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online at www.connectionnewspapers.com November 8-14, 2017

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HomeLifeStylePage 9

Helping Keep Homeless Warm this WinterNews, Page 3

Words Not Enough News, 0

Community Invited To See ‘Police Toys’

News, Page 13

Dalton Stocks, 4, of Reston maneuvers a scooter through a

DWI obstacle course — without the drunk goggles —

while his grandmother, Bever-ly Dulong of Reston, watches.

2 ❖ Reston Connection ❖ November 8-14, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

RESTON • 1480 North Point Village • 703-733-3860

News

The Fairfax County Board of Super-visors approved the appointmentsof three Reston residents to the

nine-member Reston Community CenterBoard of Governors at the request of HunterMill District Supervisor Catherine Hudginsduring its meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

The three-year terms for William Keefe,William Penniman and Vicky Wingert willbegin on Nov. 6 and expire in 2020. Theirappointments are based on the results ofthe RCC’s Annual Preference Poll, whichwas held in September.

Voting in the 2017 Reston CommunityCenter Preference Poll concluded at 5 p.m.on Friday, Sept. 29. Counting was con-ducted by Votenet Solutions’ eBallot onlinevoting platform. Votenet Solutions is an in-dependent contractor providing the elec-tronic and mail-in ballot processing. TheLeague of Women Voters of Fairfax verifiedand entered ballots dropped in the votingboxes at RCC facilities into the electronicvoting website. A total of 1,414 valid bal-lots were cast in this year’s poll:

❖ William Keefe: 1,169 votes❖ William Penniman: 1,112 votes❖ Vicky Wingert: 1,285 votesKeefe served on the RCC Board of Gover-

nors from 2008-13 and 2014-2017, and has

served on the Reston Association Board ofDirectors (2005-08), the Reston Planningand Zoning Committee (1997-2002) andvolunteering with Reston Youth Basketballand Cornerstones. He is a 2017 Best ofReston awardee.

Penniman served on the RCC Board ofGovernors for approximately 10 years, in-cluding in leadership positions such as sec-retary and treasurer. He was RCC’s repre-sentative on the Reston Master Plan Spe-cial Study Task Force and is a member ofthe Reston Planning and Zoning Commit-tee.

Wingert has been a Reston resident since1973 and has been active in many commu-nity organizations, including two terms onthe RCC Board of Governors. She has alsoworked as the Reston Association’s daycamp director, open space director and CEO,as well as president of the RA Board of Di-rectors. She is a former president of theReston Historic Trust and was a Best ofReston awardee in 2000 and 2017.

The RCC provides a wide range of pro-grams in arts, aquatics, enrichment and life-long learning. For more information aboutprograms and events, visitwww.restoncommunitycenter.com or call703-476-4500.

RCC Preference PollResults Announced

Reston Connection ❖ November 8-14, 2017 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

NewsConnection Editor Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or [email protected]

By Andrea Worker

The Connection

The first semi-cold snap just hitthe region, but it’s just a tasteof colder days and winteryweather yet to come. It’s also a

reminder that some of people will be brav-ing the season without the ability to simplyturn the temperature up on a heating unit.In a region that is consistently described ashaving one of the healthiest economies inthe country, there are still hundreds whoare homeless in the Fairfax-Falls Churchcommunity.

Fairfax County and surrounding commu-nities operate shelters for individuals andfamilies year-round and serve a large clien-tele with their efforts, but when winter ar-rives, it becomes apparent that there aremany more homeless throughout the area,and without the Hypothermia PreventionProgram their lives would be in danger.

During the 2016-2017 season, AbbyDunner from the Office to Prevent and EndHomelessness reports that at least 1,057people utilized one of the shelters for atleast one night.

THE PROGRAM is an integral part of thecounty’s commitment to prevent and endhomelessness, offering shelter – and more– during the coldest months of the year. Thenon-profits New Hope Housing (NHH),FACETS, Cornerstones and Northern Vir-ginia Family Services operate the programunder contract with Fairfax County, divid-ing their efforts and offerings into five ser-vice areas, with the help of some 44 faith-based communities who have volunteerednot only their congregants to assist, but alsooffered their facilities as shelter venuesduring the program’s season.

New Hope Housing handles the task inthe South County Route 1 area, the Centralarea, including Annandale and Seven Cor-ners, as well as within the City of FallsChurch, in partnership with Friends of FallsChurch Homeless Shelter.

In South County, NHH goes into high gearstarting Dec. 1 with their overnight shelterprogram through the Ventures in Commu-nity Hypothermia Outreach Program (VIC-HOP) at Rising Hope United Methodist Mis-sion Church in Alexandria. An army of vol-unteers, many from faith-based agencies,assist staff with meal preparation and ser-vice for dinner and a to-go breakfast. NHHalso offers housing assistance and employ-ment skills at both shelters.

The City of Falls Church program will kickoff on Nov. 15 and run through March 31,2018 at the Falls Church Homeless Shelterat 217 Gordon Road. from 6 p.m.-8 a.m.daily. Like the South County facilities, casemanagement services will be available, inaddition to hot meals and a warm and safesleeping environment.

In the Central region, from Dec. 1 throughMarch 31, 2018, NHH operates their sea-sonal program out of the Bailey’s CrossroadsCommunity Shelter (BCCS), starting at 4:30p.m. Faith communities offer their facilitieson a weekly rotation, enabling NHH togreatly expand the numbers they can as-sist. Clients can access meals, laundry, show-ers and cold-weather clothing and suppliesat BCCS, before some are transported to avolunteering faith community for overnightaccommodation in the care of NHH staff.Guests are then transported back to BCCSthe following morning.

Cornerstones coordinates the efforts inthe North County area, including Herndonand Reston, operating out of the EmbryRucker Community Shelter. The main Hy-pothermia Prevention Program opens at theNorth County Government Building on Dec.1, where guests are directed after visitingthe Embry Rucker facility. Case manage-ment, supplies, meals, showers, laundry,and even bus tokens are available to guests.During the 2015-2016 season, FACETS andtheir partners served 385 guests.

The Western and Central region, whichincludes Fairfax and Centreville, is operatedby FACETS. Their prevention program be-gins on Nov. 26. Accommodations vary, asguests are hosted by various partnering faithcommunities. The first four weeks will behosted at one site, then, beginning on Dec.24, the program utilizes two communitysites rotating each week. FACETS providescase management services at each location.FACETS also encourages community mem-bers to volunteer at a location, or to donateitems like food and clothing. The organiza-tion offers volunteer and staff training ses-sions “with the goal of making sure every-one involved feels safe and confident inproviding shelter to those experiencinghomelessness this season.”

IN ADDITION to offering accommodationand life skills services, the HypothermiaPrevention Program includes visits – at leastonce per week – to the venues by nurse prac-titioners from Fairfax County’s HomelessHealthcare Program. Basic medical care canbe offered onsite, and flu vaccines will beoffered free of charge. Outreach personnelwill also visit, helping to assist clients wish-ing to enroll into the Community HealthCare Network’s free clinics.

Hypothermia Prevention Program gearing up for 2017-2018 season.

Helping Keep Homeless Warm this WinterContact Information

How to make contact in your area toreceive assistance or to offer it:❖ South County –

www.newhopehousing.org.❖ City of Falls Church –

www.newhopehousing.org❖ Central – www.newhopehousing.org❖ North County – www.cornerstonesva.org.

To donate or volunteer, contact ❖ SusanAlger at [email protected].

❖ Western/Central – www.facetscares.org.

On a day like this, many appreciate that Rising Hope United MethodistMission Church in Alexandria offers their facilities to the homelessduring the Hypothermia Prevention Program Season through theirVentures in Community Hypothermia Outreach Program, with New HopeHousing coordinating the services for the region.

Thousands of volunteers make the Hypothermia Prevention Programpossible each year, offering a warm meal and a warm place to sleep. Acheerfully decorated lunch bag from some of the region’s youngestcitizens, can help warm the heart as well.

Photos Contributed by Sherry Edelkamp


By Ken Moore

The Connection

Nick Ploutis developed hisbackup plan during tougheconomic times when fewerpeople contracted him to

paint their houses.“It has saved me,” said Ploutis of Spring-

field, a father of four who rented out hisAlexandria property through a short-termrental platform. “Airbnb has helped me topay my bills.”

