Friday, September 27
Commentary: In Search of Affordable Housing
Challenges for Residential Studio Units and the need to address them.
Fairfax County’s Planning Commission will hold two workshops on Wednesday, Sept. 25 and Oct. 2 to expand the discussion about the proposed residential studio unit (RSU) amendment to the Zoning Ordinance. There will be a staff presentation on Sept. 25, and questions submitted online by citizens to the Planning Department will be answered in the second workshop on Oct 2. The plan is for both workshops to be televised on the county’s cable station.
Thursday, September 26
Editorial: Vote
It will matter who is elected governor.
To vote on Election Day, you must be registered at your current address no later than Oct. 15, 2013. You can check your registration status online by visiting the State Board of Elections website at www.sbe.virginia.gov. There you can also download a voter registration form and mail or fax it to your elections office address.
Column: A Study in Contrasts
The decision for yours truly to participate in a Phase 1 Study at N.I.H. or Johns Hopkins (depending upon availability and qualifications) discussed in last week’s column has been put on hold, temporarily. It seems that my oncologist was thinking about me over the holiday weekend and called me on Wednesday following Labor Day to say he had a diagnostic idea concerning me: a 24-hour urine collection (a “Creatinine Clearance Study”) which would provide a more accurate reading (than the regular lab work I have; from blood) of my kidney function.
Column: A Peculiar Existence
I’m not exactly pretending that I don’t have stage IV lung cancer (non-small cell, to be specific), but ever since my hospital admission on August 2nd, I have been treatment-free; no I.V. chemotherapy, no oral medication, no targeted treatment, no nothing. And during this sabbatical (I use that term loosely; being off chemotherapy has been as much about recovering from surgery and recuperating from my hospital “stay-cation” as it was anything necessarily intended), I have progressed from feeling crappy and being short of breath—while being infused previously, to where I have become relatively asymptomatic, breathing normally and for the nearly eight week treatment-free interval mentioned, have felt mostly OK.
Late Goals Propel Woodson Field Hockey to Victory
West Potomac goalkeeper Hauptle plays well in defeat.
Cavaliers score three times in the final 2:35 against West Potomac.
Residential Studios Put on Hold
Supervisors establish committee, plan additional public outreach.
At the recommendation of Chairman Sharon Bulova (D-At-Large) and Supervisor Michael Frey (R-Sully), the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Sept. 24 deferred its Nov. 20 public hearing on a proposed residential studios (RSUs) amendment to conduct additional community outreach. The board also established a Planning Commission Residential Studios Committee.
Northern Virginia Supports Day to Serve
The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC), a coalition of 14 counties, cities and towns that work together on regional issues, passed a unanimous resolution endorsing Virginia Governor Robert F. McDonnell’s call to participate in the 2013 Day to Serve.
New Nosy Recruits ‘Bolt & Silas’ Prepare for Duty
Although they are just a few months old and still in their bonding and training phases, two new bloodhound pups are preparing for the rigors of police work in Fairfax County. Bolt and Silas are the police department’s newest additions to their bloodhound team. The agency purchased the pups in August when they were just 6 weeks old. They join Shnoz and Cody, sisters from the hills of Northern Alabama who joined the agency in 2008 at 19 months old.
McAuliffe, Cuccinelli Highlight Small Business Summit
Gubernatorial candidates speak at the Mason Inn & Conference Center.
Virginia gubernatorial candidates Terry McAuliffe and Ken Cuccinelli were the keynote speakers at the fourth annual Virginia Small Business Partnership (VASBP) Summit, hosted by Miller/Wenhold Capitol Strategies LLC at The Mason Inn in Fairfax on Friday, Sept. 20. “We are thrilled to have them join us,” said Paul A. Miller, chairman of the VASBP.
Wear Jeans to Work, Help End Homelessness
Register now to participate in Jeans Day Fairfax on Oct. 18.
Just by wearing jeans to work, you can actively help nearly 3,000 men, women and children in Fairfax County who face homelessness and hunger every day. On Tuesday, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors proclaimed Friday, Oct. 18 “Jeans Day Fairfax,” the third annual Jeans Day event in Fairfax County.
