classifieds, page 6 ‘mamma mia! here i go...
TRANSCRIPT
Officer of the YearNews, Page 3
Explaining Death to ChildrenA+, Page 2
‘Mamma Mia! Here I Go Again’
News, Page 3
Sophie and her dads: From left are Shawn Cox, John Totten (in back), Seraphine Terry-berry and Leland Shook.
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By Marilyn Campbell
Rosalie Ward, recalls a hot and sticky sum-mer evening in 1975. She was watching re-runs of the television show “Bewitched” with
her twin sister in the living room while her mothercooked dinner in the kitchen. Ward remembers hear-ing the ring of the family’s rotary telephone. The nextsound she heard was a shriek and then violent sobsfrom her mother.
“My mom had gotten a call that her brother, myuncle, had been killed in a car crash,” remembersWard. “I was six at the time, but most of my memo-ries of that evening are of my mother crying uncon-trollably for the hour or so until my dad came homefrom work. The two of them disappeared behindclosed doors. I just remember being terrified andfeeling alone.”
Whether prolonged or sudden, unforeseen or ex-pected, experiencing the death of a loved one is nevereasy. While grief can weigh heavy on adults, it canoverwhelm and confuse young children. And al-though death is an inevitable part of life, finding thewords to discuss or explain it to young children canchallenge many parents.
“Whether you’re talking about a family pet or agrandparent, it’s important that parents or caregiversunderstand that children grieve too and that deathhas to be discussed,” said Ward, who is a family thera-pist in Reston.
One of the most significant mistakes a parent orcaregiver can make is not being honest with a childabout death, said Carolyn Lorente, Ph.D., professorof psychology at Northern Virginia Community Col-lege. “My biggest worry is when people hide the factthat a loved one died by saying that they went on atrip, and then the child sees the adult crying or be-ing sad,” she said. “That doesn’t give the child achance to process it, but by including them in a de-velopmentally appropriate way, we are teaching thatwe can feel big feelings, and with the support offriends and family, we can still thrive.”
Helping a child to understand they didn’t causethe death could be an important part of the conver-sation, suggests Carol Barnaby, LCSW-C, a therapistin Bethesda. “Children often see the world as revolv-ing around them,” she said. “Reassure them that theirloved one dying was not theirfault and that the death didn’thappen because they had a meanthought, misbehaved, or didn’tvisit enough.”
“Death often brings anxiety inchildren and they wonder if theywill die too,” added Barnaby. “Ex-plaining that although the lovedone has just died, death is notcontagious and that the child willlikely live a very long life.”
Clear, concise word usage isalso important because young children might nothave the language skills to discuss their feelings andemotions, adds Lorente. “Let the child engage in talk-ing about fond memories of the deceased using pic-tures, making favorite recipes, or visiting a favoriteplace,” she said.
Use concrete and authentic terms when discuss-ing it, continued Barnaby. “Avoid euphemisms like‘Grandma is resting’ or ‘has gone away’,” she said.
“These sayings confuse childrenand may cause them anxiety over[the notion] that they could die ifthey fall asleep; or that other lovedones may not come back.” Useclear language like ‘Grandma hasdied.’”
Young children often believedeath is reversible, advises JeromeShort, Ph.D., professor of psychol-ogy at George Mason University.“You could describe how a bodystops working and the person whodied isn’t coming back.”
Be open to having an honest conversation aboutit, continued Short.
“Encourage children to ask questions and tell themyou will help them handle any bad feelings or prob-lems that happen,” he said.
Explaining Death to ChildrenBreaking down adifficult topic andhelping children grieve.
“The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst isa book that could help parents explaindeath to their children.
Bethesda-based therapist Carol Barnaby,LCSW-C suggests “The Memory Box” byJoanna Rowland as a tool to help childrenunderstand the concept of dying.
“Death oftenbrings anxiety inchildren and theywonder if they willdie too.”
— Carol Barnaby, LCSW-C
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Centre View ❖ March 20-26, 2019 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
See Alliance Presents, Page 6
See Fortner, Page 6
By Bonnie Hobbs
Combine hit songs from ABBA,a cast full of stage veterans andan iconic musical that’ll haveaudiences dancing in their
seats, and you get The Alliance Theatre’supcoming production of “Mamma Mia!” Theshow runs March 29-April 14 at MountainView High, 5775 Spindle Court inCentreville.
The story unfolds in Greece, where Ameri-can ex-patriate Donna runs a hotel. Herdaughter Sophie is about to get marriedthere, but doesn’t know which of three menis her father — so she invites them all tothe wedding.