Fairfax County Planning Commission helda workshop on Wednesday, Nov. 1 to ad-dress issues associated with allowing short-term rentals, such as who can operate lodg-ing, the number of days permitted, whetherhomeowners or occupants must be presentduring the rental period, fees and neces-sary permitting for registering homes forshort-term rentals, and if a log of overnightadults guests must be maintained and avail-able to county staff.

“I think a lot of [short-term rentals] areflying under the radar,” said DranesvilleDistrict Commissioner John Ulfelder. “Tech-nically, they are illegal right now.”

Currently, short-term lodging is not a per-mitted use under the existing Zoning Ordi-nance.

Laurie Arrants, of the Mason District, ex-pressed comfort that the county will exam-ine this new rental industry before rushingahead: “Adding risk associated with lodg-ing into the residential communities is ahuge paradigm shift,” when local zoningcode has protected residential areas fromcommercial activity, she said.

Right now, the county is considering lim-iting the number of nights in a range of 30to 180 days annually; planners said theywant the rentals clearly defined to be anaccessory use, that the property’s primaryuse will still be somebody’s domicile.

Gail Henry of Fairfax asked why therewould be a limit to the number of days resi-dents could rent out home spaces. “I imag-ine there are many positives,” said Henry,referring to widowers, military members,people laid off or underemployed, or try-ing to remain in an expensive county.

She voiced concern over a negative un-dertone she sensed in the county’s initialdiscussions on the topic.

But planning commissioners have nottaken any stand, said Planning CommissionChairman and Springfield District Commis-sioner Peter Murphy.

“No one on the commission is calling ballsand strikes right now, we are simply askingquestions,” said Murphy, during the publicworkshop on Wednesday, Nov. 1.

QUESTIONS CONCERNING parking,noise, and insurance liability dominated thequeries from the planning commissioners

“If we’re approving a registry of these,maybe there’s some expectation in the pub-lic that somebody at some point has checkedto make sure there’s a working smoke de-tector and that there’s a fire exit that meetscode,” said Hart. “I hope that there’s not afalse sense of security by us approving aregistry for these, that yes, you can sleepovernight there … and we don’t know if it’sa firetrap or not.”

Lee District Commissioner JamesMigliaccio would like to see “a more draco-nian approach” taken with violators.

“I’m looking to protect the neighbors abit more,” said Ellen Hurley, Braddock Dis-trict Commissioner.

THE STRONGEST request came fromMason District Commissioner JulieStrandlie. She implored the county to con-duct a survey of HOAs and condo associa-tions.

“I think it is imperative that we do a sur-vey to find out what our communities ex-isting HOA and condo language says,” saidStrandlie. “It will be next to impossible forcondo associations and HOAs to amenddocuments if theirs do not already prohibit[short-term rentals].”

At-large Commissioner Tim Sargeant saidhe has concerns for small HOAs that mightnot have the resources to pursue legal costsshould the need arise.

“We’re not precluding any HOA in anyway from saying no?” asked CommissionerHart.

“That is correct,” answered Lily Yegazi, se-nior assistant to the zoning administrator.

News

Renting Out Homes Through the NetProposed zoning rules would allow residents to operateshort-term lodging as an accessory use of a home.

Regulating, PermittingShort-Term Rentals

Fairfax County is moving forwardwith a process to permit and limitshort-term lodging like Airbnb andother platforms. This would regulatewho can operate short-term lodging,impose limits on the operation anddevelop a permit process for seekingapproval of short-term lodging as anaccessory use to the occupancy of adwelling.

The county’s Department ofZoning Ordinance process allowstime to fine-tune additional lan-guage of short-term rentals; thecounty will advertise public hearingsto give all residents an opportunityto voice opinion. The county con-ducted an online survey and haveconducted several public meetingsalready, including last week’s publicworkshop at the Planning Commis-sion.

For more, seewww.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpz/short-term-rentals.htm andwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpz/shorttermrentals/shorttermrentals-calendar.htm.

“It will be next to impossible for condo associationsand HOAs to amend documents if theirs do notalready prohibit [short term rentals].”

— Julie Strandlie, Mason District Planning Commissioner

to Department of Planning and Zoning staffduring the two-hour meeting.

Liability insurance must be addressed,said Don Hinman, of Mount Vernon District,who spoke on behalf of the Fairfax CountyFederation of Citizens Associations. The fed-eration advocates that homeowners (or resi-dents) must be present when renting out

for short-term rental.At-large Commissioner James Hart called

the short-term rentals analogous to childcare centers operating in people’s homes.

He asked if inspections will be made, butcounty officials said they intend the respon-sibility to be placed on the homeowner oroccupant hosting the short-term renter.

Fairfax County Planning and Zoning

This chart shows a range of proposals for the zoning ordinance regard-ing short-term rentals.

Julie Strandlie, MasonDistrict Commissioner

Nick Ploutis,Springfield

James Hart,At-large Commissioner

Timothy Sargeant,At-large Commissioner

Don Hinman,Mount Vernon

Gail Henry,Fairfax


News

Virginia’s First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe (left) and Fairfax County FarmersMarkets Coordinator Chelsea Roseberry (right) with Reston FarmersMarket Co-Market Master Fran Lovaas giving them a bit of Market history.

Virginia’s First Lady VisitsReston Farmers Market

Pausing to welcome First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe to the the RestonFarmers Market are, from right: Patrick Sullivan of Anthem Health;Minerva Orozco, Cornerstones SNAP Manager; McAuliffe; Fran Lovaas,Co-Market Master; Chelsea Roseberry, Fairfax County Markets Coordina-tor; and, John Lovaas, founder and co-Market Master.

Joining the ceremonial presentation of the real $15,000 check fromAnthem to the SNAP program to enable low-income beneficiaries topurchase fresh, nutritious locally grown food at the Reston FarmersMarket are, (from left): Fran Lovaas; Bill Bouie, Chairman of theBoard of the Fairfax County Park Authority; Del. Ken Plum (D-36);Supervisor Cathy Hudgins (D-Hunter Mill); Rodney Taylor, Director ofFood and Nutrition for Fairfax County Public Schools; State Sen. JanetHowell (D-32); Anthem representative Patrick Sullivan; and FirstLady Dorothy McAuliffe.

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Opinion

During the last week of each year,this newspaper devotes its pagesto the creativity of local studentsand children. The results are al-

ways remarkable. It is a keepsake edition formany families. Even readers without childrenof that age spend time admiring and chuck-ling over the issue. The annual Children’s Con-nection (including Children’s Gazette,

Children’s Almanac andChildren’s Centre View) is a tra-dition of well over a decade.

We welcome contributionsfrom public and private schools, individualsand homeschoolers. We publish artwork, po-etry, essays, creative writing, opinion pieces,short stories, photography, photos of sculptureor gardens or other creative efforts.

We ask that all submissions be digital so theycan be sent through email or delivered on CDor flash drive. Writing should be submitted inrich text format (.rtf). Artwork should be pho-tographed or scanned and provided in jpegformat.

Some suggestions:❖ Drawings or paintings or photographs of

your family, friends, pets or some favorite ac-tivity. These should be photographed orscanned and submitted in jpeg format. Photosof sculpture or larger art projects are also wel-come.

❖ Short answers (50 to 100 words) to someof the following questions: If you could giveyour parents, family or friends any gift thatdidn’t cost money what would that gift be?What are you most looking forward to in theupcoming year? What is one thing that youwould change about school? What do you wantto be when you grow up? What is your favor-ite animal? What is your favorite toy? Whatmakes a good parent? What makes a goodfriend? Describe one of the best or worst thingsthat ever happened to you? What is the bestgift you’ve ever been given? Ever received?

❖ Your opinion (50 to 100 words) about traf-fic, sports, restaurants, video games, toys,trends, politics, etc.

❖ Poetry or other creative writing.❖ News stories from school newspapers.❖ Photos and text about activities or events.To be published, we must have the full first

and last name of the student artist/writer.

Be Part of Children’s Issue 2017Get creative and send art, poetry and more.

Editorial

Identify each piece of writing or art, includ-ing the student’s full name, age, grade andtown of residence, plus the name of the school,name of teacher and town of school location.Home schoolers’ contributions are welcomed.

