online at www.connectionnewspapers.com September 26-October 2, 2018

Opi

nio

n, Pag

e 4 v

Enter

tai

nm

ent, Pag

e 8 v

C

lass

ified

s, P

age

10Photo b

y M

ercia

Hobs

on/T

he

Connec

tio

n

Postal CustomerECR WSS

Attention Postmaster: Time sensitive material.

Requested in home 9-27-18

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDEaston, MDpermit #322

‘Results vs. Resistance’ or ‘Common-sense vs. Out-of-touch’?News, Page 3

Meet the Candidates For Herndon Mayor, Town CouncilNews, Page 2

Fall FunPage 8

Town Rallies

In PrideNews, Page 5

Looking back and remi-niscing what once was is

part of Homecoming. The antique Herndon Volun-

teer Fire Truck rolls with Herndon Homecoming

Parade 2018.

2 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Town Election

See Meet the Candidates, Page 6

By Mercia Hobson

The Connection

By a Town of Herndon ordinancepassed in 2015, during the November General Elections, registered voters in the Town of

Herndon are given the opportunity duringeven-numbered years to vote for one Mayorand not more than six TownCouncilmembers to serve two-year terms onthe seven-member Herndon Town Council.

This year, the Commonwealth of VirginiaSample Ballot for the County of FairfaxGeneral and Special Elections on Tuesday,November 6, 2018, shows Lisa C. Merkelrunning uncontested for Mayor. Ten indi-viduals are listed as running for Herndon

Town Councilmembers. They are Joseph T.“Joe” Plummer, Jennifer K. Baker, WilliamJ. “Bill” McKenna, Sheila A. Olem, Cesar A.Del Aguila, Signe V. Friedrichs, Grace WolfCunningham, Pradip Dhakal, W. J. “Sean”Kenis, Jr. and Roland Taylor.

According to the Town website, the seven-member Town Council establishes Towngovernment policy, acts on local resolutionsand ordinances, sets tax rates, approves theannual Town budget, appoints members tothe town’s boards, and provides policy guid-ance for the Town Manager.

To help voters in the Town of Herndonget to know the candidates for Mayor andTown Councilmember better, The Connec-tion asked candidates to participate in a Qand A about qualifications, goals, current

issues and future opportunities within a lim-ited word count.

There are nine questions.1. Why are you running for office and

what makes you qualified?2. If you are a current Town

Councilmember, explain how you voted andwhy on the Proposed Town of Herndon FY2019 Budget. If you were not a TownCouncilmember at that time, how wouldyou have voted if you were and why?

3. Do you support any Town of Herndontax or fee increase (including but not lim-ited to Real Estate, Personal Property, Meals,Cigarette, Business Professional Occupa-tional License, etc.), and if so, for what spe-cific purpose?

4. What are the two priorities/challenges

you see for the Town in this next term andthen after that, including Metro and Down-town Redevelopment, and what might beyour proposed actions/solutions.

5. How should the build-out and opera-tion of the proposed new Art Center befunded? Who should operate the Art Cen-ter; if you do not know whom, how bestwould you address this?

6. How would you address inclusivemembership/appointment (from our di-verse community) on the Town Council,Boards and Commissions?

7. Did you seek the Democratic or Re-publican Party Endorsement for Town Coun-cil and if so, what was the outcome?

8. What financial and volunteer supportare you receiving for this campaign?

9. What is important to you that was notaddressed in these questions?

Candidates take part in a Q&A for The ConnectionMeet the Candidates for Herndon Mayor, Town Council Members

Lisa Merkellisa@lisa4herndon.orgMayor (2-year term)

1 — I am running for re-elec-tion because I want to see ourDowntown Project finally cometo life. Downtown has been myfocus since being elected in2010, and we’re closer to mak-ing it happen than ever before. You canlearn more about my background and pri-orities at www.lisamerkel.com.

2 — In April I voted YES on the budget,which had been a work in progress sinceNovember. We raised no tax rates (the realestate rate has remained unchanged since2011), funded capital improvements, DPWand HPD equipment, and grants to severalnonprofits, the arts and Friday Night Live.

3 — Council has worked to maintain qual-ity services without raising taxes - some-thing I’m proud of. I’d like to explore fu-ture revenue stream to fund items / eventsdirectly related to our 2035 Vision. I’d liketo hear residents’ thoughts on that: whatand when (if any) increase might be palat-able?

4 — My biggest priority is closing the dealwith Comstock so that our Downtownproject breaks ground early next year. Thishas been years in the making, and residentsare excited and ready for a vibrant smalltown downtown, new restaurant and retailoptions, the Arts Walk and Arts Center.Herndon Parkway is underutilized andshould be studied to see how we canincentivize through traffic to go around the“bypass” rather than cut through down-town. Planning for Metro and ensuring thattrails and roads are ready to get us toHerndon Station in a variety of ways is es-sential. Additionally, I will continue to pushFairfax Connector to provide a circulatorcomponent to the new bus routes that be-gin when Metro opens in 2020.

5 — I’d like our local artsgroups to be in the Arts Cen-ter. I support exploringlongterm fiscally sustainableoptions that don’t place the fullburden on taxpayers. I’ve alsoworked with Supervisor Foustto secure a $1.2 million grantfrom the county to fund por-tions of the buildout.

6 — We’ve made an effort to reach out tomembers of diverse communities seekinginterest in our boards and commissions.We’ve been somewhat successful over thepast couple years. Now many boards in-clude diverse experience, ethnic back-grounds, ages, and genders, but there iscertainly room for improvement. Our Coun-cil candidates are quite diverse this year.Getting out into the community and talk-ing with people is the best way to reachunderserved and underrepresented resi-dents.

7 — I have been endorsed by manyelected officials and groups and was en-dorsed by FCDC in 2016. This year I ap-plied, but later withdrew and declined theendorsement. I’ve heard from many resi-dents - both Republicans and Democrats -that want parties to stay out of our localelection. So.

8 — My campaign finance reports can befound on the Board of Elections website.The vast majority of my contributions havecome from friends or residents of Herndon,or Herndon business owners, and my vol-unteer base is friends, neighbors and highschool students who need service hours.

9 — It’s important to me that Herndoncontinues to be a hometown where every-one feels welcome and included, wherefamilies grow, businesses thrive, and peopleknow their neighbors. I love to hear fromresidents and hope you’ll stay in touch! Fol-low me on social media @MayorLisaMerkelor call me 571-449-7121 http://www.herndon-va.gov/about-us/vision

Joseph Plummerjoe4herndon@gmail.comTown Councilmember (2-year term)

1 — I believe Herndon can be aleader in the transition to a sustain-able future. I want my hometownto pursue an ambitious sustainabilityagenda, and I believe my experienceand education has prepared me todrive that conversation on the Town Coun-cil.

2 — I would’ve voted YES to passing theFY2019 Budget on time. At the April 24budget meeting, I thought twocouncilmembers were irresponsible andsloppy when they attempted a political stuntin the 11th hour of the budget process.

3 — I think the Cigarette Tax could beincreased to fill funding gaps for smallsustainability projects. This would be aPigouvian Tax, which means it would betaxing something that has significant nega-tive externalities.

4 — This next term is going to be aboutthe long-term vision of our Town. The Metroand the Downtown Development will hap-pen in the next term. Both of those com-pleted projects will contribute to the ever-increasing traffic in our Town. Also relatedare the increased capacity needs of Herndonpublic works including our energy, water,and waste systems. So, the top 2 prioritiesfor me are traffic and public works. Howare we going to address these? I believe weneed to take on a sustainability mindset.Thinking about the long term sustainabilityof our Town will inform how we design andmaintain our Town’s infrastructure systems.That includes our transportation, energy,water, and waste systems.

5 — The build-outshould be cross-sector ef-fort that utilizes Federal,State, County, Town, Cor-porate, Foundation, andIndividual support. Thenew Arts Center should

be operated by our local arts organizations.

6 — For the Boards, the Town Councilcan simply make sure to appoint diverseBoards. To make the Town Council morediverse, we need to find more diverse can-didates. Voters should judge people on thecontent of their character and not the colorof their skin. So, I think we should encour-age more people to be candidates, and strivefor a diverse Town Council while of coursemaintaining our high standards of charac-ter.

7 — Initially, I did seek the Fairfax CountyDemocratic Committee’s Endorsement.However, after realizing that McLean vot-ers outside of Herndon were able to signifi-cantly influence the results of the endorse-ment, I decided to remove myself from theFairfax County Democratic Committee andthe associated endorsement process.

8 — I’ve received financial support froma number of Herndon voters. My volunteersare all friends and family.

9 — Check out my website atwww.joe4herndon.org!

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERSPlease indicate what position on the Herndon Town Council for

which you are completing this Question and Answer Survey.

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Connection Editor Kemal Kurspahic

703-778-9414 or north@connectionnewspapers.com

News

By Victoria Ross

The Connection

U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-10) charged directly at Demo-cratic challenger JenniferWexton in her opening state-

ment during the candidates’ first debateFriday, casting Wexton as “the most left-wing state senator” who “wants to repre-sent the resistance and who threatens eco-nomic growth and tax cuts.”

Wexton, a former prosecutor and currentstate senator, shot back, calling Comstocka “political chameleon” who “paints herselfas a bipartisan problem-solver” but “won’tstand up for her constituents” against Presi-dent Donald Trump.

“I fear how much damage can be done bythis President and the Congress that enableshim,” Wexton said, emphasizing her bipar-tisan work in the Virginia legislature.

The 90-minute debate, organized by theLoudoun County Chamber of Commerceand held in the National Conference Cen-ter ballroom in Leesburg, was attended bya record crowd of 550 members.

