Tuesday, June 30
Arrest made in Reston Murder Case
A man has been arrested and charged with second degree murder after a woman was found dead last week inside of a house in Reston.
Cool Clear Water Beckons in Reston
RA opens select pools; lifeguards needed.
No one knew if it would happen this summer, but it did. Following state and local Phase 2 safety guidelines, Reston Association (RA) opened four pools to Registered Pass holders on Monday, June 29.
Opinion: Commentary: Back to Work Without Delay
Back in March, a couple of weeks after the 2020 General Assembly session had adjourned, I wrote in my weekly column that while the annual meeting of the state legislature had been “historic, transformative, and consequential” there was also as I titled the column “More Work Left to be Done.”
Love & Unity Prayer Rally Held in Herndon
Not changing the narrative, changing the atmosphere.
In the Town of Herndon, population 23,000, faith-based organizations gathered with the Town's police force.
Reston Attorney Becomes Virginia State Bar Leader
Jay B. Myerson of Reston is the Virginia State Bar (VSB) president-elect for 2020-2021 and will serve as president for 2021-2022. Myerson, who assumes his VSB president-elect position July 1, will be the first attorney whose law firm is based in Reston to serve in this statewide capacity.
The Oak Marr Market is Open for Business
The Oak Marr farmer’s market in Oakton opened up on June 10 after being closed for several weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Safe Community Coalition to Launch Peer-to-Peer Coaching Program
The Safe Community Coalition is sponsoring a student-led, pilot peer-to-peer coaching program for high school and college students. The pilot program will train 10 high school and college students to facilitate circles with four or five of their peers.
Teens Rally to End COVID-19
Area teenagers organize the Car Cruise to End COVID-19, raising $7,800 for the American Nurses Association.
In April, Andrew Morin, Eric Mical, Tommy Zavrel, and Peter Hayes, all between 16 to 17 years old, started organizing the Car Cruise to End COVID-19.
Opinion: Column: Mourning, Afternoon and Evening
We had to euthanize Biscuit, our oldest cat, on Saturday, June 20th. He would have been 14 on September 20th.
Use of Force Rises in 2019 in Fairfax County
Disproportionate treatment of African Americans recorded in every police district in the county.
While Black people are less than 10 percent of the Fairfax County population (9.7 percent), they are the targets for use of force by police 46.53 percent of the time.
Ready or Not, Here Comes Phase 3 in Fairfax County
Tracer data sparse; COVID clusters threaten.
Fairfax County, along with the rest of the state, is expected to enter the third phase of reopening on Wednesday, July 1.
Monday, June 29
Fairfax County Supervisors Approve Paid Family Leave
Helping County employees meet family demands and employment responsibilities.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved Paid Family Leave for County employees during its June 23, 2020 Board meeting.
Marijuana Decriminalized July 1 in Virginia
Will decriminalization of marijuana stop inequitable treatment for communities of color?
Who is more likely to be charged, asked Braddock Supervisor James Walkinshaw. An executive of a defense contractor smoking marijuana on his deck overlooking woods in Clifton or Great Falls, or the Black teen or young adult walking down Route One in Mount Vernon, or on a street in the Annandale or Culmore sections of Fairfax County?
Remote or In-School Learning in Fairfax County
County families should respond by July 10.
School reopens for Fairfax County Public Schools students in eight weeks. That means that families in the 10th largest school division in the United States have until Friday, July 10, to respond with their enrollment choice for the entire 2020-21 school year.
Using Holistic Practices
How Yoga and Meditation can help ease anxiety over racial injustice.
Before the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent stay-at-home orders, Kesha Davis’s weekday evening routine included picking up her fifteen-year-old son at a bus stop in Old Town Alexandria.
Thursday, June 25
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: A Different Way of Looking at the Data
The Gazette reports that “African Americans are often targets of strong-arm tactics” by the Alexandria Police Department, and that disproportionate growth of the Department’s budget over the last 20 years has “led many to question the allocation of public resources.” (“Disproportionate Use of Force”, June 11, 2020.)
Opinion: Commentary: New Voting Laws
With the primaries now behind us it is not too soon to turn our attention to the General Election on Nov. 3 and Virginia’s new voting laws that will go into effect on July 1st.
Original Mount Vernon High School Renovation Meeting Monday, June 29
A virtual community meeting is planned for June 29, 2020 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to provide updates on the Original Mount Vernon High School Renovation and Adaptive Reuse project.
Engin Artemel Dies at 81
Former Alexandria Director of Planning spearheaded waterfront development.
The story is one of family legend. When Engin Artemel first arrived in the United States from Istanbul, Turkey, he had $20 in his pocket and virtually no English in his vocabulary.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Black Lives Matter
The people of our nation are being attacked by the very system that is required by law to help them, serve them, and protect them from crimes against them.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Terminate Local Agreements with Park Police
As you know, on Monday, June 1, 2020, the United States Park Police (USPP) used tear gas on citizens at Lafayette Square who were peacefully exercising their constitutional rights prior to any curfew.
Q&A with Brielle Brown, Graduating Senior, West Potomac High School
My biggest hardship since school has been closed for the remainder of the year has been preparing for my AP exams outside of the classroom. With distance learning classes only taking place two days a week, I am doing a lot of studying and reviewing on my own.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: It’s Time to Rename Pickett Street
In 1953, the Alexandria City Council renamed more than 30 streets for Confederate military leaders after it annexed a portion of Fairfax County.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Police End Barricade Peacefully
On June 4, police were alerted to a person in distress in an apartment building in Potomac Yard that ended without incident thanks to a professional, measured, well-trained response from the officers of the Alexandria Police and Sheriff’s Departments, as well as assistance from the Fairfax County Police Department.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Removal of Statue Denies City’s History
I am writing to comment on the removal of the iconic Confederate Soldier statue at the intersection of South Washington Street and Prince Street in Old Town, Alexandria.
Alexandria City Council Prohibits Firearms on City Property
Following a public hearing June 20, the Alexandria City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance prohibiting firearms and ammunition in City facilities, parks and areas requiring special event permits.
School Board Votes to Change the Lee High School Name
The Fairfax County School Board has voted to change the name of Robert E. Lee High School, and will gather community input prior to voting on the new name on July 23.
Honoring the Confederacy Does Not Honor Black Lives
Seven descendants of Confederate colonel support renaming of Mosby Woods Elementary.
As mass movements across the United States and Virginia respond to generations of police brutality and systemic racism by toppling Confederate statues and holding protests, members of the Fairfax County School Board are using their power to effect change.
Fairfax High Lions Instead of Rebels
Next name change could be Lanier Middle School.
