Stories for July 2014

Stories for July 2014

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Thursday, July 31

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Springfield Shortlisted for FBI Headquarters

Other locations are Greenbelt and Landover.

Springfield could very well be the next site of the FBI headquarters. The General Services Administration and FBI announced Tuesday that Springfield was included on the shortlist for the new FBI headquarters.

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Laurel Hill Master Plan Meets Final Approval

Construction expected to begin this fall.

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to approve the plan to develop the site of the former Lorton prison.

Wednesday, July 30

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Foreign Nationals Immersed in Local Lifeguarding

For some, it starts out on two wheels.

Every day, Vasyl Smolii uses two different routes when he bikes to and from work at the Belle View pool in Alexandria. Coming down the hill on Belle View Boulevard is an easy ride in the morning but going back up in the evening is not as easy on the bicycle Smolii rents from his sponsor High Sierra Pools, an Arlington-based pool management company. "I must buy this bike for the summer," said 19-year-old Smolii from Ukraine.

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Serving Families For 90 Years

Pushing the boundaries has led to success, says Northern Virginia Family Services CEO.

An organization does not thrive for 90 years by chance. Northern Virginia Family Services, a county institution, has impacted families throughout the region for nearly a century with no sign of slowing down.

Column: “CanSir”

When it comes to being a cancer patient, even more so a multi-year cancer survivor, I have always erred on the side of caution. And by caution, I mean being respectful to the disease, courteous of its comings and goings, mindful of its potential damage and afraid of its intangibles. And by intangibles, I mean the unexplained and the inexplicable, and most fearfully, its power and unpredictability. Therefore, my behavior toward it has been intended to be as polite as possible; never to be perceived – in any way imaginable – as arrogant, presumptuous, in control, all-knowing and most especially, victorious.

Editorial: Finally, Marriage Rights Protected in Virginia

On July 28, 2014, in affirming that Virginia’s ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, Circuit Judge Henry F. Floyd writes: “We recognize that same-sex marriage makes some people deeply uncomfortable. However, inertia and apprehension are not legitimate bases for denying same-sex couples due process and equal protection of the laws.

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Governor's Mansion, Confidential

Defense team in corruption case to detail crumbling McDonnell marriage.

When he takes the stand in his own defense, former Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell will read jurors an email that he wrote to his wife as their marriage was said to be crumbling.

Thursday, July 24

Becky and LuLu: A Special Bond

The relationship between dog and girl is strong, the bond never to break. I, personally, grew up — and am still growing up with — wonderful dogs. First, there was Leroy. I was born into the middle of his reign on the Randolph household kingdom, and he helped to raise me, the princess of his kingdom.

Ferreting for Fun

Local ninth grader appreciates playful nature of Steve and Skippy.

Commonly known for their playfulness and pungence, ferrets have earned themselves the moniker of “the clowns of the animal kingdom” from sources like Animal Planet. City of Fairfax resident Brandon Henry, 13, of Robinson Secondary has greatly enjoyed this aspect of his two ferrets, Steve and Skippy, for the past two years. “I asked for them two years ago for Christmas, and ended up receiving them as a gift from my parents,” Henry said. “At the time, my sister always called random things ‘Steve,’ so I decided to name one of the ferrets ‘Steve,’ and the other one was always hopping around, so I named it ‘Skippy.’”

Letter: Dog Training - Chasing Lulu

Letter to the Editor

Krazy for K9s 4H club is a group for children 9 through 19. It’s a fun, free club for anyone in the age range that has a dog and wants to train it. We do many activities at different destinations, like Give Together Day, the 4H fair and Reston’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Letter: Following the Rule of Honor

Letter to the Editor

The recent story in The Connection about Governor Terry McAuliffe signing special legislation that would focus on helping military personnel and their families underscored the importance of what these fine Americans do for our country. A grateful nation and state should acknowledge their sacrifice by helping them when possible.

Meet Best Friends of Fairfax

Canine companions bring happiness into owners’ lives.

Close friends and neighbors, Judy Schnoeblen and Laura Gunson of Fairfax, only become closer through their dogs, Hunter and Archie, who are also very close companions.

Tax and Wire Fraud: Three Years Prison

Fair Oaks tax preparer filed false returns with the IRS.