“The scenes take place in the hotel’s court-yard, a dock and a beach,” said DirectorScott Olson. “The aisles in the theater willbe decorated for the wedding, and the au-dience members will all be wedding guests.This is a fun, campy show, and people willlove the music, story and romance. But whatthey’ll like best is that they’ll be able to joinin and sing the songs along with the cast.”
And the festivities will continue after thecurtain closes. “We’re holding a weddingreception, right outside the theater, after theshow,” said Olson. “There’ll be refresh-ments, and the cast will even form a receiv-ing line to meet the audience.”
The play has a cast and crew of 20 and isso popular that actors from far and near
auditioned for it. “It attracted people whowanted to do something different and newto the area,” said Olson. “We got so manyamazingly talented people that 15 tried outfor Sophie, alone.”
For the fathers, he said, “We got ShawnCox, a former Broadway actor who touredwith the show, ‘Titanic,’ and has been awonderful addition to our cast. And I’veworked with Leland Shook and John Tot-ten on other shows, so I know how goodthey are. All three are perfect together asthe dads.” Olson also noted the extensive
theater experience of Cara Giambrone, whoplays Donna, and praised the “wide rangeof acting talent in drama and comedy” ofSeraphine Terryberry, portraying Sophie.
Totten, of Centreville’s Cavalier Woodscommunity, formerly taught at CentrevilleHigh and has acted in at least 10 Allianceshows. Playing dad Bill Austin, Totten saidhis character is a travel-book writer andconfirmed bachelor who lives out of a back-pack.
“He’s self-assured until pressed aboutwhether he might be Sophie’s dad,” said
Totten. “And he and the other possible fa-thers are concerned about what they shoulddo for this daughter that may be theirs. Bill’salso scared when Rosie — one of Donna’sformer singing partners — comes on tohim.”
Calling it a great part, Totten said, “I loveit. I get to sing ABBA music and work witha great staff. I don’t have to dance as muchas the other two dads, and I get to show abig range of emotions in a short span oftime.”
His favorite song is “Thank You for theMusic,” sung by all three dads plus Sophie.It’s personal to him, he explained, because“Having music in my life and being able tosing is a wonderful thing, so I’m very thank-ful for music.”
Totten said audiences will love the show’senergy and music and “will hopefully singalong with much of it. It’s also a neat storywith kind of a surprise ending, plus a mes-sage that there are lots of different kinds offamilies.”
Shawn Cox portrays dad Sam Carmichael,an architect. “He’s smart, sarcastic, flirty andearnest,” said Cox. “He’s still in love withDonna, who he met 21 years ago. He al-ready has two kids, so he’s open to beingSophie’s dad, too. All the dads think she’stheirs. I wanted this role because Sam isreal and relatable. He has some good songsand some nice moments onstage.”
Cox especially likes the number, “TheWinner Takes It All,” sung by Giambroneas Donna. “She belts it out, the lyrics arereally good and it tells a story,” he said. “Andit’s the first time Sam sees that Donna stillhas feelings for him.”
‘Mamma Mia! Here I Go Again’Rollicking musicalpresented by TheAlliance Theatre.
Dueling couples: From left are Cheryl Bolt (as Tanya) and Dante Estrada(as Pepper), and John Totten (as Bill) and Soni Oberleas (as Rosie).
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By Bonnie Hobbs
PFC Kenner D. Fortner III has beenchosen the Sully District PoliceStation’s 2018 Officer of the Year. He
was honored at the Feb. 13 meeting of thestation’s Citizens Advisory Committee.
In nominating him for this award, Lt.Nicholas DiPippa wrote that, all through-out last year, Fortner “has exemplified whatit is to be a patrol officer and leader amonghis peers. He goes above any supervisor’sexpectation of work ethic and performance,while ensuring the welfare of the commu-nity he serves each day. He maintains a posi-tive attitude and is willing to perform abovewhat it takes to make a difference.”
Although Fortner has only been in thePolice Department for four years, he’s al-ready made an impact. “He is a constantproducer and is in the top half – of not only
his squad, but the station– in DWI arrests, crimi-nal arrest, and citations,”wrote DiPippa. “Hepushes himself and chal-lenges his coworkersdaily with his work ethicand his proactive atti-tude.”
“His desire for knowl-edge has him continuallyeducating himself oncase law, code sectionsand law-enforcementtopics,” continuedDiPippa. “Fortner hasbecome an informalleader among his squad, and younger of-ficers seek his guidance on calls routinely.His supervisors rely on him for his knowl-edge, calm manner and good decision-mak-ing skills. It is because of these attributesthat Fortner was selected to become a FieldTraining Instructor.”
DiPippa stressed that Fortner has shownwhat an officer can accomplish by goingabove and beyond his normal duties. In fact,
he noted that Fortner hasbeen nominated for two,lifesaving awards for sav-ing the lives of two citi-zens, on separate calls.