Frequently punctuated by applause andwhistles from supporters on both sides ofthe aisle, the debate was the first faceoff inone of the most closely watched congres-sional races in the nation.

VIRGINIA’S 10TH Congressional Districthas been held by a Republican for 38 years,but Democrats believe demographic shiftsin the sprawling district — which includesections of Fairfax and Prince William coun-ties and all of Loudoun County — and grow-ing opposition to President Trump, will leadto a Democratic victory. In the 2016 elec-tion, Trump lost the district by 10 percent-age points while Virginia Gov. RalphNortham, a Democrat, won the district bydouble digits in 2017.

Wexton has a record of bipartisan successin Richmond, where she passed more than40 bills while in the minority.

But Comstock’s supporters say she hasdemonstrated her ability to successfullynavigate politics in the “Age of Trump”through her relentless campaigning, fastand furious fundraising, hands-on masteryof local issues and personal connections topeople in her district.

“If there is a ribbon cutting or picnic, youcan bet Barbara will be here,” said LoudounCounty developer David Garmand, who at-tended Friday’s debate. “She sticks to what’simportant to the average business person.”

Sidestepping direct support for Trump,Comstock credited her party for low unem-ployment, economic growth, increased de-fense spending and GOP tax cuts, sayingthose have benefitted Loudoun County.

“These are results to celebrate, not resist,”Comstock said, to loud applause.

Comstock broke with Trump, however, onthe key issue of imposing tariffs on U.S.

small business tax cuts.While both candidates touted their work

supporting funding for the Metro system,Wexton said Comstock’s proposals for Metrowere so extreme they have failed to earnthe support of any other members of Con-gress in the region. Wexton sharply criticizedComstock for voting against Metrorail’s Sil-ver Line expansion, “but that didn’t stop herfrom showing up at the ribbon cutting.”

The candidates also split over the Afford-able Care Act. Comstock said “Obamacarewas a totally partisan bill,” calling it “deeplyflawed.” She said she did not support re-peal, but instead would seek to fix the prob-lems “piece by piece.”

Wexton said there were steps the federalgovernment could take to improve the sys-tem, but that “access to quality affordablehealthcare is a right for all, not a privilegeof the few” and that the Medicaid expan-sion she helped pass was providing “accessto affordable healthcare to 400,000 needyVirginians.”

In their closing statements, the candidatesreiterated their campaign rhetoric:

“My record is one of getting results onyour priorities with results, not resistance,”Comstock said.

“[Republicans’] actions show that theyhave no interest in real solutions, only sabo-tage. Unlike them, when I go to Congress,I’ll work across the aisle to find real solu-tions,” Wexton said.

goods, declaring herself a “free trader” whohas always “opposed tariffs.”

Wexton agreed that tariffs hurt Virginiafarmers and businesses. “President Trumpneedlessly and recklessly imposed tariffsthat are hurting Americans,” Wexton said.Regarding the administration sending bail-out checks to farmers, Wexton said “Theydon’t want a bailout from the government.They want to sell their goods on the openmarket.”

As with their shared opposition to thetariffs, the candidates mirrored one anotheron several other issues.

Both said they oppose Congressionalmoves to expand service at Reagan NationalAirport at the expense of Dulles Interna-tional Airport, which is located in the dis-trict. Both agreed that the opioid epidemicis a serious public health problem, and thataddicts need to be treated, not just pun-ished. Both expressed opposition to Presi-dent Trump’s proposed freeze on the payof federal workers, thousands of whom callthe 10th District home.

But when the candidates addressed im-migration reform, the debate took a heatedturn.

Comstock and Wexton both said they sup-ported comprehensive immigration reform,including the expansion of programs en-abling tech businesses to bring in skilledimmigrants to fill cyber jobs.

“I do support having additional immigra-

tion,” Comstock said. “But it needs to belegal and in a fair system. I have supportedincreasing H1B visas so we can get thosehigh-quality workers.”

“We need to address our immigrationchallenges in a bipartisan and comprehen-sive way,” Wexton said, “but PresidentTrump’s divisive rhetoric and policies areonly making that more difficult. Immigra-tion is vitally important to our NorthernVirginia economy; we have many tech busi-nesses that rely on H1B visas and we haveover 30,000 unfilled cyber jobs here in Vir-ginia. Our farmers rely on seasonal immi-grant laborers, and we need to make surethat they have them.”

Wexton added that Republicans, whohave controlled Congress for years, “havesat on their hands and put kids in cages.”Her comment drew loud and sustainedcheers and boos from supporters of eachcandidate, prompting an “order please” re-quest from the event moderator.

DIFFERENCES between the candidateswere also sharply defined on the GOP’s taxreform bill passed last year. Wexton calledit the “Trump-Comstock Tax Scam” whichshe said gives 80 percent of tax cut benefitsto the wealthiest one percent of taxpayersand increases the annual deficit by a tril-lion dollars, instead of helping middle-classfamilies. Comstock said she wanted to ex-pand personal tax cuts and pursue more

Comstock and Wexton present stark choice for voters during first debate.

‘Results vs. the Resistance’ or ‘Common-sense vs. Out-of-touch’?

State Sen. Jennifer Wexton (D-33) shakes hands withU.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-10) at the end of thecandidates’ first debate Sept. 21, at the NationalConference Center in Leesburg. The candidates arevying for Virginia’s 10th Congressional District seat.

U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-10) responds to ques-tions from Loudoun County Chamber of Commercepanelists during 90-minute debate Sept. 21, at theNational Conference Center in Leesburg while herchallenger, state Sen. Jennifer Wexton (D-33) looks on.

Photos by Victoria Ross/The Connection

4 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Opinion

By Supervisor John C.

Cook

(R-Braddock)

Criminal justice reformis about making surethat the criminal jus-tice system achieves

its goals and works equally for ev-eryone. One issue being examinedis whether assessing traffic andcourt fines and costs, regardless of ability topay, and then punishing those who do not pay,is achieving any desired goal. Court fines andfees can be assessed for criminal or traffic of-fenses, such as speeding or parking violations.When someone receives a ticket or is orderedto pay a fine for an infraction, they also haveto pay court and processing fees. This systemis in place to deter people from committingthese crimes, and also as a way to reimbursethe cost of expenses associated with process-ing the cases and pay back to society for thecost of any damage caused by their actions.

For some, paying fines is not a problem. Forothers who are struggling to get by, it may bedifficult or impossible to pay. The penaltiesfor failing to pay fines and fees end up hav-ing a much greater impact on those in pov-erty than the rest of the population. If some-one cannot pay their fine or traffic ticket, pen-alties for non-payment increase the amountsthey could not pay in the first place. Overduefines often go to collection agencies and themountain of debt grows even higher, since a17 percent collection fee can be added on to

the existing balance.Compounding the issue is that

if someone fails to pay their fines,the state can take their driver’s li-cense away. The Legal Aid JusticeCenter found in January that al-most one million (974,349) Vir-

ginians had their licenses suspended due to un-paid fines and other charges. Two-thirds of thatgroup (638,003) had their licenses suspendedsolely because of unpaid fines. When the courtssuspend driver’s licenses for unpaid fines, thoseindividuals are not able to legally drive to work.Many people choose to drive illegally on theirsuspended licenses so they do not lose theirincome. If they are caught, then even more le-gal fees are added to their debt and some haveto serve jail time. This vicious cycle makes itimpossible for the courts to ever collect theirfines and for those who owe to meet their ob-ligations. It also means that people are pushedout of jobs and potentially into applying forgovernment benefits.

Fortunately, in Fairfax County there are sev-eral programs to help individuals avoid theseescalating penalties. Defendants can enter intoa monthly payment plan with a down paymentdue at the time of their conviction. If a monthlypayment is missed, then the defendant will gointo default, which could result in additionalfines and/or jail time. Another option is to

defer the entire payment until a later date.Defendants may also be eligible for the FinesOption Program, which allows defendants toperform community service in lieu of payingfines and fees. Those who sign up for this op-tion go to the Magistrate’s office on a Satur-day morning, sign in, and take a bus to theGeorge Mason University campus to performtasks such as picking up litter, landscaping, orpainting. Work hours are credited at the rateof $15 an hour toward payment of fines.

While we have some remarkable programsto assist those who cannot afford to pay offtheir fines, many people still fall through thecracks. We need to implement a new systemto help determine a person’s ability to pay be-fore they go to trial. The judge and clerk’s of-fice need the ability to set fines that can actu-ally be paid. We need further opportunities forthe alternative of assigning community servicewith more flexible schedules for those whocannot make the Saturday morning sessions.

Fine reform cannot truly take place withoutsignificant changes by the General Assembly.However, the County can help in the processby assisting the courts in bolstering their pro-grams and making them more effective. Wedefeat the purpose of fines if we cause peopleto lose their jobs and the ability to support theirfamilies. Alternatives are important to a morejust system.

Almost one million Virginians have hadtheir licenses suspended due to unpaidcourt fines and other charges.

How We Can Bring Criminal Fine Reformto Fairfax County

By Kenneth R. “Ken” Plum

State Delegate (D-36)

Next year will be thequadricentennial —four hundred years —

of important events happening inVirginia in 1619. Those events arenot the rah-rah kind of happeningsthat are too often recognized withsimple merriment. They are notexamined for what we can learn from whencewe came to understand how we got to wherewe are. The English established their first per-manent colony in what became America in1607; they did not “discover” America. Therewere an estimated 50,000 residents on theNorth American continent when the Englishbumped into the continent on their way to theriches of the Far East. The Spanish had visitedthe mid-Atlantic region decades before the En-glish arrived but did not stick around for theyfound no gold or fountain of youth.

