Friday, June 28
SSSAS Grad Reed Preparing for All-American Game
Attacker finished prep career with 475 goals.
Lacrosse standout Carly Reed will attend the University of North Carolina.
Lake Braddock Grad Rodi Headed to Hillsdale College
Former Lake Braddock volleyball player Kyra Rodi helped the Bruins win the 2011 Patriot District title.
Thursday, June 27
Housing's Roaring Rebound?
In February, Patricia Stack, a broker with Weichert Realtors, held an open house for a single-family home for sale in Vienna just listed for $739,000. Within three hours, more than 70 people toured the home.
Centre View Bulletin
Centreville Toastmasters. 7 p.m. at Centreville Regional Library, 14200 St. Germain Drive. Overcome your fear of public speaking in a proven program that has helped thousands over the last 89 years. All welcome.
Housing’s Roaring Rebound?
Pent-up demand creates seller’s market for Northern Virginia real estate.
In February, Patricia Stack, a broker with Weichert Realtors, held an open house for a single-family home for sale in Vienna just listed for $739,000. Within three hours, more than 70 people toured the home. “The home went under contract substantially above list price,” Stack said. “2013 has started with a bang in Northern Virginia real estate. In fact, it appears to be a market more like 2005-2006 than anything we've seen since,” Stack said.
Alexandria Calendar of Events
Summer Classes. Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate.
Chamber Awards Spotlight Acts of Valor
Laboy, Weismann among honorees for heroism.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce recognized first responders from the Alexandria Police Department, Fire Department and Office of the Sheriff at the 27th Annual Valor Awards held June 13 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
School Notes
Andrew Jackman was named to Sacred Heart University's dean's list.
Mount Vernon Bulletin
Colonial Republican Women Meeting. 6:30-9 p.m. at Virginia Hills Administration Center, 6520 Diana Lane. Refreshments will be served. E-mail colonialrepublicanwomen@gmail.com or 703-624-3252.
Legion Installs New Officers
Glassman to lead veterans organization.
Vietnam veteran Jim Glassman was sworn in as the new Commander of American Legion Post 24 in Alexandria during a June 12 ceremony to install the organization's 2013-2014 slate of offices and board members.
Hall of Fame Dedicated at Center
The lobby at the Charles Houston Recreation Center was bursting with guests for the dedication and unveiling ceremony of the new Charles Houston Mural and Hall of Fame on Saturday afternoon, June 22.
Soccer Clinic Benefits Shelter
Boys and girls from across Alexandria came out for Virginia's first Kicking4Hunger soccer clinic on June 15 at Ben Brenman Park. In lieu of an admission fee, the children, ages 6-11, were encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for Carpenter’s Shelter in Alexandria.
Thousands Attend Food and Wine Fest
2nd annual Food and Wine Festival attracts thousands.
More than 5,000 people attended the second annual Alexandria Food and Wine Festival June 22, which was held in the Carlyle District of Alexandria.
Roundups
In hopes of encouraging people to adopt cats and kittens, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter has designated July as “Extravacatza.” Adoptive families will receive half-off adoption fees, plus free spay and neuter, on cats and kittens. Senior cat adopters will receive gift bags.
Centre View Calendar
The Airbus IMAX Theater at National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air & Space Museum Parkway, is showing movies including “Hubble,” “Fighter Pilot,” “Space Junk,” “Air Racers”, “The Dream is Alive” and ”Star Trek: Into the Darkness”. Visit http://airandspace.si.edu/udvarhazy/ or call 703-572-4118 for the movie schedule.
Let the Music Play
10th anniversary Garden Party cultivates ASO support.
The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra's 10th annual Garden Party drew more than 175 people to the Belle Haven home of Isin and George E. Ludlow June 20 in an event that capped the 25th anniversary celebration of Maestro Kim Allen Kluge.
Letter: Unaware of Federal Law?
To the Editor: Your story of June 20 by reporter Michael Lee Pope, headlined “An Alternative for Alternative B,” raises some very serious concerns about the planning process in Alexandria.
That ‘Small Town Vibe’
Seventh Annual Del Ray Music Festival draws crowds
Hensley Field is one of the city's most popular recreation sites, with three baseball fields and one multi-purpose field nestled between the Capital Beltway and Eisenhower Avenue just west of Cameron Run. But that may change soon.
Mount Vernon Military Notes
Army Capt. Jeffrey J. Gunlicks has returned to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., after being deployed to Iraq serving in support of Operation New Dawn. Gunlicks, an officer in charge of the Taji Projects Office attached to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, D.C., has served eight years in the military. The captain is a resident of Cannes Court, Alexandria.
Points of Sail
Sailing instructor Sam Fleuchaus worked the better part of the end of an hour reinforcing the idea of wind and maneuvering on the river.
Safe to Eat Potomac Offerings?
States advise which to avoid, which to limit, due to PCBs and methyl mercury.
Recreational and subsistence fishermen who catch fish on the Potomac River and its tributaries beware: Resident largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, yellow perch, eel, and migratory striped bass (rockfish) and white perch, and other fish contain unhealthy levels of PCBs, methyl mercury, and pesticides.
Opinon: Covert Matters
Alexandria’s Welcome Mat for Mr. Snowden
Aw shucks. Just when it looked like Alexandria would be “home” to another spy he’s slipped through the grasp of authorities.
Making Maps to Solve Problems
Centreville High students apply geospatial analysis to solve real-life dilemmas.
When Centreville High seniors Antonio Choi and Brooke Peterson presented their culminating, final-exam project, they did so at their school’s first-ever GIS (geographic information system) Fair. And Tish McKinstry, their Geospatial Analysis teacher, couldn’t have been prouder of them and their classmates.
Opinion: So Long, Farewell …
Senior Services of Alexandria
After five and half years, I will be leaving my position as executive director of Senior Services of Alexandria at the end of this month. It has been my sincere pleasure and a true honor to serve in this capacity.
Letter to the Editor: J-H Appreciates Community Support
Jefferson-Houston is a school community with great pride and promise. Amid the difficult moments we have faced over the past year, we have felt great support from so many community members who have reached out to us with their time and expertise. They have poured their hearts and minds into teaching and mentoring our children, and for that, the Jefferson-Houston community is truly grateful.
Police Call Chantilly Tragedy ‘Domestic in Nature’
It’s not yet known what touched off the fight among the three men, Tuesday morning, inside a Chantilly home used as a childcare center. And at press time, the victims’ names hadn’t been released.
Letter to the Editor: Need To Address Running Tracks
You will be pleased to know that Alexandria School system students performed well at the Hershey Track and Field Event on June 22. The 4x100 team from Mount Vernon Recreation Center was barely edged out and took second place. The team from Charles Houston Recreation Center finished in third place. An Alexandria student also took first place in the long jump. They should be commended.
Letter to the Editor: Open Space Vigilance
Normally, ribbon-cutting ceremonies are very mundane events to draw attention to a new supermarket or the naming or re-naming of a street. But sometimes they can be a red-letter day, worthy of acclaim and attention for the efforts the event is trying to celebrate.
Editorial: Careful While Going Faster
If you have driven on the new 495 Express Lanes, you might wonder if the people who decided to raise the speed limit to 65 have driven on them.
Santantonio Joins McEnearney
Wendy Santantonio has joined McEnearney Associates Inc. Realtors as a Realtor in its Alexandria office. Santantonio grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from Miami University with a B.S. in business. In 2000, she became an Alexandria resident.
Editorial: Calling All Pets
The Pet Gazette, a bi-annual themed edition, will publish July 24.
Mount Vernon School Notes
Mariya Ilyas graduated from Bowdoin College with a major in mathematics and a minor in government and legal studies.
Opinion: Editorials
Ready for Your Pet’s Close-up? The Pet Centre View, a bi-annual themed edition, will publish July 24. We invite you to send us stories about your pets, photos of you and/or your family with your cats, dogs, hamsters, snakes, lizards, frogs, rabbits, or whatever other creatures share your home or yard with you.
Letter to the Editor: Intersection Needs Improving
This is in response to your letter [“Why Is Project Fast-Tracked?”] regarding the proposed improvement to the intersection of Pleasant Valley Road and Braddock Road. You have asked several questions which I will attempt to answer. However, this is not a Fairfax County project but a Virginia Department of Transportation initiative and some of your questions are better answered by VDOT.
West Potomac Class of 2013 Celebrates All Night
More than 70 businesses and sponsors came together to celebrate the West Potomac High School Class of 2013 with donations to the all-night graduation party on June 18.
Union Mill Elementary End of the Year Barbecure
Union Mill Elementary school held an end-of-year barbecue on Monday, June 17, for all of its students. The students ate lunch outside on the blacktop on beach towels and blankets. The school’s Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) volunteers grilled the hamburgers and hot dogs, and helped distribute the food, drinks and ice cream to students. A DJ played music, while students danced and hula-hooped.
Union Mill Elementary Spring Concert
Band students at Union Mill Elementary performed their Spring Concert on Wednesday, June 12. The Union Mill band, which is comprised of 120 fifth and sixth grade students, performed Chuck Elledge’s “Dr. Rock,” “Party Rock Anthem,” Vince Guaraldi’s “Linus and Lucy,” Taio Cruz’s “Dynamite,” “Mickey Mouse March,” Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” and “Let’s Go Band,” by Andrew Balent. The Union Mill Elementary band is directed by Laura Seifried.
Union Mill Elementary Orchestra Spring Concert
Fourth, fifth and sixth grade strings students performed their Spring Concert on Thursday, June 13. The fourth grade students began the concert with “Hot Cross Buns,” Beethoven’s “Ode To Joy,” and Offenbach’s “Can-Can.” The fourth graders finished their portion of the program with the traditional “French Folk Song.” Next, fifth and sixth grade strings students performed “Finale from the First Symphony,” by Brahms, followed by “Classical Bash,” a medley of several famous classical pieces including Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, “Surprise Symphony” by Haydn, Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik,” and “Ode to Joy.” The concert concluded with a final piece in which the entire 125-student orchestra performed Queen’s “We Will Rock You,” as the audience kept the beat of the song. The Union Mill Elementary orchestra is directed by Melissa Brown.
Mount Vernon Crime Report
Ladson Lane/Richmond Highway, June 13, 10:30 p.m. A 34-year-old man reported he parked his car when an unknown man opened the door and demanded money. The victim did not have any money.
CVHS Honors its Thespians
Actors and techs were honored June 13 during Centreville High’s 25th annual Thespie Awards ceremony; 14 students were inducted into Centreville Troupe 4510 of the International Thespian Society.
People
Lindsay Lucas and Chris Somerville Wed
Lindsay Ayers Lucas and Matthew Christopher Somerville were married at 4 p.m. Saturday, May 4, 2013 at River Farm in Alexandria, Va. The Rev. Alan Felumlee of Centreville United Methodist Church officiated.
10 Years Incarceration For Former Teacher
He was convicted of child-porn offenses.
Little more than a year ago, Oak Hill resident Robert C. Fenn was about to finish his first year of teaching at Poplar Tree Elementary, where he taught special-ed students in kindergarten through third grade. But it all ended June 12, 2012, when Fairfax County police arrested him at the school on child-pornography charges.
‘His Life Mattered’
Westfield teacher, students raise money to honor Matt Peterson.
Matt Peterson was just 16 when his father inexplicably killed him, his mother and younger brother in their Herndon home before taking his own life.
Alexandria School Notes
Throughout Volunteer Appreciation Week, Alexandria public schools recognized their outstanding volunteers.
Letter to the Editor: More Shirts, More Names
A Richmond mom first made the clothesline of white t-shirts six years ago — 32 of them in all; one for each of the victims of Virginia Tech. It's been six years, but we have not forgotten. The names written on each of those t-shirts are heartbreakingly familiar ... Mary, Reema, Daniel ….
Obituary
Betty Jeanne Canfield Randall
Betty Jeanne Randall died on June 5, 2013 at home with family in Alexandria after a valiant, short battle with cancer. Born in Los Angeles (’41), she graduated from South Pasadena High School with honors and Mount St. Mary’s College with honors. Being driven, as she was, she finished college in 3 and a half years with a degree in English (’63).
Pastor Marks First Anniversary
Pastor Robert. L. Lewis, Jr. will be celebrating his first year at Messiah Lutheran Church in Alexandria with a summer sermon series entitled ,”What’s Faith, Why Faith?” based on the book in the Bible known as The Letter to the Galatians. The sermon series will be during the regular Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Messiah Lutheran called Lewis in June of 2012 and he began his ministry the following month. He came to Messiah Lutheran after serving at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Bethesda, Md. as the pastor for youth and family for eight years.
Emerging Scholar
Leilani "Lillie" Soriano, a rising 5th grader, was accepted into the Emerging Scholars Program which began on June 24. ESP is a 14-month academic and leadership program that was established in late 2002.
Sacred Threads: Quilt Exhibit with Meaning
Besides being beautiful to look at, handmade quilts can convey powerful messages. Such are the quilts that will be on display during Sacred Threads 2013.
Steiding Named Officer of Month
PFC Adrian Steiding is the Sully District Police Station’s Officer of the Month for May. He was honored during his evening roll call. Lt. Rich Morvillo, assistant station commander, presented an example of Steiding’s work illustrating why he was selected.
A Year of Donations
Stratford Woman's Club celebrated a successful year of donations to Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School, Fort Hunt Elementary School and Make-a-Wish Foundation. Stratford Woman's Club is a non-federated club and membership is open to women who are interested in community service and fund-raising for worthwhile organizations. Monthly meeting are held at 9:30 a.m. on the second Thursday of each month from September through May at Heritage Presbyterian Church on Fort Hunt Road. Contact President Judy Henderson at 703-780-1068 for more information.
Landmark Neighborhood Braces for Drastic Redevelopment
11-acre site to become urban village with retail, residential and entertainment.
When West End resident Daniel Daughtry's watch broke, he did the same thing people across the country do — he headed for the local mall.
Study Shows $54 Million Retail Gap Along Richmond Highway Corridor
Supply is not meeting demand in Mount Vernon.
Supply is not matching demand along Richmond Highway, according to a new study from the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation.
Bike to the Future: Alexandria Rewrites Rulebook for Cyclists
Bicycles will now be allowed on sidewalks outside core business zone.
Do bicycles belong on the street or on the sidewalk?
Wednesday, June 26
Professional Business Organizations Meet on Softball Field
Vienna Business Association and Vienna Business Networking International inaugurate annual softball game.
The Vienna Business Association [VBA] faced off with challenger Vienna Business Networking International [BNI] on June 23 in a closely-contested softball game at Southside Field. Family and colleagues cheered on their players and BNI edged out VBA for a 20-18 win. The match, bringing in players that belong to either of the two professional business clubs or serving double-duty in both clubs (not counting a few ringers), was a friendly competition supported by a barbeque buffet catered by Red, White and Blue, and a bounce-house to keep the children entertained.
Column: No Shame in Crying
Nor is it a crying shame. But something has changed, dare I say affected my tear duct production. I can’t say with certainty – or even specify a particular moment in time for sure – when the tears began to flow more easily, but I’ll guess the change occurred sometime on or around February 27, 2009, the day I first met my oncologist; the day I was diagnosed with a terminal disease, stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), “prognosed” to live 13 months to two years. If that kind of shocking, terminal-type news doesn’t upset your apple cart – permanently, “You’re a better man than I am, Gunga Din.” And so it has, as reflected in my frequent “salty discharge” (to quote Jerry Seinfeld).
Editorial: Ready for Your Pet’s Close-up?
The Pet Connection, a bi-annual themed edition, will publish July 24. We invite you to send us stories about your pets, photos of you and/or your family with your cats, dogs, hamsters, snakes, lizards, frogs, rabbits, or whatever other creatures share your home or yard with you.
Engagements
Justin Paul Robinson and Sarah Catherine James Engaged
Mr. and Mrs. Mark and Cindy Robinson of Ashburn announce the engagement of their son, Justin Paul Robinson, 24, to Sarah Catherine James, 23, daughter of Robert and Lucy of Metuchen, N.J.
Balenger Story: Walking Tall
Nick Balenger, paralyzed after a swimming accident, walks at the Lake Braddock graduation ceremony.
Every Lake Braddock senior who walked across the George Mason University Patriot Center stage for a diploma received applause and praise for 12 years of hard work. But only one student received a standing ovation for simply walking.
Viewpoints
Lake Braddock Graduates Discuss: Where are you going next and where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Lake Braddock graduates discuss their futures.
Children Dig Into Reading
Summer reading program sparks enthusiasm in area libraries.
This year’s summer reading program in Fairfax County libraries provides children and their parents with enriching opportunities they can sink their hands into.
Join the ‘Extravacatza’
In hopes of encouraging people to adopt cats and kittens, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter has designated July as “Extravacatza.” Adoptive families will receive half-off adoption fees, plus free spay and neuter, on cats and kittens. Senior cat adopters will receive gift bags.
Tuberculosis Clinic Set Up at Lee High School
Three people at the school identified as having active TB.
Following reports that as many as 430 students and faculty at Robert E. Lee High School could have been exposed to tuberculosis, Fairfax County Health Department officials set up a special clinic on Friday, June 21, to provide testing and information on the infectious disease.
Fairfax to Celebrate Independence Day
The City of Fairfax has planned a host of activities for Thursday, July 4, including a parade in historic downtown Fairfax, and music and fireworks at Fairfax High School.
True Food Kitchen Opens at Mosaic
True Food Kitchen is scheduled to open its doors to the public in summer 2014 at Mosaic in Fairfax.
Animal Shelter Fundraiser Proves Big Success
Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter held a fundraiser for the shelter, June 9, at Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton. Nearly 200 people attended the event, called “Wine, Whiskers & Wags,” and raised $6,000 for the shelter.
Postcards for Wounded Veterans
During May, for Military Appreciation Month, students at Oak View Elementary School wrote over 1,300 postcards to wounded veterans at Ft. Belvoir.
Potoman/North Sends off Talented Players
The Potomac/North U16 and U19 teams, full of Fairfax County players, both took home the Gold Medal Saturday and Sunday, June 22-23 the VA Commonwealth Games (The Virginia Olympics) for Field Hockey at the University of Virginia.
SkateFest Raises $11,500 for Children’s Hospital
Skateboarders from all over compete in Sk8 for a Cause.
Some 250 skateboarders from as far away as Missouri and Pennsylvania traveled to Wakefield Skate Park in Annandale Friday and Saturday, June 21 and 22, to compete in the seventh Annual SkateFest—Sk8 for a Cause, which raised $11,500 for Children’s National Medical Center in the district.
Delightful Evenings at Kate’s
Springfield Irish Pub hosts Open Mic Night on Wednesdays.
For about six years, Jim Bellas, 65, of the district, has organized the Open Mic Night on Wednesdays at Kate’s Irish Pub in Springfield’s Concorde Shopping Center. Anyone can sign up to play for free on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 to 11 p.m. The sets usually last between 10-15 minutes and include three to five songs.
Area Roundups 06/26-07/02
In hopes of encouraging people to adopt cats and kittens, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter has designated July as “Extravacatza.” Adoptive families will receive half-off adoption fees, plus free spay and neuter, on cats and kittens. Senior cat adopters will receive gift bags.
