fun and games at great falls...

From left: Great Falls Elementary Art Instructor Caitlyn Giroux; with Sarah Strohl (Bob Ross Inc) and Joan Kowal-ski (President of Bob Ross Inc); Great Falls Elementary sixth graders enjoyed a morning of fun and games with the Bob Ross Foundation on May 22.

online at www.connectionnewspapers.com June 12-18, 2019

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Langley High Artwork, PoetryHigh School Corner, Page 3

Ending Gerrymandering—Not QuiteOpinion, Page 4

Fun and Games At Great Falls Elementary

News, Page 3

2 ❖ Great Falls Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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Great Falls Connection ❖ June 12-18, 2019 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

NewsGreat Falls Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or [email protected]

Great Falls Elementary sixth graders en-joyed a morning of fun and games withthe Bob Ross Foundation on May 22. BobRoss, the artist and longtime host of the

show “The Joy of Painting,” died in 1995. He was abeloved TV personality, known for his quaint expres-sions and lighthearted approach to teaching paint-ing techniques from 1983 to 1994 on PBS stationsaround the US and beyond. In recent years, he hasbecome something of an internet sensation withyoung people, as many GFES sixth graders can at-test.

Under the leadership of GFES art instructor, CaitlynGiroux, sixth graders wrote letters (yes, the old fash-ioned kind with a postage stamp) to the Herndon-based foundation to express their admiration of BobRoss and an interest in finding out more about theartist. They were rewarded for their efforts with avisit from the foundation that was both informativeand interactive.

Adia said “It was very humbling to see paintingscreated by such an iconic artist.”

“It was fun looking at the paintings and seeing thetexture and the attention to detail,” reported Will-iam.

The event at GFES included Bob Ross Bingo, photoops with original Bob Ross paintings and a lifesizecutout, Q&A with the foundation leadership and funartist-themed prizes. It was a memorable event anda testament to the ability of our young FCPS stu-dents to make things happen.

— Sandra Musser/GFES Parent

“Haikus”By Jack Ellinger

SummerSafe from Autumn’s darkSafe from Winter’s icy coldSummer’s illusion

SummerSummer shows its faceFull and colorful and loudNo more sleeping now

PeaceBirdsong fills the airGentle stream to cool my feetSoft grass is my bed

BlackberriesYoung child’s purple mouthBlackberries perfect pickingSummer’s in full bloom

Fun and Games atGreat Falls Elementary

Nate McDonnell is a doppelgänger for BobRoss in celebration of this special day.

Lauren Santos, Eden Whalen, AdiaWatson and Sadie Leasure show offtheir Bingo prizes.

High School Corner

“Eye,” by Anja O’Brien

Anja O’Brien

HaleyClemente,Fiona Wong,Teddy Musser,AriaBagherianniaand WesleyKim enjoy anoriginal BobRoss painting.

Photos by

Sandra Musser

High School Corner is edited byLangley High School LiteraryMagazine Editor Anja O’Brien.


Opinion

By John Lovaas

Reston Impact Producer/Host

Virginia is on the vergeof reforming its legisla-tive redistricting pro-cess (for VA Senate,

House of Delegates and US Houseof Representatives) following thenational census every ten years.The antiquated process encour-ages rampant gerrymandering,i.e., deliberate manipulation of district lines tothe advantage of the party in power and in-cumbents. Incumbents are protected; commu-nities are carved up; elections are less competi-tive; partisan gridlock is the norm and com-promise impossible. Legislators select their vot-ers instead of vice versa. Thanks to the work ofthe non-profit One Virginia 2021 and other re-form advocates, the Virginia General Assembly(Senate and House of Delegates) passed a bi-partisan constitutional amendment in 2019 toreform the process for redistricting. If enacted,it could reduce abuses with a more transpar-ent and balanced process. To be enacted, it mustbe passed again, by the newly elected legisla-ture in 2020, and then be approved by Virginiavoters in a statewide referendum in Nov. 2021.The amendment came out of a legislative con-ference. It was a compromise with provisionsfrom several proposals. The amendment cre-ates a redistricting commission composed of 8legislators and 8 citizens (the first citizen in-

volvement ever). Citizens will bebipartisan, with their final selec-tion made by a panel of 5 retiredcircuit court judges from a largepool put forth by the legislature.To pass any new district maps, asupermajority of 6 legislators and6 citizens is required. The Su-preme Court of VA. will decide if

they cannot agree. All commission meetingsand records are open to the public. The legis-lature will vote to approve or not any newmaps, but it cannot amend them.

One Virginia 2021 says categorically thatalthough the amendment does not include allthey proposed, “This will end partisan gerry-mandering in Virginia.” Del. Ken Plum sees itas a “great improvement,” but acknowledgesthat it is “not perfect.” Nevertheless, he says it“need[s] to get on the ballot for voter approvalin time for the 2020…redistricting.”

