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‘RED DRESS’ EVENT PUTS FOCUS ON HEALTH, STYLE

McLEAN RESIDENT TO LEAD GOLF ASSN.

MADISON GIRLS WIN STATE SWIM, DIVE CROWN

6 16 20 34

Opinion Real Estate Schools Crossword

Spring

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Sun Gazette Spring VOLUME 39

GREAT FALLS McLEAN OAKTON TYSONS VIENNA

NO. 23

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Tax Bills to Rise in Draft Budget

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New County Executive Seeks $441 Million More BRIAN TROMPETER Staff Writer

tial properties across Fairfax County rose 2.2 percent to $547,219, with jumps in all three segments of the market: • Single family-detached homes saw an average increase of $656,071, up 2.1 percent. • Townhouses/duplexes saw an average increase of 2.9 percent to $409,792. • Condominiums saw an average increase of 1.7 percent to $264,974. Every corridor in the county saw a

New Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill on Feb. 20 proposed a $8.42 billion fiscal year 2019 budget that would give county employees raises, boost the school transfer and raise the real estate tax rate by 2.5 cents. The budget is the first for Hill, who arrived in early January to succeed retired County Executive Edward Long. Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova (D) acknowledged Hill’s daunting task after just 53 days on job. “This is called baptism by fire, jumping into the deep end,” she said. The budget would be $441 million, or about 5.5 percent, above the previous year’s adopted budget. Fairfax County Public Schools would receive a $95.1 million, or 4.38 percent, transfer increase under Hill’s budget. School funding would constitute 52.8 percent of the county’s general-fund budget. Superintendent Scott Brabrand in January submitted a proposed budget asking for a $96.9 million increase in the school transfer.

Continued on Page 14

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Volunteers for Change, an initiative of Volunteer Fairfax, recently hosted a family-friendly “Valentines Challenge” that brought dozens of local residents to hand-craft cards for distribution to former foster children. The event, held at Fire Station 3 in the city of Fairfax, was a collaboration with Foster Care 2 Success. The Valentine’s Day cards will be distributed to college students in coming weeks. Enjoy a slide show of photos from the event at www.insidenova.com/news/fairfax.

Fairfax Home Assessments Post Modest Year-Over-Year Increase SCOTT McCAFFREY Staff Writer

Ongoing strength in the Fairfax County real estate market is reflected in updated home assessments, released Tuesday by the Fairfax County government. About 65 percent of the residential parcels in Fairfax County saw an assessment increase, county officials said. State law requires that all property be assessed on an annual basis. The average assessment of all residen-

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Links Celebrate Beauty, Heart Health at Festivities More Than 700 Pack Alexandria Hotel’s Ballroom to Hear Stories of Inspiration and Joy

More than 700 community-minded civic, business and political leaders descended on the Hilton Mark Center Hotel in Alexandria on Feb. 2 to celebrate heart health and beauty at the 10th annual Links Red Dress Day, sponsored by chapters of The Links, Inc. from across the Washington region. “When I first started this program, there were 50 participants, and now there are over 700,” said Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, national vice president of The Links, Inc. and originator of the event. “It is wonderful to see that communities are being improved and lives are being saved through our . . . initiative,” Leonard said. The 2018 event – with a theme of “A Heart-Healthy and Beautiful You” – was co-chaired by Lavern Chatman and Shirley Bowden. Andrea Roane WUSA-TV and Molette Green of WRC-TV and WHUR-FM served as emcees. Noted cardiologists Dr. Barbara Hutchinson and Dr. Oluseyi Princewell were the featured medical-expert speakers, providing insightful and informative information on the various aspects of heart disease, prevention, symptoms and related conditions. In addition to the medical panel, the event featured exclusive products and services promoting women’s health and

Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, national vice president of The Links Inc., and cardiologist Dr. Barbara Hutchinson were among speakers at the Feb. 2 “Red Dress Day,” sponsored by The Links PHOTOS BY DAVID FITZGERALD/DGF PHOTOGRAPHY Inc. and held at the Hilton Mark Center Hotel.

beauty throughout the evening. Fifty guests took home door prizes and giveaways from event partners including L’Oreal Paris/La Roche-Posay, Nava Wellness, Bliss Spa, W Hotel New York (Times Square), Hilton Mark Center Hotel, Massage Envy, The Red Bloom and Stretch Workz. N Street Village, the largest provider of housing and services for women in the District of Columbia, served as community partner for this year’s Red Dress, receiving received over $8,000 from the

Welcome Home

DMV Links. Also, the women of N Street were given Red Dress lapel pins, gift goodie bags and red pashminas. As part of a weekend of events, members of The Links spent an afternoon with the courageous women of N Street Village and sponsored a heart-healthy

cooking demonstration with American Heart Association’s celebrity chef Cynthia Anderson. She showed the women how to prepare a delicious healthy twocourse meal for under $30. On Feb. 4, the Links worshiped together at Reid Temple A.M.E. Church (Pastor Matthew Watley and First Lady Shawna Watley) and distributed 1,200 Red Dress lapel pins and heart-health material to parishioners. Red Dress was hosted by 11 participating area Links chapters: Arlington; Annapolis; Capital City; Metropolitan; Mount Rose; Old Dominion; Patuxent River; Prince George’s County; Reston: Silver Spring; and Washington, D.C. The Links is an international, not-forprofit corporation established in 1946. Membership consists of nearly 15,000 professional women of color in 284 chapters located in 41 states, the District of Columbia and the Bahamas. Links members contribute more than 950,000 hours of community service annually – strengthening their communities and enhancing the nation.

Get Your FAcebook Fix oNe oF tWo WAYS! Sun Gazette readers now have two ways to stay connected to us via Facebook. Our traditional all-local site – SunGazetteNews – is back online, and you can find both local and regional coverage at InsideNoVa. Even better, check in with both regularly for updates and special features!

PUBLIC NOTICE Public Hearing on the McLean Community Center’s FY 2020 Programs

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February 22, 2018 3

Options Mulled to Ease Backups at G.F. Park BRIAN TROMPETER Staff Writer

Great Falls Park’s popularity has soared in recent years, but the park’s difficulty in handling the crush of visitors – which has vexed neighbors for more than a quarter-century – continues. The National Park Service on Nov. 15 last year issued a congestion-assessment report offering dozens of suggestions on how the 800-acre park can speed up visitor check-ins and reduce traffic backups that sometimes stretch about a mile to Georgetown Pike. Park officials are considering options such as variable-message signs, traffic cameras and “don’t block the box” police enforcement at Old Dominion Drive and Georgetown Pike and opening up another admission window at the park’s entrance. “We are working with Supervisor [John] Foust’s office, the Fairfax County Department of Transportation and the National Park Service to remedy this situation,” said Alexcy Romero, superintendent of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, of which Great Falls Park is a part. “We try to provide a great and safe visitor experience in Great Falls.” Efforts to solve the problems have ebbed and flowed for decades, said Pamela Grosvenor, chairman of the Great Falls Citizens Association’s Transportation Committee. “In 1992, neighbors near the park raised concerns about traffic backing up on Old Dominion Drive,” she said. “It was affecting their ability to live their lives.” Park visitation jumped 65 percent between 2006 and 2016, from roughly 419,000 visitors to 692,000 annually. Traffic counts ranged between 160,000

Stone walls of the former Patowmack Canal are among the attractions at Great Falls Park, PHOTO BY BRIAN TROMPETER where officials are trying to reduce entrance backups.

and 180,000 vehicles annually from 2006 to 2011, then rose to a record of nearly 268,400 in 2016 – and officials expect 2017’s tally to be even higher. The park, which opened in 1966, charges $10 per vehicle for visitors who have not purchased passes. Entrance backups especially are acute on “fee-free” days. Park officials in recent years have accelerated those gate transactions by encouraging visitors to pay cash, offering faster electronic processing of credit-card charges and telling staff on peak days to cut the chitchat with customers. Those initiatives paid off well between 2015 and 2017, with credit-card transaction times cut by two-thirds to 15 seconds apiece and cash-payment times decreasing by more than half, from 19 seconds to 9. These improvements in turn drastically reduced, from 35 instances in 2015 and 2016 to just five in 2017, the number of occasions when traffic on Old Dominion Drive impeded the intersection at George-

town Pike, officials said. “We encourage people to come early, check social media for updates on traffic and parking, and carpool,” said Aaron LaRocca, chief of staff at the George Washington Memorial Parkway. “Wouldn’t you rather wait in line with a car full of your friends rather than alone in your vehicle?” Hikers and bicyclists can enter the park via other entrances, but most visitors – about 95 percent – enter and leave the park via a two-lane section of Old Dominion Drive, which stretches 0.9 miles between Georgetown Pike and the park’s entrance. The road is operated by the Virginia Department of Transportation, which adds another wrinkle when trying to solve traffic woes. The entrance booth admits just one vehicle at a time, so traffic backups are common. Old Dominion Drive near the park’s entrance has steep terrain on either side, lacks shoulder areas for pedestrians

and has no place (except the driveways of private residences) where drivers who have given up on visiting the park can reverse direction without making threepoint turns. Traffic congestion on Old Dominion Drive also makes it harder for emergency vehicles to access the site. A 1992 memo cited some possible solutions, including creating a “middle lane” on Old Dominion Drive to allow passage of fire engines and other emergency vehicles and having fire personnel enter via Carriage Road. Visitors must park in one of three lots, which together have 525 spaces. Those lots only rarely fill up entirely, and when that occurs, park rangers at the entrance begin metering parking and allowing only one vehicle to enter after another has departed. Parking could be expanded by about 15 percent to 612 spaces overall by reducing the width of spaces and expanding the lower parking lot into areas covered by trees that have died. Foust supported parking improvements and expedited visitor check-ins at the park. “I think they can get more capacity out of the parking areas down there with improved striping,” Foust said. “I have suggested from the beginning – I’m a frequent user of the park – that there should be two [entrance] lines. People with passes should be waved in. We need to do anything we can do to minimize time spent at the check-in.” Agency officials are not considering parking garages, as they would harm the park’s aesthetics, Romero said. “If you start raising parking decks, it removes from the landscape you’re trying to create,” he said.