Col. Gadson Comes to Sangster
Wounded Warriors inspire young audience.
Movie buffs might know him from his role in the 2011 blockbuster “Battleship” as Mick, the gruff wounded vet who helps save the world from aliens, but to the students at Sangster Elementary School in Springfield, he is known as real-life hero Col. Gregory D. Gadson, Ft. Belvoir garrison commander and Purple Heart recipient.
Workhouse Holds Summer Art Party on the Quad
Community invited to soak up art, artists and arts education programs.
It was a celebration of the arts when the Workhouse Arts Center hosted its Summer Art Party on the Quad on Saturday, June 22 in Lorton. The Art Party included art projects, storytelling for grownups, music, bubble art, interactive history, artist demos, tours of the former Lorton Prison and a community pillow fight.
Week in Fairfax
Robbery and Shooting in Mantua, Countywide Transit Network Study, Chick-fil-A Seeks People to Dress as Cows.
Second Saturday Walkers Vote for Favorite Art
Three artists from the Workhouse Associate Artists (WAA) were chosen as People's Choice Award winners for their current exhibition in Gallery 902 (Building W9) at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton.
Christ United Methodist Church Breaks Ground
Pastor John Speight broke ground on a vision that he'd been pursuing for 20 years on Sunday, June 2nd, as the Christ United Methodist congregation broke shovels into soil to begin the foundation for a new, visible church building location
Arlington Bulletin Board
Bulletin Board
Obituary: Joseph R. Gunn, III
On June 5, 2013, Joseph R. Gunn, III, (Joe), 84, died at Suburban Hospital in Bethesd. Mr. Gunn was a retired economist and senior vice president with Nathan Associates, an international economic consulting firm, based in Washington, D.C.
Celebrating Independence Day at Workhouse Arts Center
The Workhouse Arts Center will celebrate Independence Day with live music, a patriotic exhibition and a fireworks show on July 6.
Commentary: Putting the People First
Good government isn’t as hard as politicians make it out to be. It’s really about putting the people first.
Meier: ‘A Supporter, Leader and Listener’
Although Danny Meier’s now retired as Robinson’s principal, he left his mark on the school and his colleagues say he led it well. “He’s a great leader because he’s quick at evaluating situations and has the background to make logical decisions,” said school administrative assistant Sue Henderson. “It’s also a great loss because I’ll miss him as a friend.”
Orange Line
‘Unplugged’ Concert Series. Thursdays, June through August from 6-8 p.m. at Market Common Clarendon, 2700 Clarendon Blvd. Enjoy free performances of live acoustic music. Visit www.marketcommonclarendon.net or 703-785-5634.
Potomac Bulletin Board
Bulletin Board
Potomac Food and Drink
A group of food trucks operating in Montgomery County has a website making it easier find out where they will be.
Potomac Calendar
Mommy & Me (& Daddy, Too). Third Tuesday each month. 10 a.m. at Rockville Town Square. Meet for a morning out with active learning and creative play with lunch specials, story time, arts and crafts, sing-a-longs, prizes and more. Visit rockvilletownsquare.com/events/mommy-and-me. On the Square: July 16, Aug. 20, Sept. 17 and Oct. 15.
Opinion: Ready for Your Pet’s Close-up?
The Pet Almanac, a bi-annual themed edition, will publish July 24.
We invite you to send us stories about your pets, photos of you and/or your family with your cats, dogs, hamsters, snakes, lizards, frogs, rabbits, or whatever other creatures share your home or yard with you. Tell us the story of a special bond between a child and a dog, the story of how you came to adopt your pet, or examples of amazing feats of your creatures.
River-related incidents quickly turn fatal
A 19-year-old drowned in the Potomac River Monday. Rescue personnel were still searching for his body at the time of the Almanac's Tuesday press time.
Housing’s Roaring Rebound?
Buoyed by low mortgage rates, low regional unemployment, growth in the number of households and rising consumer confidence, the residential real-estate market in the region has rebounded in a big way. Unlike the last five years, demand is up and supply is down. In fact, in some particularly desirable neighborhoods, the transition from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market is all but complete. Call it the new “reality in realty.”
Soccer Clinic for Adults
Arlington County is offering a summer soccer clinic for adults — for total novices who would like to learn to play, and beginning / low intermediate players who want to improve their soccer skills. The six-week clinics will teach basic skills in dribbling, passing, shooting, and defense.
WILL Interactive Inc. Brings Hollywood to Potomac
Business uses interactive movie experiences for training.
Driving by the Bank of America building on Falls Road every day, one most likely never notices an innocuous black and white sign announcing that WILL Interactive, Inc. resides in that building. The mystery of the name may only momentarily tweak one’s brain.
Arlington Crime Report
ARMED ROBBERY, 2400 block of S. Eads Street. At 12:30 a.m. on June 17, a suspect robbed two victims at gunpoint as they were walking to their car.
Whitman Music Celebrates 50 Years
180 alumni plus more than 400 in attendance to celebrate.
Only three. Walt Whitman High School, in 50 years, has had just three principals, just three instrumental music directors and just three choral directors.
Arlington Calendar
Food Truck Thursdays. In the surface parking lot at the corner of Crystal Drive and 18th Street.
“Flourishing After 55”
“Flourishing After 55” from Arlington’s Office of Senior Adult Programs for July 8-12.
New Bicycle Signs Dedicated in Downtown McLean
Signs placed to aid cyclists and walkers through downtown McLean.
Fairfax County staff joined with bicycling advocates in downtown McLean Thursday, June 20, to celebrate the installation of several bicycle wayfinding signs. The signs give directions to bicyclists and pedestrians throughout downtown McLean to community landmarks such as the McLean Community Center, and W&OD Trail.
GFCA Hosts Groundwater Contamination Discussion
Lawyer speaks on experiences with groundwater contamination.
The Great Falls Citizens Association hosted Matt Pawa, an attorney with experience dealing with groundwater contamination Thursday, June 20.
Virginia Gubernatorial Candidates Speak in Reston
Northern Virginia Technology Council hosts Ken Cuccinelli, Terry McAuliffe.
The Northern Virginia Technology Council hosted Virginia’s two gubernatorial candidates Thursday, June 20 at Microsoft’s Reston offices.
Herndon High School Graduation Viewpoints
Where are you headed in the fall and where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Arlington Urban Agriculture Task Force Chickens Out
Panel members fail to reach consensus; submit three separate reports.
The Urban Agriculture Task Force laid an egg.
Tuesday, June 25
Herndon High Class of 2013 Graduates
Four hundred and eighty-eight seniors graduate at Patriot Center.
The 488 members of the Herndon High School Class of 2013 took their final steps as high school students Tuesday, June 18 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax.
Week in Reston
This week in Reston features exciting news and events!
Guest Dealers
South Lakes' All Night Grad Party, held Friday, June 14 after graduation, had three guest dealers from the FCPS School Board.
RCA Announces Board Candidates
Online elections June 26 to July 10.
Contact Information for the Candidates: Colin Mills (president)—703-608-6049, cwmills47@hotmail.com; Gary Lee Thomas (president)—703-620-4279, garyleethomas@yahoo.com; Gary Walker (Lake Anne/Tall Oaks/Town Center)—703-864-3535, gary@gehwokka.com; Joe Leighton (South Lakes)—571-213-2611, joe_leighton@comcast.net; John Hanley (Hunters Woods)—703-391-9549, john.hanley@gi-de.com; Connie Hartke (Hunters Woods)—703-476-1230, constance@actwebservices.com; Tammi Petrine (At-Large)—703-390-0577, para1010@verizon.net.
Commentary: Northern Virginia’s Health
The 2.2 million people in the Northern Virginia communities of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties and Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park cities live in the most populous region in the commonwealth and in some of the wealthiest jurisdictions in the nation.
Operation: Ladybug at Herndon-based Children's Science Center
The Children's Science Center of Herndon, at 485 Spring Park Place, Suite 500, is providing some ideas for backyard science this summer, with a call to young scientists to identify various species of ladybugs in their backyard.
Week in Herndon
Current events and news in Herndon.
Cox Communications Hosts Family Safety Fair
Cox Communications continues its efforts to keep families safe in their digital lives and beyond by hosting a Family Safety Day at its Herndon Solutions Store (3080 Centreville Road, Herndon) on June 29 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Herndon Town Calendar Photo Exhibit
ArtSpace Herndon and the Council for the Arts of Herndon have chosen 60 photographs to appear in the third annual Herndon Town Calendar Photo Competition.
Promoting Recycling in Herndon Neighborhoods
The Four Seasons and Hunters Creek neighborhoods, both located in the Town of Herndon, will square off in a “Battle of the Bottles” to determine which neighborhood increases its percentage of recycled material throughout the month of July.
Sacred Threads: Quilt Exhibit With Meaning
Besides being beautiful to look at, handmade quilts can convey powerful messages.
‘A Way to Say That His Life Mattered’
Westfield teacher, students raise money to honor Matt Peterson.
Matt Peterson was just 16 when his father inexplicably killed him, his mother and younger brother in their Herndon home before taking his own life.
10 Years Incarceration For Former Teacher
Robert C. Fenn convicted of child-porn offenses.
Little more than a year ago, Oak Hill resident Robert C. Fenn was about to finish his first year of teaching at Poplar Tree Elementary, where he taught special-ed students in kindergarten through third grade.
Legislators Honored
Dulles Corridor Rail Association honors delegates, senators who helped provide Phase 2 funding.
HB2313 Supporters Helped Provide $300 Million for Phase 2: Senate of Virginia George L. Barker, Charles J. Colgan, Adam P. Ebbin, Barbara A. Favola, Mark R. Herring, Janet D. Howell, David W. Marsden, Linda T. Puller, Richard L. Saslaw Virginia House of Delegates David B. Albo, Robert H. Brink, David L. Bulova, Eileen Filler-Corn, Thomas A. Greason, Charniele L. Herring, Patrick A. Hope, Mark L. Keam, Kaye Kory, Robert K. Krupicka, James M. LeMunyon, Alfonso H. Lopez, Joe T. May, Randall J. Minchew, Kenneth R. Plum, Thomas Davis Rust, James M. Scott, Mark D. Sickles, Scott A. Surovell, Luke E. Torian, Vivian E. Watts Keep up with Phase 2 developments of the Silver Line at http://www.dullescorridorrail.com/www.dullescorridorrail.com.
Local Artist to Exhibit Beach Series At Katie’s Coffee House
Local artist Jane Rader will be exhibiting her “Beach Series” photographs at Katie’s Coffee House at 760 Walker Road in Great Falls during the month of July. The digital images on canvas feature beach scenes in a contemporary, impressionistic style. As a painter and graphic designer, Rader’s soft focus style of photography allows the artist to paint with her camera. Her beach series was photographed in 2010 along the coast of Virginia.
Paving ‘Virginia’s Road to the Future’
Transportation Authority solicits public input on first year of proposed projects.
City Hall in the City of Fairfax was the location of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) June 20 Open House and Public Hearing, seeking public opinion on proposed regional transportation projects. The Authority was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 2002 to provide a common voice for all Northern Virginia stakeholders on transportation and related issues. The Authority is made up of representatives from the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William, the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park, and one representative for the towns of Herndon, Leesburg, Purcellville, Dumfries and Vienna. The group also includes several members of the Virginia Assembly, governor appointees and non-voting representatives from the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Department of Rail and Public Transportation.
MPO Christopher “Chris” Shaver Receives Respect for Law Award
The Vienna Optimist Club held their annual banquet to honor the 2013 Charles A. Robinson Respect for Law Enforcement Award recipients Thursday, June 20 at the Marco Polo Restaurant in Vienna. MPO Christopher “Chris” Shaver was chosen as the Town of Vienna Police Department’s Optimist Club award winner. This award is given annually to one Vienna Police officer and one Fairfax County Police officer after having been nominated by their respective commanders.
Monks Make Mandala at Unity of Fairfax
Sacred dances, chanting, lectures and mandala creation will all take place at Unity of Fairfax, 2854 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. For information on tickets, visit www.unityoffairfax.org or call the Unity of Fairfax office at 703-281-1767.
Going Beyond Limits
Singer-songwriter Luke Brindley releases two new albums at Jammin Java.
Singer-songwriter Luke Brindley held his double-album release party at Jammin Java in Vienna on Friday, June 21. Brindley, who resides in Reston, performed music for friends and local fans off of the two albums he is simultaneously releasing at the restaurant and music venue, which he co-owns with his brothers.
Letter: Legislation to Harass Impoverished Virginians
Does the "Every Child Matters” mantra by Virginia legislators apply to all Virginia children except for those receiving benefits via TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)?
Total Health Concepts Opens in Vienna
Local residents, current clients and friends celebrated the grand opening of Total Health Concepts of Vienna on June 8, enjoying a sampling of the company’s services, nutritious grilled food, and a moon bounce for children. Total Health Concepts integrates nutrition counseling, fitness training, relationship coaching, and therapy in a multifaceted approach to help people live healthy lives and find personal fulfillment.
Rotary Club of Vienna Honors Members
2013-2014 Board of Directors installed, outstanding members honored.
The Rotary Club of Vienna, which, during the past year, donated $168,000 to local schools, nonprofits and the Town of Vienna, installed its 2013-2014 slate of officers at a banquet program on June 19. More than 80 guests attended as members of the service club were honored for outstanding participation.
Viewpoints from Vienna on the Green Concert Series
What do you like most about Vienna on the Green?
What do you like most about Vienna on the Green?
Vienna Community Gathers on The Town Green
Free concert series on Town Green features a range of music genres from rock to blues.
A summer tradition for many Vienna residents, The Concert Series at the Town Green, 144 Maple Ave. E., hosts a variety of free family-friendly concerts most Friday and Sunday nights. “We come here every year,” said June Terry of Vienna.
Week in McLean
Used Book Collection Continues
The McLean Area American Association of University Women’s (AAUW) Annual Used Book Collection is Saturday, June 29 at the Sun Trust Bank, 515 Maple Ave., Vienna, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The final collection dates are also at the Sun Trust Bank on July 20 and Aug. 10. All kinds of books in good condition, especially children’s books and DVDs are needed for its 44th annual Book Sale.
495 Express Lanes Speed Limit Increases to 65 mph
While the speed limit on the 495 Express Lanes is now 65 mph, the speed limit on the mainline Beltway lanes will remain 55 mph. Drivers traveling on the Express Lanes will now see new regulatory on-road signs reflecting the speed increase on the left side of the roadway.
Weichert Realtors Recognize McLean/Dolley Madison Office
Bruce L. Green, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors, announced the McLean/Dolley Madison office was recognized for outstanding performance in May. The office led the entire company in dollar volume, the company and the region in resale dollar volume, as well as the region, which comprises offices throughout Fairfax, Loudoun, Fauquier and Delaware counties, for new home dollar volume, resales and resale revenue units.
St. Luke Pastor to Celebrate 40th Anniversary of Ordination to Priesthood
Father David L. Martin, newly appointed pastor of St. Luke Parish in McLean, will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of his Ordination to Priesthood on June 30. The Most Reverend Paul S. Loverde, Bishop of Arlington, appointed Father David L. Martin as the new pastor of Saint Luke Parish (4625 parishioners) effective June 29, 2011.
Blue Lightning Wins Softball City Series
Stella & Dot's Blue Lightning won the McLean Little League AA Softball City Series Saturday under manager Greg Kutz.
Two Area Residents Elected to Hope Connections Board
Hope Connections for Cancer Support, the local nonprofit organization whose mission is to help people with cancer and their loved ones deal with the emotional and physical impact of the disease, has elected four new members to its Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is made up of 19 members; the four new members include two from Fairfax County: Sharon Glickman and James J. Lynch, Ph.D.
Head of The Langley School Retires After 13 Years
This month, Doris Cottam will retire from her position as head of school at The Langley School, an independent school in McLean serving nearly 500 students in preschool to eighth grade. During her 13 years as head of school, Cottam transformed The Langley School financially, strategically, programmatically and culturally into a professional, sustainable model for the 21st century—all while embracing and maintaining the school’s community-based roots. When she retires at the end of June, she will leave behind a legacy of growth and financial stability that will successfully propel Langley into its eighth decade.
Claude Moore Colonial Farm Announces 40th Year of Operations
Museum and working farm has served more than 2 million visitors since 1973.
The Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run is celebrating 40 years of operations in 2013. The living history museum and privately operated National Park portrays family life on a pre-Revolutionary War era working farm in Northern Virginia. Through interactive educational programs, special events, internships and more The Claude Moore Colonial Farm furthers understanding of everyday living and agriculture in late 18th century Virginia. Over 2,000,000 visitors across the U.S. and internationally have visited the museum and farm since its founding in 1973.
Week in Great Falls
Starshine Theater to Present Summer Camp Production
Starshine Theater of Great Falls is enrolling student actors, singers and dancers, ages 6 through 19, for its 20th annual summer camp production. This July, the student cast presents the original musical drama, "The Dragons of Darkmoor: How Magic Came Into The World."
Monday, June 24
Housing’s Roaring Rebound?
Pent-up demand creates seller’s market for Northern Virginia real estate.
In February, Patricia Stack, a broker with Weichert Realtors, held an open house for a single-family home for sale in Vienna just listed for $739,000. Within three hours, more than 70 people toured the home.
Thursday, June 20
Classified Advertising June 19, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Local Author Wins Book Award
The Nautilus Book Award has named its 2013 Gold Winner in Religion/spirituality: “Faith Beyond Belief: Stories of Good People Who Left Their Church Behind.” Author Margaret Placentra Johnston holds degrees from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (BS, OD 1982), and the Catholic University of America (BA, 1973. MA, 1974.) From 1983 to 2003 she operated her own private optometric practice in Springfield and currently sees patients part-time in Alexandria and Georgetown.
Keys to Mobility
Keifer Wolfe receives a free car from Progressive.
Through the collaborative efforts of several local companies, Keifer Wolfe, a local military member training to be a Navy SEAL, was presented with a free Ford Escape at the Progressive Insurance building in Springfield on Wednesday, June 12, in order to replace his current transportation means—running, public transportation, and borrowing his friend’s cars—with a car of his own.
‘Mountain View Dramatically Changed My Life’
Students overcome adversity and persevere to graduate.
Student Ana-Lycia Pena was just about to sing the last word of the National Anthem during Mountain View High’s graduation last Friday at Oakton High, when the auditorium went dark.
Lee Graduates Encouraged to Explore
Lancer Award to Madison Curtis and Nahom Fissaha, Faculty Award to Adeli Block and Carlos Toro.
The 417 graduating seniors of Robert E. Lee High School gathered together for the final time Monday, June 16 for the school’s annual commencement ceremony at George Mason University’s Patriot Center. Family, friends and honored guests were in attendance to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s seniors as they received recognition, rewards and finally, their diplomas.
Spartans Come Together for a Bittersweet Last Time
West Springfield High graduates urged to be “the best you possible.”