Others, like Reston’s Bill Penniman, a publicpolicy specialist, and myself believe there areserious shortcomings. For example, we thinkthere is a distinct possibility that the legisla-ture will largely still control the process. Thelegislators on the commission will have an in-terest in protecting their seats and, while di-viding them up may reduce potential for abuses,the temptation for trading among them is a realpossibility. Some partisan gerrymandering

abuses may be tamped down, but stopping in-cumbent protection will be tougher to achieve.

The citizen commissioners will be at a dis-advantage. Lacking technical support and timefor meaningful deliberation may weaken theirpotential for fair drawing of districts. The citi-zen members will be on a tight time scheduleto hold public hearings around the state anddraw maps for 140 General Assembly districtsand 11 congressional districts. This could re-sult in citizen commissioners ending up vot-ing on districts as proposed to them by the leg-islative contingent.

Fixing glitches in the operation of the com-mission will be limited to things that can bedone without having to amend the constitu-tional amendment. For example, the legisla-ture, if there is the will, can level the playingfield for citizen commissioners by providing fortechnical support and providing tools forgreater scrutiny and reporting to the public ofwhat goes on in the commission.

Perhaps we critics overestimate the flaws. Ihope so, because gerrymandering is a major tearin the fabric of our democratic form of govern-ment. In any case, we agree that the proposedamendment may lead to significant improve-ment in drawing fairer federal and state legis-lative districts, certainly enough to justify pro-ceeding. I suggest you let your legislators knowyou want them to vote for the amendment inthe 2020 session. Reform is difficult work, mademore so when it depends on some who perceiveit as not in their interest to succeed.

Constitutional Amendment to EndGerrymandering — Not Quite

Independent Progressive

By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum

State Delegate (D-36)

Virginians are lovers of his-tory, including this Virgin-ian as regular readers of

this column know. This year Vir-ginia is celebrating 400 years sincethe first representative legislativebody met at Jamestown. Virginiais the Mother of Presidents.

One bit of history that continues to loomlarge in Virginia’s psyche these days with aslittle mention as possible from the state apolo-gists is the prevalence of gun violence in theCommonwealth. Twelve years ago the campusof Virginia Tech was the scene of the largestmass murder of its time. While other massmurders have occurred since then, VA Techthrough no direct fault of its own continues tohold the record for the most people killed on acollege campus.

Virginia last week made history again. Vir-ginia Beach was the scene of the biggest massmurder so far this year. A dubious distinctionthat we would least like to have. Virginia lost1,028 people to gun violence in 2017, and asthe Governor described it, that is almost threepeople a day; that is more deaths than thosedue to vehicle accidents.

For Governor Ralph Northamand for me and countless otherVirginians, we long ago have hadenough. As Governor Northamsaid in a press conference which Itook part in last week: “No oneshould go to work, to school, orto church wondering if they willcome home. But that is what our

society has come to, because we fail to act ongun violence. I will be asking for votes andlaws, not thoughts and prayers.”

The laws he is seeking to get passed havebeen introduced in the General Assembly dur-ing its regular sessions without success. In aspecial session that will begin in the comingweeks, only bills intended to end gun violencewill be considered. And the Governor requestedthat “members of the General Assembly engagein an open and transparent debate and thatthe bills brought before the legislature are putto a vote by the entire General Assembly.”

Bills related to gun violence that have beenintroduced in the regular session including mybill to require universal background checkshave been routinely referred by the Speakerof the House to the Militia, Police and PublicSafety Committee where they are sent to a sub-

committee of six members. The members ofthe subcommittee are appointed by theSpeaker of the House, four of whom have per-fect voting records of opposing any gun safetylegislation. My background check bill and theapproximate 15 other bills related to prevent-ing gun violence were defeated on a predict-able vote of 2 to 4 with limited discussion ordebate. Yes, that’s right. Four members whoare buddies with the NRA get to make the de-cision of 140 elected members of the GeneralAssembly.

It is time for Virginia to make historyagain by leading the nation in doing theright thing to end gun violence. Voters,please pay close attention to how yourelected representatives vote.

Special Session on Gun ViolenceCommentary “Four members who

are buddies with theNRA get to make thedecision of 140 electedmembers of the Gen-eral Assembly.”

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News

By Mercia Hobson

The Connection

The first group of Herndon HighSchool students, members of Prideof Herndon Marching Band, and

support staff departed for their long-awaited trip to Normandy, France, Tuesday,June 4 taking off early in the afternoon.

The Pride of Herndon represented theUnited States in a parade marking the 75thanniversary of D-Day invasion on the coastof France known as the “liberation of Eu-

rope.” June 6 is the 75th anniversary of theD-Day landings.

According to Herndon High School Band,the Pride will honor the World War II ser-vicemen and women, veterans, active dutymilitary, and their families and pay a spe-cial tribute to the men of the U.S.S.Herndon, the destroyer that led the Alliednaval armada in the assault on France.

The marching banner will have a photo-graph of the ship, and each student willcarry a picture of one of the veterans as theymarch.

Represents the United Statesat the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

Pride of Herndon HonorsD-Day in Normandy

In photos: The first group of Herndon High School band members fromthe Pride of Herndon Marching Band led by Director of Bands KathleenJacoby prepares to depart Dulles International Airport, shortly afternoon on Tuesday, June 4, destination Normandy, France and the 75thAnniversary of D-Day.

