Wednesday, November 26
Thanksgiving Q&A: Fairfax's Duke to Celebrate in Pennsylvania
Senior earned first-team all-region, helped Fairfax field hockey win region title.
Fairfax qualified for state tournament in back-to-back seasons.
Patient First Facility Heading to Fairfax
Will also provide inter-parcel access to shopping center.
Patient First is opening a walk-in medical facility in the City of Fairfax. It got the go-ahead last Tuesday, Nov. 18, from the Fairfax City Council, following a public hearing.
A Holiday Classic Comes to Life in Fairfax
“A Christmas Carol” offers dinner and a play.
A holiday classic comes to life in an intimate, dinner-theater setting when the City of Fairfax Theatre Co. and Truro Anglican Church present “A Christmas Carol.” Guided by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, Ebenezer Scrooge will take a journey leading to his transformation and redemption.
Column: ‘Shrinkage’
Not exactly “like a frightened turtle” as “similed” on a long-ago Seinfeld episode by Jerry himself; this shrinkage is the good kind, the kind you hope a radiological oncologist characterizes when viewing your CT Scan (computed tomography).
Burke, Fairfax Station, Springfield, Mount Vernon: What Are You Thankful for This Thanksgiving?
“I’m thankful for my family, my relative health and my eighth grade Civics students at South County Middle School.”
Fairfax Resident Talks Victorian Christmas at Burke Historical Society
Electricity didn’t come to Burke until 1928. That meant no one could power strings of lights to decorate Christmas trees; they had to use real candles and assume the very real fire hazard risk. Fortunately, fireproof fake trees made of goose feathers or chenille had already been around since the 1880s.
Tuesday, November 25
‘Timeless’ Author Comes to Fairfax
Lucinda Franks Morgenthau, author of “Timeless: Love, Morgenthau, and Me,” will share her new memoir at a Northern Virginia j.talks event on Thursday, Dec. 4. J.talks, conversations with authors and artists, is a program of the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Lucinda Franks interviewed Robert Morgenthau, and before she walked out his door the two had fallen in love with each other.
Letter: Holidays in Old Town Fairfax
Letter to the Editor
Old Town Fairfax is a relatively "untapped jewel"—why don't many think of it as a destination? It's probably because there is not enough attention focused on it, and all of the things it has to offer-from new shops and restaurants, to antiques and art! People I run into in some of the great shops just "happen" to stumble upon Old Town--when asked about it, they often reply "I drive through here a lot on Main Street, but never realized all of the things it has to offer, so never actually stopped to investigate!"
Obituary: Pamela Wallace, of Clifton, Dies
Pamela Wallace, passed away at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, N.J., surrounded by her loving family. They invite everyone to attend the memorial service celebrating her life at the Christ Episcopal Church, 74 Park Ave., Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2014 at 11 a.m., where she wed her husband, Bob,45 years ago.
And The “Scancer” Is…
Unknown at this date – Saturday, November 15. In fact, it will be six days from now until we’ll know the results. As it is always scheduled, a week or so after my quarterly CT Scan, we will have our usual follow-up, face-to-face appointment with my oncologist. At this meeting, I am examined, and of course, the radiologist’s report of the most recent scan is discussed, and plans for the future – stay the course and/or adjust or switch altogether – are considered.
An Exceptional Education
Exceptional Schools Fair offers parents a chance to learn more about schools for their children with special needs.
Maureen Kleinman wandered from booth to booth, speaking with representatives from schools that cater to students who have special needs. She asked questions about each school’s resources and environment.
Encouraging Girls to Pursue STEM
Holy Child will host female speakers in science, technology, engineering and math fields.
When Trish Whitcomb’s daughter Colleen began to express an interest in engineering, she and her husband were at a loss as to how to foster her academic and career aspirations.
November Raises Awareness and Celebrates Caregivers
Resources available for people living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
Mary Driver-Downs has been one of the primary caregivers for her mother-in-law, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, for the past six years. It has been a difficult journey, but one she says is well worth it.
