candidates for state delegate in 34th districtconnection.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/... ·...

18 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ October 28 - November 3, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Kathleen Murphy(D-34)*IncumbentTown of residence: McLeanFamily: My husband Bill Sudow and I are

parents to six childrenEducation: BA Graduated Magna Cum

Laude from American UniversityOffices held, dates: Delegate, 34th

District (January 2015 - Present)Occupation and relevant

experience: I am currently Presidentof Johnson Murphy & Associates where I buildlegislative strategies for companies andnonprofits. I served as Associate Staff onAppropriations for Congressman Charlie Wilsonand handled Defense and Foreign Affairs, servedas Congressional Liaison for United StatesAgency for International Development, and wasappointed Senior Advisor at the InternationalTrade Administration in the US Department ofCommerce.

Community involvement: I am a member of theMcLean Citizens Association, the McLeanCommunity Foundation, and serve on thefundraising board for the Cystic FibrosisFoundation. I served on the Human ServicesCouncil for Fairfax County and on the FairfaxCounty Health Care Task Force. I am theDemocratic Party Precinct Co-Captain forLangley precinct.

Website: www.murphyfordelegate.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @kmurphyvaName three favorite endorsements: Fairfax

Chamber’s NOVABizPAC, Virginia EducationAssociation, Northern Virginia Association ofRealtors

QUESTIONS:1. What is one issue that defines your

call to serve, why does it matter, andhow will you tackle it?

I care about our community and felt that ourpriorities and values needed strong representa-tion. I am committed to fighting for the issuesimportant to our community including for morefunding for our schools. I will be introducing abill to reform the Local Composite Index in thenext session of the House of Delegates.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponent(s) and why should voterschoose you?

I have the experience, commitment and theability to work in a bipartisan way to achieveconsensus. I have lived here and raised kidshere. I know the issues, the values, and thepriorities of this community. I have worked forthem for nearly 25 years. I know the legislativeprocess and will work hard to achieve positiveand productive change for our community.

3. Given the political makeup of thestate legislature, what examples fromyour own experience suggests you cansuccessfully bridge the intense partisan

differences there?I have successfully

worked across party linesand my legislative recorddemonstrates that. This pastsession I cosponsored, andvoted for, importantlegislation introduced byRepublicans and Democratsand didn’t let partisanshipget in the way of doing whatwas right for our district.

4. In order, list yourtop 5 specific legislative

priorities.1. Reforming the funding formulas for our

schools2. Fighting for Northern Virginia’s fair share of

transportation funding3. Ensuring we are business friendly and help

small business have access to capital4. Protecting our children and families from

gun violence5. Promoting renewable energy and other

innovative technologies

5. How has your district changed in thelast 10 years? What caused thosechanges?

The population of Northern Virginia hasincreased significantly over the last 10 years.New residents are drawn, to our districtspecifically, by our quality of life and excellentschool system. The extension of the Silver Lineand the growth of the Tysons Corner businesscommunity are also contributing factors. Simply,the 34th is a great place to live and we need towork to ensure we provide the quality servicesare growing community deserves.

6. Will you support legislation restrict-ing high interest lending including cartitle loans?

Yes. With more than 460 car-title loanoperations in Virginia and interest rates reachingas high as 300%, this abusive high-interestlending must be addressed.

7. Will you support funding for Foster-ing Connections which would result inan influx of federal funding for fosterchildren aging out of foster care?

Yes. I am very supportive of measures thatprotect and support our most vulnerable childrenwho are aging out of foster care. Virginia hasalready made great strides in educationalstability for children in foster care but there ismore work to be done.

8. Do you support expansion of Medic-aid under the Affordable Care Act, and ifso, what would you do to make thathappen?

Yes. I support Medicaid expansion because itis morally right and fiscally responsible. I willvote for expansion and I will continue toadvocate for it in Richmond and in the 34thdistrict.

Craig A. Parisot(R)Challenger, House of Delegates

District 34Town of residence: McLeanAge: 41Family: Wife Kristin, Son JacksonEducation: Bachelor of Arts from

the University of South Carolina,MBA from California StatePolytechnic University and post-graduate work at Harvard’sKennedy School of Government

Occupation and relevant experience: Mr.Parisot is the President and Chief ExecutiveOfficer of his third start up. He previously heldexecutive leadership roles in two technologystart ups, successfully growing and selling both,and was a founder and the Executive VicePresident and Chief Strategy Officer of AltamiraTechnologies Corporation

Community involvement: Mr. Parisot served inthe United States Air Force in a combination ofactive duty and reserve roles from 1996 to 2005working on science and technology programs,eventually separating at the rank of Captain.Craig is a current board member of VolunteerFairfax and its most recent past President.Volunteer Fairfax focuses on developing leadersand promoting volunteerism in the region, andmobilizes Fairfax County’s volunteer resourcesin the face of a natural disaster or other crisis.Craig is also on the Board of Directors of theWorld Police and Fire Games, which created an$83 million positive economic impact for theregion. He also sits on the boards of other for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.

Website: www.craigparisot.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @craigparisotName three favorite endorsements: National

Federation of Independent Business, FairfaxChamber of Commerce NOVA BizPac, and PoliceBenevolent Association


call to serve, why does it matter, and howwill you tackle it?

Service before self is a deeply held value of greatimportance to me and as a third generation vet-eran, service has a long tradition in my family. Ibelieve in the idea of the citizen legislator. That ifwe, as ordinary citizens, have something to offerour state or country in a time of need that it is ourcivic responsibility to offer ourselves in service toour neighbors. I think deeply about the challengeswe face and, working together, will figure out waysto make meaningful progress to make our commu-nity stronger and safer.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponent(s) and why should voters chooseyou?

This race for Delegate is one of stark contrast.I’m a Business Leader, having built two advancedtechnology companies, I deployed lifesaving tech-nologies for our soldiers and first responders,promoted women into key executive leadershiproles, and have provided salaries and health ben-efits for hundreds of families. I have first-handexperience in the technologies central to the North-ern Virginia innovation economy, and essential toour future.

3. Given the political makeup of the statelegislature, what examples from your ownexperience suggests you can successfully

bridge the intense partisandifferences there?

I have always been one to run to-wards hard problems, both as an AirForce Officer and as a business ex-ecutive. I have always been goaloriented. In business, you can’t justwalk away from the table. You mustfind solutions. We need a Delegatein Richmond with the experienceand capacity to act. As a member ofthe majority, I have the ability to getthings done — not as a partisan, buton the merits of the proposed solu-tions to our most urgent problems.

The Virginia way has always been one whereelected officials and leaders across the state worktogether to get things done. This will be one ofmany things you will gain by sending me to Rich-mond.

4. In order, list your top 5 specific legis-lative priorities.

Invest in Public Education; Reduce commutetimes; Fight tolls on I-66 inside the beltway; Im-prove Virginia’s business climate; Pursue growthopportunities in the high technology sector

5. How has your district changed in thelast 10 years? What caused those changes?

Our area is a very attractive place for people tolive. Although, due to our proximity to the federalgovernment, sequestration has had a devastatingimpact to our economy. Our cost of living contin-ues to rise while traffic worsens. We must grow anddiversify our economy, make the necessary invest-ments in public education and solve the region’stransportation problems. These are economic andquality of life issues. I am concerned about greatpeople leaving our region because we have failedto address these issues in a meaningful way.

6. Will you support legislation restrictinghigh interest lending including car titleloans?

Virginia has made some progress in this area, butthe question is have we done enough. I believe infinding the right balance between free market prin-ciples and providing accessibility to financingalternatives.

7. Will you support funding for FosteringConnections which would result in an in-flux of federal funding for foster childrenaging out of foster care?

I fully support ensuring that foster children arenot forgotten about when they become youngadults. We need to make sure those that truly needour help receive it. While I would not be opposedto federal funding, we must find ways to reduce ourdependence on Washington.

8. Do you support expansion of Medicaidunder the Affordable Care Act, and if so,what would you do to make that happen?

We should focus on providing for people’shealthcare needs exploring the array of alternativesavailable. The only responsible conversation abouta solution incorporates the long term impact to theVirginia taxpayer and reducing our reliance on thefederal government. Medicaid currently represents21% of Virginia’s budget and is our fastest grow-ing line item. Simply expanding a broken systemis not a long term solution. I have concerns aboutboth the quality and cost of care and we musttackle the matter of reimbursement rates andfraud, waste and abuse. Virginia makes a signifi-cant investment annually in the healthcare safetynet to ensure everyone receives the help they needand we should continue taking this approach whilepursuing necessary reforms.

