Send announcements to The Loudoun Connection, 7913 Westpark Drive, McLean, VA 22102, e-mail to loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com or fax to 703-917-0991. Deadline is Friday, two weeks before the event. Photos/artwork encouraged. For more information, call Jennifer Lesinski at 703-917-6454.
This free listing is reserved for activities and events that are open to the public at no or minimal cost.
Sahaja yoga is a simple and powerful meditation technique that balances physical, mental, emotional being. It works on your inner subtle energy system and helps greatly in reducing stress and improving your health. It can be practiced by people of any age and does not involve any complex exercises. This free seven-week course will help to achieve inner balance aided with audio/video presentations, guided meditations and practical workshops. Begins Tuesday March 7, 7:15-8:30 p.m., at the story time room, Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Sponsored by Vishwa Nirmala Dharma, a nonprofit organization, www.dcsahajayoga.org. Call: 703-340-8983;
e-mail info@dcsahajayoga.org.
Ceramics, Tuesday, March 7, from 10:30 a.m.-noon; Wednesday, April 5, from 1-3 p.m.; and Thursday, May 4, from 10:30 a.m.-noon, Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. Cost $21 for members, $22 for nonmembers per session. Registration required, call 703-430-2397.
Nature Explorers, ages 3-4. Dig deeper into natureÕs world of colors, movements, sounds, textures and more while exploring the outdoors. All classes run Friday mornings, from 11 a.m.-12 p.m., and cost $6.75 per child per class. Classes run March 10-June 2. Themes this spring include singing birds, colors of spring, jumping frogs, quack like a duck, water: drops, puddles and ponds, and butterflies. Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestals Gap Road, Sterling. Call 703-444-1275.
The Loudoun Cooperative Extension Office will be holding a free workshop, Pruning Young Trees for Structure and Form, in cooperation with Jay Banks, urban forester, Town of Leesburg, March 10, 9 a.m., in the extension conference room located in the Wachovia Bank Building at 30-B Catoctin Circle, S.E., Leesburg. Includes classroom training Ñ video and short discussion, followed by outside, hands-on pruning Ñ American yellowwood trees close to the airport in Leesburg. Dress for the weather and bring own pruning tools. Free, but must call or e-mail Sue Naille in the Cooperative Extension Office to register, 703-777-0373, snaille@vt.edu.
Journey of the Koshas yoga weekend workshop, teacher training classes Friday, March 10; Saturday, March 11 and Sunday, March 12. Cost is $195 and the program is recognized for continuing education credits with Yoga Alliance. Call to register 703-771-0006 or visit the Web site www.experienceanahatayoga.com.
GreenWorks Garden Center, 42660 John Mosby Highway, Chantilly, will be holding free gardening seminars.
* Saturday, March 11, from 11 a.m.-noon. Pruning 101, Peter Deahl, ISA certified arborist, co-founder of The Pruning School, shows the proper pruning techniques for healthy trees and shrubs. Bring hand pruners.
* Saturday, March 18, from 11 a.m.-noon. Lawn Care: How to Grow a Beautiful Lawn, Ken Lang, president, Ultra-Turf, explains the steps of growing a healthy, thriving lawn.
Refreshments provided. To register or for questions call 703-327-2344 or e-mail beth.early@gwli.net.
The Loudoun Academy of the Arts is offering the following workshops:
* The Figure and Still Life with Dodi Petro, March 11 and 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both days, $225 plus $40 model fee.
* Understanding Your Digital Camera by Jeanette Burkle, Saturday, March 11, from 1-5 p.m.
* Oil Painting Master Class with Maggie Siner, March 24-26, 6-9 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Cost
of the workshop is $300.
The Loudoun Academy of the Arts is a 501c3 organization that offers fine art instruction, gallery exhibition space and studios for working artists. Visit www.loudounacademy.org or call 703-777-8043.
