Wednesday, August 31
Mount Vernon: Valencourt Scholarships Presented
Thanks to a bequest from her estate in 2014, the Lois Valencourt Scholarship Fund at UCM enables students who have graduated from high schools in the Mount Vernon area to pursue training and career advancement after high school graduation.
Mount Vernon: FBI, FCPD Seek Robbery Suspect
The FBI has joined with the Mount Vernon Police District in seeking information about the armed commercial robbery that was committed at Beauty Island, 7814 Richmond Highway on Tuesday, Aug, 23 at around 11:15 a.m.
A Musing: Youse Gazette Readers
Youse Gazette readers is clearly an educated bunch, so I take great pains to use well gramer and speling.
Alexandria: The Royal Mile
Bike for Good hauls fresh fruit and vegetables from City Hall to those in need.
Seven bicyclists worked their way in a convoy up Royal Street on Aug. 17. Wagons trailed behind the bikes, each loaded with corn or tomatoes or fruit.
Alexandria: Helping To Ensure Success
While local Alexandria children got their haircuts and balloon animals from a clown at the Charles Houston Recreation Center, they had their eyes on the table full of backpacks.
Albright Visits Alexandria
Albright visits Alexandria Democratic headquarters.
After a few minutes of greeting Democratic supporters and talking about her experiences with Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright walked into a secluded side room.
Alexandria People at Work: Recruiting as Match-Making
TorchLight Hire: Number 621 out of 5,000 fastest growing private companies.
Heidi Parsont says, "I've always been a connector. So, 12 years ago I randomly ended up in sales/business development and built relationships with companies.
Alexandria Boxing Club Honors Silver Medalist
Community celebrates Shakur Stevenson’s success.
The Alexandria Boxing Club, at 901 Wythe St., became a center of community pride and celebration on Aug. 23.
Alexandria: Focusing on Back-to-School Safety
The week before Alexandria City Public School opened for the new school year, the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office conducted “Are You Ready for School?,” an operational campaign to increase the safety of students coming and going to school.
Vienna Church to Hold Rally Day Community Cookout Sept. 11
The community is invited to attend the Sept. 11 Rally Day Cookout at The Church of the Good Shepherd (United Methodist) in Vienna. The cookout will be held in the church parking lot immediately after the 10:15 a.m. Sunday worship service at the church, located at 2351 Hunter Mill Road in Vienna.
Alexandria: Police K9’s Receive Body Armor
The Alexandria Police Department K9’s Chance, Gage, XigXag, Trajan, and Zara have received ballistic and stab-protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 ’s Chance, Gage, and XigXag’s vests were sponsored by the Alexandria Police Foundation and Pamela Verick of Alexandria and are embroidered with the sentiment “In honor of the Alexandria Police Citizen’s Academy.”
Alexandria Column: Enter ‘Young at Art’ Exhibition
30th annual juried art show for artists 55-plus.
Young at Art will celebrate its 30th anniversary this October at the Durant Arts Center in Alexandria. Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) and the Goodwin House Foundation are co-sponsoring this event, which showcases the talented works of senior artists in the Washington Metropolitan Area.
Alexandria Column: Finding Happiness on a Dare
Commentary–Rebuilding Together Alexandria
Originally from Raleigh, N.C., Rebecca* was in Alexandria visiting a friend in the ‘60s. While the two girls were out on the town one evening, her friend dared her to ask out a member of the band that was playing in the club. Rebecca accepted the dare. That band member became her husband and Alexandria became her new home.
From Old Town Boutique District: How to Consign Clothes
Transitioning to Fall, here are tips on closet cleaning and what one should consign.
We’re all guilty – That pair of heels you had to have, that designer handbag that was too good of a deal to pass up, you only to wear it once, or maybe even never (gasp!). Maybe you have a closet full of threads you loved last season, but you’re feeling a little lackluster about them this go around? Sound familiar?
Reston Letter: Tall Oaks: More Than Just a Village Center
Letter to the Editor
The Fairfax County Planning Commission clearly showed that unless a court tells them differently, they can dictate Reston’s future. Robert Simon’s vision, decades of planning and careful growth have now been taken over by Fairfax County. They know what’s best for Reston.
Reston Letter: Out-of-Scope Lighting
Letter to the Editor
I am writing to voice my concern, disappointment and disapproval for the installation of the out-of-scope lighting on Cross School Road by Sunrise Valley Elementary School. The lighting is not suitable for the size of the road and seems to be done without advisement and consult of the community. The lights are very large - highway size lights that, again, are out of scope for the nature of the road and residential community. In comparison - there are no lights on the far more traveled road - Sunrise Valley - that carries far more traffic through South Reston.
Letter: Does He Bite?
Letter to the Editor
Well, they're finally over! Suffering through the breathless NBC "coverage" of Olympic "sports," many of which few of us have ever heard of, involving Zika-virus and Rio-mugging avoidance tips, inane commentary, and tedious "up-close and personals" punctuated by the occasional showing of an actual event and immediate post-race interviews with "heroes" gasping for breath, I wondered about the origins of the ridiculous habit of winning athletes appearing to take a bite out of their medal before the cameras.
Herndon Church Ready for Hillary
Episcopal Church installs Rev. Hillary West as rector.
A decade after a painful split prompted by the Episcopal Church’s appointment of its first gay bishop, Herndon-based Epiphany Episcopal Church Aug. 11 celebrated a major milestone in its rebirth and growth with the installation of Rev. Hillary T. West as rector.
Herndon Labor Day Festival Promises Fun
Herndon Labor Day Festival, an annual one-day outdoor street festival featuring live music all day.
Herndon: Goddard School Students Support LINK Against Hunger
The families from The Goddard School located in Herndon supported their children in learning about their first business, a lemonade stand to raise funds for LINK Against Hunger, a nonprofit local charity that helps underprivileged school age children in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties obtain food and much needed school supplies.
Reston Residents Oppose Apartment Redevelopment
180 residents sign petition opposing St. Johns development proposal in its current version.
St. Johns Wood is a sprawling campus of nine three-story buildings that house 250 apartments on about 14 acres of land nestled in the woods off Center Harbor Rd. in Reston - and that is exactly how some residents of the complex, and many of their neighbors in surrounding clusters of apartments, townhomes and single family dwellings would like to see it stay. A group about 35-strong made their opinions known at the Reston Association (RA) Governance Committee meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 9, at the RA offices.
Pay-to-Park System Comes to Reston Town Center
Live, work, pay.
The slogan “Live, Work, Play” has long been associated with Reston, a community that takes well-deserved pride in offering a multitude of options for all three of those activities, but with Reston Town Center (RTC) gearing up to launch a pay-to-park system for the first time since opening its streets in 1990, some Restonians, and even some of their neighbors, have put a spin on the motto.
Reston People: Mina Fies Named 2016 ‘Made it to a Million’ Femtor™ Award Finalist
Mina Fies, Founder and CEO of Synergy Design & Construction, a design-build firm located in Reston, was named a finalist in the “Made it to a Million” category at the eWomenNetwork 2016 International Femtor™ Awards Champagne Luncheon, held in Dallas, Texas, on Aug. 6.
Column: Protecting Our Families
Commentary
In the week that I was in Chicago for the annual Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), there was a record 100 people shot in the city in less than a week.
New Reston CenterStage Season Opens
Timeless songs from Kathy Matea and Bill Cooley on Sept. 17.
Grammy award recipient Kathy Matea is known as an uplifting singer, songwriter and musician. Matea can be a too infrequent performer in the Fairfax County area. Soon she and her longtime collaborator, guitarist Bill Cooley will open the 2016-2017 season of professional performances at Reston’s CenterStage.
New Reston CenterStage Season Opens
Timeless songs from Kathy Matea and Bill Cooley on Sept. 17.
Grammy award recipient Kathy Matea is known as an uplifting singer, songwriter and musician. Matea can be a too infrequent performer in the Fairfax County area. Soon she and her longtime collaborator, guitarist Bill Cooley will open the 2016-2017 season of professional performances at Reston’s CenterStage.
‘Sunrise…Sunset’ by Dorothy Donahey on Exhibit at Reston Art Gallery & Studios
Reston Art Gallery & Studios (RAGS) presents an exhibit of paintings by Dorothy Donahey in her show “Sunrise…Sunset” on display from Sept. 2 through Oct. 6. All are welcome to meet the artist at a reception on Sunday, Sept. 18 from 2 until 4 p.m. In this show, Donahey’s paintings are inspired by dawn and evening skies, and from musicals. “I’ll let the viewers decide which came first in my muse – the color of the sky, or the songs,” says Donahey.
Alexandria Appetite: 3 Spots to Get a Great Beer Around Town
Whether watching a game or enjoying an after-work happy hour, these spots won’t disappoint.
Ready to kick back with friends or catch the big game? Here are three spots with great beer lists — and great food, too.
Editorial: Take One Action to Prevent Suicide
Suicide Prevention Week is Sept. 5-13, #MindsMatter
As school begins, we are accustomed to safety warnings. Slow down driving, watch for students along the roads, near schools and perhaps behaving unpredictably near intersections. Buckle seat belts. Wear bicycle helmets. Avoid distracted driving.
Great Falls: ‘Straight Off the Farm’ Exhibit Opens at Triny's Tex Mex Grill
A colorful exhibit "Straight Off the Farm" has just gone up at Triny's Tex Mex Grill in the Great Falls Shopping Center. Leslie Anthony, local artist and member of Great Falls Studios, has bought her horses, hounds, roosters, cows and various other critters plus some flowers from the farm garden to brighten up your day. The exhibition will run until Oct. 14
Great Falls Snapshot: Karen Roll Exhibits at Katie’s Coffee House
Through the month of September the Great Falls artist Karen Roll will be exhibiting “Reflections of Nature,” landscapes in oil, at Katie’s Coffee House, 760 Walker Road, Great Falls.
Paint Great Falls to Be Held Sept. 7-10
The community is welcome to come watch art as it's being created “en Plein Air” (outdoors).
Great Falls: Saving Sea Turtles
MISHELL: Sea Turtle Drones & STEM Education Presentation held in Great Falls.
On Aug. 20, Katie’s Coffee House in Great Falls Mike Kearney hosted Kashmir World Foundation’s MISHELL Autonomous Sea Turtle Drone and Stem Education Presentation in order to raise awareness about threatened and endangered sea turtles throughout the world.
Vienna Letter: A Courage to Vote
Letter to the Editor
This past month I worked with local students in the community and my boy scout troop to hold two non-partisan voter registration drives as a part of my Eagle Scout project. We held this drive at the Vienna Farmer’s Market.
Vienna: Celebrating Women's Equality
Architect unveils the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial design at Occoquan Regional Park.
To celebrate the 96th anniversary of Women's Equality Day on Friday, Aug. 26, which recognizes the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave women the right to vote, the League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area held a Women's Equality Day Lecture at Gunston Hall in Lorton. It was sponsored by the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial Association and Gunston Hall, home of George Mason.
Vienna: Adventure in Learning Classes Begin Sept. 22
The Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna continues its Adventures In Learning (AIL) line up of classes with their Fall 2016 semester schedule that includes 40+ classes with a wide range of subjects - from a Health and Wellness series to Potpourri and World Affairs to T’ai Chi or Intermediate Contract Bridge.
Chantilly: From 80 Students to 625
Walker reflects on the camp’s strengths.
Lawrence Walker retired in 2012 after being Franklin Middle School’s band director for 28 years. But each summer, he returns to direct its Band and Orchestra Camp.
Chantilly: ‘You Make Friends and Learn a Lot’
Franklin Middle holds 30th annual Band and Orchestra Camp.
Daniel Starykh has been playing trumpet for a year and came to Franklin Middle School’s 30th annual Band and Orchestra Camp so he could improve. Happy with his decision, he said, “My teachers are really nice and they help a lot.”
Potomac: Creating an Inclusive Community
Local non-profit offers friendship, care and fun to those with developmental differences.
As the sun poured from a mid-summer sky, the aroma of beef gently roasting on a grill filled the air along with the squeals of children petting fuzzy fauna such as rabbits, hedgehogs and mini alpacas.
Potomac Brief: Mosquito Control Truck-based Spraying
The Maryland Department of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, has expanded mosquito control services in areas of Montgomery County due to a public health concern over the potential for mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus and Zika virus.
Potomac Brief: Ready for First Day
More than 159,000 students were expected to attend classes at Montgomery County Public Schools on the first day, including one new school, Hallie Wells Middle School in Clarksburg; a newly revitalized and expanded school, Farquhar Middle School in Olney; and two schools with additions including Julius West Middle School in Rockville and Wood Acres Elementary School in Bethesda.
Arlington Snapshot: Frost’s Granddaughter
Dr. Lesley Lee Francis shares her memories of her grandfather, poet Robert Frost, at the Arlington Central Library on Aug. 29.