In the first incident, theofficer responded to acall about a male who’dshot himself in the leg.Fortner arrived beforeFire Department person-nel and quickly assessedthe man’s injuries. Ac-cording to DiPippa, “Heapplied a tourniquetwithout hesitation andcontinued to calm the
male to prevent him from going into shock.”In the second event, Fortner responded
for a male who was unconscious and notbreathing. Again, he arrived before the FireDepartment and “noticed the male did nothave a pulse,” wrote DiPippa. “Fortnerquickly began chest compressions that con-tinued for over three minutes before res-cue personnel arrived, saving the male’slife.”
Basically, said DiPippa, “Fortner takes inthe totality of circumstances on calls andthen decides the appropriate action. On oneoccasion, he stopped behind a vehicle thatwas stopped in the middle of traffic on LeeHighway. Fortner noticed the male was dis-oriented and could not open his window.The male at one point was so disoriented,he attempted to put his vehicle in drive.Fortner, along with other officers, broke awindow of the vehicle and rescued the malefrom the car.”
“It was determined that the male was highon narcotics and tried to fight officers,” con-tinued DiPippa. “The male was detainedwithout injury. Even though Fortner hadcriminal charges to arrest the male, his firstthought was for the safety of the maledriver. Fortner had the male transported tothe hospital, where it was determined hehad overdosed on methamphetamines.Fortner did charge the male with his crimes,but made sure he also received medicaltreatment to help him.”
In addition, said DiPippa, “Fortner hasshown a passion and affinity for crime-scene
Someone Who Goes ‘Above and Beyond.’PFC KennerFortner honored asOfficer of the Year.
PFC Kenner D. Fortner III
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4 ❖ Centre View ❖ March 20-26, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Opinion
See Letters, Page 7
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A Connection Newspaper
By Michelle Krocker
Executive Director
Northern Virginia Affordable
Housing Alliance
Last month, a panel appointed by theFairfax County Board of Supervisorsrepresenting a cross-section of com-munity stakeholders and housing
advocates finalized their recommendations forPhase II of the county’s Community-wide Hous-ing Strategic Plan. Not since 2005, when thenChairman Gerry Connolly convened the Afford-
able Housing PreservationAction Committee, hasthere been such a compre-hensive analysis of the state
of affordable housing in Fairfax County.Over the last two years, advisory groups and
ad-hoc committees have been engaged in a top-to-bottom review of administrative, land useand regulatory policies and programs that im-pact affordable housing preservation and pro-duction. The scope of the plan encompassesthe entire continuum of housing needs frompersons with disabilities, seniors on fixed in-comes and formerly homeless households toaffordable homeownership.
The Housing Strategic Plan process beganin June 2017, when the Department of Hous-ing and Community Development (HCD) con-ducted an online county-wide housing surveyand four community outreach sessions. PhaseI of the Plan, which was adopted by the boardin June 2018, identified 25 strategies relatedto land-use and zoning policies, allocation ofexisting financial resources, and administra-tive processes that are outdated or in need ofrevision to expedite affordable housing approv-als. A timeline for the work on these strategiesshows a completion date of 2020.
In Phase II, the ad-hoc Affordable HousingResources Panel focused on two board-definedobjectives: identify an annual goal for the pro-duction of new affordable units; and recom-mend a source of funds for the financial re-sources needed to achieve that goal. Whencompleted, the housing plan will be incorpo-rated into one comprehensive county strate-gic plan that integrates multiple existingagency plans to chart a blueprint for the fu-ture of the county.
RECOMMENDATIONS include housingstrategies that have been promoted for some
time by advocates. They include:❖ A goal to produce a minimum of 5,000
new homes, affordable to households earningno more than 60 percent of the area medianincome over the next 15 years. (It should benoted that the analysis identified the need for15,000 units over the next 15 years);
❖ Dedicate the equivalent of an additionalpenny of the real estate tax (approximately $24million) to support public investment in theseunits beginning in FY2021, as well as retainthe current funding of a half penny to supportpreservation strategies;
❖ Consider a countywide policy on commer-cial contributions to affordable housing pro-duction. Currently, this policy exists only forthe Tysons redevelopment area;
❖ A commitment of “no net loss” of existingmarket affordable units (those serving house-holds up to 60 percent of area median income);
❖ Promote opportunities to co-locate afford-able housing with county capital facilities.
We especially applaud the recognition of theneed for more robust preservation strategies.