Candidates for State Delegate in 34th DistrictElection ’15

In-Person Absentee Voting: Vote EarlyIn-Person Absentee Voting Fairfax County Government Center• Fairfax County Governmental Center Location, Conference Room 2/3, 12000 Govern-ment Center Pkwy., Fairfax, VA 22035Through Oct. 30: extended hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31: 9 - 5.• In-Person Absentee Satellite Voting Through Oct. 30 - Weekdays: Monday - Friday, 3:30p.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Satellite Locations:• McLean Governmental Center - 1437 Balls Hill Road, Community Room, McLean, 22101• North County Governmental Center - 1801 Cameron Glen Drive, Community Rooms,Reston, 20190

Vote Nov. 3See more election coverage and questionnaires at

www.ConnectionNewspapers.comClick on Elections on the navigation bar.

McLean Connection ❖ October 28 - November 3, 2015 ❖ 19www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Election ’15

Barbara Favola(D)Senate District 31 IncumbentTown of residence: ArlingtonAge: 60Family: Married to Doug Weik with

one son, Donald PatrickEducation: BS, Saint Joseph

College in West Hartford, CT1977; MPA, New York University,New York, NY 1980

Offices held, dates: ArlingtonCounty Board Member 1997 through 2011; VAState Senator 2011 to 2015

Occupation and relevant experience:Government Relations and Community OutreachConsultant

Community involvement: Board Member of:Child & Family Network Centers, ArlingtonYMCA, Culpepper Garden, Fairfax CourtAppointed Special Advocate Program and theVirginia School for the Deaf and Blind

Website: BarbaraFavola.orgEmail: [email protected] handle: @BarbaraFavolaName three favorite endorsements: Virginia

Education Association; League of ConservationVoters and NARAL

QUESTIONS:1.What is one issue that defines your call

to serve, why does it matter, and how willyou tackle it?

The need to provide each child with a qualityeducation is the issue that calls me to service. I willwork on increasing State funding for early child-hood education, for K-12 services and for earlyspecial education programs.


I bring nearly 20 years of compassionate effec-tive leadership. I served on the Arlington CountyBoard for 14 years and I just completed a 4-yearterm in the State Senate. As a freshman senator, Ipassed over 20 bills and I continue to remain ac-tive in the community. My opponent moved to thedistrict one year ago.

3. Given the politicalmakeup of the state legisla-ture, what examples from yourown experience suggest youcan successfully bridge the in-tense partisan differencesthere?

The fact that I successfully passedimportant pieces of legislation is anindication that I can effectively workacross party lines.

4. In order, list your top 5specific legislative priorities.

Improving K-12 Education, Investing in Pre-School, Participating in Medicaid Expansion,Improving Workforce Training and better fundingHigher Education.


My district has become increasingly diverse andthe public school systems in Arlington, Fairfax andLoudoun are struggling to ensure that high schoolgraduation rates remain high and that higher edu-cation options are available to everyone.

6. Will you support legislation restrict-ing high interest lending including car titleloans?

Yes.


Yes. I have introduced this legislation for the pastthree years. In 2014, the General Assembly passedauthorizing legislation to permit Virginia’s partici-pation. However, State funding was not madeavailable. I am working with Governor McAuliffeto include this program in his budget.


Absolutely! I have been working to make Med-icaid Expansion a reality in the Commonwealth forthe past three years. I will work to build a strongcoalition of support that includes Republican lean-ing organizations.

George V. Forakis(R)Challenger, Senate District 31Town of residence: ArlingtonAge: 26Education: University of Maryland;

Robert H. Smith School of Business,B.S. Finance & Accounting

Occupation and relevantexperience: Financial / NationalSecurity Consulting

Community involvement: Board ofDirectors – local environmental non-profit

Website: www.forakisforsenate.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @GeorgeForakis



Virginia, and more specifically Northern Vir-ginia, faces the increasing challenge of providinga steady source of jobs that are not reliant on thefederal government. This includes attracting bothnew and expanding businesses — in Northern Vir-ginia, the evidence of this challenge is clear —vacant office space and a continued reliance onfederal spending are issues that must be addressedas we move forward. This issue defines my call toserve the people of Virginia’s 31st district; for toolong, our representatives have avoided tackling thedifficult issues that affect a majority of our popu-lation. These economic challenges can beaddressed with a variety of approaches, includinglower taxes, decreased regulation, investment ininfrastructure, and cultivating an overall business-friendly environment. The advantages of thisapproach are widespread and include lower indi-vidual taxes across all levels of income, andimproved infrastructure, such as roads and com-munications systems, that will benefit everyone.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponent(s) and why should voters chooseyou? I have not spent my professional career in anelected position, and as such, my commitments aresimple and unwavering — I will make sure that thepeople of the Northern Virginia are represented theway that they want to be represented, not the waythat special interests groups and politicians wouldlike them to be. To the people of this district: Ipromise to listen to you (yes, all of you — regard-less of whether you are in the heart of Arlington orthe neighborhoods of Fairfax and Loudoun Coun-ties).

3. Given the political makeup of the statelegislature, what examples from your ownexperience suggests you can successfullybridge the intense partisan differencesthere?

The state legislature, much like Congress and therest of Washington, faces challenges stemmingfrom partisan differences and stubborn, self-serv-

ing agendas. While I hold trueto many of my party’s values,I am not afraid to share myperspective as a member ofthe next generation of lead-ers. My issue agenda reflectsa conservative approach witha willingness to consider anevolving landscape, both inour state and in our country.I am committed to represent-ing the people of this districtand am prepared to bringcommon-sense leadership to

the legislature.4. In order, list your top 5 specific legis-

lative priorities.❖ Creating jobs through economic development

initiatives ❖ Reduce the tax burden on the middleclass by cutting waste and prioritizing spending ❖Improving infrastructure to alleviate traffic/con-gestion, allowing for a better quality of life andpositive secondary economic effects ❖ Invest in alllevels of education, including higher education andhigh-quality vocational programs for students whodo not want to, or are unable to attend four-yearprograms. ❖ Alternative energy sources and cleannuclear power


Until “sequestration” in 2013, the population inthis district (and Northern Virginia in general) wasgrowing at an incredible rate. The federal budgetcuts and subsequent slow in growth that occurredtwo years ago, however, illuminated that fact thatwe are too heavily reliant on D.C.’s fiscal policy andare in desperate need of our own economy. Indeed,we will always be home to defense contractors andIT professionals — but we must ensure that wecreate an environment that encourages all types ofbusinesses to participate in the economy.

6. Will you support legislation restrictinghigh interest lending including car titleloans?

Yes. Part of our job as legislators is to protect thepeople that we represent and we are obligated toprevent businesses from taking advantage of Vir-ginia families, even if it means puttingcommon-sense limitations on the free market.


Yes. Assistance to these families, especially con-sidering that they may be considering/alreadyenrolled in higher education at the time of agingout, is critical in shaping the futures of our fosterchildren.


Instead of Medicaid expansion, I support solu-tions that give Virginia citizens options and willwork to support proactively-focused and less costlypreventative care.

Candidates for State Senate in District 31

Virginia Law allows voters to vote absen-tee if they could be “working and commut-ing for 11 or more hours between 6 a.m.and 7 p.m. on Election Day.”

You’re allowed to count your worst pos-sible commute in estimating how manyhours you might be working and commut-ing on Election Day. If you qualify, you canvote early in-person, see sidebar above.

On Election Day, Nov. 3, polls are openfrom 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.

You can check your registration statusonline by going to www.sbe.virginia.gov.

Each voter in Fairfax County can makechoices in one State Senate district, one

In-Person Absentee Voting: Vote EarlyIn-Person Absentee Voting Fairfax County Government Center• Fairfax County Governmental Center Location, Conference Room 2/3, 12000 Govern-ment Center Pkwy., Fairfax, VA 22035Through Oct. 30: extended hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31: 9 - 5.• In-Person Absentee Satellite Voting Through Oct. 30 - Weekdays: Monday - Friday, 3:30p.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Satellite Locations:• McLean Governmental Center - 1437 Balls Hill Road, Community Room, McLean, 22101• North County Governmental Center - 1801 Cameron Glen Drive, Community Rooms,Reston, 20190

Information on VotingHouse of Delegates district, Clerk of theCourt, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Sheriff,Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Dis-trict member of the Board of Supervisors,Fairfax County School Board at Large (votefor 3); District School Board member; Soiland Water Conservation Board (vote for 3);School Bond for $310 million, Public SafetyBond for $151 million. http://www. fa i r faxcounty.gov/e lec t ions/upcoming.htm

It’s also worth noting that new, more re-strictive voter identification regulationstook effect last year. Voters arriving to thepolls without required photo ID will be al-

lowed to vote a provisional ballot and willhave until noon on the Friday after the elec-tion to deliver a copy of identification totheir locality’s electoral board in order fortheir provisional ballot to be counted. PhotoID requirements also apply to absentee vot-ers who vote in-person in all elections.

