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‘Big, Bright, Bold’ and Funny, Too

Timeless Tale of Love, Grace and RedemptionNews, Page 3

‘Funny and Engaging Script and Story’News, Page 2

Posing in character for Chantilly High’s children’s play, “Waking Sleeping Beauty,” are (from left) Shyenne Farrell, Sheershi-ka Mittapally and Tyler Hicks.

2 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

By Bonnie Hobbs

The Connection

Summer SMASH-UP(Stage, Music, Acting,Singing and Hamming itUp) is a theater and per-

forming arts camp in Centrevillefor students, 7-15. It’s now in itsfourth year and, over a two-weekperiod led by experienced per-formers and counselors, camperslearn a variety of music and the-ater skills including scene study,set and costume design, and cho-reography.

Along the way, they learn howto think creatively and work to-gether as a team, while having agood time. And it all culminatesin the production of an originalmusical written by the camp direc-tors. This year’s show is “TheVeterinarian’s Quest: A BeaumontBoarding School Mystery.”

It will be presented Friday, July19, at 2 p.m., at Centreville BaptistChurch, 15100 Lee Highway(Route 29/Pleasant Valley Road in-tersection). Go to Entrance 5 in the

back of the church to get to the per-formance. The show is open to thepublic; tickets are $5 at the door.

THE ACTORS hail from schoolsincluding Virginia Run, Bull Runand Cub Run elementaries, Stoneand Rocky Run middle schools,and Westfield High. And the story,a musical comedy, follows a young

student named Quinn who re-ceives a mysterious invitation toenroll for free at the prestigiousBeaumont Boarding School, anelite prep school in the mountainsof New England.

Its graduates become titans ofindustry and pillars of society; andat first, Quinn is grateful to bethere. But what’s really behind the

seemingly limitless resourcesavailable in all aspects of life atBeaumont?

How do its students seem to bethe best at anything and every-thing, from sports to academics,without exception? And who’s themysterious Beaumont veterinar-ian? Why is he lurking about aschool that boasts no animals, andwhat secrets do he and the Beau-mont headmistress hold?

Along the way, Quinn finds thatthe choice between destiny andfriendship isn’t always an easyone. He also learns what it reallymeans to live a life of which hecan be proud.

“With a funny and engagingscript and story written by BillReidway, plus new songs like“Never Trust the Veterinarian,”“Spotlight” and “We’ve Got Plentyof Pasta,” audience members aresure to have a great time,” saidproducer Toby Chieffo-Reidway.She’s a professional actor who alsoruns an after-school acting, impro-visation and theater-writing pro-gram at Virginia Run Elementary,

“Our mission at SummerSMASH-UP is to give every studenta chance to shine in their own

unique way on stage, and to ex-plore new passions and talentsthey didn’t even know they had,”she explained. “Theater and mu-sic can bring out the best in bothchildren and adults, and our camp-ers demonstrate such an incrediblecapacity for teamwork and dedi-cation. It’s really very humbling towatch.”

MUSIC DIRECTOR JeremiahTyler teaches music at Virginia Runand composed the show’s originalmusic. “This year, we put togethera story that is both funny and up-lifting, with a great message andmore music, dancing and comedythan we’ve ever tried before,” hesaid.

“This is an all-new productionwith all-new songs,” continuedTyler. “These amazing kids hearthe songs for the first time, on theirfirst day at camp. And then, 10days later, they’re performingthem live for an audience – underlights and in costume. As teach-ers, there’s something absolutelymagical about setting the bar sohigh and watching it all come to-gether – and we are so proud tobe a part of it.”

Summer SMASH-UP presents musical-comedy mystery.‘Funny and Engaging Script and Story’

Photo Courtesy of Irish Eyes Photography by Toby

Some of the 40 cast members are (from left) EmilyShort, Katie Powderly, Chase Davenport, Allison Mills,Kiran Weaver, Sean Larrazabol, Grace Dieuveille andDarcy Marcoux.

Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

See Chantilly, Page 6

See Westfield, Page 6

By Bonnie Hobbs

The Connection

Featuring a cast and crew of 70,Westfield Summer Stage Presents“Les Mis rables” (school edition).It will burst upon the stage July

19, 20, 26 and 27, at 7 p.m.; and July 21 at2 p.m. at Westfield High. Rated PG, ticketsare $15 via www.westfieldtheatre.com orwww.itickets.com/events/429505. All seatsare reserved.

An epic, uplifting story of love, passion,sacrifice and redemption, Victor Hugo’s clas-sic novel comes to life in this Tony Award-winning musical. Set in late 1700s-early1800s France, it follows the life of JeanValjean, released after 20 years of wrong-ful imprisonment.

However, he finds nothing but mistrustand mistreatment, so – hoping to start a newlife – he breaks his parole and begins a life-long struggle for redemption. But he’s re-lentlessly pursued by police inspectorJavert. Along the way, Valjean agrees to takecare of Cosette, daughter of a poor factory

worker named Fantine.During the Paris student uprising of 1832,

Javert must confront his ideals after Valjeanspares his life and saves that of student revo-lutionary Marius, who’s captured Cosette’sheart. And Valjean and others are caughtup in the French Revolution.