FORTHCOMING recommendations from theEMBARK Housing Advisory Group provideadditional strategies for preservation incentivesin both redevelopment and new constructionproposals which could be a template for pres-ervation efforts countywide. The arrival ofAmazon HQ2 should heighten concern amongcounty leadership for vulnerable communitiesin Fairfax County that are located in close prox-imity to Pentagon City. Areas like Seven Cor-ners and Baileys Crossroad, as well as the Rich-mond Highway corridor have all been ap-proved in recent years for transit enhance-ments, mixed-use development and increaseddensity. Amazon’s announcement could be thecatalyst that triggers investment in these ar-eas that are home to thousands of low-income,minority households who live in the older,market-affordable housing located in thesecorridors. Recent Fairfax County Redevelop-ment and Housing Authority (RHA) invest-ments in Parkwood and Murraygate that pre-served over 400 units in the Lee and MasonDistricts are steps in the right direction, butmuch more is needed.
LOOKING AHEAD: Currently, the county hasover 650 affordable units in the pipeline witha development in the Dranesville District inHerndon, a senior housing project in the Lee
District, and a development at the HuntingtonMetro Station in the Mt. Vernon District. Twosizeable parcels of county-owned land locatedin Lee District and Springfield District are be-ing processed for transfer to the RHA as sitesfor housing development. And plans to refi-nance the Crescent and Wedgewood apart-ments will result in additional funds for hous-ing development, or expansion of BridgingAffordability, the County’s local rental subsidyprogram.
All this bodes well for housing affordabilityin Fairfax County. For too long, the county’sbudget has shortchanged investments in newconstruction and preservation. An inventorydeveloped by Virginia Tech’s Center for Hous-ing Research shows that only 9,000 market-affordable units, affordable to a family of fourearning approximately $66,000 annually, re-main in the county. However, more than 68,000households in the county earn no more than$50,000 annually. Rents are rising faster thanincomes, and families are experiencing rentburdens, overcrowding or are being priced outof the county.
NEXT STEPS: In March, recommendationsfrom the Phase II Panel will be presented tothe Board of Supervisors for their considerationand approval. Afterwards, the final package ofhousing recommendations will be given to theCounty Executive to be incorporated into theboard’s budget guidance for FY2021. This willoccur when the Board adopts the FY2020 bud-get on May 7.
Nothing is certain until board adoption. Butadvocates throughout the county feel that inthis very consequential election year, when somany candidates for the Board of Supervisorshave identified housing affordability as a pri-ority issue, this is the year for significant hous-ing wins. To be successful, housing advocatesmust build a coalition of support that encom-passes the business community and anchorinstitutions like healthcare facilities, educationadvocates, supporters of coordinated multi-modal transit and land use planning, organi-zations promoting compact, mixed-use devel-opment and entities working for social justiceand racial equity. This plan is bold and forward-thinking, and in this election year a commu-nity-wide campaign will be critical for adop-tion.
For more, see www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hous-ing/communitywideplan.
Fairfax County’s Bold Housing Agenda
Commentary
Do GoodWorksTo the Editor:
It was beyond shocking for meto learn that there was a terroristattack at two mosques inChristchurch, New Zealand. Inno-cent worshippers attending FridayPrayer were gunned down justbecause they were Muslim. It irksme that there’s nothing I can do. Iam sad and frustrated that I can’tdo anything for the people affected
or I can’t spread enough peace topeople. I can’t even get mythoughts down because I am hav-ing so many … like why can’t ev-eryone live peacefully? How didthis help anyone? Some peoplehave so much hatred in them thatit doesn’t matter what you say. ButI know that I have to be positive andhope it will influence someone. TheQur’an says, “Vie with one anotherin good works” (2:149). And goodwork is what we all need to do.
Saba AmjadChantilly
To FightDarknessTo the Editor:
We are deeply saddened by themassacre of our Muslim neighbors.The murders this past week of chil-dren, women and men inChristchurch, New Zealand, is anawful painful repeat of the attacksthat have taken place around theworld and in our own community.This is a new reminder of thepower of dark words to multiply
Letters to the Editor
in strength.We pledge continued prayer for
these victims, and for all in reli-gious communities everywhere.We pray for all who are insecurein this most sacred and preciousright, to worship God, and to workwith others to share the peace,goodwill and care for others, thatthe Creator wants for all.
We pray that at this time, andalways, we may stand together indetermination that darkness andhate will not overwhelm faith, and
Centre View ❖ March 20-26, 2019 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Please join us for our
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Fair OaksCAC Meeting
The next meeting of the Fair Oaks Dis-trict Police Station’s Citizens Advisory Com-mittee (CAC) is set for Tuesday, March 26,at 7:30 p.m., at the Cale Community Cen-ter, 4615 Stringfellow Road, in Greenbriar.These monthly meetings are open to thepublic and all ages are welcome.
