Thursday, October 26
Storck Shows Off Mount Vernon Via the Bicycle
Tour de Mount Vernon riders greeted with sunshine and blue skies.
Bike Ride
Wednesday, October 25
Avoid Collisions with Deer (& Bear)
Avoid Collisions with Deer (& Bear)
2023 Walk to End Alzheimer's
Northern Virginia’s Alzheimer's Association provides support, help, research and more.
Northern Virginia’s Alzheimer's Association provides support, help, research and more.
Kathy Smith, Incumbent, for Sully Supervisor
Candidate Connection
Keith Elliott, Challenger, for Sully Supervisor
Candidate Connection
2023 Lords and Ladies Fairfax Celebrated
The 2023 Salute to Lord and Lady was held at the Fairfax County Government Center on Tuesday, Oct. 3.
My Aunt Has Dementia
Caregiving Corner
Different Kind of Sticker Shock
News Briefs
Long-time Resident Publishes First Book
Ann Allman and her husband, Frank Gulino, have lived in our area for forty years.
Supervisor Candidates at Chamber Breakfast
Discuss economic development, crime, affordable housing.
Local Supervisor candidates gathered at the October Business Breakfast, hosted by the Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce to discuss their platform and issues facing Fairfax County.
What is on the ballot?
The results of this election will determine the direction Virginia takes on many crucial issues, including responsible fiscal management, expanding workers' rights, sustainable transportation, abortion access, energy policy, and excellence in education.
District Members, Board of Supervisors
Braddock, Franconia, Mount Vernon, Providence & Springfield Districts
The Nov. 7 election includes the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Nine members are elected by voters in local districts to serve four-year terms. Twenty-one district candidates are in the race, with seven incumbents.
Member School Board by District
In November, Fairfax County voters will choose 12 school board members to serve four-year terms starting Jan. 1, 2024. Nineteen candidates are running for the nine magisterial district seats. There are also three at-large seats in the November election.
Northern Virginia Home Sales Drop as Prices Rise
Interest Rates Impact Housing Market Regionally and Nationally
Home sales slid more in Northern Virginia than around the nation in September while prices jumped more regionally, reported the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors (NVAR). High mortgage rates contributed to sales dropping 18.2% in September in Northern Virginia while nationally sales declined 15.4%.
Vienna Town Council
Seven candidates are running for six seats on the Vienna Town Council. Early voting is underway, and final Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023. Three of the seven candidates are incumbents: Chuck Anderson, Howard J. Springsteen and Ray Brill. Mayor Linda Colbert is running unopposed. All candidates run as Independents.
Battle of the Unbeatens
South Lakes carries on at 8-0
The South Lakes Seahawks and Madison Warhawks faced off on Friday, Oct. 20 for a battle of unbeatens. South Lakes was averaging 50 points a game and Madison averaging 30. But Friday night would be far lower scoring.
District Members, Board of Supervisors
Dranesville, Hunter Mill, Providence & Sully Districts
The Nov. 7 election includes the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Nine members are elected by voters in local districts to serve four-year terms. Twenty-one district candidates are in the race, with seven incumbents.
Speaker of the House
Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution of the United States provides that the House of Representatives is to choose a presiding officer to be known as the Speaker of the House. Such a position became necessary as the Founding Fathers looked for a way to have checks and balances among the branches of government since they had rejected a parliamentary form of government that would have had a prime minister serving as leader in both the executive and legislative branches at the same time.
‘Thriving Together’
NAACP 90th anniversary Freedom Fund Gala.
“Every honoree is teaching us something about us as a people and about our community.” — Darrlynn S. Franklin, NAACP Alexandria branch president
Member School Board by District
Dranesville, Hunter Mill, Mason, Providence & Sully districts
In November, Fairfax County voters will choose 12 school board members to serve four-year terms starting Jan. 1, 2024. Nineteen candidates are running for the nine magisterial district seats. There are also three at-large seats in the November election.
Turkey Trot Set for Nov. 12
5k route open to all abilities.
“The Rotary Club of Tysons strives to make a positive difference in the Tysons area through the Rotary motto ‘Service Above Self.’” —
American Horticultural Society Gala Raises $350,000
Celebrating 50 Years at River Farm.
Bouquets of vibrant flowers outshined the grey clouds and rain at the American Horticultural Society’s annual Gala on Sept. 23.
Pedestrian Killed In Reston Crash
A 37-year-old man was pronounced deceased following a pedestrian crash near the intersection of Baron Cameron Avenue and Fountain Drive in Reston on Monday evening, Oct. 23.
