The Lamb Center: 3220 Old Lee Highway Fairfax, VA: Refuge for the Homeless

Nimby. "Not in my backyard." That was my attitude, and the mentality that still permeates plenty of Fairfax City residents, with regards to the Lamb Center, that serves the local homeless population. This facility located at Fairfax Circle, has been helping in this area since 1992, and it is run by Executive Director John McPherson and Director of Operations Dave Laraby. The Lamb Center does have an oversight board, and it is 100% faith based, citizen donation operated, being a 501 C charity. Churches from the area partner with it, and as I was invited upon request to sit down with John and Dave briefly, I was able to observe some aspects of this center. It has sparked controversy in the city and elsewhere, as many of its guests are addicted to alcohol, drugs, mentally ill, or a combination of all.

Twice in the past month I have visited the Lamb Center, once unannounced, to get a better understanding of this place, and what it does. For those who have asked, it is a very clean place, even the showers that are constantly complained about, by one or more folks on Fairfax Underground, and other online venues where people discuss local issues. These showers are by no means going to be confused with the Marriott, but could best be described as "being like the ones you visit when camping at Lake Fairfax" or another park in the area. A walk around the area on both visits prior to going in showed no trash, beer bottles, drug paraphernalia, or anything else notable. There is a dumpster in front of the building, that sits next to where the old 7-11 used to. The sign simply reads "3220 Old Lee Highway", and on the door you will see that it is indeed the "Lamb Center."

I do believe on my second visit, and prior to my arrival, a sign was placed on the door. It reads "Drunk and disorderly patrons will be reported to the City of Fairfax Police." Whether this coincides with my announced visit, that's up for interpretation, or if there's been some action that I have not been made aware of yet or will discover. Sitting down with John and Dave was an interesting experience, as has been observing the activities, that take place here. Dave freely admitted to me, that he "became involved with the Lamb Center, after getting in trouble with the criminal justice system." This was a crime that involved international phone calling, and he was assigned duty at the Lamb Center, as part of paying his debt to society. He was not thrilled about it, and purposely just did laundry, to fulfill his assignment. Yet he told me, "something pulled at him." He felt as if "God told him he should be helping out those who are less fortunate," and he regularly volunteered, and is now in his current position. Dave leads regular prayer services, and while it is Christian based, all are welcome.

John McPherson was a distributor for the Washington Post. He now oversees the daily operation of the Lamb Center, and is interested in not only the faith aspects, but also would like to "see more businesses step up, with regards to hiring guests." John stated that he "is very appreciative to the local folks who donate food, including grocery stores and restaurants." However, John brought up one of the guests success stories, and he freely admitted that "many times there are multiple failures, prior to seeing some level of success." The view of the Lamb Center, is "to treat the person, and love them for who they are, regardless of their condition." He has guests that are mentally ill that view it as a refuge, where they can sit and do nothing if comfortable, or get involved with bible studies, see a nurse, get mental health services in conjunction with a partnership with social workers and others, or just get a shower and some hot food.

During our visit, I have to admit bias here, I was touched by the kindness of these two gentlemen, and by something John talked about. That was "about a guest who has a couple an hour week job, where he is doing menial tasks." According to John, "this guest's self esteem and overall happiness has increased, and from all accounts, he is doing a fine job helping out at this job." He says this guest has shown more willingness to be involved with empowerment programs, and its been a complete change of attitude, since this individual was hired. John's main goal, is in addition to running the operation of the Lamb Center, to find employers willing to hire guests even for just a couple of hours if they can. If there are any Fairfax City or local companies who want workers, no matter the task, it was his "impassioned plea" to find someone who's "willing to give one of our guests a chance to do something productive."

John then proceeded on a tour of the facility. Out back, there is a porch with benches, and a door that can be used in case of an emergency. (Fire Code compliant) Inside is a place where volunteers do laundry for the guests, greet them at the door, and tables for prayer services. There are crosses on the walls, Bibles readily available, along with other literature. Food is served daily, as is water, and other liquids to keep guests hydrated. John stated that they average "100 guests per day," as we walked to the shower area, and then also to the pantry, where supplies are kept. During my visit, there were about fifty guests there, and it was a diverse crowd, although mostly white men in their late 40's. Many of them do smoke cigarettes out front, but the atmosphere inside was respectful.

If needed, John stated "they do have a ban policy, and an excellent relationship with the Fairfax City Police." The police can issue trespass notices to the guests, if they become unruly, and the Lamb Center also can ban guests on a case by case basis." This can last from a few hours to longer. Its up for that guest, to agree to meet with the staff member that they offended, and resolve the problem. Often a third party(neutral) is called in, to mitigate this, and the Lamb Center continues to work with them, even if they fail again and again. The patience of the staff is no doubt called in to question, as they've sometimes put up a family in a motel temporarily if released from a hospital late at night, and they do have a AA chapter on site.