West Springfield’s Class of 2013 graduated at the Patriot Center on Friday, June 14, in front of a packed crowd of families, friends and teachers, receiving inspirational words for the future, as well as bittersweet, nostalgic memories from the past. Principal Mark Greenfelder, a fellow Spartan himself, began the graduation with words of wisdom from his favorite book “The Element,” explaining to students that in order to be happy and successful, they needed to find the intersection between what they were passionate about and what they were good at.
Celebrating 180th Anniversary of Gum Springs’ Founding
At the annual Gum Springs Community Day, a resolution passed by the Board of Supervisors at the request of Supervisor Gerald Hyland (D-Mount Vernon) and a House Joint Resolution passed by the House of Delegates and the Senate, introduced at the request of state Del. Scott Surovell, were read at the community day celebration in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Park on Saturday, June 15.
Identity Theft a Real Threat
Thanks to the generosity of BB&T Bank through its Lighthouse Program, Senior Services of Alexandria wrapped up its 2012/2013 speaker series with a special session on a topic that everyone thinks will never affect them — identity theft and fraudulent schemes.
SSSAS Graduates Class of 2013
St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School celebrated the Commencement of the 111 members of the Class of 2013 on Saturday, June 8.
Calendar-Alexandria and Mount Vernon
Ongoing Summer Classes. Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250. Student Design Competition. Come see Woodlawn transformed from a historic house museum into a comfortable and stylish home for 21st century living. Through Sunday, June 16. $20. Call 703-780-4000.
Boy Dies at Fox Mill Elementary School
Bennett Rill, 14, fatally electrocuted behind school.
Fairfax County Police and Fire personnel were called to Fox Mill Elementary School shortly before 9 p.m. Tuesday, June 18. Upon arrival they discovered 14-year-old Bennett Rill of Herndon electrocuted and pronounced him dead on arrival.
Little Leaguers Visit Cooperstown
Alexandria Little League ballplayers, aged 9-11, traveled to Cooperstown, N.Y., this past weekend, playing a series of exhibition games and experiencing the history of the birthplace of America’s pastime.
A Day to Remember at Edison High
Thomas Edison High School graduates urged to be “doers and not watchers.”
After an array of silver and light blue caps and gowns filled Constitution Hall at Thomas Edison High School’s graduation ceremony on Friday, June 14, the commencement began with Principal Pamela Brumfield at the podium.
Lobbying for Children’s Cancer Treatment
Centreville’s Crossett lobbies Congress to improve children’s cancer treatments.
It’s too late to save her own child. Meg Crossett’s daughter Rachel died of a cancer called neuroblastoma on July 3, 2001, at age 6. But she’s doing her best to improve the quality of care for other children battling the same disease that took Rachel’s life.
Clifton Holding Outdoor Weekend Painting Festival
The Art Guild of Clifton is hosting the first annual Clifton Plein Air (outdoor) Painting Festival, rain or shine, Saturday-Sunday, June 22-23. That Saturday, concurrent with the Clifton Wine Festival, artists may set up anywhere in the corporate town limits, except for the Town Park, where the wine festival is being held.
Obituary: Henley Lyman Guild
Henley Lyman Guild died on Friday, June 7, 2013. His family is thankful for his long life and for many enjoyable times spent together with him, and especially for recent precious moments in his company.
What Students Have Taught Us
Good Morning. On behalf of the students and staff of TC Williams High School I would like to welcome our distinguished guests, our parents, families, friends and most important, our graduates from the class of 2013.
Obituary: Mildred ‘Millie’ Lynn Herrman
Mildred Lynn Herrman,”Millie”, 77, Pawley’s Island, S.C., died on May 30, 2013, at Waccamaw Hospital surrounded by loved ones.
Stallions Honor 56 Graduates
South County High sends off its first graduating class.
South County High School has said goodbye to its first graduating class. The school, known as South County Secondary School until middle school students were relocated to a nearby building last year, held its commencement ceremony for the class of 2013 on Monday, June 17 at the Patriot Center.
Bryant Fulfills Its Alternative Role
Graduation on Tuesday evening, June 13, was attended by parents and friends of the graduates, teachers and administrators. However, it was also attended by state and local government officials, business representatives, former Superintendent of Schools Dr. Daniel Domenech, and the new Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Karen Garza.
‘Man of La Mancha’ Opens Friday
The Aldersgate Church Community Theatre presents “Man of La Mancha,” opening Friday.
Local Kayaker Goes Out on Top
Malakoff achieves U.S. Junior National Kayaking championship.
As Eliza Malakoff raced through the water and over the finish line, she couldn’t help but be overwhelmed with emotion. After all the hours of training, the six days a week of paddling, the weekly visits to the weight room, and the daily commutes to Bethesda from her home in Alexandria, Malakoff had just become the women’s slalom kayaking U.S. Junior Olympic champion.
Scout Project Enhances UCM Building
Scout Project
Life Scout Matthew Hargrove conducted a work day on Saturday, June 1, to complete his Eagle Scout Service Project at the main office location of United Community Ministries at 7511 Fordson Road in Alexandria.
Cox Farms Owners Honored
Eric Cox, wife Gina Richard named Sully Lord and Lady.
In 1979 Eric Cox and his wife Gina Richard purchased 116 acres in western Fairfax County. Having founded Cox farms with his brother seven years previously, the new property was considered by some to be too remote to be successful.
Letter: Train To Help In Emergencies
To the Editor: The National Capital Region’s 3rd annual Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Convention, hosted by the Fairfax County CERT Team, will take place June 28-29 at the Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus.
Student Wins Contest for Literature Letter
Local eighth grader Christine Wang has won first place (for grades six through eight) in the Letters about Literature contest sponsored by the Library of Congress. She wrote her award-winning letter about the book, “American Born Chinese” by Gene Luen Yang. Christine, 13, even got to read her letter recently at the Virginia Festival of the Book in Charlottesville. The book’s a graphic novel in hardcover, comic-book form. It contains three connected stories that become one at the end, and they appealed to her on a personal level.
MVYAA All Stars: 18U Softball Champions
The Mount Vernon Youth Athletic Association’s 18U All Star team won the 2013 Northern Virginia House 18U All Star Tournament Championship that was held June 15 and 16, at Wakefield Park. The Mount Vernon All Star team, sponsored by MVYAA, was composed of girls ages 11-15. The team won all of its games in the 2013 All Star Tournament including the championship game, beating the Southwestern Youth Association All Stars 4-3.
Fairfax High Celebrates Graduation
Commencement ceremony highlights achievements of 585 graduates.
A packed basketball gym with threatening weather looming outside made for a dramatic start to the graduating Class of 2013’s commencement ceremony at Fairfax High School Thursday, June 13.
Letter: Unconvinced by City’s Promises
To the Editor:
Once upon a time, we had a wonderful block, full of everything including our own little park with picnic benches, a basketball court, a swimming pool, a parking lot that dead-ended into the park, keeping our children safe, and a recreation center that entertains many different venues. Now all that is going away, torn from the residents, torn from the community.
Letter: No Room for Food Trucks
To the Editor: We do not need food trucks on the streets of Alexandria. We have plenty of food outlets, restaurants, along King and Washington streets.
Commentary: Vitriolic Political Campaign
Covert Matters
What can be better than putting the kibosh on a man of the cloth, especially if that clergyman is an aficionado of the old time religion? That's happening and devotees of separation of church and state have broadened its meaning. Making progress? Indeed.
Recreation
Recreation
Letter: Help Keep Tree Lights On
To the Editor: I am very pleased to announce that the tree lights on King street will remain on this time of the year next year if we can match the contingency Council led by Del Pepper set aside to use for this purpose.
Different Journeys
Hello parents, teachers, distinguished guests, and hello Class of 2013. Let’s congratulate ourselves on graduating from the best public high school in Alexandria!
TC Is Different
Good morning family, teachers, administrators, and fellow graduates of the T.C. Williams class of 2013! I’m honored and very nervous to be speaking to you all today. A little background: they don’t tell you that you’re going to officially be giving one of these speeches until about two days before graduation. To prepare for this speech, I did what any teenager would do — I searched “best high school graduation speeches” on YouTube, and procrastinated for an hour or so by watching other people’s speeches
Roundups
Fair Oaks Townhouse Fire Fire officials say a blaze last week at a Fair Oaks townhouse caused an estimated $50,000 damage. The single-family home is at 4815 Green Duck Lane, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Letter: Valuing Education
To the Editor:
Many of us will go great lengths in the pursuit of education. Sometimes these sacrifices may be small things for others, but big things for us. For me, it was taking a summer class when I really could use vacation time after a rough spring semester.
Class of 2013: Drivers of New Spirit at TC
Have you ever wondered what spirit it took, what determination, what drive … or maybe desperation … to load up all your belongings and your family on a Conestoga Wagon and head westward?
Sports
Summer Crew Registration This Saturday
Sign-ups for the 2013 Alexandria Summer Crew Program will be held Saturday, June 22 from 8-10 a.m. at the Dee Campbell Boathouse at 1 Madison Street in Old Town.
Girls Fastpitch Champions Crowned
The Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities' Sports Section held its Girl's Fastpitch Softball Championship games on Saturday, June 15 at the Witter Recreational Park Softball Field. The National League championship was won by the Gators with a 15 – 5 win over the Dolphins The Gators advanced to the championship defeating the Sunchasers 12 -8 while the Dolphins slipped by the Force 14 – 13 in the bottom of the sixth inning. In the American League championship, the Hurricanes defeated the Terps 12 – 5. This season there were over 185 girls participating the Rookie, National and American Leagues. The league’s sponsors for the were the Giant Food Stores on Edsell Road, First Street and Monroe Avenue and the Sports Authority at Potomac Yard.
Real Estate Fraud: Two Years Prison
Chantilly woman is sentenced.
A Chantilly woman has been sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to pay more than half a million dollars in restitution for her part in a real-estate fraud. She is Melissa McWilliams, 35. She was among four people who pleaded guilty Feb. 19, in federal court in Alexandria to conspiring to fraudulently take over the titles of homes in Washington, D.C., without the real property owners’ knowledge, selling those homes and keeping the profit.
Bulletin Board
Centreville Bulletin Board
Editorial: Talking, Acting To Keep Them Safe
Reducing drug- and alcohol-related fatalities.
The pages and covers of most of this week’s Connection Newspapers including the Gazette show the joy and accomplishment associated with high school graduation. The day celebrates graduates who accomplished much just by finishing, graduates headed to college and more.
Supervisors Pass Home Day Care Ordinance
Bulova calls for town hall meeting to educate providers on new rules.
“There is a tremendous need for quality child care in the county and we want to help make sure there are a sufficient number of providers available.” -- Board Chairman Sharon Bulova (D-at-large)
Editorial: Discussion Necessary to Ensure Safety
Reducing drug-and-alcohol-related fatalities.
The pages and covers of most of this week’s Connection Newspapers including the Gazette Packet show the joy and accomplishment associated with high school graduation. The day celebrates graduates who accomplished much just by finishing, graduates headed to college and more.
Letter: Importance Of the Truth
To the Editor:
I read with interest Caroline Hemenway's opinion letter on June 6, "Respecting Parents' Roles," which raised concerns with current disciplinary policies in Fairfax County public schools. Ms. Hemenway describes a scenario where principals routinely pull students into administrator offices and interrogate them for hours for alleged offenses.
Editorial: Discussion Necessary to Ensure Safety
Reducing drug-and-alcohol-related fatalities.
The pages and covers of most of this week’s Connection Newspapers including the Centre View show the joy and accomplishment associated with high school graduation. The day celebrates graduates who accomplished much just by finishing, graduates headed to college and more.
Letter: Ballot Access Secured
To the Editor:
It’s been quite a week, working to secure ballot access in House District 44. I am happy to pass along the report, received earlier today (Friday, June 14), that I have successfully qualified for the November ballot. This means, House District 44 will indeed have a good, godly, moral choice on Election Day 2013.
Poetry: 'I know'
I know what it feels like to move again and again, I know what it’s like to see the brown cardboard boxes never end. I know what it’s like to have to adapt to a new environment, and I know what it’s like to see loved ones dream of retirement. I know what it’s like to have to make new friends, just so you can leave them before the year even ends.
Mount Vernon Bulletin
Friday/June 21 Golf Tournament. 2 p.m. at Ft. Belvoir Golf Course. Register for the Fairfax County NAACP Inaugural Golf Tournament. $100/golfer. Rental clubs available. Includes dinner. Visit fairfaxnaacp.org for more.
Mount Vernon Sports Briefs
Rising U-16 Girls Teams Seek Players
The Lee Mount Vernon Sports Club Patriots seek players at all positions for two rising U-16 Girls teams. They play a possession style game.
Centre View Calendar
Ongoing The Airbus IMAX Theater at National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air & Space Museum Parkway, is showing movies including “Hubble,” “Fighter Pilot,” “Space Junk,” “Air Racers”, “The Dream is Alive” and ”Star Trek: Into the Darkness”. Visit http://airandspace.si.edu/udvarhazy/ or call 703-572-4118 for the movie schedule.
Saying Goodbye to a ‘Great Place’
Woodson graduates challenged to remember.
W.T. Woodson High School’s Class of 2013 gathered together for the final time Thursday, June 13 at Robinson High School’s Henry M. Smith Field House for its annual commencement ceremony. Students, faculty, family members, and distinguished guests were on hand to celebrate the culmination of the school’s 50th anniversary.
Robinson Graduates Offered ‘Tips for Success’
Robinson High School seniors received their diplomas at the 2013 Commencement Ceremony held at the Patriot Center. Not only notable for its size, the graduates received over $4 million in scholarship money for their continuing education.
Alexandria Leaders Search for Alternative to Alternative B
City officials to reconfigure design for Potomac Yard Metro station.
For years, city officials and Deleware-based CPYR have been planning to build a Metro station known as Alternative B — a design that would allow direct access from land owned by the developer to a new Metro station.
Combat Veteran Takes on Former City Councilman in House of Delegates Race
First-time candidate challenges freshman delegate.
Jeffrey Engle is no stranger to combat. The Army veteran spent 11 years in the service, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Now that he has taken a medical retirement from the military, he's ready for a different kind of fight.
Northern Virginia Democrats Spoiling for a Fight Against Republican Incumbents
13 first-time candidates ready to take on incumbents across the region.
He may be taking the summer off from his role as host of the Daily Show, but Jon Stewart is playing an important role in the Democrats’ campaign for the House of Delegates this fall.
Wednesday, June 19
Highlanders Encouraged to Do ‘Great Things’
Class of 2013 defines McLean High one last time.
The light above the original 13 colony nameplates in Constitution Hall changed from a gushing green to a Highlander red by late afternoon. Of the 521 McLean seniors who proceeded across the stage on Thursday, June 13, 21 percent of them did so with honors. Their keynote speaker, CIA Deputy Director Michael Morell, gave the Class of 2013 key principles of how to live one’s life. He told two stories about Sept. 11, 2001: the two people’s stories were Father Mychal Judge and Lieutenant Kevin P. Shaeffer.
Springfield Boy Scouts Help Plant Trees at Burke Lake Park
New trees replace mature ones torn down by Burke Lake Dam renovation.
When the renovation of Burke Lake Dam began last fall, many residents in the leafy South Run neighborhood were concerned about the dozens of mature trees construction crews had to rip out to gain access to the dam.
Express Lanes Construction Could Impact Travel on I-95
As the construction on the 95 Express Lanes project increases over the summer, motorists traveling to Virginia Beach, the Outer Banks in North Carolina as well as other points south should be aware that the HOV lanes will be closed overnight on weekdays and occasional weekends throughout the summer, and there will be intermittent lane closures overnight for steel erection and other work, making travel on the general purpose lanes challenging. In addition to the 95 Express Lanes project, there is also a shoulder improvement project underway on I-95 in Prince William County and a BRAC-related ramp work from the HOV lanes to the Fort Belvoir North Area that may impact travel.
Teen Electrocuted on Fox Mill Elementary School Grounds
Shortly before 9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, police and fire were called to Fox Mill Elementary School at 2611 Viking Drive in Herndon. First responders arrived and located four juvenile males: three 14-year-olds and one 15-year-old. One of the 14-year-olds had inadvertently come into contact with a live electrical wire and was electrocuted. He was pronounced dead on scene.
Rising to Boys & Girls Clubs ‘Youth of the Year’
With help of Boys & Girls Clubs, local immigrant student receives full college scholarship.
Today, Henry Lopez has a bright future, complete with a full scholarship to college. It wasn’t always that way, however, and he remembers being a preschool student in a foreign country, unfamiliar with the language and culture, fighting to learn, to fit in, to avoid falling into a gang.
Operation: Ladybug at Herndon Science Center
The Children's Science Center of Herndon, at 485 Spring Park Place, Suite 500, is providing some ideas for backyard science this summer, with a call to young scientists to identify various species of ladybugs in their backyard. The challenge is part of a project, Operation: Ladybug, a collaborative effort between Cornell University’s Lost Ladybug Project and the Children’s Science Center to gather data for entomologists.
South County Middle Celebrates First Anniversary
The new school praised as “cornerstone of the community.”
After just one year, the South County Middle School Mustangs are already charging ahead toward a bright future: On Sept. 4, 2012, the school opened, boasting long, shiny hallways and advanced technological equipment. It recently commemorated its one-year anniversary with a ceremony involving the staff, members of the student body, members of the superintendent’s office, and members of the Board of Supervisors. Staff members donned matching polos with the school’s logo on it, and speakers wore shirts that had the school’s name and “The Only Solution” printed on the back.
Sunrise Valley Teacher Honored
Katie Blomquist named the 2013 Virginia History Teacher of the Year.
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History has named Katie Blomquist, a fourth grade teacher at Sunrise Valley Elementary School, the 2013 Virginia History Teacher of the Year.
Letter: Putting the People First
To the Editor:
Good government isn’t as hard as politicians make it out to be. It’s really about putting the people first. The IRS certainly wasn’t putting the people first when it harassed, humiliated and held up the applications of conservative groups. Nor when it held off on releasing the $125 million share owed to Virginia as part of a Medicaid fraud settlement. It did just the opposite.
Paint the Pub Purple
Come one, come all event at O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub in Herndon.
Prepare to “Paint the Pub Purple” when O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub in Herndon hosts a happy hour benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) on Thursday, June 27. Taking place from 4-8 p.m., the happy hour will bring together supporters with drink and food specials and live music.
Week in Reston
Helping Celebrate All Night Grad Party
Detectives in the Reston Police District are investigating four recent robberies and assaults on Reston area paths that may be connected.
Letter: Supporting Indoor Facility at Baron Cameron Park
To the Editor:
I am a long-time Reston resident, strong community volunteer and parent of age-group swimmers. I am also a nationally recognized swimmer and swimming official. I support an Indoor Aquatic & Recreation Facility at Baron Cameron Park
Letter: Call to Ban Outdoor Smoking
To the Editor:
As a teenager, I really dislike smelling smoke from cigarettes, cigars, etc. I highly agree with Starbucks’ ban of smoking on their outdoor patios. The rest of the community should consider banning outdoor smoking also.