“The show’s theme revolves around graceand forgiveness,” said Director RachelHarrington. “And that story is told through

characters who are gritty and downtrodden.But it’s a perfect representation of the reli-gious undertones that keep reappearingthroughout the story.”

She said a lyric in one of the final songsties together the play’s meaning: “To loveanother person is to see the face of God.”And just like that phrase, said Harrington,“Characters throughout the show receiveGodlike grace from other people; and by

loving others, we can extend this grace and,therefore, receive redemption.”

MUSIC DIRECTOR is Jon Blank; chore-ographer, Jonathan Faircloth; and vocal di-rector, Carol Jones. Scenes take place onthe streets of Revolutionary France, a dock,in a cathedral and at various houses andstores. And since many, different, socialclasses are represented, the characters willwear everything from rags to the finest,high-society attire.

“Our cast comprises a multitude of tal-ented, young students from throughout thecounty,” said Harrington. “They hold them-selves to high, professional standards, andthat shines through in their performances.The audience will love the spectacular vo-cals; I get goosebumps every time I hearthe ensemble sing together. The music isbeautiful, and I’m so excited about it – andwe have a killer cast who love being here.”

Portraying Valjean is Westfield rising se-nior John Henry Stamper. “He’s a man seek-ing redemption,” said Stamper. “He’s noble,wise, caring, just and forgiving. His wholelife, he attempts to do right by everybody,For example, he takes care of Fantine’sdaughter, Cosette, and is really selfless.”

Calling it a “dream role” of his, Stamperis excited about it. “I’ve loved this show for

By Bonnie Hobbs

The Connection

Mathilda the fairy means well– she just keeps messing up –so the seven fairies don’t in-

clude her in their events. But they let hercome to a party for Princess Aurora’s newbaby and, sure enough, she accidentallycurses the infant with sleep. So Mathildaand the other fairies go on a journey tofind the princess’s true love and undo thecurse.

That’s the premise of Chantilly High’sSummer Theater production of “WakingSleeping Beauty,” a children’s show run-ning Thursday-Saturday, July 11, 12, 13,at 11 a.m. each day. Tickets are $5 at thedoor or via chantillyhsdrama.com. Thecast and crew of 27 features students ineighth through 12 grades.

“Things are going great,” said Direc-tor Shannon Spicer. “We have a cohesivegroup of students who’ve really gottento know and appreciate each other’s tal-ents very quickly. Since we only have six,four-hour rehearsals to put on an entireshow, they’ve really come together toensure a quality production.”

“We have a multitude of fun and en-gaging characters whose personalitiesare reflected by their bright and colorful

costumes,” she continued. “For example,one fairy is sassy, another is mean, one isshy, another is a perfectionist – and it’ll showin the design, colors and fabrics of theirclothing.”

PORTRAYING MATHILDA is juniorSheershika Mittapally. “Mathilda is inno-cent, crazy and over-the-top,” she said. “Butshe’s just misunderstood. Since she’s alsonaive, people don’t think she knows things,so the townspeople think she’s crazy and

might hex them by mistake. But the fairiesthink she’s not fit to be one of them.”

Mittapally loves her role because she’s“finally gotten a lead. And I feel like she’smy alter ego – the other side of me that Ihide in real life. My character also teachesa good moral that, no matter what happens,you’ve got to keep going and pull throughwith a positive attitude. I’m a child at heart,and this show helps me bring it out.”

She said it can be difficult to make littleones understand the storyline in a children’s

show, but she likes challenges. “The ac-tors also get to let our silly sides out andhave fun. Kids will enjoy the characters’wild enthusiasm and large motions – thebody language will be crazy. And they’lllove the costumes, too, because they’rebig, bright and bold.”

Sophomore Tyler Hicks plays PrinceBalderdash, the evil twin of nice twin,Prince Fauntleroy. “He hates his brotherbecause he’s too nice and gets everything,while Balderdash gets nothing,” saidHicks. “He’s pessimistic and gets angry alot. He wants a pretty princess and a nicecastle and tries to capture Fauntleroy toprevent him from meeting Princess Au-rora and breaking the curse.”

Hicks has never played a villain before.“This is a lot of fun. I get to see a badguy’s point of view and what caused himto be evil. And I like being part of a com-edy duo with Christian Schopp, whoplays Fauntleroy. In a children’s show,you get to act stupid without people judg-ing you, and it’s fun making kids laugh.”

He said audiences will enjoy the play’shumor, plus Harold the royal herald, whomakes all the kingdom’s announcements.“And there are references to other fairy

Playing the seven fairies are (from left) Megan Rudacille, Mollie Epstein,Amanda Donovan, Lauren Lagasse, Isis Richards, Allison Baxter andMelina Nejadian.