John and Dave both said "the Lamb Center changes you." I have to admit bias here, as I did in fact notice that I was impressed, that they deal with a vulnerable and unpredictable population, with love and compassion that so many of us would not have the heart to do, on a daily basis. Yet they do just that, and there will be more articles about this facility. I do still have some concerns, such as residential areas, businesses being affected, but there are 2,000 some homeless folks in Fairfax County. (best estimate) They are our neighbors, somewhere and someplace, and often according to the staff here "come from broken families, and then added on top of this is self medicating pain with booze and drugs." I am thankful for both of the visits, and for more information from the Lamb Center itself visit it, or check out their website at http://www.thelambcenter.org/.

Epilepsy Awareness Day: May 27 2012 Hillsborough Vineyards

Epilepsy is a condition that affects so many. Over 4% of people worldwide contend with it on a regular basis. Our friends, our neighbors, loved ones, people we know, and others we have yet to meet. Wines. That UB 40 song "Red Red Wine" was so popular, and over the past few years, Virginia has been ramping it up with regards to, establishing wines that are on par with California domestically, or Australia and France on an international basis. Hillsborough Vineyards is the best of Virginia, at least in my opinion, and I've greatly enjoyed their wine. Yet what makes me appreciate them at their point of production in Purcellville, VA, is the Baki family. Their love of not only their products, but also of the people that visit their location daily, is what left me thrilled.

http://www.hillsboroughwine.com/. Go there and look at the site. I am inspired by people with epilepsy every single day, as they keep me going, and remind me of the very definition of resilience. They don't give up. Regardless of what causes their epilepsy, whether it being a person was born with it, there's another medical condition causing it, an accident, or unknown, its a serious concern. It is now a major one with soldiers and Traumatic Brain Injury(TBI), along with all of us, who are just one step away from having a seizure. That's right, one in ten of us are going to have a seizure. For all of the jokes about being hit by lightning, there's a very good chance you are going to personally experience this in your lifetime.

That's not meant to frighten, but rather to enlighten. Abnormal electrical activity to the pain, is quite common, and epilepsy awareness is beyond important. It was an honor to walk with those who have epilepsy at the National Epilepsy Walk in Washington D.C. a little over a month ago. The Epilepsy Foundation of America is working hard to find that cure, as are the folks at the National Institutes of Health, where only 1/2 of 1% of U.S. medical research goes towards this condition. Let's crank that needle up a bit, by continuing to support the Epilepsy Foundation, and those who have epilepsy, true warriors they are, by attending Epilepsy Awareness Day at Hillsbourough Vineyards on May 27th 2012. Its a beautiful location, the family will introduce you on a host of wines, and they are so generous, so truly kind to have this day and help out so many. The Baki family's hearts are all in the right place, as is their dedication to making Virginia the home of wines that you must discover.

Come on down May 27 2012 from 11 am-almost 5 pm. There's a facebook wall for this winery, and some of us have thanked them. I hope more shall, as they are truly phenomenal folks at this beautiful vineyard, that's located close to D.C., yet seems so far away from that asphalt zone. Its a serene, peaceful place. Many of us have lost a child to seizures. I have and miss my son Tommy everyday. In honor of these children, and adults that have gone to God far too early, let's do our part. Drink some wine, bring your family to Epilepsy Awareness Day, and help out a cause that is approved and supported by the Epilepsy Foundation of America. Not only will you be drinking a glass of wine, but you will meet true champions, families that contend with epilepsy, and yet refuse to yield, but rather stand up and fight with true love and passion, that cannot be measured by anything known to mankind.

Crystal City 5 K : My First Not Forced Run in Over 18 Years

What do you think of when you hear the part of Arlington, VA known as "Crystal City?" Is it National-Reagan Airport, lots of hotels, the Crystal City Restaurant with "strippers" required to wear g-strings and tassels by stupid Virginia blue laws, or taking a run through this business district? Years of weight gain, becoming bald, and not taking care of myself caused me to have a 235-60-16 spare tire, along with high blood pressure. My food choices included, "Here, have a heart attack, or here, have a stroke." Although I do miss fried chicken, huge cheeseburgers, and ice cream, the sodas are now a compromise that I can live without. Thank you water, orange juice, and beer. Can I have stock in the Chobani company yet? This greek yogurt is like crack, for those of us, who choose to lose weight and also eat healthier. They are delicious, and the raspberry and lemon are top notch.

April 13th 2012 marked my long await return to the running circuit. Now weighing in at over 200 lbs, I was not to be confused with my lean, string bean body, that I had in high school. There I was on the cross country and track teams, and did not require an angry rottweiler to keep me moving. Those were the days, and I'm still pissed at the 18-20 years olds, that run 15 minute 5k's by the way. Just saying, with age and genetics, its amazing what can be accomplished. Bastards. Anyhow, the Crystal City 5 K is an event sponsored by Pacers Running Stores, that have several locations in the D.C. area. I am thankful for them being a part of the "return to flight" or "return to making the pavement scream," as I've now been running almost everyday since Jan 23rd when I purchased shoes from them. As a victim of two knee surgeries, they were able to help me find the right pair, so that they wouldn't buckle or swell up after the race.

