Thursday, May 30
Editorial: Don’t Be Among the Missing
Last time Virginia elected a governor, 1.7 million voters failed to vote after voting the previous year.
In 2008, 74.5 percent of Virginia’s registered voters turned out to vote in the presidential election. In 2009, the last time Virginians elected a governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and members of the House of Delegates, just 40.4 percent of registered voters came out to vote.
Wednesday, May 29
Classified Advertising May 29, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Summer Fun in Fairfax
The Herndon Festival, Relay for Life and Springfield Days/Party in the Park are only a few of the events taking place in the summer of 2013.
Lynbrook Elementary First to Fly Air Quality Flags
Lynbrook Elementary School, in partnership with TrailsforYouth.Org, is raising special, colored flags every morning to help teachers, students and members of the community be aware of daily air quality conditions. The effort is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s School Flag Program. Lynnbrook is the first public school in Fairfax County to start a new flag program to identify air quality pollution days to help students and the community to stay healthy.
The Gift of Dance
Girl Scout Nicole Frazzini launches Project D.A.N.C.E. and helps girls build self-esteem.
Nicole Frazzini discovered the joy of expression through dancing at an early age. By the time she was 5 years old, the South County High School junior was already a competitive dancer.
Workhouse Promises Fireworks, Free Concerts, Artistic Programs
Since opening in 2008 as the Workhouse Arts Center, the staff within the stately red bricks of what was originally a Progressive Era prison has worked to develop the site as a central fixture of the Lorton community.
South County’s ‘Music Man’ Wows Audiences
Colorful costumes, stunning vocals and intricate comedic timing were just a few key elements of the South County High School Theatre’s production of “The Music Man,” which packed the Dale S. Rumberger Auditorium May 3-4 and 10-11.
New Citizens Welcomed at Gunston Hall Ceremony
First Regent of Gunston Hall Wylie Raab welcomed 51 new US citizens in the special citizenship ceremony held at George Mason’s home. The new citizens represent 28 countries from four of the five continents.
Fundraiser Planned for Animal Shelter
Wine-tasting event slated for June 9.
Each year, the nonprofit Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FFCAS) raises money to pay for things the shelter can’t afford. And in June, it holds a wine tasting and invites the public to participate.
Sundog Productions Expands in Fairfax
Sundog hosts grand opening of new 40,000-square-foot facility on June 1.
Sundog Productions, which has been creating custom tie-dye and screen-printed “wearable art” for more than 20 years in the City of Fairfax, announced Tuesday, May 28, the grand opening of its new 40,000-square-foot facility on Saturday, June 1, 2013, 11 a.m. at 3850 Jermantown Road.
Brief: 2013 Fairfax Library Foundation Scholarships Awarded
Nine individuals chosen to receive scholarships.
From a pool of many qualified applicants, Fairfax Library Foundation has selected nine individuals to aid financially in their educational pursuits. Fairfax Library Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholarship winners are Matthew Albert Beer, Thien Mai, Katherine C. Pietras, Ingrid Thais Quiroz, Claudia Rojas and Laura Ung, receiving awards of $1,000 each. These awardees are in the midst of pursuing or will begin pursuing undergraduate degrees as of fall, 2013.
Wild Night of Romantic Love
Fairfax High’s production of “Hello, Dolly!”
Ostentatious handmade hats, slap-on-the-knee antics and a fast-talking matchmaker all made for a wild night of romantic love and unexpected surprises in Fairfax High School’s production of “Hello, Dolly.”
A Time of Remembrance
Memorial Day ceremony held at Ox Hill Battlefield Park.
The Battle of Ox Hill was fought Sept. 1, 1862 in a torrential thunderstorm. When it ended, two key Union generals were dead and more than 1,500 soldiers had been killed or wounded.
The Battle of Ox Hill
The Battle of Ox Hill, the Confederate name for what the Union Army called the Battle of Chantilly, took place on the afternoon of Sept. 1, 1862. The fighting occurred during a fierce storm that field reports described as so thunderous it drowned out the cries and clamor of the battle.
Brief: Science Program Allows Hands-on Experience
Local students travel to Geneva to learn about particle physics.
Seniors Daniel Rice of Chantilly and Jonathan Young of Vienna spent a week analyzing particle physics data from the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment at the Large Hedron Collider (LHC) in Geneva, Switzerland.