In the wave of the Black Lives Matter Movement – plus the anti-Confederate sentiment sweeping the country – Fairfax High’s mascot and teams will no longer be the Rebels. Instead, they’ll be called the Lions.
Preparing for Fall Like No Other
Area college students reflect on how pandemic affects their plans.
As the fall semester approaches, Virginia colleges have begun to make plans to reopen with precautions to keep students, faculty and staff safe from COVID-19.
Local Students Receive Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute Scholarships
Several local students recently received Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute scholarships. Given to students pursuing an education in criminal justice, they were presented by Fairfax County Sheriff Stacey Kincaid.
Honored at William and Mary
Emily Key, of Burke, is on the Fall 2019 and Spring 2020 dean’s list at the College of William and Mary and was inducted into Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society for Freshman and the Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society for first year success.
Use of Force Rises in 2019 in Fairfax County
Disproportionate treatment of African Americans on the rise, too.
While Black people are less than 10 percent of the Fairfax County population (9.7 percent), they are the targets for use of force by police 53 percent percent of the time, 315 of 594 incidents.
Contracted Locally, Makers Sew 45,000 Face Masks
New jobs for unemployed and new revenue stream for nonprofit.
Unthinkable scenarios happened in early March. The COVID-19 pandemic hurled itself into Northern Virginia; small and large businesses shuttered and unemployment rates escalated.
Black, Male and Arrested in Alexandria
Alexandria’s war on drugs hits black males hardest.
According to the Alexandria Police Department, 64 percent of people arrested in Alexandria for drug arrests last year were African American. Almost half of those arrests were Black males.
Wednesday, June 24
Appetite: On the Menu: Goings-On in Alexandria Restaurants
From permanent restaurant closures to a focus on private parties to wholesalers becoming direct-to-consumer distributors, the pandemic has brought with it quite a few changes to the area’s food-and-drink landscape.
‘People Stepping Up and Helping Out’ in Centreville and Chantilly
Families in need receive free dairy products.
When times are tough, people already having a hard time making ends meet need an extra hand. So last Monday, June 15, volunteers gave out free milk and other dairy products to Centreville and Chantilly families, plus the food pantries that support them.
Mountain View High Students Graduate
Mountain View High held a social-distancing graduation outside the school, June 8-9.
Improperly Discarded Fireworks Cause House Fire in Chantilly
Fire officials say improperly discarded fireworks caused a house fire, June 13, in Chantilly’s Franklin Farm neighborhood.
Car Crash Kills Centreville Man, 53
A Centreville man has died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash last Thursday, June 18, in Centreville.
Pools In For Summer in Potomac
Pools allowed to open as county enters Phase 2 of Covid recovery.
The good news came just hours before the actual beginning of summer. Public swimming pools in Montgomery County could open.
Signs of the Times in Potomac
We suspect that graduation signs are probably here to stay, even if graduations are able to go forward in person next year. Here’s a sampler from a neighborhood walk.
Three Suspects Charged for Vandalism to Walt Whitman High School
Officers from the 2nd District of the Montgomery County Department of Police have charged a 17-year-old male juvenile for the June 13 and the March 1 racist vandalisms that occurred to Walt Whitman High School.
Covid-19 Response in Potomac
Metro announced that 15 rail stations that had been closed as part of the transit agency’s Covid-19 response will reopen on Sunday, June 28.
Opinion: Commentary: Our Work Continues
This year has the potential to bring about profound, long-overdue change.
Like millions of Americans across the country, Congress has had to adapt to the new reality we find ourselves in.
Arlington Has New Director of Corrections
Major Gretchen Foster is the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office Director of Corrections, effective Monday, June 22. Foster is the first female Director of Corrections in Arlington’s history.
Washington-Liberty High School Celebrates Graduation in Arlington
After the virtual graduation ceremony held online at 10 a.m. June 18, Washington-Liberty High School 2020 graduates celebrated with a motorcade parade beginning on 15th Street and driving down Quincy Street and around the school.
Arlington Couple Cleans Up Nice
Two residents dedicate themselves to cleaning up the banks of the Potomac.
You’ve seen the trash along the banks of the Potomac and you might even have picked up a plastic bottle or bag two to bring home for recycling.
Jesus Collazos Was More Than Our Mailman
Four years ago, we moved into a neighborhood that really felt like one. Houses are not too far apart, so neighbors know one another, and stop to check in.
National Landing BID Unveils Unified District
The Crystal City Business Improvement District is officially renamed the National Landing Business Improvement District (BID) following an action by its voting membership at its annual meeting today.
Reston Mural Judged Among Top 100 Globally
People's Choice voting open.
Public Art Reston's commissioned mural, Thoreau's Ensemble, (2019) by Ben Volta, located at the Colts Neck Road underpass in Reston, is a Top 100 Finalist in the prestigious annual CODAawards.
Warner Visits to Tout Bill for NPS Parks
National Park maintenance bill Includes million for GW Memorial Parkway and related parks.
Park bill
Locals Embark on Paranormal Television Series
”The Witching Hour” was awarded for their non-fiction series.
Paranormal Show
Opinion: Commentary: Words Have Meanings
Words have meanings defined in the dictionary that can take on other meaning within the context in which they are being used.
Tuesday, June 23
Opinion: Independent Progressive: Lake Anne Audit—Mismanagement, Appearance of Self-Dealing
On June 11 the Forensic and Integrity Services group of the audit firm Ernst & Young presented the findings of its forensic audit of the prior Board of the Lake Anne Condominium Association (LARCA) to a membership meeting.
Black Lives Matter Banner Stolen from Reston Church
Theft reported Juneteenth 2020.
A large banner reading Black Lives Matter was reported stolen along with its supporting posts on Juneteenth 2020 from church grounds of the Unitarian Universalist Church Reston.
Don't Touch the Veggies in Herndon
COVID-19 Safety Guidelines in place as Herndon Farmers Market reopens.
The 2020 Herndon Farmers Market, operated under Fairfax County Park Authority, opened for the season later than normal, not on the usual third Thursday in April, but on June 18.
Uncertainties of the Fall 2020 High School Sports Season
Local student athletes weigh in.
As the fate of in-person classes for high schools in the fall remains unknown, another uncertainty – the fall high school sports season – is on many student athletes’ minds.
McLean Parks Open for ‘Responsible Recreation’
As of June 12, McLean parks have opened under Phase Two COVID-19 Guidelines.
People: ‘Happy Birthday Dear Lucille’
The “Roarin’ Twenties” were just getting started when McLean resident Lucille Quinn was born.