Frank Crandall Dies; Advocated for Parks, Environment BRIAN TROMPETER Staff Writer

Frank Crandall rarely had to be told, “Tell us what you really think.” The outspoken parks and environmental advocate, who died Feb. 13 at age 83, minced few words. Pressing the Tysons Land-Use Task Force in 2008 for adequate park space, he called the group “one of the most flawed, tragic and travesty-ridden operations I’ve ever seen.” He added, “I’d rather see the plug pulled on the entire Tysons process than see surrounding neighborhoods sacrificed.” A 39-year McLean resident, Crandall died of heart and lung failure at Sunrise of McLean, where he had been living since September 2017. Friends described him as forceful and knowledgeable. “Frank Crandall was McLean’s environmental hero, always effective, but always quiet about his accomplishments,” said McLean resident Adrienne Whyte. “We owe him more than we can acknowledge in words. Perhaps our clean air, wa4

February 22, 2018

ter, trees, quality of life and abundant wildlife are an appropriate testament.” Crandall was born in 1934 in the Southgate area of Los Angeles, the only child of John and Gladys Crandall, and graduated from the University of California, Berkeley. He was trained in engineering and marine biology and spent his career in space sciences and medical-information systems. Crandall moved to Fairfax County in 1976 after he took a job with the Red Cross. After retiring from that organization, Crandall in 1990 developed a volunteer research position in biology at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History. In 1999, he began serving on the Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council and in 2010 started his service on the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance Review Committee. His served with both groups until his death, said Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville), who nominated him for the district’s Lord Fairfax award in 2008. “He had respect of everyone when it

came to issues of environment and had broad knowledge of animals, trees, air and water,” Foust said. Crandall also served on the county’s former Erosion and Sedimentation Review Board and spent a decade on the County Executive’s Deer Management Committee. As chair or co-chair of the McLean Citizens Association’s (MCA)

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Environment, Parks and Recreation Committee for more than two decades, Crandall advocated for parks, trails, trees and efficient county spending. Crandall was among those who persuaded county officials to change renovation plans for Dolley Madison Library in McLean to preserve about 114 mature trees at the site. The upgraded library reopened to the public in 2011. He also supported creation of a task force in 2011 to examine possible uses of the historic, 52-acre Salona property in McLean. Crandall and some other civic activists opposed the addition of athletic fields at the site. MCA members lauded his community service. Crandall had encyclopedic knowledge and was a patient and caring mentor, said Darren Ewing, an MCA member who lives in Pimmit Hills. “How does one adequately comment on a legend?” he asked. “Frank was the consummate environmental activist. His love and passion for parks, recreation and Continued on Page 14

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February 22, 2018

Opinion

Find more letters and an archive of editorials at www.insidenova.com/ news/fairfax (Click on “Opinion”)

Our View: Criminality Requires Consequences For the record, we happen to think the General Assembly is doing the right thing in increasing the threshold for felony grand larceny from $200 (tied for lowest in the nation) to $500, part of an agreement worked out between the Democratic governor and Republican leaders in the legislature. That seems like a reasonable compromise between those who would like to see no change at all and those who wanted to see the threshold bumped up much more. As to that latter group – which seems to include any number of newspaper editorial pages across the commonwealth – we’re a tad disconcerted by their reason-

ing. They seem to gloss over, with little thought, the damage that is done to victims of theft, while focusing their attentions on giving criminals more wiggle room to escape the ramifications of their actions. Anyone who’s ever been a victim of theft, be it an individual or a business, finds the experience exasperating and, often, emotionally traumatizing. Their experiences are hardly something to trivialize, as some seem to be doing in this case. The bottom line: Raising the threshold from $200 to $500 was a responsible step. But leave it there. Those with a proclivity for criminal behavior should have consequences attached to their actions.

We’re guessing the prime rationale for Democrats in the General Assembly to press for ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment in this year’s session was to paint Republicans as anti-woman. And with help from a pliant media, the effort had some success when Republicans – as everyone anticipated – killed off ERA proposals in both houses of the legislature. Most believe ERA ratification would be purely symbolic (the deadline for the measure ended in 1982), but the way courts interpret things these days, maybe not. And if there

is a chance that the amendment could become part of the U.S. Constitution, there is an added onus on those who support it to explain to Virginians – warts and all – what the impact of the measure would be. There is nothing to be gained, except political points, by pushing the measure as a feel-good embodiment of women’s rights. If this comes back in 2019, proponents need to have better arguments at the ready. We’re willing to be receptive, but so far have not been persuaded passage of the ERA passes muster.

ERA Boosters Need to Come Back with Stronger Arguments

Quota System for TJ Admissions Would Be Awful Editor: I agree with your editorial-page view that the current admissions process at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, while not perfect, is certainly better than any others suggested. Admissions to TJ should be based

exclusively on merit. Race, economic status and ethnicity should be totally ignored. Let’s not penalize some outstanding applicants due to the implementation of some quota systems whereby less-capable applicants are admitted. Rather than relying on arbitrary

quotas, students and students’ families should focus on improving their test scores and academic performance. This requires old-fashioned work; shortcuts and arbitrary quotas are not an alternative. David Elmore Great Falls

Editor: Sun Gazette letter-writer J. Jay Volkert was disappointed “to watch Rep Comstock stand by and ignore the fact that, because of our prosperous community, many of us will be penalized with higher taxes.” U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) sent me an e-mail that

states, “The Republican bill is first and foremost a massive tax cut for corporations and the wealthiest Americans.” I am confused. Which is it: Higher taxes for our prosperous community, or massive tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans? If anyone is interested in what real

tax reform looks like, I suggest reading “A Fine Mess” by T.R. Reid. I have sent copies to Warner, Comstock and Tim Kaine. Lance Hackett McLean

Editor: Despite efforts in Congress, Gravelly Point should absolutely retain its name of over 250 years, due to its significance to region and the nation. In 1790, when it mandated that the national capital be located on the “river Potomack, at some place between the mouths of the Eastern-Branch [Anacos-

tia River] and Connogochegue [a creek in western Maryland],” Congress gave new President George Washington the authority to select the specific site. A major regional landowner long knowledgeable about the river, Washington identified Gravelly Point by name as one of the geographical reference points for the positioning of the 100-square-

mile capital. Regardless of the merits (or not) of honoring a 20th-century First Lady, today’s Congress should not weaken meaningful historical connections by removing it the rightful name of Gravelly Point. Andy McLeod Arlington

Opponents of Comstock Vote Lacking in Consistency

Congress Shouldn’t Change Name of Gravelly Point

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Applicant Withdraws Accessory-Dwelling Proposal BRIAN TROMPETER Staff Writer

