Wednesday, February 28
Eagle Scouts Soar
ASBC Troop 133 prepares cold weather kits for people experiencing homelessness.
Scouts
Senior Living: Helping Seniors Age Safely and Successfully
Home for Life 2024 Expo is slated for April 12.
Senior living
FAIRFAX COUNTY SENIOR CENTERS
SENIOR LIVING
Local Couple Feared Dead in Yacht Hijacking
Former Del Ray residents Brandel, Hendry missing in Caribbean.
“Kathy and Ralph were just now beginning to talk about coming in to land again since Kathy just had a grandson.” — Donna Anderson
Bills to the Governor
Governor can sign, veto, amend or take no action on bills that reach his desk. Read on to see what happens next in each case.
The governor has provided little in the way of a preview of what legislative actions he may take, including whether he will sign, amend, or veto bills that would increase the minimum wage and better protect communities from gun violence.
Acrobatic Avians Are Active Now
Woodcocks choose forests, forest edges, shrubby areas near fields and wet meadows for their mating sites.
Bitter Pill in Fentanyl Response
Should severe penalties or drug education/treatment prevail?
Virginia’s General Assembly, which convened on Jan. 10, for a 60-day ‘long session’, is considering several fentanyl related bills to address the significant rise in synthetic opioid overdose deaths among Virginians. Fentanyl is now Virginia’s deadliest killer.
St. Patrick’s Day SoberRide
A local nonprofit organization will sponsor free safe rides to would-be drunk drivers throughout the Washington-metropolitan area during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
250 Years of Revolutionary History
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, I wanted to highlight another anniversary in Virginia’s revolutionary history.
Mount Vernon Celebrates 18th Century Style
George Washington honored with food and a look back in history
Not many could have a 297th birthday and have hundreds show up at the house to celebrate. President George Washington is one of those few, still remembered and admired, more than two hundred years after his death in December 1799 at age 67. His restored estate at Mount Vernon again hosted an event in celebration of surveyor, military man, army general, statesman, first United States President, and farmer, and provided celebrants with a view back into his life and times.
Living Legend Carolyn Lewis
Educator improving the lives of others.
Carolyn Lewis has seen Project Discovery Alexandria grow to an organization with 20 chapters in seven states providing guidance to students pursuing higher education.
Annual Gala and Silent Auction
The 2024 Senior Services of Alexandria Annual Gala and Silent Auction is Saturday, March 16 from 6-10 p.m. at The Westin Alexandria Old Town
Is This Acceptable?
Letters
Bridging the Gap
CCNA hosts community leaders to address health, education inequities.
“As the community celebrates Black History Month, one of the challenges that we don’t often discuss is mental wellbeing.” — Rawle Andrews Jr.
School Board Approves $3.8 Billion Budget
Mateo Dunne proposal not to increase pay for top division leadership rejected by Board; Supervisors will influence budget.
On Thursday, Feb. 22, the twelve-member Fairfax County School Board approved the Fiscal Year 2025 Advertised Budget 11–0 with one abstention.
McLean Central Park Construction Will Run Through 2024
McLean Central Park Construction Will Run Through 2024
Raising Funds for Children’s and Teens’ Fine Arts
Arts of Great Falls produces Monet’s garden-inspired gala
Art
Inova Blood Drive, March 8, in Fairfax
Inova Blood Drive, March 8, in Fairfax
Fulfilling a Long-Ago Promise ‘Unevenly Applied’
Fairfax City’s VMBDA helps minority businesses succeed.
Minority Busin
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Mourn Loudoun County Firefighter Killed in Explosion
NIOSH, Federal Investigation Underway
Firefighter
Fed Up: Fairfax Connector Workers on Strike
Union cites unfair labor practices and Transdev’s ‘slow-walking the talks.’
Bus Strike
A New View of the Landfill
Grassland at the I95 landfill provides habitat for ground-nesting birds and other wildlife.
Landfill
Learn about Fairfax County Police Department
Learn about Fairfax County Police Department
Trident Systems Expanding its Chantilly Operation
It will invest $3.7 million to produce space electronic systems.
Trident Systems
Tuesday, February 27
“Flourishing After 55” in Arlington
After 55
‘It Was a Labor of Love’ in Arlington
Pierogi burgers spur donations to World Central Kitchen for work in Ukraine.