Here are the “acceptable” forms of iden-tification: Valid Virginia Driver’s License orIdentification Card; valid Virginia DMV is-sued Veteran’s ID card; valid U.S. Passport;Other government-issued photo identifica-tion cards (U.S. government or Virginia);valid Virginia college or university studentphoto identification card; employee identi-fication card containing a photograph of thevoter; Virginia Voter Photo ID Card obtainedthrough any local general registrar’s office.

“Valid” is defined as a genuine document,bearing the photograph of the voter, and isnot expired for more than 12 months.

Any registered voter may apply for a freeVirginia Voter Photo Identification from anygeneral registrar’s office in the Common-wealth. Voters applying for the VirginiaVoter Photo ID Card will have to completethe Virginia Voter Photo Identification CardApplication, have their picture taken, andsign the digital signature pad.

For More Election InformationFairfax County Board of Elections, 703-

222-0776, http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/upcoming.htm

12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax,Suite 232, Fairfax, 22035; FAX 703-324-2205;email [email protected]

14 ❖ McLean Connection ❖ October 21-27, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Sharon Bulova (D)IncumbentTown of residence: FairfaxAge: 67Family: Married. Between

my husband and I we have:four adult children and sevengrandchildren.

Education: AAS Degree inBusiness Management fromNorthern VA CommunityCollege, attended businessclasses, UVA evening program,previously held Real Estatelicense

Offices held, dates:Elected Braddock (then calledAnnandale) District Supervisorin 1987. In February 2009elected Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. Re-elected in2011.

Occupation and relevant experience: I am a fulltime Chairman. Prior to elected office I held positions inbusiness.

Community involvement: I came to local governmentthrough my work as Civic Association president of KingsPark West. I have been a member of the Annandale Rotary,how serving as an honorary member. I am a founder ofFaith Communities in Action and collaborated on twocommunity history projects: A Look Back at Braddock andthe Asian American History Project.

Website: http://sharonbulova.com/Email address: [email protected] handle: http:twitter.com/sharonbulovaName three favorite endorsements: FEA (Fairfax

Education Association), Fairfax County Chamber ofCommerce, Sierra Club

QUESTIONS:1. What is one issue that defines your call to

serve, why does it matter, and how will you tackleit?

I love local government and feel strongly about commu-nity engagement. In my roles as Braddock Supervisor andnow Chairman I have been committed to making sure ourcommunity is at the table with local government toparticipate in resolving issues and addressing our chal-lenges. A major challenge right now is the sluggish recoverywe are experiencing from the Great Recession. My goal is tostrike the right balance between maintaining taxes that areaffordable to our residents while investing what is neededto ensure a world class school system, safe streets andneighborhoods, compassionate human services, a cleanenvironment and quality of life services like libraries andour fantastic park system.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponent(s) and why should voters choose you?

I have the experience, the commitment and the enthusi-asm to serve as Fairfax County’s chairman. I believe I havethe collaborative skill set needed to lead our Board and ourcommunity on an even, positive course.

3. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the local school system. A significantbudget gap looms for the next budget cycle, bothfor FCPS and Fairfax County. What are the topcounty priorities and how will you assure fundingand manage the budget? What ideas do you havefor increasing revenue? Name two areas/itemsyou would cut or reduce.

Education continues to be my highest priority. It ishowever, not my only priority. It is critical that we continueto be the safest jurisdiction of our size in the U.S. and thatwe maintain the quality of life our residents value. Begin-ning in January our newly elected Board will engage in amulti-year Lines of Business process to examine all of ourservices in order to identify opportunities for efficienciesand savings. We have invited the School Board to partici-pate with us in this process. I am hopeful that, workingtogether, we will find new ways to economize on resourcesand improve on the delivery of services to families andstudents.

4. How many hours a week of outside employ-ment do you anticipate while serving on theBoard of Supervisors?

I am a full time Chairman. I work well over 40 hours perweek plus countless hours of community and regionalactivities.

Glenda Gail‘for Rail’ Parker (I)

Town of residence:Alexandria, FairfaxCounty

Age: 68Family: Three grown

children, four Grand–children

Education: MBAwith a certificate inSoftware EngineeringAdministration

Offices held, dates:Elected to Vice– Chair,Independent Greens ofVirginia (2007 toPresent); elected to COG TPB CAC (2007–2010)

Occupation and relevant experience:Governmental Budget Analyst, Businesswoman

Community involvement: Fairfax Federation CivicAssociation Committee, Public Safety Chair (approxi-mately 2009–2010)

Website: www.GailParker.USEmail address: [email protected] handle: @ggailparkerName three favorite endorsements:

Independent Greens of Virginia

QUESTIONS:1. What is one issue that defines your call

to serve, why does it matter, and how willyou tackle it?

The Independent Green Party Green New Deal willget us on the right track. The Green New Deal meansdouble– digit job growth in Eco jobs for the economy.Solar jobs. Wind jobs. Geothermal jobs. Rail jobs. TheGreen New Deal means Bike share for Fairfax County.Bikes, like rail, increase the value of our homes,businesses, and communities. The Green New Dealwill bring Electronic VRE signs for commuters. TheGreen New Deal means New Tracks, More Trains,More often to More Places. The Green New Deal issolar panels, and geothermal heating and cooling forevery public building. Renewable energy makesmoney for taxpayers.


My advocacy for Rail and renewable energy.Investments in Green Energy make money. The solarage is here and we want on–board! It is past time tobring the Green Revolution to Fairfax County.

3. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the local school system. A signifi-cant budget gap looms for the next budgetcycle, both for FCPS and Fairfax County.What are the top county priorities and howwill you assure funding and manage thebudget? What ideas do you have for increas-ing revenue? Name two areas/items youwould cut or reduce.

The infrastructure budget has too many subsidiesto big oil, big asphalt, big auto, fossil fuels. Giving ahalf a trillion dollars in taxpayer subsidies annuallyworldwide to big oil is fiscal lunacy. Cut andreprioritize the infrastructure budget to invest in freesolar energy and geothermal energy. Work harmoni-ously with the School Board to place money where itwill do the most good, fund education costs andteacher salaries rather than administration costs.Build Rail: Rail will grow revenues by growing theeconomy. Rail increases the value of our homes,businesses and communities. Every $1 invested inRail returns $20 to the community!

4. How many hours a week of outsideemployment do you anticipate while servingon the Board of Supervisors?

The new salary voted by the Board will allow me todevote full time to BOS duties.

Arthur Purves (R)Town of residence: ViennaAge: 66Family: Married 42 years, two children, seven

grandchildrenEducation: BA, MS, MBA University of PennsylvaniaOffices held, dates: N/AOccupation and relevant experience: Computer

ProgrammerCommunity involvement: -President, Fairfax County Taxpayers Alliance since

1996-Member, Fairfax County Meals Tax Task Force (2014)-Member, Hunter Mill Citizen Budget Committee

(2013)-Treasurer, Fairfax Committee 100-Member Fairfax Branch, NAACP-Past member of three Fairfax County Public Schools

advisory committees-Scoutmaster

Website: votepurves.orgEmail address: [email protected] handle: agpurvesName three favorite endorsements: Del. Tim Hugo and Loudoun Supervisor

Eugene Delgaudio

QUESTIONS:1. What is one issue that defines your call to serve, why does it

matter, and how will you tackle it?Only 59% of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) seniors are prepared for college,

and the percent prepared varies from 75% for Langley High School to 20% for Leeand Mt. Vernon High Schools. In a quarter of a century FCPS has made no progress inclosing the minority student achievement gap: only 35% of Hispanic and 20% ofAfrican-American FCPS seniors are prepared for college. Even if you don’t go tocollege, being prepared for college makes you better qualified for a good job. Thesolution is better instruction in the basics; not more money. As county chairman Iwould hold the school board accountable for achievement when the school boardmakes its annual $2B budget request.