An applicant withdrawn a request to Fairfax County for permission to attach an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to a home at 8501 Brook Road in McLean, but some neighboring residents worry a group home may occupy the house anyway. Representatives of the Ruth Williams Brinkley Living Trust applied to the county government to build a 1,070square-foot accessory living quarters on the rear left wing of a 5,750-square-foot home, currently under construction. The accessory dwelling would have had two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a den, full kitchen and laundry area. The applicant’s representatives said Brinkley would live in the accessory dwelling upon retiring and her daughter and her family would live in the main house, which would have four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a full kitchen, two-car garage and basement. Following much testimony from neighbors at a Jan. 31 public hearing, the county’s Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) deferred decision on the matter until Feb. 14 so county staff could verify the standards under which the property would qualify as the owner’s primary residence. Opponents of the application said the owner, Ruth Brinkley, who last October

was named president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals of the Northwest, likely would not be residing long enough at the McLean house to qualify for primary-residence status. They cited an article from a publication in Portland, Ore., in which Brinkley said she looked forward to living in that city. The BZA on Feb. 14 voted to defer decision again until March 7 to give county staff more time to review the application. “I don’t understand this any better than I did a month ago,” said BZA member James Hart. “In fairness, even if the case is a mess, we ought to let it play out.” The applicant subsequently withdrew the request for the accessory dwelling. No representatives of the applicant spoke at the Feb. 14 hearing, although neighbors said Brinkley’s daughter was in the audience. BZA members at the meeting zeroed in on county staff for more specific information about the application. “The floor plan of the primary residence appears to be a plan to turn it into an assisted-living facility,” said BZA member Sharon Theodore. Brent Krasner, chief of the Special Permit and Variance Branch of the county’s Department of Planning and Zoning, said assisted-living uses were not allowed in that residential zone without special

permission. Krasner later told the Sun Gazette that at no point throughout the application’s course had there been any mention of the possibility of a group home or assistedliving facility at the site. “It seems like there was some information that got spread and grew,” he said. “This was nothing more than a straightforward application for an ADU. This thing kind of took on a life of its own.” Critics of the application said while the applicant had applied for a house and accessory unit with six bedrooms and six bathrooms overall, the actual total was eight of both. While the main home’s

rooms were handicapped-accessible, the accessory dwelling’s were not – unusual, given that a retiree was supposed to live there, said neighbor Jamie Parise. The house also has 13 exterior doors and an expensive sprinkler system, possibly indicating a more intensive use that a typical residence, critics said. Krasner said sprinkler systems were unusual in residential homes, but sometimes have been installed, especially in larger houses. The applicant has withdrawn the dwelling request and so will not be bound to any additional development condiContinued on Page 14

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McLean Attorney Is Tapped to Lead U.S. Golf Assn. BRIAN TROMPETER Staff Writer

Golf is an economic juggernaut in the United States, and McLean resident Mark Newell is at the forefront of shaping the sport’s future. The recently elected president of the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) has played golf since high school ,and became “addicted” to the game in his late 30s. “For me, the most fun was the combination of getting outdoors for a few hours in an activity that really allows your mind to leave everything behind,” he said. “It’s about the challenge and frustration of hitting that little ball, but also being out there with friends.” Newell said he plans to help the USGA pursue its goals to improve the pace of play, modernize the game’s rules, standardize its handicap system around the globe and ensure golf facilities are environmentally and economically viable. According to the association, which was founded in 1894, golf generates about $176 billion worth of economic activity annually in the United States and employs approximately 2 million people. Part of USGA’s mission is to make the public aware of career potential in the industry, Newell said. Newell has worked with the USGA for eight years and is in his sixth as a member of its 15-member executive committee. He

was the association’s general counsel from 2011 to 2012 and its treasurer from 2014 to 2015. His term as president will run for one year, but the association at its annual meeting has the option of granting him a second term. The executive committee, which he now chairs as president, helps set the association’s overall strategic direction and gives support, oversight and guidance to the organization’s day-to-day management team, Newell said. The committee every four years gives final approval to changes in the rules of golf, and in March 2017 published a new draft of rules in order to receive feedback. Committee leaders in coming weeks will announce the final set of regulations, which will take effect in 2019. “We decided the rules were fairly complicated and there were a lot of things people didn’t understand, a lot of nuances, distinctions and exceptions that produced outcomes that didn’t seem right to many,” he said. “We decided to go back to basics and write our set of rules from scratch.” The association remains committed to hosting top-quality golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Senior Open, plus amateur championships, Newell said. The USGA’s inaugural U.S. Senior Women’s Open will be held in July at Chicago Golf Club in

Mark Newell

Wheaton, Ill. Another USGA initiative is to hammer out a worldwide handicap standard, which in 2020 would replace six currently in use. USGA officials also are examining ways, from adjusting the space between tee times to reducing the size of golf courses, that might speed up the pace of play. “In today’s world, time is more precious than money,” said Newell, noting that nine-hole outings are becoming more popular. “It takes several hours out of a day to play 18 holes on courses that have been getting longer and longer over many decades. It puts real pressure on how many people are going to play and how often they play.” The USGA for nearly a century has had a research arm that studies everything

from new turf grasses and best maintenance practices to water conservation, he said. Golf courses nationwide have substantially reduced their use of water and pesticides, but more can be done, Newell said. One recent trend has been allowing some parts of courses to remain in their natural state. The association also is encouraging a more diverse swath of people, especially women, to play golf, he said. Newell earned a bachelor’s degree from Albion College in 1977, then went to Harvard University, where in 1981 he received a master’s of public policy from its John F. Kennedy School of Government and a degree from Harvard Law School. He edited and was treasurer of Harvard Law Review. Before beginning his legal career with Latham & Watkins LLP, from which he has retired, Newell clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Lewis Powell. “It was certainly one of the great experiences of my life,” he said. “Justice Powell was one of the most remarkable and great persons I’ve ever known.” In his youth, Newell was an ardent fan of champion golfer Jack Nicklaus. As a player, his favorite course is Cypress Point in Pebble Beach, Calif. “It’s obviously an iconic course of phenomenal beauty, especially when you get out to those last holes, crashing over the ocean,” he said.

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February 22, 2018 9

Obituary ELYETTE JEAN-MARIE NINETTE BROCHOT CONEIN

Elyette Jean-Marie Ninette Brochot Conein, ageless, departed this life on Sunday, February 11, 2018, after a brief illness. She spent her final weeks, as she wished, in her own home, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Elyette was born to Marie B. Bordet and Joseph J. Brochot on September 4, 1929 in the City of Vinh in central Vietnam. There, she was a witness to many horrors of the Japanese occupation of Vietnam during World War II, as well as the French Indochina Wars and the the American War in Vietnam. Despite this, Elyette always maintained a positive attitude for life.

Boy Scouts Aim Effort at Saving Butterflies

Her smile, laugh, and energy were contagious. She loved people no matter who they were and would make you feel at ease and special. Through her boundless compassion, she quietly saved many lives -- from drowning, slavery, suicide, abuse, and destitution. In line with her everlasting, energetic spirit, Elyette focused on becoming an Olympic diver in her youth. Unable to represent Vietnam due to financial restraints on part of the delegation, Elyette and her best friend decided to perform across Europe. The manager of a famed seaside hotel in Monaco begged her and her friend to stay and entertain the poolside guests with their beautiful and classic dives. During the mid-1950s in Vietnam, Elyette met her future husband, Lucien E. Conein (b.1919 - d.1998), a member of the infamous inaugural group of the OSS, and one of the last legendary Cold War spies. They settled in Mclean, Virginia, where Elyette started a successful career in real estate with Long and Foster. From the 1970s to the 1990s, Elyette hosted many notorious and notable parties; a charismatic socialite and noted matchmaker, she entertained Congressmen, ambassadors, authors, generals, and even the head of the CIA. She loved to play Motown and rock and roll music, anything that would incite her guests to dance, celebrate and enjoy life. Elyette’ s house was more than the center of fabled parties. She was a generous soul who boasted a “revolving-door” policy, opening her arms and home to anyone who needed comfort. She loved her pets, and alongside the neighborhood children, she housed dogs, cats, parrots, turtles, snakes, and hamsters. Many of her pets were characters that became local lore. Elyette leaves behind an extended family, including her only brother, Didier Brochot, and his wife and children. She also leaves her children: Laurent P. Conein; Philippe J. Conein and his wife Philise Conein, and her grandson Quinn Conein of Richmond, Virginia; her daughter, Caroline (Conein) Wilson and husband David Wilson, and her granddaughters, Shayna and Natalie Wilson of Vienna, Virginia. She also leaves behind her partner of nearly 15 years, Patrick Smaldore, of Mclean, Virginia, who graciously ensured her life was full and joyous up until the very end. She loved all of Lou’s children, including Bernard Conein; Cecil Mashburn and his sons; Serge Conein and his extended family; and Charles “Chip” Conein and his children. With her passing she leaves many memories of her extraordinary grace, elegance and style. She fabulously and famously dressed every day as if she was going to meet the Queen of England. She memorably claimed, “smile and the world will smile back.”

The heavens have received another star to brightly dazzle the sky. She will be terribly missed by all whose lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in the memory of Elyette B. Conein to The National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 S Seton Ave, Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727. Family will receive friends and family at a visitation on February 24 2018, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., at Money & King Funeral Home located atflat 171 bMaple Ave W, Vienna, Virginia4:41 22180. HBM AD 12-4-2017.pdf 1 12/4/17 PM

Boy Scouts from across the region are participating in a large-scale conservation effort to protect the monarch butterfly, whose numbers have fallen dramatically in the past two decades. The effort, kicking off this month, is sponsored by the National Capital Area Council Boy Scouts of America. “The young people in our council know that conservation is both a strong tradition and a serious duty in Scouting,” said Les Baron, executive of the regional council. “They’ve responded so enthusiastically to this call to help save an important but fragile and highly endangered treasure.” As part of the initiative, Scouts will plant and protect strands of milkweed, which provides the only food that monarch caterpillars will eat. “Unfortunately, that essential milkweed has been disappearing across the country,” Baron said. “We want to help change that.” For information on the initiative, see the Web site at www.ncacbsa.org/monarchs.

