Thursday, October 31
Clinton, McAuliffe Come to Herndon
Former President Bill Clinton and gubernatorial hopeful Terry McAuliffe came to Herndon Middle School for an Oct. 28 election event. Clinton is spending several days in Virginia campaigning with McAuliffe.
Letter: Strongly Opposed to Cutting Food Aid
Last week, Elizabeth Berry wrote a letter expressing concern over a bill passed by the House of Representatives that would cut food aid for nearly 3.8 million people, and asked that I oppose this legislation. I strongly oppose it. The cuts recommended by the House would eliminate free school meals for 280,000 children and aggravate an already difficult situation for many families in Virginia struggling to put food on the table. We must protect nutrition assistance programs because it’s our responsibility to ensure the neediest among us have access to food when times are hardest.
Editorial: Vote Nov. 5 or Before
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5.
For voters in Virginia, it is hard to overstate how important it is to go out and vote next week. All Virginia voters will see statewide races for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general, plus one delegate race. In addition, there are a few local races in Alexandria and Arlington, a bond question in Fairfax County and a referendum question about the housing authority in Arlington.
Column: Excuse Me, Pardon Me, Excuse Me…
If it wasn’t a coincidence, it was the next thing to being one. What it was, was the hiccups; occurring after chemotherapy infusion number one and again after chemotherapy number two. The first episode lasted only a few days and annoyed my wife, Dina, way more than it annoyed me. The first hiccuping episode was fairly constant; however it was not exhausting – and I wasn’t having any trouble sleeping because of them. Nor was I making any disturbing sounds or having any difficulty breathing – when caught in mid-hiccup, and/or eating because of the herky-jerky movements/spasms of my diaphragm. In general, it was a fairly benign effect. In the big picture, it didn’t seem particularly important that it was the hiccups I was having, so I never called my oncologist. It was the hiccups after all. It might as well have been a skinned knee. Jeez. And sure enough, within a couple of days, I was “hiccuped out.”
Sheriff’s Race Heats Up
Kincaid, Wolfe trade barbs over guns, vandalism.
Like many of her neighbors, Vienna resident Jane Li said she didn’t know Fairfax County had a sheriff’s department until a few weeks ago.
Voters to Decide on $250 Million Bond
On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Fairfax County voters will be asked to approve a $250 million school bond. If approved, the schools plan to use the money to:
Making Voters Feel Welcome, No Matter Their Language
County election officials have stepped up outreach efforts and volunteer recruitment efforts.
“I was touched with the Korean community’s efforts to help us translate materials and provide volunteers. … And so we're trying to encourage other pockets. My next target is Vietnamese. We’ve also printed recruitment brochures in Farsi, Arabic, Chinese Korean, French, and Spanish.” — Cameron Quinn, Fairfax County’s chief elections officer
Potomac Marlins 'Swim Pink'
Volunteers and swimmers from the Potomac Marlins gathered at the Lee District Recreation Center in their “Swim Pink” attire for their fundraiser meet, the PVS October Open Saturday, Oct. 19. The Potomac Marlins conduct this annual fundraiser to raise funds for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation, a nonprofit working to put an end to breast cancer.
Week in Fairfax
Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, Nov. 3, at 2 a.m. So before bedtime Saturday night, set back the time on all those clocks, watches and electronic devices one hour.
Letter: Vote ‘Yes’ on the School Bond
I am writing to help inspire your readers to vote “yes” on the 2013-2014 Fairfax County School bond referendum on Nov. 5th. If you vote yes you are supporting prudent reinvestment of money back into our world class school system that helps attract new businesses to Fairfax County, one of the best places to live and work in the U.S. Delaying capital improvements will result in a lower quality education to a growing student population. Our children deserve to have excellent facilities, resources and a highly educated and talented staff so they can be successful through college and in their working years.
Letter: Taking Exception
“Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts.” That sage advice from four-term Democrat Sen. Moynihan trumps the quote from Santayana with which Rep. Gerry Connolly opened his tendentious Oct. 24 piece in the Connection. “The Damage Is Already Done,” your headline for Connolly’s bile-filled essay better describes his tenure on our county’s Board of Supervisors and in Congress.