Column: Airing on the Side of Caution
I don’t think I’m asking too much. I’m not asking for a pony or long life; just a typical life. Unfortunately “typical” might be more statistical than realistic – at least for someone with an incurable disease, which was how my oncologist originally described my lung cancer diagnosis.
Fun Ways To Keep Learning in Summer
As summer vacation begins in a few weeks, some parents are scrambling for activities to fill the days for their children. Often that means summer vacations and trips to the pool or the park. Education experts say even in the midst of summer fun, it is important to ensure that children don’t lose the skills they’ve learned during the academic year. However, they say relaxing and having fun are equally important, and suggest a myriad of stealthy tricks that parents can employ for laid-back learning all summer long.
Being a Warrior, Now and Then
Q&A with Lt. Col. Gulakowski: Reflections on Vietnam legacy.
Lt. Col. Denis Gulakowski of Burke is a retired Army officer who served more than 25 years. From November 1971 until November 1972, he did a tour of duty in Vietnam. While in Vietnam, he participated in several battles, one of which disrupted the North Vietnamese attempt to overrun areas of South Vietnam during the Easter Offensive (Nguyen Hue Campaign) of 1972.
Robinson Student Receives Scholarship
Maritza Villarroel honored by Hispanic Leadership Alliance.
Just 18, Robinson Secondary senior Maritza Villarroel plans to go to college and someday become a nurse. And thanks to a scholarship from the Hispanic Leadership Alliance (HLA), she’ll soon start her journey.
Unconventional Camp Ideas
Suggestions for parents still searching for summer activities
Lauralie Kennedy has been knee-deep in frantic online searches. School ends next month and the Alexandria mother has yet to enroll her 6-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter in summer camp. “I just haven’t put together a plan yet,” she said. “I have a spread sheet with all of the things I’d like for them to do, but I haven’t done anything with it. I am hoping that there will be slots open somewhere.”
100 New Citizens Sworn In
Congressman Connolly, Chairman Bulova, Delegate Keam participate in naturalization ceremony in Fairfax.
The new citizens, accompanied by many family members, filled the Government Center's auditorium for the naturalization ceremony held by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Congressman Connolly, Chairman Bulova and Delegate Keam addressed the group, each describing in their words what it meant to be an American.
Brief:Amazon Web Services to Expand in Fairfax County
Company will add 500 IT-focused jobs.
Governor Bob McDonnell announced last week that Amazon Web Services, Inc., (AWS), an Amazon.com company, will expand in Fairfax County and add 500 new jobs to the county economy.
Brief: Amazon Web Services to Expand in Fairfax County
Company will add 500 IT-focused jobs.
Governor Bob McDonnell announced last week that Amazon Web Services, Inc., (AWS), an Amazon.com company, will expand in Fairfax County and add 500 new jobs to the county economy.
Tuesday, May 28
Local Student to Receive Statewide Award
A Floris fifth-grader honored for excellence in math.
A Floris Elementary School fifth-grader has been selected as the Virginia recipient of the Nicholas Green Distinguished Student Award by the National Association of Gifted Children.
Celebrating Partnerships
Fairfax County, FCPS honor 12 public-private partners during awards ceremony.
He envisioned a service project, contacted Fairfax County Public Library staff to gauge interest, and put the wheels in motion to create a program where older students offer tutoring to younger students in communities where there is a significant need.
Monday, May 27
Fairfax Welcomes Patriots
The 15th Ride of the Patriots brings an estimated 4,000 bikers to the City of Fairfax.
The 15th Ride of the Patriots brought an estimated 4,000 bikers to the City of Fairfax on May 26, to ride together to Rolling Thunder at the Pentagon in Arlington. The event honors America’s veterans, servicemen and women, and raises awareness of American POW and MIA soldiers of all wars. The event is sponsored by Patriot Harley-Davidson and the Fairfax VA Chapter, Harley Owners Group.
Thursday, May 23
Editorial: Remembering on Memorial Day
The sacrifices of those who died in war.
1st Lt. Robert J. Hess, 26, of the Kings Park West neighborhood of Fairfax, was killed by enemy fire on April 23, 2013 in Pul-E-Alam, Afghanistan. Hess was known as “RJ” and graduated from Robinson Secondary School in 2005, where he played football, lacrosse and was the captain of the swim team. He was a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter pilot who deployed to Afghanistan on April 11, 2013. His family remembers his sense of humor and his natural leadership ability.