The indigenous people living in what theEnglish named Virginia had a form of govern-ment in a confederation under the Great ChiefPowhatan, an agricultural system, environmen-tal protection, and a religion based on the natu-

ral spirits. They resented thepeople showing up in great shipsand booming guns and taking landon which their forbearers hadlived for as many as 15,000 years.There should be no surprise thatthe indigenous people begrudgedthese illegal immigrants comingand taking their land and re-sponded with what some peoplecalled savagery.

Joining the new settlers at thecommunity they called Jamestowne in 1619were an essential component of keeping a com-munity thriving into the future — women.

Just in time for the 2019 celebration, theWomen’s Commission has construction under-way for a monument celebrating the contribu-tions of women in making Virginia thrive. Nota bit too soon!

Women were invited to join the men atJamestowne to help start a new life in a newworld.

Not invited to join the white men and womenwere the enslaved Africans who were droppedoff at Jamestowne without their consent andwith an indentured servant agreement thatcould never be paid off. The enslaved Africans

in 1619 were the first that would be broughtto the colony to work in the tobacco fields andto do the hard labors without any of the ben-efits a new start in life was supposed to bring.

The relationship between the white andblack populations in Virginia were to dominateso much of the history of the state to the sense-less killings of the Civil War and the complexi-ties of race relations today.

In 1619 representatives of the plantationsin the colony of Virginia met together in themud-dab constructed church in Jamestowneto form a local government, much like ahomeowner’s association, because the realpower of governance continued to reside inLondon. That meeting is celebrated as the firstmeeting of representative government tracingits beginning in 1619 through the Revolution-ary War, with a slight deviation of the Civil War,to today.

Please keep up with the celebrations for nextyear by visiting the website of https://www.americanevolution2019.com/ or watchfor announcements of events in my electronicnewsletter, Virginia E-News, available by freesubscription (sign up at kenplum.com). In ourcelebrations, let’s continue to critically exam-ine where we are in light of where we have been.

Celebrating with Understanding

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

@HerndonConnect

An independent, locally owned weeklynewspaper delivered

to homes and businesses.Published by

Local Media Connection LLC

1606 King StreetAlexandria, Virginia 22314

Free digital edition delivered toyour email box. Go to

connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe

NEWS DEPARTMENT:herndon@connectionnewspapers.com

Kemal Kurspahic Editor ❖ 703-778-9414

kemal@connectionnewspapers.com

Mercia HobsonCommunity Reporter

mhobson@connectionnewspapers.com

Andrea WorkerContributing Writer

aworker@connectionnewspapers.com

Jean CardProduction Editor

jcard@connectionnewspapers.com

ADVERTISING:For advertising information

sales@connectionnewspapers.com703-778-9431

Debbie FunkDisplay Advertising/National Sales

703-778-9444debfunk@connectionnewspapers.com

David GriffinMarketing Assistant

703-778-9431dgriffin@connectionnewspapers.com

Classified & EmploymentAdvertising703-778-9431

Editor & PublisherMary Kimm

mkimm@connectionnewspapers.com@MaryKimm

Executive Vice PresidentJerry Vernon

703-549-0004jvernon@connectionnewspapers.com

Editor in ChiefSteven Mauren

Managing EditorKemal Kurspahic

Art/Design:Laurence Foong, John Heinly,

Ali KhalighProduction Manager:

Geovani Flores

CIRCULATIONcirculation@connectionnewspapers.com

Oak Hill & Herndon

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

Award WinnersCivic Group

First Place-Girl Scouts Service Unit 51-9, Second Place – Cub Scouts Pack 1577Performing Arts Group

First Place-Rhythm Street Dancers, Second Place – Herndon High Step TeamSchool Group

First Place – Clearview Elementary, Second Place – Hutchison Elementary SchoolShow Group

First Place – Herndon Optimists Youth Sports, Second Place – Herndon Woman’sClub Wreaths Across America

Class FloatsFirst Place – Herndon HS Junior Class of 2020, Second Place – Herndon High

School Freshmen Class of 2022Richard F. Downer Theme Award

Herndon High School Senior Class of 2019Major Robert C. Church Award

Best in Parade – Herndon Elementary School

The Herndon High School Band leads Homecoming Parade 2018, Saturday, Sept. 22.

Town Rallies in PrideHerndon High School Homecoming Parade 2018,more than a marching band, prom court and floats.

By Mercia Hobson

The Connection

This is a warmth I haven’tfelt in such a long time.People, families and

children are gathering on the side-walks, lawns and porches to cheerand support each other for today’sHerndon Homecoming Parade2018. This event reminds youwhat’s really important. Socialconnections,” said Les Zidel, Townof Herndon resident.

Saturday, Sept. 22 marked theHerndon High School Homecom-ing Parade 2018. Costumes, ban-ners and floats portrayed thisyear’s theme, “Under the Big Top.”

Although homecoming paradesare generally thought of as eventsfor students, families, alumni andfriends to rally together and sup-

As spectators look on,Herndon Mayor Lisa C.Merkel (right) and ViceMayor Jennifer Baker ridein style during HerndonHomecoming Parade 2018.

U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly(D-11) gives thumbs up tospectators on the otherside of Elden Street duringthe Herndon High SchoolHomecoming Parade 2018held Saturday, Sept. 22.

port the school before the biggame, in the Town of Herndon theannual parade is much more.Herndon High School may be oneof the threads that course throughthe town, but it is the community,

the local scouts, athletes, elemen-tary school students, members oflocal organizations and busi-nesses, and politicians who addthe other strands of fiber to createthe fabric of the Town of Herndon.And it is that, the community, newresidents and established, lessthan one “Big Top” which rever-berated throughout the town.

This year, the Homecoming pa-rade ran the entire length of thetown’s main avenue, Elden Street.Spectators stood three to four deepin some areas. Porch parties at-tracted more than seventy-five at-tendees at given homes along theroute. “Fifty-eight units and wellover 1,300 participants marchedin the parade,” reported AbbyKimble, marketing specialist forthe Herndon Parks and RecreationDepartment.

After the parade, the actionmoved onto the football field at 1p.m. for the Homecoming footballgame where the Osbourn Park Yel-low Jackets beat the Herndon Hor-nets 21-14.

“

Pho

to

s by M

ercia H

obso

n/T

he C

on

nectio

n

6 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

From Page 2

Town Election

See Meet the Candidates, Page 7

Meet the Candidates for Mayor, Herndon Town Council

Jennifer BakerBaker4herndon@gmail.comTown Councilmember

1 — I’ve lived in Herndon for14 years and I have been hon-ored to serve on Council for thepast 4 years. I’m running againbecause I love this community and I wantto see Herndon continue to thrive. I havethe experience, energy and commitmentneeded to serve.

2 — I voted to approve the current bud-get. The town staff and Council discuss ourTown’s finances throughout the year and ingreat detail from January - April. I thinkthe FY19 budget was the right balance ofproviding the services expected withoutraising the real estate tax rates.

3 — Being a good steward ofour tax dollars is one of themost important responsibilitiesI have as a Council member. Ifwe need more revenue to bal-ance a future budget or for aunique funding request, then Iwould consider carefully howto make adjustments, includingraising taxes or fees.

4 — We need to continue towork with Comstock Partners to make thedowntown development plan a reality.Building an Arts Center in the core of ourdowntown will be a unique differentiatorfor Herndon’s future. It will also bring newresidents, retail and businesses while main-taining our historic charm. The Arts Centerwill be a destination spot for visitors fromaround the region. Second, we should con-tinue to work with the existing land ownersin the 38 acre zone immediately surround-

ing our future Silver Line Metro station. Thisarea will be the most densely developed ofany part of Herndon’s 4.2 square miles andwill be an economic driver for the Town.

5 — We requested and will receive $1.2million in funding from Fairfax County tobuild the Arts Center. The rest of the fundsshould be a combination of Town taxes andgrants. Ideally, it should be run by an artsorganization(s) with oversight by the Town.

6 — There’s always opportunity for morecitizen engagement, and I would like to seethese bodies better reflect our community.Recent investments in the Town’s websiteand building a mobile application (Herndonon the Go) was a first step in improvingoutreach to all Town residents. We’ve im-proved the online application process tohelp us identify more people. I serve as thelead for the interview committee and I’meager to meet with new candidates who

7 —I sought the Democratic endorsementand was recommended, but pulled my re-quest before it came to a vote. This endorse-ment allows a small number of people, manywho live outside the Town, to have an over-sized influence on voting decisions forHerndon and that’s not good for democracy.

8— My neighbors hosted a fundraiser for mein April and where I received donations fromTown residents and friends. I’m spending myfree time between now and Nov. 6, knocking ondoors and talking to residents. I’d welcome vol-unteers who want to walk with me.

9 — Herndon is a small town, with a bigheART. I’m proud to represent this town andwhat we’ve accomplished to make it a home-town for everyone. I welcome your sugges-tions as I knock on your door or anytime.Please follow me on Facebook @jbakervaor contact me baker4herndon@gmail.comor 571-306-2173.

William “Bill” J.McKenna(on the Ballot)bill4herndon@gmail.comhttps://www.billmckenna.netTown Councilmember(2-year term)

1 — I am running to continuethe work the citizens of Herndon have askedme to do. I am highly qualified, havingserved in multiple jurisdictions as acouncilmember. I understand the responsi-bilities of the office and use them to advo-cate for all, including Herndon Youth.

2 — I voted YES because working closelywith the town finance team I understood theirprocess, including increasing water and sewercapacities without impacting tax rates in prepa-ration for Metro. Preserving our AAA bond

rating with low debt and a timelysubmission of budget to the Com-monwealth was key so we canborrow in the future and savemoney on interest payments.

