neighbors question ‘country inn,’ agritourism...

online at www.connectionnewspapers.com February 27-March 4, 2020

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Black History for A New Generation

A+, Page 7

Surovell Defends Vote Against Assault Weapon BanNews, Page 9

Neighbors Question ‘Country Inn,’ Agritourism Proposals

News, Page 3

Pet ConnectionPage, 6

Supervisor Pat Herrity addresses the crowd at his Springfield District Town Hall Meeting on Feb. 19, 2020. He discussed his thoughts and concerns about the County’s proposals.

2 ❖ Springfield Connection ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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

SUNDAY/MAY 17Psychic Fair. 9-5 p.m. At Arlington-Fairfax Elks

Lodge, 8421 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax.Psychic Fair for both those who are serious andfor those who are just curious. Event can be alife-changing experience or just a fun time Manyof the best psychics, mediums, healers, andreaders of all types, along with related arts andcrafts vendors from Virginia and thesurrounding areas. Note: 75% of tables offersome type of readings, 25% of tables offerrelated arts, crafts, books, oils, crystals, sage,herbs. information, jewelry, etc. There will be 44vendors, All under one roof, all in one room,indoor event, free parking. Cost: $5 in advance$10 at the door. Visit the website: https://va-psychic-fair-2020.eventbrite.com

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 Fairfax-Burke sponsorsa monthly meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of eachmonth, noon-1:30 p.m., for caregivers to learnand to share with others experiencing similarchallenges.

Before attending, contact the facilitator, EileenThompson at 703-451-8626 [email protected].

Haven of Northern Virginia provides support,compassion, information and resources to thebereaved and seriously ill. To become a Haven

volunteer, please call 703-941-7000 to requestan orientation. Volunteers must complete a 30-hour training and commit to one year of serviceanswering Haven phones (2.5 hours weekly).Next training is scheduled for fall 2017.

ONGOINGSTEM Professionals Needed. Volunteers are

needed to assist K-12 STEM teachers in northernVirginia as part of the American Association forthe Advancement of Science’s STEM VolunteerProgram, stemvolunteers.org, during the 2019-20 school year, beginning in September. Pleasecontact Don Rea at 571-551-2488 [email protected].

Docents Needed. Sundays 1-4 p.m. at the FairfaxStation Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax StationRoad in Fairfax Station. Greet museum visitorsand tell them about the exhibits, the museumand the its railroad and Civil War history. Idealfor those interested in railroads, the Civil Warand Northern Virginia history. Training andorientation provided. Other volunteeropportunities are gardening, publicity andexhibit planning. Call 703-945-7483.

Haven of Northern Virginia is committed tooffering, support, compassion, information andresources to the bereaved and seriously ill.Volunteers provide individual and group supportto those suffering from a loss. Volunteers mustparticipate in a 30 hour training. Training willbe offered in October 2018. To volunteer, callHaven at 703-941-7000.

Assistance League of Northern Virginia is anall-volunteer nonprofit organization that feeds,clothes and educates children in need.Assistance League’s philanthropic programstouch the lives of thousands of children,including those at 11 Title 1 elementary schoolsin Fairfax and Prince William counties and theCity of Alexandria. There are many volunteeropportunities for community members tocontribute to helping those in need throughWeekend Food for Kids, tutoring programs andproviding new clothing and layettes. To learnmore, email: [email protected], or visitwww.alnv.org

Bulletin Board

Springfield Connection ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

By Caleb Lester

The Connection

On Feb. 19, Supervisor PatHerrity (R-Springfield) andFairfax County Staff held acommunity meeting regard-

ing the County’s proposed Agritourism Zon-ing Ordinance Amendment, changes to therequirements for Accessory Dwelling Units(ADUs) and the addition of a “Rural Resort”use, now named “Country Inn.”

The County’s current proposal on a Coun-try Inn use is described as a special excep-tion use in certain zoning districts on 20acres or more throughout the County. Thisproposal would allow rural property own-ers to use their land as venues for weddings,breweries, or fair and festival grounds.

THE MEETING was held at the CliftonTown Hall, and saw a packed house of con-cerned community members and residentsseeking to learn more about the Countyproposals and to provide their feedback.

County staff provided a brief presentationand used most of their time taking ques-tions and feedback from attendees. Mosteveryone’s attention was focused onAgritourism and “Country Inns,” with manyvoicing their opposition.

Residents discussed several significantareas of concern. Many feared the proposedamendment, and Country Inns, would leadto an increase in development in theirneighborhoods. They also voiced concernsabout a possible influx of people, traffic,safety, noise, and the potential negativeimpacts on the environment, particularly

the Occoquan Watershed (R-C).Supervisor Herrity also addressed his con-

cerns over the need for more details andquestioned the proposed acreage require-ments for Country Inns and the use of thesepotential properties. He also echoed theenvironmental worries that residents dis-cussed.

Currently, the Code of Virginia permitsagritourism by-right when associated withan agricultural operation. Localities mayregulate agritourism activities when thereis a significant impact on the health, safety,or general welfare of the public. County

staff has proposed definitions foragritourism and use limitations to providethresholds for a predictable and consistentpath for future agritourism activities.

Throughout the discussion, County staffcited both Loudoun and Prince WilliamCounty, along with a similar proposal andventure in the Sully District. These refer-ences sparked some attendees to inquireabout more urbanized areas in the region,like Arlington County and Alexandria City.According to County staff, those jurisdic-tions are not exploring any similar propos-als.

County staff also proposed revisions toADU standards during their presentation.Currently, all ADUs require a special per-mit review by the Board of Zoning Appeals.Staff is offering a more streamlined processthat would allow administrative approvalof an ADU when located within the princi-pal dwelling. Staff is also proposing to limitthe size to 1200 square feet. Currently, anADU is only allowed if someone on the prop-erty meets certain age or disability restric-tions. However, the Board and staff are look-ing to eliminate those constraints as well.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS voiced con-cerns over increased density in their neigh-borhoods, and the lack of enforcement in acomplaint-based system. At the same time,Supervisor Herrity expressed his support ofeasing the requirements for ADUs with thecurrent age and disability restrictions whilestill opposing eliminating these restrictionsin their entirety. Wednesday night’s meet-ing shed light on the rapidly changing land-scape of Fairfax County. Over the years, theCounty has presented itself as a hub for newbusinesses and new development. It is nowsituated as an ever-urbanizing powerhouse,inviting everyone from all over the worldto live, work, and raise and family. At a timewhen rural preservation and urbanizationcollide, residential communities and theprotection of their neighborhoods are tak-ing center-stage.

A full house as community members attend Supervisor Pat Herrity’sSpringfield District Town Hall Meeting on Feb. 19, 2020.

Supervisor Pat Herrity addresses the crowd at his Springfield DistrictTown Hall Meeting on Feb. 19, 2020. He discussed his thoughts andconcerns about the County’s proposals.