Although she received a sentence below the state guidelines, a former Fair Oaks tax preparer will be spending the next three years in prison. She is Thuy Tien Le, 40, who learned her punishment last Friday, July 18, in U.S. District Court in Alexandria.

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Workshop Promotes Science Education

On Tuesday, July 15, the Virginia Initiative for Science Teaching and Achievement (VISTA), in conjunction with the George Mason University College of Education and Human Development, held a day-long program that focused on advancing science education in Fairfax County schools.

Lizzie and Yola, the Life Saving Labs

About eight years ago, a very special dog came into our lives – and the lives of many others. We signed up with Guiding Eyes for the Blind to be Puppy Raisers.

Letter: Time to Make a Change

To the Editor

The current Congressman from Virginia’s 11th Congressional District (Gerry Connolly) prides himself in being the first to defend the Obama Administration. He has defended the Attorney General, the handling of Benghazi, the NSA, the VA, the Border Patrol, the EPA, and most importantly and most frequently the IRS.

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Pet Connection July 2014

Our readers submitted photos of their adorable pets.

Frodo and Sam have become best friends – sort of. My husband and I adopted Frodo from Home Alone Cat Rescue several years ago. He is part Maine Coon and part American Bobtail, with a funny short tail. He may have been mistreated by a previous owner because he is afraid of everything, especially ceiling fans. He quickly became comfortable in our home as an “only cat.”

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Robinson Grad Never Far from Roots

Hometown entrepreneur set to open business in Fairfax.

Baher Elgibali, 31, of Kingstowne, is no stranger to stress, having worked in real estate and construction for almost 10 years. A former real estate specialist at Debbie Dogrul Associates - a Fairfax real estate company - Elgibali learned about the extreme sides of stress and found that massage was a way to relieve it.

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Serving up a Summer Treat

Springfield residents make homemade ice cream at area farmers markets.

Even with flavors that contain vegetables like beets and rhubarbs, children and adults alike are crazy for Craig and June McMullen’s homemade, fresh and natural ice cream. “It’s a great way to get kids to eat vegetables,” June said.

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Express Lanes, Rapid-Bus Transit Planned for I-66

Improvements will be made from Capital Beltway to Haymarket.

Express lanes and rapid-bus transit could be coming to Interstate 66, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe announced on July 17.

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Give Blood, Give Back to Community

Paul VI student hosting blood drive in Clifton.

When Mitch Kiefer was 6, his 3-year-old brother Brent was diagnosed with leukemia. Brent recovered, but Kiefer remains committed to helping others suffering from similar illnesses. Now, Kiefer, a student at Paul VI Catholic School in Fairfax, is planning a second blood drive in Clifton in honor of his brother.

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Springfield Pet Store Shares Importance of Good Nutrition

Felix & Oscar provide natural pet food.

Nikki Logan and Matt O’Leary, employees of Felix & Oscar, a natural pet food store in Springfield, admit that their pets probably eat better than they do sometimes. “With all of the processed and artificial stuff that’s in fast food, I would definitely say yes,” Logan said.

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Caring for Aging Pets

Jason Overman of Springfield Animal Hospital shares some best practices.

Even for those pet lovers who pay close attention to the health and well-being of their pets, it’s not uncommon for owners to be unaware of when their pet is reaching the point of becoming a senior. Because the lifespan of pets can vary, it’s important to do extensive research, and to take pets to the vet at least once a year.

Wednesday, July 23

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Across Northern Virginia, Men Pull Larger Paychecks than Women

Trend is more prominent in wealthier areas.

When Lola Arce de Quintela first moved to Oakton 20 years ago, she noticed something about the way men and women arranged their professional careers around their family lives in Northern Virginia. Men took high-powered jobs with large paychecks, while women often dropped out of the workforce to take care of growing families. If women had full-time jobs, she says, they would often select positions that were not as demanding so they could focus their time and attention on their children while husbands and fathers pulled in six-figure salaries.

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Express Lanes, Rapid-Bus Transit Planned for 1-66

Improvements will be made from Capital Beltway to Haymarket.

Express lanes and rapid-bus transit could be coming to Interstate 66, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe announced on July 17.

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Puppies Destined for Important Work

Bred, donated and/or rescued for assistance dog training by paws4people.org, these "baby pictures" will be shared with the children and veterans matched with each dog.

Editorial: Tragic Consequences

Money lost by refusal to expand health coverage, but also life, health and livelihood.