3 — I do not support any taxor fee increase raised as a lastminute concern, especially if weworked on the budget formonths, by which time councilshould have an understanding of

what was reviewed. I am willing to reviewour bottom line and to see where revenues are.

4 — We have to work on providing mul-tiple options for getting around town toreduce the burden on our roads. In pro-cess are circulator buses and walking/bik-ing paths to Metro from Herndon North ofthe Toll Road. We also have to increase oursewer and water capacities to meet the de-mand with Metro coming and we have to

do so without affecting already providedservices and keeping our tax rates stable.These need to be addressed while keepingresidents in the loop.

5 — I am smart enough to know that myinput is not based on a working knowledgeof this issue. I believe having input from ourArts groups in town, consultants and residentswill give us the Arts Center we aspire to.

6 — I have been extremely proactive onthis front and have been working with di-versified areas to get them involved andinformed. I have requested several newlyidentified people be appointed to our boardsand commissions. I have also engaged resi-dents concerned with our boards and com-missions. Through my focus group discus-sions, I have found people wanting to signup and participate.

7 — Originally, I did seek the endorsement

of the FCDC but after consulting former coun-cil members, public comments at councilmeetings, townspeople and others I respectin and around Herndon, I withdrew my con-sideration to focus on the issues of Herndon

8 — My support is 100 percent grassroots.It is across all political, economic and di-versity backgrounds and 100 percent vis-ible on my website. (Bottom of the Page,Click on Friends of Bill McKenna and it willtake you to my campaign committee page)I have nothing to hide. Funds raised out-side Herndon are close friends of mine span-ning my entire life.

9 — I have worked to bring the youth ofthis town into government with the HerndonYouth Advisory Council. This is a truly diversegroup of young people working for a bettertomorrow. I congratulate them on wantingto be a part of something bigger than them-selves, what service should be about.

Sheila A. Olemsaolem@gmail.comTown Councilmember (2-yearterm)

1 — To see the metro &downtown redevelopment,with Arts Center completed.My experience includes manycounty regional land use taskforce committees, 7 years on the Board ofZoning Appeals and 8 years on Town Coun-cil and Board member of 2 local Arts orga-nizations. Please see my biosheilaolem.com.

2 — No. At April 24th hearing myself andone other member asked to continue thehearing to the next public hearing (May 8)so more discussion could take place due toconcerns of myself and others. Our dead-line is June 30 each year, we had time.

3 — Yes. If the cost of running the townand providing the services we expect and

depend on goes up. At the Sept.4th work session it was sug-gested by a councilmember wecut the Spring & Fall clean upsto save funds. I don’t agreewith cutting services.

4 — With the arrival of Metroand the Downtown Redevelop-ment, Parking and Traffic willbe challenges for residents andbusinesses. Our staff can start

the process by contacting other communi-ties in NoVA to study permit parking inneighborhoods that will be impacted. Alsostart a citizens & local business advisorycommittee for the areas near the futureMetro to get the community involved in theprocess and make sure their concerns areaddressed. Stepping up improvements forwalking and biking in the entire town. TheW&OD trail is great but getting there is not.Visible Cross Walks such as such as the oneson Alabama Dr. between Elden and VanBuren are excellent for traffic calming,while crossing Spring St. between Elden and

Van Buren is very scary. Feeling safe willkeep people walking. We need to put upsignage to “share the road and bike racksall over town.

5 — The town will own the Center andshould be responsible for the physical plantwhich will be a town asset. One or morenonprofits should run programs & services.They will also promote the economic vital-ity of the downtown and seek communityinput for the success of the facility.

6 — One of the biggest obstacles to get-ting anyone involved on our Boards andCommissions is time. The other is makingsure town volunteers feel their involvementmatters. If you are reading this please, stepup, ask your friends and neighbors to dothe same. Our town is only as good as thecitizens that get involved in our governance.The Town of Herndon Needs You. Email –CouncilMemberOlem@gmail.com for anapplication.

7 — Yes, and I seek the endorsement of

all civic groups that are interested in thebetterment of the town. I have been rec-ommend for the Fairfax Democratic Com-mittee endorsement by the Dranesville Dis-trict Democratic Committee.

8 — As a longtime member of the FairfaxDemocratic Committee I have helped nu-merous candiates over the years. (Foust,Herring, Northam, Fairfax, Wexton,Boysko). The support I receive is from themany people I have worked with over theyears, do not expect to receive any cashsupport from the ‘committee’.

9 — Our citizens should feel their involve-ment matters. This inclusion will cultivateand inspire in our community to work withcouncil and staff to constantly improve theplace we live, work and play and havegrown to love. Want to chat? Contact mefor Coffee or Tea.CouncilMemberOlem@gmail.com

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Town Election

See Candidates, Page 12

Meet the Candidates for Mayor, Herndon Town CouncilCesar delAguilacesar4herndon@gmail.comCandidate for TownCouncilmember (2-year term)

1 — Like many citizens, myparents came to America for abetter life. Given this opportu-nity, I have achieved personal success andheld executive leadership positions withininnovative companies. I am running be-cause we deserve transparency, integrity,inclusiveness, and kindness on our council.I hope to move us in this direction.

2 — Rather than short statements at thepodium, with little give and take, thereshould be informal work sessions wherecitizens can help set objectives and rec-ommendations. I would have workedharder with colleagues to better under-stand their desired outcomes and avoidthe public frustration demonstrated by a

few council members.

3 — Real estate and personalproperty taxes are off the table.Too many residents live ontight budgets. We must activelysolicit input from the wholetown to make decisions thatare transparent and representthe views of a broad cross sec-tion of Herndon residents. Mygoal: fair, effective, representa-

tive decision-making.

4 — Most everyone in Herndon is drawntogether by the relatively close-knit neigh-borhoods reminding us of the benefits of asmall town. As metro encourages new de-velopment and our downtown fills in, weface the challenge of balancing this economicgrowth with a renewed commitment to re-tain our spirit of community. The secondchallenge is how to involve all our residents,from many backgrounds, into constructiveengagement in the affairs of our Town.Through our civic, recreational, and cultural

organizations we need to embrace all ourfamilies with opportunities to benefit fromliving in this wonderful diverse Town.

5 — Like other facilities in Herndon, theTown should own and maintain the physi-cal structure as a line item in the budget.The responsibility of programming shouldbe owned by the non-profit organizations.These non-profits can solicit volunteers,grants and donations. This is the way theArt Center was initially proposed.

6 — A town council that actively seeksinput from all Herndon residents will buildbridges into the community. Representativediversity has long been an issue; many citi-zens feel removed from government. Onepossible solution would be to create a tem-porary diversity ad-hoc committee. Thisgroup would be dedicated to developing anoutreach process and making researchedrecommendations to the council. We can bethe inclusive, representative CouncilHerndon deserves, but we must work to-ward that.

7 — Yes, as did all elected members ofthe Council. I earned the recommendationof the local Democratic Party. The endorse-ment was sought after tirelessly by all andno objections were made. Agreements andpledges were signed by everyone involved.The recommendation is being consideredby the county committee.

8 —So far, I have self-funded my election,however, I may take donations in the fu-ture. I will not accept funds from develop-ers. I think it is a conflict of interest andcouncil members that have received dona-tions from developer should recuse them-selves from voting on development issuesfacing the town.

9 — I want integrity and independentthinking, to invite conversations from morecitizens who might have new ideas. I wantto hear alternate opinions. Only then willwe get a complete picture of how to serveour whole community. When no one goesout to listen, many voices are never heard.

SigneFriedrichsHerndon Town CouncilCandidateSigneforHerndon@gmail.com

1❖ Serving fellow citizens❖ Town resident, home-

owner, taxpayer for over 20 years❖ Work/volunteer: Virginia Municipal

League Cities and Towns Committee, FairfaxCounty Economic Advisory Committee,Rotary, Herndon Festival Committee, TownEconomic Development Advisory Commit-tee, Arts Herndon/Council for the Arts ofHerndon, Dulles Regional Chamber of Com-merce, Member Relations Manager

2❖ Voted for the Town Budget in April, two

months early❖ Made multiple requests for extra time

to consider the budget because of citizenconcerns, was turned down multiple times

❖ Town record of budgeting conserva-tively made me willing to vote in favor de-spite wishing more time

3❖ No need for tax increase at this time❖ Careful planning will keep taxes at cur-

rent rate

4 — Among our biggest concerns are re-development and managing growth.

When Downtown redevelopment begins,the town faces some years of construction,affecting businesses and decreasing visitsto the historic town center unless managedcarefully. One possibility is working withPlacemaking and Arts Organizations to keepthe downtown a desirable destination sothat our restaurants do not experience adownturn.

Managing growth is a diffi-cult task. Water and Sewer arethe biggest costs; these will beborne by developers and newresidents over time. The Townis purchasing capacity now be-cause of the anticipated scar-city and increased future costs.Attention to sustainability willallow for ease of biking andwalking to metro and theDowntown, taking some of the

burden off roads and parking structures.

5 — The Town is building the Arts Centerwhich it will own. The president of ArtsHerndon, in conjunction with Town Staff,identified and solicited funds from the countyfor the buildout. Center should be run bynonprofits and pay for at least 75% of oper-ating costs, like the community center.

6 — Please ask your friends and neigh-bors to sign up at the Town Website to vol-unteer their services. Our town has a ro-bust community which I believe arises froma culture of volunteerism. For our commu-nity to truly function for all, we need tobring everyone to the table. This is not easybecause of economic and cultural barriers.I encourage residents to reach out and helptheir neighbors get involved. (75)

7 — I sought the endorsement of the lo-cal democratic committee. I was recom-mended to be endorsed. I welcome any fur-ther endorsements but am not actively seek-ing them. The endorsement I really careabout comes from the residents.