Arlington: Block Party Brings Police, Community Together
When the community interacts with police, Ashley Savage, the Arlington Police public information officer, says it’s usually not because everything is going well.
Arlington’s Pirate Cove
Tampa, Pittsburgh, and Minnesota NFL teams find homes in Arlington bars.
Most of Arlington cheers for the Redskins, but if you’re walking past Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill near the Courthouse Metro and hear a stray cheer for the Buccaneers, don’t be alarmed.
Arlington Snapshot: 19th Century Dancing
The Arlington House Victorian Dance Society, an interpretive program of Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial (National Park Service), is currently recruiting new members.
Arlington Snapshot: Welcome Back
The Saturday Farmer’s Market in the Marymount University parking lot on Glebe Road has been replaced with enthusiastic Marymount students. They are jumping up and down with signs at the entrance to the parking lot and yelling, “Welcome Back to Marymount.” The school year began Aug. 29.
Tuesday, August 30
Arlington Brief: Juror Questionnaires Being Mailed
The Arlington Circuit Court, which includes the City of Falls Church, will soon begin its annual juror qualification process. approximately 35,000 Juror questionnaires will be mailed in early September to randomly selected residents of Arlington and the City of Falls Church.
Arlington Brief: IRS Phone Scam Targets Residents
The Arlington County Police Department is warning the public about an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) telephone scam targeting residents.
Arlington Brief: Police Test Body Cameras
The Arlington County Police Department have launched a test and evaluation of three Body Worn Camera (BWC) systems.
Friday, August 26
Herndon Labor Day Festival Promises Fun
Wine, craft brew tasting and live music all day.
Herndon Labor Day Festival, an annual one-day outdoor street festival featuring live music all day, Virginia wineries, local craft brews, a craft show, sponsorship gallery, and a variety of food vendors will be held on Monday, Sept. 5, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Downtown Herndon and Herndon Municipal Center Lawn, 777 Lynn Street, Herndon.
Herndon Area Nonprofits: Making Community Work
GrandInvolve is recruiting older adults as volunteers who would like to become mentors, reading and math helpers, and classroom helpers.
Reston/Herndon: Vibrant City Living, Small Town Life
Living in the Reston-Herndon area means you don’t have to pick just one!
Despite the fierce Herndon-South Lakes high schools rivalry, Herndonites and Restonians have more in common than they do differences. Not the least of which, residents from both towns share a lively and vibrant social scene.
Reston/Herndon: Everyone Counts in Hunter Mill
Every good community stems from those who work hard to make the community the best version of itself.
Reston Community Notes
Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne Plaza, founded in 1998, is sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority.
Reston Column: Leaving Vacation Behind, Into the Campaign
Independent Progressive
Hard to believe that August is almost done. Does that mean the wall-to-wall 90 to 100 degree days are about to end? Does it also mean that Labor Day is upon us and the U.S. presidential campaign is about to officially begin?! I can’t wait!
Reston Column: No Time to Lose
Commentary
“Our Nation is at risk,” thus began a report on schools given to President Ronald Reagan in 1983.
Reston: GRACE to Present Shih Chieh Huang’s Synthetic Transformations
The Greater Reston Arts Center will present Synthetic Transformations, a dynamic gallery experience by multimedia artist and 2014 TED Talk Fellow Shih Chieh Huang, sponsored by Leidos and the Arts Council of Fairfax County.
Reston Area Nonprofits: Making Community Work
Reston nonprofits
Rescue Reston to Hold 2nd Annual Golf Tournament
On Monday, Oct. 3 Rescue Reston will hold its 2nd annual fundraising golf tournament at Reston National Golf Course. Rescue Reston is the citizens’ organization created four years ago to prevent Northwestern Mutual’s plans to destroy 166 acres of recreational open space in Reston.
Historic Night for Great Falls Grange
Eleven Great Falls organizations to present vision for community use of Grange to Supervisor John Foust in September.
Eleven Great Falls organizations reconvened last Wednesday night, Aug. 17, 2016, to solidify their vision that would bring the Great Falls Grange back to life, in line with efforts of local farmers who built the community gathering place in 1929.
Great Falls Nonprofits: Making Community Work
Great Falls Friends and Neighbors is seeking members. Women living the Langley High School district or the The Estates of Lowes Island are invited to check out the group’s website.
Origins of McLean, Virginia
A village that became known as McLean is simply a community that sporadically developed around a trolley stop. It can trace its beginning to 1902 when John R. McLean and Senator Stephen Elkins of West Virginia obtained a charter to operate an electrified railroad, that was named the Great Falls & Old Dominion Railroad.
McLean Nonprofits: Making Community Work 2016
McLean nonprofits
Great Falls, McLean, Vienna Demographics 2016
Vienna, Great Falls, and McLean demographics
Burke: Susan and Elizabeth Lydick Receive Nancy Jennings Award
Susan and Elizabeth Lydick traveled to Portland, Oregon, in June to receive the 2016 Nancy Jennings Award during the bi-annual General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA). The Nancy Jennings Award is presented to a person or congregation or PC (USA) entity that affirms, supports, and advocates for the gifts, rights, and responsibilities of persons with disabilities in the total life of the church.
Burke Demographics 2016
Burke demographics.
Burke Area Nonprofits: Making Community Work
Burke nonprofits.
John Cook: ‘Welcome Neighbors!’
Take full advantage of everything the Braddock District, and Fairfax County, has to offer.
Thank you for choosing to make Fairfax County your new home! As you will quickly find out, there is no shortage of activities here, and let me be the first to tell you what’s going on around town.
Building Confidence for the Return to School
More than 80 children from low-income families attended the FACETS Back to School Party on Monday, Aug. 15 in Fairfax.
Delegate Filler-Corn Honored by the Autism Society
On Tuesday, Aug. 16, the Autism Society of Northern Virginia (ASNV) honored Del. Eileen Filler-Corn (D-41) with the Community Builder of the Year Award during ASNV’s Annual Wine and Dine for Autism event. This award recognizes those who have had a significant positive impact on the autism community.
Fairfax: Looking Toward the Future
Multifamily homes and redevelopment.
Several development projects are either proposed or in the works in the City of Fairfax and its environs. Below are details about some of them:
Fairfax Demographics 2016
demographics
Lorton: History Revisited at Gunston Hall
George Mason’s home hosts events on life in the 18th century.
George Mason’s Gunston Hall is looking for volunteers who love history and would enjoy sharing that passion with young people.George Mason’s Gunston Hall is looking for volunteers who love history and would enjoy sharing that passion with young people.
Area Nonprofits: Making Community Work
nonprofits
Lorton: History Preserved at Pohick Church
During the Colonial period, Pohick Church was the congregation of many of the country's most prominent families, including the Washingtons, Masons and Fairfaxes.
Places to See in Springfield District
Supervisor Pat Herrity recommends some of the many places worth visiting in his district.
There are so many quality places to visit in the Springfield District, it is hard to pick the “top ones.”
Springfield Demographics 2016
Demographics in Springfield.
Welcome All to Lee District
There are a number of sites and experiences for you to encounter in the area.
I wanted to take a minute to welcome you to our great community. Once you get settled in to your new home, I would encourage you to drop by my office at 6121 Franconia Road to visit with my staff and me. We’d love to say hello and provide you with some materials highlighting our district and are more than happy to assist you with anything you might need during this time of transition.
Springfield Area Nonprofits: Making Community Work
Making community work.
Thursday, August 25
Vienna/Oakton Nonprofits: Making Community Work
Making Community Work
League of Women Voters
The League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area (LWVFA) is a volunteer organization composed of men and women who are dedicated to making democracy work.
Caring for an Ill Spouse?
The Well Spouse Association, a national nonprofit which provides peer support to those caring for a chronically ill or disabled spouse, has free support groups in various northern Virginia locations. For more information, go to www.wellspouse.org or call 800-838-0879.
Keeping Youth Safe, Healthy and Drug Free
Looking for ways to keep Fairfax County youth and young adults safe, healthy and drug free? Then check out getting involved with the nonprofit Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County (UPC).
Column: Greater Transparency in Policing
Fairfax County Police embrace change, sanctity of life for all.
The Fairfax County Police Department was established on July 1, 1940 and today we have an authorized strength of 1,406 sworn law enforcement officers.
Welcoming Business Community in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce welcomes newcomers to the area.
I am pleased to welcome you to Northern Virginia on behalf of the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce (Northern Virginia Chamber) and the regional business community. The Northern Virginia Chamber is The Voice of Business in Northern Virginia, representing nearly 700 member companies which in total employ more than 500,000 members of our regional community.
Helping to End and Prevent Homelessness
Nonprofits around Northern Virginia help with chronic homelessness, homeless families, victims of domestic violence, homeless youth and more.
Nonprofits around Northern Virginia help with chronic homelessness, homeless families, victims of domestic violence, homeless youth and more.
How to Vote in Maryland
Voters in Potomac will choose candidates for President and Vice President, for U.S. Senate, for U.S. House of Representatives, several judicial elections and Board of Education.
How to Vote in Arlington
Every year is election year in Virginia; mechanics and details of voting require attention to detail.
While the Presidential election will take top billing, in Arlington four important bond questions plus one County Board seat and two School Board seats are on the ballot. Every seat in the U.S. Congress is on the ballot, meaning the 8th district in Arlington.
How to Vote in Alexandria
The Alexandria ballot will include President and Vice President of the United States, U.S. House of Representatives (Eighth Congressional District), and two proposed amendments to the Virginia Constitution.
‘Insider’s Tip’ to New Businesses
Fairfax County Economic Development Authority helps in starting or expanding business in the county.
If you are new to Fairfax County, welcome to one of the world’s most interesting places to live and work. If you are new to the county and are interested in being part of our dynamic business community, here is an “insider’s tip” that you will want to know: The Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA), works with everyone who wants to start or expand a business in the county.
County Schools: Teaching for 21st Century
What’s new at Fairfax County Public Schools.
Welcome to the 2016-17 school year in Fairfax County Public Schools. With each new school year, we have the wonderful opportunity to build upon our previous successes and continue to improve our work with our students.
Comstock Faces Challenge from Bennett in Congressional Race
Voter turnout, presidential politics and “Trump Effect” considered key factors in once solidly red district.
In Virginia's 10th Congressional District, freshman lawmaker Barbara Comstock remains confident that she will win her first re-election bid.
Sharon Bulova: 'Welcome to Fairfax County'
Welcome to Fairfax County, one of the greatest places in the nation to live, work, play and raise a family.
About the Connection
As your local, weekly newspaper, the Connection’s mission is to deliver the local news you need, to try to make sense of what is happening in your community, to gather information about the best things in and around your community, to advocate for community good, to provide a forum for dialogue on local concerns, and to celebrate and record achievements, milestones and events in the community and people’s lives.
How to Vote in Fairfax County
Every year is election year in Virginia; mechanics and details of voting require attention to detail.
Every year is election year in Virginia; mechanics and details of voting require attention to detail.
Never Too Old To Compete
800 expected to compete in Northern Virginia Senior Olympics.
Herb Levitan adjusts his goggles, pulls on his swimming cap and lowers himself into the pool. Levitan had been up at 7 a.m. to run three miles and had biked from home to the Ocean Dunes Water Park as he trains for the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics.
Alexandria: Local Rowing Team Makes a Splash
As the world watched the U.S. Women’s coxed 8 dominate in Rio this summer, the local women of Alexandria Community Rowing (ACR) club’s competitive sweep team have steadily earned their own gold in local, regional, and national regattas.
Sailing: So Near to the City but So Far Away
Lessons on the water.
Joan Darrah walks down the wooden pier to the Flying Scot. "Hold on to the mast while you step on the boat," she says to Sarah White, a summer employee who is out for a refresher. Darrah is a senior sail instructor at the Mariner Sailing School at Belle Haven Marina.
Mount Vernon Snapshot: George Washington’s Distillery and Gristmill
The fully functioning gristmill and distillery, located down the street from George Washington’s estate, has become a popular attraction for both tourists and residents of the area.
Mount Vernon: West Potomac Dance Team Earns Nationals Bid
The West Potomac High School Varsity and JV Dance Teams engaged in a three-day, nine-hour-per-day audition with the Universal Dance Association (UDA) that culminated on Aug. 10 with the Varsity team being awarded an invitation to attend UDA’s Nationals Competition at Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. in February 2017.
Mount Vernon: Working To Reduce Erosion, Silting, and Flooding
Mount Vernon Country Club project includes using a hybrid Bermuda grass.
Members of Mount Vernon Country Club have been seeing more bulldozers than birdies during the past three months.
Mount Vernon: Estate Hosts Picnic for Friends
Promoting a sense of community.
Mount Vernon's Neighborhood Friends Picnic attracted hundreds of neighborhood friends and contributing members who live within the original five-farm estate of President George Washington.
