ballets express the torments of love. Young Symphony Orchestra with Christopher artists’ interpretations of the color. Torpedo love, bursting with exhilarating passion, is at the heart of Romeo and Juliet, with the perilous fate for Zimmerman, conductor, and Philippe Bianconi Factory artists are chosen through a rigorous the star-crossed lovers. While with Carmen, it is unrequited love, burning with obsession that is at the of France on piano. The program features jurying process and enjoy a high degree of center of this beautifully tragic ballet. Under the direction of the legendary Bolshoi principal dancer Elena Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 and Beethoven acclaim, both locally and nationally. Savvy Radchenko, the company brings both timeless classics to life, articulating the nuances of love through “Symphony of Symphonies.” Hear the stories shoppers know Torpedo Factory Artists @ expressive dance, elegant costumes, and lavish sets. Cost is $56, $48, $34. Visit the website: behind the music with music director Mosaic as a place not only to enjoy fine art but www.cfa.gmu.edu Christopher Zimmerman and special guests also as a great place to purchase art at before the concert at 7 p.m. Visit the website: affordable prices. preschools, elementary, middle and high ages 8 to adult. Learn how to use hand-held http://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/fairfax-symphony- Friday Exercise Classes. Now thru April 3. schools. The Diocese has 37 parish (K-8) Global Positioning System (GPS) units to locate orchestra-beethoven-at-250-soulmates 9:30-10:30 a.m. At Lord of Life Lutheran schools, four diocesan high schools, four hidden caches within Burke Lake Park. Follow Church, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. independent Catholic schools and five free- latitude and longitude coordinates to find a SUNDAY/MARCH 15 Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke offers standing (not connected with a parish school) hidden object, container or unique geological exercise classes for older adults designed to pre-schools, serving more than 17,000 students. feature. Bring your own GPS; a limited number NTRAK Model Train Show. 1-4 p.m. At Fairfax build strength and improve balance and For more information, contact Mallory Sigmon are available to borrow from the instructor at Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station flexibility. All levels of ability are welcome. Call at 703-841-2519 or visit https:// class. The program cost is $22 per person. Call Road, Fairfax Station. The Northern Virginia the SCFB office, 703-426-2824, for class www.arlingtondiocese.org/catholic-schools/ 703-323-6600. NTRAK members will hold a N gauge Train information. (8 weeks, $20). careers/. Stargazing and S’Mores. 8:30-10 p.m. At Burke Display at the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum. Lines and Pauses. Now thru April 5. At Arches Teen Job Fair. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. At Woodson Lake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, Admission: museum members, free; adults 13 Gallery, Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton. “Lines High School 9525 Main Street, Fairfax. Focused Burke. Set your sights on the stars and warm up and over, $5; children 5-12, $3; under 4, free. and Pauses” is the culmination of the works of on students and younger job seekers looking for inside and out with s’mores by a roaring Seniors (65+ and military (active & retired), $4. Marc Pachon captured over the last years with a variety of employment opportunities; full time, campfire at Burke Lake Park. Participants age 3 Call 703-425-9225 or visit the website: local and international dancers and models, tied after-school, seasonal positions, internship to adult can take a stroll along the lakeshore www.fairfax-station.org. together with a common thread of fabric moving opportunities, and volunteer positions. while learning about the constellations, their Capitol Steps Perform. Dessert Reception: 3:30 from one shot to the next, interspersed with his Sponsored by Supervisor Pat Herrity, Supervisor stories and other night-sky features. An p.m.; the Show: 