Great Falls Student Wins Rotary Essay Contest
Peyton Walcott of Great Falls, a rising freshman at Langley High School, won first place in the Rotary District 7610 Four-Way Test Essay Contest for his essay, “Applying the Rotary Club Four-Way Test in Today’s Polarized World.”
Opinion: Commentary: Terminate Memoranda of Understanding with US Park Police
As you know, on Monday, June 1, 2020, the United States Park Police (USPP) used tear gas on citizens at Lafayette Square who were peacefully exercising their constitutional rights prior to any curfew.
Opinion: Column: Masking My True Feelings
For those of us living in states where mask-wearing is mostly mandatory (indoors: yes, outdoors: not nearly as much), it is very easy to hide one's emotions.
Seniors Join Protests for Racial Injustice
Remembering the past to inform the future.
Long before there was a Black Lives Matter movement and smart phones that captured police brutality on video, and long before throngs of people filled streets around the world to protest racial injustice, there were smaller crowds of pioneers fighting to tear down barriers imposed by Jim Crow laws.
‘We Can’t Wait Until 2021’ in Fairfax County
Calls for police reform intensify in the days since Fairfax County officer charged with assault for tasing man in Gum Springs.
The institution of policing dates back to the institution of slavery. “It has to be acknowledged as such. What happened 400 years ago is actually manifesting itself in practice today,” said Fairfax County Chief Equity Officer Karla Bruce.
Friday, June 19
Opinion: Commentary: Economy May Be Rebounding
This week, I virtually attended our second Appropriations meeting since we adjourned the April General Assembly reconvene session.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Oppose Prohibition of Firearms on City Property
To the members of the Alexandria City Council: As a gun owner with a Concealed Handgun Permit (“CHP”) and native of Alexandria, I believe that your proposed anti-gun ordinance will infringe upon my freedoms.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Reconsider What We Expect Police To Do
The article by Michael Lee Pope, “Disproportionate Use of Force” (June 11, 2020), was most disturbing. I was angered by the story of the white police officer’s harassment of a black Alexandria citizen who was simply doing his job.
Feeding the Fight in Alexandria
Friendship Firehouse wraps up food delivery.
Members of the Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association wrapped up a 6-week period of delivering over 600 meals to Alexandria firefighters with a donation of lunches June 5 from Foster’s Grille.
Opinion: Commentary: South County Task Force Statement on Police Tasing of Gum Springs Resident
The South County Task Force, an activist group in Mt. Vernon and Lee Districts, denounces the tasing and assault of La Monta Gladney, a black man in the Gum Springs community, by officer Tyler Timberlake from the Mt. Vernon Police Station.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Help Struggling Businesses
For several months now, I have noticed the increasing number of empty storefronts downtown. King Street, Washington Street, Pitt Street -- all have “For Rent” signs now. Most recently, Walgreens on King Street closed on March 5.
Workhouse Arts Center Launches Community Market
The Workhouse Arts Center will launch the weekly Workhouse Community Market.
A Vested Interest in Alexandria
APD K-9 Taz to receive body armor.
The Alexandria Police Department’s K-9 Taz, a 2-year old German Shepherd who was imported from Hungary, will receive a bullet and stab protective vest, thanks to a donation from local residents Chuck and Cathy Rey and the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K-9s, Inc.
‘Homegrown’ Filmmakers in Alexandria
ASO, Film Festival announce joint partnership selections.
The Alexandria Film Festival, in partnership with the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, has announced the six filmmakers that have been selected to participate in its joint project, HomeGrown: American Stories in Music and Film.
Alexandria City Council Adopts Resolution 2950
SYSTEMIC RACISM: In its resolution, City Council acknowledges that the plight of black and brown Americans is not only present in the form of police brutality, but is also entrenched in institutions such as the judicial system, the electoral process, career advancement, education, housing and the health care system.
Shelter Experiences in Alexandria May Be Virtual, but They’re Still Warm and Fuzzy
“Tigger, Tigger,” 13-year-old Allayna said over and over, as a year-old pit bull terrier she had never met leaped in her lap and licked her face.
Hayfield Secondary School Graduates Parade in Kingstowne
On the afternoon of Sunday, June 7, Hayfield graduates gathered in the parking lot in Kingstowne and set out on a self-made graduation parade.
West Springfield Teens’ Protest in Pictures
With no formal group sponsorship, and using only social media, a group of friends connected through West Springfield High School organized a well-attended Springfield protest in support of Black Lives Matter for several hours on June 10.
Springfield Teens March Against Racism
Hundreds join Black Lives Matter movement.
At 4:30 p.m. on June 10, hundreds of Springfield locals gathered to protest systemic racism and emphasize that Black lives matter.
‘This Was Something I Could Count On’ in Centreville
Paul VI seniors honored in neighborhood’s graduation parade.
Thanks to COVID-19, this year’s high-school seniors didn’t get to have their achievements and graduation recognized in a public way.
‘One Step in the Long Road to Recovery’ in Fairfax City
City creates grant program for its businesses.
Fairfax City received some $2.1 million of Virginia’s CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act funds. And last Tuesday, June 9, City Council approved using $1,150,000 of this money for a business-support grant program, Fairfax City ReConnected Grant, to help small City businesses impacted by COVID-19.
Partying While Social Distancing
Area high school graduates reflect on drive-through diplomas, basement prom parties.
As seniors everywhere are adjusting to the loss of their final year in high school, many have had to get creative to celebrate their long-awaited accomplishments.
Titan Triumph
T.C. Williams holds online commencement.
It wasn’t the graduation ceremony the senior class expected when the school year began in September, but across the city students and families celebrated June 13 as T.C. Williams High School held a virtual graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020.
Opinion: Commentary: Fairfax County NAACP Demands for Police Reform and Accountability
At a Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, June 16, the Fairfax County NAACP unveiled the following vision and demands for police reform:
Potomac Home Sales: May, 2020
In May, 2020, 44 Potomac homes sold between $3,000,000-$510,000.
Potomac Home Sales: May, 2020
Thursday, June 18
‘We’re Grateful You Were our Theater Director’
Zoom retirement party for Centreville High’s Mike Hudson.
Mike Hudson’s taught for 40 years – the last 30 as Centreville High’s theater teacher/director. And he and his students have always had such a strong bond that they didn’t call him “Mr. Hudson,” but “Huddy,” as a term of endearment.
Suspicious Death Ruled Homicide; Juvenile Suspect Charged with Murder
A 17-year-old has been charged after detectives linked him to the June 23, 2019 murder of Jose Lorenzo Guillen Mejia.
Virtual Ceremonies for Churchill, Whitman Graduations
As with graduates from all Montgomery County public high schools, Winston Churchill and Walt Whitman students celebrated graduation virtually this year.