Local Dance Troupe Sets Performances

Bowen McCauley Dance returns to the Terrace Theater at the Kennedy Center with “Une Soirée de Danse,” which features a world-premiere of two new commissioned pieces on Friday and Saturday, March 2-3, at 7:30 p.m. The troupe will honor the legacy of the late Eric Hampton, choreographer of the Maryland Youth Ballet, at the performances, presenting a restaging of his work “Unravel” to go with several other pieces that combine music and dance. Tickets are $40-$50. For tickets, see the Web site at www.kennedycenter.org. For information, see the Web site at www.bmdc.org.

CMY

February 22, 2018

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McLean/Great Falls Notes MCA FORUM TO FEATURE SUPERINTENDENT: The McLean Citizens Asso-

ciation will host Fairfax County Superintendent Scott Brabrand at a program slated for Monday, Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. at Franklin Sherman Elementary School. Brabrand will provide remarks on his priorities and on the challenges facing the school system, and will take audience questions. The community is invited. MCA TO HOST FORUM ON BUDGET:

The McLean Citizens Association will host a community forum on the proposed 2019 Fairfax County government budget on Monday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. at McLean High school. At the event, Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) will be joined by several top Fairfax County officials. The community is invited. COMMUNITY FORUM SLATED ON RESTRIPING PROPOSALS: The Virginia

Department of Transportation and Fairfax County Department of Transportation will hold a community meeting to discuss planned paving and restriping efforts in the Dranesville magisterial district on Thursday, Feb. 22 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Franklin Sherman Elementary School. The event will feature an open-house format, with a presentation at 7:15 p.m. For information on the plans, see

the Web site at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ transportation/2018-paving-and-restriping. Written comments will be accepted through March 9. MCC GOVERNING BOARD TO MEET:

The McLean Community Center Governing Board will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the center’s administrative offices, 6631 Old Dominion Drive. The community is invited. Anyone who wishes to speak during the citizen-comment portion of the meeting should call the center at (703) 790-0123 to be placed on the agenda. LOCAL CHURCH TO HOST VATICAN EXHIBITION: St. John the Beloved Cath-

olic Church will host the Vatican international exhibition “Eucharistic Miracles of the World” from March 2-4 at the parish, located at Linway Terrace in McLean. The exhibition consists of illustrations and detailed descriptions (in English and Spanish) of more than 130 Eucharistic miracles from across the world dating back to the 900s. Exhibition hours are Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

McLEAN AAUW FORUM TO FOCUS ON MOUNT VERNON: The McLean area

branch of the American Association of University Women will hold its monthly

meeting on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 10 a.m. at the McLean Community Center’s temporary headquarters space, 6645 Old Dominion Drive. The event will feature Rebecca Baird, archivist for the Mount Vernon Ladies Association, discussing the history of Mount Vernon. The community is invited. TYSONS-PIMMIT REGIONAL LIBRARY TO HOST BOOK SALE: Friends of Ty-

sons-Pimmit Regional Library will host a book sale from March 2-4 at the library, 7584 Leesburg Pike. A large selection of items for all ages will be on sale. Sale hours are Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. For information, call (703) 790-4031 or e-mail tysonslibraryfriends@gmail.com. HOME-SALES SEMINAR SLATED: “Se-

crets of a Savvy Seller,” a home-seller seminary presented by Kathy Shea, Lindene Patton and Lynn Toloczo of Weichert Realtors, will be held on Sunday, March 4 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Weichert office at 731-A Walker Road in Great Falls. The program will include presentations by a home inspector, professional stager, appraiser, photographer and more. The community is invited. To R.S.V.P. by March 1, e-mail ltoloczko@weichert.

com. PET-PORTRAITIST TO SHOWCASE WORK IN PRESENTATION: Pet-portrait

artist Glen Kessler will be the featured demonstrator at the monthly meeting of the McLean Art Society, to be held Friday, Feb. 23 from 9 a.m. to noon at Dolley Madison Library. Kessler’s artwork is collected internationally; among his awards is the Elizabeth Greenshields Grant for outstanding figure-work. The community is invited.

‘ASTRONOMY NIGHT’ SLATED FOR RIVERBEND PARK: Riverbend Park will

host an “Astronomy Night” gathering on Saturday, Feb. 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the park, located at 8700 Potomac Hills Street in Great Falls. Participants will explore various astronomy topics while ending the event by roasting marshmallows around a campfire. The cost is $10. For information, call (703) 759-9018.

COLVIN RUN MILL TO SPOTLIGHT MAPLE SYRUP: Colvin Run Mill will host a

maple-syrup boildown on Sunday, Feb. 25 from noon to 2 p.m. at the mill, 10017 Colvin Run Road in Great Falls. The cost is $5. For information, call (703) 759-2771.

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February 22, 2018 11

Foust: County Committed to Higher Teacher Pay BRIAN TROMPETER Staff Writer

From welcoming a new county executive and trying to recruit one of the world’s biggest companies to preparing for budget season and pressing for workplace improvements in the county’s Fire and Rescue Department, the Board of Supervisors has its hands full. Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) gave the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce a wide-ranging rundown of myriad county initiatives Feb. 8 during his annual “State of McLean” speech. • Supervisors Hope New County Executive Will Take New Direction: The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors selected Bryan Hill, who assumed his new post Jan. 2, to succeed retired County Executive Edward Long Jr. While Long and his predecessor, Anthony Griffin, capably guided the county government through a severe economic recession and federal budget-sequestration cuts, supervisors were looking for an outside perspective to guide the county into the future, Foust said. “The board decided maybe we needed a little fresh thinking,” he said. Hill formerly was administrator of James City County, a much smaller jurisdiction, but compiled a strong record of successes, Foust said. “I’m expecting things incrementally to change, but to change,” he said. “He’s going to take a different approach to a lot of

issues. I think that’s a good thing.” • Police Accountability Improving, Fire Department in Turmoil: Foust was upbeat about progress in transparency with the county’s police department, where officials are implementing nearly all of the 202 recommendations proffered by a task force convened after fatal police shooting of Kingstowne resident John Geer in August 2013. (Police still are holding out for the right for officers to use the “precision immobilization technique” with their cruisers to stop vehicles in pursuits.) The supervisor expressed concern about the work environment at the county’s Fire and Rescue Department, one of whose female firefighters, Nicole Mittendorff, committed suicide in April 2016 over what she said was online bullying. The department subsequently nominated Battalion Chief Kathleen Stanley to oversee efforts to combat harassment against female employees, but she recently resigned, saying senior leadership “does not accept there is a culture problem.” “We recently had an update and the board was not satisfied with the progress that is being made,” Foust said. County Executive Hill will conduct an investigation “and let the chips fall where they may,” Foust said. “No one is satisfied with even the possible existence of discrimination or harassment in the [fire] stations.” Responding to a question from McLean resident Judith Mueller, Foust

John Foust

also touched on the fatal shooting of 25year-old McLean resident Bijan Ghaisar by U.S. Park Police officers last November following a fender-bender and pursuit on the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Mount Vernon. No one knows why Ghaisar repeatedly pulled away from officers after stopping his vehicle, “but it’s certainly not a reason to kill someone,” Foust said. The supervisor praised county Police Chief Edwin Roessler Jr. for releasing an in-car video of the shooting by a county police officer who was backing up the Park Police in the chase. “I’ve watched it and it is unbelievable,” Foust said. “It’s hard to imagine what these guys were thinking when they pulled the trigger. The FBI and Park Police have not released any information. We have re-

leased everything we have.” • Fiscal Year 2019 Budget to Address Teacher Pay: County officials last November presented supervisors with a projected $100 million shortfall between the county’s school transfer and the school system’s needs. While those conservative estimates usually look rosier when budget negotiations begin in the spring, Foust said it was crucial to bring teachers’ pay into line with market norms. “For years, we got anecdotal data that we were losing teachers and not paying them enough,” he said. “Finally, the schools did a study, and it was shocking. We were so far below the market in the middle years, like 10 to 20 years as a teacher. It just proved what people felt, but never demonstrated.” County Executive Hill will present his proposed fiscal 2019 budget to supervisors Feb. 20. • County Keen on Reeling in Amazon. com: Fairfax County officials are in the mix trying to lure Amazon.com to build its second headquarters, dubbed HQ2, in the county. If the effort proves successful, the company would bring about 50,000 jobs to the county. “It would be a game-changer,” Foust said. Amazon is trying to keep the bidding process confidential. Foust said the county has suggested the company locate its headquarters on the Center for Innovative Technology property in Herndon, which is in Foust’s district.