4:30-6 p.m. At Fairfax High freeze-frame captures of moments in time that Dalia Palchik, Supervisor James Walkinshaw, astronomical naturalist will identify stars for you School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax. Benefit for the disappeared as soon as the photograph was Woodson High School, Central Fairfax Chamber and have some telescopes available for you to Shepherd’s Center Serving Oakton-Vienna- taken. Free. Visit the website: of Commerce. use. Then, put the finishing touches on your Reston-Herndon. Folks at the Shepherd’s Center www.byondhelp.com Wilderness Walk. 1-3 p.m. At Burke Lake Park, evening out with a campfire and s’mores. serving Oakton-Vienna-Reston-Herndon are 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. Take a walk on S’mores ingredients will be provided; hot dogs gearing up for another sell-out crowd for this the wild side with the “Burke Lake Wilderness are welcome. Cost is $12 per person. Children event featuring the comedy troupe Capitol SATURDAY/MARCH 7 Walk” for participants age 12 to adult. Explore must be accompanied by a registered adult. Call Steps. No matter who or what is in the Monopoly Tournament. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. At the wilderness area of the park as you visit two 703-323-6600 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ headlines, you can bet the Capitol Steps will Moose Lodge Family Center in Lorton. Nearly old home sites and two vernal pools with a parks/burke-lake. tackle both sides of the political spectrum and 100 players, cheered on by family, friends, and naturalist. Learn about the park’s natural and all things equally foolish. Tickets: $35; day of: volunteers will play three timed rounds of cultural history. Moderate walking is required. $40 cash/credit only. Student (18 and under) Monopoly and compete for cash and prizes - all The cost is $15 per person. Call 703-323-6600. SUNDAY/MARCH 8 Tickets: $15 Day of: $20 cash/credit only. to raise money for the Lorton Community Action Teen Job Fair. 2 to 4 p.m. At South County High A Day at Fairfax Station Railroad Museum. Groups of 10 or more: $30. To purchase tickets: Center (LCAC). Sponsorship Levels: Round 1 - School, 8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton. These 1-4 p.m. At Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, https://www.scov.org/capstepstickets or call the $300 per table; Round 2 - $600 per table (incl. 2 events focused on students and younger job 11200 Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station. hotline at 703-281-0601. free tickets to the event); Round 3 - $1,000 seekers looking for a variety of employment Take the History Challenge or enjoy self-guided WEDNESDAY/MARCH 18 (incl. 4 free tickets to the event). To register / opportunities; full time, after-school, seasonal tours with our Uniguide Audio Tour. Volunteers sponsor / pay / participate or play, go to: positions, internship opportunities, and will conduct 60-minute walking tours of the Education Recruitment Day. 9:30-11 a.m. At https://lortonaction.org/monopoly-tournament/ volunteer positions. Sponsored by Supervisor museum and museum neighborhood to give Dewberry Hall, Johnson Center, 4400 University Catholic Schools Job Fair. 9-11 a.m. At Paul VI Pat Herrity, Supervisor Dan Storck, South visitors an idea of what life was like in a small Drive, Fairfax. This annual recruitment event is High School, 10675 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax. The Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, South County railroad community. Tours begin a career fair for jobs and internships in the field Catholic Diocese of Arlington’s Office of Catholic Federation, and . at 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. No reservations needed. of education! Network with recruiters from the Schools will hold a job fair seeking to fill up to Geocaching Workshop 2 to 4 p.m. At Burke Museum members and ages 4 and under, free; D.C. Metro area and surrounding regions 150 teaching positions. Positions are open in Lake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. For ages 5-12, $3; ages 13 and older, $5; seniors 65 See Calendar, Page 9