Classical Ballet Theatre Dancers Reach New Heights
Serious dancers throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area are finding a home at Classical Ballet Theatre (CBT). They come to receive preeminent, year-round classical ballet instruction under the auspices of former Bolshoi Ballet star and CBT Artistic Director Alisher Saburov. Dancers enroll to perform in the many Children's Series, community outreach, and full-length ballet productions, where they don stunning costumes and dance beautifully choreographed leading roles.
Reston Organizations Teach Girls the Value of Science
The Girls Excelling in Math and Science (GEMS) Club Initiative, Nova Labs and the Mid-Atlantic Girls Collaborative (MAGiC) have announced a new project: The Girl Makers of Northern Virginia.
Commentary: Bipartisan Approach Needed in Evaluating Legislators
The 2013 session of the General Assembly was a landmark one, according to most everyone who follows politics in the Old Dominion. It passed a sweeping transportation funding package that had eluded approval for at least a couple of decades.
Commentary: Teens Deserve Sleep Before School
For about 10 years, area parent groups and child health specialists have been arguing that high school start times should take into account the body clocks of high school students. In fact, research shows that high school age teens do their best if they get a solid nine hours of sleep. Adequate sleep improves learning, memory and performance in school. Inadequate sleep has many downsides.
Week in Herndon
Town of Herndon 4th of July Schedule
Town of Herndon government offices and services will be impacted by the Independence Day holiday as follows: Town offices—closed Thursday, July 4. Farmers Market—open 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Refuse collection—refuse will not be collected. Refuse normally collected on Thursday will be collected on Friday, July 5. Herndon Community Center—open 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Herndon Centennial Golf Course—open 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Special event—4th of July Celebration and fireworks at Bready Park, 814 Ferndale Ave. Free. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. and include children’s crafts, bingo and family music. Fireworks at dark. For more information, visit herndon-va.gov.
Kilmer Eighth Graders Win Showcase
Coach Susan Bates and Joyce Tian and Pallavi Bhave of Vienna are pictured with Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) next to the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, June 6.
Letter: Young Referees Face Verbal Abuse
To the Editor:
Youth recreational basketball has finally ended. These days, children can play in house leagues from November through final playoff games in June. What they need and can't play without however, not counting coaches, league administrators and venues, are the referees.
Viewpoints
Madison Graduates: Where are they going next and where do they see themselves in 10 years?
Madison Graduates: Where are they going next and where do they see themselves in 10 years?
Promoting Recycling in Herndon Neighborhoods
The Four Seasons and Hunters Creek neighborhoods, both located in the Town of Herndon, will square off in a “Battle of the Bottles” to determine which neighborhood increases its percentage of recycled material throughout the month of July.
Dominion Virginia Power, Assistance League of Northern Virginia Pack Food Bags
As part of their Weekend Food for Kids program, Assistance League of Northern Virginia, in collaboration with Dominion Virginia Power, purchased food and packed over 11,900 individual food bags for hungry children during the 2012-2013 school year. Dominion Virginia Power provided a $20,000 grant to support this program. In addition, 160 Dominion volunteers donated over 800 hours to help 44 Assistance League volunteers feed 1,500 students who qualify for free and reduced-priced lunches in five schools in Prince William County, Fairfax County, Falls Church and the city of Alexandria. The students received nutritious supplementary food to take home for the weekend on a monthly basis.
Graduating With Roses
Madison High graduates more than 400 students, with 94 percent college bound.
Seniors of James Madison High School entered the Robinson Secondary School basketball gym to the customary “Pomp and Circumstance” with the orchestra led by conductor Erin Eberly on Saturday, June 8.
Wolf Announces Appointments to the Nation’s Service Academies
Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10) announced the 10th District’s Class of 2017 appointments to the nation’s service academies, as well as those selected for academy prep schools. Those appointed to the United States Air Force Academy from our area include: Katherine Fitzgerald, Great Falls, Langley; United States Marine Merchant Academy: Rachel Wehlburg, Herndon, Chantilly; United States Military Academy: Phillip Grant, Herndon, Westfield; Patrick Kearney, McLean, Langley; United States Naval Academy: Lucia Lee, Herndon, Thomas Jefferson; Catherine Macklin, McLean, Langley; United States Coast Guard Academy: Alex LaBelle, Great Falls, Langley; Sierra Webb, Great Falls, Langley.
Week in Fairfax
Fair Oaks Townhouse Fire
Fire officials say a blaze last week at a Fair Oaks townhouse caused an estimated $50,000 damage. The single-family home is at 4815 Green Duck Lane, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Levey’s Washington Revisited in Vienna
Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna hosts Bob Levey at luncheon.
Bob Levey’s 37-year career with the Washington Post spanned the eras of Watergate, Desert Storm and the rise of Internet news reporting. For 23 years, Levey wrote Bob Levey’s Washington, a personal look at the region he loves. He shared his experiences on June 10 with guests of Shepherd Center of Oakton-Vienna’s Lunch ‘n’ Life, drawing on anecdotes and perspectives.
Viewpoints: Oakton High School Graduation
Where Are You Going Next and Where Do You See Yourself in 10 years?
Where Are You Going Next and Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?
Week in Springfield
Look at 'the Other Side of the Wall'
“From the Other Side of the Wall,” a presentation by Palestinian farmer and Director of Tent of Nations Daoud Nassar, will take place June 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Grace Presbyterian Church, 7434 Bath Street in Springfield. Tent of Nations, a peace center located on the Nassar family farm near Bethlehem, emphasizes building bridges of understanding, reconciliation and peace in a region torn by conflict. Contact: Mill Olver, 703-569-3099 or beveolv@aol.com.
Cougars Told to ‘Do It Now’
Oakton graduates say goodbye to high school.
Oakton High School’s graduating class of 2013 gathered at the Patriot Center Friday, June 14, for the school’s 45th annual commencement ceremony. With their burgundy caps and gowns, the class came together one last time to reflect on their high school years and celebrate their future.
Oakton Book Drive in Support of Literacy Council
Parents from Oakton Elementary school delivered over 1,000 books to the Northern Virginia Literacy Council as a result of a book drive that was held at the school recently.
Arlington Calendar
Arlington Calendar
Week in McLean
Walmart Hiring for 200 Jobs in New Tysons Store, Charity Dinner for McLean Project for the Arts, Shelter House to Host Annual Meeting and Volunteer Awards.
Orange Line
Summer Classes Return Registrations now open for children and teen summer classes at the Arlington Arts Center. Join AAC for classes covering all subjects and mediums. This summer will offer classes from previous semesters and new classes like Developing Nature and Drawing, a class for teens rooted in the principals of drawing and AAC's summer exhibition Green Acres.
Viewpoints: Marshall High School Graduation
Where Do You Go Next and Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?
Where Do You Go Next and Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?
Summer Camps from Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is offering a variety of camps this summer for tots to teens — and some for parents and grandparents to participate — at all skill levels and at locations across the county. Details about all Montgomery Parks camps are available online at www.MontgomeryParks.org/Camps where visitors can search offerings by age, location, camp type and weeks.
Reevesland Recommended to Become Learning Center
Task force recommends transforming historic house into learning center.
Judy Norton reaches into a patch of sprawling oregano at Reevesland to pull off the top of a plant about to bloom. Searching across the thick green mound, she finds another. Then another. She's trying to keep the plant healthy by preventing it from blooming.
“Flourishing After 55”
Arlington senior centers: Aurora Hills, 735 S. 18th St.; Walter Reed, 2909 S. 16th St.; Culpepper Garden, 4435 N. Pershing Dr.; Langston-Brown, 2121 N. Culpeper St.; Lee, 5722 Lee Hwy.; Arlington Mill at Fairlington, 3308 S. Stafford St.; also Madison Community Center, 3829 N. Stafford St.; TJ Comm. Center, 3501 S. 2nd St.
Arlington Crime Report
The following incidents were reported by the Arlington Police Department.
Editorial: Talking, Acting To Keep Them Safe
Reducing drug- and alcohol-related fatalities.
Next week’s Arlington Connection will capture the joy and accomplishment associated with high school graduation. The day celebrates graduates who accomplished much just by finishing, graduates headed to college and more.
Arlington Real Estate Notes
John Plank in Arlington, of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., ranked 204th out of 250 for real estate teams nationwide, based on closed sales volume in 2011, as ranked by The Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends, Inc.
Senior Volunteers Recognized
Citing a total of 26,364 volunteer hours by 308 seniors who volunteered their time and efforts last year with the Office of Senior Adult Programs, County Board chairman Walter Tejada said these seniors provided $618,235 in equity.
At Marshall, a Time to Start Over
Marshall High School graduates at DAR Constitution Hall.
On Friday, June 14, Marshall High School held their graduation ceremony at Constitution Hall. This year, 354 seniors marched down the aisles, in light blue and red robes, ready to walk across the stage to receive the diplomas they have been working their entire academic career for.
Viewpoints: New Tysons
What do you think about the changes coming to Tysons?
What do you think about the changes coming to Tysons?
Potomac Calendar
Ongoing Mommy & Me (& Daddy, Too). Third Tuesday each month. 10 a.m. at Rockville Town Square. Meet for a morning out with active learning and creative play with lunch specials, story time, arts and crafts, sing-a-longs, prizes and more. Visit rockvilletownsquare.com/events/mommy-and-me. On the Square: July 16, Aug. 20, Sept. 17 and Oct. 15.
Seeking To Preserve Local Agricultural Heritage
Fundraiser supports Brickyard Educational Farm.
Gov. Martin O’Malley’s words greeted supporters at the Brickyard Educational Farm event at Glenview Mansion in Rockville on Friday, June 14.
LaRoche Addresses Norwood Students
Potomac resident and businessman Calvin C. LaRoche addressed 53 eighth graders as they graduated from Norwood School on June 11.
Open House Highlights ‘New Tysons’
County presents plans for “New Downtown.”
Westbriar Elementary School in Vienna, located one block off of Old Courthouse Road and just minutes away from the massive Tysons Corner redevelopment project that is being hailed as the construction of Fairfax County’s “New Downtown,” was the venue for the “Transforming Tysons” Open House. Considering its enormous scope, and the media attention that this project had received even before the first jackhammer went into action, it’s easy to believe that there have literally been thousands of pages of documents, reports, graphs, sketches and communiqués generated on the subject—and more keep coming.
Teaching Love of Learning
Arlene Connolly, Spring Hill Elementary kindergarten teacher, retiring after 22 years.
Long-time Spring Hill Elementary kindergarten teacher Arlene Connolly is retiring after 22 years at the McLean school. Connolly, a native of Manhasset, N.Y., taught in New York before moving with her husband, Joe, to the Washington, D.C. area in 1971.
‘Autism Speaks’ 5k Run/1 Mile Walk Returns July 4
Event raises awareness and funding.
Before watching the July 4 fireworks or chowing down on some mouth-watering barbeque, make it a mission to run or walk in the 13th annual “Autism Speaks” 5K/1 Mile Fun Run. Each year, the Potomac Library is the gathering place for this race which attracts more than 1,400 runners and walkers — all to raise awareness of the plight of children affected with autism and their families, as well as to raise funds to support research and programs for autistic children and loved ones.
Dr. Ericksen Joins Kaplan Center
Jeffery Ericksen, MD, an expert in regenerative medicine, joined the Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine team, June 6. Before joining the Kaplan Center, Dr. Ericksen served at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Hospital as an attending physician and as the director of the hospital’s Interventional Pain Clinic and Polytrauma Network Site. Dr. Ericksen also holds an associate professorship at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Dance Out For Jane DC
Irish dancers from Arlington to Baltimore united to raise more than $10,000 for one of their own in Dorchester, Mass., who was seriously injured in the Boston Marathon bombing.
Ryan Cheng Receives Award, Langley Rowers Honored
Ryan Cheng, Langley rower and graduating senior, received the Hillary J. Fein Spirit Award for the “athlete who best embodies the true spirit and passion for crew.” This honor is awarded every year by Langley crew to honor the memory of Hillary Fein, Langley Class of 1999. Fein was a dedicated member of the Langley crew team who died in 2000.
New Venue; New Vibes
Taste of Potomac raises funds for Adoptions Together.
A courageous 15-year-old, Arlene Reles, addressed an audience of more than 300 at the 2013 Taste of Potomac benefit for Adoptions Together on Saturday, June 8. The teen told the story of her life before adoption and how it felt to be in foster care.
Potomac Food and Drink
A group of food trucks operating in Montgomery County has a website making it easier find out where they will be. Visit MoCofoodtrucks.com, then click on the logo of any food truck to locate it. The site currently lists 16 trucks in the area, several of which have stops in Bethesda.
Arlington Bulletin
Thursday/June 20 Summer Solstice Celebration and Cleanup. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Bluemont Park, Wilson Boulevard and N. Manchester Street. Refreshments will be available. Register at www.arlingtonenvironment.org/events.
Reston Town Center Gives Taste of Reston
More than 20 vendors show off signature dishes at annual festival.
Paul Jones of Reston has one secret to success when it comes to the annual Taste of Reston festival: where there’s smoke, there’s food.
Viewpoints: South Lakes High School Graduation
Where are you headed in the fall and where do you see yourself in 10 years?
South Lakes Seniors Graduate
Class of 2013 features 104 International Baccalaureate, 119 honor graduates.
The South Lakes High School Class of 2013 gathered for the final time as students at the school, leaving the building that evening, Friday, June 14, as South Lakes alumni.
Tuesday, June 18
New Healthcare Facility Opens in Herndon
Clinic is first in Fairfax County to receive Affordable Healthcare Act funding.
HealthWorks for Northern Virginia opened a new healthcare center in Herndon Tuesday, June 11, the first such facility in Fairfax County that will receive funding from the federal government via the Affordable Healthcare Act.
Herndon Garden Tour Set for June 23
Annual tour features four local gardens.
The Herndon Garden Tour will be held Sunday, June 23 from noon to 4 p.m. The annual tour will feature four local residences and allow visitors to explore and learn about their gardens.
McLean Central Park Draft Plan Presented
Draft plan features new access points, amphitheater.
The Fairfax County Park Authority presented a draft of the Master Plan revision for McLean Central Park Monday, June 8 at the McLean Community Center.
Great Falls Elementary School Students Heading to Japan
Great Falls Elementary students take two-week trip to Japan.
Several Great Falls Elementary students will be spending the first part of their summer vacation in Japan, as part of an exchange program. While on the trip, they will visit various locales in the country, including a visit with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
CAR Hosts Annual Flag Day Ceremony in Great Falls
More than 60 worn and damaged flags "retired" June 14.
While the burning of the American flag is often used as a form of protest or rejection of what it stands for, the United States Code also says that burning is the proper way to dispose of damaged or worn flags.
Great Falls Elementary Schools Receive Donations
Celebrate Great Falls donates to three local elementary schools.
Celebrate Great Falls presented the parent teacher groups for the three Great Falls elementary schools, Colvin Run, Forestville and Great Falls, a check for $7,104.46 Tuesday, June 11.
Update on Proposed Great Falls TD Bank
Final submission to county planning commission made.
Representatives for TD Bank presented the latest on the proposed Great Falls branch, which would be located at the site of the former Exxon station at the corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road. This was the sixth such meeting hosted by the Great Falls Citizens Association.
Viewpoints: Langley High School Graduation
Where Are You Going Next and Where Do You See Yourself in 10 years?
Graduates of Langley High School talk about their future on their graduation day.
Saying Goodbye at Langley
‘Selfless’ Class of 2013 has no problem with the delay.
The 469 graduates in Langley High School’s Class of 2013 had to wait before they could walk across the stage in Constitution Hall to receive their long coveted diplomas. On the Thursday morning of June 13, when potential torrential rainstorms moved swiftly in the Washington D.C. area, a tardy bus delayed the ceremonies 16 minutes.
Wolf Announces Appointments to the Nation’s Service Academies
Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10) announced the 10th District’s Class of 2017 appointments to the nation’s service academies, as well as those selected for Academy prep schools.
Having Fun and Helping Cause
Vorndran and Loving families enjoying great Italian food in support of their favorite Little League teams.
Urging Congress to Help End Slavery
Area resident joins anti-trafficking advocates in visit to congressional offices.
Fairfax County resident, Dawn Turton—who lives in Springfield, works in McLean, and goes to church in Alexandria—returned home late Tuesday evening, June 11, from Washington D.C. after visiting the offices of congressman Moran, Senator Warner and Senator Kaine. Turton was among 250 individuals from 40 states who took part in a day of advocacy organized by human rights agency International Justice Mission (IJM). Participants met with more than 210 congressional offices to build support for strong U.S. policies to combat trafficking and slavery at home and abroad.
Father’s Day at Colvin Run Mill
For over 20 years, Colvin Run Mill has organized a special Father’s Day program for children and their fathers. “A day of fun on a kid’s budget,” is their motto for the event. On Sunday, June 16, from noon to 4 p.m., the park welcomed Northern Virginia Carvers to the park to teach free wood carving lessons. When the fathers come they are given a tour of the mill, and can watch the mill’s grinding process.
Swimming to Beat Cancer
Paula Alford of Great Falls uses swimming as a weapon. She's a participant in the annual Swim Across America Greenwich-Stamford open water swim, slated for Saturday, June 22 in Stamford, Conn.
Great Falls Furniture Designers Open in Merrifield
Design and manufacturing company Willem Smith celebrates opening.
The Washington, D.C. area's furniture design and manufacturing company, Willem Smith, located for the last seven years in the Washington Design Center, has now come to Merrifield. The showroom is open to both the public and the trade, and features the work of owners and Great Falls residents John and Mary Smith. The couple and design team hosted a private opening party in their Merrifield showroom on Saturday, June 8, for friends and family, many of whom came from Great Falls for the event. An opening for the design community is upcoming.
Great Falls Senior Center Hosts Local Artists for ‘Photography for Seniors’
The Great Falls Senior Center’s July event brings together local photographers from Great Falls Studios to engage guests in what makes a winning photographic image.
Knudsen Elected Great Falls Citizens Association President
Great Falls Citizens Association (GFCA) elections were held June 11 for the term commencing July 1. The new president, Eric Knudsen, an IT executive and consultant and a Great Falls resident since 1980, has served on the board for eight years, including two as vice-president and five as an active successful Transportation Committee co-chair. The next vice-president, Bill Canis, a motor vehicle industry analyst for the Library of Congress, is co-chair of GFCA Environment, Parks, and Trails Committee and organized the GF Heritage Tree Census, which identified over 150 different trees. David Kondner and Debbie Copito were re-elected treasurer and secretary. Jackie Taylor will replace Ralph Apton as the non-elected immediate past president.
Monday, June 17
From Police Officer to Prosecutor
Bryan Porter prepares for Commonwealth’s Attorney race.
Sitting in the audience with 600 peers and colleagues at the Spring 2013 Institute of the Virginia Commonwealth Attorney’s Association, Alexandria Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter, 43, heard a description being read of the award-winner of the prestigious 2013 Von Schuch Award. Without forewarning, he suddenly realized he was the chosen recipient of this prosecutorial distinction which is analogous to the “Who’s Who” of the most respected prosecutors in Virginia. “It’s very humbling to know you’ve been recognized by your peers,” Porter said.