Giving Thanks Through Music
Raising money for the Fred Begun Scholarship Fund.
At first glance, one might not think that Pilates instructor Julie Begun and high school student Ramone Cason have much in common. But this Thanksgiving their worlds might collide. Cason, his mother, three siblings, relatives and friends will gather for Thanksgiving dinner in the Casons’ one-bedroom apartment in Arlington. The 16-year-old might entertain the group with a musical performance. Although he has never been to an orchestra performance, he dreams of being a professional bass drummer.
Turkey Carving 101
Local chefs offer advice for slicing the star of the Thanksgiving table.
Few things symbolize Thanksgiving like a whole roasted turkey on a platter, but when it’s time for dinner, neatly sliced pieces of meat look even more appealing. Whether it’s sliced at the table or in kitchen, turkey carving can be a daunting task, however. A few local chefs share their favorite turkey-carving methods to create an impressive holiday platter.
Thanksgiving Tablescapes
Ideas for giving thanks in style.
Whether one’s taste in table settings is subtle or over-the-top, it is possible to give thanks in style. From centerpieces to table runners, local designers say the right combination of accessories can create a Thanksgiving table that guests will remember long after the holiday.
Gifts for the Hostess
Stylish ideas for saying thank you.
If you’re planning to be a guest rather than a host for Thanksgiving dinner this year, you don’t want to arrive empty handed. For those who are still searching for the perfect hostess gift, local tastemakers come to the rescue with presents that are stylish and thoughtful.
Editorial: Holidays Are About Giving
Give thanks and share; tens of thousands of families around us are in need.
The holidays are about giving, and giving thanks. The holidays are about children and family. The holidays are about sharing, about joy. The holidays are about being thankful and about faith and appreciation. The holidays are about alleviating suffering for others. Surrounded by the bounty in so many neighborhoods in Northern Virginia, many of us see little signs of the massive unmet needs here. But in Fairfax County Public Schools, more than 52,000 of the students are poor enough to receive free or subsidized meals, a significant measure of poverty.
Thursday, November 20
Gift-Giving Made Easy at Judy Ryan of Fairfax
For fine apparel, home accents, and gift ideas that are already pre-mixed and matched for you, look no further than Judy Ryan of Fairfax in the Twinbrooke Shopping Center off Braddock Road. Located in the same Fairfax location for 26 years, Ryan makes 10 annual trips to New York City to find the hottest runway looks but tailors them to the tastes of Fairfax County women.
Obituary
Lisa Kay Gardner Brothers, 50, of Fairfax, Dies
Lisa Kay Gardner Brothers, age 50, of Fairfax, passed away on Nov. 5, 2014. Lisa was born in Chillicothe, Ohio on April 25, 1964 to Charles and Betty Gardner. Lisa attended Fairfax High School, where she went on to marry Christopher Brothers of Burke. Lisa was an artist at heart; sharing her love of crafting with others.
Seniors Making a Difference
Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down, at least not for the women of the Little River Glen Senior Center: Knit and Crochet Club. The Club meets twice a week throughout the year, making scarves, hats and even some sweaters for themselves and their families, but also to benefit others.
Fairfax County History Conference Focuses on the War of 1812
The 10th Annual Fairfax County History Conference was held on Saturday, Nov. 8 at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in the City of Fairfax. A record 120 participants were in attendance to enjoy the theme of “Fire, Flight & Fury” – The War of 1812 in Fairfax County – 200 Years Later.”
Fairfax Academy Presents Alternate Version of the ‘Nutcracker’
Students in the Dance classes at Fairfax Academy will be performing their version of the Nutcracker, called Mixed Nut, in one public performance on Saturday, Nov. 22, at Lanier Middle School at 12:30 p.m. Fairfax Academy is one of six high school academies in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS).