Letter: School Bond Referendum—a Critical Yes
I am writing to encourage all Fairfax County residents to vote “yes” on the school bond referendum appearing on the Nov. 5 ballot. These critical bonds are the primary funding source for the construction and renovation of our schools as well as an essential investment in the heart of our community.
Local Mom Wins $2,529 for Twins’ Education
A local mother of 16-year-old twins has won $2,529 for her children’s college education from the Virginia529 College Savings Plan (Virginia529). Diane Alejandro of Fairfax received the prize for entering Virginia529’s “Turning Dreams into Reality” contest that was part of September’s College Savings Month celebrations.
Teen Safe Driving Program Visits Inova
Representatives from the Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program managed by the Ford Motor Company Fund, Ford’s philanthropic arm, stopped by Inova Children's Hospital on Wednesday, Oct. 2 to highlight with leadership and staff some of the main causes of car crashes involving teenagers, including inexperience and distracted driving. Those in attendance also got to hear personal stories from those that work in the trauma unit who regularly witness the outcomes of these types of crashes.
Donating From the Heart
Redskin, pizza-chain owner team up to help local girl.
“Somebody helped me, so I’m happy to have the opportunity to help someone else and continue the cycle.” —Washington Redskin Pierre Garçon
Halloween Fun at Goblin Gallop
The 20th annual Goblin Gallop was Sunday, Oct. 27, at Fairfax Corner.
Two Challenge Filler-Corn in 41st District
Del. Eileen Filler-Corn challenged by Republican Fredy A. Burgos, Independent Christopher F. DeCarlo in the 41st district.
The House of Delegates has legislative power, with the Senate, to enact laws. Delegates serve a 2-year term and are eligible for re-election. The salary is $17,640 per year. A delegate must be at least 21 years old at the time of election and be a resident of the district he/she seeks to represent.
Delegate—37th District
Republican Patrice Winter is challenging Democratic incumbent David Bulova in the 37th district.
As a health care provider, I have seen how Affordable Care Act has affected patients and even how companies are doing business. Seeing Virginians have access to high-quality and affordable health care is a top priority.
Robinson Student Stars in Children’s Show
The Alliance Theatre presents “The Little Mermaid Jr.”
Ariel, Prince Eric, Flounder, Sebastian the crab and all the other characters from the popular story and movie are in The Alliance Theatre’s production of “The Little Mermaid Jr.” And a Robinson Secondary student has one of the starring roles. Performances are Nov. 9-24 (see box for details) at Mountain View High School, 5775 Spindle Court (behind Glory Days Grill) in Centreville. The musical features 10 adults and 35 students in grades three through 12, and Director Maggie Swan says they’re all really talented.
Democrats Lead in Polls as Voters Head to the Polls for Election Day
Hotly contested race for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general.
Democrats have the wind at their backs heading into Election Day next week, as Republican gubernatorial candidates Ken Cuccinelli struggles to overcome a deficit in the polls.
Wednesday, October 30
Commentary: Dollars and Sense—Stewardship of FCPS
As many have become aware, the Fairfax County School Board’s budget discussions for the 2015 fiscal year have begun early. It is unfortunate that it has taken a combination of a $140 million deficit and demonstrable efforts by FCPS’ new Superintendent Karen Garza to bring full attention of the stakeholders, including the School Board, to education policy and funding.
Thursday, October 24
Week in Fairfax
Candle Causes House Fire
A house fire early Sunday morning in the Fairfax Center area displaced three people and caused an estimated $250,000 damage. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a single-family townhouse at 1181 Laurel Lake Square, on Oct. 20, around 3:20 a.m.
City of Fairfax Band to Present ‘Tell Me a Story’
Oct. 26 concert aims to engage more of the community.
To kick off the holiday season for the City of Fairfax Band, director Robert Pouliot chose an exciting program of pieces that all “tell a story” for the ensemble’s Saturday, Oct. 26, concert at Fairfax High School.
The Lamb Center—A Welcoming Oasis
The Lamb Center holds a memorial service celebrating three lives.
Like so many of us who have similar stories, Walter Joback graduated from college, became an engineer, married and raised a family. However, things changed in 2001 when he became unemployed and health issues defined who he became. Friends said he was a kind and gentle man with a passion for what he believed in. He passed away on Oct. 3 from a stroke and was found in the woods in Fairfax City where he had been sleeping nights. Walter had been a guest at the Lamb Center since 2002. Like Walter, Jeanne O’Neill Pearson, a wife and mother, and Johnny “Noodles” Rossettos also had life-altering events and were guests of the Lamb Center, where they became part of their family. They also passed away recently.
Teen Safe Driving Program Visits Inova
Representatives from the Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program managed by the Ford Motor Company Fund, Ford’s philanthropic arm, stopped by Inova Children's Hospital on Wednesday, Oct. 2 to highlight with leadership and staff some of the main causes of car crashes involving teenagers, including inexperience and distracted driving. Those in attendance also got to hear personal stories from those that work in the trauma unit who regularly witness the outcomes of these types of crashes.
‘As Long As I’m Able to Run … ’
Telford preps for Marine Corps Marathon and “Over the Edge.”
BethAnn Telford has a brain tumor, but it doesn’t have her. Through the pain, the medication, the bad days and the setbacks, she not only keeps on going, she rises above it all and shines.
Fairfax Marching Rebels Win Band Competitions
The school year has barely started and already Fairfax High’s Marching Rebels band is winning top honors for its musicianship and showmanship in competitions against other schools.
History Recreated
Giving history new life through historical simulations at Robinson Secondary.
Students experienced a blast to the past when they took part in historical simulations of factory work in the 1900s. On Monday, Oct. 21, seventh graders at Robinson Secondary School engaged in an activity created by their history and social studies teachers reflecting their studies of the Industrial Revolution. “The idea of any simulation is to give the students an emotional experience on which we can then connect the content knowledge to develop true understanding of historic events,” says Susan Reade, history and social studies teacher at Robinson Secondary. “For this specific event … we attempt to focus student attention on low pay, long hours doing a repetitive task, and dehumanizing treatment of the employees.”
Classified Advertising October 23, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Editorial: Halloween Party Safety Net
Make plans for a safe celebration; SoberRide safety net for those over 21.
Halloween is now a major holiday for adults, especially young adults, and also one of the major holidays each year that involve partying with alcohol and the risks of drinking and driving.
Forum Highlights Domestic Violence
Cook holds gathering to “Stop the Silence—End the Violence.”
Oct. 17. The back patio at Kilroy’s Restaurant and Sports Bar on Port Royal Road in Springfield was the scene of a gathering described by host Fairfax County Supervisor John C. Cook (R- Braddock), as “part of an effort to shine the light on the oft-hidden and denied blight on our families … of domestic violence.” Cook was appointed by the Board of Supervisors in February to be their liaison to the Domestic Violence Prevention, Policy and Coordinating Council. “The name may be a mouthful,” admitted Cook in an interview during the event, “but the people you need to get things done are all right in the room,” he said. “This group gets things done.”
Wednesday, October 23
Halloween Fun Helps Those in Need
Tysons restaurant to host pumpkin carving event to raise money for local food bank.
Few things say Halloween like a carved pumpkin. Whether they’re smiling orbs on a front porch or eerie candlelit gourds in windowsills, jack-o-lanterns are an iconic symbol of Halloween. This weekend, however, the rib-skinned fall squash will also symbolize charity. A group of children get a lesson in pumpkin carving from local Executive Chef Eddie Ishaq of Wildfire, at Tysons Galleria, with all of the proceeds going to a local food bank. “I enjoy seeing all the smiles on the kids’ faces as they carve their pumpkins, and [I like] the fact all the money goes to a great cause,” said Ishaq. “I [also enjoy] passing along all of my carving skills.” Proceeds from the event will help support Food for Others, a Northern Virginia food bank. During the class, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 3-4 p.m. at Wildfire at Tysons Galleria, parents and children will get a hands-on pumpkin carving lesson led by Ishaq. At the end of the class, the children will take home their creations.
Denim Do-gooders Help Put Zip on Homelessness
Deltek hosts “challenge breakfast” to turn $5 into $25,000.