FPYC Cross Country Holds Competition
About 246 children ages 5-16 took part in the FPYC Cross Country Race on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 22, at Daniels Run Elementary School in Fairfax. As part of National Running Day on Friday, cross country clubs from Bethesda, SYA in Centreville, St. Rita’s in Arlington and the Dale City Track Club joined in the competition. Runners received ribbons and badges in the following categories: 6-U is a 1K, 7-8 is a 2K, 9-10 is a 3K, 11-12 is a 3K, 13-14 is a 4K, and 15-Plus is a 5K. The FPYC Club holds the Peter Banks Invitational, in honor of the program founder, and competes each weekend through Nov. 3; the post-season extends until Dec. 14. The long-term director is Gary Sidor, who along with head coach Dennis Harrison, have been key to the program’s success for years. Some of the FPYC’s alumni includes Macey Schweikert of Robinson; Luke Sharkey of Robinson; Alex McGuire of Woodson and Lauren Berman of Robinson. The next race is Oct. 6 from 1:30-4 p.m. at Van Dyke Park in Fairfax.
Dr. Gregory Sibley to Lead Virginia Cancer Specialists Radiation Oncology Center
Gregory S. Sibley, M.D., experienced Washington, D.C. area radiation oncologist, has been selected to head the Virginia Cancer Specialists (VCS) Radiation Oncology Center in Fairfax. VCS is Northern Virginia’s premier cancer care center, providing 40 years of service to patients battling cancer and blood diseases and affiliated with The US Oncology Network.
A Show That ‘Rocks’
Providence Players of Fairfax open 16th season with musical, “Little Shop of Horrors.”
With fresh faces, the Providence Players open the theater season with only the second musical the company has done in its 16 years. It is the brash, bright, delightfully dark musical comedy, "Little Shop of Horrors."
Wednesday, September 25
Recalling Defining Moments at Fairfax High School
Former teacher there returns for class’s 50-year reunion.
In the foreword to her book, “One Moment,” Joan Williamson Higgs writes, “The moments that define us are almost never predictable or expected. We go through life thinking we are immune to its inevitable tragedies and its heartbreaking surprises.”
Long-distance Cycling for Campus Safety
Gran Fondo to raise money, awareness for VTV Family Outreach Foundation.
Gran Fondos are long-distance, group cycling rides that originated in Italy. And on Saturday, Oct. 5, the new Mosaic District in Fairfax will host the third annual VTV Gran Fondo for Campus Safety.
A Loving Neighbor Remembered
Friends, family remember Navy Yard victim Martin Bodrog as “humble” and devoted to God, family and his beloved Boston Bruins.
Isabel Bodrog recalled an awkward moment in high school when her friends started complaining about their fathers. When it was her turn to talk about her father, Martin Bodrog, she searched for something to say.
Police Concerned about ‘Molly’/Ecstasy Use
Fairfax County Police Organized Crime and Narcotics Unit (OCN) detectives have seen approximately 168 cases involving MDMA – also known as ecstasy or “Molly” – an average of eight per month between January 2012 and August 2013.
Opinion: Vote
It will matter who is elected governor.
Absentee voting has already begun; Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. If you’ve read this far, you care enough that voting is absolutely essential.
Area Divers Make National Team
Madison’s Campbell, Robinson’s Flory to represent the U.S. at Junior Pan American Championships.
Grayson Campbell, a sophomore at Madison High School, and Max Flory, a seventh-grader at Robinson Secondary School, will represent the United States at the Junior Pan American Diving Championships from Sept. 26-29 in Tucson, Ariz. More than 100 divers from nine countries will participate.
Week in Fairfax
Del. Bulova to Hold Saturday Morning Coffee
This Saturday, Sept. 28, Del. David Bulova (D-37) will continue a tradition started in 2006 by holding the first in a series of informal office hours to take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Constituents are invited to talk about issues of interest and to ask questions about legislation affecting their community. The format is casual and no appointment is needed.
Alex Whitworth to Lead Paul VI Girls Lacrosse
Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax has announced Alexandra Whitworth as their new head coach for girls' lacrosse. A graduate of Paul VI Class of 2003, Coach Whitworth comes to PVI after serving the past four years as the head coach at McLean High School. She is also a successful coach with the SuperNova Select Lacrosse Club and previously spent one season as the JV head coach at WT Woodson High School.
Fairfax High Student Honored for Writing
A Fairfax High sophomore was among those honored Sunday for their entries in a Grandparents Day writing contest. She is Maeve Costello and she received an honorable mention for a story she wrote called, “Meeting Charlie.”
Del. Bulova to Hold Saturday Morning Coffee
Del. David Bulova (D-37) will continue a tradition started in 2006 by holding the first in a series of informal office hours to take place from 9 to 11 a.m. this Saturday, Sept. 28. Constituents are invited to talk about issues of interest and to ask questions about legislation affecting their community. The format is casual and no appointment is needed.