Projection: N.Va. Real Estate Market Will Have Solid ‘18 A Staff Report

There are plenty of variables in play and potential hiccups along the way, but an analysis of the Northern Virginia real estate market anticipates both sales and prices to continue moving upward through 2018. Year-over-year sales in 2018 are anticipated to rise 3.5 percent in Alexandria, 2 percent in Arlington and 1.7 percent in Fairfax County, according to projections in a market forecast released by the

Northern Virginia Association of Realtors (NVAR) and George Mason University. “We fully expect that real estate in Northern Virginia will continue to show strong metrics, remain stable and provide long-range equity for serious home-buyers,” said Ryan Conrad, CEO of NVAR, even as he acknowledged potential headwinds, including rising interest rates, changes in federal tax law and federal budget cuts. “We are not minimizing that the rising

interest rates are inevitable to help combat inflation,” he said. “However, housing markets nationwide have been thriving, just as we have been in Northern Virginia.” “All of the business growth reported locally and nationally bodes well,” said Lorraine Arora, NVAR’s chair and a managing broker with Weichert, Realtors in Fairfax. The NVAR/Mason projections also anticipate rising median sales prices for the year, growing 5.1 percent in Arlington,

3.7 percent in Alexandria and 3.1 percent in Fairfax County. Inventory is expected to remain below historic norms in all three jurisdictions, which will put upward pressure on prices and may prompt prospective purchasers to act sooner rather than later. Any growth in 2018 in the local market will follow up on a solid year in 2017. The Northern Virginia Association of Realtors reported 22,555 transactions totaling $13.1 billion last year, the highest since 2005.

Fairfax Homes Market Has Mellow Start to the New Year It’s one of the slowest months of the year for the local real estate market anyway, and January’s sales totals for Fairfax County reflected the sluggishness. A total of 786 properties went to closing during the month, down 1 percent from the 794 that changed hands in January 2017, according to figures reported Feb. 12 by RealEstate Business Intelligence, based on data from Bright MLS. The average sales price was a little more peppy, with the overall average of $560,919 up 2.8 percent, buoyed the average price for single-family homes rising 9.5 percent to $799,662. The other segments of the market were less robust: The average sales price of at12

February 22, 2018

tached homes, such as townhouses, was up 0.1 percent to $364,275, while the average price for condominiums declined 1.7 percent to $285,366. A total of 54 properties changed hands for more than $1 million during the month. Total sales volume for January stood at $440.9 million, up 1.7 percent from $433.3 million a year before. Homes that went to closing in January spent an average of 61 days between listing and ratified sales price, an improvement from the 70 days required for homes that sold a year before, and garnered 96.9 percent of original listing price, up from 96.7 percent.

Conventional mortgages represented the method of transacting sales in 498, followed by cash (122) and VA-backed loans (80). At the end of the month, there were 1,515 properties on the market, a decline of 23.4 percent from 1,977 in what, traditionally, is one of the most dormant periods of the local real estate market. Where is the market headed as it transitions into spring? The situation seems spotty, with year-over-year pending sales down but homes coming under contract up for the month. Inner Core Sees Slight Decline in Sales Volume: Slightly rising average homesales prices couldn’t offset a decline in

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total sales, and as a result, overall dollar volume in the District of Columbia and its inner core was down slightly in January from a year before, according to new data. A total of 2,974 properties went to closing during the month, according to figures reported Feb. 12 by RealEstate Business Intelligence, based on data from Bright MLS, down 1.3 percent from 3,014 sales a year before. (Figures represent sales in the District of Columbia; Arlington and Fairfax counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church in Virginia; and Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland.)

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Budget Continued from Page 1

Assessments Continued from Page 1 year-over-year assessment increase, ranging from 0.8 percent in Clifton to 3.4 percent in Annandale. In the Sun Gazette coverage area, average residential real-estate assessments stood at $1,038,630 in Great Falls, an increase of 1.4 percent; $908,497 in McLean, an increase of 1.8 percent; $710,459 in Vienna, an increase of 1.5 percent; and $685,639 in Oakton, an increase of 0.9 percent.

EHO

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753. Email: fairhousing@dpor. virginia.gov. Web site: www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

The Sun Gazette welcomes your submission of items for inclusion in print and online. We’re happy to assist! 14

February 22, 2018

The total assessed value of non-residential property – ranging from office buildings to hotels – rose about 3.8 percent from a year before. All told, there are about 354,000 taxable parcels in the county. Full information can be found at www.fairfaxcounty. gov/taxes/real-estate/understanding-realestate-assessments. Assessments represent one-half of the equation in determining a parcel’s 2018 real-estate tax bill. Members of the Board of Supervisors will determine the other side – the tax rate – in the spring. Taxes are due in equal installments payable by July 28 and Dec. 5.

Crandall Continued from Page 4 the environment were unmatched.” Crandall cared deeply about McLean, Fairfax County and the country, said Sally Horn, who co-chairs MCA’s Tysons Committee. “He selflessly volunteered his time, energy and knowledge to make them better,

Withdrawn Continued from Page 7 tions, Krasner said. Because the accessory unit cannot have a fully functioning kitchen, the applicant may have to modify the house’s plans, he said. County officials

Hill has proposed a county real-estate tax rate of $1.155 per $100 assessed valuation, a 2.5-cent boost over the current rate. If adopted, the increase would result in a tax bill $268 higher for the average homeowner. If not adopted, the school system would receive about $28 million less, Hill said. Under the budget, county employees would receive 2.25-percent market-rate pay increases, plus 2-percent step increases for eligible workers. Raises would total 4.25 percent for most county employees and 4.5 percent for public-safety workers. The county’s payroll would increase by 77 employees, some of whom would staff the new South County police station. Supervisors will have a budget balance of about $3.9 million to allot at their discretion, Hill said. Hill warned that weak revenue increases mean upcoming fiscal years would be more challenging and likely not capable of supporting compensation increases as generous as those in fiscal 2019. And the county government may get pushback from homeowners who are seeing assessments rising, which would hit them with a bigger tax increase. “Going forward, we must begin to manage our expectations into the future,” he said. “We need to make difficult decisions and identify funding opportunities . . . Strategic thinking is a must to maintain our competitive edge in the region.” Supervisors on March 6 will advertise a real estate tax rate for budget discussions and eventually may adopt a rate that’s lower or equal to, but not higher than the advertised one. The board will hold budget hearings April 10 through 12 and adopt the budget May 1. Fiscal 2019 will begin July 1. As they do every year, supervisors and the county executive decried insufficient state funding. Fairfax County has

‘Going forward, we must begin to manage our expectations into the future. We need to make difficult decisions.’

– County Executive Bryan Hill

about 14 percent of Virginia’s population and pays roughly 24 percent of its income-tax revenues, but gets back only 23 cents for every dollar it sends to Richmond, Hill said. “This is a budget that invests in people and that’s the single most important thing we can do,” said Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee). Supervisor Patrick Herrity (RSpringfield) lamented what he said was the county’s lack of progress on pension reform. “Every year we put it off, it gets harder,” he said. Hill’s proposed real estate tax increase, combined with a hike in the stormwater-tax rate, would boost the average payment of homeowners by more than 5 percent. “That’s a 26-percent increase over last five years, and wages are stagnant,” Herrity said. Hill said he would work with supervisors and the School Board on the budget and try to find more efficiencies. “We are one community and we all need to be on the same page,” he said.

not only for us today but for generations to come,” she said. “He will be sorely missed.” Robert Jackson, the Tysons Committee’s other co-chair, said Crandall was a committed conservationist who pressed Fairfax County officials to live up to their stated environmental objectives. “While Frank did not suffer fools, he was respectful of differing opinions on environmental issues,” Jackson said. “His resolutions for the MCA board on Parks,

Environment and Recreation committee matters were always fact-filled and datadriven, rather than ideological.” The Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce in 2016 honored Crandall with its Environmental Stewardship Award. His spouse of nearly 60 years, Joyce Crandall, died in 2013. He is survived by his two children, Richard Crandall and Kathryn Crandall, and her two children, Shyla and Russell. No memorial service is planned, his daughter said.

will ensure the applicant meets all requirements, he added. “They haven’t received their residential-use permit,” Krasner said. “All that will need to be satisfied. There will be a lot of inspections and checks.” The federal Fair Housing Act permits group homes by-right in residential areas, and these may accommodate up to eight

residents and caretakers, said Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville). County officials cannot limit the number of group homes in a neighborhood, and such homes sometimes cluster in certain areas, to residents’ consternation, he said. “The only complaints I get are about the concentration [of group homes],” Foust said. “That frustrates people.”