Neighbors Question ‘Country Inn,’ Agritourism ProposalsResidential preserva-tion and urbanizationstandoff in the latestSpringfield DistrictTown Hall Meeting.

Supervisor Pat Herrity stays after the meeting to further discussAgritourism and the ADU proposals with concerned constituents.

Virginia state elected officials wantto make life better for dogs andcats. Several bills were intro-

duced in the General Assembly this ses-sion to benefit pets and the humans thatcare for them.

Select legislators will speak about com-panion animal bills in a post-session re-cap. On hand to discuss bills that passed

or failed will be co-chair’s of the GeneralAssembly animal caucus, Senator DaveMarsden, Del. Kaye Kory and Del. KathyTran, Chairman of the House Natural Re-sources subcommittee. Senator Marsdenalso chairs the senate’s Companion Animalsubcommittee.

Manassas Animal Control Officer MarcDaigle will recount the successful cruelty

investigation which led to closing a lo-cal puppy store.

The event, hosted by the VA Dog Army,an animal advocacy group working forlaw enforcement and legislation, is freeand open to the public. West SpringfieldGovernment Center, 6140 Rolling Road,Springfield, March 28, 2-4 p.m

—Susan Laume

Animal Bill Town Hall to Be Held in Springfield

Springfield Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or [email protected]

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Opinion

By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum

State Delegate (D-36)

In contrast to the federalgovernment’s method ofbudgeting, the budget forthe Commonwealth of Vir-

ginia is more than balanced. Thestate Constitution prohibits theborrowing of money for opera-tions, and it requires a “rainy dayfund” of reserve monies that canbe drawn upon in an economicdownturn. That is in part why the state has aperfect AAA bond rating giving it the best termswhen monies are borrowed for capital projects.

Both the House and the Senate have com-pleted work on their versions of the budgetthat was proposed by Governor Ralph Northamearlier this year. The two budgets will be rec-onciled in a conference committee that willresolve differences between the two. Totalspending for the biennium will be about $48billion in general funds raised through taxes.Individual and corporate income taxes providethree quarters of the revenue with sales taxproviding about seventeen percent and addi-tional smaller taxes making up the rest. Gen-eral funds coming from taxes make up about

36 percent of total revenue. Non-general funds that consist of feessuch as motor vehicle and gastaxes, college tuition, federalgrants and other fees make up 64percent of the budget.

Noteworthy features of theHouse and Senate budgets thatare being reconciled and are sub-ject to change before a final bud-get is adopted include a much

needed increase in rates for personal care pro-viders in Medicaid programs, an increase indevelopmental waiver disability slots by 1,135in the Governor’s budget to 1,635 in the Sen-ate version of the budget. While the increasewill help, the number of persons on the wait-ing list still number in the thousands. The Gov-ernor and the House budgeted for 630 sup-portive housing slots for persons with seriousmental illness while the Senate provided 1,630.Budget language provides for the establish-ment of a state-based exchange for health in-surance.

The budgets of both houses provided forteacher raises as did the Governor’s budget.

The amount differs in each with an expectedthree to four percent over the biennium. Theratio of counselors to students in the publicschools will be improved. The Governor pro-posed a ratio of one counselor per 250 stu-dents. The House ratio is 325 and the Senate’sis 300. Likewise, the ratio of teachers for En-glish learners will be improved. A major pointof contention among the Governor’s and theHouse and Senate budgets is that only theHouse has proposed to restore the cost to com-pete funding for Northern Virginia schools be-cause of the high cost of living in the region.The average per pupil direct aid for publicschool students range from $6,206 in theGovernor’s budget $6,297 in the House bud-get.

A major emphasis in the budget is an in-creased investment in preschool education thatwas championed by the First Lady. TheGovernor’s “Get skilled, Get a job, Give back”(G3) funding to provide tuition assistance tolow- to moderate-income students who meetcertain criteria is receiving significant funding.The Housing Trust Fund will receive a much-needed infusion of cash proposed in all thebudgets.

For information comparing the three budgets,go to www.thecommonwealthinstitute.org.

Budgeting the State’s ResourcesCommentary

We Both Deserve $15.Why Don’t Our Senators Think So?

By Nick Riviere and

Tony Hedgepeth

Like millions of Virgin-ians, we work hard. Ashome care providers,

we work every day to helpolder adults and people withdisabilities live independentlyat home and in the community.By keeping people out of costlynursing homes and institutions,we save taxpayers money and deliver quality care.

We do the same work but in different parts of Vir-ginia – Fairfax County and City of Richmond – andhave different backgrounds. One of us is a 21-year-old assisting young adults with developmental dis-abilities and one of us is a 61-year-old Army veteranhelping his fellow vets who suffer from PTSD.

However, we both love what we do. It’s a blessingto be able to help others live with dignity.

We both deserve to make at least $15 per hourand live with dignity ourselves.

Unfortunately, our Virginia state Senators seem todisagree.

Earlier this month, the Virginia House of Delegatespassed a bill to raise the minimum wage to $15 forall workers by 2025. They recognized that workingfamilies are falling behind no matter how hard wework, and that we need to build an economy thatworks for everyone.

The Senate, however, passed a bill which wouldcreate different minimum wages in different regions,even for workers who do the exact same jobs like us.

Their bill also forces workers towait even longer to get a raise.

If the Senate bill becomeslaw, people working in Fairfaxwon’t make $15 until 2027,while those in Richmond won’tmake $15 until 2032. Our fel-low homecare providers andothers working in HamptonRoads won’t make $15 until2034.

Delaying the minimum wageincrease for 14 years, and paying different wages forthe same work, is not only unfair; it’s unacceptable.

Every person who works hard and plays by the rulesin Virginia deserves equal respect. We deserve livingwages, paid sick days, affordable health care, a secureretirement, and the right to join together in a union.

While the cost of living varies in different parts ofVirginia, we all feel the same pain when we struggleto pay rent, buy groceries and pay utilities. Housingcosts are skyrocketing in both Richmond and North-ern Virginia. Health care costs, food costs and trans-portation costs are all increasing. We need a state-wide $15 minimum wage to ensure that no one getsleft behind.

To our Senators, we ask: why should a home careworker in Richmond or Roanoke make less than ahome care worker in Fairfax when we make the samecontribution to Virginia’s families?

We elected Democratic majorities to the House andSenate because they promised to deliver a brighterfuture for working Virginians. It’s time that our Sena-tors delivered on that promise.

Riviere Hedgepeth

Targeted byScammersTo the Editor:

Recently, I was stuck at homeand unable to go to work for a fewweeks due to health reasons.While to some people that mayseem like a welcome respite fromthe drudgery of commuting to a 9to 5 job, let me tell you it was not.