Tow Truck Driver Killed in a Multi-Vehicle Crash
At 10:22 p.m. on Monday, June 8, Trooper L. Vajglova responded to a multi-vehicle crash on I-495, less than a mile north of Route 236 in Fairfax County.
Man in Crosswalk Killed by Driver
Fairfax County police are investigating after a Centreville man was struck by a car and killed, while walking in a crosswalk.
Stand Up for Racial Justice
More than 400 members of several churches and synagogues in Potomac, Bethesda and Chevy Chase gathered for concurrent peaceful, interfaith vigils on June 7 to stand in support of racial justice.
Danger in and Around Potomac River at Great Falls
Observe the warnings, come prepared, enjoy the Potomac River.
Swift Water Rescue Crews and National Park Service Rangers have observed many people putting themselves in danger in and around the Potomac River the last few weeks, while area rescue crews have already responded to several drownings this year.
Racism: As American as Apple Pie?
One bill passed, one introduced, to start untangling systematic and institutional racism here in Montgomery County.
“We are in a historic moment here in our country and in the world,” said Councilmember Will Jawando.
Pick Up What You Need—Every Six Weeks in Arlington
Ronda Gilliam Clothing Bank, sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church, has reopened at the Arlington Methodist Building located at 716 S. Glebe Road.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Arlington for Justice Urges Arlington County Board to Reform Policing
Reduce police budget, invest in community, end over-policing and racial profiling.
Dear Arlington County Board: On behalf of Arlington for Justice, we are writing to share our concerns about the role of the Arlington County Police Department, especially its recent actions on June 1, 2020 to remove nonviolent protesters who were lawfully protesting in DC, and our recommendations for reform.
Ribbon Cutting Marks Conservation Stewardship
NOVA Parks acknowledges donors.
NOVA Parks and Fairfax County officials and staff celebrated, honoring the gift of an additional 32 acres to the Pohick Regional Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Lorton park on June 11.
Serving People In Dire Need in Alexandria
Pop-up grocery moves from Christ Church to Personal Delivery Services with daily food deliveries to people falling between the cracks.
The regular Thursday morning pop-up grocery at Historic Christ Church has been closed for the last three months and transformed into a delivery service.
DOJ Filing Supports Major Expansion of Arlington National Cemetery
Expansion would link Arlington National Cemetery with U.S. Air Force Memorial.
The Department of Justice Monday filed a civil action on behalf of the Department of the Army for the taking of roadways owned or operated by Arlington County by eminent domain for the purpose of expanding Arlington National Cemetery.
Alexandria: This Week in Covid
Library fees, George Floyd, pandemic within pandemic, combating institutional racism, playgrounds opening, auto loan relief and more.
The Virginia Department of Health updated its demographics dashboard to include additional racial reporting categories for case, hospitalization and death data.
Wednesday, June 17
Alexandria’s Income Gaps
Whites make three times as much as Hispanic workers, twice as much as black workers.
White Alexandria is pulling in significantly more money than Hispanic workers and African Americans, according to numbers from the United States Census Bureau. A look at average income shows non-Hispanic whites make more than $85,000 a year. That’s more than three times the average income for Hispanic workers, $24,000, and more than twice the average income for black workers, $37,000.
Appetite: How Are Restaurants Handling Phase 2 in Alexandria?
As Phase 2 of the state’s Forward Virginia plan nears the end of its first week in Alexandria, restaurants are settling into the new rules in different ways.
Pedestrian Killed on I-66 in Arlington
On Saturday, June 6 at 12:32 a.m., Trooper M. Dalton responded to a crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 66, just west of Route 29 for Exit 73 in Arlington County.
COVID-19: Not a Fair Fight
Regional perspective: pandemic exposes health inequality leading up to discrepancies in life expectancy.
The zip codes with higher concentrations of poverty, lower education levels, and crowded housing conditions tend to have the highest rates of COVID.
Scenario 1, 2 or 3: What Will It Be in Fairfax County?
2020-21 school plans presented to the County School Board.
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) presented their preliminary recommendations for the 2020-21 school year to the Fairfax County School Board on Monday, June 15, during its work session.
Four Road Projects Move Forward in Transportation Approval Chain in Fairfax County
Road projects are spread throughout County.
Transportation in Fairfax County got a boost lately when the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority moved forward on four projects in the county that are designed to help traffic congestion.
Confederacy is Part of History, Not the Future
School board continues renaming process for County high school.
"School names will reflect an inclusive and respectful learning environment as outlined in our One Fairfax policy," said Lee District School Board Representative Tamara Derenak Kaufax, Fairfax County Public Schools.
Yorktown High School Graduation Parade
Forty-two vehicles filled with graduating Yorktown High School seniors lined up at Madison Center, and escorted by motorcycle police, they headed toward Glebe Road on Sunday afternoon.
A Book A Day Keeps the Coronavirus Away in Arlington
Moms Demand Action volunteers delivered hundreds of new and gently used books and games June 9 to children participating in the weekly Barcroft Elementary School food distribution program.
Tuesday, June 16
Opinion: Column: Taking the Results in Stride
Apparently, I'm back in the lung cancer business. According to the video visit I had June 8 with my endocrinologist, my thyroid cancer has not moved into my lungs where my oncologist thought it might have – given the results of a previous biopsy and some surprising tumor inactivity in my lungs.
ARTSFAIRFAX Provides Emergency Relief and Recovery Grants
"As we move into Phase 2 of openings, the arts community is still suffering the economic impacts of COVID-19," said Linda S. Sullivan, President & CEO of ARTSFAIRFAX.
Pandemic Patience: Counselor at NVFS Calms New Mothers
Tele-mental health during COVID-19 is the new normal for the Healthy Families Program.
Mental health counselor Bianca Molinari Anez knows what it is like to encounter postpartum depression; she experienced it herself. That’s one of the reasons she is so devoted to the group of women she counsels.
Northern Virginia Family Service: More than a Safety Net for 100 Years
During the Great Depression, they handed out coal and coats. Now, it’s an array of services.
Ninety-five years ago, Northern Virginia Family Service handed out coats and coal in Alexandria. Today, the organization has a much broader mission and geographic reach throughout Northern Virginia and – in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic – an increased need for its services.
Discussing Racial Injustice with Children
Books and visual art can help begin difficult conversations.
As horrific scenes of police brutality and images of passionate protesters fighting for racial justice are ubiquitous in a smartphone and social media obsessed society, parental control over information that children receive can be limited. Framing and discussing such issues can be equally as challenging.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Statement from the Mayors and Chairs of Northern Virginia
As the Mayors and Chairs of Northern Virginia, we raise our collective voices on behalf of the more than 2.5 million residents of our region to express our sorrow for the decades of injustices that have befallen the African American community in America.