2. What distinguishes you from your opponent(s) and why shouldvoters choose you?

The incumbent chairman:For 16 years has raised real estate taxes three times faster than household income,

which is unaffordable, especially for seniors;Does not hold the schools accountable for achievement;Is indifferent to the disproportionate incarceration of Hispanics and African-

Americans in the county jail;Sat silent for 17 months while the police department refused to disclose the details

of the shooting of an unarmed civilian by a police officer on August 29, 2013;Neglected maintenance of the now unsafe and unreliable Metrorail system to build

the Silver Line;Since 2000 cut staffing of libraries and parks by 112 positions while adding 145

clerks to handle public assistance applications, for a total of 354 public assistancepositions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job growth in Fairfax County was closeto last of the 342 largest U.S. counties last year. I will grow jobs by cutting taxes;using the chairman’s pulpit to advocate for higher achievement, including Hispanicand African-American achievement, through better curricula; being transparent; andmaking Metrorail repairs my highest transportation priority.

3. More than half of the county budget is devoted to the local schoolsystem. A significant budget gap looms for the next budget cycle, bothfor FCPS and Fairfax County. What are the top county priorities andhow will you assure funding and manage the budget? What ideas do youhave for increasing revenue? Name two areas/items you would cut orreduce.

For FY2017 the county and schools want to increase spending by $240M whilerevenues are projected to increase only $20M without a real estate tax hike. Thispredicament demonstrates the need for new leadership. Seventy percent of thespending increase is for raises (3.5% for county and 4% for school employees),Cadillac health plans, and pensions with retirement at 55. My opponent would raisereal estate taxes 9%, pushing the typical homeowner’s real estate tax from $5,700 to$6,200. She raised real estate taxes 8% last year. For 16 years the supervisors havebeen increasing taxes three times faster than household income. Since 2000, whileschool enrollment has increased 22%, the school budget increased 100%. County andschool spending for health and pension benefits increased $700M since 2000; that is$400M more than needed to keep up with inflation, population, and enrollment. For16 years the average annual raise for 30,000 county and school employees has been4%. To pay for these raises and benefits, the supervisors have been increasing realestate taxes three times faster than household income. The revenue from the tax hikeswas not enough to pay for the raises and benefits, so park and library staffing was cutand class sizes increased. And now teachers and police cannot afford the $6,000 realestate taxes that were increased to pay for their own raises and benefits. To makeFairfax County affordable again, we need to cut taxes by reducing benefits and givingsmaller raises, as is the case with private-sector employees.

4. How many hours a week of outside employment do you anticipatewhile serving on the Board of Supervisors?

I can retire and be a full-time chairman.

Candidates for Chairman of the Board of SupervisorsElection ‘15

The Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is the only at-large member of the nine-member board. Every resident is represented by the Chairman and their district supervisor. Question-naires are also available on our website, www.connectionnewspapers.com.

McLean Connection ❖ October 21-27, 2015 ❖ 15www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Jennifer Chronis (R)Town of residence: Great FallsAge: 48Family: Husband: Brian Dickson; Stepson:

Riley Dickson, Stepdaughter: Jordan PrincipeEducation: BS, Commerce, University of

VirginiaOffices held, dates: N/AOccupation and relevant experience:

Vice President, IBM; Lieutenant Colonel(Retired), US Army; Board of Directors,Armed Forces Communications & ElectronicsAssociation, Washington DC Chapter;Information Technology Fellow, AmericanCouncil for Technology-Industry AdvisoryCouncil

Community involvement: NorthernVirginia Literacy Council Volunteer Tutor

Website: JenniferChronis.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @JenniferChronisName three favorite endorsements:

Congressman Frank Wolf, Congressman TomDavis, Congresswoman Barbara Comstock

QUESTIONS1. What is one issue that defines your


Public service is central to my life. I served myCountry and my community as a US Army officerfor 21 years. As Supervisor, I look forward tocontinuing my life of service. Our greatestchallenge in Fairfax County is the need forstronger fiscal management and prioritization ofour County’s resources. With property taxincreases of nearly 17% in the last three yearsalone, over $200M in projected 2017 deficits($100M in FCPS), and an economy that saw only.4% job growth in 2014, we face seriouschallenges to sustain our quality of life. OurBoard needs strong leaders with businessexperience who can make tough decisions abouthow to prioritize spending while also growingour economy. I have both the military leadershipand business experience to bring people togetherto address these challenges, and to hold theCounty and Board accountable for executing onactions and programs that deliver tangibleresults.


I am a military leader who knows how tomake tough decisions, put the needs of othersbefore my own, and get things done. I am also abusiness executive who understands theimportance of achieving financial targets anddelivering value for every tax dollar. I will bringa fresh perspective to the Board and a business-minded approach to solving our greatestchallenges and ensuring that we deliver measur-able results for taxpayers. Unlike my opponent, Iwould not have voted for tax increases amount-ing to 17% over the last three years while alsounderfunding our schools by $100 million. And Iwould not have voted to increase my own pay by

27%, when we arekeeping our teachers’salaries practically flat.This is not what Ilearned as leadershipin my military andbusiness career and Iwill make betterdecisions forDranesville residents.

3. More than halfof the county budget is devoted to thelocal school system. A significant budgetgap looms for the next budget cycle,both for FCPS and Fairfax County. Whatare the top county priorities and howwill you assure funding and manage thebudget? What ideas do you have forincreasing revenue? Name two areas/items you would cut or reduce.

My top priority is to ensure that our schoolsremain the best in the country. I will workclosely with the School Board to focus resourceson students and teachers first. We need toreduce administrative costs and invest more inour teachers, as many of our best teachers aredeparting Fairfax for neighboring school systemsthat offer higher salaries.

My second priority is to strengthen theCounty’s fiscal and economic health. The Boardhas continuously raised property taxes, tocompensate for weakness in our commercialproperty market. We must fill the 19 millionsquare feet of empty office space in the Countyto grow our commercial tax revenue and relievethe tax burden on homeowners. We must makethe County more business-friendly by streamlin-ing our permitting and regulatory processes andpartnering with our EDA to attract new indus-tries like cybersecurity, healthcare, and IT to theCounty.

Finally, I will apply commercial best practicesto county spending. We must consider imple-mentation of shared services for administrativefunctions like HR, IT, finance, accounting, andcontracting between the County and FCPS.Secondly, we must closely examine our pensionsystem for new employees to determine the mostfinancially viable system for the future. Weshould also consider eliminating duplicativefunctions; for example, Fairfax County is theonly county in Virginia to operate a ConsumerAffairs division, which largely replicates whatthe State Agency does. Responsibly managingthe County’s resources is a critical responsibilityfor our Board of Supervisors. Doing so moreeffectively requires fundamental changes to theway the County manages its budget. I wouldimplement outcome-based program reviewsevery two years for all county programs.

4.How many hours a week of outsideemployment do you anticipate whileserving on the Board of Supervisors?

I will be a full-time Supervisor. I will devoteall of my talents to the residents of Dranesville.

John Foust (D)IncumbentTown of residence: McLeanAge: 64Family: Married to Dr. Marilyn

Jerome Foust. We have two sons,Matthew and Patrick

Education: BA in Economics (Univ.of Pittsburgh); Master’s degree inBusiness Administration (W.Va. Collegeof Graduate Studies); Law degree(George Washington Univ.)

Offices held, dates: DranesvilleDistrict Supervisor, January 2008 to Present.

Occupation and relevant experience:Current: full-time County Supervisor. Prior: 30years in private law practice and 8 years asinvestment analyst with large public utility.

Community involvement: Current: CountySupervisor since 2008 working 60 to 80 hoursper week to represent my community. Prior:McLean Citizens Association (President); FairfaxCounty Environmental Quality Advisory Council(Legislative Committee Chair); Fairfax CountyMedical Care for Children Partnership AdvisoryCouncil (Advocacy Committee Chair); CubMaster of Cub Scout Pack 1134 (4 years);Chairman of the Change District of the BoyScouts of America (3 years); McLean PlanningCommittee (President); Member of two CitizenAdvisory Committees to the Fairfax CountySchool Board; Youth Soccer Coach; TimberlySouth Homeowners Association Board Member.

Website: www.foustforsupervisor.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @johnfoustvaName three favorite endorsements:

Fairfax Education Association (“TeacherEndorsed”); Fairfax County Chamber ofCommerce’s NOVABIZPAC; Fairfax CountyProfessional Firefighters and Paramedics.



Our most important obligation is to provideour youth with a first class education. They willbe competing in a 21st Century knowledge-basedeconomy where the quality and extent of theireducation will be key to their success. Greatschools also matter because a great schoolsystem supports property values for all residentsand because good employers prefer to locatenear great schools. I have been endorsed by 10members of the School Board and the FairfaxEducation Association (“Teacher Endorsed”)because I am an effective advocate for ourschools and because I work cooperatively withboth the School Board and our teachers. Iincreased school funding by $240 million peryear since taking office. I will continue to fightfor adequate school funding, teacher pay raises,and I will continue to work with the SchoolBoard to help address the many challenges ourschools face.