While Week 1 wasn’t too bad,one can only watch so many epi-sodes of Law and Order: SpecialVictim’s Unit! What I would liketo share with everyone is just howmany calls we all get on our houselandlines each day. When we’re atwork and don’t answer, most call-ers don’t leave messages so wehave no idea of the volume ofthese calls each day.

I can honestly say that 99 per-cent of these calls are cold callingsales people or scammers! Yes,there is the occasional call fromGiant Food that “a prescriptionfrom someone in your householdis due for pickup,” but for the mostpart they are from strangers try-ing to separate you from yourhard-earned cash.

Social Security scams, lowercredit card interest rates, policebenevolent association donations,hail damage inspection teams that

Letters

See Letters, Page 10

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Springfield


COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP

bbTo Advertise Your

Community of Worship,Call 703-778-9418

Worship Gathering – Sunday 8:45 & 11 AMSunday School 10:10 AM

Sun. Evening – Realtime Worship & Youth 6 PMFamily Night – Wednesday 7:15 PM

Home Life Groups, College/Young AdultMinistries, and Living Free Support Groups

Visit our Website: jccag.org

4650 Shirley Gate Road, FairfaxBill Frasnelli, PASTOR 703-383-1170

“Loving People to Life”

Pet Connection

Christmas GuestsRon Edwards of Springfield writes: “Gunner (left) andAmmo, our Swedish Vallhund grandpups, visited us intheir Christmas PJs. Posed under the tree before open-ing their presents.”


Pet Connection

A crisp morning, blue skies,playful paws, an empty break-fast bowl, a leash ready by thedoor, and wagging tails can onlymean one thing: Time to go fora dog walk. Seven years later, Iam still dog walking and enjoy-ing my career switch even morewith every passing day. Sup-ported by a passionate team,who are client focused, whoenjoy pets, who appreciate theoutdoors, we have become theIrish Rover Family with all ourfurry friends. We are not justwalking for the sake of walking.Instead, your pet is taking in thewonders of their natural envi-ronment. Your pet feels at homewith us.

Last year, Irish Rover DogWalkers and Pet Sitters contin-ued to flourish and expand ourteam. Our approach has alwaysbeen client and pet focused.Our philosophy is to under-stand the fundamental needs ofthe pet owners first before weeven get to know their pet. Thisallows us to meet the expecta-tion of the owner and to pro-vide service tailored to theirdog. We also have the expertiseto care for other pets includingcats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds,fish, and bearded dragons.

One might ask, how difficultcan it be to walk a dog? A dogwalk is not just a dog walk. Thewalk should be pleasurable andstimulate the dog. When a dogis out in the great outdoors,they are using all of their senses

to explore their environment.Our goal is to make this experi-ence as fun and exciting as pos-sible. Irish Rover prides itselfwith great walks as we have avariety of trails to choose from.Not only are we walking dogs,but we are admiring nature allaround us. Whether it’s an earlymorning walk, we are listeningto a chorus of birds, or if it is alate night, we might be enjoy-ing the sounds of the frogs orthe bugs. The pets always perkup when they see a heron wad-ing in the pond, or a family ofdeer grazing, or a sly fox ram-bling around. Last year, we hadthe good fortune of seeing abrown owl who was secretlytrying to disguise himself as afallen log. That is the beauty ofa walk, there is always some-thing new to see that stimulatesyour pet’s interest. The dogsalso get to interact with theirfriendly neighborhood furryfriends along the way.

Last year, the feeling of thatextended family really cameinto play when we had our firsthuman client pass away. For thefirst time in Irish Rover history,I came to inherit a dog. This wastruly an honor that someonewould think so highly of my petcare that they would leave metheir dog..

— Allison Waldron

The writer is the owner of IrishRover Dog Walkers and Pet Sit-ters LLC in Fairfax Station.

Reflections of the Irish RoverDog Walker

Photo contributed

Allison Waldron: We have become the Irish RoverFamily with all our furry friends.

A Perfect FriendCounty Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay:

“I have an adopted retired racing Greyhound namedPascal. Despite their reputation as fast dogs that canrun 45 mph, they also live up to their nickname as the‘40 mph couch potato.’ Greyhounds are loving, calm,and relaxed; a perfect friend for me and my kids Aidanand Leann. Adopting older pets from places like theFairfax County Animal Shelter is great too.”

Pascal with Leann. Pascal with Aidan.

They were,l i t e ra l l y,all about“ L O V E ”

when “Vizsla Go”(VGO) members metto celebrate the Feb.14 holiday. The newpermanent home ofthe “LOVE” sign at theWorkhouse Arts Cen-ter in Lorton provideda perfect backdrop forheart-themed pictures.

Valentine’s Day orVizslantine’s Day, asit’s referred to in thegroup, is a naturaltime to celebrate thisaffectionate, beautiful,and energetic red dog.A pointing breed,originating in Hungary, theVizsla has risen in popularityin the United States to 42ndin the national registry.Known for its versatility in dogsports, and its increasing usein bomb and drug detection,the dogs also are happy to befamily dogs, as long as signifi-cant daily exercise is provided.

VGO is a small group of ac-tive Vizsla enthusiasts whomeet regularly to exercise,socialize, and train their be-loved animals. Several VGOmembers serve the commu-nity as therapy dog teams andcan be found at the libraryreading with children, at theairport, schools, colleges, andretirement communities….after a long run.

—Susan Laume

Vizsla Go members Evelyn Novins, Michael Crossin, BarbaraAutry, Alina Madalina, Ron Green, and Cynthia Fox posewith “Love”

Vizsla ‘Love’ Letters

Photos by Susan Laume

Vizsla Go members Tia, Haley, Stella, Ryker, Lucy, and Skye makesome “Love” letters.


By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

Black History Month was created to devote oneperiod during the year to highlight the con-tributions of African Americans. It represents

an opportunity for all, not just African Americans tolearn about and appreciate the numerous contribu-tions of Black Americans. That conversation, how-ever, is changing at some localschools.

“It’s part of Madeira’s curricu-lum … not specifically for BlackHistory Month,” said KarenJoostema, Director of Communi-cations at Madeira. “[Students]taking Modernism will be re-searching a Harlem Renaissancepoet of their choice, analyzingtheir lives and work. Juniors havealso read Frederick Douglass’ Nar-rative and Toni Morrison’s Song ofSolomon to interrogate the prom-ise, failures, and continuing workin the U.S. on race and civil rights.”

The school’s curriculum, saysJoostema incorporates studies ofthe contributions of all cultures in-cluding those of African Ameri-cans, seamlessly throughout theyear. “AP (Advanced Placement)seniors will be finishing up Ralph Ellison’s InvisibleMan, working to understand how Ellison viewed thestruggles of race and class in the middle of the twen-tieth century and how he viewed himself as part of

the American literary tradition, as voiced in his re-sponse to Irving Howe, “The World and the Jug,”she said. “Sophomores have just finished reading ashort story from the Kenyan writer Ngig) wa Thiong’oalong with a play from the white South African play-wright Athol Fugard.