8 — I am receiving small donations fromfriends and neighbors, some of whom alsovolunteer. I am keeping my costs low so thatfundraising is not a focus of my campaign.Of course, I welcome further donations!

9 — I am pleased that the conversation

in Herndon is open to:❖ Smart development❖ Affordable housing❖ Blight❖ Sustainability❖ Parking❖ Dementia training, autism training and

compassionate policing❖ Maintenance of infrastructure outside

the town center❖ Density❖ LitterTo maintain a healthy community culture

we need to be open to new solutions.

Grace WolfCunninghamGrace4herndon@gmail.comTown Councilmember (2-year term)

1 — I am a 4 term incumbent, run-ning for a fifth to continue progresson Metro, Downtown, attractingbusiness, improving quality of life,increasing inclusiveness; and fiscal respon-sibility – my platform since 2010. MBA,BA Cornell University, entrepreneur, mom,Virginia Commissioner for the Arts, pastpresident Council for the Arts of Herndon

2 — I voted YES on the FY19 budget - thecombination of revenue and how taxpayerdollars are spent are correctly allocated. Mostof the budget goes toward salaries, equip-ment and the current year’s share of ourCapital Improvement Project. I am happywith the amount of grants for our nonprofits.

3 — I do not support any tax increases. Ifneeded for investments in infrastructure tosupport Metro or Downtown Redevelopment,I would consider a small increase to our BPOLor Meals tax. I do not support raising realestate or personal property taxes as residen-tial values are increasing quickly already.

4 — Preparing and investing in infrastruc-ture (roads, utilities, police, etc) for Metroand Downtown while keeping taxes as lowas possible, minimizing traffic and preserv-ing our small town feel. With a gap betweenwhen money is spent and recouped, we need

to conservatively budgetspending, issue bonds andattract new businesses toprotect residential andsmall business tax payers.Traffic management,green spaces, cultural en-richment and alternatemodes of transportationwill be my focus areas.

5 — The Town has al-ready approved $2.5MM in our Capital Im-provement Program for the buildout – en-tirely funded by taxpayers. An additional$1MM has been pledged by Fairfax County.Operation of the Art Center should be com-petitively bid out via the RFP process toensure the best operator and return on in-vestment

7 — Increased outreach is key and edu-cating our community as to why represen-tation is important. Our application andwebsite should be available in their lan-guage for our 2-3 largest bi-lingual com-munities. I spearheaded a similar project forFairfax County for voter registration. Weneed to increase partnerships with civicgroups, non profits, churches, and mosquesto continue to attract diverse applicants.Advertising in print, social media and ra-dio to attract diversity in appointments.

7 — I am not endorsed by either party,instead I am endorsed by every elected of-ficial that serves the Town of Herndon –

8 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Fall Fun & Entertainment

By David Siegel

The Connection

With announcement of its upcoming2018-19 CenterStage professionaltouring artist season, the Reston Com-

munity Center continues to enrich lives and buildcommunity as a core mission. The forthcomingprofessional touring artist series has a diverse mixof performances to whet appetites for the excep-tional and diverse in live entertainment.

“The Professional Touring Artist Series at RestonCommunity Center (RCC) kicks off with an excit-ing and eclectic trio of events.ºThe Bad Plus bringsyou searing jazz with a Rock and Roll sensibility,LGBTQ activist Armistead Maupinºwill delight youwithºhysterical reflections onºhisºgame-changingbook and filmº’Tales From The City’ and RobertSapolsky will discuss hisºilluminating research onthe neurobiology of behavior,” said PaulMichnewicz, RCC arts and entertainment direc-tor.

“I don’t think you willfind artists as diverse andas timely anywhere else.”added Michnewicz.“Don’t miss these seasonopeners or any of thesensational perfor-mances throughout theyear at the CenterStage.”

“I am so happy to bring The Bad Plus to debutthe Professional Touring Artist Series. Their mu-sic is fascinating; their personalities are extraor-dinary. I know you will love them,” notedMichnewicz.

The Bad Plus performance is titled “Never StopII;” the name of the trio’s just released album. The

group is a piano-bass-drums trio, noted for beingpassionate collaborators. The trio is pianist OrrinEvans, bassist Reid Anderson and drummer DaveKing.

For those less familiar with The Bad Plus, theyare an influential group noted for a fresh, jazz-funk infused style of music. The group is also notedfor cross musical genre boundaries to explore allthe infinite possibilities of musical notes. The triohas a legion of fans worldwide. Not long after theReston CenterStage performance, The Bad Plusheads off to Europe for several weeks. Than re-turns to perform at The Village Vanguard in NewYork City.

The trio’s recent album, “Never Stop II” is alloriginal music with each member contributingnew compositions. The album’s titles range from“”Hurricane Birds,” “Safe Passage,” “Lean in theArchway,” and “Kerosene II,” to name a few of thenine numbers. They are songs without words inwhich each member of the trio takes a lead role.

One last tidbit about The Bad Plus. Known for adiverse music style,the trio had abreakout triumphwith a high-spiritedcover of Nirvana’smega-hit “Smells LikeTeen Spirit.”

Reston CommunityCenter presents The

Bad Plus at Reston CenterStage, 2310 Colts NeckRoad, Hunters Woods Village Center, Reston, VA20191 on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 at 7 p.m. Tick-ets are $20; non-Reston Ticket Price: $30. Call703-476-4500 or visitwww.restoncommunitycenter.com.

Distinctive jazz stylizations of The Bad Plus.

New Season at CenterStage

Where and WhenReston Community Center presents The Bad Plus at

Reston CenterStage, 2310 Colts Neck Road, HuntersWoods Village Center, Reston, VA 20191.Performance:Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 at 7 p.m. Tickets: $20; for non-Reston Ticket Price: $30. Call 703-476-4500 or visitwww.restoncommunitycenter.com.

Photo by

Shervin Lainez

Courtesy of Reston

Community Center

The Bad Plusperforming atCenterStage,Reston Com-munity Center.

Submit entertainment announcementsat www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal-endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday.Photos/artwork encouraged.

ONGOINGArt Exhibit: “Peace and Identity.”

Through Oct. 23, gallery hours at atthe Waddell Gallery, NorthernVirginia Community College LoudounCampus, 21200 Campus Drive,Sterling. This League of RestonArtists exhibit of two-dimensional artand photography runs Sept. 23-Oct.23 with an opening receptionWednesday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m. This isPhase II of a two-part project thatbegan in the spring of 2018. Freeadmission. Visitwww.leagueofrestonartists.org.

Muscle Up Mondays. 6:30 p.m. MeetsMondays, May through October, atPavilion at Reston Town Center,11900 Market St., Reston. Freefitness classes presented by CRUNCHFitness-Reston group instructors. Call571-267-5000 or visitcrunchreston.com Facebook.com/CrunchReston.

Mr. Knick Knack! 10:30-11:15 a.m.May through October. At RestonTown Square Park. Freeperformances of heart-centeredmusic for children. No performanceon Columbus Day. Visitwww.restontowncenter.com/events.

Art Exhibit. Through Nov. 24, galleryhours at Greater Reston Arts Center,12001 Market St., Suite #103,Reston. The Greater Reston ArtsCenter (GRACE) presents Green isthe Secret Color to Make Gold, a soloexhibition exploring themes of dailyroutine and ritual featuring newwork by DC-based artist Caitlin TealPrice. Visit restonarts.org.

Reston Farmers Market. OpenSaturdays, through Dec. 1, 8 a.m.-noon at 1609 Washington Plaza N.,Reston. Fairfax County ParkAuthority markets are strictlyproducer-only meaning that vendorsmust grow or make from scratcheverything they bring to market. Call703-642-0128 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets.

Homegrown Yoga. Tuesday,Wednesday and Thursday nights atArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center St.,Herndon. Alison Adams is bringingHomegrown Yoga to ArtSpaceHerndon. All levels welcome. Drop inand take a class. $25 two weekunlimited pass or drop-in available.Visitwww.homegrownpoweryoga.com tosign up.

The Elden Street Tea Shop.Saturdays in ArtSpace Herndon, 750Center St., Herndon. Sip tea andenjoy a variety of locally made snacksand pastries while enjoying the latestart installations in the gallery. Visitwww.eldenstreettea.com.

Small Business Support Sundays.Visit independent stores andrestaurants, and those that supportsmall businesses at Reston TownCenter, offering specials, discounts,tastings, and localized treats everySunday. VisitSmallBusinessSupportSundays.com.

All-comers’ Group Fun Run.Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. atPotomac River Running, RestonTown Center, 11900 Market St.,Reston. For beginners or competitiverunners, come out for a fun, low-keyrun that is safe and social. Call 703-689-0999 or visitwww.potomacriverrunning.com/reston/.

Over-40 Softball League. A Fairfax-based league is looking for enoughplayers to form another team. Playersmust be at last 40 years of age to beeligible. All games are doubleheaders- played on Sundays at Bready Parkin Herndon between 11 a.m. and 6p.m. If interested, email

skeduman@aol.com.

WEDNESDAY/SEPT. 26Dog Days of Summer. 4-7 p.m. in the

Pavillion at Reston Town Center.Dogs and owners can frolic in thePavilion when it is transformed intoan off-leash play area each week.Treats, toys, areas to cool off, pet-friendly giveaways, and more. Free.Visit restontowncenter.com.