The Officer of the Month award for Feb-ruary will be presented, along with detailsabout why that officer was selected. Andthe featured guests will be members of theFairfax County Police Department’s MarinePatrol Unit. It patrols county waterways,aids the boating community and is the onlyfull-time, local law-enforcement marinepatrol in Northern Virginia’s waters.
Free CarseatInspections
Certified technicians from the Sully Dis-trict Police Station will perform free, childsafety carseat inspections Tuesday, April 2,from 5-8:30 p.m., at the station, 4900Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly. No appoint-ment is necessary. But residents should in-stall the child safety seats themselves sotechnicians may properly inspect and ad-just them, as needed.
Because of time constraints, only the first35 vehicles arriving on each date will beinspected. That way, inspectors may haveenough time to properly instruct thecaregiver on the correct use of the child seat.Call 703-814-7000, ext. 5140, to confirmdates and times.
See Bulletin, Page 7
Roundups
Submit civic/community announcements atConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos andartwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, atleast two weeks before event.
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATIONChildren who will be 5 years old on or before Sept.
30, 2019, are eligible to attend kindergarten.Find the correct neighborhood school byentering your address at boundary.fcps.edu/boundary/. Complete a packet of registrationforms found at www.fcps.edu/it/forms/enroll.pdf or in the school office. Gathersupporting documents: proof of residence in theschool boundary, a certified copy of the child’sbirth certificate, parent/guardian photo ID, andany custody orders. Certificate of physical examand immunization will be required before the
student may start school, but is not required forregistration. Parents who choose to delayenrollment in kindergarten by one year arerequired to notify the school in writing of theirintent. Learn more at www.fcps.edu/registration/general-registration-requirements.
❖ Union Mill Elementary is currentlyregistering new students for the 2019-20 schoolyear. Find registration forms in the Union MillElementary office or online at www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/enroll_0.pdf.Call 703-322-8500 or email [email protected] tomake an appointment to bring completedregistration forms and supportingdocumentation to school. KindergartenOrientation will take place on Monday, April 1,4-5 p.m.
Bulletin Board
6 ❖ Centre View ❖ March 20-26, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
From Page 3
Fortner: Officer of the Yeartechniques.” Fortner has a background in crime-sceneknowledge, but continues to add to his repertoireby attending crime-scene classes with the FairfaxCounty Police Department.
Furthermore, Fortner has been given several ac-colades from detectives and crime- scene personnelon his documentation of scenes, report writing, andprocessing skills. “If there is a priority call that coulduse his crime-scene skills, Fortner has already startedto respond to assist officers,” wrote DiPippa.
A call exemplifying this attribute happened whena citizen reported a vehicle had been broken into inthe neighborhood. Fortner responded to assist theprimary officer by processing the vehicle in hopesof obtaining suspect fingerprints. He located tracesof blood in the vehicle and correctly collected them,according to the skills he acquired in his crime-sceneclasses.
“Fortner further assisted the primary officer whensuspects were later developed,” wrote DiPippa. “Hethen wrote a search warrant for the suspect’s DNAand could tie them to the vehicle that was brokeninto, assisting in securing a conviction.”
But that’s not all. “Another outstanding case con-ducted by Fortner was when he spoke with a citizenwho had his wallet stolen,” wrote DiPippa. “Fortnerwrote a very detailed and thorough report that re-ceived praised from Sully detectives. He did not stopat just taking a simple report. but contacted the vic-tim on a follow-up and realized that the victim’s creditcards had been used.”
Fortner received copies of the receipts to show datesand times of the fraudulent transactions. He thenreceived still images of the suspect at the locationswhere these transactions were made.
“Fortner also obtained arrest warrants for the sus-pect for fraudulent transactions over $1,150,” wroteDiPippa. “He arrested the male, interviewed him andobtained a confession from the suspect for all thefraudulent transactions, as well as for the originallarceny of the wallet, forming a rock-solid case forcourt prosecution.”
DiPippa ended his award recommendation by say-ing, “In recognition of his hard work and devotion toduty during 2018, PFC Kenner Fortner has beennamed Officer of the Year for the Sully District Sta-tion.”
Alliance Presents ‘Mamma Mia!’From Page 3
He expects the show to be a big hit because “Peoplelove this music and it brings back memories of wherethey were when they first heard these songs. Andthe story is frothy and fun, with bits of seriousnessand lots of silliness. Teens and adults will enjoy it.”