City of Fairfax to Tackle Affordable Housing
Basically, the City of Fairfax’s affordable-housing policy is a work in progress. The City does have a policy but, as its leaders are finding out, it could use some tweaking. It has a flexible policy that between 5 and 12 percent of the total units built should be designated as affordable. But it makes a difference whether these homes are earmarked for those making 80 percent of the City’s median income of $107,000, or 60 percent.
'Not Guilty’ Pleas in Fairfax Crimes
Jesse Matthew slated for March 2015 trial.
On Oct. 20, a Fairfax County grand jury indicted Jesse L. Matthew Jr. in connection with a 2005 attack on a 26-year-old City of Fairfax woman. Last week, he officially entered his pleas in Circuit Court, and now the case against him is moving forward in the judicial system.
Fairfax City Residents, Businesses Ask for More Affordable Housing
There was standing room only last week when residents and elected officials poured into Fairfax Baptist Church’s fellowship hall to discuss affordable housing in the City of Fairfax. And that church’s pastor, the Rev. Henry Brinton, got right to the point.
Facets Hopes to Raise $80,000
Facets of Fairfax held its 15th Annual Taste of Fall fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 15 at the Sherwood Recreation Center in Fairfax. Deputy Director Maura Williams said the event is expected to raise $80,000, which will go toward supporting its programs to end homelessness in Fairfax.
Rites of Fall
Viewpoints: What do you like to do during Fall and before the start of the holidays?
As the foliage reached its peak, Fairfax County residents turned to their favorite fall activities before the mad rush of the holidays. At the Burke Farmers Market, which runs until Nov. 22, John and Nancy Menke, of Burke, found a way to keep the fresh and local fruits and vegetables they love throughout the year.
Bubbling Caldron, Rambunctious Theatre
Robinson company puts on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.”
Double, double, toil and trouble; fire burn and caldron bubble. The Robinson High School theatre department, newly named Rambunctious Theatre Company, is changing it up with their fall show: Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” The show opens Nov. 20 and runs through Nov. 22.
Fairfax Home Sales: October, 2014
In October 2014, 66 Fairfax homes sold between $999,999-$190,000.
Fairfax Home Sales: October, 2014
Renovation Keeps Rolling at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria
New wing showcased at Nov. 14 ribbon-cutting.
Thomas Jefferson senior Thomas Rogers is big on the laser cutter. “You can cut anything you want,” said the McLean resident, “like exact designs on sheet metal.” Rogers was enthusiastic about the device, but wouldn’t fire it up during the Nov. 14 tour of the Science and Technology Governor’s School’s new two-story wing with 14 research spaces.
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors makes two rail-facilitating moves; Arlington ends streetcar project.
As the Silver Line Metororail project progresses towards its second phase opening date of 2018, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors are helping pave the way.
Wednesday, November 19
Editorial: Why Shop Small? Shop Large Locally
Small business Saturday isn’t enough; don’t wait until then, and don’t stop after that.
There is a joy to shopping in local stores at the holidays, to participating in community traditions and celebrations, to walking along a sidewalk with the streets decked out for the holidays, to being greeted by someone likely to be the owner of the store, to finding gifts that are not mass-produced.
Column: And The “Scancer” Is…
Unknown at this date – Saturday, November 15. In fact, it will be six days from now until we’ll know the results. As it is always scheduled, a week or so after my quarterly CT Scan, we will have our usual follow-up, face-to-face appointment with my oncologist.
Friday, November 14
Dylan Cate of Fairfax High Selected to All-American Marching Band
Dylan Cate of Fairfax High School has been selected for the 2015 U.S. Army All-American Marching Band. Cate will join an elite group of marching band members who will perform during halftime at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.
FACETS to Host Taste of Fall in Fairfax
On Saturday, Nov. 15, FACETS is hosting its 15th Annual Taste of Fall with FACETS, an evening filled with food, fun, entertainment, and a live and silent auction to raise funds to help parents, their children and individuals in Fairfax County and City who are suffering the effects of poverty.