Thursday, June 13
Classified Advertising June 12, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Column: Full Circle
I hope it’s not a wrap though. I’d like to continue rolling along just like I rolled into college in late August, 1972, matriculating to the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland. Oddly/coincidentally enough, there have been and continue to be some recent occurrences in my life that hearken back to yesteryear, the olden days of the early 1970s, when I freshmen-oriented myself to a major university for the first time.
Designing a Colorful World
Local interior design experts offer suggestions for choosing paint colors for one’s home.
Choosing paint for one’s home can be a daunting task. Colors often look different on paint chips and fan decks than they do on interior walls. What are some of the secrets to making the right choices? Local interior designers offer suggestions.
Creating Attractive Access
Front elevation universal design solution is both functional and architecturally appropriate.
In many respects, well-executed universal design speaks to the hope that a better world is not only possible, but within our grasp. Certainly the intention is to include people with challenged mobility. And it follows that a good universal design solution can be an enhancement not just for one person, but for everyone.
‘Mr. Springfield’ Comes Full Circle
Todd Lattimer is named senior vice president of First Virginia Community Bank.
Pinstripes. His sharp power suit (purchased from long-time customer Francis Tailors in Annandale) is about the only quality Todd Lattimer shares with the stereotypically stingy, cold, possibly monacled, yet well dressed image of a banker.
Graveside Service for Grace Thomas at Arlington National Cemetery
Grace Thomas, a long-time Springfield resident, died April 19 in Haverhill, Mass., of natural causes. She was 82. Thomas was born on June 13, 1930, in Saunderstown, R.I. The former Grace Lorena Matterson, she married Walter R. Thomas in 1950. They were married for 59 years.
Class of ‘62 Remembers Fallen Classmates
In memory of three class members lost in Vietnam, the class awards scholarship to Sophia Kim.
Senior classes of past and present generations apart were honored on Thursday, June 6 at Robert E. Lee High School for the annual senior awards ceremony. Current students, just weeks away from graduation, received awards from the academic and athletic departments. In addition to these superlatives were scholarships given to selected students who demonstrated excellence in character and academics. Speaking in regards to these honors Principal Abe Jeffers said, “We have quite a tally of scholarships with a total of about $2.1 million.” One in particular was the Class of 1962 Blackburn, Brown and Plunkett Memorial Scholarship.
Springfield Dads
Harold and Kyle Michael of Springfield relax in the park while Kyndra hangs around.
Lancers Show Fun Side of Science
Children flock to presentations put on by students.
The Lancers provided a piercing glimpse into how young minds can embrace the implications of science and showcase them in a fun and educational way. Robert E. Lee High School held its second annual Community Science Day, an event where high school students present projects to both judges and interested families. The exhibitions, which were created predominantly by seniors, covered a wide range of topics, from food and calories to cosmic rays. Young children filtered from room to room, engaging in the activities that aimed to cultivate an interest in the subject matter.
Feeling Special for a Day
Accotink Academy students show off more than custom-made clothing at Fashion Show and Shoot.
The Accotink Academy Fashion Club, led by the secondary school teachers Nina Lojanica (“Mrs. L”) and Fallon Keplinger, hosted their annual Fashion Show and first professional fashion shoot on Thursday, June 6, on site at Accotink Academy in order to celebrate the handmade clothing the members of the club produced and styled.
Mount Vernon Boys' Soccer Wins State Championship
Majors beat Cosby in penalty-kick shootout in state final.
Mount Vernon boys' soccer wins 11 of final 12 games.
Area Roundups
Fairfax County police have charged a Lorton man with two sexual offenses. He is Tabbasum H. Gilani, 29, of 7965 Almeda Court. On Saturday, June 8, at 4 p.m., officers were called to 6364 Springfield Plaza to speak with a 23-year-old woman who reported that she’d been sexually assaulted.
Rock the Pink at Occoquan
The two day event featured over one hundred teams, with hundreds of players participating in the fundraiser. The goal was to raise $50,000 for breast cancer research.
Alexandria Bulletin
Alexandria Bulletin
Alexandria School Notes
New student registration for T.C. Williams High School will take place 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 24 through 28. Schedule registration appointments for students entering grades nine and 10 by calling the T.C. Williams Minnie Howard Campus, 3801 W. Braddock Road, at 703-824-6755. Schedule appointments for students entering grades 11 and 12 by calling the main campus, 3330 King St., at 703-824-6800. Children born outside the U.S. or who speak another language at home should register from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., no appointments necessary, at the English Language Learners Office, 4701 Seminary Road.
School Notes
Saint Timothy Catholic School’s yearbook program has been named a 2013 Jostens National Yearbook Program of Excellence by Jostens, a leading producer of yearbooks. Jostens recognizes dynamic school yearbook programs and yearbook staff who work hard to create and engaging yearbook.
School Notes
The following students were named to the dean’s list at Bridgewater College: Sean Douglass, a sophomore majoring in applied physics; Matt Pisarcik, a sophomore majoring in applied physics; and Taylor A. Riley, a sophomore majoring in business administration.
Military Notes
Army Cadet Hannah K. Martins has received the George C. Marshall Award during an awards ceremony at the Marshall Center, Virginia Military Institute in Lexington
Mount Vernon Military Notes
Marine Corps Pfc. Kaleb M. Madison, son of Kathleen McQueen of Lawton, Okla., and Joseph Madison, of Alexandria, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC, designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.
Evening Star Takes Top Honors
Competing at Taste of Del Ray.
Chef Jim Jeffords of the Evening Star restaurant received top awards at the annual Taste of Del Ray on Sunday afternoon, June 9. Jeffords’ creation was a tomato sorbet with orange zest and a basil and banyuls vinaigrette.
Father and Son
Captain Nick Salameh, of Fairfax Station, with his son Shepherd, almost 4, in the Falls Church Memorial Day Parade. Shepherd could barely contain himself as he sat on the side of the road waiting for daddy to come down the parade route, sirens screaming … then … all of a sudden, the door swings open and the crowd heard, “Come on Shepherd!” The little guy went running to the engine. Salameh has been serving for 28 years as a captain in the Arlington County Fire Department.
Centreville Calendar
Centreville Calendar
Chantilly, Westfield Win Cappie Awards
Regional recognition for student performances.
Chantilly and Westfield high schools each won two awards at the 14th annual Cappies Gala, Sunday night, June 9, at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
People Notes
The City of Alexandria, Alexandria Renew Enterprises (formerly the Alexandria Sanitation Authority) and the Alexandria Environmental Policy Commission have announced that Danielle Fidler is the winner of this year’s Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award.
Tavern 64, A New Taste in Town Center
Recalling the tradition of legendary taverns that set the standard for this country’s restaurant and hospitality industry, Tavern 64 Regional Kitchen debuted at Reston Town Center Tuesday, June 4. In the ground floor of the Hyatt Regency Reston, Tavern 64 occupies the corner of Presidents and Market Streets.
Historic Alexandria Foundation Hosts Garden Party
The Historic Alexandria Foundation held its annual meeting and garden party on Sunday afternoon, June 9, in the garden of Sally Murray.
‘Bird Doctors’ Come to Lake Anne Elementary
Neighborhood Nest Watch Program involves students in banding local birds.
Throughout the last two weeks, the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center has sent ornithologists to Lake Anne Elementary School to teach all grade levels about birds. An ornithologist is a scientist that studies the health and habitat of birds. They capture birds and measure the legs for bone growth and the length of the feathers. These measurements, along with the weight, indicate the health of the bird. They also study the habitats of birds, which may be an indicator of the health of the birds in the area.
Commentary: Speeding Leads to Driving School Refresher Class
OK, I admit it. I was sentenced to driving school by a Wytheville County judge for speeding on Interstate 81. Yikes.
‘This Doesn’t Work for Us’
Pleasant Valley/Braddock roundabout: To be or not to be?
As far as the folks at VDOT are concerned, a roundabout at the intersection of Pleasant Valley and Braddock roads in Centreville is a swell idea.
‘Twentieth Century’ a wild ride at LTA
Oscar Jaffe has a problem. Following a string of flops, the theatrical impresario is desperate to find a financial backer, a hot script and a dazzling leading lady. He finds all three aboard the Twentieth Century, a luxury train and the latest comedy farce now playing at The Little Theatre of Alexandria.
Miracle League Ends Season with Festivities
The 2013 Spring Miracle Baseball League completed its season June 1 at the Kelley Cares Miracle Field with Uncle Slam from the Potomac Nationals baseball team on hand for the closing game festivities.
Alliance Offers Summer Workshops
The Alliance Theatre has a 10-year tradition of working with young people in the arts, and it’s continuing this summer.
Letter: Alexandria’s Gentrification
Letter to the Editor:
On June 6, the Giant Food stores located on Beauregard Street and at Bradlee Shopping Center closed. A little less than six months prior, ditto for the Magruders in Seminary Plaza, when the local chain went out of business. And there was nary a word of lamentation in the local press.
Letter: Thoughts on Food Trucks
Letter to the Editor:
These are some thoughts and questions on the advent of food trucks in Alexandria.
Alexandria Business Notes
John McManus, senior vice president, Community Banking for Virginia Commerce Bank, was named Committee Chairman of the Year for 2012 from the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.
Letter: Haig’s Statement Was Distorted
Letter to the Editor:
In the June 6-12 Gazette Packet, Katy Cannady challenged Councilmember Justin Wilson for "jokingly addressing Vice Mayor Alison Silverberg as 'Alexander Haig' while she was presiding at a Council meeting" during the Mayor's brief absence.
Letter: Lack of Transparency
Letter to the Editor:
At the last meeting of the Federation of Civic Associations, I was flabbergasted that a long-time and well-respected city employee had been tapped by the city manager to present a new concept which endorsed putting food trucks on our already overly crowded streets.
Alexandria Calendar of Events
Ongoing Summer Classes. Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250. Theater Performance. MetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St., presents “Ghost-Writer.” Performances are Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. through Sunday, June 16. Tickets are $45-$55; $25/student. Visit www.metrostage.org or 703-548-9044 for tickets.
Commentary: Measure of Being Poor in Virginia
I have always maintained that the poor in Northern Virginia are worse off than others living in less affluent parts of the state because the cost of living is higher in this region. The difference can be most clearly seen in the cost of housing; and there have been many notable efforts on the part of local governments to increase the stock of workforce, affordable housing. The traffic coming into Northern Virginia from the west and south is made up largely of people who cannot afford housing in the area.
Firefighters Praise Two Jefferson-Houston Students
Jefferson-Houston students receive AFD certificate of appreciation
Firefighters from Stations 208 and 209 paid a visit to Jefferson-Houston Elementary School June 12 to present a certificate of appreciation to a brother and sister for their composed handling of a 911 emergency call during a life-threatening situation.
Wheel Day in North Ridge
North Ridge Citizens' Association hosted the Annual Wheel Day parade on Sunday afternoon, May 26 on Old Dominion Drive in Beverly Hills.
Neighborhoods
Taylor Run
WHISTLE-BLOWING Current news about a whistle-blower reminds me of my brief appearance in that role many years ago (BC — Before Computers) when I surprised myself, a Booz Allen consultant, and a Dun & Bradstreet vice-president.
Braddock/Pleasant Valley Project Details and Background
The Braddock/Pleasant Valley roads intersection is near the Fairfax/Loudoun border and regularly backs up at rush hour. Surrounding it are Cox Farms and Fairfax County Park Authority land containing wetlands. There’s poor drainage, rare plant life and utility poles that would cost about $80,000 each to relocate. And Cox Farms is in an agricultural/forestall district, which has its own restrictions.
Letter: Reinstate Dedicated Funds
The Alexandria Chapter of the NAACP has been paying close attention to the ongoing issue with City Council and the removal of the dedicated funding for affordable housing and the open space fund. In an effort to express our concerns we wrote this letter a few weeks ago and sent it to the Mayor and the members of City Council. We hope that the letter can be shared with your subscribing community. Thank you for your consideration.
Fishing in the Rain
Friday afternoon, June 7, Jeremy Charles, a student at Hartford College in Pennsylvania on school break, pulled this bass from Lake Anne in the rain. Three of the neighbors with fishing experience estimated the bass, caught off the end of the main pier near the fountain, at easily 12 lbs. Charles returned it to the lake.
Storyteller Ellouise Schoettler to perform on Flag Day
Storyteller Ellouise Schoettler will perform her one-woman show, “Arlington National Cemetery: My Forever Home,” at the Athenaeum on Flag Day, June 14, at 7 p.m. “Arlington National Cemetery: My Forever Home” tells the story of how Schoettler began exploring the stories of those buried with her 3-year-old daughter, Gretchen, and husband James A. Schoettler, M.D., who served as chief of psychiatry at Andrews Air Force Base during the Vietnam era. Her husband was buried at Arlington National Cemetery last August.
Silver Line Testing Continues
WMATA cars continue testing all along the Phase 1 alignment from East Falls Church to Wiehle Avenue in Reston.
Authority Renames Park’s Visitors Center for Hoffman
In recogniton of Norma Hoffman’s commitment to environmental protection.
The Fairfax County Park Authority has decided to name the Huntley Meadows Park Visitor’s Center after Norma Hoffman fro her long-time commitment to the park.
Todds Named Lord, Lady
Becky Todd, late husband Jeff honored by county.
Becky and Jeff Todd have been active in the Mount Vernon community for more than 30 years. Through their work with Todd Restaurants, the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce and many other groups, the couple has made a major impact on the community.
Uncommon Valor
Chamber to honor first responders; Weissman posthumously receives Gold Medal.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce will recognize 21 first responders from the Alexandria Police Department, Fire Department and Office of the Sheriff at the 27th Annual Valor Awards to be held June 13 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
Danger on the Roadways
Inspection team places nearly one-third of big-rig trucks out of service.
It wasn’t rush hour, but I-66 east was backed up as far as the eye could see, as big-rig truckers warned their buddies about a commercial-truck inspection happening on Route 28 in Centreville.
WPHS Wins Two Cappies Awards
Acting garners recogntion
Area schools brought home a variety of awards from the 14th annual Cappies Gala, Sunday night, June 9, at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. West Potomac high School won two Cappies
Celebrating Progress
A 200-person event, organized by the community organzation VOICE, brought together Route 1/Mount Vernon/Lee area youth, parents, and faith leaders to celebrate progress to improve youth recreation facilities and programming in the area on Monday evening, June 10, at West Potomac High School.
Clifton to Host Painting Festival
The Art Guild of Clifton is hosting The First Annual Clifton Plein Air (outdoor) Painting Festival, rain or shine, Saturday-Sunday, June 22-23.
Letter: Why Is Project Fast-Tracked?
The following open letter is addressed to Supervisor Michael Frey (R–Sully). Supervisor Frey: First, I appreciate your facilitation of the June 5 meeting with VDOT (Bud Siegel) to discuss the proposed "improvements" to the subject intersection. Special thanks to Mr. Siegel for his professionalism in his exchanges with a challenging group. As a follow on to the meeting, I look to you to ensure that there are prompt responses to the many questions posed during the meeting. I am specifically seeking clarity on the project funding:
Mount Vernon Bulletin
Saturday/June 15 Workshop: DIY Plant Markers. 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road. Look at creative ideas for plant labels from frugal to decorative and then use your creativity to make some to take home. $35/person. Register at www.greenspring.org or call 703-642-5173.
So ‘Un-Virginia Like’
It may be too early for some to think a Virginia governor may have to resign before his term is completed. It could happen.
Letter: Ensure Funds For Education
Letter to the Editor:
Congress is currently debating our country’s budget right now, but education does not seem to be a top priority.
Centre View Bulletin
Thursday/June 13 6th Annual Erin Peterson Fund Tournament. Held at Westfields Golf Club, 13940 Balmoral Greens Ave., Clifton. Tournament registration and breakfast is at 7 am, shotgun start at 8 a.m., cocktails at 1 p.m., and lunch and the awards ceremony at 1:30 p.m. To register visit www.erinpetersonfund.org.
Poem: A Key to Jewish Hell
Gates to open a Holocaust, A Holocaust only leading Jews to Hell Caused by Hitler and his Nazis. The years went by and by. Then World War II began. It was like all Hell broke free Battle after blazing battle. We are here behind these gates. Now we're just skeletons standing where man used to dwell. I draw my last breath right here.
Letter: Police Lack Oversight
To the Editor:
I am writing once again to express my dismay that Fairfax County still does not have an independent Police Oversight Review Board despite numerous past recommendations for the creation of such an organization.
Roundups
Remembrance Cabaret for Reema The annual Remembrance Cabaret for Westfield High grad and Virginia Tech victim Reema Samaha will be held this Saturday, June 15, at 7 p.m. at Westfield High. (It actually begins at 6 p.m. with a silent auction and bake sale that continue during intermission).
Educators Receive CARE Awards
Mayor William Euille and Del. Rob Krupicka set the stage for a lively and warm gathering of Commonwealth Academy parents, faculty, and friends at the 2013 CARE Awards (Commonwealth Academy Recognition of Outstanding Educators Awards) on April 25 at The Westin Alexandria.
Competition sponsored by Library of Congress
Student Wins Contest for Literature Letter
A Rocky Run Middle eighth-grader, Christine Wang, has won first place (for grades six through eight) in the Letters about Literature contest sponsored by the Library of Congress. She wrote her award-winning letter about the book, “American Born Chinese” by Gene Luen Yang.
Collateral Damage
Several cars damaged by drunk driver.
Four unoccupied vehicles suffered significant damage when they were struck by a drunk driver at the intersection of Payne and Wilkes streets in Old Town on the evening of June 5.
Bishop Ireton Awarded at Cappies Gala
Props and special effects recognized
Area schools garnered a variety of awards at the 14th annual Cappies Gala, Sunday night, June 9, at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Bishop Ireton High School won two Cappies.
Misuse of Federal Funds?
Residents sa.y project will worsen traffic problems
Residents who live in the vicinity of the Braddock/Pleasant Valley roads intersection have a multitude of reasons why they don’t want it made quicker by constructing a roundabout. “Once you improve it, more traffic will come down Pleasant Valley,” said Virginia Run’s Walt Dougherty at last week’s meeting. “Then its speed limit would have to be reduced to 25 mph because there are a lot of children and bikes.”
Considering the Alternatives Along the Richmond Highway Corridor
Long-awaited transit study to determine the future of land-use along Route 1.
After years of waiting, the Richmond Highway corridor may finally be receiving the attention of state leaders.
Wednesday, June 12
Bill Kristol to Speak at GOP Women Meeting
The Republican Women of Clifton (RWC) June meeting will feature Bill Kristol, editor of The Weekly Standard, who will speak about “The Political Situation.” The event will be on Wednesday, June 26, at the Fairview Elementary School, 5815 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. The social hour will begin at 7 p.m. when refreshments will be served. President Alice Butler-Short will open the business meeting at 7:30 p.m., after which Kristol will present his topic and answer questions.
‘Urban Decay 4’ at Workhouse
A show of distinctive urban sensibility with plenty of social commentary.
"Urban Decay 4" exhibition. Gathering together "low-brow" art that aims to challenge the tried-and-true, "Urban Decay 4" curator Debra Yarrington has brought together a show of distinctive urban sensibility with plenty of social commentary. The dozens of works displayed by nearly 30 different artists from Fairfax County and far beyond include large-scale three-dimensional wooden creations some with a sheen of glass-like luster, hanging art with a punk culture perspective or with a colorful cartoon-like appearance.