Chantilly High presents children’s play,‘Waking Sleeping Beauty.’

‘Big, Bright, Bold’ and Funny, Too

Posing in character are (from left) Christina Brown (Fantine), KyleeDownie (Cosette), John Henry Stamper (Jean Valjean), Ryaan Farhadi(Enjolras), Braeden Anderson (Javert), Keeley Rogers (Eponine), MeredithKilmartin (Madame Thenardier), and Jeffrey Mouritzen (Thenardier).

Westfield Summer Stage presents‘Les Misérables.’

Timeless Tale of Love, Grace and Redemption

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4 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Opinion

Members of the Virginia GeneralAssembly were scheduled onJuly 9 to convene in a specialsession intended to address

gun violence. After the May 31 mass shootingin Virginia Beach, Gov. Ralph Northam calledfor a special session of the General Assemblyto address gun violence. Last week, he an-nounced a package of eight bills for consider-ation during the special session.

❖ Legislation requiring background checkson all firearms sales and transactions.The bill mandates that any person sell-ing, renting, trading, or transferring afirearm must first obtain the results ofa background check before completing thetransaction.

❖ Legislation banning dangerous weapons:assault weapons, high-capacity magazines,bump stocks and silencers.

❖ Legislation to reinstate Virginia’s success-ful law allowing only one handgun purchasewithin a 30-day period.

❖ Legislation requiring that lost and stolenfirearms be reported to law enforcement within24 hours.

❖ Legislation creating an Extreme Risk Pro-

tective Order (Red Flag law), allowing lawenforcement and the courts to temporarilyseparate a person from firearms if the personexhibits dangerous behavior that presents animmediate threat to self or others. This wouldprevent suicides.

❖ Legislation prohibiting all individuals sub-ject to final protective orders from possessingfirearms. The bill expands Virginia law whichcurrently prohibits individuals subject to finalprotective orders of family abuse from possess-ing firearms, keeping guns out of the hands ofdomestic abusers.

❖ Legislation enhancing the punishment forallowing access to loaded, unsecured firearmby a child from a Class 3 Misdemeanor to aClass 6 felony. The bill also raises the age ofthe child from 14 to 18.

❖ Legislation allowing localities toenact any firearms ordinances that arestricter than state law. This includesregulating firearms in municipal build-

ings, libraries and at permitted events.These are in fact common sense proposals,

and each one should get consideration and avote. There’s a good chance that won’t be theoutcome because Republicans narrowly con-trol both the House of Delegates and the Vir-ginia Senate.

But the special session will focus legislatorsand voters on the importance of these issues,and that focus will serve the effort well,whether or not any of the bills pass into lawthis month.

Pet Connection,Send Photos

The Pet Connection, a twice-yearly specialedition, will publish the last week of July, andphotos and stories of your pets with you andyour family should be submitted by Thursday,July 25.

We invite you to send stories about your pets,photos of you and your family with your cats,dogs, llamas, alpacas, ponies, hamsters, snakes,lizards, frogs, rabbits, or whatever other crea-tures share your life with you.

Tell us the story of a special bond between achild and a dog, the story of how you came toadopt your pet, or examples of amazing featsof your creatures.

Just a cute photo is fine too. Our favoritepictures include both pets and humans.

Please tell us a little bit about your creature,identify everyone in the photo, give a briefdescription of what is happening in the photo,and include address and phone number (wewill not publish your address or phone num-ber, just your town name).

Email toeditors@connectionnewspapers.com or submitonline at

www.connectionnewspapers.com/pets.For advertising information, email

sales@connectionnewspapers.com or call 703-778-9431.

— Mary Kimm

mkimm@connectionnewspapers.com

Eight proposed billswould make thecommonwealth safer.

Special Session on Gun Violence

Editorial

By Kenneth R.

“Ken” Plum

State Delegate (D-

36)

The GeneralA s s e m b l ywent into

Special Session July 9at the call of Gov.Ralph Northam toaddress gun violenceafter a shooter with asilencer on his pistol murdered adozen persons in a municipalbuilding in Virginia Beach. Theoutcome of the session in whichlegislators introduced eight differ-ent bills at the request of the Gov-ernor is unknown as I write thiscolumn. I introduced the bill thatI have introduced at other sessionsto expand criminal backgroundchecks for all firearm transactionsor universal background checks.

Virginia has had a criminal back-ground check for gun purchasesfor 30 years. The system was putin place after a bill that washeavily debated and that seemedcertain to be defeated was passedwith the support of a senior del-egate, Vic Thomas, who was an

avid NRA supporter.He concluded that itwas a bill the publicclearly wanted andshould pass because itdid not interfere withthe Second Amend-ment. In what mayhave been the lasttime the NRA tooksuch a position, it didnot support but it didnot oppose the bill’spassage. Governor

Gerald Baliles signed the bill intolaw even though he had earlieropposed any gun control legisla-tion.