The Virginia General Assembly’s refusal to expand Medicaid, extending health coverage to as many as 400,000 Virginians has resulted in the loss of about $1 billion in direct payments. But that understates the loss, failing to calculate the cost of the lost health of thousands of Virginians.

Friday, July 18

Helping Out and Giving Back

Paul VI grad tutors Hispanic children.

Born in Colombia, Laura Quiñones came to the U.S. with her parents at age 7. She knew English words, but needed practice talking conversationally.

Affordable Housing Lack Can Lead to Hunger

ODB director beseeches Fairfax City Council to take action.

During the June 24 swearing-in ceremony of the Fairfax City Council members and mayor, Councilman Jeff Greenfield decried the fact that so many children in the City are hungry. He then promised to create a task force to attack the problem.

Letter: More Sleep As a Smokescreen

Letter to the Editor

There is no doubt that more sleep is healthier. That is common sense. The real mental disorder is spending money that the school can't afford.

Thursday, July 17

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Bridge to Life Skills

Our Daily Bread's Project BRIDGE Program held a “Life Skills” Seminar on Saturday, July 12, with a focus on nutrition.

Rotary Club Awards Scholarships to Fairfax High Students

The Rotary Club of Fairfax recently recognized several area students with scholarship awards for their academic achievement and community service.

Letter: Ramadan - A Treasure Map

Letter to the Editor

Ramadan is known worldwide as the month of fasting for Muslims, but to me, it’s worth much more than not eating all day. Ramadan helps me meet goals on a spiritual level; ones I thought would be unachievable.

Letter: Election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District

Letter to the Editor

The current Congressman from Virginia’s 11th Congressional District (Gerry Connolly) prides himself in being the first to defend the Obama Administration. He has defended the Attorney General, the handling of Benghazi, the NSA, the VA, the Border Patrol, the EPA, and most importantly and most frequently the IRS. All of which can do no wrong in his view.

GMU Honors Fairfax Mayor Silverthorne

City of Fairfax Mayor Scott Silverthorne capped off his Fourth of July by enjoying the fireworks at Fairfax High. But he began his day by receiving an award from GMU. It was presented by GMU President Angel Cabrera during a Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce breakfast reception at Red, Hot & Blue before the City’s Independence Day parade.

Fairfax Home Sales: June, 2014

In June 2014, 126 Fairfax homes sold between $1,240,000-$145,000.

Fairfax Home Sales: June, 2014

Week in Fairfax

Weekly happenings in Fairfax

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New Principal at Laurel Ridge

Tonya Cox, who has worked in Fairfax County Public Schools for 23 years, began her role as principal of Laurel Ridge Elementary School in Fairfax on July 1.

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Saying Goodbye at Halley Elementary

School says goodbye to a ‘true humanitarian.’

Since Halley Elementary School opened in the 1990s, Phoebe Boatright has been at the school inspiring students and helping the Lorton community. This June, Boatright retired after 46 years in education. Students, staff and parents at Halley say they will miss Boatright, who worked as a counselor at the school.

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Expect HOV Lane Closures This Summer

Construction of 95 Express Lanes continues.

Drivers planning on using Interstate 95 to get to their vacation destination, or even just to get to work, should prepare for overnight and weekend HOV lane closures from Washington, D.C. to Dumfries as construction of the 95 Express Lanes continues.

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Celebrating the ‘Best of Braddock’

Braddock District residents honored for service.

From 10-year-old Rohil Bhinge, who helped raise funds to complete a handicap accessible playground, to Norma Heck, who was one of the first five homeowners of North Springfield in 1955, the Braddock District is full of exceptional citizens.

Fairfax School Board Elects Chairman, Vice Chair

Tamara Derenak Kaufax and Ted Velkoff elected to lead Board.

Tamara Derenak Kaufax (Lee District) and Ted Velkoff (at-large) were elected chairman and vice chair of the Fairfax County School Board on Thursday night, July 10, following an abstention from some members in the election of chairman. Both will serve in their positions for one year.

Wednesday, July 16

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Robinson Grad Pinkston to Play Football at R-MC

Q and A: 5-foot-8 defensive tackle defies odds by continuing career.

Robinson graduate Jake Pinkston will play defensive tackle at Randolph-Macon College.

Financial Education for College Students

Local experts offer budget tips to keep students out of debt.