I am the only candidate with an extensiverecord as a civic leader before my election to theBoard of Supervisors. I also have 8 very produc-tive years of experience on the Board, where Ihave demonstrated that I listen to my constitu-ents, provide leadership on the issues that affect

their lives, and deliver greatresults for them. I have atrack record of working tostrengthen, diversify andgrow our local economy;fund essential services in afiscally responsible manner;support our schools; and,deliver real transportationsolutions like Dulles Rail andRoute 7 widening. Thiselection should not be about

partisan agendas and political ambitions. Itshould be about who has the best record servingour community. Fairfax County and the FairfaxCounty Public Schools face serious challenges.We need proven leaders who listen to theirconstituents and deliver results for them. I haveproven that I am that leader.

3. More than half of the county budgetis devoted to the local school system. Asignificant budget gap looms for the nextbudget cycle, both for FCPS and FairfaxCounty. What are the top county priori-ties and how will you assure funding andmanage the budget? What ideas do youhave for increasing revenue? Name twoareas/items you would cut or reduce.

Budgets should reflect a community’s priori-ties. Education funding has been thecommunity’s, and our Board’s, number onefunding priority — 53% of the County’s budgetfunds our schools.

During my 8 years in office, I have handledthe significant fiscal challenges caused by aterrible recession as well as significant state andfederal budget cuts. As Chairman of the Board’sAudit Committee and Vice-chairman of theBoard’s Budget Committee, I have saved usmillions in spending and made government moreefficient and accountable to taxpayers. I kept thetax burden on homeowners affordable whileprotecting the County’s Triple A bond rating andensuring that critical programs and services, likeeducation and public safety, are funded.

I am Chairman of the Board’s EconomicAdvisory Commission. To increase Countyrevenues, I am working with the County’spartners in the business community, civicleaders, academia, non-profits and regionalpartners to implement the County’s strategicplan for economic success. As a Board, we arealso working to generate more revenue for theCounty by advocating for the County’s fair sharefrom the state.

Regarding possible cuts, since the recession in2008, the Board of Supervisors has cut manycosts and increased efficiencies in countygovernment. The School Board has done thesame for the schools. Going forward, our bestopportunities for significant additional costsavings will require both Boards workingtogether to consolidate support functions foundin both county and school departments. I havespecific proposals to consolidate and cut costs bysharing systems for Human Services, computeroperations and IT support, social work, mentalhealth services, building maintenance, capitalprojects and transportation services.

4. How many hours a week of outsideemployment do you anticipate whileserving on the Board of Supervisors?

None.

Election ‘15

Candidates for Dranesville District Supervisor

Election Day is Nov. 3, and on that day,virtually every state and local office is onthe ballot. In-person absentee voting is un-derway. Virginia Law allows voters to ab-sentee vote if they could be “working andcommuting for 11 or more hours between6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Election Day.” You’reallowed to count your worst possible com-mute in estimating how many hours youmight be working and commuting on Elec-tion Day.

On Election Day, Nov. 3, polls are openfrom 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Each voter in Fairfax County can makechoices in one State Senate district, oneHouse of Delegates district, Clerk of theCourt, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Sheriff,Chairman of the Board of Supervisors,District member of the Board of Supervi-sors, three members of the School BoardAt Large, one District member of theSchool Board, Soil and Water Conserva-tion Board (vote for 3), School Bond for$310 million, Public Safety Bond for $151million. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/upcoming.htm

Election Day Nov. 3

Virginia law requires all voters to provide an acceptable form of photo identi-fication at the polls. Voters arriving to the polls without photo ID will be al-lowed to vote a provisional ballot and will have until noon on the Friday afterthe election to deliver a copy of identification to their locality’s electoral boardin order for their provisional ballot to be counted.

Virginia’s photo ID requirements also apply to absentee voters who vote in-person in all elections.

Voter Identification


Town of residence: AnnandaleAge: 25Education: MPA

from George MasonUniversity

Occupation andrelevant experi-ence: FormerCampaign FinanceAnalyst at FEC,Former AcademicAdvisor/Assistant In-structor at NorthernVirginia CommunityCollege

Community in-volvement: Co–organize youth basketball league,Assist in developing tutoring programs at localmosques

Website: www.fatehforschoolboard.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: Fateh4sbName favorite endorsements: Fairfax Edu-

cation AssociationQUESTIONS:1. What is one issue that defines your


The achievement gap. Our minority and eco-nomically disadvantaged students continuallyscore 20-30 points below their peers on standard-ized tests. The dropout rate among economicallydisadvantaged students has nearly doubled in thelast four years. First, standardized test scoresshould not be the main indicator of studentprogress or potential. Second, rather than havingteachers teach to the tests, it is important for theSchool Board to give teachers the freedom to iden-tify their students’ strengths and interests. Finally,we must get parents involved, and to place respon-sibility on the students to succeed as well.

2. Why should voters choose you?The qualities that separate me most from the

other candidates for School Board include the per-spective I bring as a member of some of theCounty’s many underrepresented communities (in-cluding the Somali and Muslim communities), asa former Fairfax County Public Schools student,and also as a former advisor to countless area stu-dents at Northern Virginia Community College.

3. How will you address the growing eco-nomic divide in county schools?

Many parents in Fairfax County must work mul-tiple jobs, and are not able to provide the fullsupport needed by their children, such as attend-ing school meetings and checking their children’swork. It is critical for us to get parents as involvedas we can, in part by meeting them on their termsand as much as possible. I will ensure that I ameasily accessible to the entire community. Havingworked with my local mosque to develop a tutor-ing program for our County’s youth, many peoplewithin our community are willing to donate theirtime and efforts to help both academically, and indeveloping them as professionals.

Increased funding is necessary to meet the needsof an ever-expanding student body.

4. How to address the achievement gap?To begin addressing the issue in earnest, the

School Board first needs compassionate represen-tatives willing to understand and serve the needsof the full range of County students with new en-ergy and ability.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the school system with a bud-get gap looming, both for FCPS and FairfaxCounty. What steps would you take tomanage the gap? What are the top priori-ties and what could be cut?

Board members must also better engage theirfellow elected officials to seek additional funding.The majority of the Board of Supervisors wants tofully fund our schools, but the dollars simply arenot coming in from Richmond. We need to workwith state representatives to bring back our taxdollars. We must work first and foremost to pro-vide additional funding. We must get both Boardson the same page, and put education–– in otherwords, our children–– first in Fairfax County.

Election ‘15

School Board Candidates At-LargeOmar Fateh

Town of residence: FairfaxAge: 36Family: Husband,

Charlie (Oaktongraduate ’97); Ryan(4th grade), Keri(2nd grade), Ethan( K i n d e r g a r t e n ) ,Vader (rescue puppy)

Education: B.Ain Economics; Uni-versity of Virginia,Masters in PhysicalTherapy; Universityof North Carolina,Chapel Hill

Occupation and relevant experience:Physical Therapist (Senior Therapist – mentor andleader role)

Community involvement: Volunteer inchildren’s elementary school, local homeless shel-ter, church, and with meals and holiday giftsthrough Our Daily Bread, volunteer with kid’ssports and activities, Manna Meal coordinator, PTAmember

Website: jeanetteforschoolboard.comEmail address:

[email protected] three favorite endorsements: Class

Size Counts, Former Congressman Tom Davis,Congresswoman Barbara Comstock



Responsibility to the community defines my callto serve. That responsibility comes with engagingthe community members, being fiscally responsibleand setting clear priorities. Authentic engagementincludes holding office hours and citizen town hallsthroughout the year, not just showing up to ribboncuttings and planned events. Our community de-serves more transparency with FCPS’ $2.7 billionoperating fund. I will prioritize reducing large classsizes, not with one-time fixes the way my oppo-nents have, but with long-term planning. I willprioritize competitive teacher salaries. Our teach-ers’ salaries have fallen behind compared tosurrounding counties. Instead of making it a realpriority, the Board raised their own salary by 60%.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponents, why should voters choose you?

My opponents either do not have children orhave not had children in FCPS for a long time. Asthe mother of children in graduating classes of2023, 2025, 2027, I bring a unique insight into ourschool system. I bring an Economics degree whenwe face a shortfall of over $70 million for FY17 dueto failing to enact budgeting best practices.


Part of the growing divide comes from paralleldecisions made by the Board of Supervisors. It isimperative to have a new School Board that canbuild trust with the Board of Supervisors. With abetter relationship, the two Boards can work to-gether for our community and all of our children.