Casual Friday got a twist on Friday, Oct. 18, as thousands of employees throughout Fairfax County became denim do-gooders by throwing on a pair of jeans to help prevent and end homelessness. Deltek, Inc., the Herndon-based global software and information solutions company, kicked off the third annual Jeans Day in Fairfax County by hosting a fundraising breakfast. The company, founded in 1983 by Don deLaski and his son Kenneth, hosted one of the first Jeans Day events in Fairfax County. “We were excited to see Deltek host this challenge breakfast that welcomed businesses, nonprofits and other community leaders interested in helping to make jeans day a huge success this year,” said Dean Klein, director of Fairfax County’s Office to Prevent and End Homelessness (OPEH). “Even though we continue to have great support from longtime supporters, we also saw so much energy and enthusiasm from new partners.”
Difficult Choices for Schools
New superintendent says School Board needs to brace for $100 million worth of cuts.
Should class sizes be increased? Should school employees be laid off? Should students have to pay to take Advanced Placement and International Baccalauresate tests? These are some of the difficult choices before members of the Fairfax County School Board for fiscal year 2015. This week, Superintendent Karen Garza laid out about 50 potential spending items that could be on the chopping block. School officials need to close a $140 million shortfall. That means even if the Board of Supervisors and the General Assembly kick in more money, School Board members are going to need to make significant cuts. "I think it's still yet to be determined what that number is, although we know it's going to be extraordinarily high," Garza told School Board members during a work session Monday. "I think it's going to be at least $100 million." Garza, who joined the school system over the summer, was quick to point out that she was not making any recommendations. She described the list as "menu items" that School Board members could order to balance the books.
Pumpkin Carving Ideas
Local experts offer their best tips for creating your jack-o-lantern.
Whether your goal is to carve and decorate the best pumpkin on the block or simply use this fall gourd for Halloween inspiration, local culinary experts offer pumpkin ideas that will keep the season festive. Before embarking on a pumpkin carving project, take a look at the condition of your knives. “Generally speaking, a dull knife is a dangerous knife,” said Christine Wisnewski, a culinary instructor at Culinaria Cooking School in Vienna. “And a pumpkin, because of its size and shape, can be a challenge, even if you have good knife skills. If you use a knife, make sure it is sharp and work slowly.” Wisnewski generally advises eschewing chef’s knives for a pumpkin carving kit, usually found in supermarkets and craft stores. “The cutting tools may look less impressive than your best kitchen knife, but they do work well,” she said. “The small blades are deeply serrated and make quick work getting through dense pumpkin flesh.” Pumpkin carving kits are also a solution to the safety issue. “If the kids do want to carve, no one’s fingers are at risk with these little carving tools,” she said. “Our family has managed to get many years of use out of the tools that came with our first kits.”
Sheltering Animals & Families Together
Initiative promotes domestic violence shelters that accept pets.
Did you know that approximately 2.3 million people, primarily women, are victims of partner violence? Did you know that over 62 percent of the American households have, at least, one pet? Approximately 48 percent of abused women do not leave an abusive situation because they will not leave their pets behind. Pets are likely to be victimized by the household abuser. The abuser’s animal cruelty is used to force compliance from the victims. “What I do to the dog is what I can do to you” is the message the abuser sends, according to Allie Phillips, founder of Sheltering Animals & Families Together [SAF-T]. “As a prosecutor in Michigan, I saw women who stayed with their abusers to protect their pets,” said Phillips. “If they leave, the abuser will turn his anger on the pet. The pet usually is the primary target used to control the victim. “I created the safety program to help get these women out of their abusive homes.”
Tuesday, October 22
Creating a Spooky Halloween Dinner
Local culinary experts offer ideas for turning an ordinary meal into a ghoulish adventure.
Halloween dinner in Christine Wisnewski’s Vienna home is often a balancing act between healthy and sugary. On the sweetest holiday of the year, for example, the mother and culinary instructor at Culinaria Cooking School, also in Vienna, prepares a wholesome dinner for her eager trick-or-treaters, managing candy-induced sugar highs and inevitable post-confection lows.
Friday, October 18
Fairfax Home Sales: September, 2013
In September 2013, 83 Fairfax homes sold between $1,393,860-$169,000.
Fairfax Home Sales: September, 2013
Thursday, October 17
20th Annual Goblin Gallop Is Oct. 27
Benefits families of children with cancer.
Jack-o-lanterns, pumpkin pie and colorful leaves signal that Halloween will soon be here. And that means it’s time for the Goblin Gallop. This year’s event is the 20th annual and it’s set for Sunday, Oct. 27, at the Fairfax Corner Shopping Center.