In preparation for its summer production of William ShakespeareÕs ÒThe Merchant of VeniceÓ Not Just Shakespeare announces a free introduction to acting workshop. Participants will develop a monologue suitable for auditions. Learn to maximize physical, emotional and vocal potential onstage through the character. The only requirement is a willingness to learn. The workshop, directed by artistic director Tim Jon, will run for five Saturdays, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., beginning March 11, at the Round Hill Center, 20 High St., Round Hill. It is produced with the support of the Franklin Park Performing and Visual Arts Center. To register call Tim Jon at 703-777-4747, Ext. 24 or contact NotJustShakespeare@adelphia.net.
Park Pals, ages 2-3. Discover the outdoors with a grown-up pal. See a bird, meet a beetle, visit a forest and more, while focusing on monthly nature themes. All classes run Monday afternoons, from 12:45-1:45 p.m., March 13-June 12. The cost is $6.75 per child per class. Themes this spring include spring is sprouting, frogs and friends, birds and nests and turtles. Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestals Gap Road, Sterling. Call 703-444-1275.
The Loudoun Cooperative Extension is offering a Virginia gardener short course, which will run throughout the year as a series of sessions in March 13, March 20, and April 3; July 10, July 24, and Aug. 7; Oct. 30 and Nov. 6. The course will be held at the Extension Office, 30 B Catoctin Circle, S.E., Leesburg, from 6-8 p.m., on those dates.
Participants can choose to attend one session or all eight. Cost is $10 per session or $65 to register to attend all eight sessions. Those who complete all eight sessions will receive a certificate of completion at the closing of the short course in November. A registration flyer can be downloaded from the Loudoun County Extension Web site http://www.loudoun.gov/services/agri.htm or it is also available at local libraries. Call or e-mail the Master Gardener Volunteer Helpline Office and ask to have a registration flyer mailed, 703-771-5150, Ext. 107mg@vt.edu.
Meditation techniques with R. Assante Clarke, Tuesday, March 14, 2 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St. For adults. Call 703-430-9500.
Baby Signs, a sign, say and play class featuring Jennifer Moyer, at Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Wednesday, March 15, 2 p.m. Learning the benefits of signing with your baby, as well as some popular signs, in the context of songs, games and activities. For babies 6-24 months and their caregivers. Advanced registration required by March 14, call 703-430-9500.
The Sterling Annex is offering three dances classes Wednesdays, March 15-May 3. Preregistration required, call 703-430-6673. Fee.
* Tiny Dancers Mom and Tot, 10-10:45 a.m. Ages 2-3. An introduction to ballet with custom made costumes and props to encourage dancing to story interpretation.
* Creative Movement to Music, 11-11:45 a.m. Ages 3-4. Motivating movement class for boys and girls with dance techniques and costumes.
* Tiny Dancers Hip-Hop, 12-12:45 p.m. Ages 4-5. Basic techniques of tap and jazz introduced through stories, costumes and props.
Toddler Treks, ages 1-2. Pack your child in a stroller or backpack and join other parents and their little ones on a hike to discover the sunshine, sprouting trees, tadpoles, goslings and newly opened flowers that arrive during spring. All classes run Friday mornings, from 10-10:45 a.m. and cost $5 per child per class. Classes run March 17-June 9. Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestals Gap Road, Sterling. Call 703-444-1275.
Nature Adventurers, ages 2 and 3. Search for signs of spring, animals hidden by the grasses and trees and the colors of the park while enjoying nature. All classes run Friday mornings, from 10-11 a.m. and costs $6.75 per child per class. Classes run March 17-June 9. Themes this spring include I spy nature, spring ahead, hidden animals, over the rainbow hike, swimming, dipping, diving and bugs on the go. Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestals Gap Road, Sterling. Call 703-444-1275.
Wee Play will be holding a St. Patrick's Day spring open house Friday, March 17. Classes will be held 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon. The programs are free. Dig in the bean tables, sing familiar songs and hear a story in circle time, make a St. Patrick's Day art project, play in the activity room, enjoy a green snack and receive stickers. Appropriate for ages 20 months- 4 years, parents or caregivers must accompany child. Contact Kathy at 703-403-8699 or visit the Wee Play Web site www.weeplayinfo.com.