Ninth graders read Maya Angelou’s I Know Whythe Caged Bird Sings to explore how identity, one’ssense of self, are shaped by race, class, gender, andgeography.

At The Heights School, African American historyis part of year round study, said Linda F. Maher. “Westudy seminal figures in American History, many ofwhom are African American, so it’s just a given thatit’s just a part of studying history throughout theyear,” she said. “Studying the Civil Rights movement,

for example, is integral to our studyof Civics.

Still, February offers an opportu-nity to focus on African Americanshistory outside of tragic events.KiKi Davis, Director of InstitutionalEquity and Diversity at St.Stephen’s & St. Agnes School, saysthat African Americans have con-tributed to every aspect of Ameri-can culture, her school’s celebra-tions include recognition for thoseinfluences. “[We’re] celebrating thecontributions of African Americansto the arts literature, music, the-ater,” she said. “Students will learnabout the contributions and theeffects of Americans of African de-scent in other segments of societyincluding, academia, medicine andscience.”

“There will be several lunch fo-rums held for our students to discuss issues directlyrelating to the African American experience,” saidDavis. “Many teachers will incorporate historical factsand references in their curriculum.”

While February is designed to raise awareness of the societal contributions of Afri-can Americans, in some schools , it’s taught all year long.

Black History for a New GenerationLessons on thecontributions of AfricanAmericans not limited toFebruary.

“We study seminalfigures in AmericanHistory, many ofwhom are AfricanAmerican, so it’sjust a given thatwe’re studying itthroughout theyear.”

—Linda F. Maher, TheHeights School

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oach Leia (Le) Towe,MBA came to Lee HighSchool in 2017, with

the goal to try to change themindset and environment of itsathletic basketball team. Shewanted to not only instill beliefin the athletes, but to also cre-ate a stronger communityaround the school, to supportthese students on and off thecourt.

Her first two seasons weretrying-as basketball was notfirst nature for many of theplayers. She spent more timebuilding confidence and con-nection, than skills and compe-tition. Needless to say in twoseasons the team only won 4games out of 36.

This year has been a hugeturn around. All the playershave bought into the processand grown. Almost immedi-ately after having her baby inOctober of 2019, Coach Lecame into her third season on

fire. The girls had spent a lot oftime, since late August condi-tioning and preparing for thebasketball days to come. Firstgame, Lee HS Varsity girl tookoff with a victory— but then thefollowing two weeks, spiraledback to old ways. Through hardwork, discipline, and focus;they were able to regroup andcreate a winning record.

As of February, Lee HS LadyLancers, have a 12-10 winningrecord.

Their record hasn’t been thisgood at the the school, since2008. Coach Le, her staff, andthe Lady Lancers are workinghard to make history for theschool. The season isn’t doneyet— but no matter what hap-pens from this point on - theyhave done an excellent job inchanging the culture and gain-ing the respect from otherschools in the area all whilemaintaining high grade pointaverages.

#15 Vanessa Gardiner: As of February, Lee HSLady Lancers, have a 12-10 winning record.

Lady Lancers Earn Respect,Enjoy Winning Season

Through hard work, discipline, and focus Lee Highgirls basketball team was able to regroup and createa winning record.

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Calendar

Submit entertainment announcements atwww.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/.The deadline is noon on Friday.Photos/artwork encouraged.

ONGOINGSt. James Intramural High School

Basketball League. Now thru March 10. Atthe St. James Sports, Wellness andEntertainment Complex, 6805 Industrial Road,Springfield. The St. James invites you toparticipate in its Middle School BasketballLeague for Boys & Girls (8th to 12th grade),Now thru March 10, in the new 33,000 squarefoot Basketball Courthouse on four high schoolregulation sized courts. The TSJ IntramuralHigh School Basketball League registration fee is$250 per player and $600 per team. All gamesare officiated and statistics provided. The TSJIntramural High School Basketball league alsoincludes a Playoff round where top teams in theleague will meet. Visit https://www.thestjames.com/sports/basketball/sessions/8/courses/tsj-basketball-winter-team orcontact Alpha or Pele with any questions at 703-239-6841.

Monday Exercise Classes. Now thru March 30.9:30-10:30 a.m. At Lord of Life LutheranChurch, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax.Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke offersexercise classes for older adults designed tobuild strength and improve balance andflexibility. All levels of ability are welcome.Call the SCFB office, 703-426-2824, for classinformation.

Wednesday Exercise Classes. Now thru May27. 9-10 a.m. At The Lutheran Church of theAbiding Presence, 6304 Lee Chapel Road, Burke.Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke offersexercise classes for older adults designed tobuild strength and improve balance andflexibility. All levels of ability are welcome.Call the SCFB office, 703-426-2824, for classinformation. (20 weeks @$2.50/class = $50)

Friday Exercise Classes. Now thru April 3.9:30-10:30 a.m. At Lord of Life LutheranChurch, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax.Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke offersexercise classes for older adults designed tobuild strength and improve balance andflexibility. All levels of ability are welcome.Call the SCFB office, 703-426-2824, for classinformation. (8 weeks, $20).

The Color Green. Now thru March 29. AtTorpedo Factory Artists at Mosaic, 105 DistrictAve., Fairfax. In celebration of an early springand St. Patrick’s Day, Torpedo Factory artists aretackling one of nature’s most ubiquitous colors,green. In its newest exhibit simply titled, Green,the gallery is presenting a selection of originalpaintings, photographs, jewelry, scarves,ceramics and more, that reflect its variousartists’ interpretations of the color. TorpedoFactory artists are chosen through a rigorousjurying process and enjoy a high degree ofacclaim, both locally and nationally. Savvyshoppers know Torpedo Factory Artists @Mosaic as a place not only to enjoy fine art butalso as a great place to purchase art ataffordable prices.

SATURDAY/FEB. 29Mason Jazz Festival. Begins 10 a.m. At Harris

Theatre, GMU, 4471 Aquia Creek Lane, Fairfax.The Mason Jazz Festival is an invitational eventopen to middle school, high school, collegiateand community Jazz ensembles. Sponsored byMason Jazz Studies, National Jazz Workshopand the Jazz Education Network, participatinggroups will perform a 20-30 minute set,followed by a clinic by Mason Jazz faculty andspecial guests. The participation fee is $200 perensemble and spots are limited. Closing festivalperformance will be the United States Air Force,Airmen of Note at 7 p.m. All performances arefree and open to the public – no tickets orregistration required. This festival will includethree “Outstanding Soloist” (cash prizes) andfour “Best Section” awards as well asscholarships to the National Jazz Workshopsummer camp at Mason.