Feeling the ‘Heat’ at GMU
"In the Heat of the Night" by L.A. Theatre Works at GMU Center for the Arts.
Gripping detective mysteries are not only on the television or streaming on the Internet. They can be found in a live theater production coming to the George Mason University Center for the Arts courtesy of the touring company, L.A. Theatre Works. The show is "In the Heat of the Night".
Teen Drug Abuse Signs, Symptoms Meeting in Fairfax
Parents can learn the signs and symptoms of teenage drug abuse, actions to take and where to find supportive resources at a “PROTECT Against Substance Abuse” program.
Paul VI Presents ‘The Miracle Worker’
Based on the true story of Helen Keller, Paul VI High presents “The Miracle Worker.” It features a cast and crew of 60 and is the school’s Cappies play.
Woodson High Ushers in the Holidays with “White Christmas.”
Ringing in the holiday season is Woodson High’s production of Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas.” It features a cast and crew of 65, plus a 25-person pit orchestra, and Director Terri Hobson says it’s spectacular.
Letter to the Editor: Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse
To the Editor: I appreciate your coverage on the work that Shelter House is doing in the Reston community and elsewhere. Domestic violence is a very serious issue that doesn’t seem to receive enough attention for how widespread of an issue it is.
Commentary: Resources and Support for the Caregiver
If you have ever been in the position of providing ongoing, long-term care for a loved one, you are very familiar with the sacrifices involved. You should also know that you are not alone. Whether it is a result of illness, disability, or injury, 39 percent of all adult Americans are caring for an older loved one - an increase from 30 percent in 2010.
Democratic Women of Clifton Launch Holiday Donations Drive
Again this year, the Democratic Women of Clifton and Northern Virginia (DWCNV) will participate in two holiday projects for two organizations. The general public is invited to participate in the donations drive on Sunday, Nov. 16, 3 - 4 p.m. at the Clifton Community Hall, 12641 Chapel Road, Clifton.
Lake Braddock Boys’ XC Wins Region Title
LB, Robinson, West Springfield send 2 teams to states.
The Lake Braddock boys' cross county team is the favorite to win the 2014 6A state championship.
Excuse Me
Early on during my indoctrination/assimilation into the cancer-patient world in which I now reside, I remember asking a fellow cancer patient/friend if I could use cancer as an excuse for whatever it was needed excusing (directly or indirectly related), and she said: absolutely, “blame the cancer.” Years later, after a chemotherapy infusion, I saw my oncologist walking through the Infusion Center and asked him if my thinning hair might be a result of this most recent chemotherapy drug (not all chemotherapy results in hair loss). His response was similar to what my friend had advised me in 2009. He said: “You can blame me,” (which of course, I understood to mean, cancer/the treatment of cancer) “for anything.”
Dos, Don’ts and What-Ifs
Instinctively, I am not the most open-to-new-ideas/new-things kind of person. However, an unexpected diagnosis of stage IV, non small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at age 54 and a half – along with its equally unexpected “13-month to two-year prognosis,” changes a few things. And thanks to a great friend, Rebecca Nenner, whom I have written about previously, I have/have had to become more open, and consequently, have assimilated into my life many non-Western, non-traditional alternatives (pills, supplements, super foods, activities/behaviors, etc.) with which I was totally unfamiliar (I’m a sports and chocolate kind of person), in an attempt to outlive my prognosis.
Bayla Whitten to Perform Carole King's Songbook in Fairfax
"Bayla Whitten is a remarkable talent, with one of the best voices in Washington, D.C." said Matthew Gardiner, associate artistic director, Signature Theatre. "She has graced Signature’s stage several times since she played Beth in our production of "Merrily We Roll Along" in 2007, and is a very important part of the Signature family."
Thursday, November 13
Traveling Purses Raise Domestic Violence Awareness Around Fairfax County
“Victoria” moved to the United States eight years ago with her husband. (Her name has been changed for protective anonymity.) At the beginning, he was the perfect gentleman: holding doors, full of compliments, telling her he loved her. She quit her job to be with him, her first love. Their future in a new country seemed bright.
