June 2015 - Greenbriar Community
Transcription
June 2015 - Greenbriar Community
Fairfax County Seeking Volunteers to Assist With Largest Event it Has Ever Hosted. See Page 19. Volume 46 Number 8 June 2015 Are YOU Guilty of Adding to the Danger in This Greenbriar Intersection? by Angela D. Glascock While walking to pick up my daughter from Greenbriar East Elementary School, my 4-year-old son and I were almost hit by a car in the crosswalk at Point Pleasant and Middle Ridge Drive because a woman couldn’t wait thirty seconds for us to cross the street! On the way home from school, we stopped at the same intersection to wait for the crossing guard to wave us across. The guard had already begun to raise her stop sign and was in the street when I saw a woman roll through the stop sign on Point Pleasant and pass close by the crossing guard. She disregarded the crossing guard’s instructions and cut in the Kiss and Ride line to block the crosswalk completely so the children couldn’t cross. I looked at her through the car window and saw that she was cradling a sleeping baby in her arms, and, as I watched, she picked up a paper coffee cup and drank from it. A friend told me how the same man has cut in front of her (and everyone behind her) in the Kiss and Ride line twice within the past couple weeks. The first time, she gave him a brief “Excuse me!” beep of her horn, nothing obnoxious. You know what the man did then? He got out of his car and yelled at her. The second time, she recognized his car, so she didn’t beep at him. One of my neighbors says she has nearly been run down in the Middle Ridge crosswalk more times than she cares to remember. I want to know what makes people who cut into the Kiss and Ride line and block children’s paths with their 1,000-pound vehicles think that they are more important than the rest of us. I want to know who the person I often hear honking in the predictable line of afternoon traffic on Middle Ridge coming from Route 50 is — I’m pretty sure it is the same person every time. We all have places to be. Many of us are running late. It is not the end of the world if you are late … but it might be the end of your world as you know it if you hurt someone while driving like an inconsiderate oaf. The blatant disregard for the law and, ultimately, for people’s — children’s — lives is unbelievable. When you cut in the Kiss and Ride line, roll through stop signs, try to beat pedestrians through the crosswalk, and block the crosswalks, you are behaving as if you are more important than everyone else — including children — and your needs outweigh ours. How would you feel if someone treated you or your child this way? You would feel outraged. Occasionally, people make mistakes. Drivers will misjudge their ability to not block the crosswalk before the Kiss and Ride line comes to a stop. Or they legitimately didn’t see you in the crosswalk and stop to sheepishly wave you on. But there is a huge difference between making a mistake and being deliberately and unremorsefully inconsiderate, unsafe and asinine. Sure, we can blame some of the aggressive driving on outsiders who cut through our neighborhood to save a few minutes’ time by avoiding the traffic and lights on Route 50 and Stringfellow Road. But over on my side of Point Pleasant, no one is cutting through. These are my own neighbors driving forty miles an hour past my house. It infuriates me. And I know I’m not the only resident on a non-cut-through street with this problem. The intersection at Middle Ridge and Point Pleasant Drive is notorious. The speeding and aggressive driving in Greenbriar is appalling. It is unacceptable. It has to end before someone’s life ends because of this vehicular anarchy! Editor’s Note: Be forewarned! Police have been observed at this crosswalk recently giving out tickets! INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Ask Penny............................................................6 Chantilly Library Events...................................14 Classified Ads....................................................23 Day Tripper........................................................10 GCA News...........................................................2 CCC Calendar....................................................24 In Our Neighborhood..........................................7 Kids Korner................................................. 12-13 Norma’s Nook.....................................................8 ECRWSS GREENBRIAR RESIDENT CHANTILLY, VA 20151 Sunday, June 21, 2015 Greenbriar Flyer 4615 Stringfellow Road Chantilly, VA 20151 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FAIRFAX, VA PERMIT NO 912 Page 2 greenbriar greenbriar flyer Volume 46 Number 8 June 2015 The Greenbriar Flyer, an official publication of the Greenbriar Civic Association, is a nonprofit organization, published monthly and distributed free to all residents of the Greenbriar subdivision of Fairfax County. Inquiries should be addressed to: 4615 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly, VA 20151. Ads, articles and supporting digital photographs June be submitted to our e-mail address at [email protected] Editor-in-Chief: Asst. Editor Lee Conley Barbara Levermann Editor, Kids Korner Erica DeMille Operations Manager: Lee Conley Layout Editor: Lee Conley Production Editor: Barbara Burdette Business Manager: Dannette Wolfe Ad Manager: Lee Conley Classified Ads Editor: Copy Editor: Copy Coordinator: Editorial Writer: Sports Writer: Cooking Editor: Gardening Editor: CCC Calendar: Jean Hnarakis Lee Conley Jerry Chambers Angela Glascock Colin Barthel Jennifer Rybicki Charlotte Simson Chad Smillie Erica DeMille, Angela Glascock Rosanna & Bruce Hovermann, Penny M. Lane, Norma Pace Writers: Proofreaders: Quality Control: Circulation: Marion Brown, Donna Chong, Barbara Levermann Barbara Levermann Dannette Wolfe (External) Barbara Burdette (Internal) Meri Aanstoos (Schools) Printed by Silver Communications Circulation 4,175 Due to the limitations of a volunteer staff, the Flyer cannot cover every community event. Greenbriar residents and organizations are invited to submit material, which will be edited and printed as space allows. Opinions expressed in published articles do not necessarily represent the editorial opinions of the Flyer. Subscriptions to the Greenbriar Flyer are available for $5.50 per year or $10 for two years. Please send a check with name and mailing address of recipient to: Greenbriar Flyer 4615 Stringfellow Road Chantilly, VA 20151 flyer June 2015 GCA News by Vince Krevinas GCA President Welcome to Greenbriar in full bloom! Alas, if not for the outrageous amount of pollen triggering my allergies, I’d be a happy camper. What I see beyond that, however, is a community that’s dived into spring with a vengeance. Overall, properties look fantastic. The vast majority of residents are regularly mowing, trimming and edging their lawns. Hopefully, my constant carping about respect for each other’s property is having some tangible impact. In my most recent columns, I’ve covered all the issues and programs on GCA’s plate. Now, it is time for the community to respond with its support. First things first: Cale Community Center. My heartfelt thanks for the patience and understanding of renters who have carried on despite the challenges dealing with the parking lot restructuring and, unfortunately, infrastructure issues that proved to be somewhat disruptive. Electrical outages, tied in with Verizon’s work on the Stringfellow Road widening project, and unresolved issues with our grinder pump have been problematic. The technical issues with the pump operation are complex, and we are still working on those issues with our vendor. We also need cooperation and oversight from renters to minimize the “dumping” of hard materials, such as plastics and metal, into the community center restroom facilities. GCA is confident we are close to a solution on eliminating these problems. Shout Out. Pennypacker Lane resident, Bill Amon, recently e-mailed a tightly formatted document titled “Greenbriar on the Web,” which expertly lays out the Web options available to Greenbriar residents in two pages. Bill suggested I add it to our Greenbriar welcome kits for new residents. A great idea! Bill is a longtime resident and a block captain in district 3C. Kudos to him for the work and thought he put into, what is now, a new and valuable tool to help Greenbriar residents. It is reproduced on page 19 of this issue of the Flyer. I welcome and encourage new ideas on programs and processes from residents. Special Thanks. District 4A representative John Hefferan is finishing his final term with the GCA. We commend him for his long and valued service to the community. We will certainly miss John’s brand of wisdom, insight and friendship. He was always a strong voice of reason in working our way through a host of, sometimes contentious, issues within the GCA. He is also a devoted family man now able to spend more time with the grandchildren he cherishes. Brian Jarvis, a relatively new resident, has stepped up to take over John’s responsibilities, and I ask that you provide Brian the same level of support you provided John. 2015 Membership Drive — Block Captain Appreciation Party. The 2015 GCA membership drive will kick off with our third annual block captain appreciation party at the Cale Community Center on Sunday, June 14, at 2 p.m. We will be serving food and refreshments and will distribute materials to the district reps and block captains who are able to attend the party. It’s a great opportunity to get reacquainted and to prepare for the membership drive. District reps will distribute the materials to their block captains who are unable to attend. We plan to complete this year’s membership drive by August 31. Please support your block captain and GCA! Street Sweeping. As of the date of the submission of my column, I have not yet heard back from VDOT on a timeframe for the sweeping of the sand and salt from our streets. VDOT doesn’t operate on a rigid schedule and insists that they will notify me ahead of time when the process will commence. Middle Ridge Traffic-calming Vote. I hope that those of you who were able to attended the community meeting at Greenbriar East Elementary School on May 27. Residents had the opportunity to ask questions and express any concerns on the deployment of traffic-calming devices (speed tables) on Middle Ridge Drive. The traffic-calming task force will soon distribute a ballot, with return postage included, to the 692 Greenbriar homes VDOT deems the most directly affected by the devices. A valid vote will be determined by a return of at least fifty percent of the ballots, and sixty percent of those responding must vote to support the deployment to effect the change. I ask again that everyone who receives a ballot return it with, hopefully, support for this very important initiative. As you will see by the article on page one, speeding and aggressive driving on Greenbriar streets, and particularly on Middle Ridge Drive, is epidemic and cannot continue. Not much more to add until my next column. As always, keep in touch with your feedback … both good and bad. Enjoy your spring! “Think like a man of action. Act like a man of thought.” Vince Krevinas 703-818-1225 (Home) 703-268-8081 (Cell) [email protected] June 2015 Greenbriar Civic Association Board Meeting Minutes April 7, 2015 President Vince Krevinas called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m. The board approved the minutes of the March 3, 2015, meeting as written and distributed. Treasurer Doug Sommer presented the March 31, 2015, financial report, and the board accepted the financials as presented. We have $130,382.95 in our accounts. Doug reported that he had received a letter from the IRS advising him that the GCA should be using its old EIN number. Doug contacted the IRS, which informed him that the IRS staff member who had advised us that we needed a new EIN number because our 501(c)(4) nonprofit status had lapsed was in error. Doug will ask the bank to re-issue our CDs with the old number and order new checks at a cost of approximately $200. Doug confirmed that in addition to resigning as treasurer, he is also resigning as district 3A representative. Vince requested that each district representative submit one idea to him with regard to adding value to our community. He announced that the board elections will be held at the annual meeting on Tuesday, June 2, and the 2015-2016 membership drive will begin on June 15. Vince reported that Pat Herrity’s office has accepted the signatures of the homeowners who will be affected by the placement of the speed tables on Middle Ridge Drive. Task force leader Steven Smith is now scheduling the required community meeting to discuss the issue with residents. The meeting will be held at Greenbriar East Elementary School. Steve will post notice of the meeting in the May issue of the Greenbriar Flyer. Vince said that he is receiving more and more complaints from residents concerning the speeding and dangerous driving on Middle Ridge Drive. Vince also reported that: • He had contacted VDOT to inquire when we can expect the department to sweep the streets to clean up the