The resulting instant back-ground check system that was putinto place continues operating to-day. It was the promise of an in-stant background check withoutthe need to wait for days for ap-proval that was the feature that ledto the bill’s passage.

There was then that continuestoday a major flaw in the law asoriginally passed that supportershad hoped to correct but have notbeen successful in amending. Thelaw only applies to purchasesmade with federally licensed gun

dealers. That’s about half the gunsales in the state each year, al-though exact statistics are un-known because of statutory limi-tations on gathering informationabout gun sales put in place withNRA advocacy. This flaw in the lawcreated what is referred to as the“gun show loophole.” At any of thenumerous gun shows that are heldthroughout the Commonwealthone can purchase a gun from afederally licensed gun dealer withan instant background check; atthe next table at the show a per-son can purchase a gun from anunlicensed dealer with no identi-fication needed and no questionsasked.

The astonishing statistic is thatin 2018 the Virginia State Policeconducted 446,333 firearms trans-actions involving licensed dealerswith 3,457 of the transactions de-nied because of previous criminalbehavior. Had the loophole in thelaw been closed there may havebeen as many as a half millionmore checks with a proportionallyhigh number of persons withcriminal records being denied an-other weapon.

What is good for the goose is

good for the gander, as I have al-ways been told. With a successfulsystem for background checks inplace for thirty years without op-position or hick-ups, all gun salesshould go through the system withminor exceptions related to fam-ily members. According to manypolls, the public supports univer-sal background checks at levelsaround 90 percent. It is time forthe legislature to act or be able toexplain to the public in the com-ing political campaign why this oldadage is not being followed.

Good for the Gander

What Do You Think?The Connection welcomes views

on any public issue.The deadline for all material isnoon Friday. Letters must be

signed. Include home address andhome and business numbers.

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Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Plastic binssuch as thosein this closet

can helpmaximizespace in a

dorm room,advises Susan

Unger ofClutterSOS.

Home LifeStyle

By Marilyn Campbell

The Connection

When she moved out of her family homeand into a dorm room at MarymountUniversity, one of the obstacles that Grace

McKinley faced was creating a sense of style and or-der in her new downsized dwelling.

“[My] biggest challenge was making a small spacefeel like a functional home,” said McKinley, an inte-rior design major who now works as an intern atCase Design/Remodeling, Inc.

For students who are getting ready to head off tocollege next month, part of their preparation includesshopping for supplies to hold items ranging fromjeans and t-shirts to laptops and books. Like McKinley,many will take on the task of finding pieces that willserve the dual role of adding both aesthetic appealand efficient organization to a diminutive and aus-tere room.

“First of all, since dorm rooms are really small, tryto only take what you know you will actually need,”said Susan Unger of ClutterSOS. “If you can onlytake your clothes, choose items needed for the cur-rent season and then change them out when youreturn home for a visit.”

Even for those who choose to take only a limitedamount clothing, finding the best use of space re-quires creativity and precision. “Use bed risers tomake room for under-the-bed storage bins where youcan house items such as extra food and clothing youdon’t wear on a regular basis,” said Unger.

Students who, like McKinley, miss the comforts ofhome, can use nostalgic reminders to smooth outthe transition. “I made sure to put up photos offriends and family on the wall to add a sentimentaltouch,” she said. “And I coordinated my favorite col-ors in my bedding and organization items.” McKinleysaid those items included stackable, plastic storagetrays that held her jewelry and school supplies.

In fact, tools for keeping order are essential whentrying to maximize the limitations of size-challengedrooms. “Always think of using available vertical spacesuch as the back of doors,” said Unger. “You can ac-tually use an over-the-door shoe bag for other thingslike toiletries or food instead of shoes.”

Even dorm-sized appliances can be multi-func-tional, says Unger. “If you have a refrigerator withmetal sides you can use magnetized bins for office

or kitchen supplies like condiments or eating uten-sils,” she said. “A shower caddy is also a good ideaso that you can keep all your bathing supplies in oneplace.”

When to comes to breathing life into sterile,cramped quarters , a touch of vibrancy can have abig impact says Allie Mann, designer and senior in-teriors specialist at Case. “When decorating a smallspace, don’t be afraid of color,” she said. “The bestsmall spaces are those that are the most colorful. Somany times folks are afraid of too much color. Bebold and have fun.”

Accessories that Mann recommends include col-orful peel-and-stick wallpaper. “Take any lamp andgive it life and character with pom poms from a craftstore,” she said.

While she encourages color creative, her advicecomes with a caveat. “Be careful not to mix too muchpattern,” she said. “Too much pattern in a small spacecould be a bit dizzying.”

Now working as Mann’s design intern at Case,McKinley says that, as she progressed in her major,she began putting her newly acquired skills to use inher dorm room. “In my interior design classes, welearned that balancing elements of design like color,shape, space, and texture creates the best spaces,”she said. “Adding interest with a unique throw pil-low, patterned rug, or a fun lamp can make a simpledorm stand out from the rest.”