World kitchen
Just Kidding: 95 Baby Goats and Counting
Two farmers in Mercersburg bring a little good nature to Westover
The Farmers in the Dale
County Executive Presents FY 2025 Advertised Budget
Tax increase proposed; jobs cut; state underfunds schools; supervisors will make changes.
Budget
Senior Living: Six in 10 People with Dementia Will Wander
Alzheimer’s Association offer tips to prepare for this emergency situation
Dementia
Friday, February 23
Thursday, February 22
Mary Washington’s Grave Location a Mystery
A President’s Day investigation involves ground penetrating radar technology.
Grave detecting device
Wednesday, February 21
Car Seat Inspections on Feb. 29
Roundups
Donate Supplies to The Lamb Center
The Lamb Center, a nonprofit, daytime drop-in center for the homeless, needs the following supplies
Potomac Home Sales: January, 2024
In January, 2024, 43 Potomac homes sold between $3,375,000-$675,000.
In January, 2024, 43 Potomac homes sold between $3,375,000-$675,000.
FACETS’ Hypothermia Program Experiences Increase in Clients
With growing need and colder weather, seasonal shelter connects guests with services through April 1.
FACETS began its annual Hypothermia Prevention and Response Program in late November and has experienced an increase in demand with cold weather and local need pushing up the numbers of people seeking shelter.
A Culinary Tour of the World in Fairfax City
Winter Restaurant Week is Feb. 26-March 3.
It’s always a good time to visit Fairfax City – but especially during Restaurant Week. That’s when both locals and visitors get a chance to enjoy delicious meals at the City’s restaurants for lower-than-normal prices.
Lorton Book Event Draws Large Crowd
40,000 books available to open the world for all.
The Lorton Community Center and Library know that reading opens the world.Their February 10th book drive and family literacy fair aimed to be sure that area families and educators had a means to open that global door to knowledge, learning, and adventure, for all.
Teen Dies in Lorton Crash
A 19-year-old died from injuries after running into the back a roll back dumpster truck yesterday morning on Richmond Highway at Giles Run Road in Lorton.
Stage Set for Construction at Springfield Town Center
Stage Set for Construction at Springfield Town Center
NOVA PRIME Physical Therapy Opens in Chantilly
Filling a gap in women’s health care here.
Healthcare
‘Shining Example’ of Commitment to Duty in Centreville
PFC Jacob Juranek is Sully Police Officer of the Year.
Officer of the year
Preschool Mail Carriers Deliver Valentines
FCPS teacher broadens students' learning and social skills through play.
Valentines
AI & Us
Pop-up Art Exhibit Explores the Impact of Artificial Intelligence
Pop-up Art Exhibit Explores the Impact of Artificial Intelligence
“Flourishing After 55” in Arlington
After 55
Tuesday, February 20
First Free Pop Up Shop To Become Annual Event
Almost 2,000 pieces of clothing found new homes (instead of the landfill).
Pop Up
Metro Funding: Va. Should Contribute $180 Million
Smart Growth
House of Delegates Considering SB 280, Medical Aid in Dying
Death with dignity bill passed in Virginia Senate.
Death with Dignity
DOJ Releases Uvalde Review in mid-January
Where are comments by Fairfax County and Virginia on recommendations?
Review
Thursday, February 15
Club Studio Tysons Corner Preview Center is Now Open!
sponsored
Club Studio is a cutting-edge fitness experience that brings state-of-the-art amenities and boutique fitness classes together in one gym. The new 48,000 square foot club in Vienna features five innovative boutique fitness studios that were carefully curated to create a unique experience, along with recovery services (including cryotherapy), plenty of free weights, strength and cardio areas, functional training area, locker rooms and more.
Wednesday, February 14
Alexandria Fentanyl and Gun Trafficker Sentenced to 15 Years
Suspect sentanced
Local Rock Band’s Original Song up for Award
With a handful of original songs and a show every weekend, the Mojo Aces have an ace in the hole this time around.
local band
Mount Vernon Town Hall Meeting Celebrates 37 Years
Supervisor Storck leads a tour from above in a virtual helicopter.