Holiday Decorating Contest Applications
Town of Vienna residents and businesses are encouraged to compete in this year’s “Shine Bright, Vienna” holiday decorating contest. Applications for the 2024 contest are now available online at www.viennava.gov/holiday or at the Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St., SE.
Food Needed for Hungry Arlingtonians
Help ‘Scouting for Food’
The Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) is pleased to partner with the Chain Bridge District of the National Capital Area Council of Boy Scouts for the 2023 Scouting for Food food drive campaign. This annual event aims to not only collect essential food donations but also raise awareness of the issue of food insecurity.
Candidates Debate in Springfield District Supervisor Race
Incumbent Pat Herrity (R); Corazon Foley, Independent Green; Albert Vega (D), address voter questions
Candidates running to represent the Springfield District on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors met to debate questions posed by residents on Monday evening, Oct. 23.
Fairfax City Examines Its Housing Supply and Types
Smaller, more accessible and affordable homes are needed.
“A lot of new units are approaching and sometimes surpassing the million-dollar price tag.” — Aaron Finley, TPMA
Small-Business Incubator Coming to Fairfax City
Wander In will guide, support and help artisans thrive.
A new, retail incubator store is coming to Old Town Fairfax City. Called Wander In, it’ll be in Fairfax Plaza between Mackenzie’s Tunes & Tonics and The Wine House, at 3950 University Drive, Suite 211.
Drug Take-Back Day is this Saturday
News Briefs
District Members, Board of Supervisors
Braddock, Franconia, Mount Vernon, Providence & Springfield Districts
The Nov. 7 election includes the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Nine members are elected by voters in local districts to serve four-year terms. Twenty-one district candidates are in the race, with seven incumbents.
Member School Board by District
Franconia, Mount Vernon Districts
In November, Fairfax County voters will choose 12 school board members to serve four-year terms starting Jan. 1, 2024. Nineteen candidates are running for the nine magisterial district seats. There are also three at-large seats in the November election. Virginia's School board elections are nonpartisan, meaning that party affiliations can not appear on the ballots for school board candidates. Nevertheless, parties may publicly endorse their candidates.
Painter Sees World through Prismatic Lens of Autism
Nepenthe Gallery will feature the artwork of Lee Jaworek, at their weekly ART+WINE+CHEESE event on Thursday, Nov. 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Zoned Out
City Council to determine future of single-family housing in Alexandria.
"We need to apply strict scrutiny on the zoning provisions we have and ensure that they do not have a disparate impact, particularly to ensure that some of the provisions are not segregating our communities." — Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson
Spooky Science
Mad Science Expo inspires STEAM learning.
Hundreds of future astronauts, scientists, mathematicians and engineers turned out Oct. 21 for the 8th annual Spooky Mad Science Expo, held for the first time at Armistead Boothe Park.
Pretty in Pink
Inaugural gala raises $60k for National Breast Center Foundation.
Breast cancer survivors were among the attendees who turned out Oct. 20 for the inaugural ALX Pink Gala, held at and sponsored by ALX Community, raising $60,000 for the National Breast Center Foundation.
Pride of Baltimore
THE SCHOONER PRIDE OF BALTIMORE II, a replica of the 1812 ship Pride of Baltimore, paid a three-day visit to Alexandria Oct. 20-22.
Make a Plan to Vote Early; Or Vote Nov. 7
The City of Alexandria residents have early voting options for the Nov. 7 General Election. All registered voters in Virginia are eligible to vote by mail or in person.
Guest House: Largest Graduating Class in Its History
Friends of Guest House will graduate a group of 26 graduates, its largest class in history. The formerly incarcerated women have successfully completed their transformative one-year residential and after-care program. The event will take place on Oct. 28, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Alexandria.
It’s Alive!
Fiendish fun in LTA’s Young Frankenstein; special performance set for Oct. 31.
The comedic genius of Mel Brooks comes to life in the Little Theatre of Alexandria’s “Young Frankenstein,” the musical version of the horror movie parody of the same name that first debuted in 1974.
Thursday, October 19
Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, Nov. 11-18
Hunger and homelessness growing in Fairfax County
Hunger and homelessness growing in Fairfax County
Inova Cares Clinic for Families Opens in Mount Vernon
Inova Cares Clinic for Families Opens in Mount Vernon
News Briefs in Alexandria and Mount Vernon
News Briefs
Appropriations Committee Meeting News
Revenue is exceeding predictions; will there be a recession?