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Vienna/Oakton Notes HUDGINS TO PRESIDE OVER BUDGET FORUMS: Supervisor Catherine Hudgins

(D-Hunter Mill) has slated two upcoming community town-hall meetings on the proposed fiscal 2019 Fairfax County budget. County staff, including new County Executive Brian Hill, and staff from Fairfax County Public Schools will join Hudgins at the forums to be held on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 9 a.m. at James Madison High School and on Thursday, March 8 at 7 p.m. at South Lakes High School. In addition, Department of Tax Administration staff will be available to provide one-on-one consultation to senior and disabled residents on tax-relief opportunities during the town-hall hours. For information on the meetings, call (703) 478-0283 or e-mail huntermill@ fairfaxcounty.gov.

VIENNA AGAIN TO HOST ‘SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE’: The Vienna town

government’s Community Enhancement Commission again in 2018 is challenging local businesses and nonprofits to adopt green practices and self-certify as “sustainable” based on points earned. The Vienna Sustainability Challenge, now in its second year, provides a checklist of green actions or practices through which businesses can tally points toward the goal of being sustainable. Seven Vienna businesses were recognized last year for earning enough points to be certified. Sustainable actions are classified under energy, water, procurement, transportation and waste-reduction categories. Strategies include simple actions, such as cleaning with green products or using rain water to water plants, as well as deeper commitments, like installing EPA WaterSense toilets in bathrooms, instituting telework policies or establishing waste-reduction goals. Points are awarded for sustainable action employed throughout the calendar year. Applications are due by Aug. 1; businesses that are certified will be recognized at a Town Council meeting in the fall. For details, see the Web site at www. viennava.gov/sustainabilitychallenge. VIENNA TO RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS: The Vienna town govern-

ment has put out a call for the nomination of individuals and businesses making the town a better place to live through community involvement. Nominations for individuals are due by March 3. Award recipients will be recognized at the annual Mayor’s Volunteer Reception on April 17. Nominations for individuals are accepted through www.viennava.gov/volunteers. Nominations for the Carole Wolfand Award, presented to a business by the Town/Business Liaison Committee, will be accepted through March 7. To make a nomination, e-mail Adam Kincaid at adam.kincaid@viennava.gov with “Carole Wolfand nomination” in the subject

line. GARDEN CLUB TO FOCUS ON ROSES:

The Ayr Hill Garden Club will meet on Monday, Feb. 26 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 2589 Chain Bridge Road in Vienna. The 1 p.m. program will feature Pam Powers, a consulting rosarian and president of the Arlington Rose Foundation, discussing “How to Choose and Prune Roses.” The community is invited. For information, see the Web site at www.facebook. com/ayrhillgardenclub/. FIRE-DEPARTMENT AUXILIARY TO HOST SCRAPBOOKING WEEKEND: The

Vienna Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary is planning for a scrapbooking weekend to be held Friday and Saturday, Feb. 23-24, at the station, 400 Center St., S. The event includes cropping space, lunch on Saturday, other refreshments, a goody bag and door prices. A homemade dinner will be available for purchase both nights. The cost is $55 if registered by Feb. 10, $60 after that date and (if space is available) $70 at the door. For information, call (703) 981-4504 or e-mail lisaemerson3@verizon.net. Your submissions are invited. Find contact information on Page 6.

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Real Estate Featured Property of the Week

Enjoy Verdant Luxury in Vienna!

22182 Property Offers a Park-Like, Spa-Inspired Opportunity

Spring is just around the corner, and this week’s featured property offers the opportunity to own a 2.25-acre piece of verdant luxury in Vienna, where the glorious home is augmented by an exceptional amount of enjoyable exterior space – adding up to a delightful spot for living and entertaining. The amenities make it feel like you are living in a spa-inspired resort, while the home itself – a large and lovely 1970s-era ranch – offers expansive formal spaces that are a testament to elegance. And there are updates galore. The property currently is on the market, listed at $1,399,000 by Joan Stansfield of Keller Williams Realty. The classic lines of the main house serve both as an invitation to stop by and enticement to see what lies inside. The mood is set as you drive up to this private home via an iron gate and curving driveway. And with nearly 4,900 square feet of interior space, there is plenty to explore across three levels – and rest assured, traffic flow is spectacular, so even a crowd can be managed easily After a welcome on the sophisticated front porch (with columns), we are ushered inside to begin an exploration that includes large formal rooms, a sumptuous kitchen area, a rustic Great Room

living up to the name with multiple access points to the outdoors, and two bedroom retreats, including one with a two-sided fireplace leading to its private sunroom area. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms provide multiple opportunities, while the downstairs features a versatile recreation room plus a home office. Were this the end of our tour, it would be outstanding. But wait: We still have the magnificent rear yard, with the synthetic deck; extensive hardscaping; stone walls; a saltwater hot tub; and exterior stone fireplace, Perfect for entertaining throughout the year, the centerpiece attraction is a 200-year-old oak. A standout in all respects, this is a perfect way to welcome springtime.

Articles are prepared by the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients. For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on having a house reviewed, contact the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department at (703)738-2521.

Facts for buyers Address: 1500 Windstone Drive, Vienna (22182). Listed at: $1,399,000 by Joan Stansfield, Keller Williams Realty (703) 505-3898. Schools: Westbriar Elementary, Kilmer Middle, George C. Marshall High School.

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Survey Says: Most Renters Still Want to Buy Homes Despite weakening optimism from non-homeowners at the end of last year that now is a good time to buy, an overwhelming majority said they do want to own a home in the future and believe homeownership is part of their American Dream. So says new data from the National Association of Realtors, which additionally found that non-homeowners’ lifestyle changes and improvements in their financial situation outweigh seeing their rent increase as the main motivators for deciding to buy a home. NAR’s Aspiring Home Buyers Profile analyzed 2017 quarterly consumer insights from its Housing Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) survey to capture the housing expectations and sentiment of non-homeowners – both renters and those living with a family member. When asked for the primary reason non-homeowners currently do not own, an increasing share of them over the past year said it was because they are unable to afford it. The swift price growth and painfully low supply levels in much of the country in 2017 also appeared to have dealt a blow to the confidence among non-owners that now is a good time to buy. After reaching a high of 62 percent in the third quarter, the share of non-owners who believed now is a good time to buy slipped to 58 percent at the end of the year. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, says severe inventory shortages are making homebuying less affordable and are dimming optimism among many renters who desire to be homeowners. “A tug-of-war continues to take place in many markets throughout the country, where consistently solid job creation is fueling demand, but the lack of supply is creating affordability constraints that are ultimately pulling aspiring buyers further away from owning,” he said. Even with the dip in morale about buying over the past year, respondents’ views about home-ownership are still overwhelmingly positive. Roughly three-quarters of non-owners each quarter said that they eventually want to own a home and also believe that owning a home is part of their American Dream.

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Budget-Friendly Approaches to Camp American Camp Association Camp is a life-changing experience – one that’s possible for every child and every budget. Even though the experience is priceless, paying for it doesn’t have to be. “I’m a great believer that you don’t have to go to the most expensive camp to have a great camp experience,” said Phil Lilienthal, former camp director of Camp Winnebago in Maine and Global Camps Africa CEO. “If you’re dealing with an experienced and caring staff of camp counselors, you can have a program in a parking lot, and it can be great.”

Parents looking for budget-friendly camps should keep the following in mind: • The ACA camp community generates a projected $216 million annually for camp scholarships. Don’t be afraid to call the camp director and ask if financial assistance is available. • Contact your area’s local office of the American Camp Association. Visit www. ACAcamps.org/about/contactus to find your local office contact. • Check with your church or synagogue. • Get in touch with social-services groups in your community.

• Visit individual camp Web sites. Most clearly outline whether or not they offer financial assistance for their campers. Assistance is also available from the government. Families should explore the following options: • Parents should inquire into whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs, for instance through Title XX. For day camps: • A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account allows parents to be reimbursed on a pre-tax basis for child care or adult dependent care expenses for qualified

Congressional Camp

dependents that are necessary to allow parents to work, look for work, or to attend school full time. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information. • In certain circumstances, day care expenses, including transportation by a care provider, may be considered dependent care services and paid with pre-tax dollars. Visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Web site for more information. • Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: The IRS allows an income tax credit of up to $6,000 of dependent care expenses if you have two or more dependents (up to $3,000 for one dependent). The amount of the credit is based on your adjusted gross income and applies only to your federal taxes. This applies to qualifying day camp expenses. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information. Originally published in the March 2014 Camp e-News. Reprinted with permission of the American Camp Association. © American Camping Association, Inc.

The 4-1-1 on camping Camp has been an American tradition for more than 150 years. Some things at camp – forming friendships, having fun, practicing new skills, and summer learning gains – will never change. But what are the camp trends today? Who goes to camp? ACA estimates that there are 12,000 traditional, organized camps in the U.S. Each year more than 11.5 million children, youth, and adults attend camp. Today we see a wide range of ages participating in the camp experience: from children as young as three participating in day camp programs to senior adults, participating in family camps and senior camps. The American Camp Association (ACA) has a vision that by the year 2020, over 20 million children and youth will have a camp experience each year.

