Tuesday, July 31
Ned Devine’s Hosts Wounded Warrior Golf Tournament
Annual event will feature servicemembers, benefit wounded warrior charities.
Ned Devine’s Golfing Society will host their second annual golf tournament to benefit wounded warriors Sept. 22 at the Herndon Centennial Golf Course. The society, a 501(c)7, is based out of Ned Devine’s Irish Pub in Herndon.
Saying Farewell at Stonegate
Coordinator Jackie Phan made impression on residents of all ages.
In her three-plus years as community coordinator for Stonegate Community Center in Reston, Jackie Phan impacted almost every single resident of the nearby apartment complex. Young children remember that a blue jeep meant "Ms. Jackie" was in, and the adults enjoyed working with her. Edia Bruce interned with Phan for two years, and praised Phan’s leadership style.
Local Student Keeps Watching Weather
Seventh grader Andrew Bottom runs two weather-related websites.
When it comes to weather, Herndon Middle School student Andrew Bottom has got it covered. The seventh grader and Reston resident has been studying the weather since his days at Aldrin Elementary School.
Pike Named to Historic Register
Virginia recognizes pike June 21, national register in progress.
In 1969, several community members came together to help preserve the Burling Tract, a 336-acre parcel of land, located just north of Georgetown Pike near the Beltway. More than 40 years later, the efforts of at least 140 local citizens have led to the road being placed in the Virginia Register of Historic Places, with the placement on the National Register soon to come.
Seeking A Sundial at Observatory Park
Analemma Society hosts lecture, fundraiser for sundial replica.
In 1371, Arab astronomer Ibn al-Shatir constructed a sundial at the Great Mosque in Damascus that was a pinnacle of scientific achievement. Almost 650 years later, members of the Analemma Society of Great Falls are hoping to bring a replica to Observatory Park at Turner Farm.
VDOT Unveils EZ-Pass Flex
New transponder will allow HOV access to 495 Express Lanes.
The Virginia Department of Transportation unveiled the EZ-Pass Flex Wednesday, July 25 in Tysons Corner. The new pass will allow users of the 495 Express Lanes, which are scheduled to open at the end of this year, to switch between tolled and toll-free (for vehicles with more than three people) use.
McLean Residents Discuss Helicopter Noise
Aviation officials discuss details of local helicopter routes.
As a resident of McLean Hamlet, located just west of the Beltway and Tysons Corner, Behram Shroff is used to the sounds of traffic on the streets. But the traffic above the neighborhood’s head, specifically helicopter flights, is another issue. He estimates eight to ten flights over the neighborhood per day, each one quite noticeable to the point of rattling windows and even lost internet connections.
Monday, July 30
Signature Celebrates
Virginia’s Signature Theatre opens its doors for their annual Open House on Saturday, Aug. 4.
Top 100: Larry Fones, Fairfax Football, Baseball and Basketball, 1948
Larry Fones is from a different time. Fones is from a time when football players wore leather helmets and guns marked the end of the games' quarters.
Top 100: Eddie Royal, Football, 2003
Westfield was trailing early in the 2003 Group AAA Division 6 state championship game. It was a position that the Bulldogs had not been in very often that season.
Top 100: Felton Brothers, Basketball Hayfield 1994 and 1998
Two brothers, seven years, one program, numerous accolades and immeasurable impact.
The writing above the number 33 jersey on Hayfield Secondary's Basketball Hall of Fame wall says the number was retired in 1997. A deeper gaze into the number reveals a story of family, winning and losing, record breaking, team leadership and passion for the sport.
Top 100: Brandon Corso, Football, Woodson 1992
In September of 1991 the Connection came out with its Northern Virginia Football Preview for that year. The caption under the photo on page 3 read, "Woodson flies Air Corso again in 1991."
Friday, July 27
Alexandria Mount Vernon Neighborhood 7/25/12
Taylor Run
In support of National Night Out, on Aug. 7, at 7:30 p.m., the Taylor Run Citizens' Association will be hosting an "Ice Cream Social" at 701 Upland Place.
Meet the Aces
Host families, sponsors celebrate Alexandria Aces.
The Alexandria Aces celebrated with their host families, coaches, corporate partners and fans at the second annual Meet the Aces dinner June 26 at Union Street Public House.
What about Meow?
King Street Cats raises awareness for shy and mature cats.
Mature and shy cats at animal shelters do not make immediate impressions, and are often overlooked by the young and outgoing. Through no fault of their own, these cats have a difficult time finding a loving home.
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Entertainment Calendar 7/25/12
Calendar Events
Pet Submission by Susan Dawson & Max Rotermund: Cinco de Mayo
Susan Dawson and Max Rotermund’s 3-year old cat Cinco (we got him on May 5) came from the pound, so they really don’t know what breed of cat he is.
The Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market Seeks Performing Artists
The Office of the Arts, in partnership with the Alexandria Commission for the Arts, is inviting performing artists to participate in the “Call for performing artists.”
Tail-wagging Treasures Come To the Torpedo Factory Art Center
For those who give a whisker about all things furry, clay artists have dedicated handmade wares to the animal kingdom at the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
Obituary: Edward S. Kidd, Jr.
The Hon. Judge Edward S. Kidd, Jr., 81, died peacefully July 14, 2012.
AIDS Memorial Quilt Exhibition at Torpedo Factory
Twenty-five years in the making, the AIDS Memorial Quilt is the largest community art project in the world.
The Best Cat a Girl Could Have
Four years ago, Esme Bass moved to Springfield and adopted Jack, the bow-legged, cross-eyed cat that belonged to the previous owner of her apartment.
Alexandria Bulletin Board 7/25/12
Alexandria Bulletin Board Events
Springfield’s Chat Room
Some things never change at Bob's Barber Shop.
I got my first haircut at Bob’s Barber Shop in the early 1970s. Not much has changed since then.
Weekly Entertainment (Burke/Fairfax/Fairfax Station/Springfield)
July 27-August 10.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Fairfax Station/Springfield.
Letter: War Against Women
Thoughts on the current status of gender equality.
Letter: Government-Controlled Healthcare
Letter to the Editor
"Leaving Millions on the Table" and "Making Care Affordable" in this week’s Connection [July 19-25, 2012] do not include important facts about government-controlled healthcare.
Title IX Marks 40 Years
Local Coaches Reflect on the Law’s Impact and Societal Changes
Forty years ago on June 23, President Richard Nixon signed into law a series of amendments known as Title IX that banned discrimination on the basis in “any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.” However, the law is mainly known for its impact on high school and college sports.
Weekly Entertainment (Vienna/McLean/Great Falls)
July 27-August 10.
Entertainment in Vienna/McLean/Great Falls.
Children Enjoy Pony Time Classes
It is late morning on a warm and slightly muggy day in July and a half-dozen children are gathered around Allison Mills and her horse, Doc, at the Stables at Meadowood in Lorton.
Letter: Open for Public Involvement?
Thoughts on a lack of citizen input.
Sober Boating at Pohick Bay
On Saturday, July 14, the Fairfax County Police Marine Patrol Unit conducted a sobriety checkpoint at the Pohick Bay Regional Park boat ramp to deter and apprehend intoxicated drivers.
Tsunami Earns Division Championship
Despite a persistent rainfall and a near 30-degree drop in temperature Saturday morning July 21, Riverside Gardens’ Tsunami swim team defeated the host team from High Point Pool by a score of 269-151. With the win, Riverside Gardens became NVSL Division Six champions. The Tsunamis ended the season undefeated: 5-0.
Local Bowhunting Group Hosts Young Archers
On Sunday, June 3, the Appalachian Bowhunters Association (ABA), a northern Virginia group established in 1987, hosted over fifty young people during its bi-annual Youth Day held at the home of Byron and Cheryl Wates, 13212 Wates Spring Place in Clifton.
Letter: A River Farm Adventure
Thoughts on River Farm
Paddle Boarding a Growing Trend at Pohick Bay
Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is the newest thing in paddle sports and is growing fast.
Allen Address Business Owners
Chamber hosts small business roundtable.
U.S. Senate candidate George Allen met last week with small business owners and community leaders at the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce Small Business Roundtable.
Firefighter of the Year
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue top brass, distinguished guests that included Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova, a swarm of firefighters, and family and friends gathered to join in the celebration as Master Technician Robert L. Upchurch was honored as the department’s 2012 Career Firefighter of the Year.
Community Mourns Loss of Joan Mitchell
Owner of Woodlawn Stables dies.
Joan Mitchell died one week ago after a long battle with breast cancer. Friends and family who gathered at her beloved stables described her as possessing “an unparalleled gift with animals,” “a mother figure and mentor,” and a “devoted custodian of Woodlawn Stables.”
Letter: Common Sense And Reason
Thoughts on the Second Amendment/ Right to bear arms.
Sweet About ‘99 Percent of the Time’
Above is Jeff Redman, a native of the Fairfax Station area with his two soft coated terriers, Buddy (age 11) and Annie (age 9). The three were united when his wife reached out to a family friend in Free Union, Va. who was interested in getting rid of some dogs.
Art Project Coming To Your Door?
Alexandria artist, Linda Hesh, is hanging 3,000 white paper doorknob hangers on homes and businesses in the Del Ray and Potomac West areas of Alexandria. On several days leading up to Aug. 2, 2012, Hesh will have a crew of art enthusiasts help her to install her artwork titled “Art is...”
1,550 Backpacks Are Needed
WFCM asks community to help local students.
It’s summertime outside, but Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) is already focused on September. It’s collecting backpacks for students attending 23 elementary, middle and high schools in Centreville, Chantilly and Clifton.
At Long Last, A Traffic Solution
Braddock/Pleasant Valley intersection to be improved.
For years, Fairfax County has wanted to do something to alleviate the traffic tangle that ties up motorists during both the morning and evening rush hours at the intersection of Braddock and Pleasant Valley roads in Centreville.
Clifton Film Fest Under the Stars
The humming of the big screen under the stars brought about a hush from the audience at the Lorton Workhouse this Saturday.
‘Better Be Ready’
Animal Control in action in Fairfax County.
When the call came from dispatch late in the Tuesday July 17 shift, Animal Control Officer Kim England turned her truck towards Centreville, to respond to a suspected “hot” or rabid skunk.
Volunteers Needed
Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax Burke Needs Drivers and Office Workers: SCFB was the winner of 2011-2012 Best of Braddock Award for Club or Organization Making a Difference in the Braddock District due in part to the Center’s Medical Transportation and Companion Shopping programs offering free transportation to seniors in the Fairfax and Burke area who no longer drive.
Pets of Fairfax: Popular Around Town
The Ardingers, a Fairfax family of four, have had a Golden Retriever since their two children, Mitchell and Mackenzie, were young. Yet when their mother, Melinda, fell in love with the small Chihuahua, the household expanded to include a dog that was smaller than some of their past cats.
Thursday, July 26
Classified Advertising (July 25, 2012)
Read the lastest Classified, Employment and Home and Garden ads!
Lemonade, Sugar + Water = Chicks
London Towne first-graders help orphanage in Africa.
Even the youngest children can help improve the world, and first-graders at London Towne Elementary proved that recently by raising money for an orphanage in Africa. They did so by selling lemonade, with the proceeds going to the orphanage to buy chicks.
Arlington Real Estate: May 2012 Sales in $900s
In May 2012, 318 Arlington homes sold between $3,555,000-$105,000.
Arlington Real Estate: May 2012 Sales in $900s
Herndon Hosts Summer Production
‘Oliver!’ features students from several local schools.
The Herndon High School Theatre Boosters will present “Oliver!” starting July 27, a summer show that will feature students from Herndon, South Lakes, Chantilly and Westfield high schools.
Three Swimmers Awarded Scholarships
Two members the Meadows Sharks Swim Team in Centreville and one member of the Foxfield Flyers in Fairfax were awarded $500 Herndon swim League Scholarships for 2012 High School graduates.
Centreville School Notes 7/25/12
Centreville School Notes
Mount Vernon School Notes 7/25/12
Mount Vernon School Notes
Park Pleads Guilty In Centreville Murder
Killed his ex-girlfriend’s sister.
Slated for a jury trial in connection with a triple stabbing and murder inside a Centreville apartment, Man Ha Park, 54, instead pleaded guilty to crimes that could place him behind bars for the rest of his life.
Centre View Roundups 7/25/12
Centre View Roundups.
Cockrell Counts His Blessings
Chantilly choral director retires after 26 years.
For the past 26 years, the name Glenn Cockrell has been synonymous with Touch of Class Show Choir, Jazz & Pizzazz and all-around musical excellence at Chantilly High. So his colleagues there, plus students and parents, were sad to learn he planned to retire at the end of this school year.
Business Matters
Death may be one of those unavoidable things. But taxes? That’s another story.
Week in Alexandria
For more than a month, voters in the 45th District have been waiting for Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell to call a special election to fill the seat vacacted by former Del. David Englin (D-45), who resigned to put his family back together after announcing he had been unfaithful in his marriage.
Proposal for Waterfront Hotel Would More Than Double Density of Existing Development
Carr Hospitality presents concept to city even though zoning does not yet exist.
The vivid color images of a hotel on the waterfront offer a stark contrast to the dingy old warehouse currently occupying the northeast corner of Duke Street and Union Street.
After Years of Construction, a New Jones Point Park Emerges from Orange Cones
Southernmost point of the District of Columbia gets a makeover.
Now, after more than a decade hidden behind a veil of orange cones, Jones Point Park is ready to once again take its place among the premier city parks.
Wednesday, July 25
Not Only For the Dogs
Arlington offers “canine community areas.”
On a recent Saturday morning, more than 40 dogs could be seen running around chasing each other, splashing in the nearby creek and busy just being dogs at the Shirlington Dog Park, one of eight such parks which thousands of Arlington and area residents enjoy each week.
Arlington Calendar 7/25/12
Arlington Calendar Events
Arlington Orange line Events 7/25/12
Arlington Orange Line Events
Marathon ’33 Goes into Final Stage Rehearsals
Early last week, the cast and crew of the American Century Theater’s upcoming summer play went into rehearsals on site in Theatre II in the Gunston Arts Center.
Letters to the Editor Alexandria
Letters to the Editor
Michael Marcantonio Engaged to Cara Elizabeth
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Mash, of Abilene, have announced the engagement of their daughter, Cara Elizabeth, to Michael John Marcantonio. Mike is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Palmer Marcantonio of Virginia Beach.