Adding style and creating space in tight quartersDorm Room Decor

When decorating a small space, interiordesigner Allie Mann of Case Design/Remodeling Inc. says that bold colors canadd vibrancy.

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6 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

From Page 3

News

From Page 3

tales, besides ‘Sleeping Beauty.’”Portraying Princess Aurora is junior Shyenne

Farrell. “She’s a sassy princess who has money, butno common sense,” said Farrell. “She’s a typical 18-year-old going through phases and mood swings.She just doesn’t think, at all – not even to realizethat a stove could be hot. She’s also a free spirit andis always on roller skates.”

Excited about her role, Farrell said, “I get to actlike a petty teenager and be bratty, telling my mom,‘It’s my life and I can do what I want to.’”

She like being in children’s shows because “Youget to be silly, crazy, wild and super-duper extra,and you’re doing a good job. The kids will like the

big motions we make, and their parents will enjoyour funny jokes. And the set will be great.”

Sophomore Colin McLean is the stage manager. Hemakes sure the actors know where to be and thatnothing happens onstage during the show withouthis go-ahead. “We’ll have brightly colored lightingand funny sound effects that kids will like, saidMcLean. “And there’ll be fun props like a pair of pantsthat the peasants won in a lawsuit against the kingfor excluding them from parties. Whenever he’s aboutto do that again, they hold up the pants to remindhim.” He loves stage managing – and almost everyaspect of theater. “You can do thousands of shows onthe same stage, and it will never be the same experi-ence. And you make everlasting friendships.”

a long time and can’t wait ’til we bring it to thestage. Because it’s been around for 30 years and thischaracter’s been done so many times, I’m drawinginspiration from previous Valjeans, but also bring-ing my own interpretation to it.”

He also likes his part because “The music is fan-tastic and Valjean has such a deep, character arc,spanning his entire life. ... My favorite song is ‘OneDay More,’ with all the leads and the ensemble, atthe end of Act I. It’s so powerful and tells all theplots in the story simultaneously.”

Stamper said the audience will like “The big cast,the timeless, classic that is ‘Les Mis’ and how pas-sionate everyone is about this show – and that’ll comethrough onstage. They’ll also love the inspiring mu-sic that makes you happy and sad and feeling somany, diverse emotions.”

NEW WESTFIELD GRAD Braeden Anderson playsJavert, the guard when Valjean was in prison and,now, a police inspector. After Valjean breaks parole,Javert makes it his mission to capture him. “Javert isalmost like an automaton – mechanical, heartlessand ruthless,” said Anderson. “He views people asunchanging and – even though he’s a man of God –he doesn’t believe in mercy.”

So, said Anderson, “Valjean goes against every-thing Javert believes in – if you sin, you’re going tohell, and there’s no redemption. Javert’s two, mainthemes are the idea of living in a dark world wherepeople are lost, and that justice is law and peoplecan’t be forgiven. To some extent, he fears changeand can’t accept the fact that he’s been wrong andthat – in a dark world – he’s the one who’s lost.”

Anderson enjoys playing him and “delving deeperinto his character. He’s the most complex characterI’ve done. He’s stiff and serious and doesn’t expresshis emotions through his face, so I portray how he’sfeeling through what he says and how he says it.”

Anderson especially likes the song, “Confronta-tion,” when Javert confronts Valjean about break-ing parole and reveals his identity. “They both singit and Javert reveals some of his back story, explain-ing why he’s the way he is,” said Anderson.

He said people will enjoy “the beauty of the voices.The whole show is sung – it’s essentially an opera.”

Portraying Marius is Oakton High junior JonnyGeerdes. “He’s one of the college students who re-volts,” said Geerdes. “He’s from a wealthy family, buthe fights with the poor because he believes in whatthey’re fighting for – freedom from the tyrannical gov-ernment. Marius thinks more with his heart than hishead. He’s a leader, is charismatic and believes hisfriends are more important than his own, personalinterests.”

As the first musical Geerdes fell in love with, “LesMis” made him want to pursue musical theater. Heenjoys playing Marius because “He’s the charminglover and his vocals challenge me and allow me tosing something different from contemporary styles.”

His favorite number is “Bring Him Home,” whichValjean sings about Marius. “Marius is in the barri-cade and an attack is coming,” said Geerdes. “Andhe’s sent Cosette a letter saying he loves her and that,if he survives the attack, he’ll come back to her. Heprays that God will bring him home to Cosette. It’s abeautiful song, and it touches me that he’s singing itto God.”

Noting the “extremely talented cast,” Geerdes saidthe audience will “fall in love with the ensemble, theharmonies and how everybody comes together to tellthe story.”

NEW CHANTILLY HIGH GRAD Kylee Downieplays 16-year-old ingenue Cosette. “She’s sweet,gentle and empathetic,” said Downie. “She has anespecially good relationship with Valjean and caresdeeply for others. Valjean took her in after her motherdied when she was a little girl, and raised her as hisown. She thinks he’s her father. She’s sheltered fromthe world and only knows Valjean until Marius comesalong and they fall in love.”