NPR’s From the Top. 8 p.m. At GMU Center forthe Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Dr, Fairfax. Attend alive recording of this popular NPR radio show,featuring the acclaimed piano duo Anderson andRoe as guest hosts. From the Top celebrates thestories, talents, and character of America’s bestpre-collegiate classically-trained musicians. Itbegan as an experiment in 2000 and quicklygrew to become the most popular weekly one-hour classical music program on public radio. It

are available to borrow from the instructor atclass. The program cost is $22 per person. Call703-323-6600.

Russian National Ballet: ”Romeo & Juliet” /“Carmen.” 8 p.m. At GMU Center for the Arts,4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax. With lushmusic and exquisite grace, the Russian NationalBallet returns to the Center to perform two ofthe world’s greatest ballets: Romeo and Juliettogether with Carmen. Both ballets express thetorments of love. Young love, bursting withexhilarating passion, is at the heart of Romeoand Juliet, with the perilous fate for the star-crossed lovers. While with Carmen, it isunrequited love, burning with obsession that isat the center of this beautifully tragic ballet.Under the direction of the legendary Bolshoiprincipal dancer Elena Radchenko, the companybrings both timeless classics to life, articulatingthe nuances of love through expressive dance,elegant costumes, and lavish sets. Cost is $56,$48, $34. Visit the website: www.cfa.gmu.edu

Stargazing and S’Mores. 8:30-10 p.m. At BurkeLake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station,Burke. Set your sights on the stars and warm upinside and out with s’mores by a roaringcampfire at Burke Lake Park. Participants age 3to adult can take a stroll along the lakeshorewhile learning about the constellations, theirstories and other night-sky features. Anastronomical naturalist will identify stars for youand have some telescopes available for you touse. Then, put the finishing touches on yourevening out with a campfire and s’mores.S’mores ingredients will be provided; hot dogsare welcome. Cost is $12 per person. Childrenmust be accompanied by a registered adult. Call703-323-6600 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake.

SUNDAY/MARCH 8A Day at Fairfax Station Railroad Museum.

1-4 p.m. At Fairfax Station Railroad Museum,11200 Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station.Take the History Challenge or enjoy self-guidedtours with our Uniguide Audio Tour. Volunteerswill conduct 60-minute walking tours of themuseum and museum neighborhood to givevisitors an idea of what life was like in a smallrailroad community. Tours begin

at 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. No reservations needed.Museum members and ages 4 and under, free;ages 5-12, $3; ages 13 and older, $5; seniors 65and older and active and retired military, $4.Visit the website: www.fairfax-station.org.

SATURDAY/MARCH 14Beethoven at 250 “Soulmates.” 8 p.m. At

GMU Center for the Arts, Concert Hall, 4373Mason Pond Dr, Fairfax. Featuring the FairfaxSymphony Orchestra with ChristopherZimmerman, conductor, and Philippe Bianconiof France on piano. The program featuresBrahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 and Beethoven“Symphony of Symphonies.” Hear the storiesbehind the music with music directorChristopher Zimmerman and special guestsbefore the concert at 7 p.m. Visit the website:http://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/fairfax-symphony-orchestra-beethoven-at-250-soulmates

SATURDAY/APRIL 18Model Classic 2020. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At Fairfax

High School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax. TheNorthern Virginia Modelers Chapter,International Plastic Modelers Society presentsan educational and fun event for the entirefamily. Cost is $8/adults; $10/contestant $10/family; free under 18. Visit the web site:www.novaipms.org

SATURDAY/MARCH 21Fantasy and Fun. 1 p.m. At Annandale United

Methodist Church, 6935 Columbia Pike,Annandale. Featuring The Great Zucchini andthe Da Capo and Lyric Youth Choruses of theFairfax Choral Society. Tickets are $15/adults;$5/students; children 13 and under free.

SUNDAY/MARCH 22Back to the Beatles and Beyond. 4 p.m. At

W.T. Woodson High School, 9525 Main Street,Fairfax. Featuring the Vocal Arts Ensemble ofthe Fairfax Choral Society with Michael Ehrlich,Director. Tickets are $25/adults; $10/students.Kids 13 and under free.

delights both seasoned classical listeners andnew classical music fans alike. With a mission toempower young musicians and inspire musiclovers, From the Top showcases theextraordinary gifts and stories of the youngmusicians. Guest hosts Greg Anderson (a Fromthe Top alum himself) and Elizabeth Joy Roewill emcee the program and perform alongsidethe young artists. Following the performances,the featured young artists discuss balancingtheir musical passions and dedication to theircraft around school, hobbies and full familyschedules. Visit the website: https://cfa.gmu.edu/

FEB. 29 AND MARCH 1Monty’s Trains Special LEGO Model Train

Show. 12-4 p.m. At Fairfax Station RailroadMuseum, 11200 Fairfax Station Road, FairfaxStation. Local modeling enthusiast, MontySmith, will share his LEGO (R) model trainlayouts in a special two day event. Admission:Museum members and ages 4 and under, free;ages 5-12, $3; ages 13 and older, $5; seniors 65and older and military, both retired and active,$4. Visit the website www.fairfax-station.org, orcall 703-425-9225.

SUNDAY/MARCH 1Hot Peas ‘n Butter. 1 p.m. At GMU Center for

the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax.Praised by the Los Angeles Times for their “hotand mellow multicultural groove,Ó Hot Peas ‘n/Butter will have you and your whole family ontheir feet dancing with their infectiously funglobal music celebration. This Parent ChoiceAward-winning, family music ensemble blendstogether traditional Latin music, Afro-Caribbeanrhythms, jazz, bluegrass, country, and rock tocreate a “rainbow of color and sound.Ó (NY 1TV). Singing in English, Spanish, French, Koreanand Hebrew, Hot Peas ‘n Butter aims to showmulti-cultural interconnectedness. Theirrepertoire of songs like Number 1” and theirsignature Latin beat tracks “Somos Familia,”“Amistad,” “Que Llueva,” and “Round theWorld” enjoy radio play nationwide. Cost is $15for adults; $10 for children. Visit the website:www.cfa.gmu.edu

MARCH 4 TO APRIL 5Lines and Pauses. At Arches Gallery, Workhouse

Arts Center, Lorton. “Lines and Pauses” is theculmination of the works of Marc Pachoncaptured over the last years with local andinternational dancers and models, tied togetherwith a common thread of fabric moving fromone shot to the next, interspersed with hisfreeze-frame captures of moments in time thatdisappeared as soon as the photograph wastaken. Free. Visit the website:www.byondhelp.com

SATURDAY/MARCH 7Monopoly Tournament. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. At

Moose Lodge Family Center in Lorton. Nearly100 players, cheered on by family, friends, andvolunteers will play three timed rounds ofMonopoly and compete for cash and prizes - allto raise money for the Lorton Community ActionCenter (LCAC). Sponsorship Levels: Round 1 -$300 per table; Round 2 - $600 per table (incl. 2free tickets to the event); Round 3 - $1,000(incl. 4 free tickets to the event). To register /sponsor / pay / participate or play, go to:https://lortonaction.org/monopoly-tournament/

Catholic Schools Job Fair. 9-11 a.m. At Paul VIHigh School, 10675 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax. TheCatholic Diocese of Arlington’s Office of CatholicSchools will hold a job fair seeking to fill up to150 teaching positions. Positions are open inpreschools, elementary, middle and highschools. The Diocese has 37 parish (K-8)schools, four diocesan high schools, fourindependent Catholic schools and five free-standing (not connected with a parish school)pre-schools, serving more than 17,000 students.For more information, contact Mallory Sigmonat 703-841-2519 or visit https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/catholic-schools/careers/.