Mount Vernon town hall
City of Fairfax Mourns its Former Mayor
John Mason: ‘Gifted leader’ and champion of the arts.
Mayor dies
Grad Speaker Shares Her Personal Challenges
Calls Mountain View ‘a safe environment where I could thrive.’
Mountain View ‘a safe environment
“Flourishing After 55”
Office of 55+ Programs
Arlington Police Arrest Crystal City Rape Suspect
Arlington News Briefs
New Race and Social Equity Officer
Alexandria News Briefs
Senate Version of Potomac Yard Arena Proposal Hits a Speedbump — or Roadblock?
Last November, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced his proposal to relocate the Washington Wizards NBA team and the Washington Capitals NHL team from DC across the river to a $2 billion arena to be built in the City of Alexandria’s Potomac Yard neighborhood.
Crossover Report
Concerns on transit infrastructure, labor agreements and the impact on our greater metro area lead to “no” vote on the Arena bill.
We have officially reached Crossover in the 2024 General Assembly session! Now, we in the House will turn our attention to the bills that the Senate has sent to us to consider.
Mason Is Praised for Regional Leadership
Friends, colleagues recall his governance and consensus-building.
Besides all he did for the City of Fairfax, former Mayor John Mason also played an important part in the county and region.
Snapshot of John Mason’s Life and Legacy
Born Jan. 27, 1935, in Springfield, Mass., John Mason had a distinguished, 20-year career in the U.S. Army before retiring as a colonel in 1976.
Celebrating Black History Month in the Mount Vernon District
History is all around us in Fairfax County, and especially when you live here in the Mount Vernon District!
Investing in Families with Solutions that Work
Fifty-percent of Americans have less than $400 in their bank accounts, putting them one emergency expense from a devastating financial crisis. In Alexandria and south Arlington, more than 30% of families are unable to cover basic needs.
Pohick Church, Still Thriving after 250 Years
“As we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our church home, let us admire the witness of our spiritual ancestors – not because they are pillars of morality and perfection -- but precisely because they are not. Because they answered the call anyway and entered into a lifetime process of transformation that formed them into true leaders.” — The Very Rev. Dr. Lynn Ronaldi, Rector
Open Letter to Ted Leonsis from Andrew Macdonald
Potomac Yard not suitable for Arena.
We want to make sure that there is no misunderstanding that many Alexandrians are angry about the prospect of Virginia taxpayers having to pay to build your sports arena at Potomac Yard.
African American Heritage Trail
Ribbon cutting officially opens South Route.
“This is another thoughtful way to engage everyone who comes to Alexandria.” — U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-8)
Monumental First Step
Va. House passes bill to advance Potomac Yard entertainment complex; local opposition continues.
“Today’s vote is an important milestone in the efforts to bring a sports and entertainment district to Potomac Yard.” — Mayor Justin Wilson
Mountain View High Holds Winter Graduation
Principal Catherine Stone gives advice to the students.
Grads running wild
J.D. Spain Launches Campaign for Arlington County Board
15 year resident, activist and veteran wants a seat at the table
Arlington County Board
Another Global Headquarters for Arlington
Another Global Headquarters for Arlington
Justice Sunday
On First Baptist Church of Vienna’s 8th Annual Legislative and Justice Sunday, elected officials update the status of bills and review past actions.
Church
Thursday, February 8
‘You Set the Standard High’
Circuit Court judge Clark retires after 12 years on the bench.
Judge retires
Local Film Takes a Step Forward in the Streaming World
”There is a Monster,” premiered on Apple TV and Prime Video January 30
Local movie now streaming
Wednesday, February 7
Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Endorses Planned Sports and Entertainment District in Potomac Yard
Sports arena
Arlington News Briefs
Wrap up of Saturday, Jan. 20, 2023 – Regular County Board Meeting
Arlington Innovation Fund Launches Inaugural Startup Grantees
Arlington Economic Development (AED) announced the selection of five Arlington-based startups as recipients of Catalyst Grants from the Arlington Innovation Fund (AIF).
Help Stuff the Bus for Britepaths
News Briefs
Suspect in Car Break Ins Arrested
Officers from the Franconia District Station arrested a man suspected of breaking into multiple cars in Lorton.