Tea Party Ticket
Republican convention selects conservative slate of candidates for November.
Perhaps the biggest sign that the Tea Party has taken control of the Republican Party of Virginia was the yellow Gadsden flag emblem that appeared on placards distributed by supporters of Jeannemarie Devolites Davis, who was one of seven candidates vying to be the nominee for lieutenant governor last weekend at a raucous convention in Richmond. Davis, who represented Fairfax County for a decade in the General Assembly, has a reputation as being a moderate.
Wednesday, May 22
Katherine Hanley Shelter Hosts Open House
Shelter houses more than 20 families at a time.
Shelter House, a Herndon-based nonprofit that operates two homeless shelters in Fairfax County, as well as a domestic abuse shelter, hosted an open house at their Katherine K. Hanley Family Shelter in Fairfax Tuesday, May 14.
Brief: Amazon Web Services to Expand in Fairfax County
Company will add 500 IT-focused jobs
Governor Bob McDonnell announced that Amazon Web Services, Inc., (AWS), an Amazon.com company, will expand in Fairfax County and add 500 new jobs to the county economy.
Springfield Joins Bike to Work Day
Self-powered commuters enjoyed bike service, snacks and a chance to give feedback.
Though the Metro Park pit stop for Bike to Work Day 2013 didn’t technically open until 6:30 a.m. on Friday, May 17, the first biker showed up at 6:15, according to stop Manager Nancy-jo Manney.
Week in Fairfax
Final Parkway Paving Underway and Fairfax Farmers Market Is Open
Brief: VDOT Announces New Northern Virginia Leadership
The Virginia Department of Transportation named Helen L. Cuervo P.E. district administrator for VDOT’s Northern Virginia District, and Renée N. Hamilton deputy district administrator.
Brief: Chic Envy Hosts Military Spouse Appreciation Event
Upscale consignment boutique Chic Envy and the National Military Spouse Network (NMSN), a networking, mentoring and professional development organization committed to empowering military spouses, teamed up to host the third annual military spouse appreciation event on Monday, May 6.
Brief: 30 GMU Students, Faculty Rally Over Keystone XL Pipeline
Over 30 students leaders, faculty and Virginians rallied Friday, May 17, at a press conference in advance of Sen. Mark Warner’s commencement address Saturday to tell the Senator that they oppose the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline.
Bringing to Life ‘Is He Dead?’
Providence Players present recently unearthed Mark Twain comedy.
It is rare that a play written by one of America's iconic writers is found and produced a century after it was written. But the Providence Players are bringing to life "Is He Dead?" written by Mark Twain in 1898 and first published in print in 2003.
Brief: Tiny Dancers Offer Themed Week-long Camps
There’s something big afoot at Tiny Dancers this summer as they offer their award-winning program of themed, week-long camps.
Brief: GMU President Named Honorary Member of Rotary Club of Fairfax
The Rotary Club of Fairfax inducted Dr. Angel Cabrera, the newly-inaugurated president of George Mason University, as an honorary member on April 29. According to Laura Hills, the club’s president, “It is our tradition to make the George Mason University president an honorary member of our club. We were thrilled to bestow this honor upon Dr. Cabrera.”
Three Musicals Garner Cappies Nods
Fairfax, Woodson, Paul VI are all recognized.
When the winners are announced during the 14th annual Cappies Gala, June 9, at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., students from Fairfax, Woodson and Paul VI high schools will be there, eager for the results. That’s because each school was nominated for awards for their musicals.
Brief: Local Students Receive the Allstate Foundation Achievement Award
Fairfax High School student Drew Bonner, and Patrick O’Connor from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, were chosen as two of 10 students across the state to receive an academic scholarship from The Allstate Foundation and the Virginia High School League (VHSL).
We Are Family
Community celebrates foster families during annual 5K walk at Lake Accotink.
They walked, ran or rode trikes, all in celebration of foster families at Lake Accotink Park on Saturday, May 18.
Brief: Nereids Synchronized Swimmers Place at Regionals
The Northern Virginia Nereids synchronized swimming team qualified for the Age Group National Synchronized Swimming competition after a successful showing at the South Zone Region A Regional Competition in Washington, D.C. the weekend of May 3-5.