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What camps are most popular? Traditional camps are still very popular – maybe more popular today than even a decade ago, as young people are very concerned about the environment, global awareness, mentorship, and getting along with one another. The camp community embraces those values. There has also been a rise in the popularity of specialty camps, day camps, and family camps, as camps constantly adapt to meet changing needs of families. Many young people like to use the camp experience to sharpen a special skill or develop new ones. Even traditional camps are offering year-round camp experiences, as well as any number of specialty programs.

A DIVISION OF

www.congocamp.org

* See Page 4 214522_Congressional_Camp_7x10.indd 1

12/15/17 2:23 PM

SUN GAZETTE 2018 CAMP GUIDE

FEBRUARY 2018

Camps Have Benefits American Camp Association Camp has become a part of the fabric of America – conjuring special memories of hiking, swimming, friendships, and adventure for generations. When children go to camp, they’ll likely come home gushing about the lifelong friends they’ve made, and the exciting adventures they had. What they probably won’t tell you about are the life lessons camp has given them – those skills that, if nurtured at home after camp, translate into a lasting self-confidence, an awareness of the importance of kindness, and a greater comfort in voicing their opinions. For more than 150 years, camp has been changing lives – allowing all children to feel successful, especially those who may struggle with traditional educational settings. Camp is full of fun and excitement, but it is so much more – developing children who are better equipped to lead in the twentyfirst century with skills such as independence, empathy, the ability to work as part of a team, and a broader world view. • Camp is a safe and nurturing environment that enhances social skills. Camp is for everyone, so children and youth have the opportunity to meet and interact with peers from outside their school environment.

• Camp supplements traditional education. Camps use intentional programming to create a balance of experiential learning opportunities that are physical, emotional, and social. • Camp provides experiences that promote self-confidence and future academic growth. American Camp Association (ACA) independent research shows that parents and camp staff, as well as the campers themselves, report significant growth in several areas, including leadership, independence, social comfort, and values and decisions. • Camp encourages a respect and love of nature. Children are able to learn about the natural world. Camp also gives them a chance to “unplug.” More and more experts are advocating the value of time spent in nature for children – and camp is a perfect place to do that. • Camp provides the opportunity to stay physically active. Camp is the ultimate outdoor experience with programs that offer physical activities and sports that enhance health and teach self-confidence. Camp is a natural extension of the classroom. Camp challenges children, keeps them engaged, develops creativity and their talents, and expands horizons. Reprinted with permission of the American Camp Association. © American Camping Association, Inc.

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SUN GAZETTE 2018 CAMP GUIDE

Take the Time, Select the Right Camp American Camp Association When faced with the daunting prospect of choosing a sleepaway camp for a child, a parent has a lot to consider – especially if it is a first-time camp experience. Misconceptions abound about summer camp and what goes into choosing the best one for each child. What follows is a list of some of the myths about choosing a camp, compiled by the National Camp Association: Myth #1 – For children prone to homesickness, a shorter camp session is best. Fact: In reality, a longer camp stay allows a child to get over any homesickness, make new friends and enjoy the complete camp experience. Once they have done this they feel a

real sense of accomplishment. Myth #2 – If another child liked this camp, then it must be a good one for my child. Fact: Program offerings and philosophies vary from camp to camp. Some are more sports oriented, some more arts-oriented, and some more competitive. Just as no two children are alike, a camp that is a great fit for one child may be a poor choice for another. Myth #3 – The proximity of the camp to my home is what’s most important. Fact: It’s fine if the best camp for the child happens to be close by, but often that’s not the case. It’s better to select the right camp, regardless of location, than a wrong one that’s nearby. In the event of an emergency, parents can’t be at the camp immediately regardless of where it is.

Myth #4 – Specialty Camp vs. General Camp: My child loves baseball, so I’ll send him to a baseball camp for a couple of weeks. Fact: This may be OK if the child has already attended a general camp, is a little older and ready to handle the intensity of a one-activity camp. We recommend a general camp for a child’s first sleepaway experience. General camps are more nurturing and spend time helping children to adjust to being away from home. They also offer children exposure to a variety of activities, which often generates new interests for a child. Specialty camps are there to instruct and provide intensive skill development and (in the case of sports specialty camps) tournament play.

Myth #5 - My child must attend camp with a friend. Fact: This may aid in the process of getting the child to go to camp, but once the children are there, it typically does more harm than good. Friends that go to camp together often stick together, alienating themselves from the group and preventing a very important aspect of camp from taking place: making new friends. Occasionally, the more independent child will begin making friends, leaving the other child feeling abandoned and betrayed, resulting in a strained camp experience – and a broken friendship. Reprinted with permission of the American Camp Association. © American Camping Association, Inc.

The 4-1-1 on finding the right camp for you! * From Page 2 This exciting diversification is an example of how the camp community is meeting the needs of today’s families. What activities are popular? The most popular activities at camps today are swimming, arts/crafts, challenge/

ropes course, archery, and aquatic activities. In addition, ACA research shows 52 percent of day camps and 50 percent of resident camps offered one or more academic / science and technology programs. More than four in five ACA-accredited residential camps offer at least one environmental education program for campers. Whatever the activity, camp gets kids

moving! While at camp, campers are typically active three to five hours per day. This exceeds the recommended daily amount of physical activity from the CDC (one hour per day). With so many options, how do I find the right camp for my situation? There is a camp for every child, every

interest, and every budget! The American Camp Association’s Find a Camp database helps families find the perfect camp experience – whether it’s a traditional, day, specialty, family, or even trip or travel camp. Reprinted with permission of the American Camp Association. © American Camping Association, Inc.

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Schools & Military n Jianming Shi of McLean earned a master of science degree in computer science; Marco Valazquez Ameneyro of Tysons earned a master of science in computer science; Lucy Bullen of McLean earned a bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering; Thomas Board of Vienna earned a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering; and Andrew Bae of Vienna earned a bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering during commencement exercises at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). n Bonnie Atelsek of Vienna has been named to the president’s list for the fall semester at Georgia State University. n Julia Knepper of McLean has been named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Azusa Pacific University. n Isabelle Roddy of Vienna has been named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Seton Hall University. n Paula Jaramillo, the daughter of Jaime Jaramillo-Vallejo of McLean and a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, has been named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Colby College. n

Thi Nguyen of Oakton, Abigail Piro

of Great Falls and Rosemary Moran of Great Falls have been named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Saint Joseph’s University.

Chabeli Yumang, personal essay-memior. The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is a 95-year-old program of the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.

Fairfax County Public Schools students won 22 Gold Key awards in the 2018 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards competition. In all, 112 Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mentions were earned by Fairfax students, representing 22 county middle, high and secondary schools. Gold Key winners from the Sun Gazette coverage area included: – From Langley High School: Madeleine Assad, poetry; Brian Kim, critical essay. – From Longfellow Middle School: Yeonjae Eom, poetry. – From James Madison High School: Justin Hu, critical essay. – From George C. Marshall High School: Emma Choi, flash fiction and poetry. – From McLean High School: Ally Liu, flash fiction. – From Oakton High School: Grace Turner, poetry. – From Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology: Anoushka Chintada, personal essay-memoir; Malavika Pillai, personal essay-memoir; Adithi Ramakrishnan, poetry (two awards); Hikma Redi, personal essay-memoir; and

Two local students received awards in a Japanese New Year’s card contest sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Japanese. Lauren Goetz of Great Falls Elementary School garnered third place in the Original category at the middle-school level and Eliza Young of Cooper Middle School earned third place in the Computer Graphics category at the middle-school level.

n Two Fairfax County crossing guards have been named among the best in Virginia in the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Outstanding Crossing Guard competition. Beeda Lee-Pawlak, who is assigned to Churchill Road and Haycock elementary schools, and Anne Rodriguez, who is assigned to Lake Anne Elementary School and Hughes Middle School, were among six crossing guards statewide to receive the 2018 award. “We received over 150 nominations for 76 different crossing guards throughout the commonwealth,” VDOT officials said in announcing the winners. “We all agreed that these six are truly outstanding, consistently going above and beyond for their

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communities.” Lee-Pawlak, a first-year crossing guard, was praised for expertly managing the busy intersection of Westmoreland Street and Haycock Road. She approaches motorists with a friendly and firm demeanor, resulting in clear communication on how vehicles should operate and minimal traffic backup. Bus drivers understand exactly when to stop and turn without hesitation or confusion. Parents praised her for her diligence, kindness, and control that enable students to arrive at school smiling and ready to learn. Rodriguez is a five-year veteran who expertly manages walkers, carpoolers and buses while making potentially negative and chaotic situations simple to navigate. Every walker and bike rider is greeted with a smile, and many students receive high-fives. She learns the students’ names, as well of those of their siblings and parents. Rodriguez also was praised for being able to make tired, grumpy kids happy again. Fairfax County Public Schools’ crossing guards are employees of the Fairfax County Police Department. The Sun Gazette welcomes your submission of items for inclusion in the Schools & Military section. Find our contact information on Page 6.