Please send all submissions by Friday, Dec.1. The Children’s Edition will publish the lastweek of 2017.

To send CDs or flash drives containing art-work and typed, electronic submissions, markthem clearly by school and hometown and mailthe CD or flash drive to: Children’s Connec-tion (including Children’s Gazette, Children’sAlmanac and Children’s Centre View), 1606King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Email submissions for the Children’s Editionto the following editors:

❖ For Burke, Clifton, Fairfax, Fairfax Station,Great Falls, Herndon, Lorton, McLean, Reston,or Springfield, email to Kemal Kurspahic [email protected].

❖ For Alexandria, Arlington, Centreville,Chantilly, Mount Vernon, or Potomac, Md.,email to Steven Mauren [email protected].

See last year’s editions by visitingwww.connectionnewspapers.com/PDFs/ andscroll down to Children’s Edition.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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Local Media Connection LLC

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NEWS DEPARTMENT:[email protected]

Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414

[email protected]

Fallon ForbushReporter

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Mercia HobsonContributing Writer

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Andrea WorkerReporter

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ADVERTISING:For advertising information

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Debbie FunkDisplay Advertising/National Sales

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David GriffinMarketing Assistant

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Editor & PublisherMary Kimm

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Executive Vice PresidentJerry Vernon

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Editor in ChiefSteven Mauren

Managing EditorKemal Kurspahic

Art/Design:Laurence Foong, John Heinly,

Ali KhalighProduction Manager:

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Special Assistant to the PublisherJeanne Theismann

[email protected]@TheismannMedia

[email protected]

Reston

By John Lovaas

Reston Impact Producer/Host

Many of us attending theFairfax County Boardof Supervisors (BOS)

meeting late into the evening Oct.24 were dismayed to learn that theFairfax County Police and theFairfax County Sheriff are actingas extensions of Federal Immigra-tion and Customs Enforcement(ICE) personnel rounding up anddetaining hundreds of immigrants,most of whom are suspected of amisdemeanor at worst. In fact, thecounty has turned over four timesas many immigrants to ICE fordeportation in 2017 as it did in2016. This acceleration matchesexactly the anti-immigrant surgein activity since the new adminis-tration took over in Washington.

Once again, we find FairfaxCounty law enforcement actingcontrary to stated policy of theBoard of Supervisors. This veryBoard adopted a resolution onApril 4, 2017 pledging non-coop-eration with the federal govern-ment on immigration except whenserious criminal activity is in-volved. Immigration, the Boardnoted, is a federal responsibility;

the county does nothave the resources totake on these respon-sibilities and will notask its officers to doso except in seriouscriminal matters. Infact, acting as an ex-tension of ICE in mi-nor civil offensescan jeopardizelocal law en-forcement rela-tions with the communities theyserve, not to mention the devas-tating effects of breaking up fami-lies in the process. Nevertheless,the County police and Sheriff ’sdeputies continue to work inleague with Trump administrationICE agents.

At the Oct. 24 meeting, those ofus who stayed to hear testimonyfrom the Northern Virginia Ethi-cal Society, the faith communitySanctuary Congregation Network,the American Civil Liberties Union,CASA, and a coalition of immi-grant advocates, learned that theFairfax County Police Departmentpatrols and searches for immi-grants alongside ICE.

Furthermore, the FCPD re-sponds to inquiries, alerts, and

orders of ICE to de-tain and turn over im-migrants sought bythe feds, apparentlyincluding immigrantsnot suspected of anycriminal offense. And,according to the Dec-laration of the Resi-

dents of FairfaxCounty submit-ted by the coali-tion of advocacy

groups: “Worst of all, FairfaxCounty, through its Sheriff ’s Of-fice, maintains a contract with ICEto hold immigrants…as if theywere under federal custody. Thismeans our [county] governmentis making money off the sufferingof our immigrant communities.”

County actions are more than alittle troubling.

Senior Counsel Allie Boldt withDEMOS noted it is quite clear the“legal landscape” provides roomfor the county to just say no to fed-eral requests, especially when mi-nor civil infractions are involvedfor which non-immigrants mightget a citation if anything at all —and certainly not time in thecounty jail.

Why is the BOS, as in past po-

lice killing, turning a blind eye topolice and Sheriff Stacey Kincaid’sbehavior contravening countypolicy? Why are police so zeal-ously pursuing and locking upimmigrants? Would officers be-have differently if the 1,400 per-son force composition better re-flected the people they serve; i.e.,if they had more than 3 percentHispanics in uniform when thecounty is 16 percent Hispanic?(Sadly, these numbers have re-mained unchanged for years.)

Nor were Chairman SharonBulova’s closing words on Oct. 24encouraging.

As if to excuse or explain surg-ing cooperation with ICE, she said,“We do have issues of human traf-ficking and gangs that do requireour cooperation.” No one had saidotherwise regarding such criminalactivity.

Although not as harsh, herwords reminded some of Trump’scampaign references to immi-grants crossing our southern bor-der as “rapists and murderers.”

Other Supervisors, including ourown, sat as mutes, unwilling tospeak against growing persecutionof people in our community theyhad promised to protect.

Doublespeak on Immigrants —Fairfax County In League with Trump?

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Commentary

By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum

State Delegate (D-36)

I am sure I will have some commen-tary on the outcome of the Nov. 7election in future columns, but as I

write this column election results are notyet known. No matter the outcome, Ishare the frustration experienced bymany with the negativity that seems toinevitably overtake campaigns with highstakes. Political operatives who provide the adviceupon which campaigns are planned continue to in-sist that negative advertising wins elections as it getspeople’s attention and creates a fear or anger thatmoves voters to take part. I am not sure if anyonehas measured how many people get turned off anddecide not to vote because of the vicious ads.

Even more concerning to me than the half-truthsand falsehoods that have slipped into campaigningis the cruelty that has moved into the operation ofgovernment. After years of complaining about theAffordable Care Act while in complete control of theCongress and now also the presidency, the Republi-cans have not been able to repeal and replace whatthey came to call Obamacare. The reason might sim-ply be that provision of health care to all with cover-age for pre-existing conditions in a developed na-tion is the right thing to do. Failing to achieve legis-lative success, the administration has set about try-ing to kill the program through administrative ac-tions and neglect. That is where the cruelty sets in.

The first effort at killing the program came withan executive order to withhold subsidies which al-

lowed insurance companies to keep pre-mium increases to a minimum. With theloss of the subsidies, Anthem pulled outof Virginia in August leaving 60 juris-dictions with no insurer offering cover-age; they reversed their action after in-tense efforts by Governor TerryMcAuliffe. The loss of federal supportwill be devastating in Virginia where240,000 Virginians rely on subsidies tobe able to afford insurance. There clearly

must not be a lack of money in Washington with thehuge tax cuts now being proposed for the verywealthy.

The cruelty does not end there. To reduce the pro-gram further the advertising budget to remind peopleabout open enrollment was slashed by 90 percent,and the time to enroll was reduced from 12 weeksto 6 weeks. The open enrollment started Nov. 1 andwill close on Dec. 15. Tell anyone you know whomight be eligible and spread the information throughsocial media programs in which you participate thatopen enrollment ends on Dec. 15.

A final crippling blow could be the administrationannouncement that it will not enforce the individualmandate that has been critical to keeping costs downby spreading the risk across a wide pool of partici-pants. As though this is not enough, the RepublicanCongress and administration failed to reauthorize theChildren’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) thatprovided care to 65,000 children and 1,100 preg-nant mothers in Virginia. We have a new insuranceprogram in place in this country; it is calledTrumpcare. It is a very cruel system!

The Cruelty of Politics

The American Red Cross encour-ages people to share their goodhealth this holiday season by donat-ing blood for patients in need.Upcoming blood donation opportu-nities in the area Nov. 16-30:

❖ Herndon11/16/2017: 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.,

Amazon Web Services, 12900Worldgate Drive, Suite 800

❖ Reston11/21/2017: 2-7:30 p.m.,

Sheraton Hotel, 11810 Sunrise Val-ley Drive

11/22/2017: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.,Reston Library, 11925 BowmanTowne Drive.

11/22/2017: 3 p.m.-8 p.m., St

Thomas a Becket RCC, 1421 WiehleAve.