‘Horrible and Senseless’ Tragedy
Four area residents killed in Navy Yard rampage.
Decorated U.S. Navy Commander Martin Bodrog’s life was cut short when 34-year-old Aaron Alexis opened fire at the Washington Navy Yard on Monday morning, Sept. 16, killing Bodrog and 11 others. He was remembered in a moving Celebration of Life service at Immanuel Bible Church in Springfield on Saturday, Sept. 21 attended by more than 1,300 friends and family.
Medicare, Caregiving Seminars
Fairfax County is offering Medicare 101—a two-three hour program on Medicare basics. Find more information and register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/vicap.htm or call the numbers below.
Crafts, Plays, Dance: Fun Events for Fall
Below is a partial listing of some autumn events happening in the local area: Oct. 12—The Fairfax Fall Festival, held throughout the streets of downtown Saturday, Oct. 12, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. There’ll be crafts galore, plus food, music and fun for children.
Area Divers to Represent the U.S. at Junior Pan American Championships
Grayson Campbell, a sophomore at Madison High School, and Max Flory, a seventh-grader at Robinson Secondary School, will represent the United States at the Junior Pan American Diving Championships from Sept. 26-29 in Tucson, Ariz. More than 100 divers from nine countries will participate.
Tuesday, September 24
Full Disclosure? Forms Plagued By Lack of Information, Absence of Oversight
Fairfax County goes so far as to redact disclosure documents.
Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell is in hot water for taking gifts without disclosing them, and legislators are talking about increasing disclosure requirements for family members. But here in Northern Virginia, personal financial disclosure forms are often incomplete and inconsistent.
Thursday, September 19
Fairfax Home Sales: August, 2013
In August 2013, 121 Fairfax homes sold between $1,145,000-$142,000.
Fairfax Home Sales: August, 2013
Editorial: Addressing Virginia’s Economy
Ending gridlock in Congress and supporting health care reform would be huge steps in supporting economic recovery in Virginia.
The strength of Virginia’s economy, especially Northern Virginia’s economy, comes significantly from federal spending. So while the governor and other elected officials claim that Virginia’s success is because Virginia is a low-tax state with fewer regulations, it’s worth considering that the sequester and continuing gridlock in Congress threaten Virginia’s most important resource, federal spending.
Navy Yard Shootings Hit Close to Home
Four Fairfax County victims killed in Washington Navy Yard rampage.
“Marty was a kind and caring man. He had such a sweet spirit and was in every way a man that lived his life to honor Christ.” —Pastor Steve Holley of Immanuel Bible Church in Springfield
Local Business Leaders Spotlight Opportunities for UK Companies
Fairfax County EDA organizes Sept. 26 seminar in London.
Fairfax County’s Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) officials announced Tuesday, Sept. 17, that local executives will speak at a London seminar to spotlight opportunities for British companies interested in homeland security business opportunities in the United States.
Westfield Field Hockey Beats Fairfax
Johnson, Winesett score goals for Bulldogs.
Westfield field hockey improves to 6-2.
Robinson Volleyball Sweeps Lake Braddock
Balanced Rams share offensive load.
Three Rams finished with at least nine kills.
Full Disclosure?
Forms plagued by a lack of information, absence of oversight; redacted documents.
Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell is in hot water for taking gifts without disclosing them, and legislators are talking about increasing disclosure requirements for family members. But here in Northern Virginia, personal financial disclosure forms are often incomplete and inconsistent. Some elected officials choose to disclose a great deal of information while others disclose very little. Fairfax County officials have decided to redact information that's supposed to be part of the public record. And nobody is reviewing the forms to make sure they are accurate.
‘Beltway 1’ Goes to Georgia
Youth golfers of Springfield, Fairfax win PGA Jr. Golf League Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship.
Ten boys ages 7 to 13 representing four Northern Virginia area golf clubs (Army Navy Country Club, Springfield Country Club, Country Club of Fairfax, and Mount Vernon Country Club) defeated similar all-star teams from Chattanooga, Tenn., Louisville, Ky., and Chesapeake, Va. to win the Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship of the PGA Jr. Golf League. The team comprises TJ Repczynski, Kyle Cardenas, David Stanford, Michael Stanford and Graham Kalan representing Army Navy Country Club; Logan Schwartz and Mason Jones representing Springfield Country Club; Wesley Duffy and Josh Dizinno representing Mount Vernon Country Club; and Noah Blocher representing the Country Club of Fairfax. “Beltway 1,” as the team is known, now moves on to the National Championships to be held at TPC Sugarloaf in Georgia where they will compete against regional winners from Chicago, New England, Texas, California and the Southeast.