Union Street Celebrates Christmas in July
Summer celebration of Christmas
A Celebration to Bark About
What is everyone woofing about? Pet Valu is hosting a grand opening of their store in Springfield, on Saturday, Aug. 4.
Letter: Expansion of Medicaid
Letter to the Editor
One of the key issues in the Affordable Care Act is the multi-billion dollar expansion of Medicaid. It’s going to cost individual states billions of dollars to enroll all the potential recipients and Virginia will be responsible for at least an additional $1.18 billion.
Check One off the Bucket List
Local woman to compete in Ironman World Championship.
Fair Lakes resident BethAnn Telford has participated in two Ironman competitions in Lake Placid, N.Y., and in several half-Ironman events. But for her, being accepted into the upcoming Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, is the top of the mountain.
Setting Sail for Success
Seaport Foundation celebrates launch of the William Henry.
Shortly after Larry Sadler retired, a visit to a schooner moored along the waterfront prompted a friend to suggest that he consider volunteering at the Alexandria Seaport Foundation.
Meet the Aces
Host families, sponsors celebrate Alexandria Aces.
The Alexandria Aces celebrated with their host families, coaches, corporate partners and fans at the second annual Meet the Aces dinner June 26 at Union Street Public House.
A ‘First Person’ Story on Holocaust
Greenspring resident Michel Margosis to speak at Holocaust Museum.
Holocaust survivor Michel Margosis is one of an estimated 1400 unaccompanied European children brought to the United States from 1933 and through World War II.
Alexandria Bulletin Board for 7/25
Bulletin Board for Alexandria
News Briefs
Water Main Being Upgraded
Virginia American Water has started a water main upgrade on Trinity Drive in Alexandria that will enhance water quality, improve service reliability and increase flows for fire protection.
Asian Culture Celebrated
The 9th Annual Asian Festival was held on the campus of George Mason University.
Found in Translation
Burke native-turned Naval Officer joins humanitarian and civic assistance mission in Vietnam.
Burke native and U.S. Naval Academy graduate Josephine Nguyen was sent to support a U.S. Pacific Fleet sponsored humanitarian and civic assistance mission in Vietnam.
Potomac Entertainment Calendar 7/25/12
Potomac Calendar Events
DMV 2 Go Comes to Reston Town Center
Del. Ken Plum (D-36) helped launch a new partnership between DMV’s mobile services and the Reston community during a visit to the Reston Town Center on Wednesday, July 18.
Dogs’ Day Out at Town Center
Frank Chanka embraces Bear, the family pet, a two year old Pomeranian living near Reston Town Center.
Applying Pet Therapy
Animal Welfare League provides pets, volunteers.
Fellowship Health Resources Inc, a nonprofit mental health and substance abuse treatment agency, is working in conjunction with the Animal Welfare League of Arlington to provide and expand a Pet Therapy program that has become popular with the agency’s members.
Master Plan Bows Before Art
Sewer extension paves way for “one of the world’s most important collections of art” to expand in Potomac.
Glenstone, a 150-acre estate in Potomac that is home to one of the world’s most important collections of contemporary art, will get its own sewer line.
Column: A Life Worth Living, Still
It might be my age (as in getting older), or it might be the fact that I have cancer (you think?), but my brain and the related physical and mental tasks it coordinates are not exactly working at peak efficiency.
Pets for Adoption
Pets up for adoption.
Montgomery County Humane Society Competes in ASPCA Challenge
The weekend of Aug. 3-5 kicks off the Montgomery County Humane Society’s Home Run Adoption Challenge, as MCHS competes in the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge.
Column: Affordable Health Care
A friend of mine of moderate political persuasion said to me recently that while he felt that details of managing the federal Affordable Health Care Act were issues of governance that should continue to be debated and improved, he also felt that passage of the Act was a moral issue that should not be reversed.
All Creatures Great and Small
Walk slated to benefit homeless animals.
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria will host the first-ever Alexandria Shelter Walk for Homeless Animals on Oct. 21 to raise awareness about pet overpopulation and the thousands of animals the AWLA cares for each year.
Column: Lake Anne in the Crosshairs
This seems like our hottest and driest July in living memory. That is a deadly combination around normally idyllic Lake Anne.
Best Friends of Reston
Rob, Julie, and Lindsay, residents of Reston for 10 years, have just come from the Lake Anne Farmers Market and are accompanied by their dog Sunny.
From News Star to Sheriff’s Star
For five years, I pestered Jane Watrel. At least three times a week — and sometimes more — I either emailed or telephoned her with news story suggestions. She never ignored me.
A Second Chance
A 14-year-long circle of life.
Sheila and Jan Rosenberg’s Briard named Chase was the light of their lives. They had purchased him from Deja-Vu Briard breeders in Cleveland, Ohio when their son Adam was six and their daughter Allie was eight.
Keeping Families Safe
Disaster preparedness is something most of us prefer not to think about, but keeping our families safe and ready for any emergency should be job one.
New Animal Services Center Construction Underway
Help mcpaw raise funds.
“After so many years of waiting, the construction of the new Montgomery County Animal Services Center is on schedule with completion set for delivery in the fall of 2013,” said Bruce Garnant, senior project manager for Coakley Williams Construction.
Alarm at Lake Anne
As water level drops, RA encourages Hidden Creek to be a good neighbor.
Residents around Lake Anne have been watching the lake shrink over the past few weeks. With precipitation levels for the month of July below normal, the hot, dry weather is partly to blame. Evaporation is not the sole cause of diminishing lake levels, however.
Having Fun with an Iguana
"Quantum, my blue iguana, is my current pet. My boyfriend Matt and I bought him from a friend earlier this summer and he was only about a foot long.
Potomac School Notes 7/25/12
Potomac School Notes
Celebrating A Wedding
Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Pesce of Oak Hill are pleased to announce the marriage of their son, Francis to Andrea, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Hobeck of Ruckersville.
Dulles Chapter 1241 Celebrates 40th Anniversary
U. S. Representative Gerald E. Connolly (D-11) and NARFE President Joseph Beaudoin headlined the impressive list of guests as members gathered to celebrate Dulles Chapter 1241’s rich history of representing active and retired federal workers in protecting their earned pensions and benefits for 40 years. The festive luncheon program was held on June 25 at the Amphora Diner Deluxe in Herndon.
Tech Savvy Girls Explore Technology
Sandra Beyer, executive director of DigitalKidz, is always looking to enhance the learning experience for students taking her technology camps and classes.
A Boisterous Musical Comedy
Elden Street Players present ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.’
Something completely different is arriving at the Industrial Strength Theatre. The Elden Street Players take on the Northern Virginia Area premiere of a hilarious comedy of two con men who may have met their match.
Tuesday, July 24
‘Oliver!’ at Herndon High
Play features students from several local schools.
The Herndon High School Theatre Boosters will present "Oliver!" starting July 27, a summer show that will feature students from Herndon, South Lakes, Chantilly and Westfield High Schools. The production also received assistance from several local elementary and middle schools, as well as the Reston Community Players, the Alliance Theatre of Chantilly, Westfield Theatre and the Centreville Presbyterian Community Theatre.
Envisioning ‘After the Apocalypse’
Local novelist explores future of mankind.
In a career spent working in international development, Reston resident David Anderson has seen his fair share of exotic locales and the issues they face every day. And his years of work taught him something.
Potomac Interceptor Project Begins
Odor abatement facility, pipeline rehabilitation planned for Great Falls.
Eastern Great Falls will be the site of a new odor abatement facility, part of the ongoing project from the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority
More Tree Troubles for Great Falls?
Tree falls, kills one, residents concerned about others.
A tree on Georgetown Pike at Oliver’s Corner in Great Falls fell over Tuesday, July 17, killing Albert Carl Roeth III while he was driving south at around 6:30 p.m.
Turtle Recall Releases Debut Album
Local band consists of several South Lakes graduates.
It was the start of 2009 when South Lakes High School graduate John-Currie Hester made a resolution to his fellow South Lakes graduate Guido DeHoratiis: to start a band. Soon they recruited a few other South Lakes alumni to join up and they started playing covers at shows around the area.
Turf Field Slated for Nike Park
Project will look to increase usability, improve storm water management.
Nike Field number four is set to become the first artificial turf field in Great Falls, through a joint effort between the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Great Falls Lacrosse Association and the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. In addition to allowing more playing time for local athletic groups, the project will also serve as part of the ongoing storm water management in the area.
Final Metro Span Laid in Tysons
Workers complete overhead bridges, move to laying track.
Workers from Bechtel Construction placed the final aerial span for Metrorail in Tysons Corner Tuesday morning, the last of 258 that will support trains as they make their way from Falls Church to Wiehle Avenue along Phase One of the Silver Line.
Top 100: Kendyl Baugh, South Lakes, Track, 1989
Lessons from track helped six-time AAA state champion Baugh persevere through personal tragedy.
Kendyl Baugh regained that familiar sense of security as she walked her son around the track at South Lakes High School last year. The 35-year-old Baugh traveled back to Reston with her son Kellen — the lone survivor of what would have been four-year-old triplet sons.
Top 100: Katie Beal, West Potomac, Soccer, 2001
Wolverine girls soccer star continued to shine as defensive stalwart for Florida State Seminoles.
Sitting on a bookcase in West Potomac High Athletic Director Jeff Dietze's office is a framed autograph picture of one of the greatest athletes the Alexandria-based public school has ever known. The picture is of Katie Beal — a 2001 West Potomac graduate and Wolverine soccer great — during game action when she was a member of the Florida State University women's team.
Derek Lee, South Lakes Baseball, 1983
South Lakes slugger was drafted five times before playing for Minnesota Twins.
Derek Lee is remembered at South Lakes high school, and by those that watched him play baseball, for his ability to do one thing — swing the bat.
Taline Tahmassian, Langley Soccer, 2001
Langley star recorded 96 goals and before winning NCAA title at Santa Clara.
How good Taline Tahmassian was on the soccer field can be measured by the pages of old newspapers. Tahmassian and the Saxons could be seen celebrating in photographs while snappy headlines chronicled their victories in a week-by-week scrapbook of archived clippings.
Top 100: Jon Carman, Herndon, Football, 1994
Herndon's gentle giant went from the band to the football field and into the NFL.
The legend of Jon Carman has outgrown the "gentle giant's" 6-foot 7-inch, 350-pound body frame. Any coach or neighborhood kid from back in Carman's day remembers his own story about the giant with the big hands whose mother, Betty, said he drank two gallons of milk a day.
Nate Friends, McLean Soccer, Basketball, 1991
Friends dominated the basketball court and soccer field to help McLean to several regional tournament appearances.
Chantilly coach Jim Smith was a relative unknown when he took over the reeling McLean High School boys basketball team back in 1989.
Top 100: Lori Grimm, Washington-Lee, Softball, 1976
In Arlington sports lore, Grimm has excelled as female athlete and coach.
When being a female sports standout was not the norm back in the mid 1970's, Arlington's Lori Grimm excelled on the softball diamond, the soccer field, and the basketball court.
Top 100: Morgan Marr, Madison Softball, 1999
Free-spirited Marr pitched her way to success, four all-state selections, two region titles, and SEC pitching.
What made 1999 Madison graduate and four-time all-state softball selection Morgan Marr so special was that she had "the gracefulness and competitiveness all in one," said her mother Barbara, who used to drive her ballerina daughter between softball games, dance classes and beauty pageants.
Top 100: Norris Davis, South Lakes, 1984
Seahawk wide receiver, defensive back and track star went on to UNC and was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs.
There is no telling how much damage Norris Davis could have done on the high school football field if given the opportunity to play the position that his talent eventually led him to while at the University of North Carolina.
A Passion for Animals
"From a young age, I have always had a passion for animals. In college, one of my dogs passed away and I felt like I had lost a best friend..."
Top 100: John Crone, Yorktown, Football, 2004
Team leader dominated on the gridiron and at the plate for the Patriots.
Few Arlington-area prep school athletic stars have been the overpowering Northern Region forces in two sports that recent Yorktown High graduate John Crone (Class of 2004) was.
Top 100: Jasmine Thomas, Oakton, Basketball, 2007
Only a senior in high school, Thomas is already one of the Northern Region's greatest.
Jasmine Thomas is only a rising senior in high school. The career statistics for Thomas, arguably one of the greatest — if not the greatest — Northern Region girls basketball player, have not been finalized.
Top 100: Lindsey Ertter, Langley, Swim, 2001
Ertter won six state titles and swam in two Olympic trials
Lindsey Ertter is retired now, but not really. The 2001 Langley High School graduate and breaststroker said that she is still coming to grips with missing out on the Olympic swimming goal she dreamed up while watching Janet Evans cruise to gold in the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
Get Your OlymPet
Fairfax County Animal Shelter’s special adoption event runs through Aug. 11.
Dogs, cats, birds and other small animals will be showcased at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter's Summer OlymPETS adoption event through Saturday, Aug. 11.
Oakton High Student Studies Founding Principles
Emily Yaremchuk, 17, a rising senior at Oakton High School, was among seven Northern Virginia high school students who attended the Constitutional Academy, the nation’s premier program for high school students to study the Constitution – the Bill of Rights Institute announced.
Madison High Students Recognized for Leadership Skills
Seven Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students earned gold medals, the highest level of national recognition, at the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) 2012 National Leadership Conference held recently in Orlando.
Terrorists Across the Street
Vienna Author’s ‘Love Thy Neighbor’ reflects on pre-9/11 activities in Vienna.
If it weren’t for the reported suspicions of Mark Gilleo’s mother, "Love Thy Neighbor" suspense novel may never have been written.
Posing for Picture
David Farmer, President of Flint Hill Cemetery Association, took this photo late Sunday morning July 1. He went to the cemetery to assess damage caused by the June 29 storm.
Appointed to Academies
U.S. Rep. Wolf announces service academy appointments.
Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10) announced the 10th District’s Class of 2016 appointments to the nation’s service academies, as well as those selected for Academy prep schools and scholarships to academy-affiliated prep schools.
MPA Fundraiser ‘A Remarkable Success’
The event at Pulcinella Italian Host raises $1,650.
HBC Realty Group Community Charity Champions raised $1,650 for the McLean Project for the Arts at a fundraiser held on July 16 at Pulcinella Italian Host in McLean. This is the most money ever raised by Community Charity Champions and Karen Keys DuVal, Chair of MPA proclaimed the fundraiser at Pucinella's a remarkable success.
The Best Friends of Great Falls
When Frodo first spent the night at Eleeka Asayesh’s house, he cried. After Frodo’s crying got more and more urgent and insistent, Asayesh let him sleep on her bed, and from that point, they were inseparable.