Playing dad Harry Bright is Leland Shook. “Harry’sa British banker, but has a fun-loving personality,”said Shook. “Being on the island, he finds the hap-piness of his youth, as opposed to the seriousness ofhis everyday life. I usually direct musicals and act indramas, But I’m having fun being in this productionwith all the other cast members and staff and theirgreat energy.” Being a huge ABBA fan, Shook likesall the group’s songs, particularly “I Have a Dream,”sung by Terryberry as Sophie. “It fits her characterwell,” he said. “And it shows her changing from agirl to a woman and being responsible for her ownactions.” He said the younger audience members willenjoy “Mamma Mia!” because it’s a popular Broad-way show and movie. “Adults will like the nostalgiaof the songs,” he added. “And there are lots ofbreakout, funny moments — it’s a hilarious show.”
Seraphine “Sissi” Terryberry portrays Sophie.“She’s an optimist, a romantic who thinks with herheart and a very vulnerable character,” said
Terryberry. “She’s hopeful and believes things willturn out all right and that good will overcome badand love will beat out any obstacles.”
Terryberry likes her part because of Sophie’s up-beat attitude. “It’s encouraging to me, and I’ve beenable to bring her positive mentality into my ownlife,” she said. “I’ve previously played either maleroles or women in period pieces, so it’s my first in-genue role set in modern times.”
Her favorite number is “Voulez Vou.” Performedby the entire cast, Terryberry calls it “a party onstageand so much fun to sing.” She also likes “Slippingthrough My Fingers,” sung by Donna, with Sophiejoining in at the end. “It’s right before the weddingand is about wondering where the time goes withyour children,” said Terryberry. “And it’s a specialmoment that mother and daughter share together.”
She said the show tells a story about love, not justromantically, but in a family. “It’s great for momsand daughters to see a representation of a mother-daughter relationship where you’re bickering oneminute, but wouldn’t want to be arguing with any-one else,” said Terryberry. “The story reminds peopleto appreciate their family dynamic — and also hassome sparkly costumes, jazzy dance moves andpretty funny jokes.”
Centre View ❖ March 20-26, 2019 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.
By KENNETH B. LOURIE
On Monday, I take one of our “Buff Boys” (beige-colored cats), “Chino,” to the vet for his bi-weekly glucose-monitoring day. This is his new rou-tine as “Chino” was recently diagnosed with diabetes.
In addition, since his diagnosis, I’ve been injecting him with insulin twice a day, subcutaneously (“sub-q”) going on six weeks now. Though he’s eating well, he’s lost weight; apparently, it’s related.
Without getting too sad, too soon, he looks frail and the stares and meows he gives me seem to be pleas for help which, other than providing food, water and touch, I am clueless as to what else I can do. I’m not anticipating the worst yet, but when I pick him up at the vet later in the day, I’m not expecting the best either.
I began immunotherapy. I don’t quite know what to expect; although I know what I hope.
The fact is I/we neglected to ask my oncologist
a time frame about the immunotherapy’s effective-ness; and as we’ve moved on, we have a few other questions: Will the infusion have any effect after just eight weeks, generally? Is there a protocol/length of treatment which a patient is supposed to have before success or failure is determined? Are there any indica-tions other than scan results which might contribute to an assessment of the drug’s impact on my tumors? Is it possible that the tumors in my lungs might have a different reaction (shrink, stable, grow) than my “Ad-am’s apple” tumor? If so, then what? Are there any side effects from my bi-weekly infusions which could cause my treatment to stop?
Beyond these types of questions, my oncologist prefers not to discuss scenarios. The short summary is: we’re looking for some kind of clarity and/or guar-antee. Unfortunately, for cancer patients, clarity and guarantees ended on the date of your diagnosis.
On Friday, I have my next scheduled infusion (with pre-infusion lab work on Wednesday). Door to door, depending on how busy the Infusion Center is, and depending how long it takes the pharmacy to mix/prepare my drug, it will be approximately three hours until I’m back home. The experience is not tedious nor is it torture.
Compared to the eight-hour days I had to endure in the early, heavy-duty days of chemotherapy, this time commitment is a breeze. And when one considers the relatively minor side effects – so far, the routine is quite bearable. (I just need the immunotherapy to be effective.)
On the following Monday, we see my oncologist. Typically, we don’t see him until later in the week on Friday. In the 10-day interim, my oncologist will email results of the scan – with his assessment – and attach the radiologist’s report so that when we see him, we’re aware and prepared.
However, in this week’s particular instance he had
on Friday. As such, we are seeing him so soon after the scan occurs that he might not have any results to email us before our appointment.
This means that we’ll be going into the appoint-ment cold, so to speak. Which means we’ll be extremely anxious as we sit in the examining room waiting for his knock asking if it’s OKAY for him to come in. And then staring at his face as he enters looking for any kind of hopeful sign that the treatment has worked.
And that’s what this week-plus-one-day will be: a struggle; about me, for my wife, about our life together and about one of our cats.