11/30/2017: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., BillyCasper Golf, 12700 Sunrise ValleyDrive, Suite 300

How to donate blood?Simply download the American Red

Cross Blood Donor App, visitredcrossblood.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make anappointment or for more information.

All blood types are needed to ensurea reliable supply for patients. A blooddonor card or driver’s license or twoother forms of identification are re-quired at check-in. Individuals who are17 years of age in most states (16 with

parental consent where allowed bystate law), weigh at least 110pounds and are in generally goodhealth may be eligible to donateblood. High school students andother donors 18 years of age andyounger also have to meet certainheight and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors cansave time at their next donation byusing RapidPass to complete theirpre-donation reading and health his-tory questionnaire online, on the dayof their donation, from a computeror mobile device. To get started andlearn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instruc-tions on the site.

Blood Donations Sought


News

Reston Lions InductSeven New MembersFirst Vice District Governor, Wilma Murphy,visited the Reston Lions Club regular meet-ing held at the Hidden Creek Country Clubon Wednesday, Oct., 4. She discussed activi-ties of the District and inducted seven newmembers. Those pictured include, in thefront row, from left: Wilma Murphy; DeniseBrown; Patty Giese; Aradhna Madireddi;Membership Chair Anne Ryan; and Presi-dent Steve Reber; and in the back row:Alvaro Calle; Secretary Jim Ryan; JitendraSonis; Viet Nguyen; and Matt Law. Brown,Giese, Madireddi. Calle, Sonis, Nguyen andLaw were inducted as new members.

The Hidden Creek Coun-try Club was acquired byConnecticut-based realestate developer

Wheelock Communities, the com-pany announced with a press releaseon Wednesday, Oct. 25.

While some things will remain un-changed, the company intends tomake major investments.

Fore Golf Services, the companythat has been managing the golfcourse, will continue to do so. Gen-eral Manager Eric Levin and hisemployees will also continue work-ing at the club. Wheelock plans toimmediately invest approximately$300,000 in upgrades to the prop-erty, including improvements to itsRoanoke Grill, Tavern, lobby, Fair-way Room and the locker rooms.New golf carts will also be deliveredin December.

And this is only the beginning ofwhat could change.

“Over the next several years,Wheelock will be working in part-nership with the Reston community andclub members to explore potential changesto the property that could provide the com-munity with additional public amenities,civic spaces, enhanced environmental ben-efits and new housing choices,” DustySmith, a spokesperson for Wheelock, toldthe Connection over email.

While Wheelock has publicly expressedinterest in residential uses for the property,it is not speculating on zoning changes.

“We intend to fully embrace the Restonprocess and have no preconceived notionsof what direction this may take us,” Smithsaid.

Reston has a history of fighting such pro-posals in favor of preserving green and openspace.

RESCUE RESTON, a grassroots organiza-

tion that opposes the redevelopment ofReston’s other golf course — Reston Na-tional Golf Course — fought a five-year le-gal battle to preserve the course.

Fairfax County designated the land forboth courses for recreational use only. Anyresidential development plan for the prop-erties would require approval from thecounty’s Planning Commission and Boardof Supervisors to rezone the properties. Thisprocess requires multiple public hearingsalong the way, which is where the RestonNational owners have had a history of los-ing this battle with Restonians.

When Northwestern Mutual, the major-ity owner of RN Golf Management, whichowns Reston National, tried to go aroundthe process, the Fairfax County Zoning Ad-ministrator told Northwestern Mutual at-torneys that they could not redevelop the

golf course without rezoning approval. Theattorneys then challenged the county incourt, where they were told no again.

While the county’s comprehensive planfor Reston — the Reston Master Plan Spe-cial Study — states that “the Reston Na-tional and Hidden Creek Country Club golfcourses are planned for private recreationuse, more specifically to remain as golfcourses,” Reston National was listed for saleby investment advisory firm ARA Newmarkon Tuesday, Feb. 28. ARA listed the prop-erty as “168 acres of by-right residentialdevelopment.”

This is misleading because any owner ofthe golf course would not have the right todevelop the land into residential propertyby right.

While Rescue Reston is strongly opposedto how the owners of Reston National have

approached development, it seemslike the new owners of HiddenCreek have started off on goodterms with the organization.

CONNIE HARTKE, president ofRescue Reston, released a statementto the Connection about the recentacquisition of Hidden Creek:

“There is a very sharp contrast incommunications by Wheelock, thenew owners of Hidden Creek CC,and Northwestern Mutual, the ma-jority owner of Reston National GolfCourse. Wheelock quickly intro-duces themselves, gives an overviewof short-term and longer-term planswith promise of future discussionswith club members and the Restoncommunity. NWM makes everymove through attorneys and to thisday continues to search for a majorhousing developer through theirbroker ARA Newmark, the largestbrokerage in the multihousing in-dustry. Restonians are understand-ably concerned about what ‘new

housing choices’ Wheelock is intending, butby following the county process for a com-prehensive plan change, our communitywill have multiple opportunities to influencethe outcome.

Their openness so far certainly gives morehope that they will indeed be, as Dan Greensays, ‘an engaged member of the commu-nity.’

We do not expect such an open commu-nication to come from a purchaser of thegolf course on the south side of Reston.We’ve certainly had no engagement fromNorthwestern Mutual. It is more importantthan ever that the community check in pe-riodically on Rescue Reston’s website andsocial media pages to stay aware and readyfor a call to action.”

Wheelock declined to provide informationabout the cost of the acquisition.

Real Estate Developer Acquires 1 of Reston’s 2 Golf Courses

Connie Hartke, president of Rescue Reston, a grassroots organization that opposesthe redevelopment of Reston National Golf Course, asserted on May 3 the need towarn bidders who wish to purchase the land, which is for sale, that they mustmaintain the land as a golf course.

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By Marilyn Campbell

Some local designers are collaborating with pa-tients at Children’s National Health Center todeck the hall for charity. The tastemakers are

creating holiday trees, mantle pieces, wreaths and amenorah for a community fundraiser called “LightUp the Season.” The Creative & Therapeutic ArtsServices at Children’s National worked with theChildren’s Health Board to pair designers with pa-tients for inspiration.

“We were very excited to learn about Light Up theSeason and be able to take part,” said Nadia Subaranof Aidan Design. “Over the years we’ve been regularparticipants in the DC Design House, another char-ity event benefitting Children’s National. However,with this event we got the chance to interact andcollaborate with the children that these events ben-efit. It’s been a much more hands on experience forus. And who doesn’t love decorating holiday trees?”

Subaran, along with Megan Padilla and KellyEmerson also of Aidan Design created a holiday treedesign called “A ‘Wimpy’ Tree – A Tree in Cartoons,”which was inspired by a patient named Wesley andhis favorite book series, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.”

“Our tree will explore a black and white theme inkeeping with the graphic novel genre,” said Subaran.

The design team says that they used 2- and 3-Dinterpretations of classic Christmas décor combinedwith “striking graphic visuals, pops of color, and agood dose of wit, the tree will be both a throwbackto a simpler time and on trend for young readers.”

“A Guiding Light” is the name of the mantel de-sign created by Kelley Proxmire of Kelley Proxmire,Inc. and inspired by a patient named Cheyenne. Increating her mantel, the designer said that she, “tiedin biblical references to light, which are shownthroughout the display, and incorporated Cheyenne’sfavorite color: red for a red, white and silver-themedmantel.”

Two sisters named Leilah and Ava were the inspi-ration for a tree designcalled, “A Colorful FamilyChristmas” by AnnieElliott and ChristyMaguire of Annie ElliottInteriors. “When askedwhat they liked bestabout Christmas, the girlsagreed that being to-gether with their entirefamily was tops,” saidElliott. “In that spirit, theyinspired our theme, ‘AColorful Family Christ-mas.’ Playing boardgames, reading stories,sitting around a fire anddecorating the tree alsoare favorite family activi-ties. You’ll see all of theseholiday traditions reflected in our tree’s decorations.”

“Leilah and Ava have many favorite colors, but awinner for both is teal,” added Maguire. “Therefore,teal drives the tree’s color palette, and other of thegirls’ favorites, purple, blue, and green, also are in-cluded.”