Teen Job Fair. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. At WoodsonHigh School 9525 Main Street, Fairfax. Focusedon students and younger job seekers looking fora variety of employment opportunities; full time,after-school, seasonal positions, internshipopportunities, and volunteer positions.Sponsored by Supervisor Pat Herrity, SupervisorDalia Palchik, Supervisor James Walkinshaw,Woodson High School, Central Fairfax Chamberof Commerce.

Wilderness Walk. 1-3 p.m. At Burke Lake Park,7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. Take a walk onthe wild side with the “Burke Lake WildernessWalk” for participants age 12 to adult. Explorethe wilderness area of the park as you visit twoold home sites and two vernal pools with anaturalist. Learn about the park’s natural andcultural history. Moderate walking is required.The cost is $15 per person. Call 703-323-6600.

Teen Job Fair. 2 to 4 p.m. At South County HighSchool, 8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton. Theseevents focused on students and younger jobseekers looking for a variety of employmentopportunities; full time, after-school, seasonalpositions, internship opportunities, andvolunteer positions. Sponsored by SupervisorPat Herrity, Supervisor Dan Storck, SouthFairfax Chamber of Commerce, South CountyFederation, and South County High School.

Geocaching Workshop 2 to 4 p.m. At BurkeLake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. Forages 8 to adult. Learn how to use hand-heldGlobal Positioning System (GPS) units to locatehidden caches within Burke Lake Park. Followlatitude and longitude coordinates to find ahidden object, container or unique geologicalfeature. Bring your own GPS; a limited number

Lesson ZeroLesson Zero will appear at Fat Tuesdays in Fairfax on Friday, Feb. 28.

FRIDAY/FEB. 28Lesson Zero. 9 p.m. At Fat Tuesdays, 10673 Braddock Rd., Fairfax. Cover is $5, plenty of parking, good

food, good drinks, nice folks, and way cool music from Oasis recording artist LESSON ZERO. For moreinformation see: www.youtube.com/lessonzero and www.reverbnation.com/lessonzero

See Calendar, Page 11


News

By Susan Laume

The Connection

Those following Virginia’sgun violence preventionmeasures were surprised

when Senator Scott Surovell (D-36th) joined three other Demo-crats - Senators Petersen (D-34),Edwards (D-21) and Deeds (D-25)- in a committee vote against ad-vancing an assault weapons banon Feb. 17. Gun control and gunadvocates were among those inthe audience to ask about gunmeasures and other issues at ajoint Feb. 23 town hall meetingwith Senator George Barker (D-39), Del. Kathy Tran (D-42) andDel. Mark Sickles (D-43) in LortonLaurel Crest Elementary School.

When asked about his vote, Surovell said he “doesnot personally support the ownership of weapons ofwar not needed for hunting or self-protection.” How-ever, he felt Senate members were not prepared tovote for the ban. In fact, there was no “companionbill” in the Senate. He said, “From my prospective,we had a bill that wasn’t going to pass. I had somequestions about the bill. It needed some work but .…. even if it had got ….on the floor it would havedied there and would have continued a discussiongoing nowhere and wasted a lot of time.” Surovellexplained he felt the time was better spent on the 20to 25 other big policy issues which remain to be dis-cussed in the two weeks remaining in the session.He referred those attending to his blog and to ar-ticles that will appear in the “Washington Post”, “Con-nection” and other local newspapers this week forfurther explanation. Senator Petersen has also de-fended his vote in Fox News media.

THE FULL VIRGINIA HOUSE passed an assaultweapon bill on Feb. 11, by a narrow margin, 51 - 48,along party lines. That action moved the bill, spon-

sored by Del. Mark Levine (D-45)to “cross over” to the Senate,where it was assigned to the Judi-ciary Committee. The Committeevoted to carry over the bill,HB961, until the 2021 session, bya vote of 10-5. Those committeemembers voting in support of thebill were Senators Saslaw, Lucas,McClellan, Boysko, and Morrisey.

Surovell reminded constituentsin his blog that much progress wasmade in gun control during the2020 session. “We have made sig-nificant progress on firearm vio-lence prevention. We have passed(1) universal background checks,(2) reinstating Virginia’s “one-gun-a-month” purchase limit, (3)emergency risk protection or “red

flag” orders, (4) authorizing local governments toregulate guns in public buildings, parks and events,(5) allowing firearm forfeiture during protective or-der proceedings, (6) banned bump stocks, and (7)increased penalties for child access. Legislation tobroaden the crimes that surrender firearms rights tomisdemeanor stalking and sexual battery is pendingalong with my voluntary Do Not Sell List legislation.Passage of these bills is unprecedented and historic. “

ASSAULT STYLE WEAPONS gained infamy as theweapon of choice in several mass shooting episodes,spurring gun control activists to seek bans or otherlimits on their sale and use. Levine’s assault weaponban was included in the package of bills planned forintroduction in Governor Northam’s special generalassembly session on gun control in July 2019 fol-lowing the mass shooting in Virginia Beach. TheSpecial Session was quickly shut down by the GOPcontrolled legislature less than two hours after itconvened, hearing no gun bills. With the change inparty control this session, gun measures are amongseveral issues that have found better reception fromlawmakers.

State Senator Scott Surovell at Town Hall in Lorton.

Surovell Defends VoteAgainst Assault Weapon Ban

Delegates Sickles and Tran,Senators Barker andSurovell conduct town hallmeeting in Lorton.

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By Mike Salmon

The Connection

Stalking and taking unau-thorized photos at ahouse in Newington For-

est started as an acquaintanceat the workplace, and thanks tothe technology of the doorbellcameras, the man who contin-ued stalking several locationsaround Newington Forest wasarrested. The suspect, Christo-pher Kiernan Murphy, was ar-rested in Arlington and chargedwith three charges of peepingand one charge of stalking. Hewas booked and released on hisown cognizance. The arrestcame in Arlington because thatwas where Murphy worked.

Natalie Fleming, theNewington resident who wasthe victim in this case, had afeeling something was going onand decided to check her door-bell camera. After seeing thefootage of the suspect gettingout of his car, approaching thedoor, and taking picturesthrough the transom windows,she warned her neighbors, anda few neighbors reported see-ing him. She’s still looking forhelp from the surrounding com-munity. “I want people to lookat their ring footage and see ifthey see him,” said Fleming.