Jean R. Packard Remembered at Meadowlark Gardens in Vienna
Jean Packard was Frank Roberts’ first boss. He was 13, she was 22 and the acting editor of her father Dave’s Clermont Sun newspaper in Batavia, Ohio. “I was a ‘devil’s rat,’” Roberts said, responsible for odd gofer jobs around the office. “I was trying to hide from work and she’d track me down. She was a tough boss.”
Wednesday, November 12
McLean Location for 2015 DC Design House
House will benefit Children’s National Health System.
The new country estate at 956 Mackall Farm Lane in McLean will be the location for the 8th annual DC Design House, a project that raises money to benefit Children’s National Health System. The 2015 DC Design House will be held from April 11 to May 10.
New Interior Design Book Features Local Tastemakers
Interior designers offer advice on creating an elegant home.
Fall not only brings vibrantly colored leaves and pumpkins, but it also ushers in a slew of new book releases. Among those is an interior design book featuring local designers.
Editorial: Thanksgiving Help for Those in Need
Roll up those sleeves and help.
This week is the week to jump in to help the many organizations that will help needy families through the holidays. Here are a few ideas of how to help, but the opportunities are limitless. More than 236,000 people living in the area do not have access to enough food to sustain an active, healthy life for all members of their households, according to Catholic Charities. That is to say, more than a quarter of a million people, including many children, go hungry on a regular basis.
Column: Excuse Me
Early on during my indoctrination/assimilation into the cancer-patient world in which I now reside, I remember asking a fellow cancer patient/friend if I could use cancer as an excuse for whatever it was needed excusing (directly or indirectly related), and she said: absolutely, “blame the cancer.”
Friday, November 7
Haunted House and Carnival in Chantilly
Screams and laughter were both part of Westfield High’s Haunted House and Carnival
Screams and laughter were both part of Westfield High’s Haunted House and Carnival, Oct. 29-30.
Irresistible American Music from WWII Era
Fairfax Symphony Orchestra presents “I'll Be Seeing You.”
It was a golden age for popular music, even as the guns of war were loudly sounding. It was the era of music by Gershwin, Kern, Carmichael, Ellington done up to perfection by touring Big Bands. It was a time when some couples danced together and others kept in touch by letter with return address from far-away places in Europe or the Pacific.
‘It’s a Privilege and an Honor’
Hosted by local church, Guatemalans visit Fairfax preschool.
For the past 10 years, the women of Fairfax Presbyterian Church have made a mission trip/cultural exchange to Guatemala. And in mid-October, some of the Guatemalan women they met came here to visit.
'Uniform Explores Hard Choices
Mason Hillel features Holocaust stories.
Playwright Aaron Sulkin narrowed his eyes as he watched scenes he wants the cast to repeat during rehearsal of his play “Uniform” to be featured in Mason Hillel’s Expressions of the Holocaust, Storytellers on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at George Mason University’s Johnson Center Cinema in Fairfax.
Fairfax City Votes
Voters turn out for mid-term election.
Jon Chu, of Fairfax City, entered the polling booth at Christ Lutheran Church on Meredith Drive, ready to experience civic duty in action. Except he is only 14. Accompanied by his grandparents, Chu is there to help them translate and understand, as they vote in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
Fairfax Field Hockey Captures First Region Championship Since 1993
Rebels survive late goal from Chantilly, win in double overtime.
The Fairfax field hockey team defeated Chantilly 2-1 in double overtime on Thursday.
Thursday, November 6
Steady Voter Turnout at Fairfax's Greenbriar East
More than a third of those registered there voted Tuesday.
Most voters at Greenbriar East Elementary (GBE) didn’t want to reveal specifics about which candidates they voted for on Tuesday, but they did share their reasons for casting their ballots, in general.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Clifton residents to hold open-house tour of newly remodeled homes for the benefit of local widow.