Seneca Hill Holds Open House
During the hot and humid days of summer, most people like nothing more than a relaxing day at the pool. However, dogs are not always granted this luxury – that is, until Seneca Hill Animal Hospital, Resort and Spa’s annual open house.
Presenting Musical Olympics in Great Falls
Piano students from Artstars Studio LLC performed in Musical Olympics recitals recently, featuring music from all around the world.
Editorial: Separate and Unequal?
If we don't believe that poor students are less innately talented, then the disparities in Northern Virginia are truly unfair.
The numbers are eye-popping. Latino students are 22 percent of Fairfax County Public Schools students, but 2.7 percent of the incoming Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology freshman class, the class of 2016. Of the 480 students, seven are black. That's 1.4 percent, while black students are 10 percent of the county school system.
Top 100: Clay Kirby, Washington-Lee Baseball, 1966
Former Generals ace pitched for `Big Red Machine' in the 70s.
Whether his teams were winning big or losing big, former major league pitcher Clay Kirby could always be counted on to take the mound and give his team some quality innings.
Top 100: John Curtis, Fairfax 1988, Wrestler
Collegiate All-American applies lessons learned from wrestling to all aspects of life.
During his senior year at Fairfax High School, John Curtis never slept on his back, because that is the position a wrestler is in when he gets pinned.
Top 100: Michelle Pearson, Gymnastics, Edison 2000
The powerful gymnast earned six individual state titles in two years.
Strength is the word that comes out of people's mouths when asked about Michelle Pearson. According to the Virginia High School League record book, the 2000 Edison graduate is the most decorated female individual high school gymnast in the Northern Region's history with six titles.
Top 100: Alexa Lange, Herndon, Track, 1990
"Go-Go Lexa" won 1988 state title after nearly quitting running.
Alexa Lange, the 1988 3200-meter AAA state track champion, 1989 AAA state cross-country runner-up, 1989 third place finisher at the FootLocker National Southeast regional cross-country tournament and 1999 Texas State Championship triathlete, never saw the point in running before she set foot on the track at Herndon High School.
Top 100: Robbie Maclay, Langley, Lacrosse, 2006
Lacrosse All-American Robbie Maclay played 12 seasons of sports at Langley.
Langley 2006 graduate Robbie Maclay's impact is still fresh in the minds of lacrosse fans, players and coaches in the Northern Region. Maclay just graduated from Langley after having competed in 12 seasons of sports and after becoming the first athlete to do so in 10 years at the McLean-based high school.
Top 100: Michelle Duhart, Wakefield Basketball, 1996
Warriors' all-time scoring leader went on to play on Purdue's national championship team.
Michelle Duhart recently recalled her ninth grade year as a member of the Wakefield High girls basketball team. That Warriors squad, coached by current Wakefield Athletic Director Noel Deskins, struggled to be competitive that season. So team members looked for little victories.
Top 100: Billy Davis, Mount Vernon, Football, 1980
At Clemson University, Billy Davis will forever be known as the player who's clutch, long punt return helped the Tigers defeat Nebraska, 22-15, in the 1981 Orange Bowl football game which decided the national collegiate championship.
Top 100: Joe Lowe, Wakefield Basketball, Football
Former Warriors basketball guard tallied over 1,000 career points, was also Wakefield's football QB.
Current Wakefield High boys basketball coach Tony Bentley recalls his days growing up in the Green Valley neighborhood of south Arlington and idolizing one of the area's great prep school basketball stars, Joe Lowe.
Consumer Confidence on the Rise in Washington Region
Survey participants perceive regional economy better than broader national picture.
Consumer confidence is on the rise, according to results of a new survey by the Greater Washington Board of Trade.
Monday, July 23
Top 100: Chris Sabo, Herndon Wrestling, 1993
Sabo helped catapult Herndon to a decade of dominance.
The sweat that was sweat, blood that was shed, tears that were cried and dreams that were dreamt in Herndon High School's mat-room yielded several individual state championship titles — seven to be exact.
Top 100: Skye Eddy, Herndon, 1989
In an article entitled "Eye on the Skye" from the March 30, 1988 edition of the Herndon Connection, 16-year-old Herndon High School junior Skye Eddy's day was described as a 5:30 a.m. wake up call and a late-night bed fall.
Top 100: Katie Ruckert, Madison Tennis
Katie Ruckert was simply dominant. A 2001 graduate of Madison High school, Ruckert sits in a first place tie for the most AAA state tennis titles in a career in Virginia High School League history.
Top 100: Stephanie Dansereau, Langley Soccer, 2005
Stephanie Dansereau could have been the greatest soccer player in Langley's history if she had been able to play more than the two years her swollen ankles and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury allowed her.
Meeting the Pets of Great Falls
Five stories on local people with pets.
At Kim’s Tailor shop in Great Falls Village Center, clients are greeted not only by Deuk Kim, but by his friendly Yorkie, Mash.
Top 100: Jimmy Sbarra, Langley Lacrosse, 1999
Langley lacrosse MVP went on to play at Maryland and is now coaching Potomac School.
Jimmy Sbarra has lacrosse in his blood — literally. The son of Bill Sbarra — a former University of Maryland All-American (1967) who was inducted into the Long Island Lacrosse Hall of Fame in the class of 1997 — Jimmy "Had big shoes to fill," he said. "I never tried to fill them. I looked at him as role model."
Top 100: Brandon Guyer, Herndon, 2004
Herndon record-holder led UVA in home runs this year.
Herndon football coach Tommy Meier remembers the moment he knew Brandon Guyer — a 2004 graduate and record-holder in both football and baseball — was going to be a special athlete.
Letter: Rejecting a Fairy Tale
Letter to the Editor
I am writing in response to the letter titled "Making Care Affordable" from the July 18-24 edition of The Connection. This opinion article says that we should all celebrate now that Obamacare has been upheld by the Supreme Court as a tax.
Caring for Crabs
One evening my mom, my sister Rose and I were walking on the boardwalk at the beach and we saw a lot of people walking past us with interesting pets. We asked one person where they got it and they said at the store farther down the boardwalk.
Top 100: Sarah Spring, The Vault Queen
The 1999 Lake Braddock graduate won three straight state titles in vault competition.
Sarah Spring, 1999 graduate and gymnast from Lake Braddock, is remembered by a number — the number 10.
Friday, July 20
Local Real Estate: Sold in May 2012, $650,000~$699,999
Local Real Estate: Sold in May 2012, $650,000~$699,999
Potomac Real Estate: Sales in May 2012, $1 million to $1.199 million
In May 2012, 62 Potomac homes sold between $2,525,000-$254,000.
Potomac Real Estate: Sales in May 2012, $1 million to $1.199 million
Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 116 homes sold between $1,566,500-$180,000
Vienna, Oakton Home Sales in June, 2012
Springfield Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 205 Springfield homes sold between $805,000-$125,000.
Springfield Home Sales in June, 2012
Reston Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 117 Reston homes sold between $1,140,000-$130,450.
Reston Home Sales in June, 2012
Potomac Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 56 Potomac homes sold between $2,910,000-$475,000.
Potomac Home Sales in June, 2012
Mount Vernon Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 141 homes sold between $2,230,000-$73,000 in the Mount Vernon area.
Mount Vernon Home Sales in June, 2012
McLean Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 137 homes sold between $3,250,000-$210,000 in the McLean and Falls Church area.
McLean Home Sales in June, 2012
Oak Hill, Herndon Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 109 homes sold between $1,307,000-$118,500 in the Herndon and Oak Hill area.
Oak Hill, Herndon Home Sales in June, 2012
Great Falls Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 25 Great Falls homes sold between $1,806,000-$540,000.
Great Falls Home Sales in June, 2012
Fairfax Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 111 Fairfax homes sold between $1,145,000-$135,000.
Fairfax Home Sales in June, 2012
Centreville Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 97 Centreville homes sold between $1,500,000-$132,000.
Centreville Home Sales in June, 2012
Chantilly Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 20 homes sold between $740,000-$155,000 in the Chantilly area.
Chantilly Home Sales in June, 2012
Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 93 homes sold between $1,225,000-$135,000 in the Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton area.
Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton Home Sales in June, 2012
Burke Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 82 Burke homes sold between $1,060,000-$215,000.
Burke Home Sales in June, 2012
Arlington Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 343 Arlington homes sold between $4,000,000-$54,000.
Arlington Home Sales in June, 2012
Heading to States
West Springfield Little League 9-10 American All-Stars Head to States.
West Springfield Little League American All-Stars win district title.
Pedaling with Pals
Potomac Pedalers provides group rides for area cyclists.
Cyclists of all ages and ability levels can participate in group rides with the Potomac Pedalers.
TC Football Players Put in Work on ‘Green’ Day
Titans polish individual skills during offseason practice.
TC football coaches and players took part in their first of seven "green" practices on July 10 at Parker-Gray Stadium. "Green" days are part of the Virginia High School League’s offseason policy passed last season which allows coaches and players to work together in a non-team-oriented fashion
Fairfax Station Swims Past Fairfax
Area Swimming Report
Fairfax Station, Hunt Valley, Little Rocky Run, Burke Station win.
Alexandria Sports Briefs: Chinquapin Swimmer Breaks 34-year-old League Record
Ronan Lauinger breaks CSL's 25-yard breaststroke record.
Verbanic Named Flint Hill School Football Coach
Tom Verbanic is the new head football coach at Flint Hill.
Otters Dominate at Swim Meet
The Oakton Otters dive team defeated Tuckahoe.
As Temperatures Rise, RSTA Swimmers Heat Up
Five more pool records set.
Five pool records set in hot weather.
Title IX Marks 40 Years (Potomac)
Area coaches reflect on the law’s impact and societal changes.
Title IX's impact is felt 40 years later.
DCCL Defeats International Country Club
The RiverBend StingRays defeated International Country Club, 326.5-189.5.
The Langley Club Takes Waynewood on a Wild Ride
The Langley Wildthings swim team defeated the Waynewood Dolphins, 221-199.
McLean Beats Highlands Swim
The McLean swim team defeated Highlands Swim, 246-174 on July 7.
Chesterbrook Wins with Dominant Performance
Chesterbrook defeated Vienna Woods, 323-97 on July 7.
Title IX Marks 40 Years
Local coaches reflect on the law’s impact and societal changes.
Title IX's impact is felt 40 years later.
Arlington Swim Briefs: WGCC Swim Team Dominates Congressional
The WGCC swim team defeated Congressional, 300-142.
Thursday, July 19
Suspended Prison Sentence for Centreville Man
Former Robinson band director must register as sex offender.
When Michael Keith Cook was sentenced last week for computer solicitation of a child under age 15, he didn’t lose his freedom. But even before he set foot in the courtroom, he’d already lost something precious to him — his career as a school band director.
Centre View Business Notes 7/18/12
Centre View Business Notes
‘The Music Is Infectious’
Alliance Theatre presents “Legally Blonde, the Musical.”
Scott Olson has been a director and actor for 20 years, but he says the cast of The Alliance Theatre’s “Legally Blonde, the Musical” is something special.
‘I Like the Kind Of Man He Is’
Residents flock to Centreville High to hear President Obama speak.
They came, they waited and, more than three hours later, they entered Centreville High’s gym. Hundreds and hundreds of people from the local community, as well as from Loudoun and Prince William counties, stood in humid, 96-degree heat Saturday afternoon, July 15, to see President Barack Obama in person and hear him speak at a grassroots campaign rally.
Letter: Turn-around Expert Needed
Opinions on Mitt Romney
Centre View Entertainment Calendar 7/18/12
Centre View Entertainment Calendar
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
July 19-26.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Weekly Entertainment (Vienna/McLean/Great Falls)
July 19-26.
Entertainment in Vienna/McLean/Great Falls.
Centre View Roundups 7/18/12
Centre View Roundups
Developer Moves Forward with Plans to Redevelop Waterfront Property
Carr Hospitality seeks approval for concept even though zoning has yet to be approved.
One of the ghosts haunting the Alexandria waterfront is Samuel Cummings, international arms dealer who owned a warehouse now at the center of a controversial redevelopment proposal.
Reclusive Former Sheriff Dies; Mystery of His Wife’s Murder Remains Unsolved
After years on the public stage, Jim Dunning withdrew after the death of his wife.
James Herbert Dunning, the once popular sheriff who became increasingly reclusive after the mysterious 2003 murder of his wife, died last week at his home in Hilton Head, S.C.
Inaction May Cause Federal Officials to Create Health-Care Exchange for Virginia
January 2013 is the deadline for the commonwealth to create authority for exchange.
Virginia is suffering from deadline fever, although Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell is calling for a second opinion.
Business Matters
One of the most distinctive buildings on the waterfront is about to be gutted and renovated.
Week in Alexandria
As the race to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Democratic Sen. Jim Webb heads into the long hot political summer season, both candidates are trying to capture the attention of Northern Virginia voters.
Wednesday, July 18
Alexandria Home Sales: June, 2012
In June 2012, 245 Alexandria homes sold between $2,900,000-$90,000.
Alexandria Home Sales in June, 2012
One Fatality in Multi-Vehicle Crash in Lorton
Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on Tuesday, July 17, shortly after 10:30 a.m. near the intersection of Lorton Road and the I95 south exit ramp.
Workhouse Arts Center: 2012 Clifton Film Fest
The top films from the 2012 Clifton Film Fest will be unveiled at the Workhouse Arts Center on Saturday, July 21. This is the fourth year for the Clifton Film Fest. It is a Northern Virginia film festival showcasing entertaining, original films made by those in the surrounding community to the Workhouse in Lorton, Virginia.
Art Out Loud 2012
While a large portion of the community was daunted by the heat on Saturday, those that did show up to Art Out Loud at the Lorton Workhouse were met with the creative styles of Mary Gallagher Stout and John Gascot.
Are We Really Happy?
GMU Provost Peter N. Stearns publishes book about modern times and happiness.
"Satisfaction Not Guaranteed" is the title of a recently published book by local scholar, Peter N. Stearns, the George Mason University Provost. The book sifts through a question that some people may pose to themselves, "but are we really happy?"
Manager, 7 Players Represent Aces on All-Star Roster
The Alexandria Aces had seven players named to the Cal Ripken Collegiate Baseball League all-star game, which was held July 11 at Shirley Povich Field in Bethesda. The Aces played for the American League All-Stars, who were led by Aces manager Corey Haines.