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

FRIDAY/JUNE 14Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training.

9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Pennino GovernmentBuilding (Rooms 200 + 206), 12011Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. JoinSCAN for a Stewards of Children Child SexualAbuse Prevention Training. As a Partner inPrevention with Darkness to Light, SCAN offersthis evidence-informed training to empoweradults to take action to protect the children intheir lives. Free; space is limited. Register atscanD2Lfairfax.eventbrite.com.

Application Deadline: Fire Academy. TheFairfax County Fire and Rescue Departmentisnow accepting applications for its Girls Fire andRescue Academy summer camp, which will takeplace July 11-13, 2019. The Academy is open tofemale students who will be in grades 7-12 inthe upcoming 2019-2020 school year.Participants must be a Fairfax County resident.Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire-ems.

WEDNESDAY/JUNE 19Juneteenth Revival. 6 p.m., dinner; 7 p.m.,

program at First Baptist Church of Vienna, 450Orchard St., NW, Vienna. The program willfeature music by the Juneteenth CommunityChoir. Guest speaker, Bishop McKissick, Jr., isthe Senior Pastor of the Bethel BaptistInstitutional Church in Jacksonville. Visitfbcv.org or call 703-938-8525.

Vienna Woman’s Club Meeting. 7-9 p.m. atVienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St. SE,Vienna. Vienna Woman’s Club invitesprospective members to its open membershipmeeting with a guest speaker on a commoninterest subject. Visitwww.ViennaWomansClub.org for more.

THURSDAY/JUNE 20Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training.

9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Pennino GovernmentBuilding (Rooms 200 + 206), 12011

Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. JoinSCAN for a Stewards of Children Child SexualAbuse Prevention Training. As a Partner inPrevention with Darkness to Light, SCAN offersthis evidence-informed training to empoweradults to take action to protect the children intheir lives. Free; space is limited. Register atscanD2Lfairfax.eventbrite.com.

Caregivers Support Group. 10-11:30 a.m. atUUCF Unitarian Universalist Congregation ofFairfax - Program Building, 2709 Hunter MillRoad, Oakton. For caregivers to adult familymembers with dementia. First and thirdThursdays of every month. Hosted by Shepherd’sCenter of Oakton-Vienna, scov.org. Contactfacilitator Jack Tarr at 703-821-6838 [email protected].

Memory Cafe. 2-4 p.m. at Andrew Chapel UnitedMethodist Church, 1301 Trap Road, Vienna.Connect with others living with loved ones withdementia. Helping those with dementia andtheir caregivers find fun, resources and “family.”Email Carol Blackwell at [email protected] orcall at 571-236-6933.

MONDAY-FRIDAY/JUNE 24-28Hogwarts Vacation Bible School. Monday-

Friday, June 24-28 at Holy Comforter. Allchildren 5-11 years old are invited to participatein a summer camp experience which exploresthe Christian themes and lessons in the HarryPotter stories. Holy Comforter is magicallyconverted into Hogwarts School where childrenattend “classes” taught by favorite professorsincluding Prof. McGonagall, Snape, Hooch, andBinns. Teenage prefects lead age level groups totheir activities and all students share a closingsnack in the Great Hall. Morning Session: 9a.m.-noon; afternoon session: 1:30-4:30 p.m.Download registration forms atwww.holycomforter.com.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 28-30Women’s Summit. Tysons McLean Hilton, 7920

Jones Branch Drive, McLean. Speakers andworkshops cover women in politics, education,equality, diversity, environment, healthcare,

Bulletin Board


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

ONGOINGThe Member of the Wedding.

Extended through June 16 at 1stStage Theater, 1524 Spring HillRoad, Tysons. Adapted from thebeloved novel of the same name, thisevocative, poetic coming of agedrama explores the pains of youthand the meaning of family. TheMember of the Wedding will runThursdays, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8p.m.; Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m.; andSundays at 2 p.m. The run time isapproximately 2 hours with one 15-minute intermission. Captions andaudio description will be offered forselect performances. $15-$39. Visitwww.1ststage.org or call 703-854-1856 for tickets.

Oak Marr Farmers’ Market. 8 a.m.-noon at Oak Marr RECenter, 3200Jermantown Road, Oakton. EveryWednesday through Nov. 13, rain orshine. Vendors include produce,meats, eggs, cheeses, pies, cured andsmoked meats, popsicles, sorbet,bread, croissants, falafel sandwiches,humus, and pesto. Call 703-281-6501or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets/oak-marr formore.

McLean Farmers Market. Fridays,through Nov. 15, 8 a.m.-noon atLewinsville Park, 1659 Chain BridgeRoad, McLean. Sixteen local farmersand producers will sell fresh produceand fruits; meats; breads andpastries; jams; dairy products andeggs; herbs; flowers, coffee, andmore. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets/mclean.