Mount Vernon Brief: Join in Annual 9/11 Heroes Run
The Travis Manion Foundation will host the Alexandria 9/11 Heroes Run 5K race and 1 Mile Fun/Run Walk at 8:30 a.m. on Sept. 10 at Carl Sandburg Middle School, 8428 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, and the Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run 5K race and 1 Mile Fun/Run Walk at 2 p.m. on Sept. 11 at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Md.
Alexandria: What’s Shaking Old Town?
Neighbors rattled by Robinson Terminal South demolition.
Robinson Terminal South is going through demolition, and neighbors say they can feel it. While developer EYA proved that the vibrations from construction work falls within the standard set by City Council, local residents argued that a stricter standard be put in place.
Expanding Scope of Alexandria’s Public Art Projects
“We’re looking at things like traffic boxes, but do we want to do more or look at other projects?”
Traffic Control boxes are metal containers. They help make sure the traffic lights run smoothly, but they’ve never been accused of being beautiful.
Upcoming Trials in Alexandria
Commonwealth Attorney's Office braces for a flurry of murder trials.
Fall 2016 and early 2017 are scheduled to be a busy time for the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office.
Alexandria Column: Neglected Dog Left to Die
Animal Welfare League offering reward for information.
On Sunday, Aug. 14, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) was contacted by a couple who had discovered a dog abandoned in a crate under a bush on Patrick Street in Old Town Alexandria. The crate was dirty, containing feces and urine.
Alexandria: Old Dominion Boat Club Hosts Sailing Regatta
The Old Dominion Boat Club, drawing on its 135-year history, held its first ODBC Cup Invitational Regatta on Saturday, Aug. 20. The highlight of the races was the international division featuring crews from Great Britain, Australia, Canada and the United States. The USA sailboat won the four-race series on the Potomac.
Alexandria Letter: Missed Opportunity
Letter to the Editor
Your tepid response to letter writer Mark C. Williams' call (Aug. 18-24, 2016) to suppress opinion — "The Gazette Packet frequently publishes letters with which it disagrees" — missed an opportunity to address a larger issue, namely, the function of letters to the editor in a democratic society as a forum for the free expression of ideas and opinions.
Alexandria Letter: Ticket Cyclists?
Letter to the Editor
I am surprised that one person's proposed solution to the bicyclist "problem" in Old Town is to ticket cyclists for running stop signs.
Alexandria Letter: Flooding Unresolved
Letter to the Editor
Just recently, a great deal of interest has been shown in investigating the after effects of the flooding of Ellicott City, Md.
Alexandria Column: Officer Jim Bazzle – At Parade Rest
Commentary
I attended Maury Elementary School in the late 1960s. The neighborhood, the school, the people, were like a page right out of Mayberry.
Alexandria: Eyewitnesses to History
WWII veterans gather for V-J Day celebration.
At 91-years-old, Air Force Col. Kim Ching (ret.) was the youngster among World War II veterans who gathered Aug. 20 at American Legion Post 24 in Old Town to commemorate Victory Over Japan Day, otherwise known as V-J Day.
Alexandria: Gomez Memorial Service Planned
A Funeral Mass celebrating the life of Roland Branford Gomez has been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 27 at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1427 W. Braddock Road. Gomez died Aug. 11 at the age of 86.
Alexandria Snapshot: Catching Scyther
Erik Laughlin, 10, shows mom Amy his capture of the rare Scyther while playing Pokemon Go Aug. 18 near Founders Park. The capture was worth 1,000 CP (combat points) to the duo, who had cycled to Alexandria from Falls Church to seek out new Pokemon Go locations. “We’re having a blast,” said Amy Laughlin. “This is a great way to meet new people.”
Column: Rio Shows Why Investing in Clean Water Is Necessary
Commentary–Alexandria Renew Enterprises
Recently, U.S. Olympic marathon swimmer Haley Anderson discussed with NPR her 6.2-mile open-water swim off Copacabana Beach at the Rio games. One point of discussion: swimming for more than two hours in heavily polluted water during which Anderson expected to swallow several mouthfuls of water.
Alexandria/Mount Vernon: Centipedes To Compete in Patriot Run
The George Washington Patriot Run, co-sponsored by Mount Vernon and the Alexandria George Washington Birthday Committee, will be held on Sunday, Sept. 11, and will feature an opportunity for entrants to run in teams known as Centipedes.
Alexandria/Mount Vernon: MSA Names New Board Members
Metropolitan School of the Arts of Alexandria recently expanded its Alexandria/Kingstowne campus to include its Academy and studio classes, upon closing its Lorton campus.
Wednesday, August 24
Column: Women’s Equality Day Is 96 Years Young
In four years, celebrate centennial of 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which gave women the right to vote.
On Aug. 26, 2016, our nation celebrates the Women’s Equality Day for the 96th time.
Column: #MindsMatter: Lifesaving Conversations Every Day
Take one action for awareness of National Suicide Prevention week #MindsMatter.
It’s 3 p.m. School’s out. Like clockwork, alerts start ringing, letting our crisis workers know that young people are out of class, and they need to talk.
Minds Matter to Local Mental Health Service
PRS Inc. of McLean prepares for National Suicide Prevention Week.
Although National Suicide Prevention Week occurs next month, a local mental health service got a head start last week and launched its public awareness campaign on social media.
Children Science Center Lab Takes 10-year View
Amy Burke, board chairwoman of the Children's Science Center Lab in Fair Oaks Mall, and executive director Adalene “Nene” Spivey watch Emily Brunner, 15, of Falls Church take on the robotic arm challenge by programming the device to play the “Happy Birthday” song on a xylophone.
Great Falls: Virginia Indian Festival Returns to Riverbend Park
Northern Virginia's premier celebration of Native American lifestyles is coming to Riverbend Park. This fall's Virginia Indian Festival is set for Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016.
In Love with Books in Great Falls
The little girl in front of the Info desk had curling dark hair and even darker eyes and said to me shyly, “I love this library. It has stuffed animals, bean bags, chairs and books – lots of books.
Great Falls: Save Marmota Farm
Save Marmota Farm SMF, formed in July 2015, is dedicated to preserving as a public park the 22.8 acre Marmota Farm located at 9800 Georgetown Pike in Great Falls.
Preserving Historic Great Falls: Making a Good Place to Grow Good People
From the Great Falls Historical Society
As we reflect on the many journeys we have taken around the country and the world - whether by photos, film or airplane - memories of historic structures stand out, marking places as unique, special, and even remarkable. Historic structures speak to us and inform us about those who have come before us, creating a sense of place.
The ‘Wholesome’ Great Falls Farmers Market
Offers healthy choices.
In our 10th year, the Great Falls Farmers Market continues its journey of bringing wholesome food and fine artisan creations to our Great Falls community.
Great Falls: Art Group Nurtures Creativity, Gives Town ‘A Heart and Soul’
Great Falls Studios provides community with support for diverse artists, photographers and crafts people.
A former engineer on nuclear submarines is now working in Great Falls as a silversmith. A former editor of an international conservation magazine is building sculptures here. And a former CIA analyst is photographing national monuments against the night skies.
Great Falls Studio Tour Returns Oct. 14-16
Painter John McCabe of Great Falls Studios puts finishing touches on the portrait of a young subject.
Great Falls: Going Down to the River: Enjoy Its Beauty, Respect Its Power
Since I have been photographing the Great Falls area for several years I feel the most significant feature of our area is the incredible Potomac River that flows by us each and every moment of the day.
McLean: Science of Baking Sweets
Middle Eastern Food Festival offers food, food, food.
Labor Day weekend brings summer to an end, and is a major time to enjoy some relaxation and fun before fall’s chill. And for locals—especially those who love food—the major event of the weekend is the Middle Eastern Food Festival at McLean’s Holy Transfiguration Melkite Greek Catholic Church. Often rated as the Number 1 family event, this two-day festival is now celebrating its 23rd year of bringing various cultures together for fun and food.
McLean: Wheels-to-Africa and Bands for Bikes Concert
Event at Old Firehouse Teen Center in McLean sends bikes to Africa.
A Wheels-to-Africa bike collection and Bands for Bikes rock concert was held for the third year on Saturday, Aug. 20 in conjunction with the Old Firehouse Teen Center’s Annual Block Party in McLean.
Vienna Looking Forward to New Look
From community center to Marco Polo, change comes to Vienna.
Vienna doesn’t change much … and that’s the way the Vienna zip codes like it --- a small-town feel, family-focused. There’s not much in the way of crime unless an unlocked vehicle break-in counts. The annual Halloween parade, Oktoberfest, Church Street Stroll, and ViVa! Vienna! are traditions that don’t die.
Stand-off Ends through Negotiation
Sully Police District officers were called to a home in the 11900 block of Henderson Court shortly after 9 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 22 for the report of a 20-year-old man experiencing emotional distress, possibly armed with a handgun and allegedly threatening to harm himself.
Chantilly Snapshot: Displaying Their Skills
The 38th Annual Mid-Atlantic Police Motorcycle Rider's Committee, Inc. and the Mid-Atlantic Region Make-A-Wish Foundation hosted the 2016 Motor Rodeo Competition at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly last week.
Chantilly: Chef-in-Training Program for Those with Disabilities
Sangiorgio works with Community Services Board.
Alberto Sangiorgio walks through the kitchen at Wildflour Caterers bumping pinky fingers with Tasha, stopping to say hello to Cathleen and Phillipe as he walks by.
Chantilly: Frey To Lead Study Group
Dulles Suburban Area Study Advisory Group formed.
For the first time in 23 years, the Dulles Suburban Center is getting a thorough review. Work has already begun to document what’s there now and consider recommendations for potential land-use changes and future development. And now, Supervisor Kathy Smith (D-Sully) has established the Dulles Suburban Area Study Advisory Group to help with this task. She’s also named former Sully District Supervisor Michael Frey as its chairman.
Potomac: Celebrate National Park Service’s Centennial
Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center to host birthday party.
Thursday, Aug. 25, will kick off a Centennial celebration for the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park (C&O) at Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center at 11710 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac. To celebrate the Centennial, all National Park entrance fees are waived from Aug. 25-28.
Potomac Brief: Detectives Investigate Drowning
Detectives from the Montgomery County Police Major Crimes Division continue to investigate a drowning in the Potomac River that occurred on Aug. 16.
Potomac: Biking 192 Miles for Cancer Research
Potomac resident completes Pan Mass Challenge.
During the first weekend of the month, in some of the hottest weather that the East Coast has experienced in recent memory, Potomac’s Christopher Deraleau cycled 192 miles to raise money for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. While Olympic athletes racked up medals this August, Deraleau raised nearly $5,000 and cycled across the Massachusetts as part of the Pan Mass Challenge (PMC), a 26-year-old bike-a-thon.
Arlington: Snyder Named Randolph Principal
The Arlington School Board appointed Dr. Donna Snyder as principal of Randolph Elementary School. Snyder is currently the director of Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Her interim appointment begins immediately.
Arlington: Police To Host Summer Block Party
The Arlington County Police Department’s second annual Summer Block Party will take place on Saturday, Aug. 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kenmore Middle School, 200 S. Carlin Springs Road.
Alexandria: TC Gone Cyber
T.C. Williams students learn about the digital industry at summer camp.
This summer at T.C. Williams High School students ditched the endless hours of free time at home for something different. From July 11-22, TC hosted a summer Cybercamp for rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. The camp was free of charge and hosted approximately 30 students participated.
Tuesday, August 23
Arlington: Scores Grow, Gap Shrinks
Arlington Schools achievement gap still wide, but narrowing.
Arlington Public Schools have two top goals: making sure every student is challenged and engaged and eliminating achievement gaps.
Arlington Snapshot: ‘Come and You Will See’
The Catholic Diocese of Arlington held its first Korean-American Catholic Conference, “Come and You Will See,” on Aug. 20 which mirrored an annual conference in South Korea that helps teenagers determine what they want to do with with their lives.
McLean High to host ‘Celebrate McLean’
McLean High School is hosting a community festival on Thursday, Sept. 1. All families and residents of greater McLean are invited to attend.
Actually, She Can
U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock [R-10] promotes Young Women Leadership.
The energy and excitement coming from nearly 300 young women packed into the McLean Community Center is palpable – and very loud.
Places to See, Things to Do in Dranesville District
Supervisor recommends parks, historical features and community events in the Dranesville District.
Some of the Supervisor John Foust’s favorite parks, historical places and community events in Dranesville District:
McLean: ‘When Waters Rise’ Film Premiere
McLean residents, all age 16, produce film based on a Biblical parable.
About 100 people attended a film premiere for "When Waters Rise" on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the Johnson Center Cinema at George Mason University in Fairfax.
Vienna Snapshot: Country Fair Draws Hundreds to Church Street
Sweltering heat did not deter families from activities and games on grounds of Freeman House.
If smiles, wonderment, laughter, photo ops, and crowds are an indication of success, by that standard the debut Historic Vienna, Inc. Freeman House “country fair” on Aug. 20 was a booming celebration of country life.