8 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar

From Page 8 take a tour of the house and meet parking other food enthusiasts. The (at the front of the building) are free. seeking candidates for a wide range Beginning and Intermediate Hearth Visit of education roles. Free. Visit the Cooking Workshops are now open! http://www.springfieldstampclub.org website: https://mason360.gmu.edu/ Up for a challenge? Register for both Career/rsvp_boot?id=682099 classes and experience a full weekend of 18th century cooking. Cost: $100 - WEDNESDAY/APRIL 8 FRIDAY/MARCH 20 $225. Visit the website: https:// Wednesday at the Movies. At GAMEmason. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. At gunstonhall.org/event/hearth- Cinema Arts Theatre, 9650 Main GMU, Fairfax Campus, 4373 Mason cooking-workshops/ Street, Fairfax. Sponsored by LEGO Model Train Display. Pond Drive, Fairfax. Battle against Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke. friends in a Super Smash Bros. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday Discounted tickets for seniors; $5.50. Ultimate Tournament for a chance to 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. At The Fairfax The group meets after the movie for find yourself on the big stage for the Station Railroad Museum, 11200 a short discussion of the film. finals. Relive childhood fun with an Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station. Transportation may be provided if expanded arcade filled with favorites The Washington, D.C. Metropolitan you call the transportation office like Pinball, Donkey Kong, and many Area LEGO Train Club (WamaLTC) (703-323-4788) a week prior to the more. Experience AR/VR will hold a special two day model movie date. Contact Anne Allen, at demonstrations, attend education train display at the Fairfax Station 703-978-5973, for movie selection panels, Q&A sessions, and keynote Railroad Museum. Please bring any and other details. unwanted LEGO(R) pieces and sets sessions and meet and greets with SATURDAY/APRIL 18 major power players in the gaming for donation to help support Model Classic 2020. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. industry including Tara Stong WamaLTC’s efforts to bring fun and At Fairfax High School, 3501 Rebel (Canadian-American actress and education to all ages through its Run, Fairfax. The Northern Virginia voice actor for Rikku in both Final activities. Museum members and ages Modelers Chapter, International Fantasy X and the popular “Kingdom 4 and under, free; ages 5-12, $3; Plastic Modelers Society presents an Hearts” video game series) and ages 13 and older, $5; seniors 65 and educational and fun event for the Angela Hession (Head of XBOX older and active and retired military, entire family. Cost is $8/adults; $10/ Safety at Microsoft, who has helped $4. Visit the website: www.fairfax- contestant $10/family; free under 18. launch more than 100 games on station.org. SPRINGPEX Stamp Show. Visit the web site: Xbox 360 and Kinect). Visit: https:// Saturday www.novaipms.org si.gmu.edu/gamemason. Admission 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At Robert E. Lee High General Public: $25 general THURSDAY/MARCH 19 admission. School (Cafeteria), 6540 Franconia Road, Springfield. The Springfield Lunch N’ Life. Noon to 2 p.m. At Lord Stamp Club hosts the 50th annual of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 MARCH 21-22 SPRINGPEX. There will be 26 dealers Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. Are You 50 from throughout the Eastern US and or Better? Sponsored by the Hearth Cooking Workshops. 10 Mid-Atlantic region, 50 frames of Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke. a.m. to 4 p.m. At George Mason’s exhibits, specialized club and society Jim Radigan, U.S. Navy Retired will Gunston Hall, 10709 Gunston Road, meetings and display tables, a U.S. discuss his experiences as the Mason Neck. Join in the hearth Postal Service booth, and a special Commanding Officer, U.S. Navy kitchen at Gunston Hall for the kids table with lots of free material Antarctica Squadron. For ultimate experience in slow food as for young stamp collectors. Event reservations, call Bea Stephenson at you learn to employ 18th-century covers (special envelopes) will 703-273-5730, by March 13. The cost cooking techniques and recipes to commemorate the 50th Anniversary is $10.; checks payable to SCFB. If create period dishes. Use your hearth of Earth Day, and the 100th transportation is needed, call the skills to investigate complex recipes Anniversary of Woman’s Suffrage/ SCFB office 703-323-4788. See while cooking over an open flame, 19th Amendment. Admission and www.scfbva.org.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 ❖ 9 Money For Bulletin Board

What, Exactly? Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at By KENNETH B. LOURIE least two weeks before event.

