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Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and the Freddie Mac Foundation paid tribute to hundreds of foster parents from the metropolitan Washington region during its third annual Foster Parent Appreciation Gala. Jurisdictions nominated outstanding families to receive special awards including Bill and Raine Dickey of Loudoun County.
John R. Kaplar of Herndon graduated magna cum laude, from Christopher Newport University in Newport News at commencement exercises May 7. He received a Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in computer science and mathematics. He was also recognized with departmental honors in both disciplines. A member of the DeanÕs List, Kaplar has achieved several 4.0 semesters since 2002. He is a member of Alpha Chi, a national honor society recognizing his rank in the top 10 percent of his class.
Kaplar is a 2001 graduate of Paul VI High School in Fairfax. He is an Eagle Scout from Boy Scout Troop 1570 at Clearview Elementary School in Herndon. John is the son of Richard T. Kaplar of Herndon and Susan B. Schneider of Leesburg.
Air Force Reserve Airman 1st Class Keith J. Richards has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.
During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.
In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
He is the son of Paul Richards of Sterling. Richards is a 2002 graduate of Park View High School.
Del. Joe May (R-33) was honored at the 2005 Virginia Transit Association awards May 10 with the Multi-modal Transportation Award for sponsoring budget amendments to expand funding for public transportation and rail, and providing funds for the purchase of new rail cars for Metro and VRE.
A local Sterling resident, Gerard Shi, earned the award of Competent Toastmaster from Toastmasters International May 5. He earned the award with a speech about achieving success through the setting of goals and sticking to them. The award is considered the first step in becoming a proficient public speaker. The Toastmasters is a public speaking group dedicated to helping people to communicate better. Visit www.geocities.com/loudountm/.