Letter: Failing Grades on Air Pollution
Republican members of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works put corporate polluters ahead of our health by boycotting the nomination of Gina McCarthy to head the Environmental Protection Agency. Each day this vote is delayed, health risks increase for millions of Virginians.
Brief: Eight FCPS Students Honored for Writing
Eight Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students have received certificates for superior writing in the 2013 Achievement Awards in Writing by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).
Brief: Homestretch Hosts Benefit Breakfast
The event helps raise more than $100,000.
Homestretch hosted its annual benefit breakfast on Wednesday, May 15, and raised over $100,000 for its program and services.
It’s on to The Kennedy Center
Robinson’s musical, “Hairspray,” nominated for eight Cappies.
Each year, the Cappies program honors the best in high-school theater, and Robinson Secondary’s high-octane musical, “Hairspray,” has been nominated for eight awards.
Tuesday, May 21
South County Baseball Wins Patriot District Championship
Stallions beat defending state champion Lake Braddock.
South County will host Robinson in the first round of the Northern Region baseball tournament. Lake Braddock will host Chantilly.
Friday, May 17
Classified Advertising May 22, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Fairfax Home Sales: April, 2013
In April 2013, 95 Fairfax homes sold between $1,575,000-$135,200.
Fairfax Home Sales: April, 2013
Thursday, May 16
Fairfax County Attracts Innovative Technology Firms
More than 1,400 jobs added to local economy in first quarter.
Continuing consumer demand for innovative technology such as web filtering, data security and cloud computing has helped Fairfax County post gains to the local economy, countering the sequester effect stalling business growth in other sectors. According to the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA), 27 businesses added more than 1,400 jobs in Fairfax County during the first quarter of 2013.
Brief: School Board Requests Bond Referendum on November Ballot
The Fairfax County School Board has approved a resolution to request that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors place a school bond referendum for $250,000,000 on the ballot for the November 2013 general election.
Editorial: Vote in Spite of Election Fatigue
Primary voting, absentee voting, Republican convention.
Absentee voting, including “in-person” absentee voting, is already underway for the June 11 primary, a statewide Democratic party primary for lieutenant governor and attorney general, plus one delegate race in Northern Virginia. Voters in the Democratic primary will choose between Ralph S. Northam and Aneesh Chopra for lieutenant governor; and between Mark R. Herring and Justin E. Fairfax for attorney general.
Celebrating ‘Everyday’ Heroes
Molina Healthcare honors local residents for making a difference in the community.
In the 1980s, Vienna resident John Horejsi and a “ragtag” group of social justice pioneers learned that Virginia was charging sales tax on food stamps. They discovered the sales tax boosted the state’s coffers by $9.5 million every year, money that they believed belonged to poor families for food or other necessary items.
Brief: Area Roundups
House Fire Under Investigation
A fire last Friday, May 10, at a Fairfax Station home caused an estimated $100,000 in damage, including to two vehicles inside the garage. According to fire investigators, the blaze started in the garage and is under investigation.
Program Keeps Students ‘Jazzed’
The students packed into Halley Elementary School’s cafeteria were loud, unruly and boisterous. But then so were the teachers, parents and volunteers cheering them on. This display of school-approved rowdiness was a celebration of the success of an innovative after-school program that targeted at-risk and underprivileged students, courtesy of the Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC).
Honoring Movement for Women’s Rights
Lynne Garvey-Hodge of Clifton presents a program about the life and work of the suffragist Mrs. Robert Walker.
“Mr. president, how long must women wait for liberty?” was the cry of American suffragists in the early 20th century as they campaigned for votes for women. It was echoed by historic re-enactor Lynne Garvey-Hodge of Clifton, as she presented a program about the life and work of the suffragist Mrs. Robert Walker at the May meeting of the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Brief: Girl Scout Earns Gold Award With Theatre Workshop
On Monday, April 22, Allison Belkowitz organized a theatre workshop at South County Middle School as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award.
Brief: Week in Fairfax
Man Assaulted and Robbed, New Balance to Open New Store in Mosaic, Cycle Fest Ride on Sunday, May 19 and other local news.
Brief: Paul VI Ensembles Take Top Mark at Busch Gardens
Paul VI Catholic High School’s Choral Ensemble, Concert Band and String Ensemble participated in the Fiesta-Val Adjudication at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, on April 27.
Classified Advertising May 15, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Local Models in Down Syndrome Foundation Gala
Event raises more than $400,000.