The Newington Foresthomeowners association had

gotten calls about the indi-vidual, “but they never calledpolice nor warned residents,”said Fleming on the NextdoorNeighbor chat site. This inci-dent has “jeopardized my feel-ing of safety and security in myown home,” she said.

The doorbell cameras arequickly becoming a tool for lawenforcement. “Any type of videofootage can be useful evi-dence,” said Lt. Erica Webb ofthe Fairfax County Police De-partment. Webb would notcomment on Fleming’s casebecause it is still under investi-gation, and will go before ajudge on April 1.

Another Set of EyesA “Ring,” doorbell camera is

about $100 and can be foundin hardware stores and online.It was invented by JamieSiminoff, it said on the Ringwebsite, and he started tinker-ing around when he came upwith the idea and shared it withhis wife. “If not for my wife, theRing™ Video Doorbell wouldnot exist,” he said on theirwebsite. “One night I shared myidea for reinventing the door-bell. She loved it! Not just forthe obvious convenience but forthe security of now being ableto safely answer the door fromanywhere.” It was compared tocaller ID for the front door. “OurMission: To Reduce Crime inNeighborhoods,” Ring claims.

“Ring” is not the only brandout there. Other brands includeVivent, ADT, Amcrest, andRemo who also make doorbellcameras. There is an app forcamera-doorbell so it’s possiblefor property owners to knowwho is knocking at their dooreven when they are away.

The doorbell camera picture shows the suspecttaking a picture through the door transom window.

South County StalkerCaught on Doorbell CameraTechnologyaround theNewingtonneighborhoodis valuable inthis case.

He’s ap-proaching thedoor with the

camera inhand.

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era


Opinion

By Rohan Mani

Growing up in a world in which scientistspredict we only have 12 years to limitclimate change catastrophe is understandably unnerving for an 18-year old.

And the most worrisome concern is that we are do-ing almost nothing about what is looming over thehorizon.

For decades, our planet has experienced consis-tent increases in temperature, changing rainfall pat-terns, increasing frequency of floods, droughts, melt-ing of glaciers and more. While cutting back green-house gas emissions responsible for global warmingis the only way forward, limited progress has beenmade on this front. Coal and oil continue to domi-nate as major energy sources despite the availabil-ity of relatively cheap and abundant solar and windenergy. What then are realistic and sustainable so-lutions that we should pursue in order to leave athriving planet for our children and grandchildren?º

According to the Fourth National Assessment Re-port, the impacts of global climate change are al-ready being felt in the United States and are pro-jected to intensify in the future. But the severity offuture impacts will depend largely on actions takento reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adapt tothe changes that will occur. This report draws a di-rect connection between the warming atmosphereand the resulting changes that affect Americans’lives, communities, and livelihoods, now and in thefuture. Multiple studies have now projected that theclimate of our region will turn more southern over

the coming decades. The unusually warm winter ofthis year may not be an exception but a norm forcoming years. That means, less need for jackets,gloves, hats, scarves etc.

Many communities are attempting to answer thisquestion in different ways. And it’s been fascinatingto see how some are gearing up to cope with imme-diate problems through advocacy and the support oflocal governments. It’s obvious that communities needto adapt to a changing climate irrespective of whathappens globally to reduce greenhouse gases.

There is, however, a ray of hope. The Virginia law-makers passed an unprecedented climate legislationlast week that will significantly alter use of cleanenergy in our power generation. The measure, calledthe Clean Economy Act, lays out a plan to get Vir-ginia to 100 percent renewable generation by 2050.The legislation will significantly alter our generationenergy capacity with solar and offshore wind takingthe lead. That will not only reduce our dependenceon fossil fuel-based energy generation but will putVirginia among the top US states in terms of dealingwith climate change.

Climate change has the potential to significantlytransform every aspect of our lives, ranging fromwhere we live to what we eat and the stories we tell.It is an existential crisis for our generation and gen-erations to come. I believe this is the time to act nowto save the planet and it begins at our doorstep. Wecan do our own bit by driving less, switching tocleaner energy sources, using energy efficient appli-ances and reducing usage of water. As activist GretaThunberg put it aptly, “the climate crisis has alreadybeen solved. We already have the facts and solutions.All we have to do is to wake up and change.”

Rohan Mani is a Senior and a student journalist atMcLean Highlander.

How Virginia is takingthe high road.

Climate Change at Our Doorstep

are in my neighborhood andcountless free vacations I’ve wonwhere I only have to sit through ashort two hour presentation, arejust some of the calls I get everyday!

Boredom forced me to pick upthe phone and actually speak withthese people. Civic duty caused meto engage in as long a conversa-tion as I could so they would haveless time to rip off my neighbors.They target the young and the old.Their metrics must show they suc-ceed enough to make it profitable.And our number is registered withthe “Do Not Call” list! Somethingmust be done.

Bill ByrneOak Hill

Making Virginiaa Climate LeaderTo the Editor:

We don’t have time to waste inthe face of the climate crisis. A re-cent climate report from the Na-

tional Audubon Society revealedthat two-thirds of North Americanbird species are vulnerable to ex-tinction from climate change, in-cluding nearly 70 species found inVirginia.

From the coasts of the Chesa-peake Bay to the forests of the BlueRidge Mountains, birds like theField Sparrow and Cerulean War-bler may lose nearly all of theirseasonal habitat range. We needpractical, ambitious climate solu-tions to protect our state’s birds.

The Virginia Clean Economy Act(HB 1526 / SB 851) can help byleading our state on a path to

From Page 4

Letters to the Editor

achieve a 100 percent carbon-freeeconomy that will help our birds,our environment, and our commu-nities thrive.

This bill is not the only step Vir-ginia should take to address cli-mate change—but it’s a great firststep. I urge Senator Barker and theGeneral Assembly to make cuttingcarbon emissions a top priority. Wemust act now to make Virginia aclimate leader and prevent an-other year of inaction.

Nikka De MesaNational Audubon Society

Springfield

WriteThe Connection welcomes views on any public issue.

The deadline for all material is noon Friday. Letters must be signed.Include home address and home and business numbers. Letters are

routinely edited for libel, grammar, good taste and factual errors. Send to:

Letters to the EditorThe Connection1606 King St.

Alexandria VA 22314Call: 703-917-6444.

By e-mail: [email protected]


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

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

It began years ago when technology enabled many public bathrooms to change to hands-free. Other than the obvious hands-on responsibilities, many of the other elements no longer required any touching. Be it the paper-towel dispenser, the hand dryer, the hot and cold/on and off functions in the

functions. All providing a convenience never before possible. Other than an automatic entry/exit function for the bathroom door, and one as well on the inside for the stalls themselves, using many public bathrooms has become much less involved, shall we say, than ever before. And it has not stopped there. It has gone public in a very big way.