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703-938-4200

February 22, 2018

1800 Brookstone Court, Vienna, VA 22182 • $1,200,000 2139 Silentree Drive, Vienna, VA 22182 • $775,000 Rare opportunity in BROOKSIDE WEST! Lovely neighborhood of one acre lots in Vienna. Immaculate Colonial with floor to ceiling windows offering private views of mature trees. Renovated kitchen, refinished woof floors, carpet and paint. Cul de sac location. Just move in!

www.insidenova.com

Renovated Colonial in SILENTREE OF TYSONS. New wood floors on entire main level, new carpet and paint. Eat-in kitchen with granite and stainless steel. Wood burning fireplace in family room. Large deck leads to sprawling, private back yard. Commuter’s dream location!

If you’re buying or selling a home, think of this as a defining moment.

10859 Patowmack Dr, Great Falls $1,649,000 Upgraded and improved in virtually every way! Designer bathrooms…new outdoor living area.

11144 Rich Meadow Dr, Great Falls $1,688,000

All-brick Estate with Great Yard in Fabulous Neighborhood. Best Value in Great Falls.

447 Walker Road, Great Falls

$1,650,000

Stunning details, outdoor Mediterranean terrace and In-Law/Au Pair suite over garage with private terrace.

5 PRIVATE ACRES 9200 Vernon Dr., Great Falls $1,085,000 Stylish updates…and convenient location. Backs to acres of common property.

10714 Milkweed Dr., Great Falls $1,165,000 Striking woodland vistas, hi-end gourmet kitchen. Updated contemporary floorplan.

103 Interpromontory Rd, GF $2,299,000 Perfect blend of modern and traditional style. Five acres that backs to Potomac River.

10913 Belgravia Ct., Great Falls $970,000 New, stylish updates. Convenient location and quiet neighborhood. Deck with serene vistas.

1008 Riva Ridge Dr., Great Falls $949,000 Warm, welcoming and move-in ready. Front and back overlook common area.

COMING SOON 1040 Springvale Road, Great Falls Craftsman style…Quality build. 7,000 sq.ft., Masterful blend of formal and casual spaces.

Dianne Van Volkenburg and her team of real estate agents and marketing specialists are unsurpassed in providing first-class service to buyers and sellers. In fact, Dianne and her team have one of the highest rates of repeat clients in all of Northern Virginia as former clients, families and 9841 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066 703-757-9190 • GreatFallsGreatHomes.com

friends trust them for their real estate needs.

703-757-3222

www.insidenova.com

February 22, 2018 21

Mackall Farms New Estate Homes, adjacent to Langley Farm.

Rockland Farms Seven New Artisan Homes near to Potomac School, on a private wooded cul-de-sac.

Lucy Lane Build to suit in Langley Forest.

Park Central New Modern One Level Living Homes. Walk to downtown McLean.

Lawton Street A Modern Farmhouse in sought after Langley Forest, May delivery.

Savile Lane 1.25-Acre private lot, Minutes from Georgetown. Build your dream!

Matthew Mills Delivery in Winter of 2018.

Langley Hill Two Rare Lots off Turkey Run Rd.

Cornwell Farm New Gated 6-Acre Estate with Pool in Great Falls, Delivery 2019.

February 22, 2018

www.insidenova.com

February 22, 2018 23

Laurie Mensing

Every transaction is treated as if it was my own

www.lauriemensing.com

McLean $1,125,000

Vienna $374,000

McLean $2,495,000

Fairfax~ Call for Pricing

McLean $1,475,000

Fairfax $585,000

Arlington $400,000

McLean $1,999,000

Great Falls $1,245,000

Call me today for a neighborhood update! Laurie Mensing

Licensed in VA, MD & DC

Top 1% of Residential Realtors Nationwide

Direct: 703.873.5193 Cell: 703.965.8133 laurie.mensing@longandfoster.com

February 22, 2018

www.insidenova.com

Public-Safety Notes AMID CONTROVERSY, COUNTY FIRE CHIEF TO RETIRE: Fairfax County Fire

Chief Richard Bowers, whose department has been under scrutiny after a female firefighter committed suicide two years ago due to online bullying, announced Feb. 16 that he would retire April 30. Following the suicide of firefighter Nicole Mittendorff in April 2016, Bowers vowed to combat harassment against women in the department. But Battalion Chief Kathleen Stanley, whom Bowers had appointed Women’s Program Officer to oversee those efforts, resigned in January, citing what she said was ongoing sexist and retaliatory behavior within the department. The Board of Supervisors subsequently tasked new County Executive Bryan Hill with investigating reported problems within the Fire and Rescue Department. Bowers joined the county’s fire department in February 2013 after a 35-year career with the Montgomery County (Md.) Fire and Rescue Service. BALTIMORE RESIDENTS ARRESTED FOR THEFTS IN TYSONS: Fairfax Coun-

ty police officers were working at Tysons Corner Center in the 1900 block of Chain Bridge Road on Feb. 13 at 8:55 p.m. when they saw two women and a man inside a store putting clothing in a bag, police said. The three then exited the store without

paying for the items, authorities said. Officers attempted to stop the three suspects, but one of the women discharged pepper spray, police said. All the suspects ran, but police arrested Kimberly Stinson, 45, and Shantelia Dixon, 34, before they could exit the mall. The third suspect, Antonio Douglas, 28, continued to run outside, where a K-9 unit joined the chase. Police apprehended Douglas and authorities transported him to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries due to a dog bite. The three suspects, all of whom are from Baltimore, stole more than $2.700 worth of property from various stores in Tysons Corner Center, police said. Authorities charged Stinson and Dixon with robbery, grand larceny and larceny with the intent to distribute. Douglas was charged with robbery, grand larceny, larceny with the intent to distribute, resisting arrest and possession of marijuana. DRIVER ARRESTED AFTER HITTING PARKED CAR IN VIENNA: A local resi-

dent called and requested a police officer to assist with an accident that had occurred in the 300 block of Cabin Road, S.E., on Feb. 12 between 9:50 and 9:58 p.m. Upon arrival, the caller advised the officer that someone had crashed into the resident’s parked vehicle. The driver of the striking vehicle was still on scene.

While talking with the driver, the officer detected the odor of alcoholic beverage coming from the man and observed many signs of impairment, police said. After the driver failed all the sobriety tests administered, police arrested the 21-year-old Vienna man and transported him to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. Authorities served him with a warrant for driving while intoxicated and remanded him to the custody of Fairfax County sheriff’s deputies. VIENNA POLICE ARREST MAN FOR DISORDERLY CONDUCT, PROPERTY DESTRUCTION: An employee at Vienna

Wolf Trap Hotel, 430 Maple Ave., W., called Vienna police on Feb. 15 at 9:01 p.m. to request assistance with a customer. Officers went to the hotel and made contact with the emotionally disturbed customer, who was screaming, cursing and throwing object from his room. Police arrested the 50-year-old man of no fixed address and transported him to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, where authorities served him with arrest warrants for disorderly conduct and destruction of private property. Authorities set a secured bond of $1,000 for the man and remanded him to the custody of Fairfax County sheriff’s deputies.

PROPERTY STOLEN DURING McLEAN

HOME BURGLARY: A resident living in

the 1800 block of Kirby Road in McLean told Fairfax County police on Feb. 14 at 5 p.m. someone had entered the residence and taken property. IMPROPERLY DISPOSED SMOKING MATERIALS CAUSE TYSONS TOWNHOUSE FIRE: The Fairfax County Fire

and Rescue Department on Feb. 13 at approximately 3:12 p.m. dispatched units to a reported townhouse fire in the 8500 block of Jeffersonian Court in Tysons. Units arrived on scene to find smoke showing from a second-floor window to the rear of a two-story, middle-unit townhouse. Fire crews found, and quickly extinguished, a blaze in a second-floor bedroom. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire. Smoke alarms were present and sounded after the fire had been discovered by an occupant. Both occupants escaped and called 911. Fire investigators determined the fire started in a second-floor bedroom and was accidental in nature, caused by improper disposal of smoking materials. Five occupants were displaced as a result of the fire. The Red Cross offered assistance, which the occupants accepted. There were no reports of firefighter or civilian injuries. Officials estimated the fire caused $93,750 worth of damage. – A Staff Report

The BELT Team Bringing Expertise, Loyalty & Trust to Real Estate

Call (703) 242-3975 CUL-DE-SAC LOT

NEW HOME Arlington ~ $2,500,000

Herndon ~ $515,000

Vienna ~ $1,275,000

McLean ~ $1,250,000

Call (703) 242-3975 for FREE REPORT “40 Questions To Ask Your Realtor BEFORE You Sell Your Home”

COMING SOON in Vienna See Our Listings: BeltTeamRealEstate.com

Seller Site: TheBeltTeam.com

Google The Belt Team. You’ll see the difference! www.insidenova.com

February 22, 2018 25

Falls Church

McLean