Twenty-five models with Down syndrome rocked the runway at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation “Be Beautiful, Be Yourself” Gala on Wednesday, May 8, at the Ritz Carlton in D.C. The fashion show and fundraiser is designed to raise awareness about Down syndrome, one of the most frequent chromosomal conditions affecting an estimated 400,000 Americans.
Fairfax Academy Dance Program Presents Spring Concert
The Fairfax Academy Dance program will present its spring concert—Red, White and DANCE!—on Friday, May 17, and Saturday, May 18, at 7:30 p.m. in the Fairfax High School auditorium. Fairfax Academy is one of six high school academies in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS).
Brief: School Board OKs Boundary Changes
Move relieves overcrowding at Lanier and Fairfax.
The Fairfax County School Board voted last Thursday night, May 9, to approve adjustments to school attendance areas in an effort to alleviate overcrowding at Fairfax High and Lanier Middle School.
Brief: Bike to Work Day Is May 17
n Friday, May 17, the City of Fairfax will host Bike To Work Day at a new location at Main Street Marketplace and near its extensive trail network. The pit stop is being sponsored by the Fairfax Mason to Metro Task Group, a collaboration of city and county officials and residents, and George Mason University representatives that is working to improve bicycle connections between George Mason University and the Fairfax-Vienna-GMU Metro Station.
Telford Receives Weinberg Triumph of Spirit Award
The annual Race for Hope in Washington, D.C., raises money for brain tumor research and, for 10 years now, the Rabbi Joseph P. Weinberg Triumph of Spirit Award has been given at that event to a deserving recipient.
Music, Food, Entertainment and Fun
Israel Street Festival this Sunday at Fairfax Corner.
The Fairfax Corner shopping center is the place to be this Sunday, May 19, from noon-5 p.m., when the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia holds its 2013 Israel Street Festival. Music, food, children’s activities and a martial-arts demonstration are among the highlights.
BIG Fun Ride
Tall, short, stocky, thin, disabled or not, children love to play—and that’s the premise behind Chessie’s BIG Backyard in Lee District Park in Alexandria. It’s a family recreation area that opened last summer and is fully accessible.
Key Middle Officer Honored
Rudy Coffield is the FCPS 2013 Distinguished School Resource Officer.
n full policeman’s regalia—bus driver hat and all—Master Police Officer (MPO) Rudy Coffield is an imposing figure. The meticulously assembled uniform commands respect: His gleaming badge, crackling radio and holstered firearm immediately convey an unwavering attention to detail, rule, law and purpose.
Fairfax County a ‘Trailblazer’ in Using Social Media
Sign up for Technology Town Hall on June 1.
The digital and information revolutions have changed nearly every aspect of our lives. With the increasing popularity of smartphones, tablet computers and laptops, many Americans are connected to the Internet almost constantly. This rapidly increasing ubiquity of the Internet has helped people connect across geographic and cultural barriers.
Quick Takes
Q&A with Pastor King Rhodes.
Pastor King Rhodes is founder and senior pastor of His Church International Christian Center (HCICC) in Springfield, and has been involved in Christian ministry and community outreach for more than 20 years. As a longtime advocate for foster youth, Rhodes and his ministry help support the mission of Fairfax Families4Kids, a foster-mentoring program for teens in Fairfax County. On Saturday, May 18, Rhodes’ church will sponsor the organization’s 5-K Walk during Foster Care Appreciation Month.
‘Day Prom’ Celebrated
Eight high schools participate in daytime prom for special needs students.
Prom is pretty intimidating as it is: date, hair, dress, food, limo, flowers, dancing... gasp. But the annual event is also a privilege, a rite of high school passage that bonds students through shared experience for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, many students with special needs will never share that experience with their peers. Their physical or intellectual disabilities can make participating in such a large and emotional gathering overwhelming, uncomfortable, and in some cases, simply impossible.
Ride of the Patriots
It's time for the annual Ride of the Patriots, a Memorial Day tradition in the City of Fairfax.
Odds are, residents of the City of Fairfax will hear them before they can see them. Each year, more than 4,000 motorcyclists descend on the city, gathering at Patriot Harley Davidson from across the country, coming together to share stories, compare notes from the road and honor those who have served the country.
Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy Places in National Competition
The past couple months have been an eventful time for Virginia Christian schools as they worked hard to prepare for the regional and state Old Dominion Association of Church Schools (ODACS) and the national American Association of Christian Schools (AACS) competitions of 2013. Twenty-eight students from Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy were able to participate in these competitions all the way to the national level.
Robinson Boys’ Lax Finishes Concorde Runner-up
Rams bounce back with regional win over Lake Braddock.
The Robinson boys' lacrosse team will face McLean at 7 p.m. on Thursday.
Monday, May 13
Roundups
News roundups and information regarding events in Fairfax County, Virginia.
Laurel Hill Golf Club To Host National Tournament
U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship coming to Lorton.
Laurel Hill Golf Club in Lorton will host a national golf tournament this summer — the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship. The U.S. Golf Association will stage the tournament July 15–20. More than 3,000 players will attempt to qualify for the championship at 71 different locations throughout the country in June.
Candle Causes Fire at Clifton Home
Fairfax County fire officials say a house fire, early Sunday morning, caused an estimated $150,000 damage to a Clifton home. The incident occurred May 5, around 12:45 a.m., at 5597 Cavalier Woods Lane.
Reflecting On Mother's Day
Letters to the Editor
As a Muslim woman and a mother of two young children, one of the things I have always appreciated about my faith is the high status and great honor that women are given in Islam, particularly mothers.
Hollander, Czarniak Engaged
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hollander of Clifton, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Aimee Michelle Hollander, to Andrew Joseph Czarniak.
Celebrating Chantilly Day
Clifton Caboose Twilight 5K is May 18.
Runners don’t have to get up early to compete in the Town of Clifton’s annual 5K race. They can sleep in, enjoy their afternoon and then head to town for the 15th annual Clifton Caboose Twilight Run.
Friday, May 10
Thursday, May 9
Editorial: Some Limits, More Disclosure
Virginia does not benefit from elected officials being awash in cash donations and gifts.
Virginia got a failing grade for vulnerability to corruption. Corruption in the commonwealth is probably not any more rampant than voter fraud, as we said last year. But in terms of practices that could undermine trust, Virginia has vast room for improvement.
Special Olympics Athletes Compete, Students Volunteer at George Mason Swim Meet
More than 130 swimmers, parents and friends of the Potomac Marlins USA Swimming year-round swim team volunteered April 28 to host the Northern Virginia Special Olympics Swim Meet held at George Mason. They came from all over the county for the Marlins' 17th year hosting this meet which brings together athletes throughout the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Young Artist Competition Winner Plays With City of Fairfax Band
Andrea Hsu is a soloist in the "Spotlight on the Pops" concert.
Andrea Hsu has a deep love of music and enjoys sharing that love with others. “Playing for others gives me a rush because I love knowing that the music you help bring to life could really have an effect on someone,” she says.
Week in Fairfax
City of Fairfax police, in conjunction with the Optimist Club of Fairfax, will be offering Safe Assured identification kits for children on Saturday, May 11, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at police headquarters at 3730 Old Lee Highway.
Fairfax Author Launches New Book
Fictional love story of teenage girl persecuted for faith during Lebanese Civil War.
Local author Nada Jabbour Hatem, a longtime Fairfax County resident, will be signing copies of her newly-released novel “Whom My Soul Loveth” on Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Family Christian store located at 45591 Dulles Eastern Plaza, Sterling, Va., 20166.
Eating Chicken for a Good Cause
The Chantilly Chick-Fil-A held a fundraiser last Thursday, May 2, for Team BT, spearheaded by Fair Lakes resident BethAnn Telford. The organization raises money for the National Brain Tumor Society and Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure.
Police Charge Local Man With Burglary
Fairfax County police have charged a Fairfax man with burglary and destruction of property. He is Monte Tobias Moyer, 27, of Aristotle Drive. Police responded to a home in the 11300 block of Aristotle Drive on Tuesday, April 30, shortly before 9 a.m., for a report of a break-in there.
Through the Looking Glass
Northern Virginia Players presents “Alice in Wonderland, Jr.”
Beginning May 17, the Northern Virginia Players will perform Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland, Jr.” Join Alice's madcap adventures in Wonderland as she chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game.
Opinion: The Power of Tourism
From May 4 through 12, we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week—a time when we applaud the impact our multi-faceted industry has on our community, the commonwealth and the nation.
Exploring Nursing
Springfield school provides everything a person needs to start a medical field career.