Each of the four days/four events itself would be stressful and thought-provoking enough. Having them occur one right after the other, simultaneously almost, is like adding insult to injury. It’s bad enough to begin with and it’s potentially even worse how it might end with – really bad news.
Through it all, somehow we must remain positive. There’s no future in being negative.
To invoke the late Yogi Berra, who said in 1973 while managing the last-place New York Mets: “It ain’t over ‘till it’s over.” (And of course they went on to win the National League pennant.)
Eight Daze and SevenSleepless Nights
From Page 4
Letters
that all faith communities will stand to-gether. We have great respect for the longwork for peace and reconciliation in ourneighboring Muslim communities, and wepledge our support for this work.
We remember the words of our brotherand prophet, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,himself a victim of hate crime:
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness;Only light can do thatHate cannot drive out hate;Only love can do that,Violence multiplies violence,And toughness multiplies toughness.In a descending spiral of destruction ….The chain reaction of evil —Hate begetting hate,Wars producing more wars —Must be broken,Or we shall be plunged into the darkness
of annihilation.”We pray for strength from the One Cre-
ator who lifts the fallen and encourages theweak, to make us instruments for life andpeace.
Members of WellspringUnited Church of Christ
Centreville
A Sad DayIn New ZealandTo the Editor:
At least 49 people were killed and 20 se-riously injured in mass shootings at twomosques in the New Zealand city ofChristchurch on Friday, March 15, thatshocked the usually peaceful nation.
We are extremely shocked and disgustedby this. Our prayers are with the victimsand their families. We especially feel thepain described in the Quran verse, “Who-soever killed a person [...] it shall be as ifhe had killed all mankind” (5:32).
While the shooter’s actions seem raciallyand religiously motivated, as Muslims weunderstand that this in no way reflects theviews of his ethnic or religious identity. Thissame principle should also apply to so-calledIslamic-inspired terrorists.
Prophet Muhammad forbade all forms ofterrorism, and instead taught his followersto engage in personal reflection for self-improvement.
That was, is, and always will be the great-est Jihad.
The spiritual leader of Ahmadiyya muslimcommunity, His Holiness Mirza MasroorAhmad, has stated that “Extremism mustbe cut at its root.”
Zahid YousafCentreville
From Page 5
Bulletin Board
❖ Brookfield Elementary School will host akindergarten registration for the 2019-2020school year on Friday, April 5, 2019. Contact theschool at 703-814-8700 to make a registrationappointment.
❖ Colin Powell Elementary School inCentreville will conduct their Kindergartenregistration on Friday, April 5, 9 a.m.-noon;parents may also call 571-522-6008 to schedulean appointment. Due to the time required toregister a child, they request that only parentscome to school for registration.
8 ❖ Centre View ❖ March 20-26, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Entertainment
Participants enjoying vendors and historic sites during Centreville Day.
Volunteers WantedThe Planning Committee for Centreville Day 2019 is looking for new volunteers. The 27th anniversary of Centreville Day
will be on Saturday, Oct.19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., in Historic Centreville Park. Learn how to be part of this family-friendly annualcommunity event. Monday, April 8, 7-9 p.m. at Sully District Governmental Center, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly. Visitwww.centrevilleday.org or call 571-232-9371.
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Calendar
Submit entertainment announcementsat www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal-endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday.Photos/artwork encouraged.
ONGOINGArt Exhibit: “Fifty Shades of
Green.” Through April 15, galleryhours at the Caton Merchant FamilyGallery, 9419 Battle St., Manassas.Founded in 2016, Nova Plein AirArtists (NPAA) was initiated due to ashared desire to explore the idea ofpainting outdoors. Since then, NPAAhas evolved into a creative,educational and social network oflocal artists committed to paintingweekly at organized “paint-outs.”Shades of Green showcases artworkfrom 11 active, local artists. Visitcenter-for-the-arts.org or call 703-330-2787.
THURSDAY/MARCH 21Weekend Food for Kids. 10-11:30
a.m. at Dominion Energy, 3072Centreville Road, Chantilly.Assistance League of NorthernVirginia, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofitorganization, invites communitymembers to help pack food for itsWeekend Food for Kids program.This critical program providesnonperishable food over the weekendto children who receive free orreduced-price meals during theschool year at Title I schools inFairfax and Prince William Countiesand the City of Alexandria. Mayarrive at 9:30 to help with setup.Free. Visit www.alnv.org.