Week in Fairfax
Volunteer Charged With Embezzlement
Volunteer charged with embezzlement, jewelry theft is investigated, utility bill scam.
Celebrating, Remembering and Fighting Back in Herndon
Relay for Life held at Herndon Middle School.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) hosted a Relay for Life in Herndon Saturday, June 8, at Herndon Middle School. This was the fourth year the event was hosted at Herndon Middle School. Herndon resident Sheila Grooms was the event chairperson. At 1 p.m. there were opening ceremonies for the event at the Herndon Middle School outside on the track and field. The Herndon High School Navy Junior ROTC Color Guard performed the flag ceremony, and the national anthem was performed by Shennan O’Day, a Herndon Middle School student.
Robert ‘Bob’ C. Russell, 84, Dies
Robert "Bob" C. Russell, born June 6, 1929 in Elkins, W. Va. died Sunday, June 2 in Elkins. He resided in Fairfax City for over 40 years and actively contributed to the Fairfax community for over 55 years. Russell graduated from Elkins High School where he was active in both choral and instrumental music and was recognized for his musical abilities.
Father’s Day Photo Gallery
Father's Day photo with seven month-old Brian Maloney with his father Dr. Mike Maloney on their first Christmas together.
Madison Wins Best Play at Cappies
Local high school receives three awards.
Madison High’s “Lend Me a Tenor” won the award for Best Play at the 14th annual Cappies Gala, Sunday night, June 9, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Robinson Secondary captured the Best Musical honor for “Hairspray.” Madison also received awards for Comic Actor in a Play and Costumes. And presenting the starry statuette for Best Play was Karen Garza, recently named superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools.
On the Campaign Trail
Turnout for Tuesday's primary was abysmally low, with only 140,000 participating in the voting.
Local Schools Win Six Cappie Awards
McLean, Langley, Madeira honored.
Local schools brought home half a dozen awards among them at the 14th annual Cappies Gala, Sunday night, June 9, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. McLean High won three; Langley, two; and Madeira, one. Robinson Secondary captured the Best Musical honor for “Hairspray,” and Madison won the Best Play award for “Lend Me a Tenor.”
Establishment Wins Democratic Primary
State senators beat out first-time candidates for lieutenant governor and attorney general.
Two first-time candidates had a hard time beating back the establishment this week, as two state senators won the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor and attorney general Tuesday night.
Fairfax Celebrated
The Celebrate Fairfax Festival on June 8 gave a wide variety of fun exhibits and activities for everyone, human and non-human alike.
Students Put Fun Into Fundraiser
The Barnes & Noble in Fair Lakes hosted a recent book fair with a percentage of sales going to the Mountain View High School Scholarship Foundation. The event included face painting, storytelling, music and an art display.
Sunrise Seniors Welcome Visitors For Open House
Sunrise Senior Living’s Director of Sales Valerie Parker, and Sales Assistant Shelley Jennings are always pleased to show off the facility at Fair Oaks on Joseph Siewick Drive in Fairfax.
Burke, Clifton Team in Race Across America Powered by Trane
Team Green Beret Foundation set to raise funds for wounded or ill Army Special Forces Warriors.
Setting off from Oceanside, Calif. on Saturday, June 15, three Burke residents and one Clifton man will take part in the world’s toughest bicycle race in the hope of raising awareness and much needed funds for the Green Beret Foundation. With the finish line in Annapolis, Md. the team will cycle three thousand miles over a period of six days. “Looking at our capabilities and being respectful to the organization and our sponsors, we think six days is a good time,” said David Viens, a team member. “This gives us an average of 20 miles per hour,” he said.
Potomac Calender
A group of food trucks operating in Montgomery County has a website making it easier find out where they will be. Visit MoCofoodtrucks.com, then click on the logo of any food truck to locate it.
Robinson Drama Camp For Students, All Ages
A summer of fun and adventure is in store for those attending this summer’s Robinson Drama Camp. For the rising kindergartners through eighth graders: Curtain Call camp consists of half-day camps in morning and afternoon sessions, each week, from July 1-26.
Arlington Orange Line
Summer Classes Return. Registrations now open for children and teen summer classes at the Arlington Arts Center.
Engagements
Myra Aznar to Marry Jason Simon
Edgar and Virginia Aznar of Burke announce the upcoming June wedding of their daughter, Myra Aznar, to Jason Simon, in Charleston, S.C. Jason is the son of Steve and Karen Simon of Heritage Court, Conn.
Arlington Calendar
Ongoing Food Truck Thursdays. In the surface parking lot at the corner of Crystal Drive and 18th Street.
Pepco Rate Hike Opposed
Montgomery County officials think local residents already pay enough for electricity. The county filed its intervention against Pepco’s rate increase request last week.
Local UMW Student Honored
William “Heath” Sharp of Arlington, a senior at the University of Mary Washington, was recognized for his outstanding undergraduate research at the Virginia Psychological Association’s spring conference April 25 in Richmond.
Finding One's Calling
Local nursing student finds career path during service project in Kenya.
College is a time of figuring out what you want to do with the rest of your life.
Farewell to High School
Thomas S. Wootton High School’s graduation ceremony is held on June 4 in D.A.R. Constitution Hall.
Local Schools Win Seven Cappie Awards
Robinson captures five, including Best Musical.
Not only did Robinson Secondary win five of the eight Cappies awards for which it was nominated, but it took home the prize for Best Musical for its production of “Hairspray.” It was honored Sunday night, June 9, at the 14th annual Cappies Gala at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
This Week in Potomac
Whitman’s 50th Anniversary Walt Whitman High School is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Letter: Proposal Would Violate Virginia Square Sector Plan
The board of directors of the Unit Owners Association of the Monroe Condominium at Virginia Square Metro issued the following statement on Tuesday, June 11:
Senior Adult Programs June 23-28
“Flourishing After 55” from Arlington’s Office of Senior Adult Programs for June 23-28.
Michael Porter Denker
Obituary
Michael Porter Denker, 66, co-owner of Hopkins & Porter Construction, a residential design/build firm based in Potomac, died May 22, 2013, at Casey House in Gaithersburg. He had been diagnosed with melanoma in the summer.
Arlington Crime Report
The following incidents were reported by the Arlington Police Department.
Sharing in the joy of volunteering
KEEN Sports Day gets volunteers from Au Pair of America
“I loved volunteering at the KEEN Sports Day,” said Camila Souza, who works for a Potomac family through Au Pair of America. “It made me realize that I can make a difference just by giving a high five — or by cheering on these young people as they run bases or learn a new dance. I was there to give him support — but he gave me inspiration.”
Wootton, Whitman Win Cappie Awards
Two local schools won acting awards at the 14th annual Cappies Gala, Sunday night, June 9, at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Arlington Bulletin
Thursday/June 13 Arlington Rotary Meeting. noon-1:30 p.m.
Understanding Same Frustrations, Challenges
Hope Connections for Cancer Support offers group counseling, education and inspiration.
Potomac’s Lori Nam and her husband moved to Potomac with the optimistic dreams of all newlyweds — the opportunity to build a life near family and friends, the excitement of beginning promising careers, looking forward to children and active healthy lives.
Schools
School Notes
Zachary James Madison graduated magna cum laude from Hampden-Sydney College with a bachelor of arts degree in English. He is a graduate of Yorktown High School and the son of George and Carol Madison of Arlington.
Creating Livable Community For All Ages
County and local organizations seek to find and meet seniors’ needs.
People over 55 make up approximately 30 percent of Fairfax County’s population, making them the largest population group. Many of that group have chosen, or plan, to spend their later years in Fairfax County, but as they age in place, there are certain services and resources needed.
Rogers’ Retirement Dream
Aging-in-place remodel required a generator, much to relief of their neighbors.
Ted Rogers, 73, recently completed a senior-friendly makeover to his home, with the help of a master builder to meet his often challenging technical requirements.
Crafting a Wheel-chair Friendly Master Bath
Acessibility designer inspired by personal experiences.
“We are seeing more seniors choosing to stay in their homes than ever before,” says aging-in-place specialist Russ Glickman.
Volunteering Gives Seniors a Sense of Fulfillment
Shepherd Center network provides opportunities for seniors to help seniors.
Kathy Tugendhat chairs the Adventures in Learning organizing committee at Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV). She teaches conversational ESL at Patrick Henry Library, one-on-one. On Wednesdays in the summer months, Tugendhat tells stories and leads songs for youngsters on the grounds of the Little Library. She sings with the Vienna Choral Society because she loves it. “It keeps me young,” said Tugendhat. She’s also 80 years old.
Senior Volunteers to Help all Ages
Before heading to the home of the 83-year-old woman she visits each week, Diane Stoy calls to make sure her friend is up for a visit. The answer is almost always yes.
Two Potomac Residents Reflect on Decades
Ellen Breen turned 95 on May 5, 2013. Her granddaughter plans to be married in September. “If I am alive, I am going,” Breen said. Her grandchildren call her Rah Rah. “I love it. It’s one of my favorite sounds. When they say it it really means something.” Dennis Lewis is 75.
Senior Center Enriches Mount Vernon Life
Fairfax County is rich with senior living centers, according to Julie Ellis, Director of the Mount Vernon Center. The Mount Vernon Center, Hollin Hall Senior Center for Creative Retirement, just celebrated its 30th anniversary in January.
MedStar Opens McLean Rehabilitation Facility
New site aims to be "one stop shop" for rehabilitation.
MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital Network has opened a new outpatient facility in downtown McLean. The facility aims to provide complete care for both orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation needs.
Dranesville Lord, Lady Honored
Bob Hahne, Wendy Gradison honored by supervisors.
Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) named two McLean residents, Robert Hahne and Wendy Gradison, 2013 Lord and Lady Fairfax for his district. The annual recognition highlights local residents for their community service.
Reel Potential Finds Motivation in the Movies
Scott DiGiammarino uses film clips to get message across.
Great Falls resident Scott DiGiammarino knows the power of movies. In his recent TED Talk at TEDx Rock Creek Park, entitled "Why Movies Move Us," he spoke about the impact movies have, and the neuroscience behind it.
Growing up With Baseball in Great Falls
Langley senior Bryan Even to play Division II baseball next year.
Growing up in Great Falls, Langley High School senior Bryan Even found his second home on the diamond. He started his career with Great Falls Little League, where he found inspiration every opening day from the members of the Langley Saxons varsity team.
Restonians Receive Lord, Lady Honors
Amanda Andere, Arthur Hill, Patricia Nicoson honored.
Three Restonians were recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Tuesday, June 4 as Lords and Ladies of Fairfax. Each supervisor named a man and a woman to highlight their community service efforts.
Herndon Naval JROTC Cadets Leave Legacy
Graduating Naval JROTC cadets recognized for achievements.
Herndon High School’s Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps has been an integral part of the school’s fabric for years.
Lake Anne Hosts Summer Film Series
'Back to the Future' is first installment.
Dark clouds and the threat of rain didn’t deter more than 100 people from gathering at Lake Anne Plaza for the first installment of Lake Anne’s summer film festival. The crowd gathered in front of a large movie screen to watch the 1985 classic “Back to the Future.”
Tuesday, June 11
Langley Orchestra Presents Western Concert
The end of the year concert is a night filled with country-style outfits, tunes from the Old West, and plenty of spirit.
Langley Orchestra ended a year of great concerts with their Western concert on Tuesday, June 4.
'Snow White and Rose Red' Opens at Industrial Strength Theatre
"Snow White and Rose Red" by Carter Burch will be shown in a June 15 to June 30 production at the Industrial Strength Theatre at 269 Sunset Park Drive in Herndon.
Art in The Windows at ArtSpace Herndon
Artwork transforms the ArtSpace Herndon building.
The Herndon Foundation for the Cultural Arts announced a first time event featuring public fine art panels, each 90”W x 50”H, installed in four empty window frames on the exterior of the ArtSpace Herndon building at 750 Center Street.
Big Trucks Come to Floris
Kindergarten students examine trucks, meet drivers.
The Kindergarten class of Floris Elementary took part in the 18th annual Big Truck Day on Tuesday, June 4, in the school parking lot.
Dominion Virginia Power, Assistance League of Northern Virginia Pack Food Bags
Dominion Virginia Power, purchased food and packed over 11,900 individual food bags for hungry children during the 2012-2013 school year.
Arts Competition Attracts More Schools
Ninth Annual SAIC Technology and the Arts Competition Awards Ceremony held.
On Monday, May 20, The Council for the Arts of Herndon presented the ninth Annual SAIC Technology and the Arts Competition Awards Reception at the SAIC Conference Center in McLean.
Paying Respect to Fallen Soldiers
Around 25 scouts from Troop 976 Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Vienna and their families visited the Arlington National Cemetery on May 25 to pay their respects to the soldiers who have given their lives over the years for the United States’ liberty and security.
Youth Inspire Invites Independent Projects Proposals
Youth Inspire, a local non-profit organization run by Langley High School students, is primarily a movement focused on providing support to pediatric cancer patients around the world.
Father’s Day Gallery
Steve Straker celebrates Father's Day while Tony and Carrie Mancuso remember their father who passed away.
Book Sale Draws Hundreds to Vienna Community Center
25,000 books and more than 70 volunteers bring two-day Historic Vienna, Inc.’s sale to life.
When the doors opened at the Vienna Community Center on June 8, welcoming buyers to the annual Historic Vienna, Inc. [HVI] book sale, more than 25,000 books awaited them. And this is one well-organized book sale. Books were arranged by genre, from mystery and novels to reference books and cookbooks. “Treasures,” those books that are rare or vintage, have their own nook.
Vienna Idol Raises $14,500
Grace Atiyeh to give her $500 prize to charities.
Six finalists waited through “The Final Countdown” to learn who would become the new Vienna Idol. From six, it came down to three in the June 7 competition.
Week in McLean
Church to Host Discussion on Gun Violence and Gospel Values
Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, will host a free faith and public policy breakfast on “Gun Violence and Gospel Values—Possible Church Responses” on Saturday, June 15, with a simple breakfast at 8:30 a.m., followed by the program, ending by 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited.
Partnering to Provide Children Medical, Dental Care
Margery Leveen Sher described the Medical Care for Children Partnership (MCCP) Foundation’s work at the May 30 Hispanic Business Summit hosted by the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Virginia Latino Advisory Board. Sher exhorted the Hispanic business leaders to become involved in this special public/private partnership which provides medical and dental care to children in low-income families without access to physicians and dentists.
Langley Orchestra Presents Final Concert
The Langley High School Orchestra presented its final concert of the school year on June 4 in the Langley HS Auditorium. Directed by Dr. Scott McCormick and Ms. Bo-Min Son, "Blazing Bows of the West" featured music from iconic Western movies and music with an American theme.
Farmer’s Market Held at Churchill Road
Churchill Road fourth graders held their second annual farmer’s market in the school’s butterfly garden on June 4-5 and thanks to the efforts of fourth grade teachers Aubrey Beiswenger, Rachel Dunleavy, David Ickowski, Nick Kilpatrick, Claire McHale and Mary-Lynn Robosky, these 10-year-olds learned about entrepreneurship firsthand.
Scavenger Hunt at Churchill Road
Churchill Road sixth graders took advantage of the summery May weather to go on a scavenger hunt in Steven Nicklas’ science class.
Supporting Reading Program at Lemon Road
The Woman’s Club of McLean at its June 4 meeting presented a check for $1,000 to Karla Barnes, reading specialist at Fairfax County’s Lemon Road Elementary School, for use in the school’s reading program.
Mission Control at Colvin Run
The children communicated with NASA’s Mission Control via a live broadcast televised on NASA TV. The students generated a wide range of questions and asked them directly to ISS CapCom and Chief Engineer Hal Getzelman of the ISS Mission Control Center.
Great Falls Studios Artists Exhibit at the Great Falls Library
Cindy Grisdela, member of the board and chair of the GFS Exhibits Committee says, “The Great Falls Studios member show is an opportunity to see the talents of neighbors and friends in our community. From realistic images in photos and paintings to abstract colors studies, there is something for everyone.”
‘Seussical’ at Forestville
Forestville Elementary School's fifth and sixth grade musical, “Seussical,” played last weekend to sold out houses.
Great Falls Studios Online Gallery Features ‘Inner Realms’
Pull up a chair and travel into the “Inner Realms,” a place deep within the spirit, heart or soul, sometimes hidden in plain sight, and the featured theme for June at Great Falls Studios’ Virtual Gallery.
Walmart Hiring for Approximately 200 for New Tysons Corner Store
Walmart planning to open new store in the summer
Walmart will hire approximately 200 people to work at the new Walmart expected to open this summer in Tysons Corner on Leesburg Pike Road and Westwood Center Drive. A temporary hiring center has opened at 8603 Westwood Center Drive, Suite 200, Vienna.
Sunday, June 9
Mount Vernon Boys' Soccer Advances to State Championship Game
Majors beat Midlothian in AAA state semifinals.
Cedric Ekoue and Rahim Costa-Dorsey each scored a goal in during Mount Vernon's state semifinal win over Midlothian.
Thursday, June 6
Gunston Hall Celebrates 51 New Citizens
“Hoan nghênh, Ahlan'wa sahla, Bienvenido …and welcome” said First Regent of Gunston Hall Wylie Raab in her closing remarks on May 25 at Gunston Hall.
Alexandria and Mount Vernon Events Calendar
Alexandria and Mount Vernon Events Calendar
Arlington Bulletin
Ongoing Art Exhibi. See “Options 2013” presented by the Washington Project for the Arts through Sunday, June 9. Visit www.arlingtonartscenter.org/options for more.
Calender
Ongoing The Airbus IMAX Theater at National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air & Space Museum Parkway, is showing movies including “Hubble,” “Fighter Pilot,” “Space Junk,” “Air Racers”, “The Dream is Alive” and ”Star Trek: Into the Darkness”. Visit http://airandspace.si.edu/udvarhazy/ or call 703-572-4118 for the movie schedule.
Bulletin Board
Thursday/June 6 Do More in 24. 4-6 p.m. at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 8531 Riverside Road. Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services is hosting a free event to raise awareness and funds for homeless families. Will include chalk drawing, door prizes, music and more. Donations of books encouraged. 703-768-9404.
Military Notes
Navy Ensign Megan E. McGarry, daughter of retired Air Force Col. Brian J. and Elizabeth N. McGarry of Alexandria, was recently commissioned upon graduation from Reserve Officer Training Corps Program with Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit, University of Notre Dame. She is a 2011 graduate of Notre Dame with a BBA degree.
School Notes
Army Cadet John T. Rice has received the George C. Marshall Award from the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Va. The Vanderbilt University student is the son of Julia Rice of Alexandria, and William Thomas Rice of Annapolis. He graduated in 2009 from West Potomac High School.
And the Winners Are …
Cappies Gala on Sunday, June 9, at Kennedy Center.
The 14th Annual Cappies Gala will take place at 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, in the 2,400-seat Concert Hall at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
SFDC Names New Marketing Manager
Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation has named Lindsey A. Doane as its new marketing and communications manager.