When Vienna Was Still a Small Town
John Becci recalls growing up in town before it boomed.
John Becci’s step-mother, Milly, still lives in the house on Branch Road that the Becci children, now adults, grew up in decades ago. John Becci’s dad, Aldo, who bought that home from Yeonas builders in 1956, died in 2014. His mom died of cancer in 1978, the year John graduated from James Madison High School.
Vienna: Going Beyond the Gold
Two Girl Scout sisters try to bring hope for better health to Swaziland.
Girl Scout sisters, Taylor and Samantha Lane, both went beyond their Girl Scout Gold Awards this summer through their volunteer work in Swaziland.
Friday, August 19
Oak Hill and Herndon Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 107 homes sold between $1,330,000-$189,900 in the Oak Hill and Herndon area.
Oak Hill and Herndon Home Sales: July, 2016
Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 127 homes sold between $1,875,000-$230,000 in the Vienna and Oakton area.
Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: July, 2016
Springfield Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 229 Springfield homes sold between $935,000-$170,000.
Springfield Home Sales: July, 2016
Reston Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 138 Reston homes sold between $1,257,500-$157,000.
Reston Home Sales: July, 2016
Mount Vernon Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 126 homes sold between $1,450,000-$109,000 in the Mount Vernon area.
Mount Vernon Home Sales: July, 2016
Fairfax Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 115 Fairfax homes sold between $1,325,000-$142,800.
Fairfax Home Sales: July, 2016
Chantilly Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 32 homes sold between $915,000-$77,000 in the Chantilly area.
Chantilly Home Sales: July, 2016
Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 90 homes sold between $1,142,000-$130,000 in the Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton area.
Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton Home Sales: July, 2016
Centreville Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 130 Centreville homes sold between $899,900-$165,500.
Centreville Home Sales: July, 2016
Burke Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 79 Burke homes sold between $1,000,000-$223,425.
Burke Home Sales: July, 2016
Arlington Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 286 Arlington homes sold between $2,325,000-$128,500.
Arlington Home Sales: July, 2016
Alexandria Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 258 Alexandria homes sold between $3,765,000-$90,000.
Home Sales in July, 2016
Great Falls Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 27 Great Falls homes sold between $3,200,000-$540,000.
Great Falls Home Sales: July, 2016
McLean Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 131 homes sold between $4,000,000-$172,500 in the McLean and Falls Church area.
McLean Home Sales: July, 2016
Thursday, August 18
Virginia Ballet Company Premiers Family Fun Series
Performance is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 28.
Wednesday, Aug. 10 dancers from the non-profit Virginia Ballet Company and School were practicing in preparation for the Family Fun Series premiere on Aug. 28.
Fairfax: Stombres Takes the Reins – For Now
Appointed interim mayor until after a February 2017 special election.
Before an overflow crowd Tuesday night, the Fairfax City Council named former City Councilman Steve Stombres to serve as interim mayor.
Fairfax: Remembering Harold Skeins
Family, community remember Harold Skeins.
Some 60 people gathered Sunday night on the basketball court in Fairfax’s Ratcliffe Park for a candlelight vigil in memory of Harold Skeins.
Lorton Snapshot: Retiring After 28 Years of Service
Master Technician Dale Dommel is retiring after 28 years of service to the residents of Fairfax County. C-Shift helped Master Technician Dommel celebrate his last day at Crosspointe Fire Station 41 this past Saturday with dinner and a few parting gifts and their best wishes for a happy, healthy and safe retirement.
Mount Vernon: ‘Entertainment … Like Nothing Before’
MGM officials brief local chamber on National Harbor Hotel and Casino.
A Vegas-type luxury hotel and casino owned and operated by the MGM Resorts International — soon to open for business on the shores of the Potomac River’s National Harbor — was discussed at a Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting on Thursday, Aug. 11
Alexandria: Vount Mernon
A Musing
My father, a New Jersey guy, loved to play with words. He would swap syllables between words to create other words. For instance, each Feb. 22 he would announce (I swear this is true) that it was "George Birthington's washday."
Alexandria: Solar Panel Program Continues
Alexandria kicks off second year of its Solarize program.
three goals: to highlight the city priorities and for solar energy, so educate consumers on the price accessibility of greener energy options, and to help Alexandria citizens through the often technical and sometimes foreboding process of adding solar panels to a home.
Alexandria: City Schools’ Testing Scores on the Rise
Despite a few fumbles.
The Standards of Learning (SOL) test results are in, and for the most part, Alexandria City Public Schools has passed. The Virginia Department of Education released the data for the testing results in Alexandria over three years, showing a steady increase in both reading and science categories.
Alexandria: ‘Play Ball’ Initiative
Alexandria Summer Camp ends with baseball event.
Mac Slover, the regional program director for Alexandria’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Activities, loves baseball.
Potomac Home Sales: July, 2016
In July, 2016, 69 Potomac homes sold between $4,750,000-$445,000.
Potomac Home Sales: July, 2016
Mount Vernon: Change of Command
Holbrook relieves Mitchell as Fort Belvoir Garrison Commander.
After master of ceremonies Terry Ruggles reminded the audience at Fort Belvoir of the U.S. Army’s age — 241 years — he said that it’s existence is “perpetuated on time-honored values and traditions, not the accomplishments of individuals.”
Fairfax County: Aiming To Reduce Deer Population
Second Deer Management Program discussion
With an ecosystem struggling to support a deer population several times what’s considered to be healthy for a habitat, Fairfax County is preparing once again to initiate its deer management program.
Burke, Clifton, Fairfax Station, Lorton Springfield: Area Roundups
Rallies for Back to School and Refugees
Springfield Town Center is hosting a pep rally to celebrate students returning to school. The event is scheduled for the Grand Court area of the mall from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m on Saturday, Aug. 20.
Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton hosts first Brewfest
Shamara Wilkins of Lorton ventured out of the priceless shade just long enough to get a refreshing top up on her beer-tasting glass from Lorton-based Forge Brew works.
Robinson Graduate Wins Bull Run Civil War Round Table Scholarship
The winner of this year’s Bull Run CWRT scholarship of $1500 is Brooke Roberts, a 2016 graduate of Robinson High School and the daughter of Jennifer and Charles Roberts of Burke.
Fairfax Author Launches First Solo Book
Fairfax resident Leslie Welch’s first solo book “The Goodbyes”came out in July 2016.
Fairfax: Man Dies After Being Shot by Fairfax Sheriff’s Deputy Outside Inova Hospital
Hispanic male was discharged patient who was escorted by security to bus stop before the incident.
Early Tuesday morning, Aug. 16, a man died after having been shot by a Fairfax County Sheriff’s Deputy outside the green garage area at Inova Fairfax Hospital the previous evening.
Springfield Military Athlete Competes in World Orienteering Championships
Hannah Culberg, a First Lieutenant in the US Army and Springfield resident, is set to compete for Team USA in the Nokia Tyres World Orienteering Championships. The competition will take place in Stromstad-Tanum, Sweden, August 20-28.
Fairfax County Police Release Name of 2-Year-Old Victim in Murder-Suicide
Despite pleas from the girl’s family, Fairfax County Police have released the name of the young victim who was found dead along with the body of Roy Eugene Rumsey, 58, in an upstairs bedroom at the scene of a house fire in Fairfax on July 27.
Wednesday, August 17
Alexandria Obituary: Remembering Roland Branford Gomez
Award-winning theater veteran dies at 86.
It may have been Shakespeare who said “all the world’s a stage” but it was Roland Branford Gomez who lived it. A child actor since his first role on the New York radio program Coast to Coast at the age of 6, Gomez was a tour de force in the Washington theater scene from the minute he arrived in Northern Virginia in 1968.
Lorton: Garden Party for Historic Pohick Church
On Saturday, Aug, 13, the Historic Pohick Church on Richmond Highway in Lorton held its first Docent Guild Garden Party fundraiser for 95 people, raising about $1,000 to benefit the Historic Pohick Church Foundation, whose mission is the restoration and maintenance of the church building.
Alexandria Obituary: Tim Ahern Dies Suddenly at 68
Navy veteran was participating in charity bike ride.
Tim Ahern, chairman of the board of Agenda:Alexandria and a past president of the North Ridge Citizens Association, died suddenly Aug. 6 while participating in a charity bike ride to raise funds for multiple sclerosis. He was 68 years old.
Alexandria Obituary: Tim Ahern Dies Suddenly at 68
Navy veteran was participating in charity bike ride.
Tim Ahern, chairman of the board of Agenda:Alexandria and a past president of the North Ridge Citizens Association, died suddenly Aug. 6 while participating in a charity bike ride to raise funds for multiple sclerosis. He was 68 years old.
Springfield: Metropolitan School of the Arts Moves Academy to Kingstowne
Metropolitan School of the Arts of Alexandria recently expanded its Alexandria/Kingstowne campus to include its Academy and studio classes, upon closing its Lorton campus.
Alexandria: Virtuosos for Veterans
The Medical Musical Group and actor Michael York perform celebration of America’s veterans.
The performance had a mix of themes, from Shakespeare to Star Wars to Downton Abbey, but through it all the Medical Orchestra and hosts kept the key focus on celebrating America’s veterans. On Aug. 14, the Medical Musical Group (MMG) came together with actor Michael York and others to perform a salute to veterans and their families at the Schlesinger Concert Hall.
Alexandria People at Work: Jones Reinvents Himself at 60
Not a choice: what he was meant to do.
Guy Jones hunches over his clay board panel in Studio 337 working on a pen and ink commission of a guy's dad in Vietnam. "The father is standing there in his uniform but had adorned himself with a beautiful red flower. His son wanted to catch that spin of his father." Jones says he has several pictures of the father as examples and will create a new image. "I sketched the face this morning. By tomorrow I should have it knocked out."Guy Jones hunches over his clay board panel in Studio 337 working on a pen and ink commission of a guy's dad in Vietnam. "The father is standing there in his uniform but had adorned himself with a beautiful red flower. His son wanted to catch that spin of his father." Jones says he has several pictures of the father as examples and will create a new image. "I sketched the face this morning. By tomorrow I should have it knocked out."
Alexandria Letter: Disservice to the City
Letter to the Editor
Last week (Aug. 11 edition), you ran a letter concerning Jefferson Davis.
Alexandria Letter: Questionable Data
Letter to the Editor
A recent letter pointed to questionable data the city is using to support decisions. An example cited was the inflated number of Bikeshare members.
Alexandria Letter: On Naming City Streets
Letter to the Editor
The name of the Jefferson Davis Highway should be changed. It needs to be pointed out that slavery was not "widely viewed as a normal institution" (Gazette, Aug. 11) in America.
Alexandria Letter: Ticket Cyclists
Letter to the Editor
When I attempt to cross Union Street from my home, I do so slowly, since I cannot see approaching traffic due to buildings that block my view.
Alexandria Letter: Preserve Neighborhood
Letter to the Editor
In response to a letter submitted in the Aug. 4 Gazette, I would like to make comments regarding the proposed new hotel at the corner of Harvard and King streets.
Alexandria Column: Thanks to Summer Volunteers
Commentary–Senior Services of Alexandria
Despite the heat, Senior Services of Alexandria’s volunteers are out serving the community by delivering Meals on Wheels and Groceries to Go; seeing seniors every week for friendly visits; and delivering free pet food for animals of seniors in need through our “Animeals” program.
From Old Town Boutique District: Not Gone on Vacation Yet?
Tips on how to pack for a last minute stress free getaway.
Look at the calendar, folks. We’re halfway through August and sadly, summer is winding down.
Classified Advertising August 17, 2016
Read the latest ads here!
Potomac: The House That Dick Built
An introduction to “Brickology.”
It’s the house that Dick built. And, the garage. And, the serpentine wall.
Tuesday, August 16
Learning New Skills at Twi-Light Summer Camp
The Sully District of the Boy Scouts of America held a Twi-Light Summer Day Camp for its Cub Scouts July 25-29. Thirty Cub Scouts attended, led by adult volunteers from Sully District and Boy Scouts from Troop 1137 and Troop 577.
Chantilly: Big Day for Eric Latcheran
Chantilly resident proud to wear Knights of Columbus uniform.
Eric Latcheran, 29, of Chantilly’s Poplar Tree Estates community, is a busy person. He holds down two jobs, performs in bands, has strong friendships — including a girlfriend — and raises money for Best Buddies, which promotes friendships with and jobs for people with intellectual disabilities.
Centreville/Chantilly: ‘Inspiration’ to Animal Shelter
Local girls raise money for the facility.
Tara Sankner and Shelby Mysel are two youths with big hearts and a love for animals. And for the second year in a row, they held a fundraiser for the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.
NOVEC: How To Handle Hot Weather
The heat wave is making most air conditioners run longer and harder.
Chantilly Snapshot: CSU Shows Customer Appreciation
Computer Services Unlimited (CSU) held a “Customer-Appreciation / Get-To-Know-CSU” private screening of “The Secret Life of Pets” at the newly renovated Centreville Multiplex Theater earlier this month.