accumulated gravel and salt residue from this past winter. Vince will let us know when he gets a response. • Resident Bill DiLoreta has submitted a proposal to the GCA to replace the flags at the entrances to Greenbriar each year at his own expense. • A resident had inquired about where to dispose of American flags. Brandon Gotwalt recommended that the resident contact The American Legion, the VFW or a local Boy Scouts troop. • Resident Paz Leonardo has volunteered to assist with the treasurer’s duties. • VDOT’s targeted completion date for the paving on Stringfellow Road and the parking lots is mid-May. The GCA will then need to re-do the community entrance display at Poplar Tree Road. • He had received an e-mail from a resident reporting that thieves had dug out the termite traps around their house at a loss of hundreds of dollars. Vince introduced Shawna Burciaga, who had contacted the Fairfax County Park Authority to inquire about the possibility of repairing or replacing the asphalt walkway that runs through Greenbriar Commons Park. The Park Authority estimated that it would cost $12,000 but stated that there was simply no money in the budget to cover the cost of repairs. Shawna then put together a proposal asking the GCA to cover a portion of the cost; the remaining funds could come from neighborhood fundraising activities and a grant from the county. In further discussions with the county, the estimated cost increased to $15,600 for complete replacement and adding a curb cut to allow for handicap access. Shawna volunteered to write the NEW TO GREENBRIAR? The Greenbriar Civic Association would like to welcome you to Greenbriar by presenting you with a welcome kit. To obtain your kit, call Janet Goodgion at 703-968-7384. greenbriar flyer Page 3 grant request and to set up an account with the county to accept donations toward the cost. Vince stated that he considered it a priority to spend GCA funds on tangible improvements in the neighborhood. Secretary Barbara Levermann moved that GCA cover up to $8,000 of the cost to replace the walkway. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Shawna will write and submit the grant request to cover half the cost of the walkway. She will also contact the county to obtain more information about how long it would take to complete the project, when it could be scheduled and what sort of diversions would be put in place during construction. Shawna noted that it could take up to 60 days to receive a response on the grant request. The board thanked Shawna for taking the initiative on this project and for all of her efforts to improve the park. District 2C representative Dennis Bell will forward information about children’s entertainers to district 2A representative and events coordinator Sandy Williams for a potential kids’ concert in Greenbriar Commons Park this summer. Sandy reported that the GCA-sponsored Easter Egg Hunt was a great success and thanked the Ed Lang Team at ReMax Premier for providing the Easter Bunny. She announced that the Nitehawks Swing band will perform in the park on May 30 and the Harmony Heritage Singers will perform on August 1. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Thank-a-Neighbor — Greenbriar Gratitudes Is there someone you would like to thank for a kind or noteworthy act? Submit your gratitude with the name of the person(s), Greenbriar street name and a description of the act along with your name, address and phone number. GCA Calendar of Events Contact: Sandy Williams 703-378-6984 Event & Location Contact Tuesday, June 2 7:30 p.m. GCA Annual Meeting & Elections Cale Community Center 4615 Stringfellow Road Pres. Vince Krevinas 703-818-1225 Sunday, June 14 2 p.m. Block Captain Appreciation Party Cale Community Center 4615 Stringfellow Road Pres. Vince Krevinas 703-8180125 Date & Time Saturday, August 1 7 p.m. Rain Date: August 2 7 p.m. Concert in the Park Sandy Williams HARMONY HERITAGE SINGERS 703-378-6984 Barbershop Harmony Greenbriar Commons Park (next to the pool) GREENBRIAR CIVIC ASSOCIATION, INC. P.O. Box 220239 Chantilly, VA 20153-0239 2014–2015 GCA BOARD President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Vince Krevinas Joe Dettor Doug Sommer Barbara Levermann 703-818-1225 703-631-9719 703-818-8013 703-631-7830 District 1 Representatives: District 2 Representatives: A. Vince Krevinas B. Jim Rybicki C. John Ware A. Sandy Williams B. Tina Campbell C. Dennis Bell District 3 Representatives: District 4 Representatives: A. Doug Sommer B. Joe Marr C. Mike Frizell A. John Hefferan B. Debbie Legieza C. Reggie West 703-818-1225 703-378-7809 703-378-8551 703-818-8013 703-862-7500 703-830-2348 GCA Committees and Activities Community Events Membership Database Welcome Kits Community Center Rentals Greenbriar Community Center Chair Greenbriar Flyer Sandy Williams Peter Roth Janet Goodgion Chad Smillie Vince Krevinas Leona (Lee) Conley 703-378-6984 703-815-4463 703-928-4428 703-378-7048 703-502-0849 703-263-0783 703-378-6984 N/A 703-968-7384 703-378-6911 703-818-1225 [email protected] Page 4 greenbriar flyer Greenbriar Community Spring Cleanup by Sandy Williams Enthusiastic volunteers gathered at Greenbriar Commons Park on Saturday, April 11, to participate in the Greenbriar Community Cleanup sponsored by the Greenbriar Civic Association. It was a delightful morning to be out as residents took on the challenge of a much-needed task after the long, hard winter. The GCA thanks the following volunteers for their cleanup efforts: pack master Mike Stone and den leader Renee Geary with Cub Scouts Pack 1133 from Greenbriar West Elementary School; Ken and Kristine Barone; Eva Caldrone; Brennan Conaway and our under-5 expert trash pickers, Isaac and Pike Conaway; Lisa Demik; GCA vice president Joe Dettor; Lane Ebert; Diane Edwards; Garrison Fletcher; Finn Geary; Greg and Philip Hessel; Justin Hopler; Hyo, Jay and Sean Kim; Namho Kim; Walt Kozikowski; GCA president Vince Krevinas; Josh Lee; William Nalls; Anh, Benjamin and Lilly Nguyen; Marty Rapach; Eric Stone; and Dawn, Madeline and Mark Whalley. We greatly appreciate your community service! Thanks also to Renee Geary for serving donuts to the Scouts upon their arrival. The GCA provided water for the volunteers. Thanks to my husband, Don, for his help with trash disposal, and many thanks and much appreciation to Joe Dettor for hauling all those trash bags and other large items to the Cale Community Center dumpster. We also thank all those residents who weren’t able to volunteer that day but who regularly pick up litter in front of their homes and other littered areas in our community throughout the year. Author Priscilla Cummings Visits Rocky Run Middle School by Ryan Bowen, Nyla Carter-Ogden, Kaitlyn Cheng and Megan Pumphrey Award-winning author Priscilla Cummings visited Rocky Run Middle School in Chantilly, Virginia, on April 14, 2015, to discuss with students her writing process and her experiences as a published writer of middle grade and children’s books. She spoke to seventh and eighth grade classes throughout the day and participated in a group discussion with students and their parents that evening. Cummings shared stories about her method of research for the various books she has written, including novels Red Kayak and Blindsided, and picture books, such as Chadwick the Crab, which was her first book. Red Kayak was one of this month’s selections for Rocky Run’s Parent Teen Book Club, which meets three times a year. Pictured with Ms. Cummings are the four student writers (left to right): Nyla Carter-Ogden, Megan Pumphrey, Priscilla Cummings, Ryan Brown and Kaitlyn Cheng. Photos courtesy of Charlie R. Fontz. June 2015 During her day at Rocky Run, Cummings sat down with four student writers to talk about her background and life as a writer. She shared that she has always loved reading and writing even as a young child. She began writing at age five when she wrote about the cats on her family’s dairy farm. Her first inspiration came in second grade when she read the book Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, which ignited her desire to become a published author. In college, Cummings took many journalism classes and then worked as a news reporter for 13 years. She said her experiences as a journalist taught her the importance of sticking to the facts and keeping smooth and detailed notes. Cummings always does extensive research as part of her writing process, using the skills she developed writing for newspapers and magazines to provide factual details to enhance her fictional stories. For example, while writing Red Kayak, she interviewed a waterman to obtain the most accurate information for developing the character of Brady’s father. She also worked with a paramedic crew to experience what it would be like on the job and behind the scenes in an ambulance, and she incorporated those details and feelings into Red Kayak. Cummings told students it takes an average of three years from the idea stage of the writing process to when the book is on shelves for readers to purchase. To spark an idea for a book, Cummings admits her best method is to “do a lot of daydreaming.” She adds, “All authors do at some point.” During the process of writing a story, Cummings puts herself in her characters’ shoes to obtain a clear and vivid image of a situation. The inspiration for the storyline of Red Kayak was a news story about a tragedy on the Chesapeake Bay. She then took aspects of people she knew and wove them into the characters she created. For example, her son William gave her inspiration for certain aspects of the character Ben, including his love for LEGOs. “My son influenced some of the characters and their emotions,” she says, “but I never base a character directly on a person, as you never know quite what they would think of it.” Cummings also offered helpful advice for aspiring writers, encouraging these students to never stop writing. “Whether it is writing short stories or just keeping your everyday journal, you never know where or when your imagination will start flowing!” When asked about the common difficulty of writer’s block, she advised writers of all ages to maneuver around it by continuing to just write about anything. Cummings added that being involved with writing activities at school, such as taking writing classes, joining a young authors’ club and working on the school newspaper or yearbook, “will help nurture your passion for writing.” Another way Cummings gets her creative juices flowing is to read all kinds of books. Cummings believes reading books unlocks our creativity. She stated that reading “would definitely help push through writer’s block.” In addition, she explained that by reading, students will be able to listen well and be more aware of their surroundings. “You learn to be a keen observer,” the author said, “and a writer can definitely learn from that experience.” She urged the young writers to go out and experience a lot of different things because then they are able to create characters with whom they and their readers can identify and relate. Cummings’ new book, Cheating for the Chicken Man, will be released this summer. Her latest novel follows The Journey Back as the third book in the Red Kayak series and describes J.T.’s return from the juvenile detention camp told from his sister Kate’s point of view. In the book, J.T. comes back from the camp, and Kate must take on the great responsibility of protecting her brother from his elementary school bullies, as well as helping him adjust to life back at home with his family. The new book will appear on bookstore shelves this July. June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 5 LAWN MOWING $25 Be the Proud Owner of Collectible Art or Quilts and Benefit WFCM A generous donor gave Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) seven large Robert Taylor WWII aviation lithograph art prints, published between 1987 and 1991. Mounted in quality mattes and frames, each one is signed by the artist and fighter pilots, and they come with a certificate of authenticity. The accurately detailed aircraft from that era are depicted in historical battle settings. If you are interested in making a purchase for your home or office, contact Jennie Bush at [email protected]. The sale of these collectible prints will support WFCM’s continued efforts to reduce hunger and homelessness in our community. Another donor gave WFCM three lovely quilted baby blankets that are available for sale to any interested supporter. Contact Jennie about these homemade treasures as well. Perfect as shower gifts! Weekly service Weekly service entails: mowing, trimming and edging Marc’s Lawn care Inc. 571-422-3195 Dependable, Attentive & Courteous LEAF Raking $13 per compiled bag YOUR GREENBRIAR REALTORS The “Athena and Janet Team” This 1990 Robert Taylor print depicts P-51 Mustangs of the 361st Fighter Group seeking targets in Europe during 1944. The print bears the signatures of five pilots. WFCM’s Most Needed Donations Food • • • • • • • • • 1-2 pound bags of rice Canned fruit (all types) Pasta sauce Sugar Canned meats (tuna, ham, chicken) Cold cereals Canned tomatoes Flour Canned or dry beans Toiletries (clients cannot purchase with food stamps) • • • • Baby wipes Toothpaste