Kids Open New Children’s Space at Cub Run Rec Center
More than a dozen eager kids, joined by their excited parents, celebrated the opening of a brand-new space at Cub Run Rec Center especially for them.
USDA Now Accepting Applications for Veterinary Services Grant Opportunities in Designated Areas of Virginia
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has nominated five veterinary services shortage areas in the Commonwealth that have a need for veterinarians practicing food supply veterinary medicine.
Commercial Burglaries in Mount Vernon Police District
Detectives from FCPD Criminal Investigations Division are investigating multiple burglaries in the Woodlawn and Sacramento Shopping Centers.
Guilty Plea in Conspiring To Sexually Exploit Children
A Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) attorney pleaded guilty last month to conspiring to sexually exploit numerous children.
Tri Pointe Homes To Open Two New Townhome Communities
The projects add more than 220 new homes in Alexandria.
Tri Pointe Homes, Inc., one of the largest homebuilders in the U.S., wil hold the grand opening of two new townhome communities in Alexandria. Eisenhower Pointe will open in the West End neighborhood on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024.
Win Some, Lose Some
12 out of 23 is not so bad.
Bills are on the move this fourth week of session here in Richmond! I have had several “losses” this week with my legislation, but they are outweighed by my “wins”.
Fill the Fridge for Carpenter’s Shelter
Carpenter’s Shelter needs help to Fill the Fridge from Feb. 20 to Feb. 24. Your help is needed to fill the refrigerators, freezers and pantries at the Hoffman Center and Alexandria Community Shelter (ACS).
Donald Dinan
Alexandria Aces founder dies at 74.
“Don was a walking encyclopedia and a wealth of knowledge.” — Alexandria Aces owner Frank Fannon
Chamber Business Scholarships for High School Seniors
Applications are now open for business scholarships for graduating high school seniors provided by Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce.
Police Seek Help Identifying Carjacking Suspects
Detectives from FCPD Major Crimes Bureau are releasing images from Jan. 25's armed carjacking in the Mount Vernon District, and requesting assistance from community members.
Rapid Bus System Central to U.S. 1 Revitalization
Planners envision a 7.5-mile section as an urbanized Main Street centered around six mixed-use business centers.
Revitalization
Placemaking is the Centerpiece of Recent Mount Vernon Corridor Event
Planners gathered for two-day session to map out possible improvement ideas.
Placemaking
Friends of the Reston Regional Library Donate $100K to Fairfax County Public Library
Supervisor Walter Alcorn announces location on the new Reston Regional Library.
Library
Murder, Romance, Revenge and Amazing Songs
Not Just Dance presents dramatic musical, ‘Sweeney Todd.’
Sweeney Todd
Tuesday, February 6
“Flourishing After 55” in Arlington
After 55
Arlington Students Collect Clothes for Free Pop Up Shop
EcoAction Arlington and other local groups support ‘swap don't shop’ event
pop up shop
Virginia General Assembly Needs Input From Voters
Priority legislation outlined by Virginia Grassroots Coalition
VOTE
NVSO Sets 2024 Dates
Sr Olympics
County’s FY 2025 Budget Process Kicks Into Gear
Potential budgetary shortfall of $284.5 million complicates matters.
Budget
Commonwealth Is Failing Students
Students
Money Does Grow On Trees
Virginia Forestry pays for community tree plantings
Virginia Forestry pays for community tree plantings
Local Audubon Chapter Votes to Change Its Name
John James Audubon claimed ownership of enslaved people
Audobon
Casino Bill SB 675 Carries Over in 13 to 2 Vote
VA Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee ends consideration of a Tysons casino for this session; likely to be back in 2025
Casino bill
Sunday, February 4
Casino Bill is Dead for 2024
Carried it over until 2025.
Sen. Marsden’s SB 675 Casino Bill Carried Over: Opponents react; Marsden touts benefits.
Thursday, February 1
Local Author’s Internet Marketing Book Hits Bestseller List
It’s not all about ‘likes’ and ‘views’ out there.
Local Author’s Internet Marketing Book
Country Feeling Captured in a Painting at Nalls Produce
Former Franconia art teacher honors the owner and a pet pig in a painting.
Nalls Painting