Finances
Wednesday, October 18
Join the Annual K9 Krawl 5K
Roundups
Officer of the Quarter: PFC Avery Brunk
PFC Avery Brunk is the Sully District Police Station’s Officer of the Quarter for April, May and June.
GMU Space Day is Oct. 22
Roundups
APD New Leadership
The City of Alexandria’s Police Department (APD) is set to welcome Assistant Chiefs Raul Pedroso and Tina Laguna, and Communications Manager Tracy Walker.
Virginia and Its Regions
As a native Virginian growing up in the Valley region, I can still remember learning about the other geographic regions of the Commonwealth. While much of the emphasis on the differences among the regions was geographic and natural, the differences I have come to know are much broader and deeper than grade school students could grasp.
Additional Affordable Housing Funding for Veterans
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) is receiving more affordable housing funding specifically for veterans according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Community Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
McLean Project for the Arts to Host (Not) Strictly Painting
Events: Oct. 19 Artist Talk; Oct. 25 Tea & Talk
McLean Project for the Arts to Host (Not) Strictly Painting
Events: Oct. 19 Artist Talk; Oct. 25 Tea & Talk
Two Pastors, Musical Group Receive Awards
Centreville Day Committee fetes Hatcher, Johnson, VaDeatles.
Although rain forced the cancellation of Centreville Day last Saturday, Oct. 14, the awards ceremony went forward – just indoors, inside St. John’s Episcopal Church in Centreville’s Historic District.
Great Falls Studio Free Art Tour This Weekend
Driving tour to artist studios open to the public.
The Great Falls Studio Tour is celebrating its 20th anniversary. This coming weekend, 42 artists will take part in the free and open-to-the-public tour happening from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20, through Sunday, Oct. 22.
Vienna Fall Native Tree Giveaway
Stop by the Vienna Community Center on Saturday, Oct. 28
Herndon High School Homecoming 2023
Homecoming week: bonfire, parade, dance and Hornets beat Highlanders.
It's the fall season, and the annual high school homecoming tradition is in full swing across Fairfax County and the rest of the country. For some of this year's Herndon High School Hornets, “HOCO” (homecoming) created memories that will last a lifetime.
$100 Million in Infrastructure Funds for VRE
The Federal Railroad Administration announced recently that it will advance more than $1.4 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for 70 rail improvement projects in 35 states and Washington, D.C. The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority will receive up to $100 million to design and build the Franconia-Springfield Bypass, a critical bridge that will alleviate congestion on one of busiest railways in Virginia.
McLean Pet Fest a Hit
McLean Community Center pulls off another family-friendly event.
On Sunday, Oct. 15, leashed furry friends took their humans to the McLean Pet Fest, hosted by the McLean Community Center.
Roll Up Your Sleeves- — Inova Needs Blood
McLean Volunteer Fire hosts blood drive this Friday
Inova Blood Services made an urgent request for blood type B on its Facebook page last week.
A Place Where People Can Get a Fresh Start
Two former Lamb Center guests share their stories.
The Lamb Center is a place where lives are changed, and people have an opportunity to make a fresh start. And during this nonprofit’s recent banquet, two of its former guests, Padma and Jesse, shared their stories with those attending.
Popular Trail Segment To Close for Infrastructure Work
Users of a popular section of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail in the Pohick Stream Valley are noticing tree markings and other activity not normal to the quiet, beautiful and shady trail which runs along the rocky stream. What is the purpose of the flagging tape and numbered discs tagging the trees along a long stretch of the trail?
Challengers Line Up for Mount Vernon Supervisor’s Race
Supervisor Storck faces a Republican and Independent candidates
In the Mount Vernon District there is a main artery called Richmond Highway which caters to a majority of the population, businesses and government; the road can illustrate the supervisor’s role, pulled in many directions.
Potomac Home Sales: September, 2023
In September, 2023, 24 Potomac homes sold between $2,949,000-$750,000.
Potomac Home Sales: September, 2023
Newington Group Highlights the Need for a Sidewalk
Elected officials come out to see the need firsthand.
Newington sidewalk
Concrete Remnants Go Unexplained in Huntley Meadows Park
Just off the path, these appear to be part of an earlier structure.
Huntley Meadows
Rainy-Day Fun at Fairfax Fall Festival
Rainy-Day Fun at Fairfax Fall Festival
Laurel Hill Park Raises Osprey Platform
Volunteers and park maintenance crew team up in effort
Osprey Nest
Flourishing After 55 in Arlington
After 55
Project Community Connect
Bridging the gap for Virginia families working hard, but unable to afford basics.