Shampoo Solid deodorant Please contact Terri Kelly at [email protected] if your group is willing to coordinate a food drive. Have a pothole in your street? Report it to VDOT. Call 1-800-367-7623. Athena Keifer 703-868-4091 [email protected] www.AthenaKeifer.com Janet Stewart 703-618-2215 [email protected] www.JanetStewart01.com Call for a Free Neighborhood Market Analysis! Your Greenbriar Neighborhood Experts! Weichert Realtors 3998 Fair Ridge Dr, Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 934-0400 Page 6 greenbriar flyer June 2015 Fairfax County Celebrates New Workforce Housing What Do You Think, Greenbriar? “Ask Penny!” by Penny M. Lane Penny M. Lane Last Month’s Issue: Did you receive too much unnecessary paper with your tax forms this year? Dear Taxed, This page intentionally left blank. Dear Penny, On non-trash pickup days, where should a homeowner store his or her trashcan? In front of the house, in the driveway or out of sight? Signed, Don’t Want to Live in a Trashcan City So, Greenbriar. Where do you store your trashcans? Are you annoyed by neighbors who don’t store their trashcans out of sight? E-mail your anonymous response to [email protected]. Have a question? Have an answer? E-mail Penny at [email protected]. LINE M KERR REALTOR This is a great time to buy or sell real estate. Whether you’re looking for a home in a golf community or in a suburban oasis, I can help you navigate today’s market and provide personalized service. If you are moving in or moving out, moving up or down-sizing, you need an expert to guide you. LineKerr.LNF.com CELL 703 887 8146 OFFICE 703 368 1146 Licensed in Virginia On May 5, 2015, a groundbreaking ceremony was held in celebration for the Residences at the Government Center. Hosted by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in partnership with the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA), Jefferson Apartment Group, and Stratford Capital Group, the event marked the beginning of construction for new workforce housing in Fairfax County. Situated on more than eight wooded acres facing Monument Drive, the Residences at the Government Center will offer 270 rental units of affordable housing for the Fairfax County workforce. The first units are scheduled to be available by October 2016, with the project complete by early 2017. The rental units will be affordable to households earning between 50 and 60 percent of the area median income (AMI) for the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Area. Monthly rents are estimated to range from the mid-$900s for an efficiency to the low-$1,700s for a three-bedroom unit. This project is expected to attract many applicants, including employees working in nearby county facilities, teachers, firefighters, employees of local businesses and other qualified households. “Northern Virginia produces a large percent of the economic output for the Commonwealth,” said Kurt Creager, Director of Fairfax County Department of Housing and Community Development. “This means our biggest natural resource and economic advantage is the entrepreneurial talent of our people, and this requires a full spectrum of affordable housing opportunities. The Residences at the Government Center represents a major step forward in the right direction.” The Board of Supervisors approved the project on March 8, 2011. Final financing was put in place in March of this year. The Residences is a unique public-private partnership among the county, Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Jefferson Apartment Group, and Stratford Capital Group. The county provided the land though a long-term, nominalfee ground lease. Jefferson Apartment Group will construct, operate and maintain the project at no cost to the county. “This is a significant achievement forged over many years,” stated Greg Lamb, Executive Vice President and Managing Partner for Jefferson Apartment Group. “We look forward to the next important milestone in the fall of 2016 when we open the project to the families who will call the Residences at the Government Center home.” “This development project typifies the value, importance and necessity of public-private partnerships in the creation of affordable and workforce housing,” noted Stephen Wilson, President and Principal for Stratford Capital Group. “This outcome is the culmination of a considerable amount of effort, persistence and ingenuity from many people that will ultimately result in a development that I think will be considered “best in class” in the industry and will serve as a model for future developments.” The four-story apartment community will feature garage parking, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, a conference room, outdoor courtyards, a play area and a community room. Green features will include low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints that have fewer toxins, Energy Star appliances and highefficiency water heaters. The venture has received joint recognition by the Washington Smart Growth Alliance and the ULI Terwilliger Center for Workforce Housing for its innovative approach to providing workforce housing. The project was commended for its unique public-private partnership that makes possible the creation of a private development consisting entirely of affordable workforce housing units. The location of the apartments within walking distance to jobs and everyday shopping opportunities satisfies one of the most critically important tenets of smart growth. For more information on the Residences at the Government Center, visit www.jeffersonapartmentgroup.com. EMAIL [email protected] Next Greenbriar Flyer Deadline June 12, 2015, 7 P.M. June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 7 In Our Neighborhood ... Greenbriar’s Local Honey Harvest: Coming Soon to a Hive Near You! by Angela D. Glascock Did you know that honeybees, along with other pollinators, help pollinate eighty percent of the earth’s plants? Did you know that only a small percentage of people are allergic to bee stings? Did you know that honeybees are super clean and they will not poop in the hive? Did you know — and this is the best tidbit yet — that at the time of this printing, we have not one but two beekeepers in our neighborhood? Greenbriar residents Catherine Frost and Leslie Hicks found bees so fascinating that they took up beekeeping a year ago last spring. I recently toured their backyard apiaries as they shared their honeybee knowledge and experiences with me. When I saw bees flying in and out of their hives and heard the soft, continuous buzz of their wings, I immediately understood Leslie and Catherine’s fascination with honeybees. You can get pretty close to a hive without protective clothing if you are mindful of what you’re doing. Bees enter and exit at the front of the hive, so don’t stand there. They have a visible flight path, so stay out of that. When a bee buzzes around you, don’t flap your hands around and holler; remain calm. Bees must be provoked to sting, and when honeybees sting, their stinger is pulled out of their bodies and they die. So it’s not fun for you — or the bee — if she stings you! The saying “busy as a bee” is right on; those little lovelies never stopped moving. When the bees returned to the hive after collecting pollen and nectar, yellow clumps of pollen covered the fine hairs on their legs. You can’t see the nectar they collect; a worker bee holds it in her “honey stomach” until she can deliver it to the hive bee. Eventually, the nectar is made into honey, which is what bees live on in the winter. Honeybees make a lot of extra honey, and that is how we benefit from their bee labor. The pollen is also used for bee food. Tinalea Hamilton, a Greenbriar neighbor who recently moved out of state, introduced Leslie, who lives in the P section of Greenbriar, to backyard beekeeping. Tinalea’s yard backed up to Leslie’s, so Leslie was able to witness Tinalea’s honeybees in action. Leslie found the bees mesmerizing. She soon convinced her husband, Rob, who was not as interested in beekeeping, to take a Beginning Beekeeper course through the Loudoun Beekeepers Association. They attended the course together, and Rob was excited to begin backyard beekeeping with Leslie. Leslie and Rob now have two hives in their backyard and a pair of his and hers beekeeping suits hanging by the front door. As soon as their honey is available for purchase, Leslie will let friends and neighbors know. I tasted a bit of their honey and, oh my, it is worth the wait! Catherine lives in the M section of Greenbriar. She has been interested in bees and beekeeping since she was a child growing up on a dairy farm in Oregon. Recently, she was able to begin keeping bees and currently has three hives in her yard. She has one jar of honey left from last year’s harvest (which I was lucky enough to sample — divine!) and a roughly six-inch diameter disk of beeswax that she will use to make balm for hands and lips. Catherine is thinking of naming her backyard apiary “Chloe Bear’s Bees,” after her young daughter. Keep an eye out — there will be honey available from Chloe Bear’s Bees soon enough! There are several species of honeybees; within those species, there are races and hybrids of honeybees. Italian bees are known for high honey production, making them a favorite of apiarists. Catherine and Leslie keep Italian honeybees, which they refer to as “the girls,” because the majority of honeybees are female. Each hive has one queen bee and thousands of worker bees and drones. Only the male bees are drones. Drones don’t have stingers, and they don’t gather nectar. They have one job … and that is to mate with the queen bee. Like honeybees, there are many types of beehives available: the Langstroth is the one most commonly used in the U.S. Leslie and Catherine currently have Langstroth hives they have placed on cinderblocks to help with hive circulation and to keep the critters out. Leslie chose to use a hive stand (a slanted piece at the bottom) and three boxes with an English garden top, whereas Catherine has one box with a flat top and a bottle of simple syrup attached to the front. The simple syrup is so the bees don’t have to travel as far for nectar and can focus more energy on establishing their new hives. As the bees build the hive, beekeepers can add to the stack with frame-filled boxes; this is called “supering.” Frames, on which the bees will build the hive, are made to fit in the hive boxes, their sizes corresponding with the depth of the box. Beekeepers often use frames with a thin sheet of wax foundation that resemble a real comb. Bees draw out the foundation to create cells where their brood will develop and where they will store their delicious honey. After the girls cap off the honey, it can be collected. Bees need water, so Catherine and Leslie have watering stations nearby. Watering stations can be as simple as a shallow dish with water and pebbles. Pebbles give bees something to land on, preventing them from falling in and drowning. Both Leslie and Catherine use a pet waterer, which has an inverted bottle that allows water to flow into the dish when the level decreases. Backyard beekeeping can help improve declining honeybee health and population. Bees will travel within a three-mile radius in search of nectar — Catherine and Leslie’s girls will likely visit your yard this summer! As a neighborhood, Greenbriar can help honeybees and our resident beekeepers by planting bee-friendly plants and employing non-toxic pest control. Plant some of these pestrepelling herbs and flowers in your garden or in pots around your home: basil, lavender, lemongrass, thyme, mint, rosemary, chrysanthemums, marigolds, nasturtiums and petunias. Choose a variety of plants that bloom from early spring to late fall and that grow to varying heights. The next time you find yourself glaring at the dandelions and clover in your yard, remember this: Dandelions and clover are a favorite of honeybees! Plenty of resources are available to educate and guide anyone interested in beekeeping, including the Loudoun Beekeepers Association, Virginia State Beekeepers Association and the Xerces Society. A beehive grant program is available in limited amounts through the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to help with the cost. Above: Catherine’s three beehives. Left: Leslie’s beehives (two views). Far Left: Leslie’s bee watering station. Page 8 greenbriar My Mom and Flower Gardens … by Norma Pace Ahhh, spring! It has arrived in Greenbriar. Mr. Snowman is now dripping his soft melted snow on my gardens; the azure blue skies are dotted with wispy, cotton candy-like, white clouds; and Mr. Sunshine is exhibiting his bright, orangey, toothless smile and warming the grass that feels like carpet as I walk on it. I love this season! I had the privilege of growing up with a mom who was raised on a farm and knew how to grow anything she planted. She watered her lawn and gardens and fed her plants and grass with fertilizer regularly; our lawn always looked manicured as if trimmed with sharp scissors. Mom’s colorful gardens were a gift she provided her neighbors, but it was mostly for herself. She toiled daily in the soil because this was something she loved to do. I inherited her