‘Getting Arrested … a Blessing’
Former gang member reveals what that life is really like.
According to police Capt. Bob Blakley, “Eighty percent of the property crimes in the Sully District are gang-related or done by their affiliates. And even a higher percentage of the violent crimes here are done at the hands of gang members – and that’s a huge problem. This year, we’ve had three, drive-by shootings into occupied dwellings, one in Chantilly and two in Centreville.”
Potomac Brief: Hot Weather Tips For Pet Owners
The staff of the Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center reminds pet-owners to ensure the safety of dogs and cats during periods of extreme heat.
Potomac Brief: New Immunization Requirements for Entering Seventh Graders
Parents of students entering seventh grade are reminded that there are immunization requirements announced in 2014 that require students to have one Tdap (Tetanus-diphtheria-attenuated pertussis) and one meningococcal (MCV4) vaccination.
Potomac Brief: How to Help Victims of Apartment Fire
The county has compiled a list of ways for the public to help the victims of the Aug. 10 fire/explosion at the Flower Branch Apartments in Silver Spring.
Potomac: Family Raises Service Dog
Pandy trains for service with with Canine Companions for Independence.
As the Geier family of five moves from Potomac to Greensboro, N.C. this month, they are bringing one element of home with them: Pandy, the dog they are raising with Canine Companions for Independence (CCI), a nonprofit organization that provides service dogs for free to people with a broad spectrum of disabilities.
Arlington County Fair Returns for 40th Anniversary
Fair to have 1970s theme.
Arlington may be part of the D.C. urban environment, but on Aug. 17 it gets back in touch with its rural roots with the Arlington County Fair.
Arlington Snapshot: Springtime Garden Party
Culpepper Garden celebrated its 41st anniversary on June 4 with its Annual Springtime Garden Party on the grounds of Culpepper Garden at 4435 N. Pershing Drive.
Arlington Snapshot: Youth Leadership
The Leadership Arlington Youth Program Class of 2016, comprised of 30 youth leaders who are rising high school juniors and seniors, graduated on Thursday, Aug. 11, at a ceremony held in Marymount University's Reinsch Library Auditorium.
Editorial – Election 2016: Much at Stake Nationally, Locally
Possible record turnout should motivate more early voting.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8, and in some ways that seems like it can’t possibly come soon enough.
Arlington: Spotting a Mississippi Kite
Rare nest found in Arlington.
Floating from the east along 17th St. in north Arlington, the graceful Mississippi kite flew into one of the large oak trees on the northeast corner of 17th and Utah. with food for its now quite large chick.
Arlington Snapshot: Exploring Vernal Ponds
The Campbell family participates in a class in vernal ponds at Potomac Overlook Regional Park on Sunday afternoon. Park Naturalist Emily Rarity has handed out small nets to Chris, Colin and Leo for scooping tadpoles out of the murky water.
Arlington: Inside the Artisphere's Office Space
New development at the Artisphere.
The Artisphere is gone. In its place near the Rosslyn Metro, workplace developer Regus will lease the space from owner Monday Properties to develop 45,000 square feet of new office space.
Alexandria: Carlyle House – A Tale of America in the Making
The Carlyle House, located at 121 North Fairfax Street, opened as a museum in 1976, and was the first historic house to open during the Bicentennial year. Recently, it celebrated its 40th anniversary of that event this July with an open house at no cost to the public. With that, Alexandria also celebrated its founding in 1749.
Alexandria Appetite: 3 Spots to Pencil in for Restaurant Week
The city’s offerings are their most diverse ever.
Alexandria’s summertime Restaurant Week is back in action for another season, and diners will find plenty of options that are sure to appeal to every appetite. Here are three to be sure to try.
Create a Back-to-School Game Plan
Educators tell how to make the transition less jarring.
As a single mother of a fifth grade student, Christine Schull is already making back-to-school preparations.
Potomac: Support Annual Back-to-School Backpack Drive
Local organization collects school supplies and backpacks to support low-income families.
A local organization is working to make sure some of the area’s neediest students have the supplies they need when school begins this fall.
Considering a Private School?
Educational consultants can help families navigate application process.
For families considering an independent school for the 2017-2018 school year, the admissions process begins this fall. From essays and interviews to school visits and standardized tests, the process for getting into kindergarten may feel nearly as daunting as applying to college.
Great Falls Teens Build House in Lynchburg
Great Falls Rotary Interact Club lent a helping hand to Habitat for Humanity in Lynchburg, Va. A group of Great Falls Rotary Interact members donned hard hats, tool belts and put in some major sweat equity as they spent three days in Lynchburg, constructing a house from the ground up, as part of a summer service project supporting Habitat for Humanity.
Great Falls Letter: Zika Virus, No Problem!
Letter to the Editor
Representative Connolly’s commentary about the Zika threat [The Connection, August 10-16, 2016] is a perfect example of why we are fed up with career politicians.
Great Falls Park Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Dancing Under the Pavilion, Movie Under the Stars.
National Park Service Centennial Event celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Great Falls Park will be held on Saturday, Aug. 27, 2016, 7 - 10 p.m. Free.
Great Falls: ‘Snow White’ at Riverbend Park
Travelling Players perform ‘Snow White’ with a comedic twist.
Traveling Players Ensemble performs “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” an original adaptation of the classic fairytale, at Riverbend Park on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 7:30 p.m.. Check out Traveling Players’ Commedia Troupe as they take this classic tale of miners, stepmothers, mirrors and apples and infuse it with the hilarious improvisational tradition of Commedia dell’Arte.
The Claude Moore Colonial Farm to Host Colonial Tobacco Harvest
The Claude Moore Colonial Farm, 6310 Georgetown Pike, McLean, will host Colonial Tobacco Harvest – Participatory Event, on Saturday, Aug. 20, 1-4 p.m.
LEGO Representatives from Denmark to Visit McLean Camp
“I am learning a lot here. It’s like playing, but I know I am learning things too,” said Claire, 10, and Jake Varley, 11, of Annandale. This summer, Fun Bot Lab opened its second camp location in Annandale at Holy Spirit School and is now celebrating a week long visit from representatives of the LEGO Education group located in Billund, Denmark.
McLean: Police, Park Authority Seek Public’s Help in Protecting Parks
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is located at 7400 Georgetown Pike in McLean.
McLean, Vienna: Community Foundation Launches Innovation Breakfast Series
Access National Bank has offered exclusive support to sponsor the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia’s new Innovation Breakfast Series.
Old-time Country Fair Comes to Vienna
Historic Vienna, Inc. hosts free activities reminiscent of an earlier time.
Step into a Norman Rockwell painting on Aug. 20 as Historic Vienna, Inc. hosts a country fair with a myriad of activities, at no charge, for families. The debut “Vienna’s Country Fair” takes over the Freeman House end of the Vienna Town Green from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20. HVI refers to the fair as a “return to a simpler time.”
Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna Chosen for Greater Washington Catalogue for Philanthropy
The Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna [SCOV] has announced its continued recognition as one of Greater Washington’s best community-based charities by the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington. Being re-featured online by the Catalogue reflects the Shepherd’s Center’s status as an effective local charity dedicated to promoting and supporting purposeful independent living for mature adults.
Vienna: Family Fun Jam at Jammin Java
On Saturday, Jammin Java of Vienna hosted the Family Fun Jam, a fundraiser for the Growing Hope Foundation, which raises money for children with cancer and their families.
Vienna: Local Charity Wins Big at Wiffle Ball World Series
Waters Field was the center of attention on Saturday, August 6th, for the 21st Annual Northern Virginia Wiffle Ball World Series [NVWWS]. The event, sponsored by Vienna Youth Inc., the Greater Vienna Babe Ruth League, and the Joe Cassella Foundation, looked to continue the legacy of Brian Bedell, the Vienna native to whom this tournament is dedicated.
Vienna, McLean, Great Falls: Middle Eastern Food, Culture on Display
Middle Eastern Food Festival returns on Labor Day weekend.
Holy Transfiguration Melkite Greek-Catholic Church will host its 23rd annual Middle Eastern Food Festival, Sept. 3 and 4, on the church grounds -- 8501 Lewinsville Road, McLean. The Festival will feature authentic Middle Eastern food, pastries, music and dancing, as well as vendors, church tours, and activities for both children and adults.
Thursday, August 11
Fairfax: City Residents Have Their Say
Surprise, sadness in aftermath of Silverthorne’s arrest.
Scott Silverthorne was front and center at every City of Fairfax ribbon-cutting, new business opening, fundraiser and just plain fun event like Rock the Block or Fido Fest.
Locals Catch ‘Pokemon Go’ Fever in County Parks
Safety tips dispensed by crime prevention experts and elected officials at Burke Lake.
Trump and Clinton aren’t the only characters to watch during an election year full of surprises.
Helping Local Businesses Add Nearly 600 Jobs
During the second quarter of 2016, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority [FCEDA] provided services and resources to 38 businesses that are adding 585 jobs in Fairfax County. Many of these businesses are in technology sectors and professional services, and five are foreign-based firms using a Fairfax County location to expand in North America.
Burke Lake Golf Course Upgrades to Begin Oct. 3
A new clubhouse and expanded driving range and parking lot highlight upgrades to the Burke Lake Golf Course in Fairfax Station that’s more than 40 years old.
Fairfax: Small City, Big Scandal
Mayor arrested in sex-for-meth police sting.
If someone tossed a live, hand grenade in the middle of Fairfax, it potentially wouldn’t have caused as much damage or such utter shock and amazement as the news that Mayor Scott Silverthorne was arrested. And not for a traffic infringement, but for a felony involving group sex with men in exchange for drugs.
Fairfax Snapshot: Bubbles, Bubbles Everywhere
On Saturday, Aug. 6, some 800 children cooled off at the Double Bubble Run in Van Dyck Park. They frolicked in bubbles, ran through obstacles and zipped down a 50-foot-high, inflatable, shark waterslide.
Fairfax: Roof Fire Breaks Out at University Mall
Firefighters respond to Bangkok Golden Thai Restaurant.
Often, when there’s a fire at a restaurant, it starts in the kitchen. But a fire last week at a Thai restaurant in University Mall started on the roof, through no fault of the restaurant, at all.
Two Reports of Fox Bites in Springfield Area
A fox or foxes are still at large after two reports of bites in the Springfield area on Monday, Aug. 8, Fairfax County Police said.
Update Anticipated in Fairfax Murder-Suicide
The Office of the Medical Examiner has yet to identify the toddler whose dead body was found along with that of Roy Eugene Rumsey, 58, in a house fire on July 27 in the 12100 block of Fairfax Hunt Road in Fairfax.
Great Falls Snapshot: Taking Art Walk
Friday evening, Aug. 5, Arts Studios & Galleries, with 27 artists, hosted First Friday Art Walk in the Village, offering Great Falls art admirers an opportunity to enjoy the arts, meet artists at work and enjoy music while strolling through the Village Green.
Stars of Summer
Northern Virginia Swimming League holds individual championships
Olympic swimming started with an expected bang in its opening weekend in Río, with Katie Ledecky and the men’s four by 100 freestyle relay, that included Michael Phelps in the second leg, captured gold medals for Team USA.
Ginny Thrasher's Golden Gun
Springfield’s Ginny Thrasher wins Olympic gold in air rifle.
Before she left for the Río Olympics, 19-year-old sharpshooter Ginny Thrasher of Springfield was just looking to get experience in her first games. “I was looking more towards 2020 as a realistic option,” she had said.
Wednesday, August 10
Mount Vernon: Swimming with Engie, for Cancer Research
Fundraiser benefits Inova Schar Cancer Institute.
When Engie Mokhtar of Kingstowne woke up from a blackout on the floor of her kitchen, she didn’t think much of it. She cleaned up, went to bed, and went to swimming practice with the Alexandria Masters team the next morning.
From Iran to Mount Vernon
Retired plastic surgeon writes autobiography.
Mount Vernon resident Dr. Khosrow Matini’s autobiography, “Fortunate Plastic Surgeon: An Autobiography and My View About the United States,” weaves his journey from a youth in the often volatile country of Iran to a plastic surgeon in the United States.
Mount Vernon Snapshot: Making a Difference
United Community Ministries (UCM) hosted a group of 20 graduating seniors from West Potomac High School during the final two weeks of their high school careers.
Mount Vernon: Anderson Named SLES Scholarship Winner
The Stratford Landing Elementary School PTA has announced its 2016 scholarship winner: Kelsey Anderson, a Stratford alumnus who recently graduated from Episcopal High School. Anderson held a 4.35 GPA and her work gained accolades from many faculty members.
Mount Vernon: Area Students Attend Boys State
At American Legion Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen.
Mount Vernon Letter: Focus on Education
Letter to the Editor
I am writing to compliment the Mount Vernon Gazette for publishing Tim Peterson’s very informative article on the situation concerning J.E.B. Stuart High School in Falls Church (“First Step on Re-Naming School,” Aug. 4).