Encore Dance Show Is This Weekend
Encore Theatrical Arts Project will be performing in “Style, A celebration in Dance,” this Saturday, June 8, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, June 9, at 3 p.m., at NOVA’s Ernst Cultural Center, 8333 Little River Turnpike in Annandale.
Cappie Review: The Wiz’ at MVHS
Take a look through your emerald colored glasses and see a parade of mischievous munchkins, some soulful singing, and a truly heart-filled production of “The Wiz” by Mount Vernon High School.
Cappies Review:‘Young Frankenstein the Musical’ at WPHS
If you’re blue and you don’t know where to go to, go to West Potomac High School’s production of Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein the Musical.”
Business Notes
The American Horticultural Society has received a 2013 Award of Excellence from National Garden Clubs Inc. American Horticultural Society Executive Director Tom Underwood accepted the award at the National Garden Clubs’ annual convention.
Commentary: Welcoming New Citizens
Saturday, May 25, was a beautiful, albeit windy day on Mason Neck, and I had the honor of participating in a very moving ceremony conducted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and hosted by Gunston Hall, home of George Mason.
On Her Way to Carnegie Hall
Maggie Kirtley Rocky Run Middle School student.
As a finalist in the American Fine Arts Festival competition, Maggie Kirtley, has earned the opportunity to perform piano in Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Opinion: Reflecting on Recent Legislation
Surovell cites roads money and Medicaid expansion.
Reflecting back on this past General Assembly’s actions Del. Scott Surovell (D-44) believes the most important legislative accomplishments in the last session of the General Assembly were: * Passing a transportation money bill.
State Title
Chantilly High's Alex Watson and Jonah Williams won the Virginia State Title for Public Forum Debate at the VHSL State Debate Tournament.
Yard Sale Season
Dozens of families participated in a multi-family yard sale on Saturday, May 4, in Mount Vernon. From Waynewood to Collingwood Road, signs blossomed on light poles directing shoppers to the next sale.
Koons, DeBlass Engaged
John and Katrina Koons of Centreville have announced the engagement of their son, Matthew “Tyler” Koons, of Centreville, to Allison Jacobs DeBlass, of Williamsburg.
Letters: Act of Goodwill
When I was driving to work this morning (Thursday, May 30) around 8:15 a.m., three young adults had stopped traffic in both directions on the George Washington Parkway just north of the Shell Station and south of Old Town. Sitting in this back-up
Letter:Candidacy Offered
Del. Scott Surovell (D-44) is expected to be re-elected in November, and rumor has it, the Republicans do not intend to oppose.
Bulletin Board
Overcome your fear of public speaking in a proven program that has helped thousands over the last 89 years.
Letter: Who Speaks For Majority?
To the Editor: Mary Jo Detweiler's letter [“Nothing Secret about Friends Group”] in last week's Gazette characterized my letters as "rants." Since my letters typically provide documented facts, they are hardly "rants."
Encouraging Volunteers
The Mount Vernon Democrats held an event on May 15 at Pane e Vino Ristorante in Lorton to get their volunteers focused on this year's elections
Tour on Phone
Hollin Meadows Elementary School was recently awarded the Judges Award for creating an application for smart phones of a tour of the school garden
At Ribbon-Cutting
Military Child Education Coalition board member Patricia Shinseki distributes MCEC coins to Mount Vernon High School students.
Review: CHS’s ‘You Can't Take It With You’
As father makes fireworks in the basement, xylophone rings through the living room, mom writes her latest play, Essie learns to dance and Grandpa saunters in after a day at the circus. Just a typical day at home for the Sycamore family in 1930s New York City.
A Thousand Dresses
Princess for a Night got underway at West Potomac High School last month with gifts and donations of at least a thousand gowns, dresses, shoes, clutch bags and cosmetics for the prom season.
CPMSAC Presents 28th Annual Youth Awards Program
Before the start of Saturday’s 28th annual Youth Motivation and Academic Awards program for middle- and high-school students, Johnny Nelson texted his two grown children.
‘Ghost-Writer’ Extended to June 16
Playwright joins cast for Talk Back.
Michael Hollinger, the playwright behind “Ghost-Writer,” paid a visit to Alexandria to see the MetroStage production of his play and participate in a Talk Back following the June 1 performance.
Two Students Win Best in Show Awards
Students Shine in Ceramics Competition
Centreville High School students won three of the 15 awards presented recently at an annual, high-school ceramics competition sponsored by The Clay Connection. These included two out of the three Best in Show honors.
Roundups
Certified technicians from the Sully District Police Station will perform free, child safety carseat inspections Thursday, June 6, from 5-8:30 p.m., at the station, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly. No appointment is necessary. But residents should install the child safety seats themselves so technicians may properly inspect and adjust them, as needed.
Free EKGs in Lopynski’s Honor
On April 26, 2009, Ryan Lopynski was a freshman at Virginia Tech who’d come home to Clifton’s Hampton Chase community to visit his family and seek a summer job. But he collapsed at home and suffered a fatal heart attack.
Eyes on the Prize: Angel Fund Goals
Angel Fund President Lu Ann McNabb thought of Reema Samaha as a daughter so, for her, the annual Remembrance Cabaret for Reema is personal. It also raises money for a cause hoping to help young people deal with mental-health issues, thereby averting any future tragedies like the one at Virginia Tech.
Panel to Evaluate Middle Schools
School Board creates committee to take a look at reorganization.
Consider the scenario: Two eight-grade students get into a fight in the cafeteria of Hammond Middle School.
Dreams Taken Away: Julian Dawkins Remembered as Hard Worker with Sense of Humor
Arlington Sheriff's deputy charged with murdering 22-year-old Alexandria man.
Just a few hours after Alexandria police charged an Arlington Sheriff's deputy with murdering Julian Dawkins, hundreds of friends and relatives packed Antioch Baptist Church on Queen Street for an emotional funeral.
Wednesday, June 5
Lake Braddock Baseball Advances to State Semifinals
Bruin pitcher Rogers earns quarterfinal win against Patriot.
The Lake Braddock baseball team will face Great Bridge in the state semifinals.
21st Annual Alexandria Armenian Festival
Market Square was filled with music and dance as the Alexandria Armenia festival got underway on Saturday afternoon, June 1.
Calling All ‘Alex Babies'
Inova Alexandria Hospital hosts Mother's Day event.
The call went out to all ‘Alex Babies;” 650 responded. On May 4, the babies and their families gathered for a Mother’s Day Party at Inova Alexandria Hospital.
Wine on the Water Fundraiser Benefits ASF Programs
The Alexandria Seaport Foundation held its third annual Wine on the Water fundraiser June 1 to benefit the ASF programs for at-risk and disadvantaged youth. “Through our apprenticeship programs, we change lives,” said ASF board member Kelli Back, who introduced new executive director Mari Lou Livingood to the crowd gathered at the foundation's boat building workshop in Old Town. Attendees enjoyed a wine tasting s
The Sushi Bar opens in Del Ray
Sushi Bard for Adults Only Opens
The Sushi Bar, featuring cuisine by award-winning Master Chef Saran “Peter” Kannasute, officially opened its doors June 4 on Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray. With a lounge-like atmosphere and intimate decor, owners Mike Anderson and Bill Blackburn decided to make the restaurant adults-only, a concept that has drawn some criticism.
Focused on Veterans
U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) and U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-8-ILL), with American Legion Post 24 Commander Bill Aramony, hosted a discussion with nearly 80 veterans, business leaders and support organizations last month at the Post on Kaine's first bill, the Troop Talent Act, and the next steps for the bipartisan legislation.
Living Legends
Joann Miller: Encouraging Women To Get Involved
In 1967 Alexandria won the luck of the draw. Ed Miller received orders to report to the Pentagon after his posting as an Air Force attaché in Italy.
Undersheriff Tony Davis Retires
Colleagues praise his service
Following a law enforcement career spanning more than 30 years, Alexandria Undersheriff Tony Davis was feted June 3 at a retirement luncheon in his honor attended by more than 100 friends, family members and colleagues.
Cox Narrows Digital Divide
New program offers low cost internet service to disadvantaged families.
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by about 100 people on Monday, June 3, at the Murraygate Village Community Center located near the Hybla Valley Shopping Center off of Richmond Highway, Cox Cable executives from Fairfax County, Northern Virginia, and their national offices, announced the launch of Connect2Compete Virginia, a national non-profit program to provide broadband internet access in their homes to families with children (K-12) who participate in the national free school lunch program by offering discounted high speed internet service.
Neighborhood
LIBRARY NEWS
People: Vincent Reese
Pursuing Football and Degrees
Vincent Reese of Vienna received an MBA from North Greenville University in Greenville, S.C. where he was a football graduate assistant, coaching tight ends while working under coach Jamey Chadwell and running backs under coach Carroll McCray and the NGU football coaching staff.
Week in Springfield
Arrest in Thefts of Apple Products, A Story ‘From the Other Side of the Wall.'
Extolling Strength of Character
Middle school students at Saint Rita School learned firsthand on May 30, how belief in God and strength of character can carry one through the most difficult situations.
A Video Appeal to Save the Trails
Irving Middle School student raises environmental awareness through film.
WAKEFIELD PARK, located in Annandale, is highlighted as an example of trails that have erosion as a result of biking in wet conditions. Zachary compares the trails at this park to those at Fountainhead Park in Woodbridge. Wakefield does not have the sufficient funds to maintain trails as Fountainhead does, and as a result the paths are not protected as well.
RTA Receives $1 Million Grant
Rebuilding Together Alexandria, a volunteer-based, non-profit organization that preserves affordable housing and revitalizes communities, received $1 million from the City of Alexandria’s Office of Housing.
Column: Consider a Sleep Study To Improve Your Health
If you’re like me, a poor night of sleep can wreak havoc on your day. The occasional sleepless night is no big deal. But for the 40 million Americans who suffer sleep disorders, the havoc can be far greater: lack of sleep can result in health problems like impaired concentration, memory loss, headaches, depression, and emotional and social problems.
RTA and AARP Join in Pilot Program
Rebuilding Together Alexandria is joining forces with AARP on a new pilot to help more homeowners age-in-place.
Potomac Events Calender
A group of food trucks operating in Montgomery County has a website making it easier find out where they will be. Visit MoCofoodtrucks.com, then click on the logo of any food truck to locate it. The site currently lists 16 trucks in the area, several of which have stops in Bethesda.
Friends Team Up for Successful Book Sale
Four-day sale at Byrd library nets $9,483.
The Friends of the Richard Byrd Library’s used book sale soared, providing the Springfield community with a source of intellectual enrichment and literary diversions.
Cappies Review: Giving New Life to a Timeless Story
Robert E. Lee High School’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods.”
“Into the Woods” is acclaimed as one of Stephen Sondheim’s greatest masterpieces, with magnificent wit and beautiful music, bringing the Brothers Grimm fairy tales back to life in a new light. With impressive ensemble vocals, a wonderful orchestra, and standout performances from within the cast, Sondheim’s vision was brought to the stage of Robert E. Lee High School.
Lidia Soto-Harmon Honored as Woman of Vision
The Junior League of Northern Virginia (JLNV) honored Lidia Soto-Harmon, chief executive officer of the Girl Scout Council of the Nation's Capital (GSCNC), at its annual Celebration of Service awards ceremony held on May 2, at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner in McLean.
Letter to the Editor: Tattered Ensign
The American Flag flying on the front of the U.S. District Courthouse is, and has been for at least the last month, in a very sad condition.
Letter to the Editor: Play Ball!
Baseball continues to be one of America’s favorite sports, and games are everywhere in the D.C. area, with the Nationals being a favorite. To bring the wooden-bat flavor up close and personal, come see the Alexandria Aces play during June and July at the Frank E. Mann Memorial Field at Four Mile Run Park.
Marsha Manning Named FCPS Outstanding First-Year Principal
Marsha Manning, principal at South County Middle School, has been named the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) 2013 Nancy F. Sprague Outstanding First-Year Principal. The announcement was made by FCPS Deputy Superintendent Richard Moniuszko at FCPS Honors, a ceremony for the winners of FCPS employee awards. Manning, who was a subschool principal at South County Secondary (now High) School before being named principal at the new South County Middle School in 2012, is praised for developing a can-do culture at the new school.
Letter to the Editor: Nothing Like Haig
The May 30 Gazette Packet describes how Councilmember Justin Wilson jokingly addressing Vice Mayor Allison Silberberg as “Alexander Haig” while she was presiding at a Council meeting during a short absence by the Mayor. Wilson then turned to the audience and continued to joke that he was old enough to remember Haig.
Livingood Takes Helm at ASF
Mari Lou Livingood has been named the new executive director of the Alexandria Seaport Foundation, replacing Kent Barnekov, who stepped down earlier this year.
Protecting Against Identity Theft
Thanks to the generosity of BB&T Bank, Senior Services of Alexandria will end its 2012/2013 Speaker Series with a special event focusing on “Protecting Against Identity Theft and Fraudulent Schemes.” This event will be held on Wednesday, June 12 from 9:30 a.m. – noon at the Charles Beatley Central Library at 5005 Duke Street in Alexandria.
Column: Full of Bread Pudding Memories
Mary* has lived all her life in Alexandria; as a child on Madison and West Streets and when she married, she simply “moved around the corner” to Payne Street. As the eldest sibling of eight, Mary fondly remembers family gatherings at home, especially when those gatherings included indulging in her mother’s homemade bread pudding.
Lorton Hope and Health Festival a Fun-filled Success
Lorton Community Action Center meets goals set.
The Lorton Hope and Health Festival was scheduled from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, but a good-sized crowd had already gathered in the park venue located behind Lorton Public Library and alongside the headquarters of festival organizers Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) quite some time before the first words of the official welcome were spoken.
Column: Dealing with Violence and Its Aftermath
In the aftermath of Tucson, Aurora and Newtown, there was an explosion of interest in keeping our citizens safe by somehow having better mental health care, and providing reasonable gun control.
Alexandria School Notes
Information on students from Alexandria.
Business Notes
Information on Alexandria businesses.
Two Join RTA’s Board of Directors
Rebuilding Together Alexandria added two new board members last month.
Amanda Chandler, an Alexandria native, has served the community by volunteering for various local and national non-profits, including the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria and Foster Care Alumni of America.
Area Roundups
Firefighters Provide Smoke Alarms
The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department is launching “Safety In Our Community” in hopes of preventing 911 calls. This Friday, June 7, at 10:30 a.m., Fire Chief Richard Bowers will kick off the initiative at Station 40 in Fairfax Center to publicize this safety message.
Encore Dance Show Is This Weekend
Encore Theatrical Arts Project will be performing in “Style, A Celebration in Dance,” this Saturday, June 8, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, June 9, at 3 p.m., at NOVA’s Ernst Cultural Center, 8333 Little River Turnpike in Annandale.
Arlington Events Calendar
Arlington Events Calendar
Sundog Productions Opens, Reduces Carbon Footprint
Textile plant using green and sustainable solutions expands and celebrates grand opening.
Think a “Made in America” product that features custom tie-dye, all created in an eco-friendly way is too good to be true? Sundog Productions has it all and recently celebrated the grand opening of its 40,000-square-foot facility on Saturday, June 1. Located at 3850 Jermantown Road, Sundog Productions is the only manufacturing facility on the East Coast to adopt a method of green energy that powers the entire production process all under one roof. By using solar energy, the company estimates that it avoids CO2 production of about 80 tons a year. Jack Levenson, development director from Amidus, a clean energy company headquartered in Maryland, headed the solar installation.
Remembrance Cabaret for Reema Samaha is June 15.
The annual Remembrance Cabaret for Reema Samaha is a time when people honor the memory of a talented young woman who died in the Virginia Tech tragedy. It’s also an evening packed with singing, dancing, comedy sketches and fun.
Cappies Review: Enjoying ‘Happily Ever After’
Paul VI Catholic High School’s production of “Once Upon a Mattress.”
Once upon a time, in a kingdom far, far away, no one was getting any younger waiting around for a princess to arrive suitable enough for marriage to Prince Dauntless. But what could that be splashing around in the moat? A fish? A frog? Or maybe, as they would soon discover, a welcome change.
Centre View School Notes
School notes for the Centre View area.
Washington-Lee Students Attend Prom
On Friday, May 31, Washington-Lee High School’s class of 2013 gathered at the Key Bridge Marriott hotel for the school’s annual prom.
Military Notes
Information on members of the military from the Centre View area.
Centre View Business Notes
Information on Centre View area businesses.
Greenspring Scholarships Presented
The Greenspring retirement community in Springfield held its annual scholars awards ceremony on Wednesday, May 29. In 1999 Greenspring established the Scholars’ Fund, which provides scholarships to local high school students who have worked in various dining services capacities at the retirement community. In addition to receiving a wage, students may be eligible for scholarships paid directly to the college or professional school of each student’s choice.
Pilates Grand Reopening
Studio BE Pilates recently celebrated its grand reopening of its new location in Fairfax Corner.
Chasing Cow Costume Record
Ever dream of being part of a world record event? Join Chick-fil-A of Northern Virginia on July 2nd at the Patriot Center located on the campus at George Mason University in Fairfax as they attempt to break the world record for the "number of people dressed as cows gathered in one place."
Signature revives classic Sondheim
For Bobby, the word marriage is actually a sentence — a jail sentence. A perpetual bachelor, he is turning 35 and surrounded by five married couples who all have an opinion about his lifestyle in the Stephen Sondheim musical “Company,” now playing at Signature Theatre.
Boy Scout Earns Medal of Merit
Chris Mayhew of Fairfax honored as “exceptionally brave and courageous” young man.
Smiling with his head slightly bowed, Boy Scout Christopher Mayhew of Fairfax was greeted with thunderous applause as he accepted the Medal of Merit during the spring Court of Honor.
A Bluesy Good Time on the Pike Jumphead
Columbia Pike Blues Festival
G.E. Smith headlines this year's Columbia Pike Blues Festival, but four local bands start the party early.
Free EKG Screenings in Lopynski’s Honor
Class of 2008 Robinson graduate Ryan Lopynski was a freshman at Virginia Tech who’d come home to Clifton’s Hampton Chase community to visit his family and seek a summer job. But on April 26, 2009 he collapsed at home and suffered a fatal heart attack. Afterward, his parents established the Ryan Lopynski Big Heart Foundation to honor his life and to raise public awareness about sudden cardiac arrest in young adults.
Allison Hunter Wins $2,500 Robinson Scholarship
The Lunsford/Behrend Scholarship. The Lunsford/Behrend Scholarship Fund, Inc., which has awarded a scholarship annually for the past seven years, was started by Robinson band alumni in honor of Robinson band directors James G. Lunsford and Jack Behrend, who taught and inspired hundreds of students during their tenure at the school during the 1970s. Hunter, who played first chair euphonium at Robinson, was selected from a pool of applicants who were evaluated earlier this year.
County provides Office of Senior Adult Programs
Inside this week’s Arlington Connection is Senior Living, a special section.
Potomac Bulletin Board
Information on events going on in Potomac.