Finances
Bradberry Celebrates with National Recognition
Arlington student honored for outstanding academics by The College Board.
Award
Let Them Eat Pie
Wendy MacCallum and Heather Sheire find a winning formula at Livin’ the Pie Life.
Pie
People of the Potomac: Archaeology of Riverbend Park
People of the Potomac: Archaeology of Riverbend Park
Civil War Show
Civil War Show
Fired Fairfax Officer Indicted By a Special Grand Jury
Feb. 22 fatal officer-shooting incident casts a shadow over county’s lack of foot pursuit policy and questions over delays in ICAT training.
Shooting
Halloween Rides by SoberRide
Halloween Rides by SoberRide
Madison Basketball Coach Charged with Embezzlement
Madison Basketball Coach Charged with Embezzlement
Sunday, October 15
Thursday, October 12
Meet the Legends
Reception to honor local legends to be held Oct. 18.
Photos by Steven Halperson/Tisara Studio
Mount Vernon Auto Repair Reduced to Rubble in Hybla Valley
Leveling closed businesses is part of the modernization process in Mount Vernon.
Car business torn down
Leslie Lautenslager: ‘My Time with General Colin Powell’
Local author tells international stories of her work alongside General Colin Powell.
Local Author
Wednesday, October 11
Centreville Day is Saturday, Oct. 14
The 31st annual Centreville Day is Saturday, Oct. 14.
Undefeated, Madison Beats Westfield
For the Madison Warhawks it was another game where they just don't quit.
Clerk of Court
Candidate Connection: Two candidates are on the ballot for Clerk of Court; vote for one.
Clerk of Court
Candidate Connection: Two candidates are on the ballot for Clerk of Court; vote for one.
Visionaries of Equity and Justice Honored at CIF Banquet
Founders Alice and Jerry Foltz receive Visionary Award.
“This award … is a celebration of the power of human imagination, dedication and the relentless pursuit of a better future.” — Chairman Jeff McKay
Cirque du Soleil’s ECHO Comes to Town
It’s not your grandfather’s circus
There are no elephants or lion tamers. This is not your grandfather’s old-style American circus. While there are acrobats, a contortionist, high-wire acts, and clowns, the performances are woven together, choreographed as a story; creating an entertainment more like a high-flying drama than circuses of the past.
Early Education Pays Off
Of the many educational programs that have been funded by all levels of government and the private sector, none have had as many positive, continuing impacts on participants as expenditures on early childhood education. There is a huge body of research proving the point.
Coping with Climate Change Takes Everyone
“This is not a doom and gloom conference,” Supervisor James Walkinshaw announced in opening his first annual Climate Action Conference at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Sept. 30 to an audience of around 250.
Welcoming Fall
Harvest Festival at Cabin John Village brings together families, farmers, artisans and a taste of autumn
Chilly temperatures and sunshine beaming from a cloudless blue sky made the backdrop for the Harvest Festival at Cabin John Village.
Police Collect Essentials for Unsheltered People
The Arlington County Police Department is collecting needed essentials for unsheltered individuals in our community.
Town Meeting on Southside ‘Express Lanes’
The Virginia Department of Transportation is currently studying the feasibility of extending existing High Occupancy Toll (HOT) Lanes from the Mixing Bowl over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and into Maryland.
Pedestrian Killed by Hit and Run Driver in Woodlawn
Detectives from Fairfax County Police Crash Reconstruction Unit continue to investigate a hit-and-run crash that killed a man in Woodlawn, Friday night, Oct. 6.
Fairfax Fall Festival: Food, Crafts, Music
47th annual celebration is Saturday, Oct. 14.
Fall Festival
VSP Seek Info on Man Lying along 495 at Braddock Rd.
Gunshot victim
Grocery Store Switch-a-Roo in Process at Central Springfield
New Whole Foods opens to much fanfare.
Whole Foods
Flourishing After 55 in Arlington
After 55
’VOTE!’ Say the Little Blue Rocks
Popping up all over Arlington, blue rocks remind Virginians to vote every year, but this election is not like others.
Blue Rocks
Fairfax County NAACP Condemns Chief Davis’s Action
Chief rejects recommendations and measures to save lives.
NAACP
Police Challenge Some Professional Recommendations
Chief gives status implementation to supervisors.
Police
Candidate Connection: Candidates for Sheriff, Fairfax County, City of Fairfax
Candidates for Sheriff, Fairfax County, City of Fairfax
Election
Candidate Connection: School Board At Large
Three open seats, zero incumbents, nine challengers
School Board
Victims Targeted After Withdrawing Funds
Money stolen
Thursday, October 5
‘No Judgment, Just Love’ at Chris Atwood Foundation
Substance-use recovery center opens in Fairfax City.