love of plants and flowers. I grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, a city known for its beautiful homes and awesome gardens that early English settlers planted back in the 1670s and later. Tourists come from far and wide to walk through the gardens that are filled with very old and tall azaleas, camellias, and many other varieties of flowering plants and trees. Mom fit in well with Charleston. Most of the residents have striking gardens that surround their homes with splashes of color as the buds on plants burst forth with flowers. Nothing pleases me more than walking in my gardens, snipping azaleas, peonies, camellias, hydrangeas, and huge, white, softball-sized flowers on my macro viburnum tree and bringing these colors and fragrances into my home. I have an attachment I put on my hose and fill with Miracle Grow and water to feed my plant life one or two times a week. This particular fertilizer can be used on most foliage, and spraying the leaves and flowers is okay. Mom always said to me, “Feed and water your plants, and they will grow.” She was so right. There are special fertilizers for roses and other flowering vegetation. Read the fine print on the package to be sure you are using something that will help, not harm, your plants. If you love beautiful plants and trees, you know they involve a lot of your time and hard work. As I’ve grown older, I have someone who helps me with my gardens, and he’s a gem. Yesterday, Wesley, my walking buddy who is three years old, helped me fill my birdbaths with water from the hose and put food in my birdfeeder. He’s so cute to watch handling that hose! For old and new residents of Greenbriar, there are many varieties of annuals (they die after summer) and perennials (they return year after year) sold in local stores. Yesterday, Lowes was mobbed with trucks unloading herbs, flower and other plants, and customers were loading up these small plants in their big shopping carts. For me, I prefer to shop for azaleas at a local garden store on Route 29, Betty’s Azalea Ranch. I know that if I want a particular azalea — ‘Sun Rays’ are my favorite, and I have many of them growing in my yard — I can drive over to Betty’s and purchase more. Betty’s has been around since before we moved here in 1972, and her azaleas are well suited for this area. I like to add birdbaths, statues of bunnies and dogs, sundials, and trellises to add variety inside my surrounding grounds. A fellow teacher I taught with flyer at Hutchison Elementary had little signs she placed in five different gardens in her yard. Each sign had the name of one of her grandchildren, and each grandchild got to pick out plants to place in their own particular section. The grands also bought plants to place in their gardens for Mother’s Day. Thought this was an awesome idea. My granddaughter, Megan, is now looking for plants to make a garden in her yard. I am so happy she is interested in carrying on a love of plants that has been passed on to my girls and now my granddaughters. I’m going to divide some of my plants and give some to her. I could not remember how to divide my hydrangeas, but my neighbor, Taylor, said, “Just Google it!” She was right; I found out how to do this. Here are some tips if you want to divide some of your already established plants: • Hydrangea — take a shovel and go down through the middle of the plant. Dig out the roots and soil that surround the plant. Plant this in soil. June 2015 • Azaleas — look on the ground for branches that have sprouted roots in the soil. Cut this section off from the main plant with a shovel, dig a hole and plant this with roots and soil attached. • Peonies — after the plant flowers, use a shovel and go down through the middle of the peony. Dig up part of the plant and roots and place in holes you dig elsewhere. If you have new neighbors who have moved into Greenbriar, ask them if they would like some of your plants that need dividing and share with them. If you have any questions about gardening, just do what my neighbor, Taylor, suggested to one and all, “Just Google it!” I wish we had color in our “Greenbriar Flyer” … oh, we do have a Web site at www.egreenbriar.org where you can view the newspaper in color and can see the colors of my flowers! How about that, neighbors! Here are some of the flowers that were blooming in my garden on May 5 when I wrote this column. Peony Macro viburnum tree Above: Lavender azaleas on side of my house. Left: Pink azalea. June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 9 Farris Electrical Services, Inc. www.farriselectrical.com Residential & Commercial Installations & Repairs Mike Farris 703-988-9222 PO Box 220006 Chantilly, VA 20153 email: [email protected] Greenbriar Flyer policy requires name, address and phone number on all items (including classified ads) submitted for publication. If requested, this information will not be printed — it is needed for our records and in case additional information June be required. The Greenbriar Real Estate Specialist ESSEX – SOLD JEFFERSON – SOLD ASHLEY - SOLD I have been a resident of Greenbriar for 22 years. My kids have attended Greenbriar East Elementary, Rocky Run Middle, and Chantilly High School. I am a full time realtor who is very responsive and works hard for my clients. You should allow an expert on the neighborhood to help you sell or buy a home in Greenbriar. Proven Results!! Fairfax Gateway 12700 Fair Lakes Circle, Ste 120 Fairfax, VA 22033 Office – 703-222-3300 Each office is independently owned and operated Ask me about the Greenbriar Listing special! Joe Dettor Cell – 571-283-5412 [email protected] www.joedettor.com I live here – I work here Page 10 greenbriar flyer June 2015 The Local Tourist & Day Tripper by Rosanna Hoverman with photos by Bruce Hoverman When you announce you are going to retire, people invariably ask if one of the things you plan on doing will be to travel. While some immediately think of longrange trips and exotic destinations, they tend to forget that there are many destinations close to home. So, based on the premise that we live here and don’t have to spend lots of time — or money — on travel, hotel accommodations, etc., we have decided to become “local tourists.” Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens Hillwood, overlooking Rock Creek Park in northwest Washington, is the former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post. For those not familiar with her, “MMP” was the only child of C. W. Post, founder of the Postum Cereal Company that became one of the largest business empires of the early 20th century and later became General Foods. After her father’s death in 1914, she became one of the richest women in America. Between her wealth and connections — she was married to E. F. Hutton, a businessman and stockbroker, and Joseph E. Davies, a lawyer and ambassador … just two of her four husbands — MMP was exposed to prominent social figures and art collectors. Working with the famed art dealer Joseph Duveen and others, she began collecting French decorative arts in 1919. Mr. Duveen, according to what I read, noticed, “Europe has a great deal of art, and America has a great deal of money.” Mr. Duveen may well be responsible for bringing much of that art to this country, as his clientele were the millionaire collectors of America such as Mrs. Post. Originally built in the 1920s as Arbremont, a Georgian Colonial for socialite Helen Blodgett Erwin and her husband, MMP acquired the 25-acre estate in 1955. She then, essentially, gutted and rebuilt the interior. Renovations, including moving the library doors to better frame a view of the Washington Monument, were completed in 1956. The first of many glittering social functions was held in July of 1957. Hillwood was meant to showcase MMP’s collections of French, Asian and, most notably, Russian art and religious objects. The two-story entry hall has a grand staircase, rock crystal chandelier, and portraits of the Russian tsars and tsarinas. There are also porcelain vases that are somewhat “grand” but not overwhelming. I overheard one guest say it was like a mini Hermitage. As you go about the house, you can see why Hillwood gained a reputation as one of Washington’s “most extraordinary estates.” I will note here that you can do a self-guided tour. But as part of a group, we were on a docent-led tour, and I highly recommend seeing the museum this way. Our docent was very knowledgeable and really engaged the group in discussions and answering questions about various things throughout the home. And I noticed our group of 10 slowly grew to include a number of people who had been using the self-guided method. While there are many rooms and items of note, I will just touch on a few and hope I pique your interest enough for you to visit Hillwood yourself. THERMAL WINDOWS & VINYL SIDING Second Generation Home Improvement Company Energy Star rated to qualify for tax break! Double hung • Sliders • Bay • Patio Doors Cover all exterior trim • ROOFING End your painting problems by using Super Polymer Vinyl Siding. References for over 30 years in Greenbriar & Brookfield Discover even more ways to lower energy costs with ESP LOW-E® Insulation for attics and walls Call Cecil Hanger for a FREE estimate (703) 754-1544 Bonded • Licensed • Insured June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 11 A few years ago, the theme for the estate was “Hillwood … where fabulous lives.” I think that’s a fair statement once you see some of the furniture, paintings and decorative objects in the house. MMP added the Pavilion Room to the house to accommodate after-dinner entertaining. Draperies hide a sound system and movie screen, and two state-of-the-art projectors from that era are in a projection booth behind a balcony. Guests and staff were able to enjoy first-run movies. The sofas have pop-up trays for drinks and snacks. This room really became multi-purpose when the furniture was removed. MMP would host dances on the intricately patterned antique English wood floor. But don’t worry about the gorgeous floor — MMP provided rubber tips for the women’s high-heeled shoes! Of note in this room are two very large-scale paintings. One in particular, “A Boyar Wedding Feast,” is well known to Russians because they have a copy of it in their country. Hillwood possesses the original. This brings up the subject of how all the Russian art and decorative objects came to be in MMP’s possession. Her third husband, Joseph E. Davies, was ambassador to Russia in 1937-38. While there, MMP discovered what would become her lifelong passion: Russian Imperial art. Stories abound about her searching through storerooms of Russian Orthodox liturgical pieces, priests’ vestments and robes, chalices and icons. The Soviet government during the 1930s was selling imperial pieces to raise cold, hard cash to finance its industrialization programs, and MMP had plenty of cash. The Icon Room contains about four hundred objects, including Faberge eggs and other creations by the jeweler for the imperial rulers. A room on the second floor, known as the Russian Sacred Arts Gallery, houses some of her extensive collection of objects associated with Russian Orthodox religion. The dining room, while French in décor, serves as a staging area for place settings of porcelain, glass and flatware from French and Russian services. The dining table is not original to the house. MMP designed it for Mar-a-Lago, her Palm Beach, Florida, home. In her will, she requested that the table be brought to Hillwood. When the table’s six leaves are in place, it can seat more than thirty people. MMP designed the mosaic top using 11 different stones. One leaf is on display, so you can see this beautiful mosaic work — it seems a shame to cover it with a tablecloth. Adjacent to the dining room is the breakfast room, designed to recall MMP’s New York apartment breakfast room built in the 1920s. Of particular note in this room is the gilt bronze and green glass chandelier from the Catherine Palace, outside of St. Petersburg, Russia. With the room’s large windows overlooking the gardens and lawn, it is almost like dining al fresco. Next on the tour are the pantry and the kitchen. They are typical 1950s modern American design — right down to the avocado green cabinets. The kitchen features top-of-the-line (for its day) appliances. There is no dishwasher — something your docent might point out. Think about it: If you put all the glorious gilt porcelain and glass in a dishwasher, you would remove the gold. Hand wash only! One last room, or suite of rooms, deserves mentioning: MMP’s bedroom suite. Decorated in the French style, it features a large pastel portrait of two of her daughters, Adelaide and Eleanor. A portrait of Marjorie herself, painted in 1952 by Douglas Chandor, hangs over the fireplace. Chandor is a noted painter of celebrated figures, including Queen Elizabeth. This is one of several portraits of MMP in the house. MMP used the desk in this room to work on the many charities and organizations with which she was involved. They say she began her days with breakfast in bed, which included Postum (the cereal-based drink that started the family fortune) as well as Post cereals. The suite includes her bath and