Resilience and Recovery
Cornerstones holds ‘A Virtual Town Hall with Fairfax County Officials.’
Three words characterize Cornerstones' work: stability, empowerment and hope. On Monday, June 8, the nonprofit organization held a Virtual Town Hall with Fairfax County officials from the Dranesville and Hunter Mill districts.
Opinion: Commentary: Black Lives Matter
We are on the verge of making the statement a reality.
Black lives matter. Period. No further explanation or expansion of the phrase is needed.
Change Through Communal Voice
Local high school students join Black Lives Matter movement.
Leaders of Change Coalition held a Black Lives Matter March in front of the Herndon Municipal Center Sunday, June 7.
Obituary: A Life Well-Lived
Robert A. Shawn of Herndon dies shortly after 100th birthday.
Robert A. Shawn passed away at home on Sunday, May 24, 2020. Born May 6, 1920, "Colonel Bob" celebrated his 100th birthday two and half weeks before his passing.
A Series of Fortunate Events in Herndon
Serendipity scores for a print school newspaper.
When Michael Wemyss, Herndon High School Class of 2020, sat down on day one in his junior year journalism class, he assumed that the course focused on the school yearbook.
Monday, June 15
Area College Students Prepare for an Unusual Fall
As a new round of high school seniors are moving on to college in the fall and continuing students get back to campus, it’s unclear how college campuses will look due to new precautions to ease the spread of COVID-19 and how it could affect college students’ experience.
McLean Farmers Market Open at Last
With new safety precautions in place, the market aims to be safer than grocery stores.
All across the country, COVID-19 has been disrupting businesses. One of those businesses is the McLean Farmers Market, which had its opening delayed by six weeks because of the Virginia health restrictions implemented due to COVID-19.
The Other Alexandria: We Were Part of the Sunnyside Community: Lovell Arvid Lee
It was 1874 when junk dealer and real estate owner Charles A. Watson died in Alexandria, Virginia. He left his entire estate to his wife, Laura Ware (Wair) Watson. Together Laura and her three sons, Frank, Thomas Montgomery and Elbert turned their real estate into one of the first African American housing communities in Alexandria.
Safely Celebrating Seniors in Alexandria
Commonwealth Academy holds drive-in graduation.
Alexandria’s Commonwealth Academy creatively celebrated its class of 2020 with a drive-in ceremony June 5 in the Potomac Yard parking lot.
Friday, June 12
Twig Donates $100k to Inova Alexandria
Funds to be used in COVID-19 care.
The Twig Junior Auxiliary of Inova Alexandria Hospital presented a check for $100,000 to Dr. Rina Bansal for the Inova COVID-19 Emergency Preparedness Fund during a May 22 ceremony held outside the hospital’s entrance.
‘Not Again’: Tavares Floyd Mourns Loss of His Cousin George
“Not again” is the first thing that went through the mind of Tavares Floyd, a local Civil Rights attorney, when an aunt called him with the news of the death of his cousin George while in police custody in Minneapolis on May 25.
Phase Two in Alexandria
Indoor dining, retail operations can resume June 12.
Northern Virginia will begin entering Phase Two of the Virginia Forward plan June 12, with restaurants and retail operations able to resume indoor services under strict COVID-19 guidelines.
Alexandria Protests Continue
Hundreds gather at Charles Houston for George Floyd rally.
One by one the names were read aloud. For eight minutes and 46 seconds – the time that George Floyd suffered with the knee of a police officer on his neck during an arrest in Minneapolis – the names of African Americans who died at the hands of law enforcement rang through the crowd gathered June 4 at the Charles Houston Recreation Center.
Opinion: Commentary: Community Comes Together for Equality and Justice
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Beyond the Walls March for Justice, Tuesday, organized by Pastor Brian Brown and his youth church.
Opinion: Commentary: The Time to Act is Now
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said that “a riot is the language of the unheard.” The centuries-long pain and suffering of black communities across this Commonwealth and our nation is clearer now to majority whites than ever before.
Freedom of Speech or Zoning Violation in Alexandria?
Seminary Road debate resurfaces after sign violation.
The Alexandria Board of Zoning Appeals has rejected a request from an Alexandria homeowner to display a 4-foot-by-8-foot sign declaring his opposition to the controversial Seminary Road diet.
Alexandria’s Week in Coronavirus
Quaranteens, nursing home holes, virtual boxing, rental relief and more.
BACKLOGGED TESTS: Starting on June 9, the Virginia Department of Health’s COVID-19 data dashboard will reflect 13,000 additional tests that were backlogged.
Northern Virginia Regional Parks Land Acreage
New parcels grow two parks.
NOVA Parks will mark the acquisition of land to add acreage to two existing parks with ribbon-cutting ceremonies: this week at Occoquan Regional Park, in Lorton, and later, in July, at Pohick Bay Regional Park, located on Mason Neck.
Thursday, June 11
Drive-in Movie Theater Opens in Lorton
Workhouse Arts Center opening family-friendly entertainment.
Adapting to the special circumstances of COVID-19 with the need for social distancing, the Workhouse Arts Center will be presenting movie entertainment for the whole family.
Fairfax City: ‘No Lives Matter Until Black Lives Matter’
People speak their minds during a powerful event.
Not even the 90-degree heat could match the fire and passion of the nearly 3,000 people who gathered Saturday afternoon in Fairfax City’s Old Town Square to show that Black Lives Matter.
Fatal Crash in Springfield Investigated
Virginia State Police Trooper E. Lynch is investigating a fatal crash in Springfield. The crash occurred at 2:15 a.m. Sunday, June 7, on Interstate 395 (main lines) at the 2 mile marker.
Burke Residents Join Calls for Racial Justice
The area residents gathered along Burke Centre Parkway on Thursday, June 4, to join nationwide protests against racism and racial injustice.
A Call to Save North Fork of Accotink Creek
Local Audubon Naturalist Society does not like development slated for privately owned land.
Development in Fairfax
Hundreds Come Out to Fight Racism and Police Brutality
Mount Vernon was ground zero for the latest incident involving Fairfax County Police.
Protest march
Centreville: ‘As a Family, We Take a Stand for Justice’
Black Centreville residents respond to racism in America.
Jamie and Erik Gadley and their daughter, Kayla, a rising sophomore at Westfield High, live in Centreville’s Sully Station II community. And as a black family, the recent, unprovoked deaths of black people such as Breonna Taylor and George Floyd have both angered and saddened them.