4. How to address the achievement gap?Under current leadership, the achievement gap

continues to be substantial. We cannot keep elect-ing the same people and expect a different result.We need to provide a rigorous curriculum to allstudents and allocate resources for objective gains.We need to work with the community to providewraparound services and empower parents to helptheir children at home.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the school system with a bud-get gap looming, both for FCPS and FairfaxCounty. What are the top priorities andwhat could be cut?

FCPS’ projected shortfall is 2.5% of the operat-ing budget. The current School Board took fiveyears to hire an auditor general and has refused todo a line of business review. My top priority is toensure clear metrics and objectivity so we base cutson educational impact and effectiveness, not onbias and popularity. We also need to look at FCPS’contract procurement practices. I will bring lead-ership to the Board so we cut waste andinefficiency, not proven programs.

Jeanette HoughTown of residence: FairfaxAge: 31Family: My fam-

ily is originally fromEgypt and my won-derful husband,Thierry, is from Haiti.We have been mar-ried for 7 years andwe have a two chil-dren, Thomas is 2 �and Mary is 8months.

Education: I holda B.A. in Sociologyfrom George MasonUniversity

Occupation and relevant experience: Iwork at the Refugee Processing Center as a contrac-tor for the Department of State. Since starting there8 years ago, I have been known as a solution-driven, out-of-the box thinker with creativesolutions. In addition to my analytical skills, I bringa parent’s perspective to the board. As a mom oftwo future FCPS students, my priority is ensuringthe best education for children in FCPS.

Community involvement: I participate inlocal volunteer opportunities though my church, Ispent time on the ground in New Orleans afterHurricane Katrina assisting in disaster relief effortsand I spent time helping at an orphanage in myhusband’s hometown of Port-au-Prince, Haiti afterthe devastating earthquake in 2010.

Website: www.ManarForFairfax.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @Manar4FFXName favorite endorsements: I have am

officially endorsed by the GOP and Arab Commu-nity Radio.



As a first generation American, I cherish theimportance of a government that listens to itspeople. I feel called to serve in my local govern-ment because the current school board isunresponsive to its constituents. I plan on involv-ing the community in all board-related mattersthrough regular town halls, PTA meetings, settingspecial time aside to meet with teachers and mak-ing myself readily available to the residents ofFairfax County via office hours, email and phone.

2. Why should voters choose you?The incumbent at-large candidates either have

children that have already graduated from FCPS ordo not have children at all, the only way they taketheir decisions home with them is in their pockets.As a mom of two future FCPS students, my prior-ity is ensuring the highest quality education forFCPS students so that our children have the bestopportunities to thrive and be successful. I under-stand the frustration parents have with class sizedisparity, the need for more rigor in the classroomand the need for parents of this next generation tobe respected and recognized as the primary edu-cators of their children … that is a perspectiveneeded on the school board and it is one that theincumbents cannot offer.


It is important to keep rigor, class size disparityand staffing formulas at the heart of the conversa-tion with the community. Working together, wecan create solutions that address our county’s chal-lenges and needs. It is the responsibility of FCPSto educate all students in the county and shapethem into productive members of the community.

4. How to address the achievement gap?Coming from an immigrant family and working

daily to bring refugees to the U.S., I understandwhat education means for those seeking a betterfuture for themselves and their families in the U.S.I am very concerned that the needle hasn’t movedon closing the minority achievement gap in years,despite $65 million being poured into projects tar-geting the issue. The current board continuallychanges the name of these projects (Excel, PSI, Mo-mentum, etc), making it nearly impossible to

Manar Jean-JacquesINCUMBENTTown of residence: McLeanAge: 29Family: MarriedEducation: M.A.

in International Af-fairs, ColumbiaUniversity; B.A. inAnthropology andEast Asian Studies,The University of Vir-ginia

Offices held,dates: School BoardMember, At-large,January 2012-Present

Occupation and relevant experience: As-sistant Director, John L. Thornton China Center,The Brookings Institution

Website: www.ryanforschoolboard.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @RyanLMcElveenName three endorsements: Fairfax County

Federation of Teachers, Fairfax Education Associa-tion, Fairfax County Democratic Committee



I will remain a voice for the voiceless who don’tknow how to best resolve their concerns with theschool system. One of my first actions on the Boardwas to push for the creation of a system to allowcommunity members to submit YouTube video tes-timonies to be shown at our meetings. We becamethe first public Board in the country to implementthis kind of feedback mechanism. I will continueengaging with the community in a transparentmanner and with an open mind while working toimprove our communications.


I have a track record of bringing significant andpositive change to the school system in a shortamount of time. I have focused on three major ini-tiatives — improving school food (including thecreation of a fresh food pilot kitchen and the sys-tem-wide study of our Food and Nutrition Servicesprogram), the internationalization working group(to help guide our work on implementing worldlanguages and study-abroad opportunities), andthe alumni networking action group (which hashelped us map a path to create an FCPS alumniassociation). In my next term, I hope to see all ofthese efforts through to implementation.


FCPS is a tale of two counties, and this unques-tionably has emerged as one of our biggestchallenges. In Fairfax, more than half of our el-ementary schools sit above the socio-economictipping point, proving that Fairfax has moved be-yond localized poverty. To address this divide, theSchool Board must maintain its long-standing prac-tice of targeting these communities withneeds-based funding. Co-location of school andhuman services facilities, as has been piloted inMount Vernon, is another way to tackle this com-munity issue without spending significantadditional county resources.

4. How to address the achievement gap?Our Board has remained steadfast in our support

of needy students and those who speak other lan-guages at home by directing budget resources tothese at-risk populations. We have made expand-ing early childhood opportunities one of ourpriorities, because we know that investments in theeducation of students at an early age pay dividendslater in their educational careers (thus saving oursystem money). We must continue working withthe county to creatively fund and house these pro-grams.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the local school system with asignificant budget gap looming, both forFCPS and Fairfax County. What stepswould you take to manage the gap and to

Ryan McElveen

See QUESTIONNAIRES, Next Page See QUESTIONNAIRES, Next Page

McLean Connection ❖ October 21-27, 2015 ❖ 17www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Election ‘15

School Board Candidates At-LargeINCUMBENTTown of resi-

dence: FairfaxAge: 58Family: Father of

2 FCPS graduatesE d u c a t i o n :

Harvard, B.A.; Will-iam and Mary LawSchool, J.D.

Offices held,dates: At-LargeSchool Board Mem-ber, 07/1995-12/1995 & 2004-present; Braddock District SchoolBoard Member 1996-1999; At-Large PlanningCommissioner 2000-2003.

Occupation and relevant experience: At-torney since 1984; Member, Board of Directors,American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras, 2000-2010; Member, Board of Directors, MontessoriSchool of Northern Virginia, 1994-1995

Community involvement: Youth soccercoaching, Fairfax-Falls Church Regional Council ofthe United Way, Police Chief’s Diversity Council.

Website: www.moon4schools.comEmail address: [email protected] handle: @Moon4SchoolsName three favorite endorsements: My

family, Fairfax County Federation of Teachers, andDemocratic Party



We should prepare our students for global com-petition. They will not only lead our country in thefuture, but must be able to compete with the stu-dents from the other nations. I want Fairfax Countyto be the best place to live, work, and raise chil-dren. We need good teachers and must supportthem. We should challenge our students to do theirbest, meet their individual needs, and provide themwith a broad curriculum, including in STEM andforeign language education.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponents; why should voters choose you?

Experience and unique perspectives. I haveserved on the school board for 16 years, including3 years as chairman and 2 years as vice chairman,and also chaired budget, governance, personnel,and policy committees. Furthermore, I bringunique perspectives as an immigrant grown up inpoverty, an English language learner, an attorney,and a small business owner.


All students should have resources per theirneeds. We should work more closely with the par-ents to help their children succeed. For the parentswith language, cultural, or employment barriers,we should reach out to them more proactively. Allstudents should have adequate access to digitaldevices and internet capability. We must also workwith the County Board of Supervisors and PlanningCommission on housing issues not to concentratehigh poverty students on certain areas.

4. How to address the achievement gap?Adequate resources, closer work with families,

and high expectations for all students are needed.I support needs-based staffing. Resources shouldfollow students’ needs whether in opportunities,special education, or learning English as a secondlanguage. We need to equip, train, and educateparents to help their children succeed. Also, every-one should have high expectations for all students.We should expand early childhood education op-portunities, working with the County, State, privatesector, and community organizations.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the school system with a signifi-cant budget gap looming, both for FCPSand Fairfax County. What steps would youtake to manage the gap and to fund theneeds of the school system? What are thetop priorities and what could be cut?