Offering a two-year Virginia State Board of Nursing accredited Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) course, The Fairfax County School of Practical Nursing provides everything a person needs to begin a career in the medical field.
Letter: Bookfair in Support of School
On Friday, May 17, the Barnes & Noble at Fair Lakes will host a book fair to raise funds for the Mountain View High School Scholarship Foundation. From 5-9 p.m., families can enjoy face painting, storytelling, bookmark making, musical performances and an art display while purchasing books for graduations, birthdays or personal enjoyment.
Lost Sheep, Looking for Bo Peep?
Fairfax County teachers are used to shepherding their students though many challenges during the school year, so perhaps it wasn’t too much of a stretch for Lees Corner fourth grade teacher Katie Talbot to come to the aid of some lost sheep in her Virginia Run neighborhood on April 13.
Clifton Homeowners Welcome Visitors
It’s time for the 41st annual Spring Homes Tour.
An English garden, 18th-century furnishings and a pool with waterfalls are among the delights awaiting all those attending the 41st annual Clifton Spring Homes Tour. It’s slated for Thursday, May 16, from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., and the fun includes a marketplace and silent auction at the Paradise Springs Winery.
Discussing ‘Saturday Night in the Suburbs’
Lake Braddock seniors discuss sex, drugs and social media.
What really happens in the suburbs on Saturday nights? At an open forum at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Wednesday, May 1, community parents had the opportunity to have their fears and concerns over this question confirmed, assuaged, and in some cases, postponed. Special guests for the night were five high school seniors who had volunteered to discuss a range of topics—including illegal alcohol and marijuana use, depression and social media use—and field cross-examination from concerned parents.
Wednesday, May 8
Classified Advertising May 8, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Woodson Girls' Lacrosse Returns to Patriot District Championship Game
Dunn, Lightfoot lead Cavaliers past Annandale in district semifinals.
The Woodson girls' lacrosse team will face Lake Braddock in the Patriot District tournament final for the second straight year.
Absentee Voting Starts Now for Democratic Primaries
Primaries held for lieutenant governor and attorney general.
The State Board of Elections reported Monday, May 6, that absentee voting began for the June 11, 2013 primary and all localities met the required 45-day deadline for mailing absentee ballots to voters.
Helping Those Who ‘Can’t Catch a Break’
Community support for Northern Virginia Family Services grows during tough economic times.
“Most of us here lead privileged lives. You can and should make a difference in Northern Virginia.” —Earle Williams
Women Mean Business
In the two months since the much-hyped and dreaded sequester took effect, the daily economic forecast has been almost as painful as the slow grinding of bureaucratic wheels. But here’s some good economic news, especially for aspiring female entrepreneurs: the numbers are in your favor.
Tuesday, May 7
McLean Station Nears Completion
Work continues on systems beneath the canopy of the Silver Line's McLean Station.
McLean Jazzercise Raises $12,525 for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Over 100 dancers participated in Jazzercise of McLean and Tysons Corner’s Dance for a Cure fundraiser, which raised $12,525 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by staging a benefit dance-fitness marathon on Saturday, April 20, 2013.
Week in Vienna
This week in Vienna features some new, exciting events like a new Police Chief and a concert!
Letters: How to ‘Make Life Greener?It was fantastic to read about Vienna’s commitment to more sustainable living [“Making Life ‘Greener’ in Vienna” (The Vienna and Oakton Connection, April 24-30, 2013
The writer is the coordinator for the Virginia Healthy Air Coalition of the American Lung Association in Virginia.
McLean High Yearbook Wins Pacemaker Award
Other area high school publications recognized.
“The Clan,” the yearbook of McLean High School, was one of 25 high school yearbooks nationwide to be recognized with a Pacemaker Award by the Journalism Education Association-National Scholastic Press Association (JEA-NSPA) for 2013.
Week in McLean
Serial Burglaries in McLean Area
This week in McLean had some interesting events like a Church yard sale, a book sale, and even a few burglaries!
McLean’s Kitchen and Garden Tour a Success
A ribbon-cutting kicked off McLean’s first Kitchen and Garden Tour, on Wednesday, May 1.
Park, Ride and Relax
MCC asks residents to “Park, Ride and Relax” by using three convenient shuttle services on McLean Day 2013.
The McLean Community Center asks residents to help the environment, reduce traffic on Chain Bridge Road and eliminate personal stress by using free shuttle rides.