Mount Vernon: SFDC Seminars Help Educate Businesses
Seminar addresses online ratings.
Local business people learned the benefits of using social media as an online marketing tool during last week’s Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation (SFDC)-hosted education seminar.
Mount Vernon Column: Legislature Needs to Examine UVA’s Cash Reserve
Commentary
In July, it was revealed that the University of Virginia had managed to retain over $2 billion of excess revenues — exclusive of their $5 billion endowment maintained by their foundation. An outgoing member of the Board of Visitors called it a “slush fund.”
Mount Vernon: A Musing
My father, a gifted church organist/choirmaster, loved making pun-based jokes. He specialized in first-syllable reversals, swapping first letters to create a joke. For instance, he might suggest that we go to a restaurant over looking the Ratomac Piver (sigh).
Alexandria Brief: Hearing Set for Arrested WMATA Officer
Nicholas Young, a Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority officer, was arrested Aug. 3 for allegedly providing material support to ISIS. Young, a Fairfax resident, appeared briefly in Alexandria’s Eastern District Courthouse where his defense waived his preliminary hearing. Young’s next court date is scheduled for Aug. 11 at 2 p.m.
Alexandria: Paws to Read
Encouraging confidence in reading through puppies.
Maggie doesn’t talk back. Caroline Schofield, a second grader, can read to Maggie without judgment or being corrected. Maggie lays next to Caroline, occasionally wagging her tail and resting her head against the girl’s left while Caroline reads from a book.
Alexandria: Seniors at the Wheel
Accident highlights need for alternative travel options for elderly.
According to police, at 10 a.m. on Aug. 2, Leonard Wainstein, a 92-year-old Fairfax resident, was looking for a parking spot at a bank in Old Town Alexandria.
Alexandria Snapshot: Friendship Firehouse Festival
The crowd arrives early for the Friendship Firehouse celebration Aug. 6.
Alexandria People at Work: The Many Faces of Firefighting
On a normal day Durant Cephers would be working at Firehouse 206 on Seminary Road. But it is Aug. 6 and he is on S. Albert Street at the Friendship Firehouse 150th anniversary event.
Kelvin Terrell writes “Karma: The War of Love.”
His first romance novel.
Alexandria actor/producer Kelvin Terrell hopes to use profits from his first novel “Karma: The War of Love” to start a scholarship foundation for the city’s youth.
Alexandria Letter: Keep Jefferson Davis Highway
Letter to the Editor
As an Alexandria citizen (who hails originally from Chicago and believes in Lincoln’s malice toward none sentiments about the war), and a long-serving soldier and a Civil War historian, I want to add some historical perspective toward the importance of the eternal memorial of our Civil War history around Alexandria.
Alexandria Letter: A More Business Friendly City
Letter to the Editor
At almost every ribbon cutting we attend, we hear from business owners about the challenges they faced in getting their doors open.
Alexandria Letter: Not Very Surprising
Letter to the Editor
So, the Robinson's Terminal developer cannot see making money building his hotel despite all the concessions he got from the city.
Janet Barnett: ‘Get Involved in Community Service’
Offering advice for those seeking to be active in the city.
Janet Barnett likes being involved in her community. She caught the bug when her children, Susan and Louis, were in the Alexandria school system and she became a volunteer for the PTA. “I didn’t have as many opportunities then as I do now,” she said.
Alexandria: Barbara Ross Dies
Former deputy director of Planning and Zoning helped shape city.
Barbara Ross, former deputy director of the Department of Planning and Zoning, died Aug. 9 at her home in Alexandria. She was 70 years old.
Alexandria Column: Spreading Love and Lifts
Commentary–Rebuilding Together Alexandria
Carole’s father suffered from a neuromuscular disease and was living alone in his three-story Alexandria home.
Alexandria Column: How To Shop a Sidewalk Sale
From the Old Town Boutique District
Get ready to bargain shop, Alexandria! It is that time of year again, time for the Seventh Annual Alexandria Sidewalk Sale Aug. 13 and 14.
Alexandria Mentor of the Month
Through Children’s Eyes
In early 2015, we were matched with Angie and Jeremy through Wright to Read. We had no idea what an adventure we had signed up for.
Alexandria Column: Squad of Volunteers Arrives with a Vroom
Commentary–AWLA
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) welcomes all kinds of volunteer help, but some assistance arrives with extra fanfare.
Notes From The Producer: MetroStage Prepares New Season
It is always exciting to announce a new season of plays and musicals, and this season will include a world premiere musical, a brand new show for the holidays, and two classic American plays, all featuring the great actors you expect to see on our stage. We open with “Blackberry Daze,” a world premiere musical adapted from a bestselling novel by Ruth P. Watson.
Alexandria Appetite: A Home Away from Home in Heart of Del Ray
At Front Porch: Kick back, relax, and have a snack and a beer.
Walk down Mount Vernon Avenue on any summertime weekend, and if the weather’s even remotely nice, you’re sure to see a crowd congregating on a patio two doors down from the Evening Star Café.
Column: Solar Coming to Reston—At Last?
Independent Progressive
Do you ever wonder why there seem to be almost no solar panels in Reston? You’d think that this generally progressive planned community inspired by visionary Robert Simon would in fact be a leader in using solar technology.
Column: Slow but Steady Course of Human Rights
Commentary
Ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment [ERA] was already being hotly debated in the Virginia General Assembly when I became a member of the House of Delegates in 1978.
Herndon Resident Receives Companion for Independence
Canine Companions for Independence – a national non-profit organization providing trained assistance dogs for children and adults with disabilities – has announced that Herndon resident Tucker Winfrey has recently received an assistance dog from Canine Companions for Independence.
Time to Plane Around
Be ready for just 'plane' fun at 24th Annual Plane Pull® benefiting Special Olympics Virginia.
The 24th annual Dulles Day Family Festival and Plane Pull will be held Sept. 17, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dulles International Airport. All proceeds benefit Special Olympics Virginia.
‘Reston Pioneer’ Robert Fulton Hanlon, 81, Dies
On July 25, 2016, Bob Hanlon, 81, died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Reston.
MOD Pizza opens at Reston Plaza America
MOD stands for Made On Demand.
MOD Pizza, MOD stands for Made On Demand, held a grand opening at Reston’s Plaza America on July 1.
One Step To ‘One Fairfax’
Agreeing on a policy to create opportunity for all.
Jeff McKay didn’t mince words when discussing racial, social and economic inequity in Fairfax County.
Tuesday, August 9
Alexandria: A Home with a View
Alexandria abode has remained in the same family since 1923.
Among the stately homes in Alexandria's Rosemont neighborhood, nestled between Del Ray and Old Town, is a testament to one family’s predilection for entertaining.
Stylish Solutions for Organized Homes
Practical and chic ideas for making a home back-to-school ready.
Before school begins later this month, taking the time to organize home and school supplies can take the stress out of the transition from a laid-back summer to a structured, schedule-driven school year. Local home design and organizational experts share ideas to help parents add practical organizational tools to their home without sacrificing their sense of style.
Potomac: Rebuilding after the Storm
A screened porch once again provides a peaceful oasis for a Potomac homeowner.
During a violent thunderstorm late last year, a Potomac homeowner heard howling winds, relentless rain and then a loud crash.
Commentary: Responding to the Zika Threat
There have been 50 reported cases of Zika in Virginia, all linked to foreign travel, as of early August.
Last week, for the first time ever, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was forced to issue a domestic travel warning to pregnant women planning to visit Miami, a popular getaway destination.
Editorial: Laser Focus on Safety
While Metro lapses can’t be excused, it’s much safer than driving; maintenance-related safety issues also plague area bridges and roads.
Intense scrutiny on the safety and maintenance record of the Washington region’s Metro system is resulting in continuing revelation of lapses, and ongoing inconvenience with repair schedules shutting down entire lines and the end of late night service.
Great Falls: Fatal Crash on Walker Road
Officers responded to the 1100 block of Walker Road in the Great Falls area on Saturday, Aug. 6, around 7:32 a.m. for the report of a single-vehicle crash.
Great Falls: Neighbor Stops Safeway Robber
On Thursday evening, 6:30 p.m., Franklin, a Great Falls Safeway employee, came out of Safeway as a man came out the far door running with a container. Franklin said the man stole something. Peter Sanson drove around the building, behind the shopping center and yelled for the man to drop the goods. He did and he ran into the bushes leaving behind four bottles of Dom Perignon he tried to steel.
‘Hello August’ Opens at Great Falls Studios Virtual Gallery
"Hello August" has opened at Great Falls Studios Virtual Gallery: Visit with a click and enjoy 40 works from 14 GFS member artists.
Great Falls Dancer Offered Merit Scholarship
Emilie Gregory, a dancer with Classical Ballet Theatre in Herndon, selected to train with Miami City Ballet School.
Emilie Gregory, 14, of Great Falls -- a dancer with Classical Ballet Theatre of Northern Virginia -- received one of the highest honors an artist her age can receive: the offer of a full merit scholarship to train at the Miami City Ballet School.
McLean Community Center to Hold Two Public Meetings on FY 2018 Budget
The McLean Community Center Governing Board encourages residents of Small District 1A-Dranesville who have suggestions, comments or concerns regarding the Center’s FY 2018 budget to attend two upcoming meetings.
McLean: ‘Bands for Bikes’ Provide Wheels to Africa
Benefit concert to be held at the McLean Old Firehouse Teen Center on Saturday, Aug. 20.
Wheels to Africa is a youth-led all volunteer 501c(3) that collects used bikes for needy children.
National Night Out in McLean
Police, Fire and Sheriff’s departments visit Vinson Hall Retirement Community.
The Vinson Hall Retirement Community on Kirby Road in McLean joined in the celebration of National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 2.
Vienna History Revisited at Freeman Store
Connie Stuntz chatted about ‘This Was Vienna, Virginia’ to friends and fans.
Connie Stuntz was born in Falls Church in 1923 and moved to Vienna after she and Mayo Stuntz were married in 1947.
Centreville Snapshot: 20 Years
Virginia Bagel, at 5621 Stone Road, Centreville, is celebrating 20 years of business. Customers commemorated the store’s anniversary by presenting owners Aziz and Karim Afzal (at right) with a photograph of the restaurant that was signed by many of the patrons. Virginia Bagel has participated in the Centreville community not just as a restaurant, but also by supporting Westfield High School.
Centreville Obituary: SGM (Ret) Daniel T. Benson-McCarthy
SGM (Ret) Daniel T. Benson-McCarthy, age 56, of Centreville, died on July 21, 2016, after a 14-month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Column: New I-66 Exit Lane for Route 28
Commentary
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will use the overhead, electronic signs on I-66 to implement a dedicated exit lane from westbound I-66 to northbound Route 28 during morning rush hours.
Chantilly Snapshot: Soaring at Dance Nationals
Chantilly-based PowerWorx Dance (PWD) premiered its inaugural, nationally competitive Competition Team at Nexstar National Talent Dance Competition in Orlando, Fla., July 18-23.
Centreville/Chantilly: Building Trust in the Community
Residents, police and firefighters join together during National Night Out.
Hot dogs, ice cream, water games, laughter and fun were all part of last week’s annual National Night Out celebration in the local area. It was held Tuesday evening, Aug. 2, and enabled community residents and public-safety personnel to meet each other, mingle and share some time together in a happy and relaxed atmosphere.
Police Charge Clifton Man with Murder
Caterer dies from stabbing after E.C. Lawrence Park wedding.
Weddings are normally happy affairs that don’t end in tragedy. But an argument over folding chairs after a Saturday wedding in Chantilly’s Ellanor C. Lawrence Park resulted in a woman’s death and a man being charged with murder.
Potomac Business: Barbosa Honored
Sales associate Ana Barbosa from the Potomac office of Weichert, Realtors was individually recognized for her industry success in July.
Potomac Obituary: Virginia Bush Potter
Virginia Bush Potter, 92, originally of Bethesda, since the 1920s, died on Aug. 4, 2016 in her Potomac home of 51 years, with her husband, Lloyd A. Potter, by her side.
Potomac Brief: Commission To Discuss Term Limit Proposal
The Montgomery County Charter Review Commission (CRC) at its next meeting at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 24, will discuss the proposed Charter amendment to limit County Councilmembers and the County Executive to three consecutive terms.
Potomac: Libraries’ Celebrate Local Olympic Athletes
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will provide an opportunity for residents to show their support for the four county athletes who are going for the gold at the upcoming Summer Olympics. Every library branch has established a station for residents to deliver fan mail or messages to the athletes.
Potomac Brief: Celebrate a Centennial of Campfires at Great Falls Tavern
To celebrate the National Park Service Centennial year, join the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal (C&O Canal) National Historical Park to commemorate a century of campfire programs with the National Park Service. Sing songs and listen to stories from across America’s National Parks as well as night-time themed canal stories.