dressing room with a wall safe for her jewels and accessories. Her closets still contain an array of clothing, hats and jewelry, which alternate on display. And, yes, you will see her actual necklaces, rings, etc. While she donated her jewel collection to the Smithsonian, some pieces rotate for display at Hillwood. MMP wanted to delight her visitors to Hillwood with beauty, both inside and outside the mansion. The gardens fulfill that desire to the fullest. We were there in late April, and the gardens were in full bloom with azaleas, lilac, rhododendron, dogwoods, crab apple, tulips and pansies, just to name a few. Following the designs laid out by the original landscape architect, Willard Gebhart, MMP created garden “rooms” of distinct styles. These include the Lunar Lawn, Rose Garden, Friendship Walk and, my favorite, the Japanese-style garden. Other structures on the estate include a dacha (a Russian country house). It is a somewhat whimsical, American adaption of a small peasant house. It is used for museum programs and changing exhibitions. On display when we visited was “Splendor & Surprise: Elegant Containers ~ Antique to Modern,” which runs through June 7. The Adirondack Building is a nod to Post’s summer retreat in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. The building is used for museum programs and exhibitions. However, it was closed for renovations the day we visited, so I can’t give you much of a description, other than to say it was rustic. The cutting garden and, particularly, the greenhouse complete the notion of “... where fabulous lives.” The greenhouse is absolutely packed with exotic orchids and flowers grown for winter arrangements. The staff does a fabulous job of providing arrangements for the mansion and visitors center. Just a note on travel to the estate and services provided at Hillwood: We took advantage of a Fairfax County Parktakes trip in conjunction with Green Spring Gardens. We enjoyed the comfort and convenience of avoiding the traffic by taking the bus! If you go on your own, check the Hillwood Web site at www. hillwoodmuseum.org for directions and Metro access. While a café with indoor seating is on site, it is undergoing renovations and has somewhat limited service. Hillwood encourages visitors to picnic on the estate at several designated areas throughout the grounds. We had lunch at some tables behind the dacha, and it was exceptionally pleasant with the dogwood and azaleas in bloom. The Post Foundation maintains Hillwood as the Hillwood Museum and Gardens. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, with a suggested entrance donation of $15 per adult. Page 12 greenbriar flyer June 2015 Greenbriar K Father’s Day Mad Libs Wacky June Holidays June 1: Flip a Coin Day Don’t you wish every decision was as easy as flipping a Julius Caesar, who would take a coin and flip it to mak was always “heads,” which, of course, carried his image decision whether to document this holiday was decided June 7: National Chocolate Ice Cream Day Who needs an excuse to eat chocolate ice cream? Not favorite flavor of ice cream! Just make sure to eat it q June 9: Donald Duck Day Happy birthday, Donald Duck. The first Donald Duck ca know that Donald Duck has a middle name? The “F” in D June 15: Smile Power Day Did you know that a smile is so powerful it can: Add years to your life; • Make you a happier person; • Make someone else a happier person; • Improve relationships; • Send a great customer service message? The fact is it is easier to smile than frown because sm to do but smile, smile, smile! June 17: Eat Your Vegetables Day This day is the perfect opportunity to eat more veggies some zucchini. Contrary to popular (kid) belief, not all veggies with every meal. Even try veggies as a snack! Y June 19: World Sauntering Day Sauntering is not a walk, jog, trot or run. Saunterin Sauntering is walking along slowly, happily and aimlessl saunter everywhere you go. Slow and steady wins the r Surf’s Up! Ha June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 13 Kids’ Korner a coin? Well, on June 1, it can be! This tradition dates back to ke decisions when the choice was unclear. The correct answer e on the coin. It is unclear who created this day, but I bet the d by the flip of a coin! y me! But on June 7, no one needs an excuse to enjoy America’s quickly … before it melts in the summer heat. artoon — “The Wise Hen” — debuted on June 9, 1934. Did you Donald F. Duck stands for “Fauntleroy.” Who knew? miling uses fewer muscles. So on this day, there is nothing left s. Don’t like broccoli? Try green beans. Dislike cauliflower? Try veggies taste gross! So on this day, you are encouraged to eat You just might be surprised that you actually like them! ng is a form of “strolling.” It is a casual form of movement. ly. On June 19, take the hustle and bustle out of your day and race, you know! Flag Day is June 14! Flag Day Word Scramble flga ___ ___ ___ ___ dre ___ ___ ___ eihtw ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ebul ___ ___ ___ ___ rstas ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ptseirs ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ mirAeca ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ethnam ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ SAU ___ ___ ___ appy Summer! Flag Day Word Scramble Answers: flag, red, white, blue, stars, stripes, America, anthem, USA Page 14 Chantilly Regional Library 4000 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly Mon.-Thurs. 10-9, Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 1-5 Registration required unless otherwise noted. Call 703-5023883, visit the library or log on to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ library/events up to two weeks before the event to register. Arrange for sign language interpreters, listening systems or real-time captioning when you register. Basic Internet and Microsoft Office Tutoring. Get one-onone help with computers, basic Microsoft Office applications and navigating the Internet. Call or visit the library to schedule an appointment. Adults. Book a Librarian. Reserve a free 30-minute session with a professional librarian for personalized research help. Call or visit the library to request an appointment. All ages. Book and Magazine Sales. Visit the hall for our ongoing sale of used books, magazines, DVDs and VHS tapes. Bookalicious. Book discussion group for students in grades 3-4. Ask for title. Monday, June 1, 4:30 p.m. Bouncin’ Babies. Rhymes, songs, stories and activities for you and your baby. Build an early literacy foundation for your child while enjoying your time together. Birth-11months with caregiver. Wednesdays, June 17 and 24, 3 p.m. Build a Bot. Do you have what it takes to build a simple robot? Come find out! All materials provided by the library. For students in grades 7-12. Tuesday, June 23, 2 p.m. Chantilly Book Discussion Group. Ask for title. Adults. No registration required. Wednesday, June 10, 7:30 p.m. greenbriar flyer bomber crews — and about people as diverse as General Curtis LeMay and artist Yoko Ono. Books will be available for sale and signing. Teens and adults. Tuesday, June 16, 7 p.m. One-on-One English Conversation Practice. Practice your English with an ESL volunteer. Register in person only. Call library for details. Adults. Parenting by Dr. Rene: Reading Aloud With Children. Join Dr. Rene Hackney, a leading parenting and child development specialist, as she offers a learning workshop on Reading Aloud With Children. Dr. Rene is dedicated to helping parents raise happy, successful children from birth through 10 years of age and to helping make families stronger. Parenting by Dr. Rene is a yearlong monthly series. Topics will change each month. Adults. Thursday, June 25, 7 p.m. Peaceful Paws. Children on the autism spectrum or with other developmental challenges meet and read to a trained therapy dog. Dakota, a gentle giant Bernese Mountain dog, is an ideal reading buddy for children with special needs. Bring your own book or choose a book from the library; however, reading is not required. Parents and siblings are welcome to join us. Call or sign up online for a 15-minute session. All ages. Saturday, June 27, 10:30 a.m. PJ Book Buddies Storytime. Join us for stories and fun that relate to Jewish culture, traditions and holidays. Enjoy movement and crafts, along with stories. Ages 2 1/2-5 with caregiver. Siblings welcome. Contact Jennifer.DeAngelis@ jccnv.org for more information. Thursday, June 4, 10:30 a.m. Read! Build! Play! Duplo Storytime. Duplo play and storytime help develop and reinforce early literacy skills. Have fun with your little one while building an early literacy foundation for reading success. Ages 18-35 months with adult. Wednesdays, June 3 and 17, 10:30 a.m. Dinosaur Babies. Dinorock presents a musical puppet show. Co-sponsored by the Friends of the George Mason Regional Library. All ages — pre-school on up. Monday, June 22, 2:30 p.m. Read! Build! Play! Duplo Storytime. Duplo play and storytime help develop and reinforce early literacy skills. Have fun with your little one while building an early literacy foundation for reading success. Ages 3-5 with adult. Wednesdays, June 3 and 17, 11:30 a.m. eBook Help. Get your eBook questions answered. No prior experience required. Please bring your tablet or e-reader and library card. Adults. Thursday, June 4, 5 p.m.; Saturday, June 20, 2 p.m.; Wednesday, June 24, 1 p.m. Ready for School Storytime. Early literacy storytime program for children ready to be on their own without caregivers or siblings. Ages 4-5. Wednesday, June 17, 2 p.m.; Friday, June 19, 2 p.m. English Conversation Group. Practice your English with other students. Adults. Tuesdays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 10:30 a.m.; Thursdays, June 4, 11, 18 and 25, 7 p.m. Small Wonders. Rhymes, songs, stories and activities for you and your baby. Build an early literacy foundation for your child while enjoying your time together. Ages 12-23 months with caregiver. Wednesdays, June 17 and 24, 4 p.m. ESL Book Club. Adults learning English meet to discuss a book chosen by the group. Ask for title. Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m. TBC — Teen Book Club. A book discussion group for teens in grades 7-10. Ask for title. Tuesday, June 2, 4:30 p.m. LEGO Block Party. Come show off your LEGO building skills! Bring your creativity, and we will provide the LEGOs. For students in grades 3-6. Tuesday, June 30, 3 p.m. Teen Advisory Board Meeting. A meeting of the Chantilly Regional Teen Advisory Board. For students in grades 7-12. Saturday, June 20, 1 p.m. LEGO Mania. Come show off your LEGO building skills! For students in grades K-2. Saturday, June 20, 12:30 p.m. The Kindercise Show. Sing and dance with Wolf Trap teaching artist John Taylor. Co-sponsored by the Friends of the Chantilly Regional Library. All ages. Please sign up each child and adult separately. Monday, June 29, 2:30 p.m. Magic and Mayhem. A sci-fi/fantasy book discussion group for children in grades 6-8. Ask for title. Tuesday, June 16, 4:30 p.m. Master Gardeners. A neighborhood plant clinic. Master Gardeners provide horticultural tips, information, techniques and advice to home gardeners. Adults. No registration required. Saturdays, June 6, 20 and 27, 10:30 a.m. Mystery Book Club. Mystery book discussion group. Ask for title. Adults. No registration required. Wednesday, June 3, 7 p.m. Narrative History: Mission to Tokyo. World War II historian and local author Robert F. Dorr will talk about the experiences of American airmen in the Pacific and his research into the lives of these flyers. Bob’s talk is drawn from his book, Mission to Tokyo, a Stephen Ambrose-style history of B-29 Superfortress The Wonderful World of Bats. Learn about bats and make a bat T-shirt. Kids can bring a white or light-colored T-shirt or buy a shirt for $4. Co-sponsored by the Friends of the George Mason Regional Library. Ages 6-12. Wednesday, June 24, 10:30 a.m. Toddlin’ Twos. Early literacy storytime with stories, songs and activities. Age 2 with caregiver. Tuesdays, June 2, 23 and 30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Touch-a-Truck Day. Climb, explore and learn about your favorite cars and trucks on wheels! Join us for a fun-filled educational public safety event. A variety of vehicles will be on display for children of all ages to explore and ask questions of their operators and handlers. All ages. No registration required. Saturday, June 13, 2 p.m. June 2015 Writers of Chantilly. Share your work, give and receive feedback in a supportive setting. Adults. No registration required. Mondays, June 1 and 15, 6:45 p.m. Shop for Fresh Food and Prizes at Farmers Markets Shop farmers markets this summer and take the Farm Fresh Pledge! You could win a monthly prize packet worth anywhere from $100 to $200. All 11 Fairfax County Park Authority Farmers Markets are open for the summer, and all of them are partnering with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to give you a chance to win prizes. Just ask any of the market vendors for a Farm Fresh Pledge card. There are 14 spots for punches on the card. Each time you spend $10 at a market, ask to have your card punched. When all 14 spots are punched, hand your card to the market master, and you’ll be entered into a monthly drawing for a Virginia Grown/Virginia’s Finest Prize Pack. More information about the program is on the VDACS Web site at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/vagrown. The Fairfax County markets are at Sherwood Library in Alexandria, Oak Marr RECenter in Oakton, Wakefield Park and Mason District Park in Annandale, Old Town Herndon, the Fairfax County Government Center in Fairfax, Lewinsville Park in McLean, Kingstowne Towne Center in Alexandria, the VRE parking lot in Burke, Lake Anne Village Center in Reston and the VRE parking lot in Lorton. At least one of them is open every day Wednesdays through Sundays into late fall. Directions and information about the Fairfax County Park Authority Farmers Markets are online at www.fairfaxcounty. gov/parks/wp-farm-mkt. Team Tyler Blood Drive Sunday, June 14 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Greenbriar Pool Parking Lot Save a Life! Donate Blood! To schedule an appointment, e-mail EricaDeMille@ gmail.com June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 15 DO YOU KNOW ... Ad Letter Publication of the Greenbriar Flyer, which comes free to you 10 months each year, is made possible by our advertisers? 