Our Daily Bread Seeks Donations for "Back To School" Program
Fairfax-based charity Our Daily Bread (ODB) is seeking donations from the community to provide school supplies to needy children who attend school in the Fairfax County area as part of its Collect for Kids Back to School Program.
Moon Landing Remembered
Former NASA engineer recalls first lunar landing with pride.
Bob Cromwell, a former metallurgical engineer for the Apollo Program Office at NASA headquarters, remembers the reactions of his colleagues after the first lunar landing which occurred almost 43 years ago on July 20, 1969.
Rowers Begin 4th Week of Summer Crew
The 2012 Alexandria Summer Crew Program entered its fourth week of classes and training sessions this past Monday with nearly 130 rowers taking to the water at the Dee Campbell Boathouse in Old Town.
Peak Performance VA Members Compete at Nationals
At the end of June, 13 members of the Peak Performance VA taekwondo team traveled to Dallas and Ft. Lauderdale to compete at two national championships, one under USAT and the other, AAU. These are two major organizations for amateur sports in the U.S.
Sequoia Farms Has a Busy Week
Well, if you needed something to do this week and you were a member of the Sequoia Farms swim team, you certainly were in luck. There was the “IM Tough” meet on Monday, the “Tri-Meet” on Wednesday, the “Dual Meet” on Saturday, then the “Relay Carnival” on Sunday. Or, as many families in Northern Virginia might say during this time of year, “it was all swimming — all the time.”
Franklin Glen Swim Team Maintains Winning Record
The Franklin Glen Gators swim team continued its winning ways last Saturday with a victory over Armfield Farms. The 3-1 Gators moved up to the White Division this year in the Colonial Swim League after an undefeated season in the Blue Division. In addition to some impressive wins, there have been several pool records broken.
Winning Gold at Senior Games
Greenspring resident wins three medals in track & field events at the Virginia Senior Games.
Greenspring resident Dr. Dick Ernst is no stranger to local, state, and national senior games; he first attended the National Senior Games in 1999 held in Orlando, Fla. as a member of a seniors’ basketball team.
Sully Station SSTs Improving Individual Times
The Sully Station SSTs endured some tough competition Saturday, July 14 as the Langley Wild Things stole the show, beating the SSTs, 231-189. Despite the loss, the SSTs persevered, winning 17 individual events, five relays, racking up points with 38 swimmers reaching second- and third-place finishes and 40 swimmers achieving personal-best marks.
Arlington Orange line Events 7/18/12
Orangle Line Events
Right on Target
93-year-old Greenspring resident wins gold at Virginia Senior Games.
Not long after "The Hunger Games" blockbuster created a buzz around the sport of archery, Greenspring resident Charlie Edwards shot for gold at the Virginia Senior Games in May.
Suspended Prison Sentence for Former Band Director
Former Robinson band director must register as sex offender.
When Michael Keith Cook was sentenced last week for computer solicitation of a child under age 15, he didn’t lose his freedom. But even before he set foot in the courtroom, he’d already lost something precious to him – his career as a school band director.
Assuring Safe Passage
Crossing guard Gaela Hime receives Best of Braddock Award for 27 Years of Safe Passage.
When Gaela Hime started out as a crossing guard, 27 years ago, or "back in the day," crossing guards had to wear skirts and high heels.
Arlington Calendar 7/18/12
Arlington Calendar
Honoring Best of Braddock
Eight honored for volunteer service at Annual Best of Braddock Awards Ceremony.
Braddock District Council of Community Associations and Braddock District Supervisor John Cook presented the Best of Braddock Awards Wednesday night, July 11.
Arlington Bulletin Board 7/18/12
Bulletin Board Notes
‘The Healthy Gourmet’
Rosenberg teaches healthy can be tasty.
“Cooking is such a wonderful way to show people that you care and love them — and I want to be a part of it.” These were words written in a letter to “The Healthy Gourmet” Sheila Rosenberg of Potomac.
“Flourishing After 55”
Senior Events
Choose Different Location
To the Editor:
Mount Vernon Bulletin Board 7/18/12
Bulletin Board Events
‘I Like the Kind of Man He Is’
Residents flock to Centreville High to hear president Obama speak.
They came, they waited and, more than three hours later, they entered Centreville High’s gym. Hundreds and hundreds of people from the local community, as well as from Loudoun and Prince William counties, stood in humid, 96-degree heat Saturday afternoon, July 15, to see President Barack Obama in person and hear him speak at a grassroots campaign rally.
New Arrivals
Orchard Country Produce
Potomac Business Notes 7/18/12
Potomac Business Notes
Partisan Games on Healthcare Hurt Mt. Vernon-Lee Community
Commentary
Everyone deserves the security of good healthcare and reliable insurance. Americans have chosen a mixed system of public and private health insurance. We have Medicare for the elderly, military health care for our active duty and veterans, and Medicaid, a federal-state program that insures many disabled, low-income, and elderly people, especially people needing long-term care.
Marshall Named To Head UCM
“I like to be part of the greater good that is going on.”
Adventuresome, compassionate and fond of a challenge, Shirley Marshall has stepped forward to lead United Community Ministries as it struggles to find adequate funding during the recession and while the numbers of the poor continue to grow.
Alexandria Business Notes
The Alexandria/Arlington Resource Recovery Facility located in Alexandria, has been named the 2011 Large WTE (Waste-to-Energy) Facility of the Year in the combustion category by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in recognition of its strong environmental and safety performance record.
Potomac Real Estate Notes 7/18/12
Real Estate Notes
Virginia Local Cigarette Taxes
The Virginia state tax on cigarettes is $3 per carton, or 30 cents per pack, making Virginia cigarettes some of the cheapest in the country. Jurisdictions in the Virginia also affix a local tax, with rates that can vary widely.
Inova Hospitals Short on Blood Supply
Inova Blood Donor Services, which supplies blood to 15 hospitals throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., has issued a call for all eligible blood donors to donate as soon as possible due to a low inventory of blood supply.
Honoring Rising Hope
Mission leads the way for Methodist congregations.
Two recent awards and several other encouraging developments suggest that Rising Hope Mission Church is becoming a rejuvenating trendsetter for Virginia Methodist churches.
Neighborhoods-Old Town
Old Town
Sears offers a helping hand
To the Editor:
Neighborhoods
Taylor Run
Week in Reston
Reston Museum Presents Program on Civil War.
As part of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War (Sesquicentennial), the Reston Historic Trust and the Reston Museum are exploring early history Reston. The Reston Museum is producing another free program, to be presented on Thursday, July 26, 7- 9 p.m., at the Jo Ann Rose Gallery at Reston Community Center - Lake Anne, 1609 Washington Plaza in Reston.
Bare Shelves at UCM’s Food Pantry
Food and monetary donations needed.
The high winds and heavy rains of June’s derecho that assailed the area leaving thousands without electricity for seemingly endless days also impacted the United Community Ministries food pantry, though the building itself maintained power.
Everything Sells If Priced Properly
Home sales are hot in Reston, expert says.
This is an abbreviated look at the Reston real estate market.
Letter: Boards, Commissions and Power Politics
To the Editor: The city’s boards and commissions have grown to total 76 and were mostly established in the 1980s.
Letter: Hold off Review of Hotel Proposal
The following letter was addressed to the Board of Architectural Review for the Old and Historic Alexandria District.
Letter: Carrying of Firearms
Letter to the Editor
The editorial "New Laws, Assault on Freedom?" in the July 4-10 edition of the Reston Connection raises a serious concern for public safety in this election year. I have served as an election officer at my precinct for a decade without incident.
Column: The Weather is Changing
Politicians speaking at outdoor events on a pretty day invariably and jokingly take credit for the weather. But no one has stepped up to take credit for the weather lately. Records are being broken; new highs are being set.
Alexandria Citizens Band Celebrates 100 Years
The Alexandria Citizens’ Swing Band took the stage and performed at Market Square on Friday, July 13.
This Week in Potomac
County Launches ‘Small Business Plus!’
Through a collaboration between Montgomery County and community banks headquartered in the County, “Small Business Plus!” was developed to promote job growth through small business lending and earn a competitive rate of return for the county on its investment.
5-Year Crime Reduction
Montgomery County Police reported that for the fifth year in a row, crime has decreased. Based on statistics from 2007 through 2011, there has been an 18.8 percent decrease in total crime over the past 5 years.
Golf Marathon for a Cause
Hidden Creek Golf pro to play a Marathon Golf Session in support of wounded veterans.
Hidden Creek golf pro, Josh Marr, plans to play 15 hours of golf Monday, July 23 for a good cause. Marr will start at Hole 1 on the Hidden Creek course around 5 a.m. and will play the course all day until dark. In 15 hours, Marr thinks he can play 125 holes of golf.
Surviving Big Box Businesses
Chamber hosts small business seminar.
Marc Willson, a consultant with 40 years of small business owner and consulting experience, addressed how to compete with “big box” companies at Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce-hosted seminar on July 17.
Police Launch New Website
The Montgomery County Police Department has created a new police website, www.myMCPnews.com, to provide timely and accurate information to everyone in Montgomery County.
Potomac Bulletin Board 7/18/12
Potomac Bulletin Board Events
Fund Supports School Library
More than 800 books purchased in memory of former principal.
Woodley Hills Elementary School held a private book dedication ceremony on June 11 in memory of the late Dr. Joan Freck, the school’s principal from 1985-1991. Prior to her death she had made it known to her family that, in lieu of flowers, she wished to have friends and family members make donations to her “beloved Woodley Hills.”
U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants perform July 12 at Glen Echo Park for the summer concert series
Several of the U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants perform during the July 12 performance at Glen Echo Park.
Cooking Up a Safer Home
Carmen’s* home often smells of the wonderful flavor of beef, rice, and beans as she cooks her favorite El Salvadorian meal for her family.
Herndon Festival Voted #1 Festival for Families
FAMILY Magazine’s Best for Families Readers’ Choice 2012 survey named the Herndon Festival as the "Best of the Best" in the category of Best Festival or Celebration for Families again this year.
Herndon Optometrist Receives Award
Thomas P. Finley, OD, owner of Dr. Finley’s Family Eyecare, was recently recognized by the Virginia Optometric Association with the 2012 Distinguished Achievement Award.
Bookies and Bettors — and the Rising of Casinos
I was never any good at pitching pennies. I’ve never had any success at the few times I deigned to play the lottery.
Column: Circumstances Be Damned
If only it were as easy to actually live it as it is to write it. As much as I believe what I write, it’s still difficult to ignore certain facts (“the underlying diagnosis,” as I often refer to my diagnosis) and the feelings associated with it.
Please Work Together
Judge rejects county’s filing to dismiss Brickyard Coalition complaint.
Like a parent, Circuit Court Judge Ronald B. Rubin intervened. “Don’t delete it, don’t destroy it. We will fight about it … but please do it,” said Judge Rubin. “County, please try to get this done, please,” he said.
Virginia Educators Acquire New History-Teaching Skills
Pamela Clark, a Resource Teacher for the Gifted at Randolph and Campbell Elementary Schools in Arlington County and 15 other educators from Virginia, North Carolina and Maryland will bring to their classrooms new knowledge and experience gained during the 2012 Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation Summer Teacher Institute.
New Arrivals at Orchard County Produce
Produce and baked goods from Orchard Country farm are available for sale in the parking lot of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
Letter: Fame Rather Than Shame
Opinions on creation of MSI Soccer Complex on Nick's Organic Farm
Letter: Choose Different Location
Opinions on the decimation of Nick's Organic Farm
Fairfax County, VDOT File Suit Against EPA
New EPA rules will impact homeowners, developers and could cost taxpayers nearly $500 million.
Fairfax County and the state of Virginia filed a federal lawsuit Thursday, July 12, challenging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new storm water regulations for the Accotink watershed, claiming the agency’s requirements are costly, onerous and vastly exceed its legal authority.
Letter: Frustration with PEPCO Motivates
Opinions on PEPCO Motivates
Art Gallery of Potomac Relocates within Potomac Village
New site improves display.
The Art Gallery of Potomac has a new home. The gallery has relocated just minutes away from its space in the former “Surrey” building to next to Big Wheel Bikes at the end of the Potomac Village shopping center, behind the Verizon store.
President Comes to the Area
Obama rallies his supporters during the campaign stop at Centreville High.
Before President Barack Obama addressed the huge crowd inside Centreville High, Saturday afternoon, Jerry Foltz of Wellspring United Church of Christ gave the invocation.
Royalette Dance Team Brings Home Awards
The 2012-2013 Royalette Dance Team from Bishop O’Connell High School just returned from the Universal Dance Association Camp at the University of Maryland - Baltimore County with trophies, ribbons and valuable team experiences.
Makara Selected as Torpedo Factory Artist of Year
Her solo exhibition, “Masks,” at Target Gallery.
Veteran Torpedo Factory artist Susan Makara was honored on Thursday, July 12, with an official award ceremony as the 2012 Artist of the Year.
Herrity, Hugo Respond to Obama’s Visit
Both Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield) and Del. Tim Hugo (R-40) held a joint press conference Saturday afternoon, speaking to local Romney supporters prior to President Obama’s campaign rally at Centreville High. Said Herrity: "It was nice to see so many people from Little Rocky Run stop by and pick up Romney signs and stand with us."
Legacy x 3: Pat Barron, Nancy Reinke, and Marian Van Landingham Art Sale
Sale of Artwork by Renowned Art League Artists Kicks Off 30-Something Summer Series
As kick-off event for the "30-Something" Summer Series, artwork by renowned artists Pat Barron, Nancy Reinke, and Marian Van Landingham will be for sale July 19-21 at The Art League Gallery, with proceeds going to our Madison Annex Build-Out Project.
Businessman, Philanthropist, Inventor — and Knight
An interview with Potomac’s Sir Charles Dahan.
In the midst of Potomac lives a knight — and that knight is also known as the “Johnny Appleseed” of Morocco.
Two $100,000 wins in three months for Arlington man
He wins twice in Virginia Lottery Cash 5 game
When Joseph Sylvester of Arlington matched all five numbers in the July 3 Cash 5 night drawing, he thought, “Gotta get my picture taken again.”
Finn Named New Director of ACPS Educational Facilities
Retired Navy Capt. William E. Finn has been appointed as the new educational facilities director for Alexandria City Public Schools effective July 1.
Obituary: Marian E. Nowland
Marian E. Nowland, 81, died on July 5, 2012.