Wootton High School: Zoom and Circumstance
MCPS Graduation week begins with Universal Virtual ceremony.
The Thomas S. Wootton High School Class of 2020 had two graduation ceremonies this week. Twice the usual number, doing double duty for the graduates who might be wishing for just one “normal” graduation.
Coping with Change and Anxiety
Potomac Community Village will present a Zoom video talk on Coping with Change and Anxiety in the Age of Covid-19 at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 17.
Potomac’s Week in Coronavirus
Montgomery County metrics still higher than rest of the state, and an election during a pandemic within a pandemic.
PANDEMIC WITHIN PANDEMIC: Racism will be declared a public health crisis, according to a Montgomery County Council resolution spearheaded by Councilmember Will Jawando and sponsored by the full Council.
‘All Moms Were Summoned’ in Cabin John
More than 200 gather to support Black Lives Matter.
The call-and-response was sometimes called by children: “Say his name.” “George Floyd” “Say his name.” “George Floyd.”
Wednesday, June 10
Protest in Nauck/Green Valley
Protest banners appeared mid-week obscuring the Nauck Community sign in Nauck/Green Valley, the historically African-American part of Arlington established in 1844.
Peaceful Demonstration June 2 in Arlington
An estimated 250 demonstrators convened in Clarendon Central Park on June 2, one among many protests in Arlington this week.
Arlington’s Week in Coronavirus
Coronavirus response funding – The Arlington Board will take action to accept $413,265 in federal CARES Act funding from the state. The funding would be used to expand services that provide home-delivered meals, in-home care services, respite care for caregivers and information, and referral to supportive services to Arlingtonians age 60 and older and their caregivers.
Opinion: Commentary: Monumental Changes Continuing
Finding the words to describe the period of history in which Virginia finds itself is challenging.
Opinion: Independent Progressive: Under the Cover of Covid
These are tough times to follow what’s happening in Reston. Under stay-at- home, no congregating Covid-19 protocols, it is nearly impossible for local media or anyone to see what’s going on. Meetings are virtual and only Zoom knows!
A Sea of Blue Seahawk Strong in Reston
SLHS graduates Class of 2020.
On what would have been Graduation Day, June 3, 2020, at Eagles Bank Arena, seniors at South Lake High School pulled up to the front of their school for a drive-thru pick up.
Herndon, Reston Communities Protest Against Racial Injustice and Police Brutality
Thousands take to local streets and sidewalks in solidarity.
"We need to take this moment and make it our moment. We need to use our breath for those who have no breath," said Rev. Dr. Debra W. Haffner of Unitarian Universalist Church in Reston.
Disproportionate Use of Force
African Americans are often targets of strong-arm tactics by Alexandria police.
Documents outlining use of force by the Alexandria Police Department show force is used against black males more than any other group. In the most recent report, which covers 2019, 54 percent of the instances of use of force was against African Americans. That’s significantly higher than the black population in Alexandria, which is 23 percent.
Vienna Police Highlights May 29 – June 4, 2020
The following summary contains various incidents of general interest as well as vehicular crashes handled by the Town of Vienna Police Department from May 29 – June 4, 2020.
Drive Through Diplomas: ‘Just Like Going to McDonald’s’
Area schools, students celebrate graduation differently this year.
When COVID-19 interrupted the school year nationwide, and forced large gatherings to be cancelled, schools, families, and graduating seniors wondered how they’d still be able to celebrate the milestone without a traditional ceremony.
Youth Group Provides Equipment to Local Hospitals
Quarantine in Virginia has seen many students taking the initiative to raise funds and contribute to frontline pandemic workers.
Celebrating Reopening in Great Falls
Great Falls food establishments, old and new, open under Phase One.
At the Village Centre in Great Falls near the corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road, The Old Brogue stood reopened for outdoor canopy dining on its courtyard and continued curbside pickup and delivery.
Great Falls Residents Question Proposed Grocery Store
More than 50 Great Falls residents participated in a virtual town hall meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2020.
Opinion: Commentary: Reflections on a ‘Bad Place’
Praying for a nation that will move from being ‘not racist’ to affirmatively becoming antiracist.
One week after George Floyd was executed in broad daylight on a busy city street over an alleged $20 dollar counterfeit bill, we crossed into South Dakota’s Badlands National Park.
Fairfax County’s Week in Coronavirus
Cornerstones Town Hall, contact tracing, contact tracing scams, moratorium on evictions for now, and more.
BACKLOGGED TESTS: Starting on June 9, the Virginia Department of Health’s COVID-19 data dashboard will reflect 13,000 additional tests that were backlogged. Over the next couple of days, this new information will be slowly added to the current data, which will result in an influx of results.
Tuesday, June 9
Opinion: Column: “The News of My Death...
…is greatly exaggerated." So said Mark Twain. So said W.C. Fields. And so said Kenny Lourie.
In Fairfax County, Adopt-A-Road is a Hit
County has highest participation in Virginia.
With everyone concentrating on social distancing these days, the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Adopt-A-Highway is a possible option to clean the roadsides, get some sun, and practice social distancing while doing a good deed.
Opinion: Commentary: ‘We Must Work to Remove Racist Policies’
The League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area stands with millions of Americans in grieving the senseless murder of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Sean Reed, and countless other Black lives at the hands of law enforcement officers.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Statement from the Mayors and Chairs of Northern Virginia
As the Mayors and Chairs of Northern Virginia, we raise our collective voices on behalf of the more than 2.5 million residents of our region to express our sorrow for the decades of injustices that have befallen the African American community in America.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Northern Virginia Houses of Worship Will be Open, But Not Their Buildings
The State of Virginia and Fairfax County have told us that we can reopen our houses of worship at fifty percent capacity. We will not be doing so at this time.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Northern Virginia Rotary Clubs Letter on Racism--
Signed by District Governors and 10 Area Clubs.
George Floyd’s needless and heartless death has set in motion a dramatic nationwide response that we refuse to ignore.
Call to Action from TJHSST Principal
I would like to simultaneously call the TJ community to action in three areas.
Summer Blooms
Heat tolerant flowers that add bursts of color to gardens and landscapes.
As spring flowers begin to wither under the heat and humidity of summer, the vibrant blooms that once graced yards and gardens begin to fade. It’s during this time that landscapers and gardeners rely on a bevy of color-rich flowering plants that are hearty enough to stand up to the relentless summer sun.
An Arlington Kitchen Gets a Facelift
From dark and dated to light and modern.
When an Arlington family grew tired of their home’s cramped, dark kitchen, they turned to interior designer Elena Eskandari to modernize and expand it, while creating a space for entertaining.