SATURDAY/MARCH 23Friends of the Fairfax Station. 11
a.m. at the Fairfax Station RailroadMuseum, 11200 Fairfax StationRoad, Fairfax Station. RichardSlattery, Senior Director of Policyand Research of the NationalRailroad Passenger Corp. (AMTRAK)will discuss the current state andfuture prospects of passenger railservices in the U.S. Slattery’spresentation will take place as thekeynote speaker following the annualmembership meeting of the Friendsof the Fairfax Station. The meetingand the Forum are free and open tothe public. Light refreshments will beavailable. Visit www.fairfax-station.org or call 703-425-9225.
Reception: “Fifty Shades ofGreen.” 6-8 p.m. at the CatonMerchant Family Gallery, 9419 BattleSt., Manassas. Founded in 2016,
Nova Plein Air Artists (NPAA) wasinitiated due to a shared desire toexplore the idea of painting outdoors.Since then, NPAA has evolved into acreative, educational and socialnetwork of local artists committed topainting weekly at organized “paint-outs.” Shades of Green showcasesartwork from 11 active, local artists.Visit center-for-the-arts.org or call703-330-2787.
SUNDAY/MARCH 24Spring Make ‘n Take Activity. 1-4
p.m. at the Fairfax Station RailroadMuseum, 11200 Fairfax StationRoad, Fairfax Station. Make tissuepaper flowers to welcome spring.Ages 16 and older, $4; 5-15, $2; 4and under, free. Visit www.fairfax-station.org, www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, or call 703-425-9225.
Live Music: Valerie Smith &Liberty Pike. 7 p.m. (doors open at6) at Frying Pan Farm Park VisitorCenter, 2739 West Ox Road,Herndon. Make plans to “hitch up theteam” and head to Frying Pan FarmPark this season for Bluegrass Barn.Food and beverages available forpurchase. $18 in advance, $20 at thedoor. Purchase tickets online atwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/frying-pan-park/bluegrass-barn or by phoneat 703-222-4664 or 703-437-9101.
THURSDAY/MARCH 28Who Left That Behind? 1-2:30 p.m.
at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 5040Walney Road, Chantilly. Learn parkcritters by the signs they leavebehind. Join a naturalist on a hike tolook for and identify these signs, andthem complete a craft that helps youlearn to identify different animalscat. Wear sturdy walking shoes. $8per person. Ages 4 and older.Children must be accompanied by aregistered adult. Call 703-631-0013or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/eclawrence.
SATURDAY/MARCH 30NoVaTEEN Book Festival. 9:30 a.m.
at Marshall High School, 7731Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. TheNoVaTEEN Book Festival is back witha day full of panels, games, andsignings with over 30 bestselling andemerging Young Adult authors. Learnmore on the official festival website.The event is free and open to to thepublic; tickets and schedule -atnovateenbookfestival.com.
Lecture: The Power of Objects. 1
p.m. at Sully Historic Site, 3650Historic Sully Way, Chantilly. Comefor a discussion with Dr. Jennifer VanHorn on her book, “The Power ofObjects in Eighteenth-Century BritishAmerica.” In the book, Van Horninvestigates Anglo-American items todiscover the importance of objects inthe formation of a new society. Lightrefreshments will be available beforeand after the presentation. This talkis sponsored by the Sully Foundation,Ltd., and donations will be gratefullyaccepted. Space is limited, so pleasereserve a seat by March 14. Forreservations or for more information,call 703-437-1794 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully-historic-site/.
Amphibians After Dark. 7:30-8:30p.m. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park,5040 Walney Road, Chantilly. Assistnaturalists at Ellanor C. LawrencePark with a calling amphibian survey.Learn how to identify frogs and toadsby their calls while exploring poolsand ponds. $7 per person. Ages 7 andolder. Children must be accompaniedby a registered adult. Call 703-631-0013 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/eclawrence.
SUNDAY/MARCH 31Learn about the “Tender Cars” on
Trains. 1-4 p.m. at the FairfaxStation Railroad Museum, 11200Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station.Learn about the “Tender Cars” a typeof railroad car on trains. Story boardsand a craft will begin the series ofactivities to learn about the differenttypes of cars on trains. Ages 16 andolder, $4; 5-15, $2; 4 and under,free. Visit www.fairfax-station.org orcall 703-425-9225.
MONDAYS STARTING APRIL 1Program for Homeschoolers. 1-
2:30 p.m. At E.C. Lawrence Park,5040 Walney Road, Chantilly. Flockto Ellanor C. Lawrence Park forHomeschool Biology-Birds wherestudents receive hands-on instructionin wild bird identification, migration,habitats and conservation throughcitizen science. Instructors usepreserved species, and wild birds toillustrate the concepts. All lessons arestructured around the VirginiaStandards of Learning. The programmeets every Monday from 1-2:30p.m. except April 15. This program isgeared for students ages 8-15. Call703-631-0013 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/eclawrence.