Week in Fairfax
City of Fairfax police are investigating a robbery that happened last Tuesday, Sept. 10, around 10:45 p.m., at a home in the 3900 block of Bradwater Street in the Comstock community. The occupants reported that two males forced their way into the townhouse, implied they had weapons, took several items of property and physically assaulted several of the occupants, who sustained minor injuries.
Viva Vets! 5K Comes to Area
Event funds scholarships for military veterans.
A 5K race that helps America’s military veterans further their education is coming to the local area. It’s the Viva Vets! 5K Run/Walk, and it is slated for Sunday, Sept. 29, at 8:30 a.m. at Fairfax Corner.
Motor Squad Wins Team Competition in Wisconsin
Eight members of the Fairfax County Police Motor Squad recently traveled to Milwaukee, Wis. for a two-day motorcycle riding safety and skills competition. The event was held at the headquarters of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company and marked its 110th anniversary.
Fairfax Library Foundation Awards Continuing Education Scholarships
Fairfax Library Foundation has awarded three Fairfax County Public Library employees and volunteers with Continuing Education scholarships to foster the professional development of the Fairfax County Public Library team.
Classified Advertising Sept. 18, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Wednesday, September 18
Dr. Esi Joins Dental Associates of Northern Virginia
Dental Associates of Northern Virginia, with six convenient locations in Northern Virginia, welcomes Ejiro Esi, D.D.S., a board-certified orthodontist, to its Fair Oaks practice, located at 12011 Lee Jackson Highway, Suite 105, Fairfax.
Robinson Graduate Completes Air Force Basic Training
AB Alexander Marris, son of Randy and Maria Marris of Fairfax, has graduated from Air Force Basic Training. Marris enlisted in the Air Force April 29. He graduated Basic Training in June in the top 10 percent of his graduating class of 600 and received the distinction of Honor Graduate.
Letter: Celebrating Constitution, Citizenship
To the Editor: On Tuesday, Sept. 17, our country celebrated Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. During Constitution Week, from Sept. 16 to Sept. 23, more than 18,000 people will become citizens during approximately 180 naturalization ceremonies across the country and overseas.
Short Film Fest Comes to Fairfax
DC Shorts Film Festival to be held at Angelika Film Center.
With its motto, "keeping it short, keeping it reel," the DC Shorts Film Festival returns for its second year at the Angelika Film Center. The multi-day festival gives Fairfax County residents a nearby, easy-to-reach opportunity to sample and enjoy new works right in their own backyard. The Angelika will present short films from Monday, Sept. 24 through Sunday, Sept. 29.
Dedicated Fans to Win Year of Free Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A will open its newest metro-DC stand-alone restaurant in Fairfax on Sept. 19, giving away free Chick-fil-A for a year to the first 100 adults in line at the new restaurant at 4516 Fair Knoll Drive. It is the first in the region built by the chain to meet the standards of the U.S Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program.
‘Finished on Time, Within Budget’
End of the road for parkway interchange project.
It’s been a long time coming, but the Fair Lakes interchange is just about done. And last Thursday, Sept. 12, Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell joined local officials here to cut the ribbon on a project improving travel for drivers on the Fair Lakes and Fairfax County parkways, plus Monument Drive. “It’s great to celebrate these achievements,” he said. “The Fairfax County Parkway has been a lifeline of this county for so long. This was a marvelous story of VDOT and our private-sector construction teams working together, and it will benefit this county for a long time.”
Letter: Taking Exception
To the Editor: Representative Jim Moran's commentary on Syria ["Fear of Action Opens Way for Diplomacy," Connection, Sept. 12-18, 2013] deserves a response.
Fundraiser to Help Stop Domestic Violence
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Supervisor John C. Cook (R- Braddock District) invites area residents to join him to raise awareness of domestic violence and help two local charities, Shelter House and Fairfax CASA.
Tuesday, September 17
A New Beginning for Fairfax County Public Libraries?
Library trustees vote to discard beta plan in favor of more public outreach sessions.