As the summer wanes, many recent high school graduates are preparing to head to college. For those who are living away from home for the first time, this means newfound independence. But that freedom brings responsibility — especially when it comes to money.

Numbers Indicate Stable Market

June home listings climb, with slight dip in sales; average, median prices continue to inch up.

The Northern Virginia market recorded increased inventories, providing buyers with more choices. Nonetheless, buyers are challenged by affordability and accessing credit.

Dental Associates to Support Give Kids The World

Dental Associates of Northern Virginia, with six locations in Northern Virginia, has partnered with Give Kids The World, and named their joint initiative “Smiles for Hope.” Dental Associates of Northern Virginia will be fundraising for Give Kids The World throughout the year in support of its “Smiles for Hope” initiative.

Between Halves

At present, July 12th, I’m halfway, approximately, between my last CT Scan which showed a previously unseen silver-dollar sized growth in my lower left lung and my next CT Scan scheduled for August 6th, one month earlier than my usual three-month interval in order to make an evaluation sooner rather than later; to determine if this is new growth or nothing more than old growth that is now visible due to the combination of shrinking tumors and dissipating fluid opening up the viewing area, so to speak. Apparently, the chemotherapy drug, Alimta, with which I’ve been infused every three weeks since last September appears to be doing its hoped-for job: shrinkage.

Eight FCPS Students Win College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships

Eight Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) graduates from the class of 2014 have been named winners of college-sponsored scholarships by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Recipients of college-sponsored scholarships from the NMSC, with their probable career fields in parentheses, are:

Inova Fairfax Hospital: #1 in D.C. Metro Area

For the third year in a row, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus has been ranked as the #1 Hospital in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area by U.S. News & World Report. Inova Fairfax also jumped in rankings to #2 in the state, and earned national recognition as #33 in the country in Gynecology and #42 in Neonatology. The annual U.S. News Best Hospitals rankings, now in their 25th year, recognize hospitals that excel in treating the most challenging patients. “Three years in a row as #1 is an outstanding accomplishment and we are proud of our hospital’s dedicated physicians and staff who provide the best of care to our patients every day. I’d like to congratulate our staff, particularly within Inova Women’s and Children’s for their impressive and well-deserved national rankings,” said Patrick Christiansen, PhD, chief executive officer, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus.

Editorial: Save a Little, Help Others Prepare for School

Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies is a good reminder to donate supplies and dollars for children who need help arriving at school prepared.

Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies and clothing is Aug. 1-3, and it makes sense to take advantage of the savings, and to spread the wealth around.

Friday, July 11

Governor McAuliffe Signs into Law Legislation for Military

Governor Terry McAuliffe and Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, Admiral John Harvey held a special ceremony last week to sign into law several pieces of legislation affecting the military community.

Week in Fairfax

Weekly happenings in Fairfax.

Letter: Dog Training - Chasing Lulu

Letter to the Editor

Krazy for K9s 4H club is a group for children 9 through 19. It’s a fun, free club for anyone in the age range that has a dog and wants to train it. We do many activities at different destinations, like Give Together Day, the 4H fair and Reston’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Thursday, July 10

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School Board Decreases Suspension Time

Student Rights and Responsibilities revised.

Starting this fall, suspensions for certain student offenses in Fairfax County will decrease, thanks to a revision of the school system’s Student Rights and Responsibilities [SR&R]. The school board voted unanimously at the end of June to change the discipline handbook, which will now focus on in school suspensions to preserve time in school. Offenses that come with mandatory punishments are decreased under the updated handbook.

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Fairfax Updates Green Building Policy

New policy is result of new technology for green rating systems.

The green building policy in Fairfax has been updated, requiring higher standards for residential, retail, office and other construction projects seeking approval for rezoning in the county.

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Archive Provides ‘Insight into the Reality of Segregation’

Northern Virginia Civil Rights Archive dedicated at George Mason.

Civil Rights activists Edwin Henderson, Lillie Jessie and Ralph Smith joined numerous other Virginia residents who lived through the Civil Rights movement and provided their stories during a dedication ceremony for the Northern Virginia Civil Rights Archive on July 7.

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Junior Buffalo Soldiers

The Junior Buffalo Soldiers Drill Team participate in the City of Fairfax's Fourth of July parade.

Wednesday, July 9

Classified Advertising July 9, 2014

Read the lastest ads here!

