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!
Hinds Feet Ministries Celebrates 15 Years of Service to Liberia
Local nonprofit performs outreach to Liberia.
Trypetus Cooper Padmore spent her formative years living around the world. A native of Liberia, she spent time in Great Britain and the United Stated during her school years. She left Liberia with her family after the military coup in 1980.
Cindy’s Legacy to Host 2nd Annual Golf Clinic
Nonprofit supports families and patients affected by cancer.
Cindy’s Legacy, a nonprofit dedicated to providing services for families affected by cancer, will host its second annual golf clinic at the Herndon Centennial Golf Course Friday, Aug. 9.
Herndon Town Calendar Photos Chosen
Local photographers recognized at ArtSpace.
The walls of ArtSpace Herndon are currently decorated with almost 60 photos of Herndon’s signature moments. From large events such as the Herndon festival, to the simple pleasure of two children holding hands on a brisk fall day, local photographers submitted their shots for inclusion in the town’s annual calendar.
Roosters Men's Grooming Opens at Franklin Farm Village
Roosters Men’s Grooming Center (MGC) opened Monday, July 29, at 13346B Franklin Farm Road in the Franklin Farm Village Shopping Center.
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.
Weichert, Realtors Recognizes Reston/Herndon Top Representative
The Reston/Herndon office was recognized for outstanding performance in June, according to Bruce L. Green, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors.
Miniature Horses Parade at Frying Pan
Miniature Horse Club Show held at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon.
From Friday, July 19 to Sunday, July 21 the Old Dominion Miniature Horse Club met at Frying Pan Farm Park’s equestrian center in Herndon for their Summer Sizzle club show.
Summer Fun Camps Continue in Herndon
The Summer Fun Camps are held outdoors at Bready Park and indoors at the Herndon Community Center.
At the end of June, the Herndon Summer Fun Camps began operations at Herndon Community Center, with Harriet Van De Riet and a team of trained counselors directing. “All of our counselors have enrolled in college,” said Van De Riet.
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.
Quilt Show Displays ‘Sacred Threads’
Some 231 handmade quilts exploring themes of spirituality, joy, inspiration, peace/brotherhood, grief and healing were displayed during the biennial Sacred Threads exhibition, July 10-28, at Floris United Methodist Church in Oak Hill.
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.
Sharing in Ramadan
9th annual Ramadan Herndon Without Hunger aids locals in need.
The Stock Market has been posting record highs. Homes in the local market have been selling in less than two weeks, sometimes for more than asking price—rising numbers that constantly make the news, all while another less publicized statistic about our area has also risen: the number of families in need, like those who attend the Herndon Without Hunger (HWH) food distribution that takes place during the holy month of Ramadan.
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
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.
Nell and Magic
People and Pets
Don and Linda Rutledge sent us these pictures of their cat Nell, waiting to be served, and her brother, Magic, enjoying the pillow. They are 3 years old and are from the Fancy Cat Rescue in Herndon.
Color on the Walls, Indoor and Out
ArtSpace Herndon recently drew 160 patrons into its galleries with the "It's a Matter of Color" exhibit artists reception and the Art in the Windows dedication of public art on the outdoor walls of the building.
Week in Herndon
Town of Herndon Receives Aaa Rating Moody’s Investors Service has moved the rating outlook to stable and affirmed the Aaa rating on four states and 37 local governments, including the Town of Herndon. This follows the move to a stable outlook on the federal government’s Aaa rating, which occurred on July 18.
Andrew and Jonathan Lohmann Receive Eagle Scout Award
Andrew and Jonathan Lohmann, members of Boy Scout Troop 51, celebrated receiving their Eagle Scout award on June 9 at an Eagle Court of Honor ceremony at Floris United Methodist Church in Herndon.
Meet Herndon’s ‘Best Friends’
People and Pets
Mia Bollerer, 7, has a fluffy white guinea pig named Anderson, whose name, she says, “starts with an ‘A’ because he is so awesome!” She got Anderson on the day of the presidential election last year and remembers that she spent her first night with Anderson sitting on the couch with her family while watching the news.
Herndon High to Present ‘Bye Bye Birdie’
Performances set for July 26, 27 and 28.
The Grand Musical Theatre Experience returns to Herndon High School in July this year with a production of the musical “Bye Bye Birdie.” Last year, the production was of the musical “Oliver Twist,” which was a tremendous success.
Meet Lucy
People and Pets
My name is Lucinda (Lucy for short). I'm a Haflinger mare and work at Spirit Open Equestrian. All our volunteers think I'm really cute.
To the Editor: 86th Omitted
I was pleased to see all the various Virginia candidates that you listed in an article in your last edition (“Virginia Voters Get More Choices in 2013,” July 17-23). Virginia voters certainly have many choices this coming November.
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.
Obituary: Dr. Thomas Wilkins Dies at 83
For more than 40 years, Wilkins worked to better lives of those around Reston.
When Dr. Thomas Wilkins moved to Reston in 1969, he said he did so because it was “an island of equality in a sea of inequality.” Wilkins passed away Saturday, July 20 at the age of 83, having spent 44 years trying to make Reston a stronger community.
Lake Anne Goes to the Dogs for Charity Dog Wash
Annual Dogtopia charity wash raises funds to train service dogs.
Trina Shaughnessy was with her dog Macro on their usual Sunday afternoon walk on North Shore Drive last weekend, when she heard an unmistakable sound coming from Lake Anne Plaza.
Metro Silver Line Delayed
MWAA announces at least an eight-week delay in passenger service.
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority announced an approximately eight-week delay in the completion of Phase One of the Silver Line.
Town Examines Herndon Parkway-Van Buren Street Intersection Improvements
Public comment open on three options for Herndon Parkway and Van Buren Street intersection.
The Town of Herndon hosted a public comment meeting Wednesday, July 17, to solicit suggestions on improvements for the intersection of Herndon Parkway and Van Buren Street.
Mellow Mushroom Opens in Herndon
Pizza bakers offer wide selection of craft beer, pizzas, veggie and gluten free options.
Members of the Herndon Town Council and business community, not to mention those interested in a good pizza pie, were on hand for the opening of Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers on Elden Street Monday, July 22.
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 Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill and Herndon
In May 2013, 140 homes sold between $1,600,000-$197,000 in the Vienna and Oakton area. 148 Reston homes sold between $1,655,000-$110,733 and 148 homes sold between $1,330,000-$150,000 in the Herndon
Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill and Herndon
Thursday, July 18
Oak Hill, Herndon Home Sales: June, 2013
In June 2013, 123 homes sold between $1,340,000-$165,000 in the Herndon and Oak Hill area.
Oak Hill, Herndon Home Sales: June, 2013
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
Reston, Herndon Teachers Attend Williamsburg Workshops on American History
Seven social studies teachers in area schools have been selected to attend the 2013 Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute in American History. One of them had to decline at the last minute due to a family medical issue.
Week in Herndon
Officers responded to a report of a stabbing in the 2100 block of Astoria Avenue shortly after 2 a.m. Wednesday, July 10.
Herndon Olympics Swim Meet Was a Splashing Success
Three records broken at this year’s meet attended by Olympic gold medalist Josh Davis.
The 34th annual Herndon Olympics was held last Tuesday, July 9. Hundreds of swimmers from nine local swim teams competed, allowing the community to come together to encourage young athletes, support local businesses and to meet Olympic gold medalist Josh Davis.
Viewpoints
"This is where the dreams begin."
Josh Davis, who won three gold medals at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta and two silver medals at the Olympics in Sydney in 2000, said about the Herndon event: “This is where dreams begin and champions are made as they take pride representing their neighborhood and their city. … Of the 4,000 summer league swim championships going on this month, this is one of the best ones in the country.”
A Spirit Tested
Elden Street Players to present “Caroline, or Change.”
Fifty years ago Sam Cooke sang, "It's been a long time coming, but I know a change gon' come. Oh yes it will." It was the time of the civil rights movement and the assassination of President Kennedy.
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.
Gun Control Vigil Continues
Every month, supporters of gun regulation hold a vigil outside of the NRA headquarters to honor the victims of shootings, as well as urge Congress to take action. The vigil takes place on the 14th of every month, which is the date of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting.
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.
Classified Advertising July 17, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Tuesday, July 16
Reston Nature House Hosts Energy Fair
Alternative energy on display at Reston fair.
Environmental enthusiasts from Reston and beyond gathered at the Walker Nature Education Center Sunday, July 14, for the first Reston Energy Fair.
Town of Herndon Awards Contracts for Downtown Work
Improvements will be along Station Street and Pine Street.
The Herndon Town Council awarded contracts for two major downtown projects at their Tuesday, July 9 meeting. The first project will underground utilities along Station Street.
Ukulele Festival Comes to Lake Anne
Fourth annual Northern Virginia Ukulele Festival features variety of acts.
Lake Anne welcomed hundreds of ukulele enthusiasts Saturday, July 13 for the fourth annual Northern Virginia Ukulele Festival. For Heath Murphy of Reston, it was a chance to embrace his budding hobby.
Thursday, July 11
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
Town Calendar Exhibit Opens at ArtSpace Herndon
ArtSpace Herndon has opened the annual Town of Herndon Calendar Exhibit, featuring finalists from the 2014 Town of Herndon Calendar Competition. “It is a good show, the quality of these photos is great,” said ArtSpace Director Dale McGrath.
W&OD Trail Lighting Proposed for Town of Herndon
Project would light 3,800 feet of trail within town borders.
The Town of Herndon’s Department of Parks and Recreation will begin to seek public comment on a proposal to light a 3,800- foot section of the W&OD Trail.
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.
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.
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.
IPAR Unveils Latest Project at Reston Hyatt
Aluminum statue to be placed in front of Hyatt at Reston Town Center.
The Initiative for Public Art-Reston gave a preview of its latest project Wednesday, June 26, with a presentation of the sculpture that will soon be placed in the park across from the Hyatt Regency Reston in Reston Town Center.
Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce Presents Annual ACE Awards
Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce swears in new board.
The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce welcomed a new board and handed out their annual ACE Awards at the Sheraton Reston Thursday, June 27.
Shelter House Presents Changing Lives Awards
Awards given to individuals and organizations, new board sworn in. jumphead
Shelter House, a Herndon-based nonprofit that serves those affected by homelessness and domestic abuse, held their annual awards ceremony and welcomed a new board Tuesday, June 25.
Senator Tim Kaine Tours Downtown Herndon
Senator speaks to residents, officials, business owners.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D) took a tour of downtown Herndon Friday, June 28, visiting a variety of local businesses.
Herndon Hosts Second Battle of Bottles
Two neighborhoods compete to see who recycles more in July.
Herndon residents will battle it out for the second straight year in an attempt to be more environmentally friendly. The second annual Battle of the Bottles will challenge residents of Four Seasons and Hunters Creek to see who can recycle more.
Reston Lions Install New Officers
Vice District Governor of District 24 A installed the new officers of the Reston Lions Club at its installation banquet on June 26 at the Hidden Creek Country Club in Reston.
Commentary:The Meaning of the American Revolution
In May I attended the cornerstone dedication for the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
South Lakes Seniors Make Reston Proud
On June 6, I had occasion to go to South Lakes High School, the Alma Mater of our three children, to witness the 2013 South Lakes Seniors Awards Ceremony.
Fourth of July Trivia
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 in Reston and Herndon
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.
Children ‘Dig Into Reading’ in Herndon, Reston Libraries
Fairfax County Public Library launches summer reading program.
Upcoming Events: Herndon Fortnightly Library *Monday, July 8, at 10:30 a.m.—Children’s Science Center: Fun, hands-on science experiments come to you. Cosponsored by the Friends of George Mason Regional Library. Age 6-12
Week in Herndon
This week in Herndon features fresh, exciting news!
Volunteering on 10th Annual Bill Rouse Day of Caring
Liberty Property Trust in Herndon was closed Friday, June 21, along with all 22 of Liberty offices in the US and UK for a day for community service projects in memory of its founder, Bill Rouse.
Volkswagen Passat Celebrates World Record in Herndon
On June 24, Volkswagen of America announced it set a new Guinness World Records achievement for the “lowest fuel consumption—48 U.S. states for a non-hybrid car” category with 77.99 mpg.
Jimmy’s Tavern in Herndon to Expand
On June 14, Jimmy’s Tavern in downtown Herndon had the lease renewed for 10 more years during the intermission at the Herndon Friday Night Live event.
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.
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.