Other area designers include Lena Kroupnik ofLena Kroupnik Interiors, Allie Mann and AlexandriaHubbard of Case Design/Remodeling, Inc., CamilleSaum of Camille Saum Interiors of Bethesda, Md.;Victoria Sanchez of Victoria at Home, Susan Nelsonand Todd Martz of Home on Cameron, Ashley Greerof Atelier Ashley Flowers of Alexandria; PamelaHarvey of Pamela Harvey Interiors of Herndon; Josh

Hildreth and Tara Priceof Josh Hildreth Interi-ors of Reston and LisaTureson of StudioArtistica in Oak Hill.

The holiday designswill be on display duringa family-friendly com-munity fundraisingevent to benefitChildren’s National atFour Seasons inGeorgetown, 2800Pennsylvania Avenue,NW – on Sunday, Dec. 3from 1-4 p.m. There willbe activities for all ages,such as holiday cookiedecorating, ornamentmaking, a visit from

Santa and Children’s National Dr. Bear mascot, mu-sical performances and youth entertainers, silentauction, and light fare and libations. In addition,guests will be encouraged to write holiday cards forChildren’s National patients. Visitchildrensnational.org/lightuptheseason for more.

Lighting Up the SeasonTastemakers create holiday trees, mantelpieces,wreaths and a menorah for charity.

Home LifeStyle

Christy Maguire (left) and Annie Elliott (right) of Annie Elliott Interiors, (picturedwith Leilaha and Ava) will collaborate on aholiday tree for Light Up The Season 2017.

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“…With this event we got thechance to interact andcollaborate with the childrenthat these events benefit. It’sbeen a much more hands onexperience for us. And whodoesn’t love decoratingholiday trees?”

— Nadia Subaran of Aidan Design


By Ken Moore

The Connection

Fairfax County “is making moneyoff the suffering” of the immigrantcommunity, said Matt Bakker.

“Worst of all, Fairfax Countythrough its Sheriff’s Office maintains a con-tract with ICE [U.S. Immigration and Cus-toms Enforcement] to hold immigrantswithin the Adult Detention Center as if theywere under federal custody,” said Bakker,who spoke on behalf of a coalition of advo-cates on immigration.

“They also act as informants and they tellICE where to find the person,” said DianeBurkley Alejandro, of ACLU People Power.

“This is aiding and abetting,” she said.Fairfax County has turned more than four

times as many immigrants over to ICE in2017 as they had by this time last year, in-cluding 100 people in September alone,according to Alejandro. Immigrants are of-ten jailed when others would be cited andreleased, she said.

“These people end up in ICE custodythrough the police. Police send people tojails when I would be given a summons,”said Alejandro. “The Police and Sheriff ad-mit they do not have to hand over a singleperson to ICE; they do it anyway.”

Six people waited more than eight and ahalf hours on Tuesday, Oct. 24, to speakbefore the Board of Supervisors during thepublic comment period at the end of itsregularly scheduled board meeting.

“Current policies of cooperating with ICEare ripping holes in the fabric of our com-munity. We’re better than this,” said the Rev.Alexis Vaughan Kassim, of the DMV Sanc-tuary Congregation Network.

THE BOARD VOTED to adopt a resolu-tion on April 4, 2017 pledging non-coop-eration with federal government on immi-gration law except when serious criminalactivity is involved.

“While immigration is a federal matter,Fairfax County does partner with federalauthorities on serious criminal matterswhen required,” according to the resolution.“Whereas, we do not ask, nor do we havethe resources for, our police officers to be-come immigration officials, nor for FairfaxCounty to assume the responsibilities of fed-eral immigration officials.”

when our constituents are concerned re-garding policies or practices that may af-fect them. We are a safe, diverse and caringcommunity, and if that harmony is threat-ened, I believe we have a duty to speak outand clearly articulate our values.”

WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGH, the advo-cates said.

“County officials have assured us they willnot collaborate nor enforce immigration lawbut recent actions put the lie to these as-sertions,” said Bakker.

“Fairfax by its actions has embraced ICE’smission of ensuring the deportation of allundocumented immigrants whether or notthey have committed a crime and the datawill show that,” said Alejandro.

“Our demand is simple,” she said. “Equaljustice and liberty for all. More specifically,the county needs to treat immigrants as theydo all other people.”

“All of our faith traditions call us to standup for the humanity of our neighbors, toresist labeling undocumented residents inour community as criminals and outsiders,and to oppose policies that lead to the de-tention and deportation of our families,friends and neighbors,” said VaughanKassim.

Being undocumented is not a crime, saidAllie Boldt, senior counsel with Demos,which conducts analysis of how countypolicy must be strengthened to protect im-migrant communities “who are facing un-fair and terrifying policies at all levels ofgovernment.”

“The legal landscape allows the countyto do a lot more to protect its immigrantresidents who are represented here today.In fact, the Constitution even requires someof these changes,” Boldt said.

The 10th amendment protects countygovernment from being forced to do thefederal government’s bidding, she said.“What that means is if ICE asks the countygovernment to do something, the county

See Local Stance, Page 11

News

Advocates demand local change onimmigrant interactions.Words Not Enough

MoreImmigrants in Fairfax County:

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/2017/immigrants.htm

Graphics from Diane Burkley Alejandro/ACLU People Power

An increase in civil immigration enforcement in Fairfax County occurredbetween 2016 and 2017.

Fairfax County has turned over four times as many immigrants to ICE in2017 (573) as it did in 2016 (147).

Matt Bakker

Diane BurkleyAlejandro, ACLUPeople Power Jorge Mendez, CASAAllie Boldt, DEMOS

Govind Nair, NorthernVirginia Ethical Society

The Rev. AlexisVaughan Kassim, ofthe DMV SanctuaryCongregation Network

Chairman Sharon Bulova stated in herBoard Matter that same day: “FairfaxCounty is a welcoming and accepting com-

munity where residents of all backgroundsdeserve to feel respected and safe. It is im-portant that we, as local leaders, speak out


From Page 10

can just say no.”Boldt asked the county to end arrests and deten-

tion based on civil immigration matters, to restrictwhen and how information about a person’s immi-gration status is shared, to accept a wider range ofidentification documents, and to ban county con-tracts and agreements to perform and facilitate fed-eral immigration law enforcement.

A DECLARATION was read in English by Bakkerand then in Spanish by Jorge Mendez, representingCASA.

They requested that the county terminate anyagreement with ICE, including agreements betweenICE and the Office of the Sheriff; that the police de-partment update its general order so “it protects ourcommunity rather than attack it;” that traffic andsafety policing no longer lead to detention and de-portation of immigrants; that the Sheriff’s Depart-ment no longer honors ICE requests to detain immi-grants unconstitutionally; that the juvenile detentionauthorities no longer share information with ICE; andthat county buildings, including schools and courts,be “safe spaces” that “forbid entry to ICE officers.”

“With this declaration we demand that all authori-

Local Stance on Immigrationties in Fairfax County end their agreement and vol-untary and unnecessary collaboration with ICE. Inplace of your ineffective statements of support, weneed policies that guarantee non-cooperation withICE,” said Bakker.

“An atmosphere of fear, intimidation, arbitrary de-tention and xenophobia is not compatible with theethical basis of our ... community nor with the con-tinued economic vitality and social progress withwhich Fairfax County has up to now been an exem-plary model,” said Fairfax resident Govind Nair, ofthe Northern Virginia Ethical Society.

BULOVA THANKED thanked the speakers for theirwork, testimony and advocacy.

“This is a difficult time in our world and in ourcommunity and in this country,” Bulova said. Theboard is required to strike a balance “between mak-ing sure we continue to be a welcoming place, a tol-erant place where people from all over the globe havefelt comfortable coming to,” she said, and “makingsure we are protecting the public.

“We do have issues of human trafficking and gangsthat do require our cooperation. Everyone deservesto be safe.”

She said the board awaits response from the po-lice chief. “We should be hearing back.”

News

“Who AreThey?” Statis-tics on immi-

grants held injail for ICEpickup and

deportation.

“How TheyGet There:”Interactionwith localpolice canland undocu-mented immi-grants in ICEcustody in avariety ofways.

Graphics from

Diane Burkley

Alejandro/ACLU

People Power


Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcementsat www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal-endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday.Photos/artwork encouraged.

ONGOING“Aida” the Musical. Through Nov.