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Concert Series Kicks Off at Fairfax Government Center

Bluegrass band Bill Emerson and Sweet Dixie played for an enthusiastic crowd.

Despite the hurricane warnings and the dismal weather, area residents turned out for the first Ellipse Summer concert at the Fairfax Government Center last Thursday, July 3. Originally planned for the government center “backyard” lawn, the bluegrass band Bill Emerson and Sweet Dixie moved to the lobby of the government center instead, proving that the concert would go on come rain or shine.

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Our Daily Bread Launches School Supply Drive

Fairfax-based nonprofit Our Daily Bread (ODB) is seeking volunteers from the community to donate funds, backpacks and calculators to assist needy children who attend schools in the Fairfax County area as part of its Collect for Kids Back to School Program. For the fourth year, ODB is collaborating with Kids R First, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), the Fairfax County O

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No More Parking in Old Town Square

As of Monday, July 7, parking lots within the Old Town Square project area of Fairfax are closed for construction. This area is the northern portion of the block bounded by University Drive, North Street, Main Street and Old Lee Hwy/East Street.

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Beloved Children’s Book Comes to Life on Stage

‘Pippi Longstocking’ to be presented in Fairfax.

A children’s classic comes to life when The City of Fairfax Theatre Company and Truro Anglican Church present “Pippi Longstocking: The Family Musical.”

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Robinson, Woodson Students Performing in Hit Musical

They’re in “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.”

Students from Robinson Secondary and Woodson High play prominent roles in Westfield Summer Stage’s upcoming musical, “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.” Featuring a cast and crew of 85, all performances are at Westfield High, 4700 Stonecroft Boulevard in Chantilly.

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A New Work Order

Local designers help create organized and stylish home offices.

Whether it’s a nook, in the kitchen or a designated room, a home office is the place were ideas come to life. Local designers dish about the secrets to creating a workspace that is organized and functional yet stylish. “You’re going to spend a lot of time in it so aesthetics do matter,” said Patricia Tetro of BOWA in McLean.

You Can Run, But You Can’t Win?

Fairfax County fires attorney for winning city council seat.

Like many lifelong City of Fairfax residents, Nancy Fry Loftus is proud of her hometown’s character and charm — a Norman Rockwell postcard of small-town life in the heart of an increasingly urban, diverse and bustling region.

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NASA Comes to Colvin Run Elementary

Space station astronauts speak live to students.

Students got a real hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) experience by linking directly with the NASA international space station.

Not That I’ll Ever Be Out, But…

“Just when I thought I was out…they pull me back in.” Although this quote is from Michael Corleone from “The Godfather: Part III,” it very much characterizes my daily struggle being a terminal cancer patient; non small cell lung cancer, NSCLC, is like that, almost always. Even though I don’t want to think about the fact that I have cancer, or not let it affect my judgment on life – or perspective; or let it impede my path to a happier existence, more often than not, it does.

Editorial: Hurray for Full Day Mondays

Hoping that later start times for high schoolers follows quickly.

For decades, Fairfax County schools have sent elementary school students home after half a day on Mondays. This was never a good idea, and it has been more damaging to family schedules and student learning with the increase over the years of two-income households and greater economic diversity.

Tuesday, July 8

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World Cup Fever

Area soccer coaches, players share 2014 World Cup viewing experiences.

Area soccer players and coaches have followed the 2014 World Cup closely.

Commentary: County Falling Behind on Its Housing Goals

On June 9, the Residential Studio Committee of the Fairfax County Planning Commission voted to recommend that the review of the Zoning Ordinance Amendment for Residential Studio Units be tabled. This recommendation will be voted on by the full Planning Commission at its July 24 meeting and it is almost certain that it will be adopted. After months of committee hearings and community meetings throughout the county, the RSU amendment will be quietly put to rest.

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Commentary: Area Nonprofit Guides Entrepreneurs to Start-Up Success

For many working poor, the challenges of conquering the barriers to education, childcare and transportation are too great to overcome. Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS), the nonprofit known for providing food and shelter, health and dental access, and Head Start programs for more than 36,000 local residents a year, also is working to alleviate poverty with its innovative entrepreneurship program.

Wednesday, July 2

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July 4th Festivities in Fairfax County

A list of celebratory events taking place on July 4th.

A list of parades, fireworks and family-friendly events taking place this Friday, July 4.

