Tuesday, March 31
Police Captain Graduates from FBI Academy
Captain Graham H. McGowan is the Fairfax County Police Department’s latest graduate of the FBI’s National Academy, which has just completed its 259th session.
Week in Herndon
Weekly happenings in the town of Herndon
Oak Hill Resident Performs 10 Months of National Service
Rubina Ellis of Oak Hill is one of 96 men and women that pledged to perform 10 months of national service as part of the Atlantic Region’s 21st Class of the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), an AmeriCorps program.
Fox Mill Elementary Welcomes Musicians From Japan
School hosts a concert from Aun-J Classic Orchestra, and performs at the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
On a morning not too long ago, students at Fox Mill Elementary School experienced an exciting opportunity to meet the members of Aun-J Classic Orchestra from Japan.
Girl Scouts Troop 3651 Raise Money for Honor Flights
Film and presentations explain the importance of getting veterans to Washington D.C. to see their monuments.
Girl Scout Troop 3651 organized a screening of the moving Honor Flight, and invited two World War II veterans, Howard Jester and George Hanna, to speak to the audience after the film.
Monday, March 30
Fairfax County School Board Votes Down Veterans Day School Holiday
Fairfax Station resident Steven Hunt, retired U.S. Navy, put it bluntly: “Votes count, words don’t.” That was following a vote in which all but two members of the Fairfax County School Board voted against an amendment to the 2015-2016 calendar that would have made Veterans Day a school holiday.
Friday, March 27
Editorial: Good, Bad and Ugly
A look at recently ended session of the Virginia General Assembly.
The 2015 session of the Virginia General Assembly came to an end last week, and some of the biggest news was about what it did not do.
Thursday, March 26
Weekend Fun in Fairfax County - March 27-29, 2015
A roundup of entertaining things to do this weekend.
A roundup of fun things to do this weekend in Fairfax county.
West Springfield High School Hosts Job and Opportunity Fair
Robinson graduate Jackson Muse was looking for some professional direction. Currently a junior political science major at Shepherd University in West Virginia, he’s worked at Barnes & Noble but is potentially interested in counseling for the Fairfax County Park Authority, or helping open the new Wegmans at Hilltop Village Center.
Wednesday, March 25
Perennial Power Chantilly Boys’ Lax Teaches Lesson to Herndon
Hornets goalkeeper Mach plays well in defeat.
The Chantilly boys' lacrosse team beat Herndon 10-1 on Monday.
Column: Health Matters More
I realize money doesn’t buy happiness, although I wouldn’t mind renting it.
Tuesday, March 24
Week in Herndon
Weekly happenings in Herndon.
Herndon Potter’s Fire Helps Scholarship Program
Pottery business makes contribution for military scholarship program.
The Herndon based business Potter's Fire has donated $10,500 in handmade pottery to be auctioned off at Bootlegger Bash for the Fort Campbell Spouses Club on March 20.
Floris United Methodist Church Presents $40,000 to Support Cornerstones Rapid Re-Housing
Floris United Methodist Church (Floris UMC) in Herndon really knows how to keep the Christmas spirit going, long after the last of the decorations have been put away, the tinsel has disappeared from the carpet, and you’ve finally gotten “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” out of your head.
Virginia Housing Expo Draws Crowds
Home-ownership, rental opportunities and related services dominate the event at Herndon High.
“Those most in need of these services and resources benefit the most when we can bring so many providers and organizations together in this one-stop shop format.”
Fairfax County Students Win Science Awards
Students from across the county recognized at 60th Annual Fairfax County Regional Science And Engineering Fair.
High school students from Fairfax County schools attended the annual regional science fair held at Robinson Secondary School in Fairfax, March 20-22, to compete for prizes and recognition.
Letter: A Cornerstone in Danger
Letter to the Editor:
We are a community that values education. We’re known nationwide for our world-class education system. And for good reason: with outstanding teachers, motivated students, and active leadership, we have every right to take pride in the top-tier education that our community has asked for.
Emotional Beginning for Fairfax County Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission
While several other members of the recently created Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission stated their general intent to listen and learn and help, Salvatore Culosi had a more specific request.
Friday, March 20
First Meeting Scheduled for Ad Hoc Police Commission
With endorsement, albeit non-unanimous, from the Board of Supervisors, the ad hoc commission organized by Board Chairman Sharon Bulova to review Fairfax County Police Department practices will hold its first meeting March 23.
Special Enrollment Period for Affordable Care Act Open
NVFS and Healthworks are resources for area residents through April 30.
Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) will be providing free enrollment assistance and educational material to Virginia families and individuals that qualify for the Affordable Care Act Special Enrollment Period from March 15-April 30.
Weekend Fun in Fairfax County March 20-22, 2015
A roundup of entertaining things to do this weekend.
