Wednesday, July 31
“Chemo-Nosabe”
Although I’ve not seen the current “The Lone Ranger” theatrical release, I am of a certain age and generation who grew up watching – on black and white television with no remote control and only three watchable channels – the original “The Lone Ranger” (starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels), along with other weekday-afternoon and Saturday-morning classics like “The Rifleman,” “Roy Rogers,” “Sky King,” “Superman,” “Leave It To Beaver” and “Ozzie and Harriet” – in my house, anyway. And though the “effects” weren’t nearly as “special” as they are in today’s movie/television productions/versions, nevertheless, the effects on me, personally, were far greater. Can you say wholesome goodness? The Golden Rule? Do unto others…
‘Regionality’ of Transportation Projects Questioned
Transportation Authority approves FY2014 Project List.
“Tonight we acted to address one of the greatest threats to our region: Congestion.” So spoke Marty Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Coles District supervisor for Prince William County. Despite numerous calls to slow down the process by speakers at the public hearing before the Authority, on Wednesday, July 24, the NVTA approved the FY2014 proposed regional multimodal project list as presented and vetted by the NVTA’s Project Implementation Working Group (PIWG) headed by Authority member (and Arlington County Board Member) Christopher Zimmerman.
A Delicate Balance – At Home
How appropriate is it to tell a cancer patient something negative (that he likely doesn’t want to hear) – yet needs to know, and which might ultimately quash his fighting spirit and adversely affect his day – and night? Moreover, would withholding certain discouraging observations intermittently along the cancer-treatment way, in order for said patient to feel good and positive about himself – and better prepare him for any and all news/results which might upset his precariously imperfect life and moreover, likely chip away at his emotional wherewithal as well – cause more harm than 100-percent honesty all the time?
Silence of the Court
Justices deny public access to shield personal conversations.
The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments. Unlike the U.S. Supreme Court, which denies video recordings but allows audio recordings, the commonwealth's top appeals court has a complete blackout on public access to proceedings. In a written response to questions from Connection Newspapers, the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Virginia Supreme Court explained that audio records were once public, but the installation of new equipment in January 2008 created new concerns for justices.
Keeping Pets Safe
Veterinary experts say common household items can harm animals.
Did you know that a bowl of grapes sitting on your counter can be fatal to your dog or that a bouquet of fragrant lilies could be lethal to a cat? Were you aware that a stick of gum might cause a life-threatening canine emergency? Veterinary experts say that while pet hazards are lurking around almost every home, many pet owners are unaware of them. From favorite foods to over-the-counter-pain relievers, a number of common household items are dangerous to family pets.
The Pampered Pooch
Luxury accessories for well-heeled canines.
Marcia Schwartz strolled through the handbag section at a high-end department store at Tysons Galleria in McLean, Va., her eyes taking in the latest offerings from Prada. The companion at her side was not a personal shopper or a credit card-clad husband, however. It was a snow-white fuzzball with a rhinestone-encrusted collar named Cleopatra. Cleo, as she is most often called, is a Bichon Frisé.
For the Love of Animals
From taking orders in a pizza shop to finding homes for thousands of animals, the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation has a great "tail" to tell.
In 2001, there were too many dogs without homes and too few people to help them.
Tuesday, July 30
Classified Advertising July 31, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Rotary Club of Great Falls Launches Foundation
Foundation will allow for tax deductible donations.
In their first two years, the Rotary Club of Great Falls has experienced almost unprecedented growth, quickly becoming one of the fastest growing clubs in Rotary International. Now they have taken the next step to reach deeper into the community, founding a 501(c)3, the Rotary Club of Great Falls, Virginia Foundation.
New Trail Sections Opened in McLean
Lewinsville Road trail, Ingleside Avenue-Churchill Road add sections.
The last few months have seen new trail connectivity in McLean, giving cyclists and pedestrians easier paths, without putting them in close proximity to cars.
Great Falls Senior Center Holds Luncheon at Chez Francois
The Great Falls Senior Center (GFSC) held its first member luncheon Wednesday, July 24 at L’Auberge Chez Francois. Attended by a capacity guest list, the luncheon is viewed as the first in a series for those who become members of the center.
One Dead Dog is One Too Many
In an effort to deal with an outbreak of a yet-unidentified upper respiratory infection that has resulted in the death of one dog and sickened a dozen more, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter has temporarily suspended the intake of owner-surrendered dogs as of Friday, July 27 until the shelter can be decontaminated and sanitized. Owners wanting to surrender dogs are being sent to other shelters.
Unlocking the Door to Affordable Housing
County considers establishment of residential studio option to assist with housing affordability.
Like most areas that have seen explosive growth in the past 30 years, Fairfax County’s stock of affordable housing has dwindled as it’s grown into one of the nation’s wealthiest counties.
Roessler Named County Police Chief
New police chief vows focus on diversity.
Edwin C. Roessler, named Fairfax County's police chief at Tuesday's Board of Supervisor's meeting, promised to launch a Diversity Council in an effort to recruit, promote and respond to Fairfax County's increasingly diverse community.
KidWX Connects Parents With Providers
Organization has an extensive online database of local resources from music classes to diabetes experts.
When Linda Nimmo and Jamie Finch were looking for resources for their children two years ago, they scoured the internet and local organizations for the right services. The effort was so time consuming that they both left their full-time corporate jobs and turned their quest into a way to help others.
Enjoyable Season at Hamlet
Q&A with Langley High tennis players Pilkinton and Lewis.
Following a trip to the tennis state championship last spring, close friends and teammates Will Pilkinton, 15, and Chase Lewis, 17, are bound to lead Langley High School in a gripping 2014 season.
Having Fun on the Tennis Court
Great Falls Swim and Tennis Club season comes to an end.
At the Great Falls Swim and Tennis Club, young players have found that sweating in the July heat can still be an enjoyable and engaging experience. Through summer lessons and team practices, these students have had the opportunity to improve their skills on the court while making new connections with their fellow players and coaches.
Reviving the Art of Kashmir
Aliyah Pandolfi is the founder and CEO of Al-Kareem Foundation, a nonprofit organization based in Great Falls.
Great Falls ‘Family of Writers’ Comes Together
Inaugural meeting of Great Falls Writer’s Group to be held on Thursday, Aug. 8.
The Great Falls Writer’s Group (GFWG) will be holding its inaugural meeting at the Great Falls Library on Thursday, Aug. 8, at 11:30 a.m.
Preserving Garden Herbs for Year-round Use
Many fresh garden grown herbs can be preserved and used year round by drying the herbs by air, in the oven, in special dehydrators or a microwave.
Jill Banks to Give Free Public Painting Demonstration
"Serendipity," award-winning artist Jill Banks' solo exhibit of over 20 oil paintings created on the streets of Paris and more local spots, figurative works, and those other subjects she was lucky enough to capture on canvas, continues at the Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike through Aug. 31.
Unlocking the Door to Affordable Housing
County considers establishment of residential studio option to assist with housing affordability.
Like most areas that have seen explosive growth in the past 30 years, Fairfax County’s stock of affordable housing has dwindled as it’s grown into one of the nation’s wealthiest counties.
‘Regionality’ of Transportation Projects Questioned
Transportation Authority approves FY2014 Project List.
“Tonight we acted to address one of the greatest threats to our region: Congestion.” So spoke Marty Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Coles District supervisor for Prince William County.
Monday, July 29
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Temporarily Suspends Intake of Dogs
Canine influenza suspected culprit after dozen dogs become ill.
The Fairfax County Animal Shelter has temporarily suspended its intake of dogs, after one dog died of pneumonia and about a dozen more dogs have exhibited symptoms of an unspecified upper respiratory illness.
Thursday, July 25
Langley Club Celebrates Despite Loss
The Langley Wildthings (2-2-1) celebrated this week, despite a 226-194 loss to the Dunn Loring Dolphins.
Wildthings Too Much For Riverside Gardens
The Langley Wildthings were back on top this week with a big win over Riverside Gardens.
StingRays Win Fourth Championship
The undefeated River Bend StingRays beat Westwood (300-216) to win their fourth consecutive DCCL Blue Division Championship.
Silence of the Court: Virginia Supreme Court Denies Access to Audio Recordings
Lack of transparency is explained as effort to shield personal conversations.
The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments.
Wednesday, July 24
Classified Advertising July 24, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Joining Together To Save Animals
There are dozens of animal welfare organizations across the country working to secure "forever homes" for dogs and cats of all ages. And while there's a general camaraderie amongst them, stemming from their common cause, what's a little friendly competition among peers? For the past few years, the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has sponsored a nationwide contest to challenge shelters to see how many more animals they could adopt between June and August beyond the total the year before.
Making Sure Children Don't Go Hungry
Our Daily Bread provides meals for children during summer break.
For most children, summer means the end of homework and tests, and the beginning of cookouts and carefree summer vacations.
Final Touches at Greensboro Station
The platform level canopy at the Greensboro Station is the perfect place to shoot construction looking west along Route 7.
Arts Council of Fairfax County Receives $50,000 Our Town Grant
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) announced 59 Our Town grant awards totaling $4.725 million and reaching 34 states in the Our Town program's third year of funding. The Arts Council of Fairfax County is one of 59 grantees and will receive $50,000 for Imagine Art Here, a public art community engagement project in Tysons.
Claude Moore Farm Holds Market Fair
Visitors of all ages enjoyed activities at the annual fair.
The sounds of violin and shouts of laughter filled the air as people explored the grounds, played games and listened to live music. This weekend, July 20-21, the annual Summer Market Fair was held at the Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. Located in McLean, the Claude Moore Colonial Farm reenacts the typical farm life of Virginia in 1771, just before the American Revolution.
Taking a Rest
Dolce DeGrandis, friend of Bill and Monica DeGrandis of Great Falls.
Open House at Seneca Hill
Canine Companions for Independence puppy Romer III enjoys a free swim at Seneca Hill's aquatic center. Free access to the pool was one of the many things available during the Seneca Hill Animal Hospital, Resort and Spa Open House.
Duchess of Great Falls
Our son Declan has been begging us for a dog for the last several years. We finally received our dog, a German shepherd named Duchess, in late February. She was definitely worth the wait.
Student Art at Starbucks
Forestville Elementary School youth have the honor of exhibiting their original paintings on the walls of the Great Falls Village Center Starbucks, courtesy of Great Falls Studios.
Hamster Haven
People and Pets
If I left it up to my twin 9-year-old girls our house would be overrun with dogs, cats, chickens and any other varmint they happen to run across. I’m an animal person myself, so the nuts haven’t fallen far from the tree. Though we currently have two dogs and a cat, I decided 9 was an appropriate age for the girls to have a pet of their own.
Bridge Replacement on Schedule
Beach Mill Road Bridge construction nearly halfway complete.
Replacement of the bridge on Beach Mill Road is one month into construction, and according to the Virginia Department of Transportation, it is proceeding according to schedule.
Author Finds Mystery in Great Falls Park
John Dibble’s first novel, "Difficult Run," features murder and mystery in Great Falls Park.
John Dibble is used to finding solace in Great Falls Park. He often walks the paths of the park with his dog Noochie. His familiarity with the park made it the perfect setting for his first novel, the mystery thriller "Difficult Run," named for the stream that first inspired him.
McLean Orchestra Hosts Fundraiser
Supporters of McLean Orchestra gather at McLean residence.
Supporters and friends of the McLean Orchestra came together Sunday, July 20 to re-affirm the commitment they’ve made to the organization, and to look forward to their upcoming "Season of Festivity," which will begin this fall. Ann Page, past president and board member, hosted several dozen supporters at her McLean home.
Gallery 65 Hosts Performance Art
Artist Christine Walters paints two pictures to music during live art event.
A steady thump of electronic drums could be heard at the Langley Shopping Center Thursday, July 18. The sounds were aimed to draw people into the Color Wheel Gallery 65 to get a glimpse of live art being created.
Tuesday, July 23
Mediterranee Promotes Local Art
Nikole Smith exhibits bold, abstract art.
In their series highlighting local artists, Mediterranee owners Ashraf Hussein and Eddie Marine have chosen to follow up D.C.-based impressionist Frank James Ellis’ in-restaurant exhibit with Nikole Smith’s abstract paintings.
Monday, July 22
Lost Dog: Helping Save Lives, One Pet at a Time
Area residents explain their dedication to the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation.
Behind every adoption successfully completed by the Arlington-based Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, there's a volunteer with a happy heart.
Friday, July 19
Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Great Falls and McLean
In May 2013, 31 Great Falls homes sold between $2,840,000-$410,000 and 132 homes sold between $5,677,777-$127,800 in McLean.
Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Great Falls and McLean
Thursday, July 18
Great Falls Home Sales: June, 2013
In June 2013, 38 Great Falls homes sold between $3,225,000-$535,000.
Great Falls Home Sales: June, 2013
Elizabeth Kruse Leads WIHS Junior Committee as Youth Ambassador
The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), one of the world’s most prestigious equestrian events, has chosen Elizabeth Kruse of McLean as youth ambassador of the 2013 show.
Editorial: Share Wisdom With Newcomers and Others
The Connection's Newcomers and Community Guide publishes in late August.
Our Insider's Edition Newcomers and Community Guides, will publish the last week of August. What tips do you have for someone getting to know your community? We're hoping to share the places, activities, events, organizations and volunteer opportunities your neighbors might not know about. What great places and activities do you want your new neighbors to know about? Events that should not be missed? Organizations that do a great job? Places to volunteer? Tips for navigating your PTA or your school’s front office? We'd love to have your photos to go along with your suggestions.
Wednesday, July 17
Jill Banks Exhibits at the Great Falls Library
Serendipity," award-winning artist Jill Banks' solo exhibit of over 20 oil paintings created on the streets of Paris and more local spots, figurative works, and other subjects she captured on canvas, opened at the Great Falls Library on July 1.
Letter: Climate Change
An Existential Threat
To the Editor: It would be difficult to overstate the importance of the president’s bold new plan to cope with climate change, through maximum use of his executive authority to by-pass GOP obstructionism.
Fairfax County School Board Elects Ilryong Moon as Chairman
The Fairfax County School Board has elected Ilryong Moon (at-large) as chairman and Tamara Derenak Kaufax (Lee District) as vice chairman for a one-year term. The chair and vice chair assumed office at the July 11 school board meeting; they are elected by board members during the board’s annual organizational meeting.
Virginia Voters Get More Choices in 2013
Northern Virginia has most two-party races on ballot.
While the Virginia governor’s race is the one getting the most attention, both nationally and in the state, Virginia’s House of Delegates race is shaping up to be the most competitive in a decade.
Food for Trees Program Honored
Rotary recognizes Vincent D'Avena with Business of the Year Award.
Vincent D'Avena, the owner of A.V. Remodeling & Construction, was awarded Rotary International District 7610's Business of the Year Award at their annual conference for his company’s annual holiday charity program, Food for Trees.
Kayaker Drowns at Great Falls
Potomac River gorge claims third victim in one month.
Shannon Christy, 23 of Greenville, S.C., died Thursday, July 11, kayaking the chutes of the Potomac River at Great Falls. Christy "disappeared while going down the falls and was pinned underneath the water for a period of time," according to Montgomery County Police Reports. Police were called at 4:17 p.m.
Virginia Voters Get More Choices in 2013
Northern Virginia has most two-party races on ballot.
While the Virginia governor’s race is the one getting the most attention, both nationally and in the state, Virginia’s House of Delegates race is shaping up to be the most competitive in a decade.
River Bend StingRays Set New Records
The Boys 15-18 200 Medley Relay Team of Julian Villacorta, Tommy Rogers, Pearce Bloom and Carter Bennett broke a 32-year-old Trump National record at last week's meet against Springfield Country Club with a time of 2:07.82.
Classified Advertising July 17, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Tuesday, July 16
Volunteers Needed for Great Falls Events
Celebrate Great Falls, Neighbors Foundation seek input for future events.
While the annual Fourth of July Parade and fireworks show have become integral to the traditions of Great Falls, longtime event organizers say they are worried about the future.
Thursday, July 11
Langley Grad Galiani to Play Soccer at Bucknell University
Galiani was also one of the top scoring threats on the Langley boys' basketball team.
Editorial: More Than Disclosure Needed for Virginia
Time for limits on campaign contributions as well.
At least until after November’s election, most candidates in Virginia seem to think that there should be some reform to Virginia’s campaign finance and disclosure rules. At least it seems likely that most will support expanding disclosure rules to require disclosure of gifts to immediate family members as well as candidates/officials.
Wednesday, July 10
Parading in Great Falls
Residents participating in the car portion of the parade lined up on Columbine, waiting eagerly for the event to start. Antique cars decorated in the stars and stripes are a staple in this annual celebration.
Great Falls Hosts Hometown Celebration on July 4
Annual 5K, parade, festival highlight holiday events.
One year ago, the annual Great Falls Fourth of July Hometown Celebration was a welcome respite from almost a week with no power for the Nelson family of Great Falls.
Neighbors Foundation Hosts Annual Fireworks Show at Turner Farm
Turner Farm is site of festivities Saturday, July 6.
More than 2,500 people gathered at Turner Farm Saturday, July 6, for the annual fireworks show held by the Neighbors Foundation.
Flower Baskets Return to Great Falls Village Centre
Seventy baskets placed around Great Falls.
For the second straight year, Great Falls businesses and individuals came together to place hanging flower baskets around the Great Falls Village Centre.
Tuesday, July 9
Petersen to Governor: Explain, Deny, Return or Resign
Petersen first Virginia legislator to suggest McDonnell resign over alleged wrongdoing in accepting gifts from prominent donor.
The tipping point for state Sen. J. Chap Petersen (D-34) was the $6,500 Rolex watch.
High School Seniors Celebrate Volunteering
The local Cherry Blossom Chapter of the National Charity League recognized its senior class of 2013 for their community service hours at a ceremony held recently at Westwood Country Club.
Letter: Concerts on the Green: Impossible to Enjoy
We could not agree more with Jan Heginbotham about the Concerts on the Green having become impossible to enjoy [“Concerts on the Green: Bad Habits on Display,” Great Falls Connection, June 26-July 2, 2013].
Letter: Human Trafficking in Our Backyard
I was ecstatic to learn of the progress local leaders like my delegate, Barbara Comstock (R-34), have made in raising awareness on human trafficking and sex trafficking right here in our backyard.
Monday, July 8
Terry McAulife Launches Healthcare Platform at Inova Alexandria Hospital
Affordable Care Act is a key point of distinction between candidates for governor.
Democratic candidate for governor Terry McAuliffe found himself in the emergency room this week, but it wasn't because of a medical crisis.
A Very Good Year in McLean, Great Falls Area
In the first half of 2013 all price points experienced a gain in number of sales.
The numbers have been tallied for real estate sales in the first half of 2013 and total sales are up over the same time period in 2012 in McLean and Great Falls by 7.6 percent.
Local Author to Speak at Senior Center August Event
One of World War II’s great air battles and the experiences of American bomber crews who fought it are the focus of the Great Falls Senior Center’s (GFSC) Aug. 6 event.
Selling Lemonade in Support of Purple Camps
Maya Chowdhary, 5, held a lemonade stand on July 4 in Great Falls to raise money for military children connected to the National Military Families Association (NMFA).
Spotting a Hummingbird in Great Falls
Jerry Hunter spotted a hummingbird on Kettle Pond Lane in Great Falls around noon Sunday, June 16.
Great Falls Swim & Tennis Hosts Fourth of July Party
Sheri Landfair and her lifeguards throw one of the most anticipated and underrated parties of the summer.
The Great Falls Swim & Tennis club celebrated America’s 237th birthday this past Thursday for the Fourth of July. On what has increasingly become the biggest event on the pool’s calendar over the past decade, patrons and lifeguards celebrated together for the 41st consecutive time.
Thursday, July 4
Classified Advertising July 3, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Hybrid Outrage at the Department of Motor Vehicles
Two legislators vow to introduce effort to repeal new tax on hybrid vehicles.
Suzanne Cleary has owned a hybrid vehicle since 2006, making her an early adopter and a proselytizer to her friends and neighbors.
Tuesday, July 2
NVTC Hosts Hot Ticket Awards
Annual awards recognize “hot” technology businesses.
Guests at the annual Northern Virginia Technology Council’s annual Hot Ticket Awards came dressed for a beach but weathered a brief summer storm Wednesday, June 26 in McLean.
Great Falls Native Goes ‘72 Hours’
Davina Friedlander tries for $100,000 on reality competition.
When Great Falls native Davina Friedlander got a chance to spend three days in Hawaii, it wasn’t exactly how she envisioned it. Instead of relaxing on a beach, sipping a drink and soaking up some rays, she fought hard to make it across the desolate, uninhabited sections of Lanai.
Column: Been There, Doing That
I.V. chemotherapy, that’s what; and I’m not infusing it for the fun of it, either.
Meatless Diet Could Prolong One’s Life
New study shows vegetarian and vegan diets could lower risk of untimely death
“The number one thing to do is to explore different types of vegetables. Think outside of green beans and corn.” — Bonita Lillie, registered dietician
Love after 50: Baby Boomers Need Romance Too
Couple chronicles their online dating experience in new book.
“Dating in your 60s is a lot different than dating in the 1960s, to be sure. Our message is one of hope and the courage to try one more time. Life is just too short.” — Mindy Mitchell, coauthor of “Lube of Life: A Tribute to Sex, Love and the Pursuit of Happiness in the Boomer Age”
When a Bill Becomes a Law
On July 1, sales taxes go up for Fairfax County residents.
“We needed to at least make it clear that you risk a reckless driving offense if you text and drive.” —Del. David Bulova (D-37)
Don't Be Afraid; Learn About Bees
Number of drones on the increase.
What Do You Know About Bees? How many bees in an ordinary colony (hive)? a) 1000 b) 10,000 c) 60,000 or more 2. Each colony has one queen. What happens if more than one is born? a) All but one is killed b) All but one is driven out c) The first one takes half the colony and relocates 3. The oldest bee ever found (preserved in a drop of amber) lived how many years ago? a) 1,000,000 b) 25,000,000 c) 100,000,000 4. Stingers release venom for a brief time. What to do on being stung? gently back out stinger with a fingernail or credit card apply ice for swelling c) both a and b 90% of bees are workers. Which gender? a) male female Which stinging insect is vegetarian? hornet bee wasp 7. At least how much honey a colony (hive) needs for winter? 10 pounds 60 pounds 100 pounds 8. Honey has flavors depending on the blossoms visited. What do beekeepers do with "bad tasting" honey? throw it out leave it for bees to eat 9. Normal gathering range of a bee? 500 yards one-half mile c) 2 miles (or more) 10. For millennia, honey has been used treating wounds? a) true b) false Answers; 1.c; 2.a; 3.c; 4.c; 5.b; 6.b; 7.b; 8.b; 9.c; 10.a. Grading correct answers: 9-10 = A; 7-8 = "bee"; 5-6 = C. Arlington Adult Education offers a class called "Help the Honeybees!" on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at the Arlington Career Center, in Walter Reed Drive near Columbia Pike. Hours are 7 to 10 p.m. and registration is $5. Beekeepers Association of Northern Virginia has a booth at the 2013 Arlington County Fair to be held in Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 2nd Street, South, Aug. 7 - 11. Bee products are judged at the Fair and many Are offered for sale. All the answers to all the possible questions about bees are found through that association's webpage: www.beekeepersnova.org
Let the Sparks Fly in the County
It’s not too late to enjoy local 4th of July festivals, parades and fireworks.
So. It’s July 4, 2013. Independence Day. A federal holiday celebrating our freedom from Great Britain. The National Day of the United States. And you have nothing planned.
Fourth of July Fun Facts
Information provided by Smithsonian Children’s Magazine press releases. For more trivia, go to newsdesk.si.edu. Joke courtesy of Elle Ross, 7, of Vienna.
Let the Sparks Fly
It’s not too late to enjoy local 4th of July festivals, parades and fireworks.
So. It’s July 4, 2013. Independence Day. A federal holiday celebrating our freedom from Great Britain. The National Day of the United States. And you have nothing planned.
Cross County Trail Renamed After Gerry Connolly
U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11) says he is humbled by the Fairfax County Park Authority's decision to rename the 40-mile Cross County Trail the “Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail."
Virginia Lyme Disease Bill Signed
On June 25, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell and other Northern Virginia lawmakers met at Claude Moore Park in Sterling for the ceremonial signing of the Lyme Disease Information Disclosure Act of 2013.
VVFD Auctions Date With Firefighter
Men and women of Vienna fire department fuel fundraiser.
“The idea, initially, made people [firefighters and EMTs] hesitant, but when they realized it wasn’t a real date, but actually a group dinner, we got a lot more interest and support from them.” - VVFD President Anthony Stancampiano
Governor Visits Express Lanes
Standing on the side of I-95 at the height of rush hour on Tuesday, June 25, Governor Bob McDonnell looked at the construction around him with optimism.
Week in Vienna
This week in Vienna, a water quality report becomes available.
Total Health Concepts Opens in Vienna
Local residents, current clients and friends celebrated the grand opening of Total Health Concepts of Vienna on June 8, enjoying a sampling of the company’s services, nutritious grilled food, and a moon bounce for youngsters.
Elevation Burger Takes the Hamburger Higher
New restaurant features grass-fed, free-range and organic beef.
There are hamburgers and then there are hamburgers freshly-ground from humanely-raised, grass-fed, free-range beef … it’s also USDA-certified organic.
AAA Tigers Win Championship
8-5 finals defeat of Royals is Tigers’ third straight win over higher seed.
The fifth seeded Vienna Little League (VLL) AAA Tigers shook off early jitters, controversial calls and a furious last inning comeback featuring a 3-run homer, to hold off the American League Champion Royals, 8-5 Friday before an exuberant crowd at Rhodes Field at Yeonis Park.
Viewpoints
Librarians: Favorite Time of the Year
Librarians tell why the Summer Reading Program is their favorite time of the year.
Summer Reading Starts in Vienna, Oakton Libraries
Children encouraged to enjoy books as leisure.
For many years, The Fairfax County Summer Reading Program has encouraged students to continuing reading through summer vacation.
Attracting Teens to Reading
Parents of teenagers may find it harder to encourage their children to read.
Time to Read in Great Falls, McLean
Summer reading programs at local libraries attract children and parents alike.
School may be out, but Fairfax County Public Libraries are hoping that doesn’t mean students will stop reading.
Week in McLean
This week in McLean features new and exciting events!
Gay Rogers Named ‘Friend in Deed’
The Friends of the McLean Community Center honor Rogers for her contributions to the center. The Friends of the McLean Community Center organization has named McLean resident Gay Rogers the recipient
The Friends of the McLean Community Center organization has named McLean resident Gay Rogers the recipient of its 2013 “Friend in Deed” award.
Lewinsville Road Trail Completed
Connector between Scotts Run Road and Windy Hill Road.
Residents of McLean are now enjoying a new asphalt trail, along Lewinsville Road between Scotts Run and Windy Hill Roads in McLean. Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville), community leaders and Fairfax County Departments of Transportation and Capital Facilities staff dedicated the new trail at an event held on June 24 at the corner of Scotts Run and Lewinsville Roads.
‘Damn Yankees’ Arrives at the Alden
McLean Community Players to present “a grand musical comedy.”
Where and When: McLean Community Players present "Damn Yankees" at the Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Performances July 12-28. Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18-$20. There is also a special $15 ticket offer. Call 703-790-9223 or visit www.mccleanplayers.org.
McLean Orchestra Proves ‘Instrumental to Business’
When your audience expresses their wild enthusiasm, what else can you do but give them an encore?
Week in Great Falls
This week in Great Falls is filled with new and exciting events!
Local Artist to Exhibit Beach Series At Katie’s Coffee House
Local artist Jane Rader will be exhibiting her “Beach Series” photographs at Katie’s Coffee House at 760 Walker Road in Great Falls during the month of July.
Summer Abundance Hits Great Falls Farmers Market
Local farmers offer an array of healthy, tasty, fresh produce.
Summer is upon us. Our bountiful “local” earth is birthing forth a stunning array of healthy, tasty, fresh produce for our nourishment and good health—just picked the day before they are brought to market.
Monday, July 1
Editorial: HOT-Lanes and No Metro for I-66?
Did you miss the public discussion and input? So did we.
One day when I was stuck in traffic on I-66, I was briefly entertained by the license plate of the vehicle in front of me. "66 SUCKS," it read. No question, commuting on I-66 is a bear.