Cappies Review: A Spectacle Not to Be Missed
Robinson Secondary School’s production of “Hairspray.”
With bold characters, fun songs, and cans upon cans of hairspray, this production is a spectacle not to be missed.
'Images Chose Me'
"City Skin" A Local Photographer's Chance to Shine
Twenty-four of Montgomery County photographer Gordana Gerskovic’s prints were featured in the “City Skin” exhibit recently in Washington D.C.’s Modern Times Coffeehouse.
Adam’s Angels Hosts 5K Fundraiser
Raises money for scholarships and heart research.
With his life stretched out before him, this would have been the spring Adam Seymour graduated from Lynchburg College. Instead, it’s time for an annual 5K race in his memory—but one whose proceeds may help save other lives.
Students Step Out At Yorktown Prom
On Friday evening, May 31st, students attended Yorktown High Prom in the Marriott Gateway Hotel, Crystal City. Yorktown principal Dr. Ray Pasi, along with Bill Lomax and Susanne Evans greeted students as they arrived. In addition to dinner and dancing, the event featured a photo booth where students could choose from a variety of costumes to take pictures in.
Flourishing After 55
From Arlington's Office of Senior Adult Programs June 17-22
Arlington senior centers: Aurora Hills, 735 S. 18th St.; Walter Reed, 2909 S. 16th St.; Culpepper Garden, 4435 N. Pershing Dr.; Langston-Brown, 2121 N. Culpeper St.; Lee, 5722 Lee Hwy.; Arlington Mill at Fairlington, 3308 S. Stafford St.; also Madison Community Center, 3829 N. Stafford St.; TJ Comm. Center, 3501 S. 2nd St
Historic Building Restored
Historic Building Restored
This building is the center of our village, a historic treasure that brings us together," said Brian M. Cavey, president of Glencarlyn Citizens Association, describing the 120-year-old Carlin Hall on 4th Street, South, Arlington. Owned and maintained by the county, but managed by the association, a major restoration was accomplished over the past year. Initially, the plan was to replace siding and woodwork and to do some painting. Opening various structural elements disclosed much more effort was required. Foundation mortar had disintegrated into sand, attic rafters supporting the roof had warped and the crowning cupola was atilt and in danger of toppling.
Viewpoints
How is new technology impacting community life?
Individuals talk about how technology effects their everyday routines.
Potomac School Notes
Information on students from Potomac.
And the Winners Are …
Cappies Gala on Sunday, June 9, at Kennedy Center.
The 14th Annual Cappies Gala will take place at 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, in the 2,400-seat Concert Hall at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Gallery To Present ‘Brush Strokes’
Opening reception is Sunday.
This month The Art Gallery of Potomac will present a show titled “Brush Strokes” featuring paintings by Millie Shott, Richard Kaufman and The Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Graver's Society of Washington, D.C.
School Notes
The Civic Coalition for Minority Affairs will honor 91 African and African-American Arlington Public School students in its 21st annual awards ceremony. The Civic Coalition for Minority Affairs is a council of representatives from civic, religious and social organizations of Northern Virginia.
Resident Killed in Parking Lot
Accident under police investigation.
Pedestrian Shirley Stearman, 81, of Potomac, died after being hit by a car in the Cabin John parking lot at 7919 Tuckerman Lane Sunday, June 2.
Happiness and Fulfillment in Golden Years
Mental health experts share factors that contribute to contentment
On most evenings, 96-year-old Dorothy “Dot” Brown can be found playing Scrabble or a game of bridge. A retired nurse who relocated to Virginia from Pennsylvania 11 years ago, Brown makes it a point to walk at least one mile each day and takes two Zumba or low-impact aerobics classes each week.
Being Connected in a Positive Way
Supervisor Cook’s town hall meeting found valuable by those wanting to connect.
Braddock District residents were hit by a message as big as Facebook and as ubiquitous as the Internet itself. Their communities are embracing the virtual world to keep up with the actual one. Supervisor John Cook (R-Braddock) hosted a seminar called “Community Communication in the Digital Age,” which focused on the swiftly changing manner in which people interact with one another in their own neighborhoods.
Obituary: Evan Michael Rosenstock
Evan Michael Rosenstock of Potomac died on Monday, May 20, 2013. He was 16.
Active and Prepared
Aging-in-place solutions bolster Arlington senior's decision to stay put.
“My mother spent the last two years of her life in a nursing home,” said Northern Virginia native Connie Sorrentino, who recently turned 70. “You never know what’s ahead. I spent a couple of years looking at retirement homes, then decided that the immediate problem was adapting my current house so it’s easier to use.”
Local magician Brian Curry hosts “24 Game” tournament
Local magician Brian Curry hosted a “24 Game” tournament at Claremont Immersion School on Saturday, June 1. Fifty students, who are tops in their respective elementary schools at playing the 24 Game, were invited to compete.
On Target
Olympic-style archery program at Connelly School of the Holy Child.
Holy Child’s physical education teacher Leslie Whitaker was astounded when she was notified that a 700-pound box had been delivered to the school and was waiting for her to claim.
‘Age in Place’ to Satisfy Evolving Needs
A common “aging in place” transition involves adding an accessible master suite to the first floor.
Many couples are seizing the opportunity to transform their beloved home into a space that fits their specific short- and long-term needs.
‘Girls on the Run’ Empowers Seven Locks Elementary Girls
Creating a lifestyle.
“I would never have become a runner if it weren’t for ‘Girls on the Run,’” said third grade student Amanda Oliver. “I used to hate running and now I love running with my new friends. It’s tough, but it teaches you to keep plugging and always be positive.”
Potomac’s Debi Dreyfuss To Compete in Air Race Classic
National competition challenges female pilots.
Debi Dreyfuss has wanted to fly since she was 6 years old when her uncle took her for a ride in his Cessna 172.
Office of Senior Adult Programs promotes fitness for all aspects of senior life.
With six different senior centers, senior citizens (considered ages 55 and older) of Arlington County have plenty of opportunities to exercise their minds, bodies and souls.
Arlington School Notes
Information on students from Arlington.
Arlington Bulletin Board
Information on events going on in Arlington.
Couple Produces ‘Environmental Read of the Summer’
Publisher cites importance of “environmental literacy.”
Arlington County educators Sharon Gaston and Richard Halttunen are a husband-wife children’s book writing team whose first brainchild together, “Turtle without A Home,” has been sweeping up literary accolades. Creative Minds Publications, a publishing company specifically for classroom-oriented literature, released the book in 2012.
Reston Community Center Indoor Facility Study Unveiled
Proposed new facility would have pool, fitness features.
The Reston Community Center Board of Governors Long-Range Planning Committee heard the results of the latest study on a possible indoor recreation facility Monday, June 3.
Two Killed in Taxicab Collision
Norbert Sebok, 29, and Jozsef Szathmari, 24, killed morning of June 1.
Norbert Sebok, 29, and Jozsef Szathmari, 24, of Sterling were killed in a car crash in the early morning hours of Saturday, June 1.
Herndon High School Step Team Crowned National Champs
Herndon High School Step Team wins second national championship in three years.
The Herndon High School Step team stood onstage holding hands, waiting anxiously for the results in the 2013 Youth Step USA National Championships Saturday, May 25. As the names of the top five finishers started coming in, coach Gary Bushrod started hearing every name but theirs.
Herndon Celebrates 33rd Festival
Annual festival brings live music, entertainment to downtown Herndon.
By the time it gets to Saturday, the third day of the three-day annual Herndon Festival, Jimmy Schwein of Herndon knows exactly what he wants to do. Having grown up coming to the festival, he’s used to coming at least three of the four days.
MCA Hosts Members Update
Speakers share plans for new community center, downtown improvements.
The McLean Citizens Association hosted their annual membership meeting Thursday, May 30, bringing in organizations from around the community to provide the latest on McLean’s past, present and future. Sally Horn, president of MCA, called the last 12 a "terrific and challenging year," particularly in terms of Tysons Corner funding and transportation plans.
Langley Alumni Face Off Against Varsity
Second annual Langley Alumni Baseball Game held at Nike Field.
The Langley High School varsity baseball team squared off against its past self Sunday, June 2 at Nike Field, as the current team took on a team made up of alumni for the second straight year.
Hen-Pecked Arlington Officials to Consider New Rules for Urban Agriculture
Should neighbors have to consent to backyard chickens?
Arlington County Board members are about to either lay an egg or be considered chicken.
Tuesday, June 4
And the Winners Are …
Cappies Gala on Sunday, June 9, at Kennedy Center.
The 14th Annual Cappies Gala will take place at 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, in the 2,400-seat Concert Hall at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Viewpoints: What Inspires Your Work?
The Reston Arts Show 2013 brings new artists and fresh perspectives from across America.
Artists share what inspires them in their work.
16,000 Runners, Walkers 'Ring in Hope'
Reston resident Matthew Clark among 10K, 5K winners.
The races drew in nearly 1,600 runners and walkers to Brambleton Town Center, where members of the Junior ROTC program from Chantilly presented the colors, followed by the playing of the national anthem. The colorful sound of a large bell rang by former Washington Redskins wide receiver Darnerien McCants signaled the start of the 5K and 10K races. The bell was part of a larger display of the “Bells of the Fallen,” which honor American service men and women who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation New Dawn.
Commentary: Picking Candidates
While primary elections are considered to be the most democratic way to select candidates, these elections suffer from little public notice or awareness, low voter turnout and the use of scarce resources that will not be available for the general election.
Week in McLean June 5, 2013
Book Collection to Support Scholarships for Women
The McLean Area American Association of University Women’s (AAUW) Annual Book Collection in preparation for its 44th annual Book Sale is Saturday, June 8 at the Sun Trust Bank, 515 Maple Ave., Vienna, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional collection dates at the Sun Trust Bank are: June 29; July 20; and, Aug. 10. All kinds of books in good condition, especially children’s books and DVDs are needed.
Commentary: A Bizarro World Slate
Imagine a state where the incumbents of the top posts—governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general—are all from one party. Imagine it is an election year. Imagine that party convening to select their candidates. One might expect a confident, party atmosphere celebrating a relatively popular incumbent governor and great unity in the coming battle to continue to hold power.
Greek Mythology, 80s Disco Meet at South Lakes
South Lakes High School present “Xanadu.”
Produced first as an initial-flop of a movie, “Xanadu” went on to gain a cult following and inspired the musical of the same name. “Xanadu” was penned by Douglas Carter Beane with music and lyrics by Jeff Lynne and John Farrar, and to contrast the movie, opened on Broadway in 2007 to rave reviews.
Bake Sale for Oklahoma
Several sixth graders in Reston wanted to do something to help families affected by the tornadoes in Oklahoma, and thought a bake sale would be a good way to do it.
Annual Herndon Festival 10k and 5k Races Held
The Town of Herndon held the annual Herndon Festival 10k and 5k races on Sunday, June 2. The competition had an increase in the number of participants. “We had a great turnout this year, about 250 more runners than last year, about a thousand total,” said Thomas Schoenauer, this year’s race director. Schoenauer has been working at the Town of Herndon as the Recreation Services Supervisor since August of 2012. Both races were run on certified courses throughout the Town of Herndon on paved roads. The event began and concluded at the Herndon Community Center at 814 Ferndale Ave. in Herndon.
Fairfax County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The sisters of the Fairfax County Alumnae Chapter (FCAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. celebrated its 20th anniversary by hosting a Red Shoe Jazz Luncheon at the Hyatt Dulles in Herndon on May 18, with more than 400 guests in attendance. Among the honored guests were members of the Divine Nine, local and out of state dignitaries, and scholarship recipients. Fourteen vendors were spread throughout the reception area to provide attendees with selections of jewelry, clothing, art and Greek paraphernalia. The soulful trio Travelers Band provided live entertainment.
Herndon High Drama Presents ‘The Tempest’
The Herndon High School drama team put on a production of William Shakespeare’s last play, “The Tempest” on Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1.
Plane Lands in Herndon Living Room
Pilot and passenger survive the crash.
Virginia State Police were called to an apartment complex on the 2200 block of Astoria Circle in Herndon at 12:17 a.m. Friday, May 31. A two-seat, single-engine Cessna had crash landed into the top floor of a three-story apartment building. The nose of the plane came to rest on the living room floor of a third-story apartment.
Dominion Virginia Power, Assistance League of Northern Virginia Pack Food Bags
As part of their Weekend Food for Kids program, Assistance League of Northern Virginia, in collaboration with Dominion Virginia Power, purchased food and packed over 11,900 individual food bags for hungry children during the 2012-2013 school year.
Week in Vienna
A 65-year-old Vienna man was riding his bicycle on the W&OD Trail when he was struck by a motorist who was driving her car on the trail. Sensational Summer Strategies will be presented by Assistive Technology Services on Friday, June 7, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services. The Vienna Farmers Market located at 301 Center St. S., the Faith Baptist Church parking lot in Vienna, is hosting special events for children on Saturday, June 8, from 8 a.m. to noon.
Fashion Show Proceeds Presented to Artemis House
Proceeds from the recent Spring into Summer Fashion Show were presented by OLGC Women’s Club members Renie Langan, Marti Campo, and Karen Ryan to Laly Goodmote, director of the Artemis House.
Great Falls Everton Wins the Dynamo Capital Cup
On Memorial Day weekend, the Great Falls Soccer Club (GFSC) Everton (U12 Boys) competed in the Dynamo Capital Cup in Richmond, and brought home the championship trophy. What made this championship even sweeter was winning the U12 11 versus 11 bracket. This was the first time the Everton has competed in a 11v11 tournament (usually reserved for U13 and above).
Sergeant Thomas M. Taylor Graduates From the Leadership in Police Organizations Program
On May 24, 2013 Sergeant Thomas M. Taylor graduated from the fourth session of the Leadership in Police Organizations program. The program was held in conjunction with the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy.
A Shear Madness of an Evening
1st Stage presents "Blithe Spirit" by Noel Coward.
Light-hearted fare has arrived at Tysons 1st Stage in the guise of Noel Coward's 1941 hit, "Blithe Spirit." It is a lovely dessert-like confection of escapist froth and meringue. But its age—it was written during the "keep calm and carry on" times of the London Blitz of World War II—is beginning to show even under the assured direction of Lee Mikeska Gardner.
Experiencing All-American Football Camp
Local players gain exposure to college coaches during camp and develop skills for football and life.
Over the past two years, over 100 athletes who have attended the camp are playing NCAA football, including 48 who received Division I scholarships in 2012.
Maplewood Grill Continues the Fine Dining Tradition
Father and son keep local restaurant part of community.
The years that Chef Paul Kuchler spent at the sides of the classical chefs who worked his father’s kitchen at Le Canard paid off. Kuchler now is co-owner and head chef of Maplewood Grill, designing the menu, perpetuating some of Le Canard’s traditional recipes, refining new signature dishes and overseeing the kitchen details of Maplewood Grill. It was Marcel Kuchler’s idea to reinvent his French restaurant as one with a contemporary American spin and his son Paul took off with the concept.
Cappies Review: ‘Don’t Count on Forever’ at TJ
Running the yearbook, finding a date to prom, and writing a speech for graduation are the least of Lisa’s worries when she learns of her parents’ long-coming divorce. Such is the life of senior Lisa Solheim in Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology’s production of “Don’t Count on Forever.”
Commentary: Respecting Parents’ Roles
Parental notice is key to school discipline reform.
Most Fairfax County parents assume that they will be called before their child is questioned for something that could ruin their academic career, just as they are when their kid is sick or injured. That is not the case.
Monday, June 3
Animals Blessed in Vienna
Antioch Christian Church holds its third annual blessing for family pets.
Antioch Christian Church, the quaint white clapboard church on Beulah Road, hosted its third annual pet blessing on June 2 and pet parents came from throughout the area to have their pets blessed by Antioch’s pastor, Randy Beeman. Any family pet, of any species, was welcome.
Social Life of 20s Revisited
Flint Hill High School’s performance of “The Boy Friend.”
Throwing themselves and the audience back into the jiving time of the 1920s, Flint Hill High School performed “The Boy Friend” on May 3.
Week in McLean June 5, 2013
Church to Host Discussion on Gun Violence and Gospel Values
Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, will host a free faith and public policy breakfast on “Gun Violence and Gospel Values—Possible Church Responses” on Saturday, June 15, with a simple breakfast at 8:30 a.m., followed by the program, ending by 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited.
Brief: McLean Girls Win Elite Showcase Championship
The McLean '98 Spirit Green U14 Girls, coached by Christian Michel, scored a pulsating victory over the Culpeper Comets in the championship game of the Virginian Elite Showcase Tournament (Premier Gold Division) on Memorial Day Monday.
Brief: McLean Galaxy Green Wins Virginian Elite Showcase
McLean Galaxy Green U10 Boys Team were champions in the Gold West Division of the Virginian Elite Showcase Tournament over Memorial Day Weekend.
Brief: Fairfax County Park Authority Completes Trail Connecting Ingleside Avenue and Churchill Road
Residents of McLean are now enjoying a new asphalt trail connecting Churchill Road to Ingleside Avenue at Baron Road in McLean.
McLean Green United Defends Championship
McLean Green United, U12 Girls Travel Soccer, successfully defended their championship at the 2013 FC Delco Player’s Cup over Memorial Day in Chester County, Pa.
Brief: Honoring Tony Blankley
At the Great Falls Memorial Day Ceremony last week, Del. Barbara Comstock (R-34) presented the family of Tony Blankley, a Great Falls resident and member of the Friends of the Great Falls Freedom Memorial, who passed away in January 2012, the resolution honoring his legacy as a longtime Great Falls resident and a friend of the Great Falls Freedom Memorial.
Scavenger Hunt and Churchill Road
Churchill Road sixth graders took advantage of the summery May weather to go on a scavenger hunt in Steven Nicklas’ science class.
The Faces of MCC
Elections give 2013-2013 McLean Community Center Governing Board seats to three adults, two teens.
Five McLean tax district residents have won seats on the McLean Community Center’s 2013-2014 Governing Board.
Week in Great Falls June 5, 2013
Starshine Theater to Hold Audition Workshop
Starshine Theater!TM of Great Falls presents: "How to Audition for a Stage Show," for ages 6 through 18.
Brief: Great Falls Village Starbucks Hosts Live Radio Show
Princess Aliyah hosts “Leopards on the Prowl” on Wolf Spirit Radio every other Tuesday from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Great Falls Village Starbucks.
Artist Karen Bateman Brings the Outdoors in at Katie’s
Virginia painter Karen Bateman is the featured guest artist at Katie’s Coffee House in Great Falls for the month of June in an exhibit entitled “Water Everywhere.” The artist creates oil paintings
Forestville Principal to Retire
Forestville Elementary Principal Matt Harris will retire on June 28. He has been with Forestville for more than nine years and with Fairfax County Public Schools for 32 years.
Brief: Reston Hospital Center Awards County Students Scholarships
Reston Hospital Center awarded scholarships to 11 Fairfax County High School seniors in recognition of their academic excellence and excitement for pursuing a career in healthcare.
Alexandria Relay for Life 2013
The T.C. Williams National Honor Society and Athletic Department hosted for the first time in Alexandria the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, May 18-19, 2013.