Thrilled with her role, Downie said, “I’m havingthe time of my life. I’ve always wanted to play Cosettebecause she’s bright and sees light in every corner.”And, she added, “There aren’t many soprano roles inmodern theater.”

She particularly likes the song, “The Epilogue.” Thewhole cast sings it and, said Downie, “It’s incrediblypowerful because it contains the line exemplifyingthe show, ‘To Love another person is to see the faceof God.’ It’s significant because, despite the war andwhat seems to be a Godless time, love is the one thingthat never fails and always finds a way.”

Westfield Summer Stage Presents ‘Les Misérables’

Chantilly High PresentsChildren’s Play

Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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

WEDNESDAY/JULY 17Fairfax Commission on Aging Meets. 1-3

p.m. at Mclean Governmental Center, Rooms A& B, 1437 Balls Hill Road, Mclean. The public iswelcome to attend and join in the commentperiod that begins each session. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/fairfax-area-commission-on-aging. Call703-324-5403, TTY 711 for meeting accessneeds.

TUESDAY/JULY 23Car Seat Safety Check. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at

the Sully district police station, 4900 StonecroftBlvd. Fairfax County Police Department offersfree safety check and install events throughoutthe year to ensure children travel safely. Inpreparation for inspection, install the seat usingthe instructions that came with the car seat.Trained officers will review the car seatinstructions and car owner’s manual to becertain that they are being followed as theyshould.

WEDNESDAY/JULY 24Fairfax County Park Authority Board

Meeting. 7:30 p.m. in the Herrity Building,12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 941,Fairfax. The Park Authority Board’s 12appointed members establish strategic policyand direction for the Park Authority. Open tothe public. For agenda and more information,visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/boardagn2.htm or call 703-324-8662.

THURSDAY/AUG. 1DiabetesSisters PODS Meetup. 7-9 p.m. at

Chantilly Regional Library, 4000 StringfellowRoad, Chantilly. Join the first meeting of thisbrand new PODS Meetup for an evening ofsisterhood, encouragement, and peer support.Women living with any type of diabetes arewarmly welcome. Free. Emailsara@diabetessisters.org or visitdiabetessisters.org/pods-part-diabetessisters-meetups for more.

TUESDAY/SEPT. 10ESL Class Registration. 7 p.m. at Lord of Life

Lutheran Church, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfaxor 13421 Twin Lakes Drive, Clifton. Threelevels: beginning, intermediate, advanced.Classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 17-Nov. 21. All are welcome. Registration fee, $15;text book, $25. Visit www.lordoflifeva.org orcall 703-323-9500.

SUNDAY/OCT. 6Low Cost Rabies Vaccine Clinic. Noon-2 p.m.

at Sully District Governmental Center, 4900Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly. Cost is $15 per pet,cash and check only. Dogs, cats, and ferrets maybe vaccinated at the clinic. Dogs must be onleashes; cats and ferrets must be in carriers. Allpets will receive a 1-year rabies vaccination. Toobtain a 3-year vaccine, bring pet’s rabiescertificate (not tag) showing the current rabiesvaccination expiration date. 2019 county doglicenses will be sold for an additional $10 perlicense. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/communityassistance/rabiesclinics for more.

ELECTRONICS RECYCLINGResidents Can “E-cycle” at the I-66 transfer

station. It is free but residents may be asked toshow proof of residency. Personal waste only.The I-66 station is located at 4618 West OxRoad, Fairfax and open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. fromMonday-Saturday and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. onSundays. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/recycling/electric-sunday.htm for more.

DONATIONSThe Student Auto Sales Program operating

from Centreville High School works inconjunction with the CVHS automotivetechnology classes to bring in donatedautomobiles, boats and motorcycles for studentsto work on. Some refurbished vehicles are sold,with 75 percent of the proceeds going back tothe auto tech program. The program is in needof cars, trucks or motorcycles, which are fullytax deductible, for student training. ContactLyman Rose at 703-802-5588 or by e-maillyman.rose@fcps.edu for more.

Bulletin

8 ❖ Chantilly Connection ❖ July 10-16, 2019 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Submit entertainment announcements atwww.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. Thedeadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artworkencouraged.

ONGOINGCrafters Wanted for 2nd Annual Fall Craft

Show. The Fairfax Station Railroad Museumwill hold its 2nd Annual Fall Craft Show andLEGO (TM) Train Show on Saturday, Oct. 12,2019 ,10 a.m.-4 p.m. For crafters interested injoining the event, booth space is enough roomfor a 10x10 canopy and cost is $50 per space.Email dmueller@fairfax-station.org for anapplication and further information. Visitwww.fairfax-station.org or call 703-425-9225.