A community consensus on the school fundinglevel should be built. I support the superintendent’swork with the budget task force to gather commu-

Ilryong MoonTown of resi-

dence: Alexandria(Fairfax County)

Age: Over 21Family: Luther,

husband; Children –Syreeta, Seneca andStefanie

E d u c a t i o n :Johnson C. SmithUniversity, Charlotte,NC; NOVA Commu-nity College; andGeorge Mason Uni-versity, Fairfax, VA.

Offices held, dates: No elected office heldOccupation and relevant experience:

Fairfax County Public Schools – Family Engage-ment Representative; African Heritage EarlyLiteracy Project Leader. Co-founder South CountyYouth Network a 501(c)(3) non-profit organiza-tion. Member, Lt. Governor’s CommonwealthCouncil for Childhood Success

Community involvement: Northern VA Dis-trict PTA Director; Member, VA State PTA Board;Member, Chairman Bulova’s Ad Hoc Police ReviewCommittee; Coordinator, West Potomac-MountVernon School-Community Coalition

Website: www.burnette4schoolboard.comEmail address: [email protected] handle:Name three favorite endorsements: Dr.

Larry Bussey; The Faith Community; and MattiePalmore, Community Activist



My desire to have equitable education for allstudents drives me to run, along with charactereducation in all school pyramids.


Voters should choose me because I am embed-ded in the school system as an employee; familyoriented and believe that students and families shouldnot be judged by their geographical location.


First, we need to address the increase in fami-lies placing their children in private schools orhomeschooling; second, the economic divide is adirect correlation of the type of businesses in acommunity, i.e., fast food establishments vs. For-tune 500; and, third – work on changing themindset of judging others by zip codes.

4. How will you address the achievementgap?

The achievement gap should not exist. The his-tory of public education clearly shows that thatpublic education was not designed for people ofcolor. The achievement gap came on the scenewhen schools were integrated. I can only addressthe problem when all stakeholders understand whythe problem exists.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the local school system with asignificant budget gap looming, both forFCPS and Fairfax County. What stepswould you take to manage the gap and tofund the needs of the school system? Whatare the top priorities and what could becut?

FCPS and the BOS must work together to de-velop strategies to bring more businesses into thearea and reduce the reliance on real estate taxes.Teachers know where cuts can be made and thatis the group that I would begin my inquiries.

6. What value does FCPS add for taxpay-ers who do not have children in theschools?

A school system with a stellar reputation issought by businesses and former school graduatesto return and give back to the community. Taxpay-ers want to see “more bang for their bucks.” Electme to the school board and you’ll see the plan inaction!

Burnette G. Scarboro

INCUMBENTTown of Resi-

dence: ChantillyAge: 61Family: Wife, Dr.

Patricia Velkoff;Daughters Catherine(South Lakes H.S.2007), Elizabeth(Chantilly H.S. 2009)

Offices held,dates: At-Largemember of the Fairfax County School Board, Janu-ary 2012 to present. Have served as Vice Chairmanof the Board, Chairman and Vice Chairman of theBudget Committee.

Occupation and relevant experience: Se-nior Software Architect at Integrity One Partners,Reston VA; previously with Lockheed Martin andIBM in Manassas, VA. M.A., Computer Science,Indiana University; M. Music, Conducting, IndianaUniversity; B. Music, Composition, University ofCincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.

Community involvement: PTSA President,Chantilly H.S.; PTA Treasurer, Chantilly H.S.,Rocky Run M.S., Poplar Tree E.S.; Treasurer, Pleas-ant Valley Preschool, Girl Scout Troup 2829.Volunteer, stage manager and occasional humanprop, Fairfax Ballet.

Website: http://www.tv4sb.orgEmail address: [email protected] handle: @TedVelkoffName three favorite endorsements: Su-

pervisor John Foust, Senator Chap Petersen,Delegate Ken Plum.



Eliminate high stakes testing and replace withauthentic assessments. We must the restore joy ofteaching and learning that comes from projects,inquiry and communication. Recently inauguratedPortrait of a Graduate defines success not in termsof what students know, but what they can do withwhat they know.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponents and why should voters chooseyou?

I am proud of the work accomplished by theboard of which I have been a member for the pastfour years. We hired a visionary and transforma-tional leader in Dr. Karen Garza. We mademuch-needed changes to student discipline prac-tices; solved the high school start time problem;and instituted full-day instruction in elementaryschools on Mondays. My opponents have seldom,if ever, attended school board meetings or worksessions, and appear to have been motivated solelyby disagreement with one action of the board lastMay. I have been an effective member of the schoolboard by building relationships and brokeringagreements on potentially contentious policy deci-sions.


We need to expand innovative programs inschools throughout the county, especially those ineconomically challenged communities. We mustinsist on rigorous instruction for all children in allschools, whether wealthy or poor, gifted or disad-vantaged. I am deeply opposed to the punitiveaccountability measures imposed by the state andfederal government, which are counterproductive.I am just as deeply committed to the principle thatwe in FCPS must do everything we can to meet theneeds of all children.

4. How to address the achievement gap?The most important thing we can do is to achieve

universal pre-school in Fairfax County. Nobel Prizeeconomist James Heckman has demonstrated thathigh quality pre-school yields a 7 to 1 return oninvestment in less remediation and discipline issuesover the career of a student.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the school system with a signifi-cant budget gap looming, both for FCPS

Theodore J. “Ted”Velkoff

Manar Jean-Jacquesevaluate the effectiveness of the programs. I wouldbegin addressing the achievement gap by engagingteachers in the conversation and seeking their ex-pertise.

5. More than half of the county budget isdevoted to the local school system with asignificant budget gap looming, both forFCPS and Fairfax County. What stepswould you take to manage the gap and tofund the needs of the school system? Whatare the top priorities and what could becut?

If elected, I would like to put a motion before theboard to vote on giving back the 60% raise theyvoted themselves in the midst of this budget gap.I would also like to look at outsourcing FCPS jobsthat do not directly impact the education of chil-dren inside the classroom. Outsourcing givesbusinesses in the community an opportunity tothrive and frees up money that we would have beenpaying into pensions to now be redirected back intothe classroom.

Ryan McElveenfund the needs of the school system? Whatare the top priorities and what could becut?

FCPS cannot remain the system it is today atcurrent levels of funding, and we won’t realize thatwe’ve hit the breaking point until it’s too late. It iswell past time to diversify local revenue streams.

Beyond Fairfax, the School Board must take ad-vocacy to the next level by coalition building withsimilar, like-minded districts and umbrella organi-zations throughout the state to push for a changeto our state funding mechanisms. Additionally,both Boards need to continue exploring legal re-course to obtain the education funding guaranteedby the Virginia constitution.

Ilryong Moonnity input. Both the School Board and the Board ofSupervisors need to know where the communitystands. We should also review our programs, prac-tices, and operations to find savings. My prioritiesare to increase teacher salaries, lower class sizes,and challenge all students to do their best and pre-pare them for the postsecondary education andemployment.

Ted Velkoffand Fairfax County. What are the top pri-orities and what could be cut?

Because Virginia’s antiquated form of govern-ment concentrates power in Richmond andmarginalizes Fairfax County, the Board of Super-visors and School Board are pitted against eachother by design. The Supervisors control schoolrevenue; the School Board controls school spend-ing. The County Executive proposes arevenue-based budget; the Superintendent pro-poses a needs-based budget.

The County Executive has told FCPS to “livewithin its means.” In accordance with that budgetguidance, the Superintendent will have to cut$72M from the operating budget. The SchoolBoard has closed similar gaps by increasing classsize and limiting employee compensation. Thisyear I will not support a budget that is balanced onthe backs of our employees.

Questionnaires have been edited forlength. Full questionnaires are available atwww.ConnectionNewspapers.com click onElections.

Neither Peter Marchetti nor RobertCopeland, both candidates for FairfaxCounty School Board At Large, returnedtheir questionnaires for publication.

Questionnaires Continued from

Previous Page and This Page


Janie StraussIncumbentTown of residence: McLeanAge: 68Family: Mother of 4 FCPS graduates,

grandmother of 2 current FCPS stu-dents, mother-in-law of an FCPS teacher

Education: BA (GWU), Master ofArts in Teaching (Harvard)

Offices held, dates: School Boardmember At- Large, 1991-1993,Dranesville representative, 1996 topresent Occupation and relevantexperience: former elementary teacher, PTApresident, president of the FCCPTA, board chair,The Country Day School, board chair, TheCappies (a high school theater and journalismprogram)

Community involvement: McLean Projectfor the Arts, Healthy Families Fairfax

Website: www.janiestrauss.comEmail address: [email protected] handle:Name three favorite endorsements:

Democratic Party, Fairfax Education Association,Fairfax County Federations of Teachers 10



Our investment and oversight of our publicschools is critical to the future success of ourchildren our county, our state and indeed, ournation. With the challenges facing the nextgeneration — from global instability and anintegrated global economy to climate change andenergy sustainability — our children’s educationis more important than ever. We must keep ourhighly regarded public schools strong. We mustimprove teacher pay, reduce class size, closeachievement gaps, and emphasize high-levelthinking, literacy and communication skills. Wemust maintain our rigorous programs for ALLstudents in the STEM fields, the arts, humanitiesand athletics. While we must continuouslyevaluate programs shedding what is no longerneeded or effective, we must understand how toprepare our children for their future. Theirsuccess will come not from what they know butwhat they can do with what they know.