Stained Glass Window Designer Celebrated at St. Paul’s
On Sunday, July 25, after the 10 a.m. service at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on South Pitt Street, a reception was held honoring renowned executor of stained glass windows, Rowan LeCompte.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society Celebrates 20 Years
The members of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society hosted an ice cream social on June 24 in the assembly room at the tavern museum before adjourning to the ballroom for the annual meeting and election of new board members.
TACT presents June Havoc’s ‘Marathon ’33’
The American Century Theater will present June Havoc’s Marathon ’33, July 27 – Aug. 25, 2012 at Gunston Theatre II in Arlington. TACT Artistic Director Jack Marshall is the show’s director, and Tom Fuller is the musical director.
Special Delivery
Meals on Wheels expands to Saturday delivery.
It's a labor of love for Nancy and Buzzie Harris, who for the last year and a half have been delivering Meals on Wheels to homebound seniors as volunteers for Senior Services of Alexandria.
The Smoking Trail
New cigarette trafficking law aids enforcement.
Virginia has long been known as a tobacco-friendly state. Tobacco was one of the first major commercial products for New World European settlers, and the state remains one of the largest producers today. Virginia is also home to some of the cheapest cigarettes in the country.
Alexandria Food and Drink
Occasionally Cake is celebrating its three-year anniversary and handing out one free cupcake per person to all of its patrons.
Mount Olivet Relives War between States
Reenactors from both the North and the South camped out in the small park beyond the entrance to Mount Olivet’s Church on North 16th Street in Arlington on Sunday, July 15. Members of the Confederate troops of the Army of Northern Virginia set up camp along with Union troops.
Classified Advertising (July 18, 2012)
Read the latest Classifieds, Employment and Home and Garden ads!
Songwriter Performs Hometown Show
A.J. Smith performs with band at Lake Anne.
A few months ago, AJ Smith, a junior at NYU got an email from a professor asking him to stop by his office. As a student studying Music Composition, the Herndon native thought it might be some news about his songwriting workshop.
Moore Promoted to Lieutenant
Twelve-year veteran will serve as assistant support services commander.
Herndon police officer James Moore was promoted to lieutenant Monday, July 16. The 12-year veteran of the force will assume duties as assistant support services commander, where he will supervise criminal investigations, public information and crime prevention.
Garden Grows at Cedar Point
Apartment complex is site of newest community garden plot.
Reston’s garden plots have always been one of the community’s most popular features, with one exception. Years ago, Cedar Ridge was the fifth garden plot created, but it never caught on in the community located next to Forest Edge Elementary School.
Feds Feed Families Kicks Off at USGS
Reps. Wolf, Connolly host opening of food bank support program.
Many local food banks go for an extra push around the holiday season, trying to help the area’s less fortunate make it through the end of the year with extra food, maybe even a few gifts. But that changes during the summer, with schools out and people on vacation, food banks can find their supplies dwindling, even when the demand does not.
Fireworks Go Off at Turner Farm
Annual show was postponed from July 4.
While going a week without power meant no video games or television for Jeremie Johnson, 7, of Great Falls, it did some with one perk.
Senior Center Hosts Inaugural Event
Great Falls UMC hosts history presentation, vocal performance for local seniors.
The Great Falls Senior Center hosted its first event Tuesday, July 10 at the Great Falls United Methodist Church. The first iteration in the community using the center-without-walls concept (where local buildings host events on a rotating basis in lieu of a specifically designated building) featured a historical presentation, lunch and a performance by mezzo-soprano Heather Craw of Vienna.
Tuesday, July 17
1st Stage Focuses on First Opportunities
Tysons Corner theater looks to become ‘new theater for new city.’
Members of the Marshall High School community, two teachers and five former students, created 1st Stage Theatre in 2008 in Tysons Corner with an eye on the future. They opened just as the first concrete for the new Tysons Metrorail was being poured, but also at the start of the economic recession.
In Search of a ‘Forever Home’
Humane Society of Fairfax working for animal and human welfare.
Look up Petfinder.com on your Internet browser page. It’s a site where animal welfare groups can promote animals they have available for adoption. Type in a town or zip code. Let’s use Alexandria as an example. Check "Cat" for "Type of Animal." Hit "Search."
Childhood Hobbies: Finding the Right Fit
Experts offer suggestions for choosing extracurricular activities for the fall.
While many are still basking in the lazy days of summer, Anna Faust is planning her 5-year-old son’s after-school activity schedule for the fall.
Editorial: Leaving Millions on the Table
Virginia should embrace opportunity for more health care coverage for poor residents.
Chances are that if you are reading this, you have employer-provided health insurance. While you might worry about the young adults in your family or the lower wage workers in your organization, you also know that if you are sick, you can go to the doctor.
Letter: Making Care Affordable
Letter to the Editor
Many people have personal reasons for being glad that the Supreme Court has upheld President Obama’s Affordable Care Act, and for hoping that his opponents will not be able to repeal it.
Letter: A ‘Key Reason’ Overlooked
I was disappointed in Mr. Horrock's commentary on the Silver Line [Silver Line Gets ‘Green Light’ The Connection, July 11-17, 2012].
Markers Dedicated at Oakton Schoolhouse
Cooperative effort between Hunter Mill Defense League and County produces interpretive panels.
In 2007, a group of Oakton-area community supporters, along with Chevy Chase Bank and the owners of Appalachian Outfitters, saved the historic Oakton schoolhouse from demolition. With funding from Chevy Chase, the building that once stood on the corner of Hunter Mill Road and Rt. 123 was moved to its current location on Hunter Mill Road, just a few hundred yards from where it originally stood.
Caffe Amouri Celebrates 2nd Birthday
Coffeehouse offered free hot dogs, live music throughout day.
Caffe Amouri turned two and the coffeehouse threw a party for the community out front on July 14 to say "thanks" for its support. And the community returned the thanks with their presence.
Helping Neighbors in Need
Throughout the month of June. Dixon Hughes Goodman of Tysons Corner paired up with Food for Others, a Fairfax based nonprofit organization and the largest distributor of food to those in need in Northern Virginia, for a canned food drive to help fight hunger in Metro DC area.
Week in McLean
McLean news.
McLean Rotary Club Installs New Officers
On July 11 the Rotary Club of McLean installed officers for the 2012-2013 fiscal year: Jan Auerbach--President, Mike Holleran--Vice-President, Dale Lazar--President-Elect, Lynn Heinrichs-- Treasurer, and Paul Sawtell--Secretary.
Dr. Kitay Joins PartnerMD’s McLean Practice
PartnerMD, a subsidiary of Markel Ventures of Richmond, announces the addition of a new doctor to its McLean practice. Dr. Kaleen Kitay, formerly of Prosperity Internal Medicine, will join PartnerMD on Aug. 1.
A Roadmap for the Inner Self
McLean author celebrates one year of ‘Unveiling the Inner Journey.’
McLean resident and author, Alianna Maren, is celebrating an anniversary. This month marks one year since her groundbreaking book, "Unveiling: the Inner Journey," was published. And she is inviting all of McLean to join the celebration.
Winning at Great Falls Farmers Market
Getting to know Farmers Market vendors: An All-Vendor Market Basket.
We all had a pretty rough first week of July with the huge storm on Friday night June 30, leaving tree parts strewn over most roadways throughout Great Falls, downing our power lines.
L’Auberge Chez Francois Grows a Garden, a Brasserie
Great Falls culinary icon integrates nature and heritage in classic French cuisine.
Washington’s iconic culinary destination, L’Auberge Chez Francois, is as much a cultural experience as it is a dining venue.
So You Want To Act?
Tips from local actors.
One of the hardest things about starting any career is getting that first job. It’s no different with acting.
Strayer Honors Medina as Outstanding Alumna
Acknowledging the value of college degree for non-traditional students.
Long-time Alexandria resident Kathryn Medina is among the 40 percent of college students who are considered non-traditional — those who’ve gone back to school after employment.
‘Champion of Change’
Campagna Center’s Joy Trejo is among those honored at White House.
The White House’s “Champions of Change” highlights a different sector of educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who are working to serve and strengthen their communities each week.
City Gallery “Call for Artists” Deadline
The Office of the Arts, in partnership with the Alexandria Commission for the Arts is putting out a “call for artists” for area visual artists to submit their work for display in the City’s galleries.
City of Alexandria Hosts 9th Annual Comcast Outdoor Film Festival
The City of Alexandria will host the ninth Annual Comcast Outdoor Film Festival on Friday, July 13 and Saturday, July 14 at Waterfront Park, 1A Prince St. Movies begin at approximately 8:30 p.m. (at dusk). Admission is free.
Mount Vernon Bulletin Board 7/11/12
Bulletin Board Events
Regulars at the White House
Local musicians perform for presidents and their guests.
About a dozen times a year, Chris McFarlane and Mark Questad, both of Mount Vernon, don their special full dress U.S. Marines uniform, pick up their musical instruments and head to an address in Washington that most will only visit once in a lifetime as a tourist: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Council Backs Full Restoration
Also supports retention of marina concession and mooring field.
The Mount Vernon Council of Citizens Associations approved a resolution supporting the National Park Service’s recommendation for full restoration of Dyke Marsh wetlands.
Public Comment Sought On Westgrove Park
Commission plans July 30 meeting.
A public information meeting will be held on the Westgrove Park Master Plan on July 30 to collect citizen comments to help shape the draft master plan
Route 1 Widening: Wait for Transit Study?
Flanagan proposes county review of transit options affecting Woodlawn Historical District.
Following the Federal Highway Administration’s June 5 public meeting on widening options for Route 1, another twist may further complicate approval for the best approach to widen Route 1 in the Woodlawn Historical District.
Dragon Training at Walmart
Through the early heat of Saturday morning, July 7, Sig, the Viking dragon trainer, arrived at Walmart with a baby naddar dragon.
Obituary: Frank M. Somerville
Frank M. Somerville, 65, died July 6, 2012 in Little River, S.C.
MV School Notes: 7/11/12
School Notes
Monday, July 16
Losing 911
DPSC director discusses power-outage response.
When hurricane-force winds slammed into the local area two weeks ago, they felled trees and power lines and knocked out electricity to more than 1 million residents in Northern Virginia. Verizon supplied electricity and phone service to many of them, including Fairfax County’s Department of Public Safety Communications (DPSC).
‘Anything Goes’ in This Production
Westfield Summer Stage presents musical.
When Lori Knickerbocker and Yvonne Henry saw the Broadway revival of the musical, “Anything Goes,” they realized it would be perfect for Westfield Summer Stage. And now, Knickerbocker’s directing and Henry’s choreographing this show for local audiences.
Centre View Entertainment Calendar 7/11/12
Center View Entertainment Calendar
Responding to Underwater Scenario
“911. What’s your emergency?” “I just saw a guy’s boat sink in the reservoir, I think he went under with it.” This fictional 911 call describes the scenario for a joint training exercise between the Fairfax County Underwater Search and Recovery Team, the Fairfax County Police Marine Patrol Unit and the Prince William County Police Underwater Search and Recovery Unit that took place on June 13 in the Occoquan Reservoir near Fountainhead Regional Park
Epic Einsteins Take Second in State
Greenbriar West sixth grade students Saiteja Bevara, Dheeraj Bandaru and Ajith Kanuri and team advisor Padmaja Bevara participated and won second place in the state level competition of the Army's eCybermission project. eCybermission is a web-based Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) competition for students in grades six through nine.
Scholarship Awards
On June 11, Scholarship Committee Chair Dr. Joyce Brotton of the Western Fairfax County Woman’s Club presented Chantilly High School seniors with a $2,000 college scholarship.
Lucas, Somerville Engaged
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lucas of Centreville are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter, Lindsay Ayers Lucas to Matthew Christopher ("Chris") Somerville, son of George and Susan Somerville of Richmond.
Centre View Roundups 7/11/12
Centre View Roundups
Friday, July 13
Potomac Real Estate: Top Sales in May 2012
In May 2012, 62 Potomac homes sold between $2,525,000-$254,000.
Potomac Real Estate: Top Sales in May 2012
Local Real Estate: May 2012 Top Sales in Great Falls, McLean, Reston, Herndon, Oakton and Vienna
Local Real Estate: May 2012 Top Sales in Great Falls, McLean, Reston, Herndon, Oakton and Vienna
Thursday, July 12
Four Runners Shine at Hershey Meet
Arlington’s best runners proved to be Virginia’s best, too, as four local runners claimed the top prize at the Hershey Track & Field Virginia State meet held in Charlottesville on June 16.
Military Matters
American Legion hosts Kaine forum to address veterans issues.
Former Virginia governor and Democratic candidate for senate Tim Kaine met with veterans and active duty military members of American Legion Post 24 in Alexandria July 9 in a roundtable discussion focusing on unemployment and other issues facing service members and their families.
Wednesday, July 11
Freedmen’s Cemetery Statue Proposals on Display
Three proposals for statues to be added to the Contrabands’ and Freedmen’s Cemetery will be on display for public comment at the Durant Arts Center at 1605 Cameron Street until Aug. 6.
Restoring Power
Dominion and city’s strategy set priorities.
More than a million people were left powerless in northern Virginia after the Friday thunderstorm on June 29.
Students Work To Save Winkler Botanical Preserve
It’s been several years since the students in Mary Breslin’s seventh grade Science class first set foot in Winkler Botanical Preserve, and they haven’t been able to stay away since.
Unsung Heroes Honored
On the same Thursday morning that the U.S. Supreme Court made its momentous decision to let the Affordable Care Act stand, the Virginia Health Care Foundation was meeting in Richmond to honor heroes in health care and to celebrate the success of an effort to meet two goals of that act, to provide preventive care and primary health care to individuals who have not been able to receive it.
Soft Shell Crabs vs. Hot Dogs
I was introduced to soft shell crabs by a Greek restaurateur. I’ve thanked him ever since.
Hospital’s Stroke Treatment Exceeds National Guidelines
Not much keeps Peggy Kennedy down. In her six years on the job at an Old Town Starbucks, she’s never called in sick. A couple of Tylenol and she’s good to go. But as she worked the register on June 26, a strange feeling came over her and she had to sit down. Her perfect work attendance streak would soon be over.
Home Remodeling 101
Experts offer suggestions for a timely and efficient renovation.
Whether expanding a home or just remodeling an existing interior space, building projects can be daunting, especially if the goal is to be finished by a certain date. "If you wanted to get going on a project and your goal was to be done by Thanksgiving, the planning process and permit process is probably as long as the building process, but you don’t want to rush through those aspects of it and then wish you’d done something differently," said David Vogt of Case Design/Remodeling, Inc.