Fairfax County Police Department Officer Charged with Assault Against Community Member
Colonel Edwin C. Roessler Jr., Fairfax County Police Chief: ‘These acts are unacceptable.’
"The body-worn camera video I am releasing shows a Fairfax County police officer deploying force in violation of our use of force policies … They are criminal acts which violate our oath of office, and they ignore the sanctity of human life," said Colonel Edwin C. Roessler Jr., Fairfax County Police Chief, the day after one of his officers deployed an "electronic control weapon," multiple times on an African American male who did not appear to be a threat.
Friday, June 5
All I Need Is Aldi: A Kid-Friendly Treat to Cool Down This Summer
Lately, time has had a way of slowing down. The days have seemed longer at home, especially for those of us with kids that are out of school.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: On the Recent Death of Mr. George Floyd
I do not believe our country engages in systematic racism!
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Applauding Vetoes
As Virginia's Spring legislative session wound down Governor Northam vetoed three healthcare bills. What isn't clear about these bi-partisan bills intended to expand insurance access is what they really entail.
Hundreds Rally in Alexandria to End Racism
Peaceful demonstration held at police headquarters.
A group of more than 500 demonstrators gathered outside Police Headquarters June 2 as part of a vigil to “End White Silence in Alexandria” in the wake of the May 25 killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, while in police custody in Minneapolis.
Opinion: Commentary: Be Safe at Home
While we continue to spend the majority of our time at home, I wanted to highlight one of the major dangers that exist in and around our homes: poisons.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Close King Street from the Potomac River to the King Street Metro Station
As I write this, Alexandria's about to take a modest step toward re-opening. Our elected officials have been leaders in the rational approach to containing the deadly COVID-19 virus and protecting Alexandria's citizens and visitors.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: We Pledge to Prevent the Sprout of Racism in Alexandria
We, the undersigned, are members of the Alexandria Human Rights Commission, but we submit this letter in our own capacity as residents of this great city we call home.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: From Police Chief Michael Brown
Last week, I too watched a video that shocked me in many ways. Personally, and professionally, I was appalled at what I saw. I witnessed a homicide at the hands of a cop, and the victim of that homicide was Mr. George Floyd.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: We Cannot Wait to Win Over Hearts and Minds
I have been struggling to find words and honestly still can’t. The week has been draining both physically and emotionally on top of trying to figure out how to live in a pandemic.
Historic Moment in Alexandria
Controversial statue relocated to an undisclosed location.
For 131 years, the lone figure stood at the intersection of Washington and Prince streets in Old Town.
Opinion: Commentary: Harness Outrage to Battle Toward Justice
I begin by noting I am aware that words alone cannot rectify the problems our country is experiencing.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: A Moment to Act
I’m sure folks have seen the protests this weekend in response to George Floyd’s murder at the hands of police officers, and years of violence against the Black community.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: From the Bahá’ís of Alexandria
To Mayor Justin Wilson: Your May 29 letter takes a bold step in frankly acknowledging the pervasive culture of white supremacy that pollutes our nation and in sharing the collective despair that many are feeling.
Springfield High Schoolers Start a Coffee Business
First consumers: area high schoolers.
With many coffee shops closed or their business hours shortened during the COVID-19 pandemic, two high schoolers have fulfilled locals’ coffee cravings.
A Call to End ‘White Silence’
Demonstrators converge at Public Safety Headquarters in Fairfax.
After seven days of nationwide protests, escalating riots and looting by some in the fallout from the death of African-American George Floyd while being arrested by a white officer in Minneapolis, Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) Northern Virginia held protests at two northern Virginia police headquarters.
Fairfax City Helps Restaurants Serve Customers Outdoors
With Northern Virginia now in Phase I of reopening – and rapidly heading toward Phase II – the Fairfax City Council last week approved two emergency ordinances to help local restaurants serve customers outdoors.
‘We Didn’t Know it Would End that Fast’ in Centreville
Gate Post Estates holds a graduation parade.
Thanks to COVID-19, this year’s high-school seniors didn’t get to have their achievements and graduation recognized in a public way.
Thursday, June 4
Springfield Town Center Reopens
The center is using all precautions in the midst of the pandemic.
Springfield Town Center
Flores Perseveres as Pandemic Cancels Some Plans
Marissa Flores’ determination as wheelchair basketball competitor leads her to sports management, working with children.
Mount Vernon High School student
Outdoor Concert On a Mount Vernon Community Street
Barclay Brass ensemble hammers out tunes for the neighborhood.
outdoor concert
‘Kids Outside Will Get Full Force of the Sound’ in Westfields
Jumbo jets would fly just 950 feet above Westfields homes.
Like global warming, people may choose to ignore airport noise contours – but their effects will still happen, nonetheless.
Alexandria’s Week in Coronavirus
The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that the safest place to be is at home.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Justice for Bijan Ghaisar
I conducted my own 1 person vigil for Bijan on May 27 from 12:20 until 1:20.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Republican Primary for U.S. Senate Seat
Since there has been little, if any, local news coverage of the upcoming June 23 Republican primary for Virginia’s U.S. Senate race I am writing to prod you into informing your readers.
Overlooked Primary for U.S. Senate
Three Republicans on the ballot this month.
Don’t look now, but Virginia is in the closing days of a primary. You might not have heard about it because of the global pandemic and the economic crisis. But buried beneath all the headlines about police brutality and racial injustice, Republicans are about to decide which candidate they want to appear on the ballot this November against incumbent U.S. Sen. Mark Warner.
Appetite: 4 Ingredients for a Stellar Pandemic Picnic
A Friday-night picnic under the stars may look a little different in this age of social-distancing, but the weather waits for no pandemic, and the nights have turned warm and balmy.
Arlington’s Week in Coronavirus
DAY OF MOURNING: Arlington County will join other officials and faith leaders across the country for the day of mourning. The County will hold a moment of silence and lower the County flag at the government building to remember the 109 Arlingtonians — and the more than 100,000 people nationwide (101,711 as of Saturday, May 30) who have died from COVID-19.
Emily and Sarah to Celebrate Virtual Graduation in Arlington
Twins Emily and Sarah Roberts stand on their front porch with Hachi on the leash headed toward his favorite spot in the front yard. Emily and Sarah say they were still hoping for an in-person graduation even after the rest of the school year at Yorktown High School had been cancelled.
A Bear in Arlington
A young male bear ambled by a garbage can looking for breakfast on Wednesday, May 27.
Saturday Night Waiting for a Table in Arlington
Arlington’s favorite spots with rooftop bars or outdoor patios had lines on Saturday night.