Neighbors help each other. That's what communities have always been about. Long-time Clifton resident Bob Gallagher is rallying his friends and peers to help his neighbor Elsa Armendaris.
Natural Treatments for Anxiety
Experts say complementary medical treatments can help relieve anxiety and other mental disorders.
When 35-year-old Andrea Evenson decided to try meditation, exercise and yoga to deal with her anxiety, she had already been on a myriad of anti-anxiety medications.
Column: November Is Adoption Month
Here’s how to help find a forever family for children and teens waiting in foster care.
If you are lucky, you don't know what it's like to live in the precarious limbo that defines foster care in this country.
Commentary: Sometimes Perception Really Isn’t Reality
Fairfax County is home to one of the wealthiest populations in the country. Unbeknownst to many, the county is also home to the second largest population of homelessness in this region. In fact, more than 1,200 residents of Fairfax County are without stable and safe homes.
Robinson’s Berman Wins Conference 5 Title
Rams girls’, boys’ teams qualify for regionals.
The Robinson boys' and girls' cross countries qualified for the regional meet.
Wednesday, November 5
HOT Topic
Fairfax County Fire & Rescue invites the media for Hands-On Training.
Rob Schoenberger is pretty good with a 15-foot extendable camera. Its built-in microphone and powerful lights come in handy, paired with a Delsar seismic sensor device, when trying to locate people trapped under the rubble of a collapsed building.
Honored at Mason
McLean resident and former Rector of George Mason University C. Daniel Clemente receives Mason Medal.
This past Wednesday, Oct. 29, dozens of notable people at George Mason University and in Northern Virginia community gathered at the Mathy House to honor former Rector C. Daniel Clemente and former Board of Visitors members Steven Mullins and Anthony Jimenez for their years of service at the university.
Column: Dos, Don’ts and What-Ifs
Instinctively, I am not the most open-to-new-ideas/new-things kind of person. However, an unexpected diagnosis of stage IV, non small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at age 54 and a half – along with its equally unexpected “13-month to two-year prognosis,” changes a few things.
Fairfax Field Hockey Advances to Region Final
Rebels beat Herndon, secure state tournament berth.
The Fairfax field hockey team defeated Herndon 2-1 on Tuesday night in the 6A North region semifinals.
Northern Virginia Democrats Hold Their Ground
In uneasy election, Beyer takes 8th district, but leaves Senate too close to call.
Despite the election still being too close to call, U.S. Sen. Mark Warner gave his supporters at the Doubletree Hotel in Crystal City a full smile and a victory speech. With less than 1 percent of the vote favoring Warner over his Republican challenger Ed Gillespie, the question is whether or not Gillespie will ask for a recount. But if this was troubling Warner as much as it was the Democrats gathered the night of Nov 4, he didn’t show it.
Comstock Wins 10th District Race
Comstock scores resounding 17-point victory over Democratic opponent John Foust.
Shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday night, Republican Del. Barbara Comstock entered the Hilton ballroom in Ashburn to the tune of her favorite song - “This One’s for the Girls” sung by Martina McBride. The sassy, defiant country anthem – which tells girls to “stand your ground when everyone’s giving in” – struck the right chord with Comstock’s supporters, who chanted and clapped along with the music as Comstock took the stage to deliver her victory speech.
Gerry Gets Things Done
Democratic incumbent Connolly fends off Republican challenger Suzanne Scholte.
As Huey Lewis and the News’ “Power of Love” poppy ballad led a soundtrack infused with ’80s pop and modern country music, the mood at the DoubleTree Crystal City hotel in Arlington ebbed and flowed between elated cheers and frustrated boos.
Paper Trail
Single voting method helps streamline the process.
When it comes to voting, paper is the past, the present and the future. The assistant chief election officer at Robinson Secondary school James Emery Jr. of Fairfax said paper is too valuable as a voting record to abandon.