11, various times at RestonCommunity Center, Hunters WoodsVillage Center at 2310 Colts NeckRoad. Reston Players presents “Aida”with music by pop legend Sir EltonJohn and lyrics by Tim Rice. Visitrestonplayers.org/show1/.

Art Exhibit. Through Nov. 18 atGreater Reston Arts Center, 11900Market St., Reston. Artist SueWrbican, bringing her most recentphotographic series inspired by thelandscape paintings of AmericanSurrealist Kay Sage (1898-1963).Free. Call 571-267-5000 or visitrestonarts.org.

Cotton Collective Art. Through Dec.2 at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 CenterSt., Herndon. Exhibit called “TheFabric of Families Center StreetCotton Collective.” Call 703-956-9560 or visitwww.artspaceherndon.com.

Reston Farm Market, Saturdays,through Dec. 9, 8 a.m. - Noon, LakeAnne Village Center, 11401 NorthShore Drive, SNAP accepted, bonusdollar program. (CLOSED forMulticultural Festival Sept. 23)

Herndon Farm Market, Thursdaysthrough Nov. 9, 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.,Old Town Herndon, 700 Block ofLynn St., by the Red Caboose. SNAPaccepted, bonus dollar program.

Jazz in the City Exhibit. Varioustimes at ArtSpace Herndon, 750Center St., Herndon. Kristine Kellerand Robert Gilbert paint with aninterest in New York. Call 703-956-9560 or visitwww.artspaceherndon.com.

FRIDAY/NOV. 10Ice Skating Season Opens. various

times at Reston Town Center, 11900Market St. Public ice skating andskate rentals every day, including allholidays. Also available are skatinglessons, birthday parties, private andcorporate parties. Call 703-709-6300or visit restontowncenter.com/skating.

Rock N Skate at the Ice SkatingPavilion. 8-11 p.m. at Reston TownCenter, 11900 Market St. Live DJ,music, games and prizes; skatingcontinues until 11 p.m. Continuesevery Friday until March. Call 703-709-6300 or visitrestontowncenter.com/skating.

NOV. 10-12Herndon High School Theatre

presents “Twelfth Night.”Various times at Herndon HighSchool Auditorium, 700 Bennett St.William Shakespeare’s holidaycomedy set in the roaring ’20s. $6 perstudent and $12 per adult. Visitwww.HerndonDrama.org.

SATURDAY/NOV. 11All American Concert. 4 p.m. at

Hunter Woods Community Center,2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. Allthe music in this patriotic concert hasbeen written or arranged byAmerican musicians. They includethe legendary king of marches, JohnPhilip Sousa and former Secretary ofthe Navy, J. William Middendorf, II.Call 703-476-4500.

Meet the Author. 7-9 p.m. at ScrawlBooks, Reston Town Center, 11862Market St. Reston. Reading andsigning with author Melissa ScholesYoung of her book “Flood.” [email protected], call 703-966-2111, or visit www.scrawlbooks.com.

Dancing with the Services. 7 p.m. atthe Crown Plaza Hotel Dulles, 2200

Centreville Road, Herndon. Theevent, based on the populartelevision show Dancing with theStars, will feature local DMVcelebrities. Visitwww.dancereston.com or call 571-306-7925.

SUNDAY/NOV. 12A Visual Journey Exhibit. 2-4 p.m.

at Jo Anne Rose Gallery, RestonCommunity Center, Lake Anne, 1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston.Photographs by Carla Steckleyincluding infrared and the newestwork, triptychs on canvas will be ondisplay from Nov.1-27. Free. [email protected] or call 703-476-6016.

Teen Ensemble Audition. 5-6 p.m.at RCP Rehearsal Hall, 266 SunsetPark Drive, Herndon. DodgeballTheatre’s Teen Ensemble, now in it’s10th year, is a performance arttraining program and devised workproduction company open to 13 -18year olds of all backgrounds andexperience levels. [email protected] formore information.

TUESDAY/NOV. 14Bernice Lewis Concert. 6 p.m. at

Amphora’s Diner Deluxe, 1151 EldenSt., Herndon. A Reston-Herndon FolkClub concert. $10 Members, $11Non-members. Visitwww.restonherndonfolkclub.com.

THURSDAY/NOV. 16Meet the Poet. 7-9 p.m. at Scrawl

Books, Reston Town Center, 11862Market St. How to Prove a Theoryevent with poet Nicole Tong. [email protected], call 703-966-2111, or visit www.scrawlbooks.com.

NOV. 16-18Herndon High School Theatre

presents “Twelfth Night.”Various times at Herndon HighSchool Auditorium, 700 Bennett St.William Shakespeare’s holidaycomedy set in the roaring ’20s. $6 perstudent and $12 per adult. Visitwww.HerndonDrama.org.

NOV. 18-19Children’s Nutcracker. Noon, 2 p.m

and 4 p.m. shows at the ClassicalBallet Theatre, 320 Victory Drive,Herndon. The Children’s Series“Nutcracker,” is a condensed versionof the popular holiday classic. Theapproximately 40-minuteperformance followed by a shortquestion and answer session andmemorable photographs withdancers. Visit www.cbtnva.org.

SATURDAY/NOV. 18Herndon Turkey Trot 5K Race. 4

p.m. at the Herndon CommunityCenter, 814 Ferndale Ave. Runnersand walkers, take your mark and getready to conquer a fun 5K trailcourse, which winds around theHerndon Centennial Golf Course.Visit herndon-va/events.

SUNDAY/NOV. 19Gray Goose Studios Class. 2-4 p.m.

at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center St.,Herndon. Children and teens cancreate art in the medium of theirchoice with assistance from theinstructor as needed. Drawing,painting, collage, mosaic, andsculpture supplies provided. Artistscan choose one medium or work inmixed media. $25. Call 703-956-9560 or visitwww.artspaceherndon.com.

Meet the Cat Expert/Author. 4-6p.m. at Scrawl Books, Reston TownCenter, 11862 Market St. “Purrs ofWisdom” discussion and signing withauthor/ cat expert Ingrid King. [email protected], call 703-966-2111, or visit www.scrawlbooks.com.

FRIDAY/NOV. 24Black Friday Brunch. 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

at the Community Canteen in RestonTown Center, 11900 Market St.Breakfast menu includes customomelets, breakfast sandwiches,Belgian waffles, and more, plus fresh-baked treats at the counter,Metropolis Coffee and Rishi Tea. Call703-707-9442 or visitcommunitycanteen.com.

27th Annual Reston HolidayParade. 11 a.m. at Reston TownCenter, 11900 Market St. Day ofholiday activities including treelighting and singing. Call 703-709-6720 or visit restontowncenter.com.

Meet the Authors. 11:30 a.m. atScrawl Books, in Reston TownCenter, 11862 Market St. LezlieEvans and Joan Waites will be doinga storytime and book signing withtheir new Christmas books “FindingChristmas” and “An Artist’s NightBefore Christmas.” Call 703-966-2111, or visit www.scrawlbooks.com.

NOV. 24-JAN. 4Gingerbread Village. Various times

at at the Hyatt Regency Reston,

Reston Town Center, 11900 MarketSt. See the annual display in thehotel lobby. Call 703-709-1234 orvisit reston.hyatt.com.

THURSDAY/NOV. 30Meet the Author. 7 p.m. at Scrawl

Books, Reston Town Center, 11862Market St. Poet Alan King will readfrom and sign his new book “PointBlank.” Visit www.scrawlbooks.com.

SATURDAY/DEC. 2Meet the Christmas Author. 11 a.m.

at Scrawl Books, Reston TownCenter, 11862 Market St. Sue Fliesswill be doing a storytime reading andbook signing with her new Christmasbook “We Wish for a MonsterChristmas.” Visitwww.scrawlbooks.com.

Horse-drawn Carriage Rides. 4-9p.m. at Reston Town Center, 11900Market St. $5 per person; children 5and under ride free with adult.Proceeds go to local charities. Call703-709-6720 or visitrestontowncenter.com.

SUNDAY/DEC. 3Run with Santa 5K. 8:30 a.m. at

Reston Town Center, 11900 MarketSt. Jump into the season’s spirit andwear the favorite holiday gear orcostume. Free kids fun-run withfinisher medals.Call 703-689-0999 orvisit prraces.com/runwithsanta.