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See what your Home is worth for FREE Go to www.ForSaleByDale.com click on Sellers, ! then click “What’s your Home Worth?” ! Dale Strawser 571-221-3684! Fairfax Va. 22033! 703-867-6323 DUPLICATE PROOF 703-802-2850! Please Note: Print quality may vary from final product. ct Let me help you with your next Real Estate transaction!!$ Catch A Fish contact LLC • Acupuncture Practice of Brian representative Wah LAc. e a change, please your sales or call Acupuncture-Massage-Herbs • 461-B Carlisle Drive • Herndon, VA 20170 Remax Premier! Customer Service at 1-800-929-3556. www.brianwah.com • [email protected] 13135 Lee Jackson Hwy! In netWork WItH: BLue Cross BLue sHIeLD, CIgnA, AetnA, joHns HoPkIns HeALtH 13212 PLEASANT VIEW LN Ashley Model A little bit about Dale: I was born and raised in Chantilly, went to school at Herndon Intermediate and graduated from WT Woodson High. I attended college while serving in the military and also attended George Washington University. I am a full time real estate agent and a Multi-Million Dollar Producer. My wife Anita and I live in Greenbriar (almost 20 years) and together have four sons, seven grandchildren a dog and two cats. “ Seeing and hearing how people came through this decadeÕs housing and Þnancial bust has been fascinating. Helping them with their real estate choices has been rewarding”. $ Schedule your free consultation, with Brian, today! _______________________ nt ra 4119 MEADOW HILL LN Nottingham Model Greenbriar Neighborhood Update Pain Relief natuRally. ting Information: Co nt ra ra nt Co 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Co RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL ct ct Visit our Web page www.egreenbriar.org for community information and archived copies of the Greenbriar Flyer (in color). ! ¥ ¥ ! Disclaimer: If your home is listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.! Not all of the homes listed or sold by Dale Strawser or the For Sale By Dale Team and were sold by various brokers Page 16 greenbriar flyer June 2015 June 2015 greenbriar flyer Page 17 Spring Exterior Treatment Pest Control only $119 Effective pest control service to improve your well-being and comfort in your home Family Owned & Operated Licensed & Insured Page 18 FCPS Faces Deficit of More than $100 Million; FCPS Excellence at Risk Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Superintendent Karen K. Garza issued a statement following the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors passage of the Fairfax County Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 budget on April 28: “Once again, we find that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has failed to fully fund FCPS. This is extremely disheartening — we entered this budget year making a good faith effort to work collaboratively with the Board of Supervisors. We worked for nearly a year with the County Executive and the Board of Supervisors to develop a reasonable budget that met only the very minimal needs of FCPS, and in the end, they did not deliver. “Supervisors are sending a clear message that they are unconcerned about the increasing challenges of our students, our teachers and our schools. The supervisors refused to fully fund our budget for the 2015-16 school year (FY 2016) when faced with a nominal $7.6 million deficit. We have grave concerns as to what will happen in the 2016-17 (FY 2017) school year when we face a devastating shortfall of more than $100 million. “The entire Fairfax County community has a critical decision to make: either we invest the necessary funds in our students and schools, or we will have to work together to decide what to cut — and we cannot cut our way to excellence. “Due to years of chronic underfunding, coupled with a decade of significant enrollment growth and increasing student needs, we will not be able to sustain the current quality nor the full range of academic programming we currently offer our students. We have sought to protect the classroom to date, but with the scale of the FY 2017 shortfall, we will have to take a serious look at the programs that we must cut starting in the 2016-17 school year. These cuts will likely affect all current academic programming, including limiting elective choices, reducing career and technical programs, impacting advanced offerings, and again raising class sizes at all levels. We must make these difficult choices by December 2015 because students begin their course selections in January 2016. “Since 2008, we have cut 2,175 positions and nearly a half-billion dollars from our budget affecting every school and department. We have fallen so far behind in teacher salaries that we are no longer competitive and are losing talented staff to neighboring school districts. Our teachers are the reason FCPS students excel and achieve. Losing our most experienced teachers will have a significant effect on student performance and will ultimately affect the reputation of FCPS. greenbriar flyer “Fairfax County Public Schools are frequently cited as one of the main reasons that businesses choose to relocate to the county. Fairfax has some of the highest property values in the country, but without excellent schools as a foundation, corporate investment in Fairfax and property values will decline. “In the education of our children, every year matters; we cannot hope to make up deficits in their education in their later years. It is critical we take action now. “I hope our community will join me to #saveFCPS.” For more information, contact the FCPS Office of Communication and Community Relations at 571-423-1200. Fairfax County School Board Approves FY 2016 Budget The Fairfax County School Board has adopted the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) FY 2016 Approved Budget of $2.6 billion, which includes a step increase for all eligible employees and a market scale adjustment of 0.62 percent. The FY 2016 budget is an increase of $53.9 million, or 2.2 percent, over the FY 2015 Approved Budget. The budget includes an increase in the county transfer to the School Operating Fund of 3.2 percent, or $56.7 million, above the FY 2015 Approved Budget, which is $14.0 million less than requested in FCPS’ Advertised Budget. The revenue shortfall is partially offset by an increase in state aid and a reduction in the employer contribution to the Virginia Retirement System. Still, the Board needed to identify an additional $7.6 million in reductions, which was achieved by reducing the planned 1.0 percent market scale adjustment for employees to 0.62 percent. “This year’s revenue shortfall did not allow us to provide the full 1.0 percent market scale adjustment for employees that we had hoped we could fund; however, we remain resolved and dedicated to have employee compensation competitive with our neighboring school districts,” says School Board Chair Tammy Derenak Kaufax. “It is critical that we attract and retain the talented and skilled workforce necessary to support the increasing educational needs of our growing student population.” The FY 2016 Approved Budget, which takes effect July 1, provides for an additional $22.1 million to cover the cost of enrollment increases and demographic changes, $4.9 million to implement the new start time schedule for students this fall, and $3.9 million to address large class sizes in targeted elementary schools. The Approved Budget contains reductions totaling $61.4 million. Since 2008, FCPS has reduced its operating budget by nearly half a billion dollars and eliminated more than 2,175 positions. June 2015 “Looking ahead, the funding challenges we face will continue in FY 2017 with a budget shortfall projected to be more than $100 million,” added Derenak Kaufax. “Without sufficient funding, future reductions will result in direct cuts to programs, requiring difficult choices that will impact our students, schools and community. We recognize that the Board of Supervisors cares about our great schools and shares our vision to make education our community’s top priority. We also recognize that there are no easy answers to our budget challenges. We will continue to work with the Board of Supervisors, along with state and federal representatives, to find solutions that support our students, families, teachers and staff, maintaining FCPS’ reputation for excellence.” Additional budget details are available www.fcps.edu/ news/fy2016. Fairfax County School Board Requests Supervisors to Place Bond Referendum on November Ballot The Fairfax County School Board has approved a resolution to request that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors place a school bond referendum for $310,000,000 on the ballot for the November 2015 general election. Out of the $352.5 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects listed in the bond referendum, the county currently already has bonding authority for $42.5 million. Consequently, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) only need to seek bonding authority for $310 million in new bond sales. The referendum will provide construction funds for an addition at South Lakes High School; renovations at Herndon and West Springfield High Schools and six elementary schools (Cherry Run, Hollin Meadows, Newington Forest, Stratford Landing, Waynewood and White Oaks); three modular building relocations; planning funds for a new elementary school in the northwest portion of the county; and for the planning of renovations at three elementary schools (Annandale Terrace, Clearview and Silverbrook) and two middle schools (Cooper and Hughes). Funds from the 2015 bond referendum are identified in the FY 2016-20 CIP, which estimates that FCPS enrollment will be approximately 198,000 students by the 2019-20 school year. Staff members from the FCPS Department of Facilities and Transportation Services have been working with Fairfax County staff members to reconcile unused authority from multiple bond referendums over an extended period of time, an exercise that is performed periodically for all local government entities that use bond funds. It will reflect cumulative project savings over time, allowing the school district to request less bonding authority for projects currently identified for funding. The reconciliation does not alter the current annual cash flow allowance of $155 million from the county. The cost of the FY 2016-20 CIP over five years is $856 million. Additional information about projects that will be funded by this bond referendum is available online at www.fcps.edu/ fts/planning/cip/cipbookfy2016-20.pdf. Next Greenbriar Flyer Deadline June 8, 2015, 7 P.M. June 2015 61 Sports Events over 10 Days County hosting 2015 World Police & Fire Games. by Bonnie Hobbs, Centre View* A huge event on a scale Fairfax County has never before seen — that’s the 2015 World Police & Fire Games. It’ll run June 26-July 5 and promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for area residents. “We expect more than 12,000 first responders from more than 70 countries,” said county police Major Rich Perez, who’s heading up security. “There’ll be 61 sporting events spanning 10 days with more athletes than the summer Olympic Games.” Perez is in charge of bringing together 37 federal, local and state entities to provide security for the events. These groups include the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia State Police, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the TSA, ATF, and Department of State. The World Police & Fire Games started in San Diego, California, in 1985; they are held every two years. “We’re celebrating the camaraderie, honor, courage and athleticism of first responders from around the world,” said MPO Michelle DuBois, one of the county Police Department’s athletic outreach ambassadors. Both active and retired fire and law enforcement personnel will be competing. “This is the 30th anniversary of the games, so there’ll be dignitaries