Reception: “Peace and Identity.” 6p.m. at at the Waddell Gallery,Northern Virginia CommunityCollege Loudoun Campus, 21200Campus Drive, Sterling. This Leagueof Reston Artists exhibit of two-dimensional art and photographyruns Sept. 23-Oct. 23. This is Phase IIof a two-part project that began inthe spring of 2018. Free admission.Visit www.leagueofrestonartists.org.

An Evening with Monica Hesse. 6

p.m. at Scrawl Books, 11911Freedom Drive, Reston. Nationalbestselling author of the true crimelove story, “American Fire” and theEdgar Award-winning young adulthistorical mystery novel, “Girl in theBlue Coat,” Monica Hesse comes toScrawl Books to discuss her newnovel, “The War Outside.” Allstudents interested in meeting theauthor are welcome and encouragedto join the conversation. Light

refreshments will be served, and anautographed copy of the book will beraffled off during the event. Visitwww.scrawlbooks.com or call 703-966-2111.

THURSDAY-SUNDAY/SEPT. 27-30Library Book Sale. Thursday, 10

a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.;Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. andSunday, noon-3:30 p.m. at RestonRegional Library, 11925 BowmanTowne Drive, Reston. More than 800boxes of gently used books are justwaiting to go home with some luckynew owners. No children’s books atthis sale. Members’ night Wednesday,5-8 p.m. Join, verify, or renewmembership at the door. $15 perhousehold; $5 for 65-and-over. EmailRestonFriendsPR@gmail.com.

SATURDAY/SEPT. 29Pumpkin Decorating Open House.

10 a.m.-noon at The Goddard School,2400 Dulles Town Blvd., Herndon.Enjoy a fun filled open house on withpumpkin decorating and other funfall activities for children up to age10 years old. Parents may tour TheGoddard School and learn abouttheir full- and part-tim programs.Call 703-653-0337.

Runway to the Cure FashionShow. 6 p.m. at the Pavilion atReston Town Center. The show,which will highlight designerfashions from sponsors, will alsofeature breast cancer survivors fromthe region who will serve as modelsand share their stories from illness totriumph. All proceeds will benefit theSusan G. Komen Breast CancerFoundation. Visit www.komen.org/runway.

A Journey to Latin America. 7:30-9:30 p.m. at United Christian Parishof Reston, 11508 N. Shore Drive,Reston. A Journey to Latin Americawith The Pro Arte Chamber Orchestraof Greater Washington. $5-$30. Call571-483-8444 or visitwww.pacodc.org.

SUNDAY/SEPT. 30Tri for Love Triathlon. 5:45 a.m.

Join two time cancer survivor TaylorLove and friends and participate inthe 12th Annual Tri for LoveTriathlon. Tri for Love is an event forboth rookie and veteran athletes;individual and team participation iswelcome. Tri for Love begins at TheHerndon Community Center with a400 yard indoor swim, transitioningto a 15.4 mile W&OD Trail bike ridefrom Ferndale Drive to Ashburn Roadand back. The event finishes with a5k run in and around the W&OD bikeand horse trail. Tri for Love Triathlonis USAT sanctioned. To register forTri for Love Triathlon go towww.tri4love.shutterfly.com or emailtri4love@hotmail.com.

THURSDAY/OCT. 4Meet the Artists. 2:15-3:40 p.m. at

Reston Community Center HuntersWoods, 2310 Colts Neck Road,Reston. Enjoy a free concert withBeverly Cosham, perennial favoritecabaret singer and entertainer, alongwith pianist and collaborator HowardBreitbart. Free. Call 703-503-3384 orvisit olli.gmu.edu.

SATURDAY/OCT. 6Dog Paddle. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Ridge

Heights Pool, 11400 Ridge HeightsRoad, Reston. Bring dogs for a finaldip this season. Current Dog Licenserequired. Dogs must remain undercontrol and sociable at all times orwill be asked to leave withoutrefund. Female dogs in heat are notpermitted. Fees are per dog. Registeronline at www.restonwebtrac.org

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 ❖ 9www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

Fall Fun & Entertainment

($8) or walk up ($10) on the day.YMCA Community Celebration. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

at YMCA Fairfax County Reston, 12196 SunsetHills Road, Reston. Free community grand re-opening. Everyone welcome. The celebrationincludes an open house and activities forchildren and adults of all ages. Tours,demonstrations, activities, giveaways,

refreshments, and a new member special offer arescheduled. Call 703-742-8800 or visitwww.ymcadc.org/locations/ymca-fairfax-county-reston/.

Flavors of Fall. Noon-11 p.m. at Reston TownCenter. Savor the flavor of autumn brews anddelicious fare from area restaurants. Enjoy food,wine, German and craft beers on tap, and liveentertainment. Free admission; purchase ticketsfor food and beverages. Visit restonflavors.com.

Flavors of Fall Cornhole Experience. 1-5 p.m.on Library Street at Reston Town Center. Thefour-hour tournament features prize packagesincluding travel, weekend get-aways, adventure,restaurants, and more. Register as an individualor a team. Sign up today as slots are limitedusing this special promo code: FlavorsCHTM for$10 off team registrations. Call 703-707-9045 orvisit RestonChamber.org.

Dance: “The Story of Our Lives.” 7:30 p.m. atThe CenterStage at Reston Community Center,2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. Gin DanceCompany, a performing arts modern dancecompany, presents ‘The Story of Our Lives.’ Theaudience will see the premiere of GDC ArtisticDirector Shu-ChenCuff’s newest work,‘We, The Moon, TheSun’ – an Asianculturally influencedwork blending ChineseOpera movements andmodern dance. Alsodebuting is Shu-Chen’s‘200 Feet’ inspired byauthor Jack Canfield’steachings. Visitgindance.org.

SUNDAY/OCT. 7Pumpkin 5K, & Kids’

Pumpkin Dash. 8:15a.m. at Reston TownCenter. Get off thecouch and get ready forthe Greater RestonChamber ofCommerce’s Pumpkin5K, & Kids’ PumpkinDash. Participants areencouraged to débuttheir Halloweencostumes and join inthe fun with family,friends and corporateteams. Use promo codeHealthyWorkPlace18 tosave $3 off adultregistration. Visitrestonflavors.com/reston-pumpkin-5k/.

2018 Arts Herndon Children’s LiteraryFestival. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at ArtSpace Herndon,750 Center St., Herndon. In collaboration withlocal author, Kwame Alexander, The NationalEndowment for the Arts and Arts Herndonpresents the first Arts Herndon Children’sLiterary Festival. A Newbery Medalist, Alexanderfounded the Capital BookFest in 2005, and hasbrought thousands of people year after year tovarious literary events. Panels and authorconversations, featuring adult and teen authors;featuring food, live entertainment, authors andartisans; purchase books, illustrations, specialtyartwork, and gifts; strolling entertainment andmore. Free and open to the public. Visitwww.artspaceherndon.org/arts-herndon-childrens-literary-festival.

SUNDAY-SATURDAY/OCT. 7-132018 Herndon’s Arts Week – celebrating the

arts in Herndon. With an event every day of theweek and something for everyone it promises tobe special. Bring the family out for theChildren’s Literary Festival or Kids Day at FryingPan Farm Park. Have a night out with friends ata Jazz Concert, take a Swirladelic Design &Wine class or find out the winners of the 10thAnnual Expressions Portrait Competition. Visitwww.artspaceherndon.org.

THURSDAY/OCT. 11Meet the Artists. 2:15-3:40 p.m. at RestonCommunity CenterHunters Woods, 2310Colts Neck Road, Reston.Enjoy a free concert withPeter Fraize, celebratedsaxophonist, and The NewPeter Fraize Quintetperform. Includes DCluminaries Paul Pieper(guitar), Jon Ozment(piano), Nathan Kawaller(bass), and LelandNakamura (drums). Free.Call 703-503-3384 or visitolli.gmu.edu.

SATURDAY/OCT. 27UCP Craft Fair. 10a.m.-4 p.m. at UnitedChristian Parish, 11508North Shore Drive,Reston. This juried fairshowcases handcraftedproducts from area artistsand crafters just in timefor the holiday season. Abake sale and lunch willbe available for purchase.A portion of the proceedswill benefit Herndon-Reston FISH, a local non-profit. Ample parking.Free. Emailsuemayn@msn.com.

Yoga @ArtSpace

Alison Adams is bringingHomegrown Yoga to ArtSpaceHerndon. All levels welcome.Tuesday, Wednesday and Thurs-day nights at ArtSpace Herndon,750 Center St., Herndon. Drop inand take a class. $25 two week un-limited pass or drop-in available.Visit homegrownpoweryoga.comto sign up.

Alison Adams ofHomegrown Yoga.

Calendar

Improving English

One-To-One English Conversation.Mondays, 1 p.m. at Reston Library,Reston Library, 11925 BowmanTowne Drive, Reston. Free. Multipleone-on-one practice sessions with avolunteer are available each week.Call 703-689-2700 to reserve a spot.

Pre-Beginners. Wednesdays 10-11a.m. at Reston Library, RestonLibrary, 11925 Bowman TowneDrive, Reston. Free. Call 703-689-2700 to reserve a spot.

Beginners. Tuesdays 10-11 a.m. withBeth; Thursdays 10-11 a.m. withGenie; Fridays 10-11 a.m. with Ivan.At Reston Library, Reston Library,11925 Bowman Towne Drive,Reston. Free. Call 703-689-2700 toreserve a spot.

Intermediate. Mondays 10-11 a.m.with Rick; Wednesdays, 1-2 p.m.with Susan; Wednesdays 2-3 p.m.with Sharoni. At Reston Library,Reston Library, 11925 BowmanTowne Drive, Reston. Free. Call 703-689-2700 to reserve a spot.