Mini-Train Rides. noon-4 p.m. atReston Town Center, 11900 MarketSt. Proceeds go to local charities. Call703-709-6720 or visitrestontowncenter.com.

THURSDAY/DEC. 7Meet the Author. 7 p.m. at Scrawl

Books, Reston Town Center, 11862Market St. Suzanne Scurlock-Duranawill be doing a guided meditation/reading/ book signing of her book“Reclaiming Your Body: Healing fromTrauma and Awakening Your Body’sWisdom.” Visitwww.scrawlbooks.com.

SATURDAY/DEC. 9Meet the Author. 11 a.m. at Scrawl

Books, Reston Town Center, 11862Market St. Dar Williams will be at thestore to sing and sign copies of herbook “What I Found in 1000 Towns:A Traveling Musician’s Guide toRebuilding America’s Communities— One Coffee Shop, Dog Run, andOpen-Mic Night at a Time.” Visitwww.scrawlbooks.com.

Gray Goose Studios Class. 2-4 p.m.at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center St.,Herndon. Children and teens cancreate art in the medium of theirchoice with assistance from theinstructor as needed. Drawing,painting, collage, mosaic, andsculpture supplies provided. Artistscan choose one medium or work inmixed media. $25. Call 703-956-9560 or visit artspaceherndon.com.

Horse-drawn Carriage Rides. 4-9p.m. at Reston Town Center, 11900Market St. $5 per person; children 5and under ride free with adult.Proceeds go to local charities. Call703-709-6720 or visitrestontowncenter.com.

SUNDAY/DEC. 10Mini-Train Rides. noon-4 p.m. at

Reston Town Center, 11900 MarketSt. Proceeds go to local charities. Call703-709-6720 or visitrestontowncenter.com.

Meet the Author. 2 p.m. at ScrawlBooks, Reston Town Center, 11862Market St. Alan Tom will belaunching his new book “TheDisgusting Adventures of Bugabooand Buzz Buzz: Into the Toilet ofDoom.” Visit www.scrawlbooks.com.

Jo Anne RoseGallery

Sunday, Nov. 12 take a visualjourney, 2-4 p.m. at Jo AnneRose Gallery, Reston Commu-nity Center, Lake Anne, 1609-AWashington Plaza, Reston. Pho-tographs by Carla Steckleyincluding infrared and the new-est work, triptychs on canvaswill be on display from Nov. 1-27. Free. [email protected] or call703-476-6016.

Photo by CarlaSteckley in TetonNational Park

Art ExhibitWall hanging is part of a cotton collective art show onexhibit through Dec. 2 at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 CenterSt., Herndon. Exhibit called “The Fabric of Families Cen-ter Street Cotton Collective.” Call 703-956-9560 or visitwww.artspaceherndon.com for more.

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News

By Fallon Forbush

The Connection

The Reston District Station of theFairfax County Police Depart-ment hosted an open house inits parking lot at the North

County Governmental Center on CameronGlen Drive on Saturday, Oct. 21.

Police officers with the station and otherdivisions of the FCPD mingled with visitorsthroughout the day and encouraged chil-dren and parents alike to check out theirvarious vehicles and equipment, includingmotorcycles, boats and cruisers. Severalemployees with the Virginia Department ofTransportation and the Fairfax Connectoralso parked their snow plows and buses forchildren to tour.

The Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office alsoset up a tent to make child identification

cards for families during the open house.Sheriff deputies fingerprinted, photo-graphed and measured children to makefree plastic ID cards for the parent’s safe-keeping. None of the information is retainedby the Sheriff’s Office. The cards are in-tended to be used for assisting law enforce-ment agencies should the children ever be-come missing.

“It gives the public a chance to see all ofthe police toys and talk to police withoutthere being an emergency, someone hurt orin trouble,” said police officer Katy Defoe,a crime prevention specialist for the Restonstation, who organized the event.

Chick-fil-A, Cava Grill and the RestonCitizen’s Advisory Committee also set uptables to hand out food samples and bever-ages.

This was the second open house con-ducted at the North County GovernmentalCenter since it opened in June 2016, ac-cording to Defoe. The center houses thepolice station, the Hunter Mill DistrictSupervisor’s office and a large public roomfor use by Reston residents.

The FCPD Reston District Station covers

Benjamin Hickey, 3, of Oakton is helped onto the motorcycle of policeofficer Hyun Chang of the Fairfax County Police Department’s MotorSquad by his grandmother Diane Frazier of Alexandria.

The Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office set up a tent to make free childidentification cards for families during the open house.

Community Invited To See ‘Police Toys’Reston DistrictStation hostsOpen House.

Patrick Dunn of Reston sits withhis son Lincoln, 1, at the helm of aboat used by the Fairfax CountyPolice Department Special Opera-tions Division Underwater Searchand Recovery Unit during the openhouse.

Dalton Stocks, 4, of Reston maneu-vers a scooter through a DWIobstacle course — without thedrunk goggles — while his grand-mother, Beverly Dulong of Reston,watches.

Patrick Dunn of Reston sits with his son Lincoln, 1, at the helm of a boatused by the Fairfax County Police Department Special Operations Divi-sion Underwater Search and Recovery Unit during the open house.

Hamilton Stocks, 2, of Reston is helped through a DWI obstacle course —without the drunk goggles — by his father Nathan Stocks.

56 square miles in Reston and parts of GreatFalls, Vienna, Oak Hill and Herndon. Thestation employs 137 sworn police officers,

auxiliary officers, police citizen aides, ad-ministrative support staff and school cross-ing guards, according to the FCPD.

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Announcements Announcements



News

From an original pool of more than 350 nomi-nees, the Virginia Commission for the Arts,the state arts agency, has selected the Greater

Reston Arts Center (GRACE) to receive one of its “50for 50 Arts Inspiration Awards” in the category ofBedrock Institutions.

Winners in the Bedrock Institutions category havebeen in existence more than 10 years, have demon-strated a benefit to the economic health and/or tour-ism in the community, exhibit artistic excellence, cel-ebrate diversity, and showcase Virginia as a culturaldestination. GRACE is one of four visual arts institu-tions statewide to be honored.

“This is an incredibly proud moment for GRACE.To be in such rare company is humbling,” said Ex-ecutive Director and Curator Lily Siegel. “All of ushere view this as a real legacy award — one thathonors the many people, fantastic partners, and gen-erous sponsors who over GRACE’s 40+ years havemade this iconic community institution what it istoday. I am very pleased to be moving GRACE for-ward on its vision to elevate the arts in the area byshowcasing local and regional artists alongside art-ists of national and international reputations. We willcontinue to contribute and grow our importance and

relevance in the Commonwealth and DC metropoli-tan region.”

The “50 for 50 Arts Inspiration Awards” were con-ceived and designed by the Commission as a 50th

anniversary tribute to 50 examples of programs, in-dividuals, and organizations critical to the arts inVirginia.

“We are indeed fortunate in Virginia to have anabundant and diverse roster of outstanding artistsand organizations and their supporters spanning dis-ciplines and decades,” said Margaret Vanderhye, theCommission’s executive director. “The 50 selectedwinners are representative of the best, but this list isfar from definitive. Every day in communities acrossthe Commonwealth, thousands of people benefitfrom the creative energies and pursuit of excellencethat characterize Virginia artists and arts organiza-tions,” she concluded.

VCA Commissioner and 50th Anniversary Co-ChairJo Hodgin (Annandale) said, “These awardees carrythe banner for countless arts workers and support-ers who use the arts to build a strong Virginia. Webelieve the arts are essential for a creative 21st cen-tury workforce, economically dynamic communities,and a culture based on wellness and accessibility.”

Gov. Terry McAuliffe; GRACE Board Chair Robert Goudie; VCA Executive DirectorMargaret Vanderhye; and GRACE Executive Director and Curator Lily Siegel.

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GRACE Receives a ‘50 for50 Arts Inspiration’ Award

The Fred Astaire Dance Studio inReston will be hosting a charity galacalled “Dancing with the Services” onNov. 11 at the Crown Plaza HotelDulles. The event, based on the popu-lar television show Dancing with theStars, will feature local DMV celebri-ties. Tucker Barnes from Fox 5, AnnaTrebunskya from ABC’s Dancing withthe Stars, and former NFL star JohnBooty will sit on the judge panel asthey critique the dance moves of theservice members who will be compet-ing for the first place MirrorballTrophy.