Great Falls Farmers Market.Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 778 WalkerRoad, Great Falls. Music, vendors,fresh produce, fresh prepared food,delightful bakery, spices from aroundthe world, wild-caught fish, grass-fed, free-range meats, organic-fedpoultry and eggs. [email protected] more.

Oakton Farmers Market. Saturdays,9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Unity of FairfaxChurch, 2854 Hunter Mill Road,Oakton. Year-round weekly farmersmarket in Oakton. Local produce,meats/eggs, dairy, baked goods, andmore. Admission is free. Visitcommunity-foodworks.org.

FRIDAY/JUNE 14Dining with Dorothy. 12:30 p.m. at

Olive Garden, 8133 Leesburg Pike,Vienna. – A program of theShepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna.Join with friends or make new ones.Newcomers are always welcome. Toreserve a space contact event chair,Dorothy Flood [email protected].

ESL Playdate Cafe. 1-2 p.m. atOakton Library, 10304 LynnhavenPlace, Oakton. Meet other caregiversof young children. Adults practiceEnglish while children enjoy playtime in the same room. Birth-5 yearswith adult. Free. Call 703-242-4020or visitibrarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/5260042.

Summer on the Green: NowhereMan (acoustic Beatles tributeband). 6:30 p.m. on Vienna’s TownGreen. The Summer on the Greenconcert series returns to Vienna’sTown Green Friday nights throughAug. 23. Please see the text below orthe attached release for details. Bringchairs and/or blankets. No alcoholicbeverages are permitted. Considerleaving pets at home. In the event ofrain, check the weather line at 703-255-7842. Learn more atwww.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3997.

Movie Night: Loving. 7:30-10 p.m. atUnity of Fairfax, 2854 Hunter MillRoad, Oakton. Mystical Movie Night,features “Loving.” The movie tells thestory of Richard and Mildred Loving,a couple whose arrest for interracialmarriage in 1960s Virginia began alegal battle that would end with theSupreme Court’s historic 1967decision that Virginia’s interracialmarriage law violated the 14thAmendment to the Constitution.Free. All are welcome. Call 703-281-1767 or visit mysticalmovienight-loving.eventbrite.com.

SATURDAY/JUNE 15Spring Fair. 10 am.-2 p.m. at Pleasant

Grove, 8641 Lewinsville Road,McLean. Pleasant Grove is holding itscommunity fair, featuring “attictreasures” quality yard sale andantiques, a homemade bake sale,lunch, an artisan-made quilt raffle,and a Tom Sawyer clean-up day. Allproceeds are donated to PleasantGrove. Stop by Friday to drop offdonated “attic treasures.” Forinformation, visitwww.HistoricPleasantGrove.org.

Classic Truck and Car Show. 11a.m.-3 p.m. at First Baptist Church ofVienna, 450 Orchard St., NW,Vienna. The First Baptist Church ofVienna, Va., will celebrateJuneteenth with Classic Truck andCar Show. There will be vendors,food concessions, educationalpresentations, musical entertainment,African dancers, African drummers,video game truck and fun games forthe kids. A Juneteenth Revival takesplace on Wednesday, June 19. Visitfbcv.org or call 703-938-8525.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY/JUNE 15-16Father’s Day Park Programs. This

Father’s Day weekend spend timewith fathers and grandfathers in aprogram just for them at a countypark.

❖ Golf Tournament. Saturday, 8a.m.-noon at Burke Lake Golf Course.Kick off the weekend with the“Father’s Day Golf Tournament.”Two-player teams compete in an 18-hole scramble format in threedivisions: Father/Jr. 7-12; Father/Jr.13-17; Father/Adult partner withclosest-to-the-pin contests and prizesfor the top three places in all threedivisions. $75 per team includeslunch. Call 703-323-1641 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/burke-lake.

❖ Wood Carving. Sunday, noon-4p.m. at Colvin Run Mill. Celebrate bytreating Dad to a free wood carvinglesson with the Northern VirginiaCarvers. There is a nominal chargefor wood blanks. While visiting themill, take a tour. Dads and grandadstour for free on Father’s Day whenaccompanied by a paying child. Call703-759-2771 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/colvin-run-mill.

❖ “Animal Dads.” Sunday, 1-1:45 atHidden Oaks Nature Center,Annandale. Children age 2-6 canpretend to be a penguin, wolf andbeaver dad as they learn about thesedoting fathers. Participants will meetlive animals and make a craft fortheir favorite father/grandfather. Theprogram at Hidden Oaks NatureCenter runs from 1 to 1:45 p.m. $8

Entertainment

Live Music: Lily Neill & Clive CarrollHarpist Lily Neill and guitarist Clive Carroll make their debut concert as a duo

at Jammin Java. Between them, harpist Lily Neill and guitarist Clive Carroll haveperformed around the world, from North America to the Far East and everywherein between. Primarily known as soloists, their musical union extends from their loveof a vast array of musical styles—from eat-your-heart-out blues, to fiery dances fromEastern Europe, beguiling Irish airs, jaunty Ragtime numbers, and Elizabethan luteclassics. To their duo they bring all the intensity of their solo performances andmore, conjuring a genre-bending orchestra from two modest plucked-string instru-ments. Wednesday, June 19, 7:30 p.m. at Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna.$20-$25. Visit www.jamminjava.com.