It was a joy to be joined by friends for this event, including two wonderful ladies who ran in it, and a bear who drinks beer. The online registration was easy, and I brought my bald ass to the location on 21st Street, by using the Metro. Before going though, I had my "power meal," of lamb meat with cheese and broccoli. My "gas mileage" was excellent, although there were a few issues in the race. First of all, again I am pissed at the young bucks who are able to run like that. Did I mention that before? :). Second of all, there were a few minor glitches. For instance, the volunteers who were AWESOME, had a couple of oopsies. This would be not having the mileage markers up, which led to pain that I have not felt before. At the time I was angry, but now I'm laughing, and am thankful for this.

The fact that these were not up, along with no timers on the race, made it that much more difficult. At the start of the race, I immediately felt the competitive juices flowing, and made a break for it right away. This was a huge mistake. In a way, it was a lot like buck fever in hunting season, and I quickly realized how old and out of shape I am. The first mile was probably the fastest I've ever run, at least since I was a young man, but this led to strain and pain in the second and third mile. Yeah, I'm a wuss. Marathoners are running reading this right now on their Garmin gadgets going "What a wimp!" They are right, although I am forever indebted to a kind gentleman who let me know I only had 2/10ths of a mile to go. I gave it all I had left, as the tank was running on E, and saw the clock flash 26:22 as I jumped up to hit the Finish sign.

It was a surreal experience. Running has now become a passion, just like skiing the slopes at various resorts in the winter time. This past week I ran 6 miles, and just entered another 5k scheduled for this weekend. I plan on being there, bald, and with my red Nike shoes. This company has a long history of helping people with injuries, get back on the road, and I am thankful to them. There's no doubt my legs will scream, my lungs will be pushed, and the cardio part will not be simple. Yet I shall finish the race, and am hoping that perhaps there will be smaller dogs this time to keep up the pace. For those who want to get into D.C. area running events, links shall soon be provided, as soon as I figure out how to place them here. That should be somewhere around the year 2015, and as this pic shows, it says "I'm done!" From Full Metal Jacket, "Let me see your war face!"

Diary of an Angry Bald Man: Get Ready!

Diary of an Angry Bald Man. Yep, I am of course, coming close with its title to a book and movie called "Diary of an Angry Black Woman," which was a commercial success. I doubt that's coming this way, and if that company has an issue with this blog title, I am worth about fifty cents and would love the publicity. Anyhow, am I angry? Sometimes, just like my fellow human beings. Yet for the most part I'm just a chilling bald dude, who's experienced some things, that many of us on this great adventure of life have. Just like everyone else, I've gone through a whole host of things, joy and pain, but do have a zest for adventure and living life to the fullest. Also, I don't believe its always good to have a filter, but rather to "tell it like it is," because for too long, it seems we have all been guilty of holding back. Is that lying? Nope, but it less than truthful.

I'd like to thank God, the United States of America and its kick ass military, along with family and friends who've been a part of the journey, directly or indirectly. Its been an amazing ride, and I hope that with divine Providence, to be able to live until 100 years old. That's not up to me, but I have just been so humbled, so inspired, and so thrilled by my fellow human beings and what they are able to accomplish. You will find God and love in the most unlikely of places, and a lot of this, involves the search for the truth, and also being willing to go to areas you would have never thought of. It also means you have to be accountable. Not only to yourself but to others, that when you are wrong, you apologize and mean it if that is the case. It doesn't make you less of a man or woman, rather we are all imperfect, and just like everyone else, all of us do make mistakes except me :).

This is just the first post. What should you expect? First of all honesty. Humor. A perhaps twisted warped sense of humor. Controversy. No subject is untouchable, not one. Send ideas and they will be followed up on. There are plenty of blogs on the web, and this is just one. I have no idea of what lies ahead, but I promise you that it will be from the heart from a simple guy, who's blessed to have a loving family, and great friends and people who have supported me more often than I've truly deserved. Send ideas, send ideas, send ideas! This is your blog. I'm just a bald guy who will write it, and often I'd like to bring in others to write posts. If you would like to pay for this honor, or are a centerfold from Playboy, of course you will be bumped up in importance :). There's going to be "Boob-O-Meter, and " Testosterone Testing Device" applications put in soon, and here's a basic idea of what the blog is going to cover, unless you send ideas.

Running. Boobs. Religion. Boobs. Skiing. Boobs. Wilford Brimley. Boobs. Al Pacino classic lines. Boobs. Dining. Boobs. Hunting. Boobs. Fishing. Boobs. Deliverance. Boobs. Hiking. Boobs. Biking. Boobs. Books. Boobs. Politicians-federal, state, local. Boobs. Dictators overseas. Boobs. Politics. Boobs. The United Nations. Boobs. History. Boobs. Music. Boobs. Local events. Boobs. Charity Drives and Good causes. Boobs. Adventures in life. Boobs. Controversial issues. Boobs. Pop culture. Boobs. And from this Boob, there will be much indeed about that subject, that just seems to be a near obsession, as boobs come in various forms, most of which are good. Anyhow, this is just the start of a new project. There are going to be some boobs, I mean bumps to get it running, but thanks to Julie and others who inspired this effort, and it should involve various forms of technology, such as video and pictures. And boobs! :)

Mike Ross