On Wall Street, a “beta” test refers to assessing the risk, volatility and expected return of a particular portfolio. If Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) officials had a crystal ball to assess the volatility of its planned beta tests this fall, it’s likely they may have steered clear of the project that became a quagmire of epic proportions.
What’s Wrong With This Picture?
County suspends discarding of library books.
Just when Sam Clay, Fairfax County’s Public Library director, thought FCPL’s public image couldn’t get any worse, Supervisor Linda Smyth (D-Providence) released photos of bins filled to the brim with discarded library books.
Letter: Joining Forces to Prevent Homelessness
You can prevent homelessness, you can end chronic homelessness, you can move people rapidly out of homelessness. What you cannot do is stand aside and let people fall. This simple belief—that together we can change the rate and severity of people losing their homes—brings together nonprofits, for-profits, civic leaders and government staff. We each play a special role, depending on our location and mission. For United Community Ministries (UCM), prevention is the key.
Monday, September 16
Gros To Lead Glasgow Middle School
Doctoral candidate to mentor most ethnically diverse school in Alexandria.
On July 1, Penny Gros, 43, of Burke was named the new principal of Glasgow Middle School, an ethnically diverse school in Alexandria. It’s the best fit for the Spanish-speaking doctoral candidate in her 19th year in education. “This school is a perfect fit for my background, experience and passions,” she said. As a true melting pot, Glasgow Middle has 1551 students enrolled who were born in 65 different countries and speak 57 languages — Urdu, Spanish, Arabic, Vietnamese, among others. The school demographics are: 46 percent Hispanic, 24 percent White, 15 percent Asian, 11 percent Black, 31 percent ESOL. There are 16 percent of students in the Level 4/Advanced Academics program and 10 percent in the AVID program. And 75 percent of the students are on the free/reduced lunch program. In terms of student counts, Glasgow has 579 in sixth grade, 480 in seventh grade and 492 in eighth grade.
Friday, September 13
Michael & Son Fun Zone Comes to Fair Oaks Mall
Michael & Son Services, the leading home improvement service in the mid-Atlantic region, will sponsor the new Michael & Son Fun Zone play area at Fair Oaks Mall through 2018. The Michael & Son Fun Zone, now under construction as part of Fair Oaks’ multi-million dollar renovation, is scheduled to open in November of this year.
Eating Pizza Can Help Local Girl
Paisano’s holding fundraiser for Tara Sankner.
A fundraiser being held by a local pizza chain won’t cure Tara Sankner’s cancer—but it’ll certainly help her parents pay for her medical bills. Called “Let’s Take Care of Tara,” it began Sept. 3 and will run through Sept. 30 at all Paisano’s locations.
County News & Notes
Putting Brakes on Neighborhood Speeding
In an effort to get drivers to slow down in residential neighborhoods, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved $350,000 to fund a public awareness campaign and “traffic calming” measures in the county Tuesday, Sept. 10. Supervisor John Cook (R-Braddock) initiated the measure last year, soliciting constituent support through an online petition, which resulted in more than 250 signatures and hundreds of emails from supporters.
What to See, When to See It
The playwright Tom Stoppard’s existential spinoff from “Hamlet” runs for one night in March 2014. Two relatively minor roles from the bard’s play tirelessly and cleverly weigh their significance in the historic royal plot. The production of the tragic comedy benefits from direction by Tony Award-winner John Rando.
HOV Lanes Closing on Weekends
Closures begin on Friday night, Sept. 13 and continue each weekend until late October.
To advance the fast track towards completion, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will be closing the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes every weekend starting on Friday nights and keeping them closed until Sunday afternoons in September and Monday mornings in October for 95 Express Lanes construction. These closures are scheduled to begin on Friday night, Sept. 13 and continue each weekend until late October. The lanes will be closed from just north of I-495 to Dumfries.
Column: Now This is What
Do nothing (no more treatment) and live life to the fullest (for as long as I’m able, and right now, I’m extremely able); start another chemotherapy protocol – with an I.V. chemotherapy drug which, according to my oncologist, has not been proven in any clinical setting to be better than the patient doing nothing; or, try to get into a Study (Phase 1, 2 or 3) at either N.I.H. (National Institutes of Health) or Johns Hopkins (in Baltimore) and let the treatment chips fall wherever experimental/research medicine takes them. This is what my oncologist discussed with Team Lourie at my most recent appointment, my first appointment with him since my hospitalization and subsequent release.
An Artistic Evening Like No Other
“ARTS by George!” returns to George Mason stage.