McLean Day 2013, Saturday, May 18: “Celebrating Our Hometown”
It’s the place to be with the people you want to be with: McLean Day has that hometown feel.
The McLean Community Center’s (MCC) annual community festival McLean Day 2013: “Celebrating Our Hometown” draws a large crowd of residents and local businesses and organizations together once a year to celebrate their “hometown.”
McLean Day Only Gets Better With Age
This year’s Saturday, May 18 celebration approaches centennial.
The McLean Community Center’s annual community festival is approaching its 100th anniversary.
Help Fully Restore Colvin Run Mill
Colvin Run Mill, the Park Authority site, is a finalist in a web-based contest sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express.
Letters: Mega-mansions and the Like
My friend and I decided to go for a drive around our Great Falls “village” and enjoy the sights. Alas, what I saw of our manmade structures was less than uplifting.
Letters: Pike As a Raceway
I have resided in Great Falls since 1986. For more than 25 years, I drove along Georgetown Pike, "a scenic byway," to the beltway before 6 a.m. on most business days.
Governor McDonnell Endorses Springfield Site for FBI Headquarters
In letter to FBI director, McDonnell says Fairfax County site will advance “national security mission.”
Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell has publicly endorsed the Springfield warehouse site for the new FBI building headquarters. In an April 30 letter to FBI Director Robert Mueller and Dan Tangherlini, the acting administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration, McDonnell said the federally owned warehouse is the best choice for a number of reasons.
Friday, May 3
Classified Advertising May 1, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Wednesday, May 1
Five Northern Region Athletes Compete at Capital Classic
Wakefield senior Moore leads Northern Region scorers with 12 points.
The District All-Stars defeated the Suburban All-Stars; the United States All-Stars beat the Capital All-Stars.
‘Great Performances’ at Mason
Featured acts include the Joffrey Ballet, Sir James Galway, and four productions from the Virginia Opera.
Though not exactly suffering from a surplus, it’s clear from their new lineup that the staff behind the George Mason University Center for the Arts is driving forward, sequester or not.
Opening Doors for Neighbors in Need
FACETS marks 25 years of community service.
“A few years ago my life underwent two major changes that shook my world. … My husband and I separated and then I lost my job.” Lisa, a Fairfax mother, delivered that blunt statement during her speech to a crowd of more than 400 people during FACETS’ “Opening Doors” Benefit Breakfast on April 25.
Supporting Injured Officer
A community celebrates and supports Officer Long Dinh.
On Sunday, April 28, Officer Long Dinh arrived at the fundraiser hosted by the Fraternal Order of the Police (FOP) and was met with enthusiastic applause and praise.
Making The ‘Junk Food Blues’ Music Video
To the tune of jazz, nine children from the Kidz MusiQ Club recorded a music video in Fairfax Sunday, April 14, to the song “Junk Food Blues.”
Tell Your Story with ‘Better Said Than Done’
Storytellers in Northern Virginia troupe “Better Said Than Done” come from all over to tell their stories.
Started in 2011 by Jessica Piscitelli, “Better Said Than Done,” a professional storytelling troupe, has gone from strength to strength over the past two years with a pool of about 45 talented storytellers. But who knew people would be interested in coming out to listen to what they have to say?
Fairfax Teenager Wins Writing Contest
Peter Hwang is only in the seventh grade, but he recently won the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) writing contest. He wrote an essay answering the question, “What would you say to the Founding Fathers?”
Fairfax Assault Victim Dies of Injuries
City of Fairfax police say a 63-year-old city resident, William Hays O’Brien, has succumbed to injuries sustained April 16 when he was assaulted in a shopping-center parking lot.
Apple Federal Credit Union Offers Sequester Leniency
Apple Federal Credit Union is prepared to aid those member households that have been affected by the recent government sequestration through offering a limited-time sequester loan.
Fairfax County Union Officials Say Board’s Budget Fails Staff, Residents
Supervisors maintain cuts necessary to eliminate projected $169 million shortfall.
On the day the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors adopted the FY2014 budget, the leaders of Fairfax County’s four public employee unions issued a joint statement saying the budget “failed” staff and county residents.
Area Students Win Virginia History Day Awards
Students from three Fairfax County public schools earned awards at the 2013 Virginia History Day competition, held in Williamsburg.