Chantilly Farmers Market. Thursdays, 3:30-7p.m., through Nov. 11 in the parking lot at St.Veronica Catholic Church, 3460 CentrevilleRoad, Chantilly. The farmers market is a family-friendly weekly event where everyone can accesslocal foods around, and build connections withlocal farmers, small business owners, and theirneighbors. Farmers and vendors bring locallyraised fruits, vegetables, breads and bakedgoods, meats and eggs, local honey, wine, soaps,prepared foods, and more each week. Freeadmission. Visit www.community-foodworks.org/chantilly for more.

THURSDAY/JULY 11Hunter Mill Nights: The Reunion Jazz

Orchestra (Big Band). 7:30-8:30 p.m. atFrying Pan Farm Park, 2739 West Ox Road,Herndon. With a mix of performances throughfor the whole family, Hunter Mill Nights returnsthrough Aug. 22 with performances byentertainers from across the United States andaround the world. Allow time for a picnic in thepark, a visit with the farm animals and a wagonride, along with the show. Free. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/hunter-mill-nights for more.

JULY 11-28Sacred Threads Exhibition. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at

Floris United Methodist Church, 13600 FryingPan Road, Herndon. Sacred Threads is anexhibition of quilts exploring themes of joy,inspiration, spirituality, healing, grief andpeace/brotherhood. This biennial exhibition wasestablished to provide a safe venue for quilterswho see their work as a connection to the sacredand/or as an expression of their spiritualjourney. $10. Visit sacredthreadsquilts.com/default.htm or call 703-793-0026.

SATURDAY/JULY 13“Obliged to Cook-The Legacy of Enslaved

Cooks.” Noon-2 p.m. at Sully Historic Site,3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly. The voicesand stories of the enslaved men and women wholabored in Virginia’s 18th century kitchens areoften hidden in their recipes and oral history.Sully will examine the legacy of enslaved cooksthat can be found in the lasting presence ofAfrican-American foodways in American cuisine.For participants age 5-adult. 8 per person. Call703-437-1794 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully-historic-site.

SUNDAY/JULY 14Game Day. 1-4 p.m. at the Fairfax Station

Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station Road,Fairfax Station. Come play a train game or othergames reflecting life during the Civil War.Participants can try their luck with a ScavengerHunt that afternoon. Fun for the whole family.Ages 16 and older, $4; 5-15, $2; 4 and under,free. Visit www.fairfax-station.org, or call 703-425-9225.

Chair Yoga. 3-4 p.m. at Centreville RegionalLibrary, 14200 St Germain Drive, Centreville.Gentle and mindful chair yoga for adults andolder adults. Free. Call 703-830-2223 or visitlibrarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/5312868.

WEDNESDAY/JULY 17Hunter Mill Melodies: Blue Sky Puppet

Theater (puppets). 10-10:45 a.m. at FryingPan Park visitor center pavilion, 2739 West OxRoad, Herndon. Free series of children’s showsand family performances Wednesdays throughAug. 21.

THURSDAY/JULY 18Hunter Mill Nights: Whiskey Wildfire (new

country). 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Frying Pan FarmPark, 2739 West Ox Road, Herndon. With a mixof performances through for the whole family,Hunter Mill Nights returns through Aug. 22 withperformances by entertainers from across theUnited States and around the world. Allow timefor a picnic in the park, a visit with the farmanimals and a wagon ride, along with the show.Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/hunter-mill-nights for more.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY/JULY 20-21Book Discussion. At DC Big Flea, Dulles Expo

Center, 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center,Chantilly. Authors discuss their new book onCol. John S. Mosby’s combat operations inFauquier County, following volumes on otherarea battles. $10 admission for both days. Visitwww.hmshistory.com for more.

SUNDAY/JULY 21NTRAK Model Train Show. 1-4 p.m. at the

Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, 11200 FairfaxStation Road, Fairfax Station. The NorthernVirginia NTRAK members will hold a N gaugeTrain Display. Ages 16 and older, $4; 5-15, $2; 4and under, free. Visit www.fairfax-station.org,www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, or call 703-425-9225.

TUESDAY/JULY 23Photography Basics 2. 7:30-8:30 p.m. at

Centreville Regional Library, 14200 St GermainDrive, Centreville. “Going Beyond AutomaticFeatures” part 2 of a two-part series.This classwill teach how to take pictures with a camera ormobile device with more features thanautomatic mode allows. Teens and adults. Free.Call 703-830-2223 or visitlibrarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/5251050.

WEDNESDAY/JULY 24Hunter Mill Melodies: The Great Zucchini

(comedy, magic). 10-10:45 a.m. at FryingPan Park visitor center pavilion, 2739 West OxRoad, Herndon. Free series of children’s showsand family performances Wednesdays throughAug. 21.

THURSDAY/JULY 25Hunter Mill Nights: Bumper Jacksons

(Americana, country, bluegrass). 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park, 2739 WestOx Road, Herndon. With a mix of performancesthrough for the whole family, Hunter Mill Nightsreturns through Aug. 22 with performances byentertainers from across the United States andaround the world. Allow time for a picnic in thepark, a visit with the farm animals and a wagonride, along with the show. Free. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/

hunter-mill-nights for more.