With an open invitation to the community, the George Mason University College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) is holding its eighth annual "ARTS by George!" event. It has quickly become one of the premiere arts events in Northern Virginia. The mission of "ARTS by George!" is to showcase and support Mason students in a wide range of artistic fields including arts, dance, music, theater, computer game design, film and video studies and arts management. The gala raises funds to provide for student scholarships. It is capped off this year by the headliner performance of Tony Award winner Laura Benanti.
NVAR Summit at GMU’s Mason Inn
Complex shortage of homes for sale likely to persist; boomers not planning to retire, not planning to move, experts say. Rising mortgage rates should inspire renters to buy soon.
Nationally syndicated columnist and moderator Kenneth R. Harney introduced the expert panel for the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors (NVAR) 17th annual Economic Summit Thursday morning, Sept. 5. Dr. David Crowe, chief economist and senior vice president of the National Association of Home Builders, joined economic experts David E. Versel, a senior research associate at the George Mason University Center for Regional Analysis, and Dr. Lawrence Yun, senior economist for the National Association of Realtors.
Condo Renovations
As sales of condominiums grow, so does demand for luxury renovations.
More people are moving from leafy, sprawling suburbs to more urban areas, neighborhoods both in the city and in Northern Virginia that offer close proximity to restaurants, jobs, cultural activities and Metro.
Big Ideas for Small Spaces
Local designers offer ideas for decorating small rooms.
Whether one is sprucing up a small powder room or decorating a studio apartment, space limitations often pose a design challenge. However, local designers say that no matter how a small space’s square footage or how awkward the layout, there are plenty of decorative cures for small spaces. Whether one is sprucing up a small powder room or decorating a studio apartment, space limitations often pose a design challenge. However, local designers say that no matter how a small space’s square footage or how awkward the layout, there are plenty of decorative cures for small spaces.
Top-to-Bottom Makeover Embraces Longterm Horizons
The Hollis family wanted a house that would work better today — and long into the future.
Sometimes it’s not limited square footage that makes a house feel inadequate — it’s how that square footage is configured.
Lambert Named Teacher of the Year
Earlier this summer, Robinson Secondary School teacher Cara Lambert received a pre-back-to-school surprise. The Virginia Business Education Association (VBEA) had named her the 2013 Al Roane Middle School Business Teacher of the Year. “It was exciting,” said Lambert. “This wasn’t my chosen career to begin with, but it’s a career that I love, so it’s nice to be recognized. Anyone would enjoy winning an award.”
Jubilee! to Help Libraries
A Library Jubilee! to raise funds for Library programs.
Fairfax Library Foundation will be hosting its fifth annual Library Jubilee, with this year’s theme, “Let Loose in the Library!” Oct. 5, 5-8 p.m. at the Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke. Thanks to many sponsors, especially Signature Guardian Sponsor, the Friends of Burke Centre Library, the Jubilee is the foundation’s largest fundraising event of the year, and all proceeds will help enhance programs and services offered by Fairfax County Public Library including: Changing Lives Through Literature, Early Literacy Outreach, programs and presentations, scholarships, and books and materials. Last year’s Jubilee raised a record amount of $130,000.
Like Magic
New plan in built-out 1940s colonial gains vital square footage as young family looks ahead.
In the end, a skillful spatial reconfiguration is like a deft magician's trick — you've seen it with your own eyes, but you still can't figure out how they did it. “Really, I don't know how this plan created so much more usable space,” Alexandria resident Alice Goulet said, discussing a recent reconfiguration to several rooms in the family's 1,800-square-foot center-hall Colonial.
Northern Virginia Designers Awarded Rooms in Showhouse Event
Northern Virginia/metro area interior designers Kelley Proxmire of Kelley Interior Design and Wayne Breeden of E. Wayne Breeden Design are among 17 designers awarded rooms at the benefit Winchester Showhouse & Gardens, open to the public through Sept. 29.
Sun Design Named One of U.S.’s Fastest Growing Private Companies
Sun Design Remodeling Specialists, Inc., of Fairfax, was named by Inc. Magazine as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This is the fourth time the magazine has included Sun Design on its annual Inc. 5000 list.
Thursday, September 12
Editorial: Small Steps to Fight Homelessness
Efficiency apartments would serve 20-somethings, service workers, retirees and more.
One way to prevent homelessness is to think small. It doesn’t take much space to house one person. Sure, many houses in our area have 1,000 square feet and sometimes two or three times that much per person, but that’s really not necessary.