Recovery center
Place of Support, Hope, Love and Opportunity
Cameron’s Coffee & Chocolates celebrates 10 years.
Chocolates
Wednesday, October 4
GW Memorial Parkway Examined in Road Diet Study
Changes to travel lanes, intersections and crosswalks explored.
Parkway study
No Gambling Casino for Reston
Some news that is now nearly a year old got renewed attention recently causing many people in our community to become very concerned.
Fall is Here, A Casino Too!
Yes, a casino! In Reston!? It is hard for me to imagine a worse idea.
Fairfax County NAACP Condemns Chief Davis’s Action
Chief rejects recommendations and measures to save lives.
Fairfax County police chased and killed Timothy Johnson during a foot pursuit seven months ago; he was suspected of stealing sunglasses. Community leaders, Fairfax NAACP, ACLU People Power, and faith leaders say Fairfax County must prioritize police reform before another death.
Fun and Festivities for the Whole Community
31st annual Centreville Day is Saturday, Oct. 14.
Live music, a colorful parade, children’s activities and fun galore on an early fall day – all that and more are in store at the 31st annual Centreville Day. It’s set for Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., in Historic Centreville Park. The free event will be held at 5714 Mount Gilead Road (off Braddock Road, across Route 29 from the IHOP).
Police Challenge Some Professional Recommendations
Chief gives status implementation to supervisors.
Police policies, training, and procedures in 2023 are changing at a national level in terms of de-escalation tactics, appropriate use of force, foot pursuit policies, shooting at vehicles, and approaching people in mental health crises, to mention a few.
End of Hunger Month
But not the end of Hunger in Arlington
It is the end of Hunger Month but not the end of hunger or of Arlington Food Assistance (AFAC) events highlighting the need for food assistance.
Two Suspects Arrested Within 72 Hours of Shooting
Detectives from FCPD Major Crimes Bureau Armed Robbery and Contact Shooting squad have arrested two suspects in a shooting that left one adult man injured in Centreville.
New Lanes Opening on Route 28
Roundups
On or about Monday, Oct. 9, (weather depending), drivers will see new traffic patterns along Route 28 northbound and southbound between the Fairfax County/Prince William County line and Old Centreville Road in Centreville.
Inaugural Health and Wellness Fair Held in Great Falls
Speakers share key talking points.
The Great Falls Grange Foundation hosted the Inaugural Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 16.
Interview with Author Daniel Stuart Olmes
Behind the writing process and life’s “aha” moments.
Daniel Stuart Olmes of Fairfax County wrote and narrates "Memoirs of an Ordinary Guy: The Everyday Experiences That Changed My Life."
Reduced Fee Schedule Comes to Community Center
Collaborative effort by Cornerstones’ Opportunity Neighborhood influenced system gap remediation.
The Town of Herndon Parks and Recreation Department offers a newly approved lower fee entry for admission to the community center to residents in lower income brackets.
Suspect in Chantilly Sex Crimes Acquitted
Prosecution’s case against Dinh disintegrates at preliminary hearing.
Jailed and charged with sexual battery and abduction with intent to defile, Hien The Dinh, 20, sat through his entire preliminary hearing, Sept. 18, in handcuffs. That’s because Fairfax County General District Court bailiffs considered him a flight risk.
Military Appreciation Monday
Mark you calendars for the Oct. 16 Military Appreciation Monday dinner supporting the organization Stop Soldier Suicide.
Capital Art and Craft Festival, Oct. 13-15, 2023
More than 200 artists from throughout the US will be at the Dulles Expo Center.
Two 17 Year Olds Arrested in Kingstowne Shooting
Detectives from the Major Crimes Bureau, Criminal Investigations Division arrested two seventeen-year-olds in a recent shooting in the Kingstowne Shopping Center.
Potomac Day Is Saturday, Oct. 21
Potomac Day is a gift from the Potomac Chamber of Commerce to the community.
Potomac Day
Taste of Bethesda Is Saturday Oct. 7
Taste of Bethesda Is Saturday Oct. 7
Flourishing After 55 in Arlington
After 55
ART Offers Free Fares for Fall
Free Rides
Arlington’s Ballston Wetland Opens
No beavers, but green and speckled frogs plus trash seen
Arlington Wetlands
Sidewalk Spots and Parking Spots
Sidewalks get “Spot treatment” in Country Club Hills, car data collected from parking spots
Cars in Arlington