Muslims Celebrate Ramadan at Home During Pandemic
It was hard not to be able to embrace friends and family after the 30 day fast.
Ramadan, the month-long fast that takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar year, is, after all, a time of sacrifice. For many who were under stay-at-home orders in Virginia, that spirit of sacrifice took on an added dimension.
Wednesday, June 3
Potomac Elementary: The Show Must Go On!
Students share diverse talents.
Every year, students at Potomac Elementary School have a chance to share their talents with the school community during the Potomac’s Got Talent show.
All Decked Out and Ready to Open in Potomac
Memorial Day passed, June arrived, school is “out,” it is time to open the pools.
Week 12: Inside Coronavirus at Virginia Hospital Center
“It’s safe to say that coronavirus cases in Arlington are starting to see some leveling off, but not that it is definitely going down,” according to Adrian Stanton, Vice President for Business Development and Community Relations at Virginia Hospital Center.
Virginia Swimmer Presumed Drowned
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Swift Water Rescue boats and crews spent several hours on the Potomac this morning of June 2 searching for a missing swimmer, presumed drowning victim after an incident on Sunday, May 31.
Glenstone Museum Opens Outdoors Only
Glenstone Museum will reopen as an outdoor-only experience in a limited capacity on June 4 on visitor days (Thursday-Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.).
Fatal Accident Involving Motorcycle on River Road
Montgomery County Department of Police are investigating a serious collision involving a motorcyclist that occurred along River Road in Bethesda.
Construction Worker Killed on Old Georgetown Road
A fatal collision involving a construction worker occurred last night in North Bethesda.
Potomac’s Week in Coronavirus
RULES AND REGULATIONS: Montgomery County has developed reopening guidelines for businesses as we move into Phase 1 on Monday, June. 1.
George Floyd on Our Minds in Montgomery County
Police use of force incidents in Montgomery County involve African Americans 55 percent of the time, even though they make up just 19.9 percent of the population.
While protests spread coast to coast, and local law enforcement condemn the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis, data show that police use of force locally targets African Americans disproportionately.
Opinion: Column: Night and Now Daze
That wasn't so bad. Approximately 29 hours in the hospital in a private room and all I had to do was drink as much water as possible and shower half a dozen times.
Let’s Get This Right: Mask Up NOVA
It’s Phase One and Executive Order 63 for Northern Virginia’s reopening.
On May 29, The Northern Virginia Regional Commission announced that it produced a Public Service Announcement emphasizing the importance of wearing a face mask in public indoor spaces.
Governor Northam Declares State of Emergency
Assistance to localities authorized.
In Northern Virginia, Fairfax County Police assisted in Manassas when demonstrations there “became violent as some of the protesters proceeded into Sudley Rd., stopping traffic, and throwing objects at passing motorists and officers,” according to Prince William Police.
When One Drink is No Longer Enough
Increase in alcohol consumption during COVID-19 worries some.
Just three months ago, her evening routine was simple. She made dinner for her 10- and 12-year old children, and after they’d taken showers and gone to bed, she settled onto the sofa in her family room with a book and a glass of wine.
Fairfax County’s Week in Coronavirus
Facemasks mandatory; outdoor seating in restaurants; retail stores start to open.
“Science shows that face coverings are an effective way to prevent transmission of the virus, but wearing them is also a sign of respect. This is about doing the right thing to protect the people around us and keep everyone safe,” said Gov. Ralph Northam.
Tuesday, June 2
Opinion: Commentary: Virus of Racial Injustice
The image of a man in a uniform pressing his knee down on the neck of a hand-cuffed black man while being protected by three other uniformed individuals is so revolting and repulsive that I cannot get it out of my mind.
One Artist Two Hashtags and VIRGINIA STRONG in Reston
Public Art Reston connects community.
It seemed right. In the first hours after dawn on the day Northern Virginia began to reopen, a masked artist knelt and chalked an image of the Virginia state bird and flower on the brick plaza in front of Mercury Fountain in Reston. Below, in vibrant blue block letters, he wrote VIRGINIA STRONG.
Great Falls Church Marks 130 Years of Service
The Smith Chapel Methodist Church congregation marked the 130th anniversary of the laying of its cornerstone on May 23, 1890 with celebratory wishes to the community.
Senator Favola Hosts Virtual Town Hall Centered on COVID-19
Panel of local elected officials weigh in.
Virginia Senator Barbara Favola (D-31) hosted a Virtual Zoom Town Hall Meeting with panelists, Del. Kathleen Murphy (D-34), Arlington County Board Chair Libby Garvey and Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust (D).
Area Girls Scouts Volunteering at Home
Girl Scouts from Vienna, Oakton, Reston and Alexandria have been volunteering tirelessly at home since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to help assemble components of reusable, eco-friendly menstrual pads for girls in low- and middle-income countries.
Vienna Police Highlights May 22 – May 28, 2020
The following summary contains various incidents of general interest as well as vehicular crashes handled by the Town of Vienna Police Department from May 22 – May 28, 2020.
Finding New Ways to Celebrate in Vienna and McLean
Area high school graduates miss the opportunity to say bye to school, friends.
The end of the school year in high school is filled with spirit weeks, prom, and for seniors, a graduation ceremony. So, when COVID-19 caused in-person classes to stop and postponed or cancelled events like prom and graduation, many students didn’t get the opportunity to finish out the year with the typical celebrations and traditions.
Monday, June 1
Departmental Progressive Club Making a Difference in Alexandria
Gift cards presented to Carpenter’s Shelter, ARHA.
Members of the Departmental Progressive Club joined forces to raise more than $1,600 to donate to Carpenter’s Shelter and the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority.
The Other Alexandria: Saluting One of Our Fallen Vietnam Veterans: Raymond Leroy Williams Sr.
In Washington, D.C. near the Lincoln Memorial is a black granite memorial erected for the Vietnam Soldiers who had died in action. On that wall, they listed over fifty individuals from Alexandria, including Private First Class Raymond Leroy Williams.
Looking for Lonely Seniors…
Senior Services of Alexandria’s “Friendly Visitor” Program
As we continue to stay at home and remain safe, feelings of loneliness and isolation might be setting in, especially for older adults who live alone or are confined to their living space in a residential facility.
George Floyd on Our Minds
While protests spread coast to coast, and local law enforcement condemn the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis, data show that police use of force locally targets African Americans disproportionately.
Picture This: Your ‘Working-From-Home’ Pet
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria’s annual calendar contest launches June 1.
t’s been an unforgettable year for Abby, a six-year-old cattle dog/coonhound mix adopted in 2014 from the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA).