Robinson Band Goes to Indianapolis

The Robinson Secondary Symphonic Band has been selected as a featured band for the 2014 Music for All National Concert Band Festival, part of the 2014 Music for All National Festival, which will be held in Indianapolis in March 2014. Selection of featured bands was competitive; Robinson Band Director Andrew Loft submitted a recording of selections from the state concert band assessment for consideration. Robinson’s Symphonic Band is made up of 60 students and will be one of 16 bands from across the country performing as a featured band. Students will begin rehearsing for the performance once the 2013-14 school year begins. Contact event liaison Andrew Loft at aeloft@fcps.edu.

Be Alert for Students

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.

Citizens Can Be Trained for Emergencies

When emergencies happen, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members can give critical support to first responders, provide immediate assistance to victims, and organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site. CERT members can also help with non-emergency projects that help improve the community’s preparedness and safety.

Fairfax County is offering two local CERT basic training classes this fall. Both will be held at the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Academy, 4600 West Ox Road in Fairfax. The first class is held on Mondays, beginning Sept. 9, and the second class, on Wednesdays, beginning Sept. 11. Each will have eight sessions from 7-10 p.m., combining classroom instruction with practice drills and exercises.

CERT basic training doesn’t require any special physical strength or agility. Safety and preparedness is stressed throughout the course. This training is free and CERT furnishes personal protective equipment for the training that students will keep upon completion of the class. People who go through CERT training have a better understanding of the potential threats to their home, workplace and community and can take the right steps to lessen their impact.

Enroll at www.fairfaxcert.com. Register as a new volunteer and, when confirmed, log in and register for CERT class 73, 74 or 75. For further information contact the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Volunteer Coordinator’s Office, 703-246-3926, TTY 711.

Freedom Fund Banquet on Sept. 22

Fairfax County NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet is Sunday, Sept. 22, from 2-5 p.m. at Waterford Springfield, 6715 Commerce St. in Springfield. The theme is "Together We Stand." Tickets are $65 for adults and $45 for youth 16 and under. The guest speaker is Rev. Dr. Kenny Smith, former pastor of First Baptist Church of Vienna in Vienna.

The emcee is Sheila Stewart, Radio-One DC’s award winning news and community affairs director. You can mail your payment by using the form at www.fairfaxnaacp.org.

You can also pay for your tickets and/or program ad at http://fairfaxnaacp.org/Freedom_Fund_2.php.