A roundup of entertaining things to do this weekend.
Commentary: Investing in Families Strengthens Communities
Letter to the Editor
The Fairfax County proposed $7.13 billion budget for fiscal year 2016 comes at devastating cost for the most vulnerable families in our community. Included in the budget is the complete elimination of Healthy Families, a nationally recognized, evidence-based child abuse and neglect prevention program that serves hundreds of at-risk families.
Thursday, March 19
Oak Hill and Herndon Home Sales: February, 2015
In February, 2015, 55 homes sold between $1,120,000-$190,000 in the Oak Hill and Herndon area.
Oak Hill and Herndon Home Sales: February, 2015
Town of Herndon Hosts TEDx at NextStop Theatre
NextStop Theatre in the Town of Herndon hosted a TEDx event on Saturday, March 14. In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) is a global set of conferences run by the private nonprofit Sapling Foundation, under the slogan "Ideas Worth Spreading."
Students From Around Fairfax County Recognized for Promoting Peace
After a friend of South County High School senior Sakira Coleman was sexually assaulted while running on a local public path, Coleman decided to take action and started the “Fight for Your Right to Run at Night” program.
First Meeting Set for Fairfax County Police Commission
With endorsement, albeit non-unanimous, from the Board of Supervisors, the ad hoc commission organized by board chairman Sharon Bulova to review Fairfax County Police Department practices will hold its first meeting March 23.
Wednesday, March 18
Reston Teacher Mary Anne Rossbach Named Virginia Math Educator of the Year
The nominees come from all over the Commonwealth of Virginia, but it was Mary Anne Rossbach, a sixth grade teacher from Sunrise Valley Elementary School in Reston, who accepted the 2015 William C. Lowry Mathematics Educator of the Year award on Saturday, March 7 at a dinner ceremony in Virginia Beach.
Herndon's NextStop Theatre Produces 'The Secret Garden'
The beloved novel, “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett, has been transformed into a musical that will be gracing the stage at NextStop Theatre. It is “a joyful, entertaining story about the enduring power of love, through all obstacles and across all boundaries,” said Evan Hoffmann, director of the NextStop production.
Herndon Election Changed for Good
Herndon's next town election will take place Nov. 8, 2016.
Arthur Nachman told Herndon's Town Council that their actions after Tuesday's council hearing would be just as important to the Town's future as their vote Tuesday night, March 10.
Vienna: Hot-Handed Bethel too Much for Oakton
Cougars fall in 6A girls' basketball state semifinals.
The Oakton girls' basketball team ended its season with a 27-2 record.
Column: Money Matters
It always does, and there always are; especially if you have to work for a living and cancer is a part of that living.
Tuesday, March 17
Leadership Fairfax Hosts Supervisors Breakfast
State of the County Address, supervisors’ questions and an award ceremony top the agenda.
The agenda and the speakers have to be of significant interest to get some 300 people to brave local traffic and attend a meeting that started at 7:30 a.m. Leadership Fairfax (LFI) apparently succeeded in offering both in the ballroom of the Fairview Park Marriott on Friday morning, March 13, hosting its 24th Annual Board of Supervisors Breakfast.
The Right Fit: Choosing a Summer Camp
How parents can ensure positive summer experiences for their children.
Though the official start of spring is still days away and the frigidity of winter is still recent on the minds of many, Janelle Wright, a Potomac, Md., mother of two, has already mapped out the summer for her children.
Editorial: On Police Information and Secrecy
Time for change in public access to police information.
The first meeting of the Fairfax County Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission will take place next Monday, March 23, and it comes with hope for real change.
Friday, March 13
Utility Player: Giving Her All
Herndon’s Rotary Club names Lisa Lombardozzi Citizen of the Year.
For the next three to four weeks, Lisa Lombardozzi will have one eye on spring training in Florida. Lombardozzi’s nephew, Stephen Paul Lombardozzi Jr., a former Washington National and former Baltimore Oriole, is fighting to earn a spot on the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Thursday, March 12
Home Improvements Earn Remodeling Awards
Four Sun Design remodeling projects named Washington-area “Contractor of the Year” winners.
It’s been a good year for Sun Design Remodeling. In January, the full-service design/build remodeler won four “Contractor of the Year” awards from the Washington, D.C. chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Then, in February, an already locally-honored gourmet kitchen was named category best (“kitchen above $150k”) in the 10-state southeastern region.
Luxury Apartments Popping Up All Over Northern Virginia
Renters want resort-like amenities and access to transportation.
After a long, hard day at work, Jordan Coleman comes home to a large apartment with modern amenities, including a 24-hour concierge, ample living space, a state–of-the-art fitness center and a pool. The apartment features high-end appliances and finishes as well as an open, flowing layout and large walk-in closets. Coleman – a lawyer and Capitol Hill staffer – shares the pricey rent with a friend. The complex is owned by Avalon, which has properties in Arlington, Fairfax, Herndon, Falls Church, Tysons Corner and Vienna, Virginia, as well as Bethesda, Maryland, and Washington.