Advanced. Thursdays 10-11:30 a.m.with Richard; Fridays, 11 a.m.-12:30p.m. with Mary. At Reston Library,Reston Library, 11925 BowmanTowne Drive, Reston. Free. Call 703-689-2700 to reserve a spot.

10 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

News

Pho

to

by C

yrus So

bh

an

i

Sen. KaineComes to Town

The Dulles Area Democrats hostedU.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) at the AmphoraDiner Deluxe in Herndon, Monday,Sept.17 as guest speaker. Kaine dis-cussed the upcoming November generalelection and current events in Congress.Afterward, Kaine took questions. Kaineis one of only 29 people in the UnitedStates who has been a mayor, a gover-nor and a senator. During hispresentation, Kaine noted that his favor-ite title is that of “Mayor.” Pictured: Sen.Kaine with, from left, Jennifer Baker,Herndon Vice Mayor; Grace WolfCunningham, Herndon TownCouncilmember; and Lisa C. Merkel,Herndon Mayor.

By Bill McKenna

Herndon Town Councilmember

As a Herndon TownCouncilmember, I havethe honor to oversee and

chair the Herndon Youth AdvisoryCouncil (HYAC), now in its secondyear. The HYAC serves as a link be-tween the Herndon Town Coun-cil, middle and high school prin-cipals, other adult leaders andyouth. The Herndon Town Coun-cil appoints its members annually.Youth Councilmembers live in theTown of Herndon or attend classesat Herndon Middle or HerndonHigh schools. Their role is to ad-vise the Herndon Town Council onactivities, issues and decisions re-lating to youth, and advocate forlegislation that caters to the inter-ests and desires of the town’s di-verse youth population.

At the HYAC’s first meeting ofthe 2018-2019 school year, heldThursday evening, Sept. 20, 2018,Town of Herndon Mayor Lisa C.Merkel introducedCouncilmember Richard B.Kaufman who the Herndon TownCouncil appointed in July 2018, tofill a vacancy created following thedeath of Councilmember JeffDavidson.

Merkel also provided updates onthe Herndon Downtown Redevel-opment Project, Metro Silver Line,and the Herndon High SchoolRenovations and AdditionsProject.

As the Herndon Town

Councilmember charged with theHYAC oversight, I reviewed thestatus of last year’s projects initi-ated by the 2017-2018 HerndonYouth Advisory Council. Proposedprojects included a Teen Center atthe Herndon Community Center,a greater voice in after-school pro-grams at the Middle School leveland the creation of a Buddy Sys-tem with seniors, so students could“hang out or study.”

I announced that last year’sHYAC provided input attesting tothe need for a place for teens togather, as Youth Councilmembershad identified there are not manyplaces young teens can go in theTown of Herndon and not spendmoney.

I also reviewed that I had metwith “A. J.” Fuller, After SchoolProgram Specialist at HerndonMiddle School to help studentsbuild a bridge between themselvesand local government ensuringthey have a greater voice in theproposed planning of after-schoolprograms.

Finally, I told how I had met withrepresentatives at Herndon HarborHouse, a residential communitywhere seniors with moderate in-

Herndon Youth Advisory Council MeetsYouthCouncilmembersseek a teencenter, input,social media con-nections and ac-tive service roles. From left-top, Ian Nordling, Ankit Poudel, Laura Evans,

Lucy Brown, Katie Evans, Claire Jones, Tea Geary, LilaMerkel (guest), Katie Grover (new appointee), KadeCralle; Second row, floor, Herndon CouncilmembersRichard Kaufman and Bill McKenna, HYAC Chair andfounder, Mayor Lisa C. Merkel and Rev. Stephen Smith-Cobbs gather in the Herndon Town Council Chambersfor the first meeting of the 2018-2019 Herndon YouthAdvisory Council. Not pictured, Kenton Moore, AndrewFreeman, Zachary Skalaban and Piper Luczak (newappointee).

comes pursue active lifestyles. Ireminded the YouthCouncilmembers that last year,they sought to be part of a “BuddySystem” and visit the seniors wholived at Harbor House and dothings with them such as playboard games or chat.

Youth Councilmembers then dis-cussed wanting to have a commu-nication presence on social media.This would allow other middle andhigh school students to know whatthey were doing, and more impor-tantly, communicate with them sothat they could ask questions andparticipate not only in the processbut serve in volunteer roles aswell.

Reverend Stephen Smith-Cobbsat Trinity Presbyterian Church inHerndon gave a presentationabout community outreach pro-grams his organization had beendoing. One program is LINKAgainst Hunger, a 501 (c)(3) char-ity organization that suppliesemergency food to people withinthe Herndon, Sterling, andAshburn communities. YouthCouncilmembers asked questionsabout volunteering, especiallyaround the holidays.

Pho

to

co

ntributed

Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 ❖ 11www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

Not on hold with the Oncology depart-ment today. Not elbowing Twinkle or Biscuit off my writing tablet as I sit and write this week’s column. And not going hungry from the previous Friday’s infusion (a week plus has passed so the worst side effect of the treatment has passed).

In general, aside from waiting for my upcoming CT scan on Sept. 26, I am glad that soon I can get on with my life.

You’ll note I didn’t say fate. That word has too negative a connotation. And my nature, as you regular readers know, is as a positive/glass half full kind of person. So, as I approach this next milestone, I view it not so much as a millstone but more so as just another rock that hopefully leaves me not in a very hard place.

The pre-existing cancer diagnosis is al-ready hard enough. But after living with it for so long and enduring as many rounds of che-motherapy, side effects, lab work, diagnostic scans, 24-hour urine collection and all the associated anxiety surrounding a “terminal” diagnosis as I have, one, at least this one, has learned to live with the miscellaneous demands.

It’s not to imply that doing so is easy, but

that end, which ultimately won’t be my end, assimilating the good, bad and the incredibly worrisome into some sort of mental spread-sheet seems the only logical pursuit.

Either you learn to take it in stride or you’ll die not trying.

And since dying, so far as we know any-how, is so much less appealing than living, I’m striving to balance my equilibrium and never get too high or too low no matter the news. (Yes. I’m a Libra so balance is very much a part of my process.)

That’s not to say that there aren’t incredi-ble pressures and challenges that us cancer patients have to manage, it’s more that to say that laughing in the face of death is not a sign of weakness but more so a sign of enlight-ened strength.

Part of that strength is respecting the process with which cancer patients are all too familiar and moreover, and most impor-tantly, understanding and respecting what we don’t have control over. There’s an element of letting go which enhances one’s quality of life and minimizes obstacles as well.

Doing what you can and not fretting about what you can’t, in addition to keeping an open mind, combines to smooth out the rough edges and to focus on the path ahead. The ‘path ahead’ being the goal.

I remember that exact philosophy being expressed by my oncologist at the original Team Lourie meeting back in late February 2009. When it was suggested that my moth-

my youth or my dalliances in college in the ’70s might be relevant/have had an impact on my lung cancer diagnosis, my oncologist would have none of it.

Retrieving fragments of history and/or assigning blame for less-than-ideal behavior was irrelevant to him. His concern was not the past, it was the present/future. We were to be looking/planning ahead and treating forward.

And so here I sit, very much having been treated forward.

At present, I am my oncologist’s prize cow, a stage IV, non-small cell lung cancer survi-vor, alive and reasonably well nine years and nearly seven months into an initial “13 month to two year” prognosis. After hearing that grim prognosis, I never would have imagined that in August 2018, I’d still be alive.

But here I am. Not a victim of my own circumstances.

Woe I’llNever Be

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

THROUGH DECEMBERWhite House Ornaments. Assistance League of

Northern Virginia has begun its annualfundraising sale of White House Ornaments. The2018 ornament honors Harry S. Truman,highlighting changes made to the White Houseduring his administration. One side features theTruman Balcony and the reverse features theBlue Room. Assistance League is an allvolunteer, non-profit organization. Proceedsbenefit our community-based programs thatsupport local low income children. $22 (+shipping if mail delivery required). Emailburgessgl@verizon.net or visit www.alnv.org.

VOTER REGISTRATION AND ID EVENTSThe Fairfax County Office of Elections

(12000 Government Center Parkway Suite 323,Fairfax) is open daily during normal businesshours to provide county residents theopportunity to register to vote or obtain a freevoter photo ID if needed. Applicants will need tocomplete a photo voter ID application, have aphoto taken and sign a digital signature pad.Call 703-222-0776.

The following special events will also provideopportunity to register to vote and/or get aphoto Virginia Voter card.

❖ Wednesday/Sept. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., HerndonSenior Center, 873 Grace St #1, Herndon.

VOLUNTEERS WANTEDAARP Foundation Tax-Aide is looking to

expand its team of volunteers for the upcomingtax season. Tax-Aide, now in its 51st year, offersfree in-person preparation and assistance toanyone, especially those 50 and older, who can’tafford a tax preparation service. Volunteersmake a difference in their communities byassisting many older, lower-income taxpayers,and their families, who might otherwise miss outon the tax credits and deductions they’veearned. To learn about volunteer opportunities,visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277).

THROUGH SEPT. 28Preference Poll. The Reston Community Center

(RCC) Board of Governors announces fivecandidates for its 2018 Preference Poll. Thisyear’s candidates are incumbents William G.Bouie, Gerald Zavala and Lisa Sechrest-Ehrhardt, as well as new candidates RichardStillson and April Tan. The poll seekscommunity guidance to fill three 3-yearpositions. Each property in Small District 5(SD5) will receive a ballot in the mail. Mail-inballots must be received by the counting agent(a pre-addressed envelope is provided with theballot; postage is required) no later than 5 p.m.on Thursday, Sept. 27. Walk-in and onlineballots must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday,Sept. 28. Visit www.restoncommunitycenter.comor call 703-476-4500.