I have spent 40 years in the field of education.I understand teaching and learning, the use newresearch, budget prioritization, and the changesneeded to prepare our children for success in ahigh tech globalized world.

3. How will youaddress the growingeconomic divide incounty schools?

All schools regardless ofthe socio economic back-ground of the surroundingcommunity must have theneeded resources to sustainhigh standards, employexcellent teachers and offer

all students a rigorous well rounded, richcurriculum. We must also urge the Board ofSupervisors to avoid as much as possible,housing patterns that tend to over- concentratehigh poverty in certain regions.

4. How will you address the achieve-ment gap?

Our schools must provide the expectation andneeded resources for all children to succeed. Wemust continue weighted staffing formulas,provide targeted help to teachers, and insure allstudents are taught a rigorous well rounded richcurriculum. We must expand community-wideinitiatives such as Communities at Hope inHerndon and Opportunity Neighborhoods in Mt.Vernon and Reston and continue the county/schools coordination of social services thatprovides wrap around help for families.

5. More than half of the county budgetis devoted to the local school systemwith a significant budget gap looming,both for FCPS and Fairfax County. Whatsteps would you take to manage the gapand to fund the needs of the schoolsystem? What are the top priorities andwhat could be cut?

The priorities must be improving teachersalaries, lowering class size in non-Title 1schools and maintaining our rigorous wellrounded programs for all students. We mustwork collaboratively with the Board of Supervi-sors to understand total county needs, listencarefully to citizen input and continuously lookfor efficiencies and cost savings. I agree withSupervisor John Foust that school needs must beconsidered at the very beginning of budgetplanning rather than toward the end in March/April when adjustments are limited and difficult.

6. What value does FCPS add fortaxpayers who do not have children inthe schools?

Good schools sustain property values, attractbusinesses and jobs to the county which canincrease the percent of commercial real estateand decrease the county’s reliance on residentialreal estate for county revenues.

Pete KurzenhauserTown of residence: Great FallsAge: 58Family: Pete and his wife have lived in

Great Falls for 20+ years. Their childrenattend Langley HS.

Education: U.S. Naval Academy ’79 (mechanical engineering). US Naval AviationSchool, 1980-81. Numerous continuingengineering education and professionaleducation courses and seminars.

Offices held, dates: No previouselected offices

Occupation and relevant experience:Several decades of managing programs andworking with budgets in Dept. of Defense, USIntelligence Community, and corporations.

Community involvement: Youth sportscoach, Boy Scout Troop 673, Great Falls CitizensAssn., McLean Citizens Assn., Great FallsFreedom Memorial, FCPS parent volunteer,Haddad Youth Ballet, Great Falls Volunteer Fireand Rescue.

Website: http://kurzenhauserforschoolboard.nationbuilder.com

Email address:[email protected]

Twitter handle: NoneName three favorite endorsements:

Class Size Counts; Steve Stuban, chair of the taskforce to revise the FCPS Student Rights &Responsibilities; supported by CongresswomanBarbara Comstock and retired CongressmanFrank Wolf.



I decided to run for the school board because Ihave children in school and have seen trendsover the past 10 years that threaten the qualityof education delivered by FCPS. Those includevery large class sizes and excessive teacherturnover due to low pay and working conditions.I also was inspired by my AP Chemistry and APPhysics teacher at Fort Hunt High School, here inFairfax County, 40 years ago. Like ColonelJacoboski, I spent several decades serving ournation in the military and intelligence commu-nity. I now want to continue serving our republicin a different but equally important way — byensuring that our public schools continue toprepare students for not just college, but alsotheir adult lives and the responsibilities ofcitizenship.

2. What distinguishes you from youropponent(s) and why should voterschoose you? I will ensure that all students inthe Dranesville District get their fair andequitable share of FCPS resources. For over 20years, the incumbent has voted for budgets thatshort-change the bulk of the students in ourdistrict, despite being a member and chairman ofthe audit or budget committees for nearly allthat time. We have ended up with the largest

class sizes in the county.She started as an at-largeSchool Board member inthe 1990s, and she nevermade the transition torepresenting the peopleof this district. Incontrast, I have workedwith corporate andfederal agency financialand budget documentsfor decades, and I

understand that getting a fair allocation of thebudget requires fighting for it. I will have nodifficulty parsing FCPS financial reports andbudget documents quickly and asking incisivequestions. That’s what this district, and theSchool Board, needs.

3. How will you address the growingeconomic divide in county schools? Theeconomic differences across the county areoutside the control of FCPS. The county andstate must improve economic growth and makeFairfax more attractive to businesses. FCPS cancontribute by delivering well-educated and well-trained graduates to those businesses.

4. How will you address the achieve-ment gap? Despite decades of our best effortsand large expenses, gaps between low-SES andhigh-SES students stubbornly persist. Unfortu-nately, most critical factors that influenceachievement lie outside the school house.Schools will continue to engage parents as muchas possible and provide extra services to studentsin need, but wisdom indicates that fixing theroot causes of low achievement goes beyond thescope and charter of FCPS. These problems mustbe tackled by county and state polices andprograms.

5. More than half of the county budgetis devoted to the local school systemwith a significant budget gap looming,both for FCPS and Fairfax County. Whatsteps would you take to manage the gapand to fund the needs of the schoolsystem? What are the top priorities andwhat could be cut? This needs much moreresponse than the 500 word limit set for thisquestionnaire. However, we should first start byusing the $158M surplus cash in the operatingbudget carried forward from previous years. Thiscan fund several years of “budget gaps” beforewe need to take actual cuts in expenses, and willgive more time for economic recovery andbusiness growth, which are absolutely necessaryfor long term budget stability.

6. What value does FCPS add fortaxpayers who do not have children inthe schools? More than half the taxes collectedin the county go to FCPS. However, a reputationfor excellent schools significantly increasesproperty values. FCPS provides an increase invalue in return for those taxes.

School Board Candidates for Dranesville DistrictElection ‘15

Virginia law requires all voters to providean acceptable form of photo identificationat the polls. Voters arriving to the polls with-out photo ID will be allowed to vote a pro-visional ballot and will have until noon onthe Friday after the election to deliver a copyof identification to their locality’s electoralboard in order for their provisional ballotto be counted.

Virginia’s photo ID requirements also ap-ply to absentee voters who vote in-personin all elections.

Here are the “acceptable” forms of iden-tification: Valid Virginia Driver’s License orIdentification Card; Valid Virginia DMV is-sued Veteran’s ID card; Valid United States

Passport; Other government-issued photoidentification cards (must be issued by U.S.Government, the Commonwealth of Vir-ginia, or a political subdivision of the Com-monwealth; Valid college or university stu-dent photo identification card, must be froman institution of higher education locatedin Virginia; Employee identification cardcontaining a photograph of the voter andissued by an employer of the voter in theordinary course of the employer’s business;Virginia Voter Photo ID Card obtainedthrough any local general registrar’s office.“Valid” is defined as a genuine document,bearing the photograph of the voter, and isnot expired for more than 12 months.

Any registered voter may apply for a freeVirginia Voter Photo Identification from anygeneral registrar’s office in the Common-wealth. Voters applying for the VirginiaVoter Photo ID Card will have to completethe Virginia Voter Photo Identification CardApplication, have their picture taken, andsign the digital signature pad.

On Election Day, Nov. 3, polls are openfrom 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. You can check yourregistration status online by going towww.sbe.virginia.gov.

Each voter in Fairfax County can makechoices in one State Senate district, oneHouse of Delegates district, Clerk of theCourt, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Sheriff,

Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Dis-trict member of the Board of Supervisors,three members of the School Board AtLarge, one District member of the SchoolBoard, Soil and Water Conservation Board(vote for 3), School Bond for $310 million,Public Safety Bond for $151 million.

For More Election InformationFairfax County Board of Elections,703-222-0776,http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/

upcoming.htm12000 Government Center Parkway,

Fairfax, Suite 232, Fairfax, 22035;email [email protected]

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