2LUU`PZJ\YYLU[S`V\[VM[OLVMÄJL7SLHZLLUQV` SUNDAY/MAY 17 this previously written article from July 2019: Psychic Fair. 9-5 p.m. At Arlington-Fairfax Elks Lodge, 8421 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax. Presumably, most of you readers are aware Psychic Fair for both those who are serious and that many supermarkets have a rack located for those who are just curious. Event can be a somewhere near the rear of the store that is life-changing experience or just a fun time Many stocked with off-price merchandise: discontin- of the best psychics, mediums, healers, and ued items, items with damaged packaging, out readers of all types, along with related arts and crafts vendors from Virginia and the of season products, etc. Over the years, I have surrounding areas. Note: 75% of tables offer been a regular checker of this rack looking for some type of readings, 25% of tables offer such bargains. I have purchased breakfast cereal, related arts, crafts, books, oils, crystals, sage, soup, cookies, candy, and miscellaneous other herbs. information, jewelry, etc. There will be 44 non-perishables. I’ve even purchased two bags vendors, All under one roof, all in one room, of Kingsford charcoal. In addition, I’ve seen indoor event, free parking. Cost: $5 in advance household products, health and beauty, school $10 at the door. Visit the website: https://va- supplies; and everything else you can imagine, psychic-fair-2020.eventbrite.com running the gamut from “A” to “Z,” for sale. SUPPORT GROUPS Recently however, in this rack I saw a product Parent Support Partners, a service of the I’m not sure I even thought was available to the Healthy Minds Fairfax initiative, are all parents general public, and if it was, would not have who have received training and are qualitied to thought buying it from the discontinued mer- offer education, support and assistance at no chandise rack at the supermarket would not have cost to families or caregivers. They provide been the way to go. But what do I know? As has reliable information that families can use in been proven many times: not much. decision-making and are familiar with services The item? A DNA Paternity Test Kit. I guess and resources that can help families in distress. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ I thought, if this test was necessary, it would healthymindsfairfax or www.nami- involve a physician or at least be administered northernvirginia.org/parent-peer-support.html. by a health care professional and/or involve Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke sponsors witnesses/legal representation (at least a notary). a monthly meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of each Going to the supermarket or even the drug store? month, noon-1:30 p.m., for caregivers to learn And then testing yourself without necessarily and to share with others experiencing similar knowing the precautions and proper procedures challenges. Before attending, contact the appropriate for the task at hand? There seems facilitator, Eileen Thompson at 703-451-8626 or [email protected]. as if there’s a bit more at stake here than an at- Haven of Northern Virginia provides support, home pregnancy test, a test with which many of compassion, information and resources to the us are familiar. But DNA testing at home? What bereaved and seriously ill. To become a Haven is this, the Maury Povich Show? volunteer, please call 703-941-7000 to request Having not traveled down this particular road an orientation. Volunteers must complete a 30- myself, perhaps I’m unaware of the realities. hour training and commit to one year of service All I know is what I’ve seen on television or answering Haven phones (2.5 hours weekly). read about in the papers. I guess I just assumed Next training is scheduled for fall 2017. (generally a bad thing), that the steps one takes ONGOING [V]LYPM`JVUÄYTYLZVS]LWH[LYUP[`[`WLPZZ\LZ STEM Professionals Needed. Volunteers are were a bit more involved than a visit to the needed to assist K-12 STEM teachers in northern supermarket. Apparently, this subject is just Virginia as part of the American Association for another where I know very little about, like tools the Advancement of Science’s STEM Volunteer and how to use them, automobile repair, home Program, stemvolunteers.org, during the 2019- maintenance, lawn and garden, cooking, and on 20 school year, beginning in September. Please and on and on. But enough about me. contact Don Rea at 571-551-2488 or [email protected]. What about those wanting answers to extraor- Docents Needed. Sundays 1-4 p.m. at the Fairfax dinarily important questions: Who’s the father? Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station And is that my child? Looks can be deceiving Road in Fairfax Station. Greet museum visitors so a professional, or so I thought, incorrectly, and tell them about the exhibits, the museum is brought in to oversee the process. Nope. No and the its railroad and Civil War history. Ideal professional need apply. Just go to your local for those interested in railroads, the Civil War “chemist,” as they say in England. No need to and Northern Virginia history. Training and visit “the surgery,” as they also say over there. orientation provided. Other volunteer 1\Z[ÄUKHIV_^P[O[OLYPNO[SL[[LYZVUP[HUK opportunities are gardening, publicity and exhibit planning. Call 703-945-7483. go back to your home/work and swab, stick, Haven of Northern Virginia is committed to pin-prick or whatever and the results will be offering, support, compassion, information and known soon enough if you or someone else is resources to the bereaved and seriously ill. whomever they claim to be or not to be. That is Volunteers provide individual and group support the question which begs an answer. Shakespeare to those suffering from a loss. Volunteers must notwithstanding participate in a 30 hour training. Training will It seems only fair that one’s birthright should be offered in October 2018. To volunteer, call be gotten wrong. And not that home-testing Haven at 703-941-7000. Assistance League of Northern Virginia is an can’t be trusted. Just the opposite. Nevertheless, all-volunteer nonprofit organization that feeds, some things, like circumcisions, though they can clothes and educates children in need. be performed at home (see “Shaky the mohel” Assistance League’s philanthropic programs from a long ago Seinfeld episode). I would have touch the lives of thousands of children, thought, a DNA Paternity test, given the need/ including those at 11 Title 1 elementary schools ^HU[VMHYLZVS\[PVUJSHYPÄJH[PVU^OPJOJV\SK in Fairfax and Prince William counties and the possibly impact multiple individuals/families City of Alexandria. There are many volunteer over generations, be similarly performed in the opportunities for community members to contribute to helping those in need through most careful of conditions. This kind of test has Weekend Food for Kids, tutoring programs and no margin for error - or humor. “Bought the kit providing new clothing and layettes. To learn in the discount rack at my local supermarket.” Is more, email: [email protected], or visit that the answer you want to give when all eyes www.alnv.org are on you? And saying how much you saved Docents Needed. Sundays 1-4 p.m. at the Fairfax over regular price is unlikely to endear you to Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station any and all of the interested parties on hand. Road in Fairfax Station. Greet museum visitors After all, money really isn’t the issue. and tell them about the exhibits, the museum and its railroad and Civil War history. Ideal for those interested in railroads, the Civil War and Northern Virginia history. Training and Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for orientation provided. Other volunteer The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. opportunities are gardening, publicity and exhibit planning. Call 703-945-7483. 10 ❖ Burke Connection ❖ March 5-11, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com FOR YOUR TOYOTA

WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’S PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE

ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA

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