SATURDAY/JULY 27“Obliged to Cook-The Legacy of Enslaved

Cooks.” Noon-2 p.m. at Sully Historic Site,3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly. The voicesand stories of the enslaved men and women wholabored in Virginia’s 18th century kitchens areoften hidden in their recipes and oral history.Sully will examine the legacy of enslaved cooksthat can be found in the lasting presence ofAfrican-American foodways in American cuisine.For participants age 5-adult. 8 per person. Call703-437-1794 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully-historic-site.

SUNDAY/JULY 28G-Scale Trains. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Fairfax

Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax StationRoad, Fairfax Station. The Washington, Virginia& Maryland Garden Railway Society (WVMGRS)members will have a G-Scale train displayrunning. The sheer size of these trains is awonder to behold as is their ability to runthrough the garden all year around. Speak withexperienced people about this facet of the modelrailroading hobby. Ages 16 and older, $4; 5-15,$2; 4 and under, free. Visit www.fairfax-station.org, www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, or call703-425-9225.

THURSDAY/AUG. 1Hunter Mill Nights: Incendio (Latin). 7:30-

8:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park, 2739 WestOx Road, Herndon. With a mix of performancesthrough for the whole family, Hunter Mill Nightsreturns through Aug. 22 with performances byentertainers from across the United States andaround the world. Allow time for a picnic in thepark, a visit with the farm animals and a wagonride, along with the show. Free. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/hunter-mill-nights for more.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY/AUG. 3-4Book Discussion. At Civil War Days at the

Winery at Bull Run, 15950 Lee Highway,Centreville. Authors discuss their new book onCol. John S. Mosby’s combat operations inFauquier County, following volumes on otherarea battles. Visit www.hmshistory.com formore.

MONDAY/AUG. 6African-American Genealogy. 7-8:30 p.m. at

Centreville Regional Library, 14200 St. GermainDrive, Centreville. An African-AmericanGenealogy study group meets the first Mondayof the month (except September andNovember). Participation in the study group isfree but registration is requested. To register, orfor more information, visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/events or call 703-830-2223.

THURSDAY/AUG. 8Hunter Mill Nights: Chopteeth (Afrofunk).

7:30-8:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park, 2739West Ox Road, Herndon. With a mix ofperformances through for the whole family,Hunter Mill Nights returns through Aug. 22 withperformances by entertainers from across theUnited States and around the world. Allow timefor a picnic in the park, a visit with the farmanimals and a wagon ride, along with the show.Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/hunter-mill-nights for more.

THURSDAY/AUG. 15Hunter Mill Nights: Veronneau (world

jazz). 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park,2739 West Ox Road, Herndon. With a mix ofperformances through for the whole family,Hunter Mill Nights returns through Aug. 22 withperformances by entertainers from across theUnited States and around the world. Allow timefor a picnic in the park, a visit with the farmanimals and a wagon ride, along with the show.Free. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/hunter-mill-nights for more.

THURSDAY/AUG. 22Hunter Mill Nights: The United States Navy

‘Cruisers’ (pop rock). 7:30-8:30 p.m. atFrying Pan Farm Park, 2739 West Ox Road,Herndon. With a mix of performances throughfor the whole family, Hunter Mill Nights returnsthrough Aug. 22 with performances byentertainers from across the United States andaround the world. Allow time for a picnic in thepark, a visit with the farm animals and a wagonride, along with the show. Free. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/hunter-mill-nights for more.

SATURDAY/AUG. 24Glass Harp Performance. 1-2 p.m. at

Centreville Regional Library, 14200 St GernainDrive, Centreville. Join an end of summercelebration as Jamey Turner plays the glassharp, a musical instrument made with drinkingglasses filled with water. This family friendlyprogram will engage and delight all ages. Free.Call 703-830-2223 or visitlibrarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/5238367.

Calendar

Railroad MuseumThe Fairfax Station Railroad Museum holds events most Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Ages 16 and older, $4; 5-

15, $2; 4 and under, free. The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum is located at 11200 Fairfax Station Road,Fairfax Station. Visit www.fairfax-station.org, www.facebook.com/FFXSRR, or call 703-425-9225.

Photo courtesy of the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum

Brewery,Community CenterMeeting

The Joint Sully District Land Useand Transportation Committee willmeet Monday, July 15, at 7 p.m., inthe Sully District Governmental Cen-ter, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly.Agenda items include an update onthe proposed Bull Run Brewery andthe addition of a healthcare suite tothe planned Sully District CommunityCenter.

Sacred ThreadsQuilt Exhibition

The Sacred Threads quilt exhibitioncomes every two years to Floris UnitedMethodist Church, 13600 Frying PanRoad in Oak Hill. Within each work,artists tell stories of love, loss, joy,hope, healing, spirituality, peace andinspiration. Now in its 13th year, thisnational, juried exhibition of morethan 200 quilts runs July 11 throughJuly 28, Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Tickets: $10,adults; $5, children 5-12.

Roundups