See Calendar, Page 9


HAIL DAMAGEDear Homeowner:If you live in Northern Virginia, your siding and perhaps your roofand gutters may have been damaged by recent hailstorms. Locallybased Wadden Construction, insurance replacement specialists forthe past 15 years, has helped thousands of residents with their dam-age claims. If your home has hail damage, you may be entitled to acombination of a new roof, gutters and complete wrap of your homewith a quality vinyl product.

The damage to the siding appears as indentations ranging from peasize to quarter size. The pea size dents are difficult to see without atrained eye. So please do not dismiss this letter if you cannot see thedamage, as practically every home in your area was hit by hail. Youmay have damage and not even known it. Whatever the size, youmay indeed be entitled to a complete vinyl wrap of your home.

Not all siding and Roofing products are created equal. WaddenConstruction, PREFERRED CONTRACTOR FOR NORANDEX andCERTAINTEED, is proud to use the Norandex Sagebrush (.050) thethickest vinyl siding on the market, and the Certainteed LandmarkLifetime warranty Architectural shingle.

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HomeLifeStyle

By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

From adding a burst of boldly colored angu-lar shapes to a sterile, white wall to usingspheres in muted tones to create serenityin a bedroom, abstract art has the ability to

set the tone or change the mood of a space. In spiteof its versatility, melding it tastefully into a home’sdécor can be daunting. Local designers share theirstrategies for aesthetically appealing placement ofthis adaptable art form.

Abstract art can become the center of attention ina space, notes Pamela Harvey of Pamela Harvey In-teriors of Herndon, Va. “One of my favorite ways totransform the look of a room is to add an over-sizedpiece of abstract art to create a dramatic focal point,”she said. “My go-to frame is a simple floater frameto give the art a clean finished look.”

Abstract art works well in pairs allowing the useof smaller scale pieces, advises Amanda Mertins ofPatina Polished Living in Alexandria.

“Don’t be afraid to hang abstract art in gallery style.Be mindful to use like frames and materials,” shesaid. “The use of complementary colors to your spaceis a safe way to incorporate abstract art into yourdécor without allowing it to grab all the attention.”

One of Mertins’ favorite uses of abstract art is pair-ing it with what she describes as its decorative op-posite: traditional décor. “Beautiful wood furniture,silver, crystal lighting and porcelain accessories areperfect as a backdrop for bold prints and abstractpaintings,” she said. “Mirrors are wonderful to useas abstract décor, but always pay attention to whatwill be reflected in the mirror.”

Abstract art work is a versatile accessory and workswell in modern as well as traditional room settings,suggests Harvey. “When choosing a piece I look forsomething that has some of the room’s existing col-ors in it with an opportunity to introduce new colorsinto the space.”

Harvey implemented this technique in the recent

re-design of a client’s living room. “We added a piecethat had blue and white, but introduced a bold pinkto create a dramatic focal point on the back wall.”

Abstract art shouldn’t be limited to neutral spaces,says Annie Elliott of Bossy Color, Interior Design byAnnie Elliott. “If your walls are white and your fur-niture is gray, the effect will be pretty, but cold andmuseum-like, not homey,” she said. “You shouldcomplement a painting’s colors [and] the roomshould feel harmonious. If you put a red sofa undera red and blue painting, the effect may [appear simi-lar too] a hotel lobby.”

From a practical standpoint, Anne Walker of AnneWalker Design believes in mixing media to avoid cre-ating a space that has an overly uniform aesthetic.“Oil paintings, both abstract and traditional, framedphotography, sculpture, textiles, antique botanicals,framed mirrors, antique porcelain china – all of theseart forms can co-exist happily in a single home,” shesaid.

Versatility is one of the traits of abstract art thatMertins appreciates. “This style of art can be verybold and take charge of a room or be soft and fadeinto the background,” she said. “If your room needsa focal point, then abstract art is the way to go.”

“The use of black and white art will make a boldstatement without adding color to a space,” contin-ued Mertins. “Monolithic art produces a solid look,splatter art is happy and upbeat while graceful linedrawings impart a feeling romance and intrigue.Photographic art can be personal, bold and some-times more affordable than painted pieces.”

Works of art that one purchases spontaneously,such as during travels, is often both more meaning-ful and more likely to enhance a home’s décor, saysWalker. “When art is purchased for the entire homeall at once, the result can often feel contrived,” shesaid.

“Surround yourself with art, furnishings and ob-jects that make you feel joyful, and consult a designprofessional if you need help editing or arrangingyour collection,” continued Walker. “I’ve often helpedclients sort through their existing art collections andplace them in just the right spot,” she said. “Movinga piece of art from the wrong location to the rightlocation can not only transform a room, it can trans-form the work of art itself.”

Ideas for decorating withthis adaptable art form.

Versatility of Abstract Art

Designer AnnieElliott designed thisroom adding anabstract painting byartist Karen Silve.