Shelley's Wedding Basket workshop, Saturday, March 18, from 9:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m., at the Sterling Annex, 22084 Shaw Road, led by instructor Deborah Wells. Basket is plaited-square-bottom, 8 inches by 8 inches and 10 inches tall; for use as an Easter basket or wedding favors. Cost $28 for county residents, $42 for nonresidents, plus $15 supply fee payable to instructor. Bring a bucket, towel, measuring tape, utility scissors, pencil, awl or ice pick and handful of spring-type clothes pins. Call 703-430-6673.
Introduction to Indian Bollywood dance class at the Sterling Annex, 2208 Shaw Road. Learn terminology and dance steps. Thursdays, March 23-May 18, 4:30-5:15 p.m. Cost $60. Call 703-430-6673.
Douglass Community Center, 407 East Market St., Leesburg is offering Spring Time Fun craft class, Thursday, March 23, 11- 11:45 a.m. For age 3. $6. To register call the Douglass Community Center at 703-771-5913 or e-mail dcc@loudoun.gov.
The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling, is offering a ceramics class, Wednesday, April 5, from 1-3 p.m.; and Thursday, May 4, from 10:30 a.m.-noon. Cost $21 for members and $22 for nonmembers per session. Call 703-430-2397.
Photo editing and restoration class, Tuesday, April 4, from 1-5 p.m., Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. Cost $29 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Registration required, call 703-430-2397.
Douglass Community Center, 407 East Market St., Leesburg is offering Lovely Ladybugs craft class, Tuesday, April 4, 10-10:45 a.m. For ages 3-5. Make a ladybug visor. $6. To register call the Douglass Community Center at 703-771-5913 or e-mail dcc@loudoun.gov.
Hatha yoga class for adults, Thursdays, through April 6, from 7-8 p.m., at the Sterling Annex, 22084 Shaw Road. Covers the fundamentals with an emphasis on strength, flexibility and stamina plus breathing techniques to reduce stress. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat or blanket. Cost $48 for county residents, $72 for nonresidents. Preregistration required, call 703-430-6673.
Gentle yoga, Tuesdays, April 11-June 27, from 6:30-7:45 p.m., Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. Cost $103.50 for members, $115.50 for nonmembers for 12 sessions. Registration required, call 703-430-2397.
Fishing class at Banshee Reeks. Meet at Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve in Leesburg for some fishing. Bring a pole and a snack. Parents or children 16 years of age and older
must bring a valid fishing license. Class will meet Saturday, April 15, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Cost is $6 per child. Participants must be age 5 or older. Contact Douglass Community Center at 703-771-5913 or e-mail at dcc@loudoun.gov.
Cuddle bugs play group at Douglass Community Center, 407 East Market Street, Leesburg. Meet other parents and encourage children to explore the world around them, develop motor skills, and socialize. Preregistration is required, call 703-771-5913 or e-mail at dcc@loudoun.gov. Classes are held Fridays, April 21, April 28, May 12, May 26, June 9. All classes are from 9:30-10:15 a.m., and cost $6.
Douglass Community Center, 407 East Market St., Leesburg is offering Mother's Day Surprise craft class, Thursday, May 11, 11-11:45 a.m. For ages 3-5. Make a special surprise form mom. $6. To register call the Douglass Community Center at 703-771-5913 or e-mail dcc@loudoun.gov.
Douglass Community Center, 407 East Market St., Leesburg is offering Flag Day craft class, Tuesday, June 13, 10:30-11:15 a.m. For ages 3-4. $6. To register call the Douglass Community Center at 703-771-5913 or e-mail dcc@loudoun.gov.