Potomac: Urban Agricultural Tax Credit Bill Introduced
Montgomery County Councilmember Tom Hucker on Aug. 2 introduced Bill 31-16 that would allow owners of certain properties in the county ranging in size from one-half acre to less than five acres to be granted an “Urban Agricultural Tax Credit” if they had two or more urban agricultural uses on the property.
Arlington: National Debate Hits NoVa Infrastructure
Local politicians take sides in Presidential feud.
If Hillary Clinton is elected, the economy will grow by 10.4 million jobs nationwide while under a Trump administration, the economy would lose 3.4 million jobs. This was the finding of a recent report by Moody’s Investors Service economist Mark Zandi.
Arlington: Technology, Tradition and Transition at Kenmore
New interim principal discusses his predecessor's legacy and future of the school.
Becoming the new principal of Kenmore Middle School would be difficult enough, but David McBride is stepping into a role Dr. John Word had occupied for 18 years.
Arlington Snapshot: Congressional Competition
Caroline Nelson of Washington & Lee High School won this year's Congressional Art Competition for U.S. Rep. Don Beyer’s District 8. For the next year her artwork will hang in the U.S. Capitol .
Arlington Snapshot: Mark Palmer Joins FVCbank
Mark. T. Palmer joined FVCbank as vice president, commercial lender, supporting the bank’s commercial team in the Arlington area. Palmer brings 30 years of experience in banking, including most recently at Monument Bank in Bethesda, where he worked as vice president, real estate lender. He also has served as vice president and head of the real estate group at The Adams National Bank in Washington, D.C. FVCbank commenced operations in November 2007, and is the wholly-owned subsidiary of FVCBankcorp, Inc. See www.fvcbank.com.
Arlington Snapshot: Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year
Stephanie Glancey Mount of Eagle Hill Consulting was named Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year for small companies at the 15th Annual HR Leadership Awards Gala of Greater Washington on June 7 at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park.
Arlington Snapshot: Scholarships
From left: Jesse Hernandez-Naranjo of Wakefield, Angel Lopez-Sato of H-B Woodlawn, Esau Alberto Lazo Martinez of H-B Woodlawn and Kayla Cleggett of Washington-Lee were four of the six students each awarded a $3,000 scholarship from the Commonwealth Circle, Inc. Proceeds from the Commonwealth Circle's fundraiser were given to need-based seniors in Arlington County High Schools pursuing studies in community service. Not pictured are Jasmine Ben Hamed of Washington-Lee and Norma Lucia Chambi of Wakefield.
Arlington: Digging into History
On Aug. 6, the Arlington Historical Society launched the first archaeological dig at the Ball-Sellers House — the oldest structure in Arlington County — in 30 years.
Arlington Brief: County Hires Zoning Administrator
Arlington County has named its acting zoning administrator, Arlova Vonhm, permanent zoning administrator.
Arlington: Wahlburgers To Open At Ballston Point
Wahlburgers, founded by Executive Chef Paul Wahlberg and brothers Mark and Donnie, will open a restaurant at Ballston Point in Arlington.
Arlington Brief: Sierra Club Cites Pollution in 22203
The Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club released a report last month entitled “The Top 25 Virginia Localities with the Highest Toxic Air Emissions.”
Arlington Brief: Help Firefighters Help Animals
The Arlington County Fire Department’s first-ever annual donation drive, Operation FirePaws, on behalf of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) is taking place in August. Firefighters seek donations of nonperishable items on the League’s wish list for its animal shelter in Shirlington.
Arlington Brief: Route 110 Night-time Lane Closures
Night-time lane closures, including intermittent total stoppages, are occurring on Route 110 at the Route 27 interchange through Saturday, Aug. 20 for work on a new overpass, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).
Arlington Brief: House Cards Digitalized
When the county’s first building code was adopted in 1935, a system was created of using customized index cards to record a structure’s builder, subdivision and alterations large and small.
Arlington: Police Arrest 6 Suspects For Armed Robbery
The Arlington County Police Department has arrested and charged six suspects, five adults and one juvenile, for their role in an armed home invasion robbery in the 3000 block of Military Road.
Arlington: Police Arrest 6 Suspects For Armed Robbery
The Arlington County Police Department has arrested and charged six suspects, five adults and one juvenile, for their role in an armed home invasion robbery in the 3000 block of Military Road.
Monday, August 8
Mount Vernon Snapshot: At Leadership Conference
More than 8,000 Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members, advisers, alumni, and guests from across the country gathered in San Diego, Calif. in July for the 2016 National Leadership Conference.
Alexandria: Youths Uncover Historic Artifacts
Camp at Fort Word Park uncovers history.
Fourteen youths, aged 12 to 15, recently participated in the Alexandria Archaeology Summer Camp, where they excavated a Post-Civil War African American community at Fort Ward Park.
Alexandria: Youths Uncover Historic Artifacts
Camp at Fort Word Park uncovers history.
Fourteen youths, aged 12 to 15, recently participated in the Alexandria Archaeology Summer Camp, where they excavated a Post-Civil War African American community at Fort Ward Park.
Thursday, August 4
Challenged Brain, Healthy Brain?
Social engagement and mentally challenging jobs might keep Alzheimer’s disease at bay.
Most days of the week, Ana Nelson can be found educating others about Alzheimer’s disease in her role as vice president of Programs and Services for the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter. Her free time is spent touring historical sites in Northern Virginia and staying fit through competitive running and other activities. She’s currently training for the Marine Corps Marathon.
New Policy Outlines Public’s Rights to Record Police Activity
With the development and prevalence of increasingly portable technologies, people of all ages are capturing more and more moments on video, including law enforcement activity. On June 1, the police department issued a new departmental policy pertaining to anyone who might record police activity, whether it be something they see as a passerby or a direct interaction with an officer - according to FCPD Public Affairs Bureau.
Fairfax County Police Receive National Accreditation
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies recognized compliance with 484 standards.
In a hearing in Baltimore’s inner harbor on Saturday, July 30, the Fairfax County Police Department received a formal recognition of its national accreditation from the Gainesville, Va.-based Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, CALEA.
Working Group to Consider Re-Naming JEB Stuart High School
Fairfax County School Board seeks additional community engagement on divisive issue.
Coming off its recent decision to postpone the implementation of new regulations for transgender students, the Fairfax County School Board has moved action on the possible renaming of J.E.B. Stuart High School in Falls Church to a later date as well.
Staying Fit and Healthy on Vacation
Advance planning is key to maintaining a healthy diet and fitness on the road.
Listening to Christian Elliot describe part of a recent vacation that he took with his wife, Nina, you might think he was attending a fitness bootcamp.
Burke, Mount Vernon: Copperthite Race Track Receives Historical Marker
2,000-person grandstand once stood in Burke.
More than 100 years since Copperthite Race Track opened in Burke, harnessed race horses once again trotted back and forth on the same grounds, now inhabited by the Burke Nursery and Garden Center.
Alexandria Column: Inspiring Greatness
Event highlights importance of community, respect and love.
On a warm Friday night in June of this year, The Untouchables male youth organization of Alexandria hosted, what could possibly be, its first annual Lock-In. The young Untouchables and several mentors spent the night at the Charles Houston Recreation Center. The chosen theme for this event was "Inspiring Greatness."
Mount Vernon Letter: On Right Side Of Environment
Letter to the Editor
As the headlines on the devastating impacts of climate change in our country and worldwide hitting the media, we wonder whether our legislators are doing enough to address this issue.
Mount Vernon Column: Beat the Heat, Visit a Museum
Commentary
Normally, summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but with record-setting heat broiling the region, many of us may be looking for indoor activities. Thankfully, Mount Vernon and Lee residents have access to several local museums that can help us escape the heat and learn more about our interesting history.
Mount Vernon: A Musing
My wife and I are members of a local yacht club, which sits on land that was once a part of George Washington's Mount Vernon estate.
Wednesday, August 3
Mount Vernon: Brain Injury Services’ Programs Promote Independent Living
Day services for stroke victims available to residents in the Route 1 corridor.
After suffering from a stroke, concussion, or other brain injury, victims and their family and friends commonly look for professional care to develop independent living skills and to provide supportive and understanding care on the way to recovery.
Column: Helping Make Democracy Work
My internship in Supervisor Cook’s office.
In recent months, a good deal of attention has been directed towards the ongoing race for the White House.
Burke, Springfield: Fighting Cancer, One Stroke at a Time
Swim-a-Thon event raises money for INOVA’s ‘Life With Cancer.’
On Sunday, July 10, the South Run Community Pool held their annual Swim-a-Thon charity event to raise funds and awareness for cancer, a cause that runs deep through this close-knit neighborhood community: Swimmers swam, kicked and floated across the pool in order to raise funds and awareness for INOVA'S "Life With Cancer" organization.
Communities Observe National Night Out
Law enforcement and neighborhoods come together in Fairfax Station, Springfield and countywide.
Every night, that’s seven nights a week, Amanda Fox and her mother make rounds of the 169 houses in their community of Cardinal Estates in Springfield.
Fairfax Mulls New Name, Logo and Slogan
To fine-tine and promote City's identity.
Should the City of Fairfax change its name to Fairfax City? What should its new logo look like? What shape should it be, and what colors? These and other questions have been under consideration by the City Council as it determines the City’s brand and identity.
Fairfax: Firearms Training Center Is Moving Forward
Will give local police a more modern firing range.
The current firearms training center for the City’s Police Department was built in 1985 of cinderblock and wood. It has six firing lanes, a small classroom, a weapons-cleaning area and a office that doubles as an armory.
Cats and Politics Unite in New Documentary
With election day quickly approaching this November 2016, many voters are in need of some comedic relief during this competitive political season.
Fairfax: Building Safer Communities
Crime is not welcome at 12 National Night Out block parties in the Fair Oaks District.
At first, National Night Out was a simple gesture citizens made to show their support for local law enforcement: Turn on the front porch light the first Tuesday night in August.
Lorton: Baggage Cart in ‘Top Ten Artifacts’ Competition
The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum has entered a restored Southern Railway Baggage Cart in the prestigious Virginia Association of Museum's annual "Top Ten Artifacts" competition. Voting is done by the public. Voting begins on Aug. 1 and ends Aug. 31.
Springfield: Block Party for Safer Community
Franconia District residents help county police take a bite out of crime.
Nearly 100 residents of the Bren Mar community in Alexandria braved the humidity and celebrated Franconia District National Night Out Aug. 2 by taking a bite out of crime with a huge potluck supper.
Alexandria: Robinson Terminal North Reconsidered
Developers say plans for Old Town warehouse no longer economically viable.
Rooney Properties and CityInterests are reconsidering their options at Robinson Terminal North.
Alexandria Celebrates National Night Out
Law enforcement and community come together for a night of celebration.
There was a tense moment between law enforcement and a member of the local community on National Night Out in Alexandria.
Alexandria Survives Metro Mayhem
Reviewing a month of metro-shutdowns.
July was rough for the metro in Alexandria, but the city has emerged through the worst of it. Between July 5 and 18, Surges 3 and 4 involved complete line shutdowns between Reagan National Airport and Braddock Road, then in the other direction between Reagan National Airport and Pentagon City. The latter didn’t take place in Alexandria, but kept commuters from using the Metro to get to Washington D.C.
Alexandria: Teen’s Presidential Business
One hundred years of American elections at one Alexandria table.
It’s election season in America, but Trump and Hillary aren’t the only campaign pins showing up in Old Town Alexandria. Outside Big Wheel Bikes on The Strand, 14-year-old Diego Antonio Moore has a table full of election pins promoting candidates from Eisenhower to Obama.
Alexandria: Local Red Cross Blood Supplies Critically Low
Donate now.
Blood has a shelf life of 42 days, but in the Washington D.C. area, all available units are being snatched up within five days.
Alexandria Obituary: Colgate Selden Prentice
Colgate Selden Prentice (“Coke”) died on July 28, 2016, in Medford, N.J., with his three children by his side. Born on Jan. 10, 1924 in Newport News to a southern mother and Yankee father, Coke spent much of his childhood in Tidewater. He lived in Alexandria from 1951 to 1990.
Alexandria: Fighting Fire with Fun
Friendship Firehouse events kick off fundraising efforts.
He may not be Willy Wonka, but Dave Borghesani knows his chocolate. As chocolate history research manager at Mars Chocolate North America, Borghesani travels the country telling the story of the role chocolate has played in society for more than 3,500 years.
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Weekend Fun: Aug. 5-14
Entertainment
Events in Alexandria and Mount Vernon, Va.
Alexandria: Sharing Lifestyle That Keeps Her Young
Everyday is a 10 out of 10 for Annie Scheppach.
Annie Scheppach does not look her age. She looks almost two decades younger.
Editorial: An Open Letter to Readers and More
Buy an ad in our annual Newcomers and Community Guide, please.