Celebrating Diversity Through Music
The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (FSO) will be presenting bilingual master classes and outreach presentations at various Fairfax County venues.
With grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Arts Council of Fairfax County, the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (FSO) will be presenting bi-lingual master classes and outreach presentations at various Fairfax County venues in the coming weeks.
Classified Advertising September 11, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Wednesday, September 11
Week in Fairfax
A Fairfax man charged with sexually molesting a child has been indicted by a Fairfax County grand jury. He is Eduardo Requejo, 23, of Warwick Avenue.
Friday, September 6
Chess Champ Wins by Strategy
At the age of 9, Fair Lakes Crossing resident is ranked 4th nationally.
At the age of 9, Aasa Dommalapati, a fourth-grader at Greenbriar West Elementary, competed against the top chess players in Brazil and Canada during the summer months. She is currently ranked fourth nationally in the girls U-9 category.
A Candidate Who Takes Notes
Thanks to your newspaper I learned that Patrice Winter is running for delegate in the 37th District. On Aug. 31, I walked to her first listening session with voters. As a successful small business owner, Patrice knows it’s important to help others get started, so she chose the new American Bistro in downtown Fairfax. Thanks to Winter I now know it’s open.
Woodson’s Jacob Nelson Is Starring in Musical
Student has lead role in “High School Musical 2 Jr.”
Woodson High junior Jacob Nelson has the lead role of Troy Bolton in CentreStage Community Theatre’s production of “High School Musical 2 Jr.” Show times are Thursday-Saturday, Sept. 12, 13 and 14, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 15, at 2 p.m., at Centreville Presbyterian Church, 15450 Lee Highway in Centreville.
Area Roundups
Now that school is back in session, Fairfax County police urge motorists to be even more vigilant for pedestrians and bicyclists. Commuters should expect increased congestion throughout the week and build extra travel time into their schedules. Residents may also notice police officers posted in school zones and near bus stops to help ensure pedestrian safety, plus safe loading and unloading of students. Drivers are reminded that, when bus lights and stop signs are activated, vehicles must stop in both directions, unless they’re separated from the bus by a median.
Miss Israel Comes to Fairfax
The Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia hosts meet and greet with Yityish Aynaw.
The Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia will host an evening with Miss Israel, Yityish Aynaw, the first Ethiopian-born woman to win the Israeli beauty pageant, on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 7:30 p.m. at the JCCNV, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome.
Firefighters Hit the Streets to Fill-the-boot
Connolly praised Fairfax County fire department as “one of the best in the nation.”
Fairfax County Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics Local 2068 kicked off its annual Fill-the-Boot drive for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Wednesday, Aug. 28 at Fire Station 14 in Burke.
Commentary: The Children Fairfax Shouldn’t Leave Behind
It’s the beginning of a new school year, and we in Fairfax are justifiably proud of our schools, which we proclaim are “among the best in the nation.” But what we don’t discuss enough is whether they are the best for all of our children. When we measure FCPS’s success, we often talk about the number of AP classes taken, high SAT scores and admissions to the best colleges and universities. These “US News and World Report” statistics measure how high our best students can go, but what about the rest? We have a minority student achievement gap. It’s narrowing but is still significant.
Thursday, September 5
Opinion: Dangers of Failure To Act
Our current and future standing in the international community is on the line.
President Obama has sought Congressional approval to carry out limited surgical strikes in Syria against the regime of Bashar al Assad in response to his use of chemical weapons to attack Syrian civilians, which killed 1,429 people, including 426 children.
Editorial: Later Start Times for High School
It’s past time to act; let this year be the year.
Tuesday morning, Sept. 3, the first day of school in Fairfax County, Dr. Karen Garza began her official day at 6:30 a.m. at Chantilly High School. While Garza was making herself available for interviews before the first class started at 7:20 a.m., many students were already on the school bus.
Wellbeing: How To Set Realistic Goals
Local experts say the key to success is setting achievable goals.
Laura Wheeler Poms, of Fairfax, set out to earn a doctorate degree and make a career change. As a wife, mother and working professional, the goal, she said, often felt lofty. “Writing my dissertation at times felt overwhelming, especially if I looked at it as one huge project,” said Poms, who now holds a Ph.D. in industrial/organizational psychology and is an assistant professor of global and community health at George Mason University in Fairfax. “I set goals like writing one page or doing one analysis each day and I was able to get it done. I also gave myself little rewards along the way.”