The Sterling Annex Community Center, 22084 Shaw Road, is offering music classes for children 0-18 months to 3 years. Classes will be held Thursdays, staring at 9:45 a.m. and the fee is $120 for 12 weeks. Call 703-430-6673 or 703-297-2627 or visit www.kamstonkidsmusic.com for registration details.
Lunch Bunch Afternoons are being offered by the Sterling Annex, 22084 Shaw Road, featuring crafts, outdoor and indoor play and lunch for children. Bring bag lunch, no microwaveable or refrigerated foods. Classes follow the Loudoun County Public Schools' schedule and meet Wednesdays and Fridays, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Drop in fee $5 per hour. Call 703-430-6673.
On every first and third Tuesday of the month at 9 a.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., offers ESL basic computer skills needed for Internet, e-mail and word processing. Recommended for speakers of English as a second language. Limit 10 students per session. Register by calling 703-430-9500 V/TYY.
Prenatal Education. Loudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Parkway, Leesburg, presents workshops for expectant parents. Admission is free, but registration is required. Call 703-779-2694.
English classes Thursdays, from 7-9 p.m., at Purcellville Baptist Church. Five different leveled classes offered, including one for au pairs. One time $15 registration/book fee. Free child care and homework assistance for older children. Two days a week of English instruction offered for beginners class. Walk-ins welcome. For more information, leave your name and number at 540-338-6400.
Yoga for a Special Child, Thursdays, from 4-4:30 p.m. $5 per child or donation to UCP fund. Anahata Center for Yoga & Wellness, 112 South St., S.E., Leesburg. Call to register, 703-771-0006 or www.experienceanahatayoga.com.
'Handwriting without Tears.' The Sterling Annex Community Center, 22084 Shaw Road, Sterling, offers classes for children ages 4-6 to help them focus on the beginning techniques for handwriting in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Call 703-430-6673.
Tiny Tots Classes for Twos. Katydid Inc. at Ashburn Ice House. Activities, songs, crafts for 2- to 3-year-olds and their parents. Weekly themes. Choose Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, at 9:30 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. Call 703-481-9444 or e-mail KTdidInc@aol.com.
English as a Second Language classes for adults are offered by Hogar Hispano of Catholic Charities in Falls Church, Reston and Sterling. Cost is $40 for seven weeks of classes. Call 703-534-9805 Ext. 222. Se habla espanol.
Free English as a Second Language courses will be held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30-9 p.m. ESL courses are located 22066 Circle Drive, Sterling, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
The Growing Stage Theatre Company. Classes and workshops for all ages. Visit www.growingstage.org, or call 540-338-5367.
The firm of Rachel L. Virk Attorney and Counselor at Law/Certified Mediator holds free monthly informational seminars on family law every second Saturday of the month, 9-11:30 a.m., 21135 Whitfield Place, Suite 207, Sterling. Learn about non-adversarial confidential dispute resolution and how to craft detailed solutions to remain in control or learn about rights to offset costly contested litigation. Call 703-444-3355. Visit www.virk-law.com.
A Better Way to Fitness LLC offers a new, total-body fitness program designed to get moms and dads fit and toddlers play. Dance 'N Play classes will be offered at Douglass Community Center Thursdays, at 9:30 a.m., classes will last
approximately 45 minutes and include cardio segments done to children's music with intervals of strength training, using resistance tubing and the environment. Register by contacting Douglass Community Center at 703-771-5913. Classes cost $10 per session and are charged on a monthly
basis.
Wacky Wednesdays, for children aged 3-6, at the Sterling Community Center, from 9:30 a.m.-noon. Includes crafts, sports, story time, yoga, and more. The cost of the program is $50 for four Wednesdays. To register, call the Sterling Community Center at 703-430-9480.
Wendy Lane, flutist, will offer a flute class for beginners at her Sterling music studio, Mondays, from 7-8 p.m. for the remainder of the summer. No charge. E-mail Blane4@verizon.net or 703-404-3103. Instruments may be provided by the teacher. Beginners only but other lessons are given privately.