Fairfax Teacher to Participate in National Education Program

Patricia Becker-Sabik of Eagle Ridge Middle School in Ashburn, Angie Rollett of Chantilly High School, and Christine Watson of Daniels Run Elementary School in Fairfax have been selected from a pool of more than 400 applicants to participate in the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Summer Teacher Institute for the week of July 7-11, 2014.

Examining a Stressed-out Teen’s Life

Hub Theatre brings world premiere of "Abominable."

Life as a teenager can be fraught with anxiety. Now Fairfax's Hub Theater is bringing a premiere production inspired by "the regularly escalating violence that is being perpetrated in and on our schools" said Hub artistic director and playwright Helen Pafumi. The play is "Abominable."

CFTC Offers Children’s Summer Theater Camp

The City of Fairfax Theatre Company (CFTC) hopes to replace children’s summertime blues with a chance to not only learn about acting, but perform onstage.

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‘Thank You for Your Time and Dedication’

City bids farewell to Councilmen Drummond and Stombres.

The City of Fairfax bid farewell last week to outgoing City Councilmen Dan Drummond and Steve Stombres in a special ceremony on the City Hall lawn. Each has served for six years, and the June 24 event included Boy Scouts, the City of Fairfax band, and the City Police and Fire Department Joint Honor Guard.

Fairfax Prepares to Celebrate the 4th

Parade, music, fireworks and fun.

The City of Fairfax will celebrate the Fourth of July, this Friday, starting with a 10 a.m. parade that travels through the downtown Fairfax Historic District. It’ll go on, rain or shine, starting at the Massey Building at 4100 Chain Bridge Road. Participants will march in a loop past the old courthouse, along Main Street and University Drive and past the reviewing stand in front of City Hall on Armstrong Street.

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Council, School Board Look to the Future

Swearing-in ceremony at Veterans Amphitheater.

Before friends, family, colleagues and guests, City of Fairfax Mayor Scott Silverthorne and members of the City Council and School Board were sworn in last Tuesday, June 24, in the Veterans Amphitheater outside City Hall.

Letter: Later Start Times Can Benefit Community

To the Editor: To set the record straight, there is nothing worse for traffic than a car crash, and sleepy teen drivers are like drunk drivers in terms of performance behind the wheel. Later high school start times are safer for teens and also for the rest of us as they have been shown to significantly decrease car crashes in young drivers.

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Candidates Speak at Lakeside Cookout

Republican Senate, Congressional hopefuls woo locals during Annual Big Braddock BBQ.

U.S. Senate Candidate Ed Gillespie and Virginia 11th Congressional District candidate Suzanne Scholte found themselves on the receiving end of public grilling Sunday: they, along with several dozen local citizens, enjoyed an array of grilled dishes together at Supervisor John Cook’s fourth Annual Big Braddock BBQ at Burke Lake Park.

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Governor McAuliffe Signs into Law Legislation for Military

Governor Terry McAuliffe and Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, Admiral John Harvey held a special ceremony to sign into law several pieces of legislation affecting the military community. Over ten pieces of legislation were signed into law during a ceremony held in Norfolk, Va. right outside of the USS Wisconsin. These pieces of legislation were passed during the 2014 General Assembly and took effect July 1.

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Full-Day Mondays Start in September

Teachers promised planning time.

Full-day Mondays for all. After 40 years, Fairfax County Public Schools will give all elementary students "full Mondays" for more learning time — and more recess. During a School Board meeting Thursday, June 26, Superintendent Karen Garza said Mondays were cut in half for elementary students since 1972. "While not everyone tonight will embrace the change, we will engage the stakeholders," she told the board.

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Climate Change Could Affect Drinking Water

Residents could see — and smell — a very different Potomac River by 2040.

Drinking cups of clear tap water could be a luxury people are less likely to take for granted in the near future as climate-change culprits affect the waterways — and water bills.

Look Out Below

I think I know what a rampaging bull feels like; and I don’t mean one on Wall Street, either. I mean one in the figurative sense: when one has a need, an overwhelming, unstoppable-type urge, to scratch that itch, to gratify that which has been delayed. What am I talking about? (You sound like my wife, Dina.) I am talking about food. More specifically, I am talking about a side effect I’ve been experiencing of late from the chemotherapy drug Alimta, with which I’ve been infused every three weeks since late September, 2013 (successfully I may add, given the shrinkage noted in my most recent CT Scan).