Column: Indeterminate Sentence
And no, that’s not another made-up phrase by yours truly describing my occasionally cluttered/run-on prose with which many of you extremely patient regular readers are all too familiar. No, it has to do with how I perceive my future now that I’m post-hospital and sleeping in my own bed. Instead of nurses, respiratory therapists, X-ray technicians, doctors and miscellaneous other hospital staff too numerous to list, I have one wife and five cats to do my bidding. And though they’re not nearly as attentive as the hospital staff, I know that they all have my best interests at heart.
Saving Jobs in Hard Times
Virginia lawmakers will push work sharing legislation this session.
“Having been through the recession and recent slight increases in Virginia unemployment rates as federal sequestration takes effect, it is important that we give Virginia businesses all the tools we can to help them and their employees get through challenging times. This bill does that.” —State Sen. George Barker (D-39)
‘Shared Work:’ A Win-Win-Win Solution
Preventing layoffs, maintaining the well-being of employees and their communities and keeping businesses competitive.
How do we mitigate the devastating effects of layoffs on employees, employers and their communities? Is there a "win-win-win" solution?
Wednesday, September 4
Woodson’s Fisher Totals Career-high 31 Kills
Cavaliers beat Robinson in five sets.
Woodson won district championships in 2011, 2012.
Classified Advertising Sept. 4, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Monday, September 2
Shelter Needs Baby Items
The Katherine K. Hanley Family Shelter is asking the local community for donations of laundry detergent powder, baby wipes and umbrella strollers. It currently has 23 families residing there and most of them have babies and toddlers. To donate any of these items, call 571-522-6800.
Where to Find ‘Mayor Scott’ Burgers
City of Fairfax Mayor Scott Silverthorne gives “insider tips” to newcomers.
Q: Being mayor of the City of Fairfax has to be the ultimate “insider” position. What tips do you have for someone new to the city? A: Volunteer, volunteer, volunteer! The best way to get to know your new community, and to get connected and engaged is to volunteer. There are so many boards, festivals and community associations in the city. I would suggest someone new to town check out our new website, which lists a number of great ways for newcomers to get involved.
Insiders’ Tips: What are some of the best things about living here?
Interviews conducted on Friday, Aug. 16 at The Virginian senior living community along Route 50 in Fairfax.
“Since I lived by Wolf Trap, years ago, they used to have fireworks on July 4th. Living here in the Virginian, it’s convenient to stores and shopping centers. There are many activities at The Virginian—it’s your choice. Every day there’s something going on—exercise, Bingo, Bridge, card games and entertainment at night.”
Mayor's Welcome to the City of Fairfax
On behalf of the members of the Fairfax City Council, I want to welcome you. Less than 20 miles outside our nation’s capital, the City of Fairfax has played an important role throughout the history of the Commonwealth of Virginia and our nation. The city’s size of 6.3 square miles and 23,000 residents gives our community the feel of a small town, while providing all the amenities of living in a large metropolitan area.
The Non-profits of South Fairfax County
An aid and mission travel organization that aims to implement sustainability projects, such as clean energy, safe water and sanitation in developing nations. Locally, volunteer opportunities include helping design graphics, social media management and fundraiser writing, in addition to being part of a travel team.
State Senator Marsden Shares ‘Insider Tips’ With Newcomers
Where to find Del. David Bulova bartending (maybe), and feel free to call Senator Marsden.
The possibilities for getting involved in a new community are endless. Throw yourself a “welcome to the neighborhood party” by having your new neighbors over. Join a civic club, Lions, rotary, etc. Join a church, the PTA, or the political party committee of your choice. Just don’t sit there … get started today!
Be a Braddock Insider
What every newcomer should know about living, working and playing in the Braddock District.
Braddock is very much a district of neighborhoods, a rarity in busy and booming Fairfax. Stretching from Annandale to the far edge of Fairfax by the Fairfax County Government Center, we are located in the center of Fairfax County. Braddock District contains key roads for the county such as Route 50, Route 29, Little River Turnpike, Braddock Road, the Fairfax County Parkway, Old Keene Mill, Rolling Road and 495. We are proud to have two institutes of higher learning, George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College, which attract students from all over the world. Here’s a short list of some must-do, must-see places, events and opportunities for newcomers (and old-timers) alike.
Top Neighborhood Issues in the Braddock District
“As new residents to our district, I hope you will join your neighbors in pledging to drive slowly and safely, especially in residential areas.” —Supervisor John Cook (R- Braddock)