here, too,” said DuBois. “And it’s also the 75th anniversary of the Fairfax County Police Department.” The official Web site is www.Fairfax2015.com and, said Perez, “It’s getting 9 million hits a day. The local, economic impact is expected to be $70 million to $80 million for those 10 days.” That’s because, in addition to the athletes themselves, an estimated 30,000 visitors are expected to attend the games here. Some 80 county firefighters and 50 county police officers are registered to participate, including Police Chief Ed Roessler Jr. “He registered for the triathlon and has been diligently working out and preparing for it,” said Perez. Some other local first responders will be defending their awards won previously. Fire Department Battalion Chief Jerome Williams won a gold medal in stair climbing in the last games, which were held in New York. And county police officer Lt. Mark Kidd is the current gold medal holder in darts. But all the participants are special, said Bill Knight, president of the World Police & Fire Games. “These athletes are truly heroes from around the world,” he said. “And they deserve to be treated like Olympians.” The various athletic competitions will be held at 53 venues, but more than 70 percent of the games will take place in Fairfax County. Athletes will participate in events including archery, badminton, baseball, beach volleyball, bench press, billiards, body building, bowling, boxing, cross country, cycling, darts, dodge ball, flag football, golf, hockey, judo, karate, lacrosse, half marathon, motocross, motorcycle and mountain biking. They’ll also vie in orienteering, paintball, pistol and rifle competitions, police service dogs, rowing, rugby, skeet shooting, soccer, softball, swimming, table tennis, tae kwon do, tennis, track and field, triathlon, ultimate firefighter, volleyball, wrestling and wrist wrestling. Several of the events will be held in local communities. There’ll be baseball at Westfield High; Toughest Competitor Alive at Cub Run RECenter; clay, skeet and trap shooting at Bull Run Regional Park; a cycling and police driving track in Chantilly; darts at the Fairfax County Police Association Hall in Fairfax; and lacrosse at Centreville High. George Mason University will host baseball games, as well as basketball, bodybuilding, boxing, swimming, tennis, and track and field. The half marathon and honor guard competitions, plus the athlete village and check-in, will be at Reston Town Center. Martial arts will be held at NOVA’s Ernst Center, and weightlifting will be at the Herndon Community Center. Meanwhile, archery, cycling, mountain biking and orienteering will take place in Fairfax Station’s Fountainhead Regional Park. And Tysons Corner will host dodge ball and stair racing. Mass transit will be used as much as possible to transport the athletes to and from each venue. “There’s no cost to attend and view any of the events,” said DuBois. “So we encourage people to bring their families and friends to them and enjoy.” 2015 World Police & Fire Games continued on page 21. greenbriar flyer Page 19 Greenbriar on the Web Greenbriar has several presences on the Web: www.egreenbriar.org Facebook page at www.facebook.com/we-are.greenbriar Private social network, part of the Nextdoor community, at ww.greenbriarfairfax.nextdoor.com/news_feed The Web page at www.egreenbriar.org is PayPal enabled to simplify annual membership payments for the Greenbriar Civic Association — still only $25 per year. Our monthly Greenbriar Flyer newspaper is archived on this site. You can also find our events calendar and Cale Community Center rental information. We-Are Greenbriar, our Facebook presence, is often used to announce school events, roadwork and Fairfax County Park Authority activities. Use it in typical Facebook fashion, and remember that this is a public forum, open and shared with all. Nextdoor Greenbriar Fairfax is a wonderful site for classifieds, free items and giveaways, crime and safety updates, contractor recommendations, lost and found, upcoming events, and many other categories. Page 20 greenbriar FCPA Offers More Than 1,400 Summer Day Camp Experiences The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) offers more than 1,400 summer day camp options at more than 100 locations. Camps held at RECenters, historic sites, lakefront parks and schools offer a variety of camp formats throughout Fairfax County. Children will find plenty of fun and build friendships. FCPA camps provide a safe, rewarding summer experience for children ranging in age from three to 17. From traditional crafts and games to high-tech and high adventure, FCPA has something for everyone. Many camps offer swimming at county RECenters each day. Sports enthusiasts can choose from an array of skilldevelopment camps, including British soccer, basketball, football, baseball, cheerleading, archery, lacrosse or extreme sports programs. Enjoy the outdoors? Then check out boating, fishing or biking camps. Specialty camps, such as Young Chef’s Cooking, Chess, Geocaching and Girl’s Leadership, allow for the exploration of new interests or development of new skills. There is also an array of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programs that stimulate cognitive development and enhance critical thinking. Some of the new and exciting camp offerings for 2015 include ninja stars, long boarding, Brazilian soccer, overnight camp, stand-up paddle boarding, kayak fishing, fun new art camps and new engineering camps. The Rec-PAC program, offered at 48 elementary schools throughout the community for grades one through six, offers parents a low-cost, neighborhood alternative. This theme-based camp program operates from June 29 through August 6 and includes crafts, games and special events each week. Young teens too old for this program can gain valuable experience through the Counselor-In-Training (CIT) program. You can find information about all the summer camps, plus classes for kids and adults, special events and more, in Parktakes Magazine. For registration, call 703-222-4664 weekdays from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. or visit online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ parks/camps/rec-camps.htm. flyer June 2015 The Chantilly Library and the Sully District Police Station present... Touch ! E E FR Saturday, June 13th, 2015 2-5 P.M. 4000 Stringfellow Road A Chantilly, Virginia Truck Live music, child fingerprinting and MORE! Forget toy trucks and cars! Kids can get an close up look at the real thing! Climb, explore and learn about your favorite cars and trucks on wheels! Questions? Please call 703-814-7051 or email [email protected] Free parking will be available at Chantilly HS across the street from library This document is available in an alternate format upon request. Please call the Fairfax County Police Department at 703-814-7000 TTY 711. Allow seven working days for preparation of the material. Greenbriar A N I M A L H O S P I TA L Award-winning care for your best friend 13035C Lee Jackson Memorial Highway Fairfax, Virginia 22033 Your pet will receive the best medical care we can provide in a low stress, pet-friendly environment. Expect lots of individual attention, an emphasis on preventive health care, and an attention to details! Dr. Candy Olson Next Greenbriar Flyer Deadline June 12, 2015, 7 P.M. ♥ 30-minute appointments every day ♥ Now open most Saturdays ♥ Same-Day Sick Pet Appointments ♥ Microchips (permanent ID your pet can’t lose) ♥ Safe, very closely monitored anesthesia ♥ In-House Laboratory (fast results for your pet) Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM –7:00 PM; some Saturdays 8:00 AM-2:00 PM www.GAHPets.com (703) 378-8813 KIMBRELL LANDSCAPE & CONSTRUCTION 703-963-0960 • Patios • Walkways • Retaining Walls • Drainage • Landscaping & Plantings All Work Guaranteed Licensed & Insured • Great References June 2015 greenbriar 2015 World Police & Fire Games continued from page 19. flyer Page 21 Owners are Neighborhood Residents (Melville Lane, 23 years) Top Rated by Leading Consumer Magazine But such a huge undertaking can’t be accomplished without volunteers, and some 4,000 of them are needed. Signups are at www.fairfax2015.com/volunteer. “We need medical personnel at each venue to cover the athletes, volunteers and spectators,” said DuBois. “People are also needed to check in the athletes and direct them to the next station. Volunteers must be 18 or older and able to read, write and communicate in English. They must also pass a background check to keep everybody safe.” Urging people not to pass up this opportunity to lend a hand, she said, “You can play a key role in one of the largest, multisport, multi-venue events in the world. Instead of just watching, you can be a part of history.” *Reprinted with permission from the Centre View, May 6-12, 2015, edition. Family Owned and Operated (28 Years, Same Location) National Carpet & Interiors Carpet * Hardwood * Laminates * Vinyl * Tile * Rugs * We are proud of our many satisfied clients in the neighborhood (referrals available) * Independent Dealer which means we sell different manufacturers' products for more choices and BEST PRICES * From builder's grade for resale to high-end products Huge Savings On Our * Non-Commissioned Sales Staff Shop at Home www.YourCarpetGuys.com Prices! 703-966-4040/703-631-5233 703-594-GROW (4769) Plantings • Patios • Lawn Care A Custom Landscape Design Build & Maintenance Company Keep a good thing growing with Mason’s! www.MasonsLandscape.com Donate Unwanted Items Pender Regift Thrift Store 4447C Brookfield Corp. Drive Chantilly VA 20151 703 378-7371 [email protected] 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays – Saturdays Distributing goods to the poor. ϭϮϴϭϵWŽŝŶƚWůĞĂƐĂŶƚƌ ƐƐĞdžDŽĚĞů ϰĞĚͻϮ͘ϱĂƚŚ RULES: $1 per length swum (cash or check made payable to Greenbriar Swim Team) — any additional pledges are welcome and will be collected at the event. WHEN: Sunday, June 28 From 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. WHERE: Greenbriar Pool CHARITIES SUPPORTED: - Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America - To Write Love on Her Arms - Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - Money will be evenly split between these charities REQUIREMENTS TO PARTICIPATE: - Must be able to swim at least 1 length unassisted 'HEELH'R÷UXO$VVRFLDWHV SWIM FOR HEALTH 1XPEHURI)DLUID[6DOHV 7RS05,65HDOWRUVIURPDOOFRPSDQLHV ϭϯϭϭϬWŽŝŶƚWůĞĂƐĂŶƚƌ ƐƐĞdžDŽĚĞů ϰĞĚͻϮ͘ϱĂƚŚ ϭϯϭϰϳWĂǀŝůŝŽŶ>Ŷ 'ĞŽƌŐĞƚŽǁŶDŽĚĞů ϰĞĚͻϮ͘ϱĂƚŚ 'HEELH'R÷UXO $VVRFLDWHV 5HDOWRURU 5HDOWRURU 5HDOWRURU 5HDOWRURU 5HDO(VWDWH7HDP 5HDO(VWDWH7HDP5HDO(VWDWH7HDP5HDO(VWDWH7HDP Û ,Q''$VROGRYHU)285WLPHVDVPDQ\KRXVHV LQ)DLUID[DVDQ\RWKHU5HDOWRURU5HDO(VWDWH7HDP 6XSSRUWLQJRXUWURRSV DWKRPHDQGDEURDG ::: 7 ($0''$&20 Page 22 greenbriar flyer June 2015 Greenbriar Garden continued from page 24. Chinese redbud, C. Chinensis, is native to China and Japan and is a multi-stemmed tall shrub around 10 feet tall; it is hardy in zones 6-9. This showy plant flowers more prolifically than native redbuds in a deep rose-purple color. The leaves are a bright green. ‘Shirobana’ has milky white flowers. ‘Avondale’ is considered the finest flowering of this species with rosy purple blooms; it is also taller in size (15 feet by 15 feet). ‘Don Egolf’ was bred at the U.S. National Arboretum; it is a hybrid of C. canadensis x C. Chinensis. It is slower growing to 9 feet tall by 9 feet wide. This compact plant has a super abundance of flowers but is also sterile (no seedpods). For more information, see: Clemson University, South Carolina, at www.clemson.edu/ extension Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, Michael A. Dirr, Revised 2009 Breeding Efforts in Cercis at North Carolina State University, Dennis J. Werner, Department of Horticultural Science Greenbriar Flyer policy requires name, address and phone number on all items (including classified ads) submitted for publication. If requested, this information will not be printed — it is needed for our records and in case additional information June be required. Moving? My Experience, Berkshire Hathaway reach and recognition, PenFed Credit Union with mortgage help for Buyers. Complete Real Estate services Current Greenbriar resident of 11 years Professional Market Analysis for your home or Neighborhood report for your destination Full Service Moving (no obligation) estimate from JK Moving Services - one point of contact through your relocation Free Moving Kit Additional savings on your move when you List your home with Dennis.* You shouldn’t choose your Realtor® from a pool of one. Berkshire Hathaway HS PenFed Realty - 703-691-7653 3050 Chain Bridge Rd., suite 105, Fairfax, VA 22030 . © 2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An Independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.* Contact Dennis to discuss savings based on your specific situa on. Dennis Bell - Realtor® [email protected] Proud member of June 2015 greenbriar flyer CLASSIFIED ADS CLASSIFIED AD RULES: 1. All non-business ads (For Sale, Garage Sales, Wanted, etc.) are free to Greenbriar residents. 