A Spiritual Journey: Yoga in Daily Life Goes to Rio+20
The eco-warriors carried signs painted with slogans. The Occupiers protested corporate excesses. Scientists, farmers, mayors, business executives, and think tanks — they all came to Rio de Janeiro for two weeks in June to participate in the Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development.
Clifton’s Old-Fashioned Fourth
The Town of Clifton celebrated the Fourth of July with a parade, flag ceremony and a potluck picnic in the park with moonbounces, tug-of-war, pie-eating and egg-toss competitions.
Week in Fairfax
News in Fairfax.
Telford in Contest to Enter Ironman
Fair Lakes resident BethAnn Telford was diagnosed with a Stage III brain tumor in 2005, and is still fighting for her life. But she works full time and, via her nonprofit fundraising organization, Team BT, she raises money for the National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS).
Practicing What They Preach
Local theater teachers perform ‘Into the Woods.’
Six drama teachers headline the cast of the City of Fairfax Theatre Company’s summer production of "Into the Woods." They include Fairfax High’s Wendy Knight and Paul Rubenstein and Woodson High’s Terri Hobson.
Update on Transforming Mt. Vernon Community School
The transformation process for Mt. Vernon Community School began in April when Superintendent of Schools Dr. Morton Sherman appointed T. C. Williams High School Executive Associate Principal Peter Balas to lead that process.
GOP Hosts ‘Super Saturday’
Republicans rally at the Fairfax Victory Office.
Record-breaking temperatures could not keep more than 100 volunteers and supporters from gathering at the Fairfax Victory Office to participate in the Republican Party’s "Super Saturday" call-to-arms on July 7 targeting a dozen battleground states, including Virginia.
Apple Federal Credit Union Launches School Supplies Drive
Apple Federal Credit Union this month launched its fifth annual Northern Virginia school supply drive, with a new pledge this year: Apple will match dollar for dollar cash contributions up to $5,000 to help ensure Fairfax County’s underprivileged children have the tools needed for academic success this fall.
Addressing the Shortfall
The culture of a people is judged, in part, by how it treats its most vulnerable.
The County is currently developing proposals to address the over $9 million shortfall in the budget for the Community Services Board (CSB).
Keeping the Pressure On
Tired of paying both City of Fairfax and Falls Church water bills, one Fairfax County man becomes a vocal water activist.
Every three months, Fairfax County resident Kirk F. Randall reluctantly writes a check to the City of Fairfax for his water bill, and fumes about it.
Letter: Obtaining Solar Panels
In light of the recent storm and power outages, I began to think more about solar power. If our home had solar panels and battery storage, we may not have been able to operate the air conditioning, but we could have run fans, had lights on, charged phones, and maybe cycled the refrigerator on a few times.
"You Will Get Wet!"
Old-Fashioned Fireman's Day competition always a hit with crowds.
Mike Savory staked out a prime spot to see one of his favorite Fourth of July events, the Old-Fashioned Fireman’s Day in historic downtown Fairfax.
Letter: Slick Marketing vs. Customer Care
Letter to the Editor
I wonder if some local supermarkets really know or care who their customers are? Picture the senior citizen or harried homemaker with toddlers at the ankles.
Bethesda’s Renfroe Is Ripken League’s Top Slugger
Mississippi native leads league in home runs, RBIs, fourth in batting average.
Bethesda Big Train slugger Hunter Renfroe leads the Cal Ripken Collegiate Baseball League in home runs and RBIs, and is fourth in batting average.
Potomac Native Wins World Series of Poker Event
Churchill graduate wins nearly $560,000.
Potomac native and 2005 Churchill graduate Cliff Goldkind won nearly $560,000 in a World Series of Poker event.
Column: A Victim of My Own Circumstances
Outliving one’s prognosis leads to all sorts of twists and turns and treatment conundrums: the longer one lives, the fewer the treatment options.
Sounds of Summer at Reston Town Center
Every Saturday, as the sun sets, Virginians come together for a different musical act at the Reston Town Center: They set up their lawn chairs and spread Tupperware picnics around the streets and sidewalks surrounding the glass domed pavilion that hosts Summer Concerts Series.
Interfaith Dialogue
Three local faith communities — Bethesda Jewish Synagogue, Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church and the Idara e-Jaferia Mosque — hosted a dialogue on Sunday, July 8, with 10 young adult leaders from Israel and Palestine who are participating in the New Story Leadership Summer Intern program.
Column: Uranium Mining in Virginia
Virginia has one of the largest deposits of uranium of anyplace in the country in Pittsylvania County in the southern part of the state. The location of Coles Hill Farm where the deposit is centered is in the Roanoke River watershed. There are smaller deposits of uranium in other parts of the state including the Piedmont region.
Column: Graduate to Lead Reston’s South Lakes High
Three weeks ago a friend at South Lakes tipped me there was going to be a ceremony the next morning to announce and introduce the school’s new principal. My friend would not tell me who the new principal was. It was a big secret!
Annual Butterfly Count Breaks Record
28 species of butterflies recorded.
Do you know the difference between a swallowtail and a monarch? How about a painted lady? Would you recognize these types of butterflies?
Potomac’s Sir Charles Dahan – Businessman, Philanthropist, Inventor- And Even A Knight
In the midst of Potomac lives a knight — and that knight is also known as the “Johnny Appleseed” of Morocco.
Letter: LINK Celebrates 40 Years of Community Service
Letter to the Editor
In 1972, five churches in Sterling and Herndon came together with the idea of delivering collected food donations directly to the homes of the needy. Members would store the food in their basement and deliver it themselves within 48 hours in order to eliminate the necessity for families to have transportation to receive food staples.
Connie Hutchinson Elected Vice Mayor
Town of Herndon Mayor Lisa C. Merkel and members of the Herndon Town Council approved a resolution naming Connie Haines Hutchinson as vice mayor for the town for the 2012-14 term.
Young Herndon Pianist Embarks on a Musical Journey
The walls of the piano studio where 10-year-old Anton Nelson of Oak Hill practices for four hours per day are lined with black and white portraits of the greats of the musical world: Beethoven, Brahms, Rachmaninoff, Chopin.
Father and Daughter ‘Ride To Cure Juvenile Diabetes’
Raising funds for research.
Lauren Rapaport has been battling juvenile diabetes for 33 years. Diagnosed at the age of 3, she has learned to regulate her insulin and check her blood sugar. She carefully balances her food intake with her exercise. It’s life-long and 24/7 — a disease that has no cure — and one that she will never outgrow.
Tomorrow’s Pros To Play in Local Tournament
American Junior Golf Association tournament coming to Bethesda Country Club.
What do Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Davis Love III, Jim Furyk, Charles Howell III, Paula Creamer and Morgan Pressel have in common? Each of these golf professionals competed in American Junior Golf Association golf tournaments as teenagers and all went on to become PGA and LPGA Tour players.
Divis Wins Watchdog Award
Dee Ann Divis, of Arlington, writer for Inside GNSS¸ a magazine that covers global navigation satellite systems, was named the winner of the Society of Professional Journalists Washington, D.C., Professional Chapter's highest journalistic award, the Robert D.G. Lewis Watchdog Award which comes with a $1,000 prize.
‘A Place of Comfort’
Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, along with the Arlington Sesquicentennial Committee and Arlington Historical Society, will host a Civil War Living History and medical display to honor the church’s use as a field hospital following the First Battle of Bull Run, or First Manassas. As Union troops fled back to Washington, D.C., in disarray after their rout on the battlefield, Mount Olivet was commandeered to treat the wounded.
On the Lookout for Eels
There’s something slimy in Arlington’s water systems. Hidden beneath the surface, slithering under sediment, and as likely to call sewers as well as streams their home is the Anguilla rostrata, or more commonly known as the American eel.
Church Hosts Death Penalty Discussion
The Journey of Hope, a group started by murder victims’ family members who oppose the death penalty, is coming to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Arlington, on Friday, June 29, 7:30-9 p.m.
Bernice King Speaks at Busboys and Poets
Daughter of civil rights icons tells her mother’s story.
Bernice King, one of the daughters of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Corretta Scott King, was at Busboys and Poets in Shirlington to discuss a biography about her mother on May 26. The book, titled “Desert Rose: The Life and Legacy of Coretta Scott King,” was written by Coretta Scott King’s only sister, Edythe Scott Bagley, who died shortly after she completed the book.
Rotary Club Installs New Board
Hugh Barton assumed the leadership of the Arlington Rotary Club on July 1, succeeding outgoing president Joe Lott.
A Girl Named Dorothea
German exchange student finds second home in Arlington
Foreign exchange student stories start slow and grind through phrases like "challenge to the world's young people" and "foster peace and understanding" and "different perspectives on the world." This story is not one of them.
Naadam Celebrates Independence
Mongolian community in Arlington celebrates Independence Day with games, food and music.
The Mongolian community in Arlington celebrated 91 years of independence from Manchurian rule on Sunday, July 8 at Barcroft Park. The celebration, known as Naadam, highlights traditional Mongolian culture through the three games of archery, horse back riding, and wrestling.
Beat Heat, Reduce Carbon Pollution
To the Editor:
Classified Advertising (July 11, 2012)
Read the latest Classifieds, Home and Garden and Employment ads!
Herndon Hosts July 4th Celebration
Live music, games, fireworks highlight events at Herndon Community Center.
The Herndon Community Center hosted its annual Fourth of July celebration last Wednesday, welcoming hundreds of local residents to the fields next to the community center for an afternoon and evening of live music and entertainment, followed by fireworks.
Herndon Environmental Network Hosts ‘Battle of Bottles’
Two neighborhoods to face off.
This month, two Herndon neighborhoods will be facing off in a "Battle of the Bottles," to see who can recycle more by weight. Hastings Hunt, located off Dranesville Road south of Leesburg Pike and McNair Farms Landbay2, located off Fox Mill Road, will do battle throughout July. The initiativ
Horse Attacked for Second Time
Lucinda, victim of earlier slashing, assaulted again over weekend.
Lucinda, a horse housed adjacent to Frying Pan Farm Park, was assaulted for the second time in the past three months sometime between the evening of Saturday, July 7 and the morning of Sunday, July 8.
Trust Presents Story of Lake Anne
Early Reston workers share experiences of town’s opening.
When Robert Simon sold Carnegie Hall in 1960 and bought the land that was to become Reston in March 1961, it was the first of many steps in the founding of the community that bears his initials. Over the next two years, Simon set about the massive task of laying out the guidelines of what he wanted Reston to be, and getting approval from Fairfax County.
Great Falls Celebrates Fourth of July
Annual run, parade, games highlight Hometown Celebration.
Margaret Johnson remembers when the large trees in the Great Falls Village Centre weren’t so large. She remembers when they were saplings, barely providing any shade for the participants in the first ever Little Patriot Parade, which was added to the Great Falls Fourth of July celebrations almost 20 years ago.
Memory Café Provides Opportunities For Care
Weekly events help connect patients, caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s and other diseases.
At age 64, Carol Blackwell’s husband Bob was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease. Carol Blackwell, a resident of Great Falls, called the diagnosis "devastating" and found what transpired to be a struggle as well.
MCC Hosts Fireworks Show
Event will be last at Langley High School.
Hundreds of local residents descended on Langley High School the night of Wednesday, July 4, to the annual Fourth of July fireworks show, hosted by the McLean Community Center.
Jackson Moves On from McLean
McLean High School Principal Dr. Deborah Jackson leaves after five years.
After five years at McLean High School, Dr. Deborah Jackson left her position as principal July 2 to take a new position within Fairfax County Public Schools. Jackson, who is a member of the McLean Rotary Club, was cited by parents and many organizations for her commitment to the school and the community surrounding it.
Tuesday, July 10
Editorial: Every Vote in Virginia Will Count
Top presidential donor zip codes in this area show Virginia is purple; Romney or Obama to be decided on Election Day.
If you wonder if presidential politics really matters in this area, consider that Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland hold some of the top zip codes for contributions to the two major party candidates.
Uke Fest Back at Lake Anne on July 14
The tranquil sounds of tiny strings will return to the Lake Anne waterfront when the 3rd Annual Ukulele Festival takes place on Saturday, July 14 from 11a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Silver Line Gets ‘Green Light’
Loudoun County Board by a 5-4 vote ‘opts in’ on extension of rail into their county.
Considering it is a hard fought presidential election year and a time of enormous financial anxiety, the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors took a vote of amazing courage or astounding foolhardiness and backed the extension of the Silver Line Rail into their county.
Kids’ Music Program Brightens Summer
Wolf Trap’s Theatre-in-the-Woods presents song, dance and puppetry.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts isn’t just for adults. Its education outreach programs feature performances for young children, from kiddie-rock music to classical ballet and global performing arts.
A $1,000 ‘Thank-you’
Bazin’s waiter gets big tip for service.
Michael Manetti wasn’t doing anything he does not normally do when serving the party of 12 at Bazin’s on Church Friday night. He says he was there when they needed him, not when they didn’t. Manetti knows when to be unobtrusive. When the party’s host signed off on the bill, Manetti got the shock of his professional career. He was given a $1,000 tip.
Vienna Celebrates with Festival, Fireworks
Music, food, kids’ activities highlight festival at Community Center.
Vienna celebrated the 4th of July in style … old-style, that is.
Vienna’s Bellini Salon & MedEsthetics Recognized
Bellini Salon & MedEsthetics of Vienna has been featured as a celebrated 2012 Spa Of The Month in Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa Magazine in their Wellness and Organic section.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms Can Help Prevent More Tragedies
To the Editor:
In Support of Job Creation
To the Editor:
Appreciation for Bulova
To the Editor:
County Board Recognizes Steve DeBenedittis
At its meeting this morning at the Fairfax Government Center, Fairfax County Board Chair Sharon Bulova and the entire Board of Supervisors recognized Herndon Mayor Steve DeBenedittis for his six years of service to the town.
LINK Provides Food, Hope
A Herndon-based nonprofit aims to deliver food to those in need.
In 1972, a group of churches in Sterling and eastern Loudoun County got together with the idea of providing food for the needy, with members storing donated food in their basement. Three years later, they made inroads into Fairfax County and it was eventually chartered as a nonprofit. Forty years later, the group consists of 17 member churches in Herndon, Sterling Chantilly and Potomac Falls and has provided tens of thousands of families with assistance.