Photo by

Angie Seckinger


MAIN STREET HOME IMPROVEMENTSiding - Decks - Roofing – Windows – Patios

Entertainment

Ants Ants AntsWith their optimistic lyrics and innovative instrumentation, Ants Ants Ants of-

fers an invitation into that golden childhood we always dreamed of having andcreating for the ones we love. Johnny Clay and Dave Gulick, the founding indierock duo behind Ants Ants Ants, will perform with a full band. Ages 2 and older.Friday, June 28, 10:30 a.m. at Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, 1551Trap Road, Vienna. $10. Visit www.wolftrap.org.

From Page 7

per child. Children must be accompaniedby an adult. Call 703-941-1065 orvisit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hidden-oaks.

❖ Family Fishing. Sunday, 2-3:30p.m. and 4:30-6 p.m. at RiverbendPark, Great Falls. If Dad likes to fish,register for the “Father’s Day FamilyFishing” program at Riverbend Park.Supplies and equipment will beprovided, or bring a rod and reel.Pick up some fishing tips. All fishcaught will be released. Designed forparticipants age 4-adult. $12 perperson. Call 703-759-9018 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

❖ Father’s Day Campfire. Sunday,6-7 p.m. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park,Chantilly. Wrap up the day with the“Father’s Day Campfire.” Learn aboutsome of nature’s best fathers, take ahike near a stream and eat s’mores.Of course, moms are invited, too. $8per person. Children must beaccompanied by a registered adult.Call 703-631-0013 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/eclawrence.

SUNDAY/JUNE 16Breakfast Buffet. 8 a.m.-noon at

Vienna American Legion Post 180,330 Center St., N. Vienna. Getomelets, scrambled eggs, blueberrypancakes, bacon, sausage, biscuitsand gravy and more. Adults $10,children 12 and under $4. Call 703-938-6580.

Summer Concerts: AlphabetRockers. 5 p.m. in the gazebo ofMcLean Central Park, 1468 DolleyMadison Blvd., McLean. The Alden atthe McLean Community Center isagain sponsoring free summerconcerts in the gazebo of McLeanCentral Park featuring a mix ofmusical genres Get moving to musicthat moves you. Call 703-790-0123or visit www.aldentheatre.org.

Concerts on the Green: WesTucker & The Skillets. 6-8 p.m.on the Great Falls Village CentreGreen. Bring picnic baskets, chairsand blankets for an evening of livemusic. Free. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.

WEDNESDAY/JUNE 19Live Music: Lily Neill & Clive

Carroll. 7:30 p.m. at Jammin Java,227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna. HarpistLily Neill and guitarist Clive Carrollmake their debut concert as a duo atJammin Java. $20-$25. Visitwww.jamminjava.com.

THURSDAY/JUNE 20Nottoway Nights: Moonshine

Society. 7:30 p.m. at NottowayPark, 9537 Courthouse Road, Vienna.Thursday evenings, June 20-Aug. 22(except July 4). Bring a picnic and ablanket or chair. For last minuteweather cancellations call 703-324-7469 one hour prior to the programstart time.

Live Music: Maggie Rose. 7:30 p.m.at Wolf Trap, Vienna. Opening forTrampled By Turtles and Deer Tick.$30. Visitwww.maggierosemusic.com orwww.wolftrap.org.

FRIDAY/JUNE 21White Elephant Bingo & Ice Cream

Social. 1:30-3:30 p.m. at ViennaCommunity Center, 129 Cherry StSE, Vienna. Adults 50+ meet up foran afternoon of White ElephantBingo and an Ice Cream Social.Enjoy a traditional bingo game in afriendly atmosphere and win whiteelephant prizes. Bingo cards are $2for 2. Pay at door. Please bring awhite elephant item in goodcondition to donate to the prizetable. Call the Shepherd’s Center at

703-281-0538 to register or withquestions.

Summer on the Green: Chillin’ onChurch: The Deja Gruv Band(R&B, funk, and soul). 6:30 p.m.on Vienna’s Town Green. TheSummer on the Green concert seriesreturns to Vienna’s Town GreenFriday nights through Aug. 23. Pleasesee the text below or the attachedrelease for details. Bring chairs and/or blankets. No alcoholic beveragesare permitted. Consider leaving petsat home. In the event of rain, checkthe weather line at 703-255-7842.Learn more at www.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3997.

SATURDAY/JUNE 22AAUW McLean Branch Used Book

Collection. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. SunTrustBank, 515 Maple Ave. East, Vienna.Used books, CDs, DVDs, software,children’s books, records, and recenttextbooks. No encyclopedias, VHS oraudiotapes. The Book Sale will beheld on Sept. 13-15 at the McLeanCommunity Center, 1234 InglesideAve., McLean. Proceeds benefitscholarships for women. Questions,contact [email protected], or703-527-4206.

SUNDAY/JUNE 23Summer Concerts: Jazzy Ash and

the Leaping Lizards. 5 p.m. in thegazebo of McLean Central Park, 1468Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean. TheAlden at the McLean CommunityCenter is again sponsoring freesummer concerts in the gazebo ofMcLean Central Park featuring a mixof musical genres Get moving tomusic that moves you. Call 703-790-0123 or visit www.aldentheatre.org.