Has your organization been featured in the Connection Newspapers, or the Alexandria Gazette Packet or the Mount Vernon Gazette or the Centre View or the Potomac Almanac?
Alexandria People at Work: Campolieta Thinks Outside the Piano
Daniel Campolieta remembers when he was about four years old his mother attached numbers with masking tape to the keys on a little plastic keyboard. "She wrote out the accompanying numbers for my favorite songs in a book — like the Ninja Turtles theme song." Campolieta's mother was a piano teacher and noticed he seemed to like it so his piano career started from there.
Alexandria Column: Providing Some Tips for Back-To-School Shopping
From The Old Town Boutique District
It just about time for those school bells to start ringing once again. To get you and your family ready for the new school year, here are some tricks and trends to help guide you through back-to-school clothing shopping.
Alexandria Column: Why Mentors Matter
Commentary–The Urban Alliance
Think back to that first “real” job you had.
Alexandria Letter: Solve Tour Bus Issue
Letter to the Editor
Isn’t it about time that our great city solve its current tour bus crisis by banning tour buses on our old and narrow streets in the Old and Historic District?
Alexandria Letter: Time for Hard Choices
Letter to the Editor
What will it take to get Council to understand — and act — on the fact that their cycle of spending more money than we have — to pay for discretionary services we cannot afford — and then raising taxes — is killing our city?
Alexandria Letter: Importance of Neighborhoods
Letter to the Editor
At present Alexandria is going through a process to develop a set of “Strategic Plan Goals” for 2016-2022.
Alexandria Letter: Planting Trees Too Closely?
Letter to the Editor
There has been much new construction around the city in the past few years.
Alexandria Letter: Evaluate Each Felon
Letter to the Editor
I am disappointed in the Alexandria Gazette Packet’s editorial stance [“Voting for Former Felons and Others,” July 21], joining our current governor’s campaign to restore voting rights to 206,000 convicted felons.
Alexandria Letter: Attend Irish Festival
Letter to the Editor
The Ballyshaners are thrilled to be hosting the Irish Festival on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Waterfront Park.
Alexandria Letter: Another Hotel?
Letter to the Editor
A proposed 6- or 7- story 124-room hotel Plan 1 has been submitted to Planning and Zoning on June of this year by developers to be built at 1617 and 1711 King Street in the Upper King street area, a few blocks from the King Street Metro station.
Alexandria Letter: Support Local Police
Letter to the Editor
Recently an Alexandria Police Department (APD) officer was denied service at a local restaurant in Alexandria solely because she was in uniform and the restaurant’s chef took umbrage with that fact and refused to cook her order.
Alexandria Letter: Council Needs Discipline
Letter to the Editor
Each time I pick up the newspaper I become more depressed. This city is poorly managed. Council is hugely committed to the affordable housing cause.
Alexandria Letter: Abuse of Power
Letter to the Editor
I commend the Alexandria Gazette Packet for drawing so cogent a nexus between tax and rent increases, complete with charts which scare off many a local weekly.
Alexandria Poetry Conversations: ‘The Peace of Wild Things’
Hello Alexandria! I am thrilled to have been appointed as the Poet Laureate of Alexandria.
Chantilly: SSTs End Season as Division Co-Champions
As the sun radiated down with intense heat in the early morning hours of Saturday, July 23, and while many were determined to find a cool place to hibernate, the SST swimmers of Sully Station took to the pool and performed like champions.
Chantilly: ‘A Great Addition to Our Community’
New townhouse development is coming to Chantilly.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors put out the welcome mat last week for a rezoning that’ll bring two dozen new townhouses to Chantilly. The community will be at Elmwood and Vernon streets and will be called Rockland Village Green.
Centreville: Infusion of Cash for I-66/Route 28 Improvements
Agency allocates $300 million for I-66/Route 28.
Good news for drivers who take the I-66/Route 28 exits and entrances in Centreville — and in this area, that’s pretty much everyone. A fix for the congestion, especially during rush hours, just took a giant step toward becoming a reality.
Tuesday, August 2
Reston: Meet Joanna and Janelle
Twin sisters, Joanna and Janelle Grove, of Reston, share enormous passion: baking bread.
Watching these two running their stand at a recent farmers’ market was a bit like seeing double. Well, the Reston-based Grove twins, Joanna and Janelle, are identical twins, after all, and deciding which is which is a bit challenging.
Herndon Leo Club Installs New Officers
The Herndon Leo Club installed its new officers at the club picnic held at Lake Fairfax on Saturday, July 9.
Herndon: Ride4SPIRIT is Coming to Frying Pan Park
The Ride4SPIRIT event is a presentation and fundraiser that honors the accomplishments of therapeutic riding and learning programs with horses in the community.
Reston Column: Clinging to the Past
Commentary
At the same time that the Nation is moving forward with a major political party nominating a woman as candidate for the presidency of the United States, Virginia institutions are clinging to past traditions that should have been abandoned decades ago.
Reston: Helping with Compassion
TJ student attends Congress of Future Medical Leaders.
Rising junior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Kamron Soldozy, represented Northern Virginia at the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, a gathering of the nation’s brightest high school students interested in medicine, from June 25-27.
Reston: Breuer-Designed 'Architectural Gem' Not Saved
Testimonials before Board of Supervisors didn’t matter; saving the American Press Institute designed by Marcel Breuer was not part of its purview.
Restonians left the county’s Board of Supervisors meeting July 26, 2016 incredulous.
Reston: Lake Anne Jazz Week Returns Aug. 26-Sept. 3
Week long activities to conclude with 10th Annual Lake Anne Jazz & Blues Festival.
Lake Anne Plaza has announced the return of their Lake Anne Jazz Week and the artist line up for their annual Jazz & Blues Festival, which will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The Lake Anne Jazz Week will take place starting Friday, Aug. 26 and will conclude on Saturday, Sept. 3, Labor Day Weekend, with the 10th Annual Jazz & Blues Festival.
Reston: New Stage for Tall Oaks
Plan approved for building 156 residential units plus 5,809 square feet of office space and 8,584 square feet of retail for center now 86 percent vacant.
The closing of Giant in 2007 started a slow decline of Tall Oaks Village Center, “once a vibrant and successful center that was supported by the community,” said Hunter Mill Supervisor Catherine Hudgins.
Double Honor: County and Steward
Learn how to identify invasives, to eradicate invasives, and to get involved. See vnps.org.
Dranesville Supervisor John W. Foust has watched many of the thousands of hours McLean’s Alan Ford has worked in Dranesville and federal parks.
Potomac: Safetrack Surge #6 Begins on Red Line
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s (WMATA) first surges to affect the Red Line have begun. Surge #6 will take place Aug. 1-7 and Surge #7 is scheduled to occur Aug. 9-18.
Potomac: Help Police Identify Burglary Suspect
Detectives from the Montgomery County Police Department – 2nd District Investigative Section released photos from a surveillance video of the suspect in the burglary that occurred at the Seven Locks Swim & Tennis Club in Potomac. They are asking for the public’s help in identifying him.
Potomac: Local Retirement Communities Honored
Award designed to recognize quality of care for seniors and the disabled.
The American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) announced the winners of its National Quality Award Program. Several local retirement communities were honored, including Sunrise Senior Living facilities in Bethesda, and Arlington, Mount Vernon, Alexandria and Fairfax, Virginia.
Potomac Column: A Plea to the Next President of the United States
Commentary
County Executive Ike Leggett joined national city leaders in call for immigration reform on July 26.
Potomac Brief: Co-op Eases Solar Panel Buys
The Montgomery County Solar Co-op has selected Solar Energy World, the locally owned solar company in Maryland with over 2000 installations since founding in 2009, to install solar panels for the group. Co-op members selected Solar Energy World through a competitive proposal process over seven other firms.
Potomac Brief: Canal Quarters Need Quartermasters
The C&O Canal Trust is looking for volunteer Quartermasters to help with its award-winning Canal Quarters program.
Potomac Brief: Comment on Proposed New Ride On Route
Ride On is expanding its services to meet the demand for smaller, isolated communities.
Potomac Brief: Foundations Give $10,000 To Help Holocaust Survivors
The Family & Nursing Care Foundation, a fund of the Community Foundation for Montgomery County, issued a $10,000 grant to Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA) on Monday, Aug. 1, to provide in-home care private duty services to at-risk, aging Holocaust survivors in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties and in Washington, D.C.
Potomac News Brief: Check Disability Parking Signs
During the 25-year anniversary month of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Montgomery County has launched a new initiative to help ensure that the signage for disability parking spaces in Montgomery County complies with the state of Maryland’s Accessibility Code adopted under the Public Safety Code.
Arlington: End of Summer Safetracking
Metro gets back on track.
Surge 5 ended with a bang. On Friday, July 29, a Metro train derailed near the East Falls Church Metro Station.
Arlington: Groundbreaking for Transform I-66 Tolling Project
Garvey pitches parks overhead.
After 30 years of talking and planning, work is finally starting on the Transform I-66 project. Eight toll gantries will be installed along I-66 inside the beltway with tolling operations expected to begin in summer 2017.
Alexandria Appetite: 3 Gold-Medal Spots to Watch the Olympics
Looking for a restaurant to whet your appetite while you cheer on the USA? Here are three at the top of the list.
After the usual four-year absence, Summer Olympics mania is ready for liftoff again. Looking for a change of scenery to watch your favorite sports? Here are three restaurants that are sure to be gold-medal bets.
Arlington Snapshot: Honored for Fundraising
Marymount University earned the Award of Excellence from the Foundation for Physical Therapy, which was given to schools that donated $10,000 during its 2015-2016 Pittsburgh-Marquette Challenge.
Arlington Snapshot: At Children's Science Center Lab
Nearly 700 children and adults helped the Children's Science Center Lab celebrated its first birthday as a destination in the region for opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math education.
What We Did on V-J Day
Vienna resident’s memories of the end of the war.
Memories of WW ll in an American child's mind are a distinct set of curiosities -- special activities removed from the ordinary day to day routine of growing up.
Mall STEM Lab Celebrates First Birthday
Children's Science Center Lab celebrates with cake, a new robot, aquarium and checks worth $125,000.
Some children go to the shopping mall because their moms have to run errands or it's a nice place to hang out with friends. Who knew Fair Oaks Mall is a go-to place to conduct science experiments, program a robot and make stuff out of a 3-D printer?
Passion to Excel in STEM Field
CORE Foundations hosts Summer Camp for area children.
At most summer camps, children are encouraged to step away from their screens and head outdoors. But for the campers enrolled in a program conducted by Core Foundations, a local nonprofit that encourages children to follow their passions in STEM fields, it was all about learning how to innovate with technology.
Great Falls: Around the World with Music
Piano students of Artstars Studio in Great Falls recently held recitals with an Olympic theme.
Great Falls: Make Land Use More Accessible
Board pledges to develop recommendations for the involvement of citizens in the land-use process.
The Board of Supervisors gave final approval for 19 homes to be developed on Brooks Farm, along Springvale Road and Forest Lake Drive.
Great Falls Letter: Gas Leaking Detectors Needed
Letter to the Editor
My name is Michael, a 13-year old resident in Great Falls and I want to express my concerns over a well known public health issue.
Vienna: Antioch Christian Church Welcomes a New Pastor
Antioch Christian Church welcomed its new Pastor, Dr. Carl S. Sweatman and his family, on Sunday, July 3, 2016. His formal Installation Service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016.
Vienna: ‘Godspell’ at Emmanuel Lutheran Church
Ashton Schaffer, a 2015 James Madison graduate, is directing a children’s summer drama camp and an intergenerational production of “Godspell” this week at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Vienna (2589 Chain Bridge Road).
Vienna: Putting Their Money Where Their Heart Is
Vienna siblings raise funds for children rescued from child labor and human trafficking.
Vienna siblings Medhnaa Saran, 12, and her younger brother Kushaan, 11, are on a mission to help children halfway across the world, victims of child labor and trafficking, to be safe and to get an education.
Vienna: Big Splash on Town Green Made a Big Splash
Hundreds of kids and parents turned out for water fun.
The Town of Vienna Parks and Recreation Department picked the ideal sultry summer day – July 31 - for its first-ever Big Splash on the Town Green.
McLean: Partnership to Support Disabled Veterans
Navy Marine Coast Guard Residence Foundation and Veterans Moving Forward, Inc. announce their new partnership in support of disabled veterans. This collaboration will provide lodging for out-of-town veterans and their families accessing VMF programs during interviews and subsequent introductions to, and training with, their service dogs.
McLean: Back to School Waits for Back to School
Decision regarding expansion of Falls Church City school postponed until the Fall; McLean Citizens Association continues to oppose the application.
Falls Church City Public Schools wants to expand Mount Daniel Elementary School to educate the school system’s first and second graders.
Monday, August 1
Alexandria: Resurrecting Fort Ward
Committee pieces together the controversial history of historic Alexandria site.
Alexandria’s Fort Ward has a long history, but resources to commemorate that history are limited.