Food & Drink
Teaism Unveils New Location
The first Teaism restaurant has opened in Alexandria. These locally-owned, Asian-inspired tea houses have been serving locals and tourists alike at three downtown locations since 1996. Originally conceived to showcase loose leaf teas from all across Asia, Teaism has refined its commitment to healthy dining in this new space. A new menu by Chef Alison Swope (New Heights, Santa Fe East, The Mark, Andale) features Okonomiyaki along with buckwheat and hempseed pancakes. Teaism serves organic meals made from scratch. Selected beers, sakes and wines – 15 different bottles–match the menu's bold Asian flavors. Teaism Old Town is located at 682 North St Asaph Street, Alexandria, and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant opens at 7:30 a.m. Monday to Friday and at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant closes at 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday evenings and at 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Obituary: Katherine Frances Smith
Katherine Frances Smith, formerly Katherine Frances Terlecky, born Sept. 22, 1945, died June 18, 2012.
Obituary: Thelma T. Thompson
Thelma T Thompson of Venice, Fla. formerly of Alexandria, died Monday, June 11, 2012.
Obituary: R. Tucker Winn
Tucker Winn, who was a Fairfax County Public School teacher for 25 years, died at Mount Vernon Hospital on June 23, 2012 of a stroke. She was 85 years old.
Who Sets Priorities?
To the Editor:
New Pastor at Messiah
Messiah Lutheran Church welcomes its new pastor, the Rev. Robert Lewis. The public is invited to meet him this Sunday July 8, at the 10 a.m. service. Messiah Lutheran Church is located at 6510 Ft. Hunt Road.
Local Delegates at DAR Convention
Members of the Mount Vernon Chapter based in Alexandria were in attendance at the 121st Continental Congress, the annual convention of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
Festival’s Success Has Organizers Looking Ahead
Aiming for more events in the Carlyle District.
Not only were the restaurants and wineries participating in the first Carlyle Food and Wine Festival on June 23 able to share their cuisine and products with local residents, they were also able to network and give back to the community as well.
New Watercolor Exhibit at River Farm
The paintings of Salon 8, a group of local watercolor artists, will be on display at the American Horticultural Society’s headquarters at River Farm through Sept. 25.
‘Alive with History’
Take a journey back in time to learn about the history of the Torpedo Factory. Bring a mask from home or make one at a Do-It-Yourself Station and wear it to the reception for Masks in the Target Gallery. Join The Art League Gallery for the reception for Genius Loci and the All-Media Membership Exhibit.
Celebrities Lead Master Classes for ACCT
The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities’ Alexandria City Community Theatre kicked off the summer programming season with Master Classes with two celebrities: Soul Food Series "Lemme" Darrin Dewitt Henson and Good Times "Thelma" Bern Nadette Stanis.
Olympic Day Celebration 2012
The spirit of Olympics was alive and thriving in the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities in June with the Olympic Day Celebration.
Paradise Endangered
To the Editor:
19th Century Vitriol
To the Editor:
Comment Sought on Field Name
The city is seeking public comment on a proposal to name the Lee Center Softball Field, located at 1108 Jefferson St., “The Kelley Cares Miracle Field.”
Board Appoints Student Liaisons
This week marked the beginning of a one-year term for two new student non-voting members of the School Board. In early June, the board voted to appoint two student liaisons, who competed for the slots through an application and interview process. Due to their credentials, Charlotte Clinger, a rising senior, and Edom Tesfa, a rising junior, were chosen from a group of nine potential student candidates to take on this major commitment.
Gorsuch Re-Elected Board Chairman
At its organizational meeting on July 2, the Alexandria School Board voted to re-elect Sheryl Gorsuch as chairman and Helen Morris as vice chairman for the remainder of 2012. The current board will serve through Dec. 31, after which members elected by City of Alexandria voters on Nov. 6 will take office.
Proposals for Freedmen’s Cemetery
The public is invited to meet the artists and view proposals for the Contrabands and Freedmen’s Cemetery sculpture on July 7 at the Durant Arts Center. The Alexandria Commission for the Arts and the Office of the Arts will host a reception from 5 - 6 p.m. at the Durant Arts Center, located at 1605 Cameron St.
Electronic Collars Not Leashworthy
The city has adopted an ordinance that excludes electronic collars and similar electronic devices as legal methods to physically restrain dogs in public. At its June 16 public hearing, the City Council voted unanimously in favor of the ordinance, which goes into effect on Sept. 1.
Monday, July 9
Guns from the South
July 1 marks lifting of 19-year restriction on hand gun purchases.
On July 1, the 19-year restriction on handgun purchases in Virginia became null and void. The measure was signed by Gov. Bob McDonnell Feb 28, and effectively allows an unlimited number of handgun purchases to individuals in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Walking Across America
On July 4, Alexandria resident Jennifer Cooper, 38, will celebrate the three-year anniversary of the start of her walk across the United States. To celebrate, she will fly from Alexandria to Wichita, Kansas, where she last left, to continue her trek to Los Angeles.
Carlyle Plaza and Alex Renew To Create ‘Green Block’
Architectural and environmental challenge leads to unique developmental project.
On June 16, city council voted 7-0 in approval of Carlyle Plaza and Alex Renew's "green block," or about 5 acres of proposed green space off of Eisenhower Avenue. The project confronts several architectural and environmental challenges to provide an open green space for the growing number of residents and workers in the Carlyle Towers area.
Letter: Questioning a ‘War on Women?’
Letter to the Editor
Recent criticisms of Barbara Comstock's position on so-called "women's issues," and the concomitant accusations of a Republican "war on women" have left me frustrated.
Powerless
Too much wind, too much heat, not enough electricity.
As of Monday morning, July 2, power returned to 11,000 locations in Alexandria, leaving 23,000 without electricity.
Legion Installs New Officers
Alexandria's Post 24 of the American Legion installed its 2012-2013 slate of officers and board members during a ceremony at the organization's headquarters in Old Town.
Market is Moving in the Right Direction
Sales in McLean, Great Falls area 8 percent over the first half of 2011.
The residential real estate market in McLean and Great Falls is definitely showing strong signs of improvement. The total number of sales for the first half 2012 is up overall a little more than 8 percent over the first half of 2011.
Week in McLean
Fundraiser for McLean Project for the Arts.
A fundraiser supporting McLean Project for the Arts has been announced by HBC Realty Groups Community Charity Champions.
Woman’s Club of McLean Installs New Officers
A ceremony was held May 30 to install the 2012-2013 officers of the Woman’s Club of McLean.
Letter: Obtaining Solar Panels
Letter to the Editor
In light of the recent storm and power outages, I began to think more about solar power. If our home had solar panels and battery storage, we may not have been able to operate the air conditioning, but we could have run fans, had lights on, charged phones, and maybe cycled the refrigerator on a few times. I also wondered why Dominion does not incentivize businesses and residences to obtain solar power systems.
Week in Great Falls
Great Falls now has its own version of the latest tasty treat craze sweeping the county: frozen yogurt. Huckleberry’s Frozen Yogurt opened its doors in th
Pushed to the Limit
Food pantries seek help for county’s most vulnerable residents.
At 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 7, it’s already 103 degrees in Reston - the 10th straight day temperatures hover near or above 100 degrees after a derecho storm swept through the region on July 29, causing extensive power outages.
9th Asian Festival Celebrating the Year of the Dragon
Festival will take place July 21-22 at GMU.
This year, the 9th Asian Food and Tennis Festival is celebrating the year of dragon. The Festival is a two-day, free admission event to promote greater understanding of the Asian countries and cultures. It will be held at the George Mason University on July 21, Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on July 22, Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. It is open to the public.
'Service Above Self'
Rotary Club contributes $92,000 to local charities.
The Rotary Club of Alexandria, in partnership with the Alexandria Day Nursery and Children's Home, continued its decades-long tradition of awarding grants to local nonprofit organizations with the presentation of $92,000 to 32 organizations at the annual Contributions Day luncheon June 12 at Belle Haven Country Club.
Civil War Camp Final Muster
Friday afternoon, June 29, the 24 campers at the annual Fort Ward Civil War Camp finished lunch in the shade of the trees and regrouped for a final field drill.
Storm Damage
Pictures of storm damage
The Coolest Places in Town
City recreation centers maintain power, air-conditioning, during heat wave and devastating storm
Many Alexandria residents remained without power over the weekend when a freak storm hit the region late Friday night, June 29.
Bailey To Speak at Lions Dinner
The Mount Evening Lions Club dinner meeting will be Tuesday, July 17, at Pema's restaurant.
Five Lessons from the Derecho of 2012
Commentary
The storm of June 29, 2012 will go down as one of the more memorable moments of Mother Nature in the Lee-Mount Vernon Area. I pulled into my drive way around 9:30 p.m. while listening to WTOP. There was no mention of a pending storm. Within an hour, the trees in my yard were wildly swinging around.
More Concerns on New Park Plans
Park officials attempt to prevent public comment.
At a public meeting June 27 presenting new alternative plans for Fort Hunt Park, residents sought to raise questions and comment but were initially denied permission by National Park Service representatives.
Formal Requests For Police Reports
Mount Vernon-area group seeks police incident reports on shooting deaths of four closed cases.
In the past several years four people have been shot and killed by Fairfax County police under what the Citizens Coalition for Police Accountability characterizes as “questionable circumstances.” Up until now no one, including the families of the deceased victims, has been able to obtain a police incident report despite the fact that the four cases are closed.
A Lesson in Capsizing
Afternoon students at the Belle Haven Marina summer sailing school practiced the fine art of capsizing and recovering Sunfish last Thursday afternoon, June 28, in the shallows at the marina.
‘Concert on the Grass’
Nativity Lutheran Church at 1300 Collingwood Road in Alexandria took advantage of its woodland location on Saturday, June 16 by hosting a free “concert on the grass” by "roots rock" singer-songwriter Janine Wilson and guitarist Max Evans.
Attending Governor’s School for Art
While many students began their summer vacations, two rising seniors at Chantilly High did something different: Yewon Kwon and Anne-Sophie Kim went to Radford University to attend the Governor’s School for Art.
Entertainment, Centre View Calendar Events 7/4/12
Calendar Events
Opinion: New Laws, Assault on Freedom?
Voting restrictions, abortion restrictions, DUI restrictions, fewer gun restrictions, more go into effect July 1.
A plethora of new laws will go into effect in the Commonwealth on July 1, including restrictive new procedures for voting, and the loosening of multiple gun regulations.
Storms Leave 2 Dead, Power Out
At least two dead in Fairfax; 285,000 residents still without power after Friday night’s hurricane force winds.
Winds of more than 70 miles per hour swept through Fairfax County Friday night. Power went out as the storm blew into the area around 10:30 p.m. with hurricane force winds sounding like a freight train.
Finding a Home for the Golden Years
Experts offer advice on choosing a retirement community.
When Jim Upp’s wife Jeannie died in 2006, the Fairfax senior citizen found himself surrounded by a lifetime of memories in the spacious home where the couple had raised three children. “We lived on a one-acre lot with plenty of trees all by ourselves,” said Upp. “I was alone, and there was a large house and an acre of land to take care of. It took me about five days to realize that wasn’t where it wanted to spend the rest of my life.”
Neighborhood Project in Memory of Tim Lyons
The Fair Lakes Forest community of Centreville, held a Community Day on June 9 — a culmination of 10 months of planning and work by the board and community volunteers. Last September, the community had lost one of its neighbors, Tim Lyons, to lung cancer when Patricia Tolbert heard about Fairfax County’s Neighborhood Enhancement Partnership Program which provides grants to “enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods by supporting projects and initiatives that assist in achieving the county’s vision elements.”
National Art Honor Society Officers
The Centreville High School Chapter of the National Art Honor Society elected new officers.
CES Wins National Recognition
School receives “Green Flag” status.
A ceremony celebrating Centreville Elementary School’s successful implementation of the National Wildlife Federation’s Eco-Schools USA program and its achievements as the second school in the state and only the fifth in the country to achieve “Green Flag” status was held June 8.
‘I Had To Learn A Lot on My Own’
Westfield student wins Hispanic Leadership Alliance scholarship.
Centreville’s Joe Fletcher, 18, just graduated from Westfield High. But before he did, he won a scholarship from the Hispanic Leadership Alliance (HLA). His school counselor, Bill Sidener, wrote the recommendation for his award and, as far as he’s concerned, the HLA couldn’t have picked a better recipient.
‘Words … More Hurtful Than Fists’
Author discusses bullying with seventh-graders.
Ben Mikaelsen lives in Montana. But before the school year ended, he came all the way to Rocky Run Middle School to share with the seventh-graders his firsthand knowledge about bullying.
Sullivan Honored as Officer of Quarter
Award presented at CAC meeting.
Whether trying to outsmart a shooter or figure out where a lost child might go, Fairfax County police PFC Gerald Sullivan gives the effort his all. As a result, he was recently honored as the Sully District Station’s Officer of the Quarter.
Dangerous Weapons or Child’s Play?
Police warn public about replica firearms.
It was shortly before midnight when City of Fairfax police rushed to an apartment complex after receiving a report of a man there carrying a gun. He’d already pointed his weapon at several people when officers confronted him, had him drop the gun and arrested him. This incident happened awhile ago, and the weapon turned out to be a replica of a long-barreled, semiautomatic rifle.
Centre View Roundups- 7/4/12
Centre View Roundups
Thursday, July 5
Weekly Entertainment (Burke/Springfield/Fairfax/Lorton)
July 7-20.
Entertainment in Burke/Springfield/Fairfax/Lorton.
Weekly Entertainment (Vienna/McLean/Great Falls)
July 6-20.
Entertainment in Vienna/McLean/Great Falls.
Wednesday, July 4
Coach Garza Leaves Mount Vernon for Robinson
Led Majors boys’ soccer for nine years.
Robert Garza takes over as head coach of the Robinson boys' soccer program after nine seasons with Mount Vernon.
Mansion House Piranhas Compete Against Langley
The Mansion House Piranhas started their season with a Neon Pep Rally and whipped cream eating contest on Saturday, June 23, in Alexandria against the Langley Wildthings under the leadership of returning coach Mark Faherty and assistant coach Katie Brado.
Champions
The Fort Hunt U13B2 boys’ lacrosse team defeated Chantilly, 11-7, on June 10 to win the championship.
Column: Writing On!
It was June ’09 when I published my first column in the Connection Newspapers about being diagnosed with cancer. It was actually a column detailing the diagnostic steps I had taken during the first few months of the year attempting to identify the pain I had initially felt under my right-side rib cage in late December.
Tuesday, July 3
Great Falls Seniors Group Sets First Event
Great Falls United Methodist Church will host July 10 event.