Concerts on the Green: MarsRodeo. 6-8 p.m. on the Great FallsVillage Centre Green. Bring picnicbaskets, chairs and blankets for anevening of live music. Free. Visitwww.celebrategreatfalls.org.

THURSDAY/JUNE 27Nottoway Nights: City of Fairfax

Band ‘Alte Kameraden’ (Musicof Germany). 7:30 p.m. atNottoway Park, 9537 CourthouseRoad, Vienna. Thursday evenings,June 20-Aug. 22 (except July 4).Bring a picnic and a blanket or chair.For last minute weather cancellationscall 703-324-7469 one hour prior tothe program start time.

FRIDAY/JUNE 28Ants Ants Ants. 10:30 a.m. at Wolf

Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna.With their optimistic lyrics andinnovative instrumentation, AntsAnts Ants offers an invitation intothat golden childhood we alwaysdreamed of having and creating forthe ones we love. Ages 2 and older.$10. Visit www.wolftrap.org.

Summer on the Green: SarahBennet Swanner. 6:30 p.m. onVienna’s Town Green. The Summeron the Green concert series returns toVienna’s Town Green Friday nightsthrough Aug. 23. Please see the textbelow or the attached release fordetails. Bring chairs and/or blankets.No alcoholic beverages are permitted.Consider leaving pets at home. In theevent of rain, check the weather lineat 703-255-7842. Learn more atwww.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3997.

SATURDAY/JUNE 29July 4th in June. All day at Lake

Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake FairfaxDrive, Reston. Get the nation’sbirthday party started early. The parkopens at dawn and the fun continuesuntil the last fireworks disappearfrom the sky after dark. The waterpark is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Therewill be live music with ModernVintage and the U.S. Navy BandCommodores from 3:30-9 p.m. Foodvendors will be on hand throughoutthe day. Fireworks begin at 9:15p.m.. The park generally closes tonew arrivals around 8:45 p.m. Walkor bike to the park and admission isfree. There is a parking fee of $10 pervehicle. The rain date Sunday, June30. Call 703-471-5414 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-fairfax.

Intro Canoeing Tour. 5:30-7:30 p.m.at Riverbend Park, 8700 PotomacHills S., Great Falls.Come andexperience the upper Potomac’sbeautiful scenery and wildlife fromthe water. Start with an introductionto canoeing basics and then head outonto the river with an instructor. Thisis not a whitewater tour and is goodfor canoeing beginners. There will bethree people per canoe and paddlingand safety gear is provided. $41 perperson. For participants age 16 to adultand will be canceled in the event ofinclement weather or hazardous riverconditions. Call 703-759-9018 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.


News

Yena Han, 5, from Fairfax loves jumping high on the Spiderman ride.

Celebrating FairfaxF

airfax County Government Center hosted the38th annual Celebrate Fairfax festival fromJune 7-9. The event was filled with a wide range

of activities for the whole family including carnival ridesand game s, local vendors, and performances from rockbands Better Than Ezra and Smash Mouth.

Joe Buchino and his son, Joe Jr., 3, fromOakton, enjoyed the fireworks andfiretrucks on display at Celebrate Fairfax.

Mali, 7, from Vienna shows off her facepaint.

Andrew Kraak, who works in Fairfax, andhis fiancée Gretchen Pascolini enjoy therainy Sunday Brew with music from HerrMetal.

Friends (from back left) John Park, MadhiLin, Faith Vargas, Fatima Vargas, Bao Ho,and Tanvi Wason, all form Fairfax, werenot deterred by Sunday’s rain to have agood time at Celebrate Fairfax.

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racial and social justice, reproductive freedom,public safety, rural economy, voting rights, andfamily friendly economy. $139. Visitnetworknova.org for more.

THURSDAY/AUG. 1Champions of Character Nomination

Deadline. The nomination process for the 2019annual Fairfax County Champions of CharacterAwards are underway. The Fairfax CountyChampions of Character Awards program honorsyouth, coaches and parents for extraordinaryservice in pursuing victory with honor in variousathletics programs throughout Fairfax County.Anyone can nominate a player, coach or parentfor consideration of a Champions of CharacterAward. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/athletics/champions-of-character for more.

SUPPORT GROUPSParent Support Partners, a service of the

Healthy Minds Fairfax initiative, are all parentswho have received training and are qualitied tooffer education, support and assistance at nocost to families or caregivers. They providereliable information that families can use indecision-making and are familiar with servicesand resources that can help families in distress.Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/healthymindsfairfax or www.nami-northernvirginia.org/parent-peer-support.html.

Shepherd’s Center of Oakton ViennaCaregivers’ Support Group takes place firstand third Thursday of each month, 10-11:30a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregationof Fairfax (UUCF) - Program Building, 2709Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. For caregivers toadult family members with dementia. First andthird Thursdays of every month. Hosted byShepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna, scov.org.Contact facilitator Jack Tarr at 703-821-6838 [email protected].