2. All business type ads (Products & Services, For Rent, Child Care Providers, etc.) cost $5 each for both residents and nonresidents. Fee must be submitted with ad. 3. Ads are limited to 5 lines, longer ads will be edited to fit. 4. Instead of submitting monthly ads and payment, advertisers June pay for classified ads in advance. 5. The deadline for classified ads is the second Friday of each month (first Friday in November). 6. Your name, home address and phone number must be included with the ad for our records. 7. Non-business ads by Greenbriar residents June be e-mailed to: [email protected]. All other ads must be dropped off at the Flyer drop box or mailed to: Greenbriar Flyer, 4615 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly, VA 20151. 8. All classified ads are free to the volunteers of the Greenbriar Flyer. EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised, the Flyer does not personally endorse anyone’s classified ad. POOL MEMBERSHIP FOR RENT/SALE – Greenbriar pool membership. Call Jean at 703-795-0215. FOR SALE BANJO – Brand new in case, never played, $300; Fish aquarium, $20. Call 703-956-6606. BICYCLES – Two boy’s 18” bikes, blue Rally and black Huffy, with free helmets, $35 each or make offer. Call 703-378-5168. POOL TABLE – Mizerak 8’ champion drop pocket pool table with all accessories and owner’s manual, $400. Call Jean at 703795-0215. ELECTRIC GUITAR – Epiphone special SG model electric guitar with amp, stand, soft carry case, learn to play book and CD. Brand new, never used, $200. Call Jean at 703-795-0215. TWIN BEDS – Two solid wood head boards, foot boards with wooden side rails, $150 each or both for $250; RCA VCR, $10; Sanyo 13” TV with remote, $20; gas weed whacker, $75. Call Jean at 703-795-0215. MICROWAVES – Panasonic 1300W, white, $20; Panasonic stainless steel, $40. Call Jean at 703-795-0215. DESKS – Student desk, painted white, solid wood, 3 drawers each side plus one center top drawer, $250; desk, wood, brown stain, made in Thailand, one center drawer, $150. Call Jean at 703-795-0215. PRESSURE WASHING/PAINTING/HANDYMAN SERVICE – Over 17 years of experience pressure washing, sealing & staining, decks, fences, concrete; pressure washing siding; interior & exterior house painting; general handyman services. Licensed & insured. Please call 703-378-8645 for a free estimate. Page 23 CHILD CARE OPENING – Twenty-one years experienced provider with state license, CPR, MAT and First Aid trained. Loving home, preschool curriculum, USDA food program, big yard and lots of activities. Call Helen for an interview at 703-818-0017. WANTED BASKETBALL HOOP – Want outdoor basketball hoop for my teens to play in driveway. Please call Ms. Smith at 703-6227473. Thank you. FOR HIRE – Someone who will take the trash and recycling bins from the porch to the street each week. We are on Majestic Lane near the shopping center. Call Mrs. Higgins at 703-3784726. If no answer, leave message with your name and phone number. Thank you. Rent the Cale Community Center for your next event! JENKINS TREE SERVICE – Topping, trimming, mulching, edging, fertilizing and tree removal. Insured, bonded and licensed. Free estimates and reasonable rates. Call 703-830-2654 or 540-422-9721. Call 703-378-6911. DOORS AND LOCKS – Door locks and light door work. Over 30 years of experience. Call Ron at 540-687-5975. Have a pothole in your street? Report it to VDOT. Call 1-800-367-7623. TREE AND SHRUB CARE – Removals/stump grinding, disease/pest diagnosis, pruning/tree planting. Results based on effective communication; free estimates by a certified arborist. Call 703-203-2852 or see our website for a 10% discount: twinbrooketreecare.com. NOTARY SERVICE – Call GB residents Leona (Lee) or Ed Conley at 703-266-7032. for appointment. ADDITIONS, KITCHENS, BATHS – Enhancing Greenbriar since 1992. Call S. Dockweiler, a GB resident, at 703-968-3362. No contractor has done more or better since the community was built. SWIM LESSONS – Private swim lessons. I am an experienced lifeguard/manager, 10 years on GB swim team, JMU college student. Taught swim lessons for the past 4 summers. Children and adults welcome. Please call Monica at 571-338-2419 or [email protected]. Send inquiries regarding layout advertising to greenbriarflyer@hotmail. com. A signed contract is required. PRODUCTS & SERVICES HOUSECLEANING – Weekly, bi-weekly, every three weeks, monthly, periodically, move in/out. I am licensed, bonded and insured. I am a Greenbriar resident with good references. I have 9 years of experience and low rates. Please call Maria Barreda at 703-378-4059 or 703-856-2512. JOANNE’S PET CARE – Loving care for your pets in your home and mid-day dog walks. Many references. Reduced rates for Greenbriar residents. Licensed and insured. Please call Joanne Woodward at 703-434-9162 or email [email protected] ROOFING/SIDING/GUTTERS – Repairs or replacement, gutter cleaning, roof certifications for buyers and sellers. Reasonable rates. Quick response. Meadows Roof Inspection Services. Call Birk Meadows at 703-876-4808. PIANO LESSONS – Learn to play the piano at Rebecca’s Piano Studio in Greenbriar. Ages 6 to adult. Call Miss Becky at 703307-4967 or email [email protected] for more information. HOME IMPROVEMENT SVCS – Fences, windows, doors, additions and decks. Windows and doors are Energy Star rated with long warranties for material and labor. Supply all choices of windows: vinyl, fiberglass and wood. Very competitive prices. Call Martin Strachan at 571-484-6514 for a free estimate. Currently Enrolling for the 2015-2016 School Year Developmental approach to learning for 3-5 year olds Child to Adult Ratio of 5:1 Activities focus on language, science, & math Arts and crafts, music and movement Pleasant Valley Preschool is a non-profit cooperative preschool founded in 1977. We are located in the Cale Community Center, 4615 Stringfellow Road in Fairfax. We are fully licensed by the State of Virginia and members of the Virginia Coop Preschool Council. 703-378-6911 www.pleasantvalleypreschool.com Page 24 greenbriar flyer June 2015 Cale Community Center June 2015 Sunday Monday 1 Tuesday 2 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Bando M ar tial Arts Wednesday 3 1:30 PM Bridge Group Thursday Friday 4 7:15 PM -9:15 PM Inova 5 6:00 PM - 11:00 P M C YA M eeti ng Saturday 6 6:00 PM -10:00 PM Rented 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM Rented 7:30 PM GCA 7 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM New Hope Fellowshi p Chur ch 14 8 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Bando M ar tial Arts 15 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM New Hope Fellowshi p Chur ch 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM GCA Member Drive Kickoff 21 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM New Hope Fellowshi p Chur ch 9 1:30 PM Bridge Group 16 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Bando M ar tial Arts 1:30 PM Bridge Group 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 25 26 27 7:15 PM -9:15 PM Inova 6:30 PM - 11:00 P M R ented 7:15 PM -9:15 PM Inova 7:30 PM W oman's Club 22 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Bando M ar tial Arts 23 1:30 PM Bridge Group 24 7:15 PM -9:15 PM Inova 10:00 AM -12:00 PM Rented 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Greenbr iar Garden Club 28 29 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM New Hope Fellowshi p Chur ch 30 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Bando M ar tial Arts 1:30 PM Bridge Group Rent the Cale Community Center [email protected] Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul. — John Muir The Late-spring Garden by Charlotte Simson The cold temperatures of late winter seemed to hold on through March and well into April. I began to wonder if spring would ever arrive until the forsythia began to bloom at the end of March. Now it is amazing how quickly those cool temperatures have morphed into summer’s heat. Flowers, such as native dogwoods and redbuds, that were in full bloom not long ago have faded away in mid-eighty degree temperatures. One of the advantages of cooler temperatures was the reduction of bugs. The days are now very warm, and insect repellant is again part of our gardening equipment. I believe the seasons are back on track. One of the joys of spring in Northern Virginia is our native eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis). Every April, their reddishpurple flowers brighten the landscape. Before the disease Discula destructiva destroyed most of our native dogwoods, the combination of white dogwoods and magenta redbuds blooming in the wild was a joy to behold. Now, most native dogwoods are only found blooming in our yards. A few varieties have managed to resist the disease, and there is hope they will repopulate our woodlands and byways. There are 22 distinct species (or subspecies) of Cercis, or redbuds, and they are found in North America, Asia and Europe. They are deciduous and flower in March through May (depending on the species). C. siliquastrum is known as the Judas tree, or Mediterranean redbud, and is found in Europe. In North America, there are three genotypes, Cercis canadensis, texensis and mexicana; they grow from southern Canada to northern Mexico; each species acclimated to the local climate. This excellent tree or large shrub is fairly easy to grow. It is adaptable to many types of soils as long as the ground is not continually wet. The native eastern redbud is cold tolerant in zones 4-9; it is found from Minnesota east to New England and south to Florida. It is an under-story tree and prefers part shade or full sun; it does well in our hot, humid summers. The species can grow to 25-30 feet tall with a canopy of up to 25 feet wide. Rich green leaves are broadly heart-shaped, 4-6 inches long; in autumn, the leaves turn butter yellow. Most stems are dark brown and grow in an interesting zigzag pattern. In early April, the half-inch sized, sweet pea-shaped flowers are rosy-purple and grow in clusters along the stems and even on the tree trunk. The redbud is a legume; the fruit is a true pod, blackish-brown and 3-4 inches long. Newly planted trees must be kept stressfree, meaning they must be watered during drought or low-rain periods until well established. The eastern redbud is usually a healthy tree, but a number of insect pests and diseases can attack them. The insects can be borers, white peach scale, or sucking or chewing pests such as leafhoppers, caterpillars and granulate ambrosia beetles. Actually finding the insect is the best way to determine what pesticide to use. A variety of fungal leaf spots can attack the leaves, usually during warm, humid weather; if they become a serious problem, there are fungicidal sprays available. More serious is Botryosphaeria canker, Verticillium wilt and Xylaria polymorpha root rot; these usually kill the tree. Redbuds are also highly susceptible to post-emergence broadleaf herbicide drift. Eastern redbuds have made a great leap in both varieties and cultivars; it seems that every year there are two to three new ones. So far, I’ve counted 33 cultivars (I’m sure there will be more next year), including the C. texensis cultivars. These trees differ slightly from C. canadensis; their leaves are slightly smaller, leathery or glossy green. They are also considered more drought tolerant. Here is a small selection of trees that contain different shapes and foliage colors. Most of these (and others) are easily available: ‘Forest Pansy’ is one of the most popular C. canadensis cultivars. The flowers are bright magenta in April, followed by the new foliage, which emerges a rich purple. By mid-August, the leaves have faded to green before turning yellow in the autumn. This tree grows to 20 feet tall into a wide canopy. ‘Royal White’ is a selection with an abundance of white flowers and is considered to have good cold hardiness. This tree grows to 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide. ‘Appalachian Red’ has the deepest, bright pink flowers of all redbuds, so far. Its green leaves and growth pattern is the same as the species. ‘Floating Clouds’ has white and green marbled foliage that is more tolerant of full sun than other variegated cultivars. ‘The Rising Sun’ was a 2012 PHS Gold Medal winner. In April, its flowers are a rosy orchid. The new foliage unfolds a bright orange or apricot; it then matures to gold, then yellow into chartreuse. It grows 10-12 feet tall and is considered very heat tolerant; it is hardy in zones 5-8. ‘Little Woody’ is considered a dwarf that grows slowly to 10 feet tall. The leaves have a thick, bumpy surface; the branches are tight and shrubby; the flowers are a deep pink. ‘Lavender Twist’ (Covey) is a weeping form with green foliage. Its umbrella shape can grow to 10 feet tall by 8 feet wide and is hardy in zones 5-7. ‘Ruby Falls’ is also a weeping form, but the foliage is deep burgundy; it grows to 8 feet tall by 8 feet wide. C. texensis cultivars reach 15-25 feet tall and are hardy in zones 6-9. ‘Oklahoma’ has dark red-purple flowers; ‘Texas’ has white flowers. ‘Traveler’ has a broad, weeping form of approximately 8 feet tall by 10 feet wide. The flowers are dark red to purple. The new foliage opens rich copper-red and matures to glossy, deep green. Greenbriar Garden continued on page 22.
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