The Seniors Group of the Great Falls Citizens Association will host its first event Tuesday, July 10, by celebrating the community’s longest tenured residents.
New Plant Life at Village Centre
GFCA, local businesses plant 50 flower baskets.
Visitors to the Great Falls Village Centre and the surrounding areas may have noticed a little extra plant life. The Great Falls Citizens Association, along with the Village Centre Condos, the Old Brogue, Adeler Jewelers, BB and T, the Great Falls Exxon, Great Falls Auto Service, Village Green Day School and Oliver’s Corner all helped contribute to the project, which includes 50 baskets.
Storms Leave Thousands Without Power
Derecho hits McLean, Great Falls area causing massive damage.
After a night of watching blinding flashes of lightning, sheets of rain and pieces of trees flying around his yard, George Matmos of McLean sought out Saturday morning normalcy the best he knew how: with a cup of morning coffee.
Outgoing MCA President Honored
Rob Jackson named Lord of Fairfax for Dranesvile District.
Rob Jackson, who served the most terms as president in the history of the McLean Citizens Association, was honored by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors as Lord of Fairfax for the Dranesville District. Jackson, the outgoing president, became involved in community affairs after a random encounter years ago.
LINK Celebrates 40th Anniversary
A Herndon-based nonprofit aims to deliver food to those in need.
In 1972, a group of churches in Sterling and eastern Loudoun County got together with the idea of providing food for the needy, with members storing donated food in their basement. Three years later, they made inroads into Fairfax County and it was eventually chartered as a nonprofit. Forty years later, the group consists of 17 member churches in Herndon, Sterling Chantilly and Potomac Falls and has provided tens of thousands of families with assistance.
Chamber Hands Out Awards, Names New Board
Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce hosts annual awards luncheon.
The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce presented their annual Awards for Chamber Excellence (ACE) and welcomed their new board of directors Thursday, June 28 at the Hyatt Regency Reston. The chamber also celebrated its 30th anniversary, it was founded in 1982.
Express Care Teaches Essential Skills
Program aims to educate immigrants on health care, technology
In 1995, Naila Alam arrived to the United Stated from Pakistan to study hotel management. Soon she was diagnosed with a rare blood disease that almost proved fatal, and with her husband back in Pakistan, she had only her sister to help her navigate through a foreign country’s health care, as well as maintaining her educational studies and working.
O’Connell’s Finucane, Ferraro Named Softball All-Americans
Knights finish 2012 season ranked No. 5 in the nation.
Bishop O'Connell softball players Tori Finucane and Jillian Ferraro were named first-team All-Americans for the 2012 season.
WGCC Lightning Looks to Reclaim CCSDA Title
The WGCC Lightning last won its league swimming championship in 2010.
AKC Swims Past Manorgate for 2nd Straight Win
The Arlington Knights of Columbus (AKC) Holy Mackerels swam past the Manorgate Marlins, 242-202, at Manorgate on June 30 to earn their second straight win of the season in Colonial Swim League (CSL) Blue Division action.
O’Connell Grad Marshall Drafted by Suns
Former Bishop O'Connell star Kendall Marshall drafted by the Phoenix Suns.
Letters to the Editor
Environmental Degradation
We are writing with significant concern about work that is being undertaken along a number of the county's designated rustic roadways. Important roadside trees and vegetation are being cut back, we understand, with rented equipment that operates as a sort of massive vertical shredder.
After the Storm
Area residents cope with no power, no air-conditioning and soaring temperatures.
More than 80,000 residents were still struggling with power outages and triple-digit temperatures Monday after a wave of violent thunderstorms slammed the region Friday, June 29, packing hurricane-force winds that uprooted trees, downed power lines and knocked out power to more than 1 million homes.
‘London Calling’ at Mormon Prom
On May 12, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) hosted a Mormon prom for approximately 700 teens at the LDS stake center in Annandale. Many of those in attendance were from Springfield and adjacent areas of Fairfax County.
Local Bowhunting Group Hosts Young Archers
On Sunday, June 3, the Appalachian Bowhunters Association (ABA), a northern Virginia group established in 1987, hosted over fifty young people during its bi-annual Youth Day held at the home of Byron and Cheryl Wates, 13212 Wates Spring Place in Clifton. Seventeen ABA members volunteered their time to produce the event.
Coping with Storm’s Aftermath
Virtually all homes and businesses were without power in 100 degree heat after intense storm.
Winds more than 70 miles per hour swept through Potomac Friday night, June 29. Power went as the storm blew into Potomac with hurricane force winds sounding like a freight train.
DAR Recognizes Local Area Students
Anna Maria Fitzhugh Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, recently presented several awards at local schools.
Silverthorne Sworn In as City of Fairfax Mayor
Promises diversity, accountability as city moves forward with economic growth.
Speaking at swearing-in ceremony, R. Scott Silverthorne promised to recognize and reflect the city’s growing diversity as he became the 10th person to serve as mayor of the City of Fairfax on Wednesday, June 27.
Music for Wounded Warriors
Charles Croner shares healing power of music.
Potomac’s Charles (Chuck) Croner has been making the world a bit brighter for wounded warriors, their families and the staff at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center by playing and singing a variety of gospel, bluegrass, country and patriotic songs. Croner, a Potomac resident for more than 20 years, finds that sharing his music has a special meaning for him.
Dads, Sons Discuss Serious Child’s Play
Besides police and sheriffs, some Fairfax fathers and sons also attended last week’s press conference on replica weapons. The sons hadn’t done anything wrong, but they regularly use these weapons to play a popular game called Airsoft.
When Dangerous Games Turn Deadly
Police warn public about replica firearms.
It was shortly before midnight when City of Fairfax police rushed to an apartment complex after receiving a report of a man there carrying a gun. He’d already pointed his weapon at several people when officers confronted him, had him drop the gun and arrested him.
‘Save West Springfield Car Care’ Petition Ignites Community Interest
Nearly 500 supporters sign petition in less than one week.
More than 500 local residents have signed a Change.org petition to Governor Bob McDonnell in an attempt to stop the closing of locally-owned West Springfield Car Care, an auto repair shop that has operated for 12 years at 8400 Old Keene Mill Road.
Storms Bring Disruption to Potomac
Strong storms upended trees and broke limbs as branches fell on roofs and destroyed parked cars.
Robinson Students Place Second in the Nation
A team from James W. Robinson Secondary School in Fairfax, recently placed second in the Nation in Systems Control Technology. The competition was held in Nashville, Tenn., at the Gaylord Resort on June 24.
Finding a Home for the Golden Years
Experts offer advice on choosing a retirement community.
When Jim Upp’s wife Jeannie died in 2006, the Fairfax senior citizen found himself surrounded by a lifetime of memories in the spacious home where the couple had raised three children.
Editorial: New Laws, Assault on Freedom?
oting restrictions, abortion restrictions, DUI restrictions, fewer gun restrictions, more go into effect July.
A plethora of new laws will go into effect in the Commonwealth on July 1, including restrictive new procedures for voting, and the loosening of multiple gun regulations.
A Journey from the Past to Change the Future
Church hosts discussion on death penalty
The Journey of Hope and Virginians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty hosted an event on Friday, June 29 in recognition of the 40th anniversary of Furman v. Georgia, a Supreme Court case that abolished capital punishment in every U.S. state. The decision was overturned by Gregg v. Georgia four years later.
Shepherd’s Center Receives 2012 Nonprofit of the Year Award
The Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV) was recently presented with the 2012 Nonprofit of the Year Award from the Vienna Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce for their outstanding service to the community during the past year.
Troop 987 Eagle Service Project
Sam Rohrer of Troop 987 in Vienna completed his Eagle Service Project at Great Falls National Park. Sam led a group of 40 scouts in rebuilding and stabilizing a severely eroded stairway leading down to the AA Gorge at the Park.
Guns from the South
July 1 marks lifting of 19-year restriction on hand gun purchases.
On July 1, the 19-year restriction on handgun purchases in Virginia became null and void. The measure was signed by Gov. Bob McDonnell Feb 28, and effectively allows an unlimited number of handgun purchases to individuals in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
July 1, Fewer Gun Restrictions
Legislation going into effect this week in Virginia includes multiple bills that ease any restrictions on guns.
Summer Stories, Song and Sprinklers Kick Off on Town Green
Weekly Wednesday fun starts at 1 p.m. behind Freeman House on the Town Green.
For children, one of the great joys of summer is running through sprinklers. Preface that with a story and fun songs, like the Hokey Pokey, and you have an old-fashioned country-style afternoon. Historic Vienna, Inc. partners with the Town of Vienna Department of Parks and Recreation every Wednesday to provide music and sprinkler-power on the Town Green.
More Homes Regain Power
Cooling centers open during heat wave.
As of Monday morning, July 2, there were about 26,000 to 27,000 households without power in Arlington— an improvement from a peak of 59,000 households following the June 29 thunderstorm.
Family, Friends Recall Marine’s ‘Restless Spirit’
Niall Coti-Sears killed in Afghanistan.
Niall Coti-Sears enjoyed playing Chopin, composing music, skiing, discussing philosophy, playing soccer, hiking, horseback riding, reading about physics and making others laugh. His loved ones knew him for his energetic, adventurous and positive spirit.
Vienna Police PIO Retires
Bill Murray looks back on 23 years with Vienna Police Department.
After 23 years with the Vienna Police Department, five of which were spent as Public Information Officer for the department, MPO Bill Murray is retiring from the police force, effective June 30.
Family, Friends Recall Marine’s ‘Restless Spirit’
Niall Coti-Sears killed in Afghanistan.
Niall Coti-Sears enjoyed playing Chopin, composing music, skiing, discussing philosophy, playing soccer, hiking, horseback riding, reading about physics and making others laugh. His loved ones knew him for his energetic, adventurous and positive spirit.
Monday, July 2
Tennis Opportunities Abound in McLean, Great Falls Area
Local clubs tailor instruction for player’s individual needs.
Children, teenagers, and adults alike can experience the instruction of certified professionals in McLean and Great Falls tennis facilities.
Madeira Student Named Horse Show Youth Ambassador
The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), a national equestrian event based in Washington, D.C. since 1958, has announced Hanna Powers of Potomac Falls, Va., as Youth Ambassador of the 2012 show.
McLean Dancer Wins Gold, Contract
Albert Gordon wins Gold at the Boston International Ballet Competition.
The Washington Ballet (TWB) announced that dancer, Brooklyn Mack, won a Gold medal at the 2nd Annual Boston International Ballet Competition (BIBC) in Boston, Mass., on Sunday, June 17.
Full of Fun Musical Comes to Alden
McLean Community Players to present "Legally Blonde, The Musical."
"Such a sassy show, with so much fun" is Kate Merryman's description of the McLean Community Players’ production of "Legally Blonde, The Musical." "It is just totally upbeat, an inspiration to see."
Pamela Danner Named 2012 ‘Friend in Deed’
The Friends of the McLean Community Center organization named McLean attorney Pamela B. Danner the recipient of its 2012 "Friend in Deed" award. Danner is the 19th person to receive this recognition "with gratitude for outstanding leadership and support of the McLean Community Center."
Thousands Without Power In Vienna and Oakton
Violent storms down trees and power lines.
Downed trees and power lines kept crews working around the clock Sunday in Vienna and Oakton to restore electricity and clear roads of debris after a wave of violent storms barreled through the region Friday, June 29.
Letter: Correcting Inaccuracies
My Letter to the Editor (The Reston Connection, May 30-Jun 6 edition, Letters, Fraud Issue-Revisited) appears to have contained some inaccurate information.
Column: Northern Virginia by the Numbers
Most people know the biggest and best numbers about Northern Virginia. We live in a remarkable region of the country. Some of our jurisdictions have among the highest incomes in the country. The educational attainment of adults is among the highest in the country.
FCPS Students Earn Awards at National TSA Conference
More than 28 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) middle and high school students won awards at the National Technology Student Association (TSA) Conference, held recently in Nashville.
Helping Women in Sierra Leone
Helping Children Worldwide launched Women’s Cancer Screening in Sierra Leone.
Helping Children Worldwide piloted a breast and cervical cancer screening program at Mercy Hospital in Bo, Sierra Leone. Nearly $45,000 worth of supplies and equipment were donated and/or loaned by Cooper Surgical, Bard Surgical, Mary Washington Hospital, Cross Link International, Global Public Health/Sonosite and Clinical Pathology Laboratories.
City of Fairfax Announces State of Emergency
Fourth of July celebration still on.
City of Fairfax officials announced a state of emergency today as more power crews arrived in the city to restore electricity to the 900 homes still without power, according to Mayor Scott Silverthorne.
New Laws, Assault on Freedom?
Voting restrictions, abortion restrictions, DUI restrictions, fewer gun restrictions, more go into effect July 1.
A plethora of new laws will go into effect in the Commonwealth on July 1, including restrictive new procedures for voting, and the loosening of multiple gun regulations.
Documentary Tackles Corporate Tax Evasion
"We're Not Broke" screening in Arlington makes taxation a question of justice.
In Karin Hayes and Victoria Bruce's documentary film, "We're Not Broke," which played to an audience in the Arlington County Library June 25, makes the case that taxes are not America's problem. It is who is and who is not being taxed that is.
Storms Leave 2 Dead, Power Out
At least two dead in Fairfax; 285,000 residents still without power after Friday night’s hurricane force winds.
Winds of more than 70 miles per hour swept through Fairfax County Friday night. Power went out as the storm blew into the area around 10:30 p.m. with hurricane force winds sounding like a freight train. The sound made some residents think a tornado was upon them, and many took refuge in basements.
Despite Failing Grade on Transparency, Law Enforcement Officials Resist Opening Access
Advocates for public access remain frustrated by persistent lack of transparency.
Back in March, Virginia received a failing grade from the State Integrity Investigation as the result of a systematic lack of transparency.
Sunday, July 1
18,000 Lose Power in Potomac
Virtually all homes and businesses were without power in 100 degree heat after intense storm.
Winds of more than 70 miles per hour swept through Potomac, Montgomery and Fairfax counties Friday night. Power went as the storm blew into Potomac with hurricane force winds sounding like a freight train.
Freak Storm Hits Reston
Strong winds knock out power and phone service, causing tree damage.
On Friday night a line of powerful storms moved through the D.C. area. The storms hit the Reston area around 10:30 p.m., taking many residents by surprise. The storms knocked out power and phone reception throughout Reston and caused significant tree damage.