This glitzy event will include a din-ner and show for ticket holders. Tenactive service members from thearmed forces Army, Navy, Air Force,

Herndon/Fairfax Police Force,Firefighters & EMTs, even the ViceMayor have volunteered to dance ascompetitors. They will be paired with acertified Fred Astaire dance instructorand learn a dance routine for the judgesto score. The competitors will spendweeks practicing their routines whileraising additional money on their own.All of the proceeds will go to The PinkFund, Fraternal Order of Police & ThePolice Unity Tour.

Susannah Moss, the executive direc-tor for the event and owner of the FredAstaire Dance Studio in Reston, has ex-perience hosting these events. Sheco-founded the annual DC’s DancingStars Gala in Washington, D.C. that gen-erates more than $300,000 a year for

local charities. For this event, shewanted to focus on the people in theDMV area who help their communi-ties thrive and honor all local heroes

This charity event will be a greatopportunity to experience what it’slike to see a Dancing with the Starsshow live. To support the event, con-sider buying a ticket to the event ordonating an item to the silent auc-tion. Service members are thebackbone to our community and it’simportant to recognize their hardwork and dedication. Get more in-formation at Fred Astaire DanceStudio Reston/Herndon; [email protected]; visitwww.dancereston.com; or call 571-306-7925.

‘Dancing With the Services’ RaisesMoney for Local Service Groups


Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

Previously, chemotherapy only hadanecdotally-described memory loss: “chemobrain” as proof of a missing fragment. Recentlyhowever, clinical studies have confirmed the link.Yet, I still feel as if I haven’t forgotten that I don’trecall any prior infusions occurring on the dayafter Thanksgiving, as my next infusion is presentlyscheduled. If I remember correctly, and there areoccasional disputes, this would be the first Fridayafter a holiday when I’ve needed to be local, andinfused. And yes, the Infusion Centers are open forbusiness on the weekdays following majorholidays.

Having recently had my quarterly, post-scan,face-to-face appointment with my oncologist andsurvived the ordeal, we moved on from discussingthe scan results to being examined to schedulingfuture appointments – including a brain MRI andCT Scan, and of course, my next infusion. Andlooking at the calendar, Nov. 24 is that next date.Generally speaking, per previous conversationswith my oncologist, rescheduling my infusions by aweek or two, here or there, had not been much ofa problem (my oncologist is a strong proponent ofquality of life), and pretty much up to me.However, as I’ve gotten older and presumablywiser – and well aware of my creatininelevel/kidney issues, my current infusion schedule iswhat it is for a reason – protecting my kidneys.Moving the infusion up a week or back a week isnot an arbitrary, Kenny-made decision any more,despite my holiday wish least. Sure enough when Iasked my oncologist if he had any thoughts on mypossibly rescheduling my next infusion to fiveweeks or seven weeks (vs. the current six weeks),he had a specific preference: five weeks. Thiswould mean infusing the Friday before the follow-ing Thanksgiving Thursday (the effect of whichwould likely cause some eating challenges foryours truly – on my favorite meal of the year noless) rather than extending the infusion interval toseven weeks.

His thinking, as he explained it to us was: hedidn’t want me to wait any longer for my infu-sion/medicine than was absolutely necessary. Notthat I don’t realize how precarious my situation isbut I am sort of going merrily along of late. Hisrebuke, so to characterize, to me about notextending my next interval to seven weeksreminded me yet again of the seriousness of myunderlying diagnosis. The last thing one can do istake cancer’s inactivity for granted. Even thoughI’ve been stable for four years since I was last hos-pitalized in August 2013, I do have an incurabledisease: non-small cell lung cancer, stage IV, and Iwas initially characterized as “terminal,” so hardlyam I “N.E.D.”, no evidence of disease.

So my next infusion date is up to me, just notas ‘up’ as I thought it was/has been. Either I cankeep my original six-week interval infusionappointment as currently scheduled or I canadvance one week to five weeks (my previousregular interval). Extending it to seven weeks is notrecommended. According to my oncologist, this isgood news. Since my creatinine level/kidney func-tion has not appreciably improved while extend-ing the interval from five to six weeks, shorteningthe interval back to five weeks is not a concern tohim which means my kidneys are up to the chal-lenge, which is very reassuring since kidney dam-age is permanent.

And even though waiting a seventh week formy next infusion might allow my kidneys moretime to filter the chemotherapy a bit longer, itmight also give the cancer some time to activate –and we certainly don’t want that.

However, nothing lasts forever, and cancercells in particular are pretty resourceful and oftenfigure out what’s being done to them and startdoing something else which leads to differenttreatment. At the moment, the drug I’m infusing,alimta, is working miracles. Perhaps the next drugwill be as successful, perhaps not; and that ofcourse is the problem, the unknown.

What I do know is this: a definite is better thana maybe. If I infuse the previous Friday, I definitelywon’t feel like eating on Thursday. If I infuse onthe Friday after Thanksgiving, maybe I won’t feellike driving. So what! A bird in hand ... .

InfusionSchedule is allFowled Up

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Submit civic/community announcements atConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos andartwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, atleast two weeks before event.

ORNAMENT FUNDRAISERWhite House Ornaments Sale. Through Dec.

15, 2017 White House Ornaments available forpurchase from Assistance League of NorthernVirginia for $22 per ornament. Proceeds benefitthe nonprofit’s children’s programs. Localdelivery can be arranged. Visitwww.northernvirginia.assistanceleague.org.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDHerndon High School Library needs

volunteers. olunteering at Herndon HighSchool? The library loves volunteers. Trainingavailable to help with re-shelving books, pullingbooks for teacher use, helping to check passes,or other special projects. [email protected].

NOV. 10-26Parking Garage Closing. Due to construction of

the new Fairfax County commuter parkinggarage at the future Metrorail Silver Line’sHerndon Station site, the access road fromSunrise Valley Drive to the Herndon-MonroePark and Ride facility will be closed startingFriday, Nov. 10, through Sunday, Nov. 26.Commuters who wish to use the existingHerndon-Monroe garage during this time willneed to enter and exit the facility via the DullesToll Road (Rt. 267). This detour will requiredrivers to pay a $1 toll upon exiting the garagewith an E-Z Pass or exact change. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov for more.

DEADLINE NOV. 13Apply for Fuel Assistance. The Virginia

Department of Social Services is currentlyaccepting applications for fuel assistance. Toqualify for fuel assistance, the maximum grossmonthly income for a one-person householdmust not exceed $1,307. For a household offour, the maximum gross monthly income is$2,665. Families and individuals can applythrough their local department of social servicesoffice. To apply online or to check eligibility forservices, visit the CommonHelp website atcommonhelp.virginia.gov. Applications may alsobe submitted by telephone by contacting theEnterprise Customer Service Center, Monday-Friday, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at 855-635-4370.

THURSDAY/NOV. 16Blood Donations Needed. 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at

Amazon Web Services, 12900 Worldgate Drive,Suite 800. With the holiday season comes adecline in donations. By giving blood orplatelets, donors may give patients more time –and more holidays – with loved ones. Make anappointment to give blood by downloading thefree Red Cross Blood Donor App, visitingredcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS(1-800-733-2767).

DMV2Go at the Pavilion. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. atReston Town Center, 11900 Market St. With theDMV wireless office on wheels, apply for orrenew an ID card and driver’s license; getdriving records; obtain vehicle titles, licenseplates, decals, order disabled plates, and more.Visit dmv.virginia.gov.

Public Hearing – Planning Commission. 8:15p.m. in the Board Auditorium of the GovernmentCenter, 12000 Government Center Parkway,Fairfax. The Board of Supervisors authorized theconsideration of a Comprehensive Planamendment to restore inadvertently omittednoise impacts guidance into the Transit StationAreas section of the Reston Plan. The proposedamendment integrates the guidelines for theseareas with the guidance for the Reston TransitStation areas that was adopted in 2016 at theconclusion of Phase I. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpz/fairfaxforward/pa/restontsasnoise/.

NOV. 16-17Thanksgiving Basket Food Drive. To support

this year’s Thanksgiving Basket Food Drive,confirm your donation commitment by Oct. 31at www.cornerstonesva.org/donations/drives.Call 571-323-9569 or [email protected].

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