WEDNESDAY/SEPT. 26How to Attract Employees. 8:30-10 a.m. at

Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, 886Metro Center Drive, Suite 230, Reston. DianaWaller of Chasing Dragons will present on wayssmall to medium size companies candifferentiate themselves in this job market. Call703-707-9045 or visit www.restonchamber.org

2018 Virginia Senatorial Debate. 5-8 p.m. atCapital One Bank. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) andChairman Corey Stewart (R), Chuck Todd ofNBC’s Meet The Press, will moderate, televisedlive on NBC4.

THURSDAY/SEPT. 27Hurricane Relief Drive. Donation items due by

Thursday, Sept. 27 to National Realty, 11890Sunrise Valley Drive. Open 9-5. My Guys Movingand National Realty have teamed up for a “Fillthe Truck” Hurricane Florence Relief Drive.Consider donating toiletries, baby formula,water, cleaning supplies, diapers, non-perishablefoods, baby wipes, pet food and supplies,blankets, socks, batteries, and clothes. Emailkeithhartke@gmail.com orpaulhartke22@gmail.com for more.

Tips for Communicating with Dementia.11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Hunters Woods at TrailsEdge, Pre-Opening Showroom, 2254B HuntersWoods Village Shopping Center, Reston. Free toall who support and care for those withAlzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.Caregivers and professionals welcome. A lightlunch will be provided. Space is limited. RSVP tocnickel@integracare.com or 703-708-4047.

Bulletin

12 ❖ Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ❖ September 26 - October 2, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

from US Congress to the Board of Supervi-sors, School Board, General Assembly andthe Mayor. I am endorsed by Asian Ameri-can Action Fund and Democratic AsianAmericans of Virginia.

From Page 7

Town Election

Meet the Candidates for Mayor, Herndon Town Council8 — My campaign receives contributions

from local supporters, local small busi-nesses, Town residents and fellow electedofficials. Friends, family, colleagues, youth& AAPI groups provide volunteer support.All financial information about my cam-

paign is online at the VA State Board of Elec-tions – search for my committee, Grace WolfCunningham for Herndon.

9 — Preserving the special feel ofHerndon. Awarded Town’s DistinguishedService Volunteer of the Year. First Korean

Pradip Dhakaldhakalforherndontowncouncil@gmail.comTown Councilmember (2-yearterm)

1 — To serve the communitythat I am part of. I have livedin this community for over 6years now. I have a passion towork for this community, tobecome part of making this historical townof Herndon a prosperous and a model town.

2 — I would vote ‘Yes’ for the FY 2019Budget. My recommendation or suggestion

would be increasing the rev-enues by facilitating and at-tracting more business and bycollecting more taxes (notthrough the consumers).

3 — Tax has to be balanced.I will support balanced taxes.More taxes can be collected notby increasing the rates but cre-ating an environment to havemore entrepreneurs and pro-

fessional service providers.

4 — Herndon needs to be ready to hostthe migrating people from other states, as

the job is being created/transferred inNoVA. Metro development and downtowndevelopment is a must. But preserving theold and historic essence of Herndon isequally important.

5 — We need to make art center a selfsustaining entity by promoting exhibitions,and hosting more events etc. Some fund-ing is needed but making it self sustainingis a must.

6 — I am a big advocate of Inclusiveness.The biggest strength we have in Herndonis our diversity. We need equal representa-tion and inclusiveness.

7 — We decided to run for candidacy inthe last minute. Therefore, did not seek forand/or missed the party endorsement.

8 — We are raising funds from all thefriends, well wishers and community mem-bers. We have also got huge support fromcommunity members for volunteering inour campaign.

9 — Inclusiveness, public safety, makingfinancially sustaining Herndon, promotingentrepreneurship, promoting the use of al-ternate energy, and promoting health andhygiene by supporting parks and recreation,trails and cycling is our top priority.

William “Sean”Kenis Jr.sean@kenisforherndon.comTown Councilmember (2-yearterm)

1 — We are 25+ yearHerndon residents. We loveHerndon! We want to providemore government transparency and ensureopen conversations, challenge and debatepotential impacts, and provide detailed in-formation to those who want or need it.Transparency builds confidence and insuresbalance to make the most beneficial andhonest decisions.

2 — Considering financial impacts andpossible amendments, it’s not realistic toanswer yes/no. Keeping with the need toincrease debate, balance and transparency,we need substantially more conversationabout spending and fiscal policy. Folks makedecisions about where to live based on taxburden. Herndon must keep spending re-

sponsible and consistent.3 — 17 percent/$9M In-

crease; this is substantial, wouldwe manage our family financesthis way. All funding is collectedfrom businesses/residents. Wemust be faithful and account-able stewards. Decisions mustbe carefully considered and fis-cally responsible to benefit ev-eryone. During times of increas-ing property values, can we ef-

fectively reduce the tax burden?4 — Based on the survey sponsored by

the town published in June 2018, the twomost important impacts now and in the fu-ture are taxes and traffic. As an examplefrom the survey comments: “expensive tolive/work, terrible traffic, crowding, and Énot happy”. It’s always best to address theissues as identified by the people livingthem. Sensible development is at the coreof these impacts. Rapid growth, withoutreasonable and balanced input from allsources, can cause increased traffic, infra-structure issues and tax burdens. The town

is growing and developing rapidly. Are welooking for sensible solutions to guardagainst traffic congestion and over-devel-opment? Looking forward, we must addressthese issues with inclusion and respect tobenefit everyone in Herndon!

5 — More respectful/inclusive conversa-tion is needed and input from the commu-nity is essential. Looking at successful es-tablished Arts Programs and using theirmodel as a basis, is a practical way forward.Many local communities have a wide spec-trum of artistic/theatrical offerings and asuccessful base of private, government andbusiness funding.

6 — Term limits! Local elections are anopportunity to keep party politics out of theconversation; it’s a chance for individuals/groups to think and vote for/against issuesdirectly affecting Herndon. Changes thatcan help drive inclusive membership areterm limits and district representation. Termlimits ensure new, creative thinking on aregular basis. District Representation en-sures that each of the three Herndon dis-tricts has a representative who lives in and

supports the needs of their constituents.7 — No. Historically, we’ve seen a party

impact in Herndon as some political par-ties have invested funds to elect represen-tatives in independent elections, wheretown issues should be the priority. Duringthis cycle, one party accepted paid applica-tions in a selection process to determine thecandidates to receive the party’s support.

8 — Financial support of our campaignhas been grass roots and mostly personallyfunded. We believe in the importance of thiselection and the future of Herndon. To datewe have received a few contributions fromindividuals, and we have not received anydonations from any businesses, developers,or political entities.

9 — When opinions are considered hon-estly, decisions transparently debated, weare motivated to contribute/participate inthe process. When we respect the thoughts,opinions, ideas of everyone, we’ll do what’sbest for Herndon! The best decisions aremade because we embrace a balanced or-ganization that fosters debate that alwaysincorporates transparency, inclusion.

Roland TaylorTaylor4Herndon@gmail.comTown Councilmember (2-yearterm)

1 — It has become very con-cerning over the last few termshow the Council members havebeen running on block ticketsand endorsed party partisanslates. My qualification are over thirty yearsof both domestic and international crimi-nal justice and rule of law experience andas a University Associate Professor.

2 - Council members should work hardto research all areas of the budget as thecitizen’s representative. There was a 17.7percent increase in the FY 2019 Budget fromthe adopted FY 2018 Budget.

3 — Town taxes have to beas low as possible due to theadditional Fairfax taxes paid bycitizens. Taxes were held down,however user fees, and bothwater and sewer rates in-creased. I will not support anincrease on meal tax and workto control spending and notpenalize businesses.

4 — Voters have to decidewhy they selected to live in Herndon and ifthat quality of life style will continue witha higher density rezoning model the cur-rent Town Council is supporting. With rapidgrowth, there are the equal impacts to in-creased traffic congestion and school over-crowding. We need a diverse Council andnot yes votes across the board. There somevery big projects on the table that will havelong term impacts to Herndon.

5 — The Art Center build out plan hasalways been the responsibility of the ten-ants of the center and not taxpayers. Yearlygrants have tripled over the last few termsthe citizens have paid too much already. TheTown will have to operate the Town’s prop-erty to protect our investment.

6 — The Town should recruit and men-tor diverse members of the community toencourage their participation in communityservice. This will create a safe and invitingenvironment for our citizens from diverseor endangered populations within the town.There is an obvious lack of diversity on allboards and commissions. The block ticketcampaigns also damage and disenfranchisesthis relationship in our diverse community.

7 — I have not, nor would ever seek apartisan party endorsement for town office.

Local elections have no place for bias, divi-sive, or hateful politics. It has been disap-pointing to see the town elections becomedivisive. Party and block/group tickets dis-enfranchise citizen from seeking officeagainst party funded groups.

8 — My last campaign and this campaignhave been totally self-funded. If I wouldaccept contributions they will not be fromparty officials, developers, or reality pro-fessionals. Many friends and family arehelping to get our message out for change.

9 — It has become very concerning thatthe Council members have been running onblock tickets and endorsed party partisanslates. The continuous unopposed votes andlack of public debate has caused a chillingeffect on citizen input. A more open coun-cil will allow for more voices to be heardand respected.

American woman elected in the Common-wealth of Virginia. Increased civic engage-ment and outreach. Requested the Town’sfirst LGBTQ Pride Month Proclamation.Received the County’s Women’s HistoryMonth Proclamation. Voted to adopt Cam-paign Finance Reporting.