Thanks to EZ-Pass, tolls or rather interacting with them by having to hand money over to a “toll collector,” (or even to stop and toss money into a basket) has nearly been eliminated. Due to a device (transponder) attached to my licence plate, as me and my car approach the toll booth, I simply go about my normal driving business with nary a worry in the world. I steer into the dedicated EZ-Pass lane at a bit less than the posted speed, and ding!, as I drive through the toll booth, the toll is paid. No fuss, no muss, no window roll-down and no scrambling for change or digging for dollars. What’s done is done so long as the yellow light illuminates and “paid” appears. (Although if what’s done isn’t done, you’ll soon receive a paper bill in

Metro, our local public conveyor, also provides a hands-free or very nearly hands-free experience. If you have a plastic “Metro card” linked into their system, all you need do as you enter the turnstyle is tap your card and go. No more standing in line at the “Fare”/”Add Fare” kiosks to load your card with money to start or end your journey. As with your EZ-Pass, once you sign up and link your Metro card to a credit/debit card, you are “In Like Flint,” as some of us from a certain generation might say. Henceforth, your card is automatically

trip and any subsequent trips to make sense.Now imagine if I had a “smart phone.” How

many more functions/people-free interactions might I enjoy with a tap, a scan or a wave? Unfor-tunately, I have what my wife, Dina calls a “stupid

As such, I am cut off from an evolving world. A world in which I’ll likely not have to interact with anybody or reach into my pocket for anything resembling money. All I’ll have to reach for is my “smart phone.” I’ve seen its functionality at the air-port in lieu of a paper ticket, on Amtrak, at concert venues and of course sports venues. It seems to help speed up the entry process.

phone-holding man standing. But neither do I want to get into a life-accident while negotiating the learning curve. At the moment, the road ahead seems full of twists and turns with more curves than I can possibly imagine. How do I negoti-ate something I can’t see? Moreover, how do I negotiate the road less traveled, by me? Where will I draw the experience necessary to acclimate to these ever-changing signposts? I mean, the words may be familiar, but some of the context may be off putting and counterintuitive, to me.

I’m not a complete Bozo. I have partially inte-grated into this new world. I have had insurance and car payments automatically debited from my bank account for years. I have some over-the-counter medicines, supplements and a variety of cat-related care and feeding products automatical-ly delivered to my home. However, sometimes I feel like a pinball (and I’m no wizard) without the bells and whistles banging around trying to stay on top of what product is debit/paid and when. Now that’s a service I could use: an automated weekly reminder of what’s happening when. And the beauty of it, I wouldn’t need any new devices. I use what I always use: my home computer. Turn it on, click the email, open, read and then close. Even Bozo the clown could do that.

Useless Is As Useless Doesn’t

Have To DoFrom Page 8

Calendar

TUESDAY/MARCH 24Poetry of Music: It Takes a Whole Village. 7

p.m. At Annandale United Methodist Church,6935 Columbia Pike, Annandale. Featuring theMaster Singers, Concert Choir and TrebleChoruses of the Fairfax Choral Society. WithPatrick Vaughn, Director, Youth Choruses of theFairfax Choral Society. Tickets are $15/adults;$5/students; Kids 13 and under free.

SATURDAY/MAY 2Healthy Strides 5K/10K. 7:30 a.m. At Burke

Lake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station.Registration is underway for the ninth annualHealthy Strides 5K/10K on Saturday, May 2.The 10K runs along a wooded path and takesparticipants around Burke Lake. The 5K followsa tree-lined road through the park and iswheelchair accessible. Race walkers and strollersare welcome on the 5K route. Both courses areUSATF certified. The run begins at 7:30 a.m.,and all levels are welcome. Space is limited tothe first 500 runners and walkers, so registerearly. The early bird fee is $30 through Friday,January 31, 2020. The price goes up to $35through Tuesday, March 31 and will then rise to$40, if there are still open spots. Teamregistration is also available. Children age twoto six can register for the Lil’ Striders Tot Dashfor $10. Packets will be available for pick-up onFriday, May 1 at the Burke Lake Park Ice CreamParlor from 2 to 7 p.m. and on race day atShelter A from 6 to 7 a.m. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/healthy-strides.

SATURDAY/AUG. 1Unprofane Riders 2nd Annual Car Show. 10

a.m. to 3 p.m. At American Legion Post 176,6520 Amherst Ave., Springfield. Cars, trucks,SUVs, and bikes welcome. All makes andmodels. Registration: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Therewill be trophies, door prizes, and raffle prizes.Food and drink. Kid-friendly event. Proceedswill be going to Shelter House, Inc., a non-profitorganization that helps victims of domesticabuse. Sponsored by Safford of Springfield.Cost: $20 Entry Fee for Cars, Trucks and SUVS,$15 Entry Fee for Bikes, Spectators Free. Visitthe website: https://www.facebook.com/events/2434610970197659/

ONGOINGSecond Saturdays. 6-9 p.m. at the Workhouse

Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Road, Lorton. TheSecond Saturday Art Walk is the perfect time tomeet nearly 85 Resident and Associate Artists,creating art in the studios or exhibiting in ourgalleries. Experience performances of dance,cabaret, comedy, big band, jazz, and theater.Indulge in classes in the art of mixology orcuisines from around the globe. Enjoy artexhibitions in nine galleries of the region’s finestsculpture, painting, glass, ceramics, and fiber artworks. Visit www.workhousearts.org/.

Senior Line Dancing. Mondays, 1 p.m.; Fridays,10-11:30 a.m. at Little RIver Glen Senior Center,4001 Barker Court, Fairfax. Line Dancing is agentle, social form of aerobic activity. Studieshave shown it aids in warding off Alzheimer’sdisease. No previous experience needed. Cost:$5 per 8-week session. [email protected] or call 703-524-3739.

Fairfax Pets on Wheels New VolunteerOrientation. An orientation for new volunteersinterested in visiting residents of nursing homesand assisted living facilities with their approvedpets through the Fairfax Pets On Wheelsprogram is held the first Wednesday of everymonth starting at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.fpow.orgfor each month’s location. Prior to attending,please complete the online application found atwww.fpow.org/volunteer. www.fpow.org, 703-324-5424 [email protected].

Carolina Shag. Wednesdays, 6:30-10 p.m. atArlington/Fairfax Elks Lodge, 8421 ArlingtonBlvd., Fairfax. Free lessons at 7:30 p.m. Nopartners needed. Dinner menu. $8. Under 21free. nvshag.org.

FUN-Exercise Thursdays, noon-12:50 p.m. atGrace Presbyterian Church Family Room, 7434Bath St., Springfield. Inova certified exerciseinstructor leads a moderate level exercise classwith music and current events conversation.Muscle, Balance, Strength Training using stretchbands and weights both standing and seatedexercises. Instructor donation is [email protected] or 703-499-6133.


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