Haven of Northern Virginia Support Group.703-941-7000, www.havenofnova.org [email protected].

Virginia Chronic Pain Support Group Meetsfrom 1:30-3 p.m. the 2nd Wednesday of eachmonth at Kaplan Center for IntegrativeMedicine, 6829 Elm St., Suite 300, McLean.Group leader, Jodi Brayton, LCSW. 703-532-4892.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDAssistance League of Northern Virginia, a

volunteer nonprofit, invites community membersto join the organization to participate in itsReading Express program. Volunteers provideone-on-one tutoring to first grade studentsduring the school year. To learn more contactVP Membership Mary Gronlund [email protected] or Program Coordinator LynnBarron at [email protected].

Volunteer Adult Mentors Needed. Assist theDepartment of Family Services’ BeFriendA-Childmentoring program. Mentors providecompanionship, guidance and support tochildren who have been abused and neglected,or who are at risk of abuse and neglect. ContactIbrahim Khalil at [email protected]

Operation Paws for Homes, a Virginia based501(c)(3) organization seeks volunteers,especially to foster dogs. Seewww.ophrescue.org for information and allvolunteer opportunities.

RSVP, a volunteer network for seniors seekingservice opportunities in and around FairfaxCounty, Arlington County and the City ofAlexandria, offers a wide array of opportunitiesfor volunteers 55 and older. RSVP volunteersenjoy flexible schedules, free accident andliability insurance while serving, optionalmileage and meal reimbursement and areinvited to volunteer group projects and socialgatherings. To sign up for an upcomingorientation, email Carly Hubicki [email protected] or call RSVP at703-403- 5360. To learn more about RSVP, visitwww.rsvpnova.org.

Shepherd’s Center of McLean-Arlington-Falls Church, 1205 Dolley Madison Blvd.,McLean continues to have an urgent need fornew volunteers to help area senior citizens getto and from their medical and therapyappointments. To find out more about theShepherd’s Center and how you can volunteer toprovide transportation and other services, callthe Center at 703-506-2199 or e-mail the Centerat [email protected]. The Center’s website iswww.scmafc.org.

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

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

The least of it was my pre-immunotherapy lab work on Wednesday and then my actual immuno-therapy infusion on Friday. The most of it was my navigating websites and trying to properly complete applications/enrollment forms for the Virginia Un-employment Commission and the Maryland Health Connection.

For a man (me) who fancies himself your go-to-guy for sports and chocolate, getting immersed in policies and procedures for government agencies

– with our (my wife, Dina and I) respective lives somewhat dependent on the time-sensitive comple-tion of said documents, was akin to sending yours truly out to sing the National Anthem at the next Nationals’ game. It would be a disaster of titanic proportions (fortunately without the loss of life).

As it has been my entire life, I can’t sing any more than I can now compute.

As I sit and write this week’s column, having barely survived the excruciating ordeal of this past

Monday – I now have next week to look forward to. And what garden path am I leading you down?

Another week of time-sensitive/computer-centric tasks, of course. Once again I will be sitting at my computer attempting to navigate through another government web site and this time a private sector website, as I try to sign up for Medicare effective Sept. 1, as well as the associated but independent

in the coverage gaps that I, as a former insurance broker, know exist.

Granted, with these two tasks I do have some time. I just hope I have the wherewithal.

This past week took a toll emotionally. And I’m not sure if I really want to climb that emotional mountain yet again.

This week’s tasks are not any easier. Shooting

easier said than impossibly done. For a man who knows his limitations, the week ahead will likely test those limitations.

But if not me, then who? Unfortunately, it has to be me. The other party with whom I share a long-standing arrangement has a skill set unsuited to and incompatible with, computers, and the kind of searching/deciphering/hunting and pecking on web sites required for completion of this week’s tasks.

Moreover, if I enlist her support or insist on her participation, my present and future will not be enhanced by the experience. She may be a resource in many other respects, but in this respect, she’s not.

And I can respect that. Give me a little credit, I’ve learned something in our 40 years together.

That being said – and understood, I think I’ll take the weekend off from such endeavors and prepare myself for next week as I consider the challenges which lie ahead.

in the progress I made this past week. I’ve nearly completed both tasks, tasks which initially seemed almost insurmountable. However, if it were not for the amazingly patient, courteous and knowl-edgeable assistance I received from the call centers associated with these sites, I’d still be stumbling and stammering (literally) into oblivion.

But as of this past Friday, I’ve nearly reached the promised land. (“I can see Russia from my house.”)

I can only imagine the satisfaction I’ll feel next Friday when I anticipate I will have completed two more of these tedious tasks and secured yet another

Four huge hurdles overcome, but still with a few more yet to go: probably applying for a reverse mortgage and possibly researching a kitchen renovation.

Wait a second. Don’t I have lung cancer? Jeez, I almost forgot.

With all this other stuff going on, the cancer compartment stayed closed. Now it’s open again. Damn, now I really have problems.

What A Week!

fun and games at great falls...

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