Historic Virginia in Gardens
This year’s tour includes a rare private look at special properties in Fairfax County, Old Town Alexandria and Leesburg.
The Virginia Historic Garden Tour is an 8-day event that stretches across the Commonwealth. Each spring visitors are welcomed to over 250 of Virginia's most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks.
Centreville Clock Tower Thrift Shop Now Offering Consignment
Northern Virginia Family Service is now offering furniture consignment at its Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Centreville at 6301 Centreville Crest Lane, between Advance Auto Parts and Minnieland Academy.
Herndon’s Rotary Club Names Lisa Lombardozzi Citizen of the Year
For the next three to four weeks, Lisa Lombardozzi will have one eye on spring training in Florida.
Herndon Gymnast Bradley Competes at State Meet
Herndon sophomore Alexa Bradley competed at the VHSL individual state gymnastics meet on March 8.
Wednesday, March 11
Promoting STEM, Hands-on
Sen. Tim Kaine and Virginia Secretary of Education Holton headline K-12 STEM Symposium at the Nysmith School in Herndon.
With Fairfax County police officers directing the line of cars and the pedestrians crossing EDS Drive from the overflow parking lot, you would be forgiven if you thought all this activity was because of a sold out rock concert or championship sporting event. What was taking place, however, was much more important than any type of entertainment.
Letter: There is No ‘Away’
Letter to the Editor
To the Editor: I am dismayed by what my neighbors' put out for "trash." Yes, we all know about Goodwill, Purple Heart, various organizations that collect clothing, kitchen gadgets and other items.
Herndon High Students Recognized in Art and Writing Competition
The following Herndon High School’s students had winning artwork in 2015 Scholastic Art and Writing Competition Award.
Herndon High School Robotics Team Earns High Marks
erndon High School’s sister robotics team, Epsilon Delta Too, was one of the top finishers at the FIRST Tech Challenge Virginia Championship held in Richmond on Saturday, Feb. 28. Coach Robert Simmons, who has been with the team for three years, said that junior Kenneth Lin, the team’s leader, wanted the team to be a model team in the area.
Column: How Lucky Am I
You’ll note there’s no question mark after the “I.”
Friday, March 6
Day of Celebration: Homeless No More in Fairfax
The first residents move into Kate’s Place.
Kate’s Place consists of six apartments for extremely low-income and formerly homeless families. And to the mothers and children who just moved in, the homes are more than a roof over their heads — they’re a lifeline.
Thursday, March 5
Tom Rust to Retire from General Assembly
Rust improved life for Herndon, and for Virginia, say many.
Right after she was elected mayor, Lisa Merkel invited Del. Tom Rust to lunch. “I said, ‘How do you get things done?’ He said, ‘You have a vision and you stick with it and you keep pressing ahead,’” Merkel said. “It was a great lunch.”
Rewind, Replay, or Redo?
November Town Election? Additional public hearing set for March 10.
The majority was not enough for Councilmember Steve Mitchell. Mitchell believes the change to move Herndon’s election to the fall needs to be decided by referendum not the Council. “Personally, I do not believe this decision should be made with the support of only four councilmembers,” Mitchell said during last week’s Town Council meeting Feb. 24. “I urge this Council to move this to referendum so we can have all of our citizens' voices heard.”
Fairfax County hosts first Inmate Resource Fair.
They’re hoping the third time will be a charm: 34-year-old Demeterius Spann of the Richmond Highway area of Alexandria and 29-year-old Nydale Sheppard of Reston have each been incarcerated three times.
Wednesday, March 4
Ballet Display at Reston Community Center
Classical Ballet Theatre wows audience with choreography.
At Reston Community Center, the Classical Ballet Theatre (CBT) presented “An Evening with Classical Ballet Theatre” on Friday, Feb. 13. The show was a combination of both contemporary and classical ballet, and included original choreography by guest artists and CBT faculty as well as audience favorites.
New Art Exhibits to Open in Reston and Herndon
Local artwork to be on display.
Many residents of Fairfax County have an appreciation for various mediums of visual and preforming art. Several nonprofits within the Reston and Herndon area, including ArtSpace Herndon located on Center Street and the Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) have helped showcase local artwork, and as some exhibits close, new displays will soon open.
Special Screening of Honor
Film screening March 16 to help WWII veterans travel to their monument.
The Honor Flight Network transports aging veterans to visit memorials built in Washington D.C. in their honor.
Column: Sole-Searching
There’s no denying the emotional fact that the CT Scan results I received and wrote about last week were a bit of a disappointment.