Visiting the Local Fire Station
Local residents visited Fair Oaks Fire Station 21 during its open house, Saturday, Oct. 12.
City of Fairfax Welcomes Fall
37th annual Fall Festival Celebration held on Sunday.
With a forecast of rain and showers, the event planning team for the City of Fairfax Park and Recreation Department postponed the annual Fall Festival Celebration—originally planned for Saturday—and held it on Sunday, Oct. 13.
Editorial: Don’t Let Negatives Keep You From Voting
Choices are stark; think about what principles should guide governance in Virginia for the next four years.
Every Virginia voter will have the option to cast a ballot for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and their member of the Virginia House of Delegates. While much of the coverage and advertising at the top of the ticket has been negative in the extreme, it will still matter who is governor. Don’t turn up your nose, hold your nose if necessary, and go vote. You can vote on Nov. 5; most likely you can vote before that.
Classified Advertising October 16, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Wednesday, October 16
Week in Fairfax
Recycle During Electric Sunday Residents may recycle old TVs, computers, peripheral electronic devices such as keyboards, speakers, printers and scanners, as well as household hazardous wastes, including fluorescent light bulbs and tubes, for free during Fairfax County’s “Electric Sunday” events. The next one is slated for Sunday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road in Fairfax. For more information, call 703-324-5052.
Requejo Pleads Guilty to Two Felonies
A Fairfax man charged with sexually molesting a child pleaded guilty last week in Fairfax County Circuit Court. He is Eduardo Requejo, 23, of Warwick Avenue, and he’ll be sentenced in February.
Battleground Northern Virginia
What role will the region play in the election?
For many years, Northern Virginia has been written off by both parties as a Democratic stronghold — a place where Republicans simply try to cut their losses while they focus on the rest of the commonwealth. But this election cycle may be different. All three of the gubernatorial candidates are from Fairfax County. And recent statewide candidates have not been able to win without picking off selected jurisdictions in Northern Virginia. "As you look at Northern Virginia that's further from Washington, you see a more Republican area — Prince William, western Fairfax, Fauquier," said Stephen Farnsworth, professor at University of Mary Washington. "That's where the real action is in Northern Virginia politics." As Election Day draws closer and television becomes a virtual battlefield for attention, a real battle is brewing on the ground here in Northern Virginia. Candidates and their advisors are looking at the path to victory back in 2009 for Republican Bob McDonnell, who won Prince William County, Fairfax County and Fauquier County. Although this race is likely to be closer than 2009, the importance of Northern Virginia is looming larger than ever.
What’s in a Name?
Virginia legislators work with Korean American groups to push for “East Sea” in textbooks.
Virginia’s gubernatorial candidates Ken Cuccinelli (R) and Terry McAuliffe (D) may be light years apart on most issues, but on one issue they’ve reached a consensus. Last month, they both pledged support to Virginia’s growing population of Korean Americans to use the dual names of “East Sea” and “Sea of Japan” to denote the body of water between Korea and Japan in Virginia’s textbooks. Koreans view the “Sea of Japan” designation as a legacy of Japanese colonial rule. Currently, more than 2.5 million Korean-Americans reside in the U.S. and nearly 150,000 of them live in Virginia. “As governor, going forward, I will wholeheartedly support the effort … to have our textbooks and other teaching materials reflect the concurrent names as we pursue education excellence in Virginia,” Cuccinelli wrote in a Sept. 16 letter to the Korean Community of Virginia. “As governor, I will ensure that as new texts are purchased or downloaded, they reflect this important historical truth …,” McAuliffe wrote to the Korean Community of Virginia on Sept. 25. For the past year, state Sen. Dave Marsden (D-37) has been leading Virginia’s legislative efforts to add the “East Sea” in public school textbooks.
Friday, October 11
Family Celebrates 50th Foster Puppy
What does the Fairfax County Animal Shelter do when it takes in an extremely young animal, one too young to adopt out? It finds a foster family willing to take on the responsibility of nurturing the sometimes days-old animal until it is old enough to be adopted permanently.
Editorial: Get a Flu Shot, Register to Vote
Getting a flu shot has never been easier.
Week in Fairfax
All Fairfax County fire stations will hold Fire Prevention Open Houses this Saturday, Oct. 12, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and the public is welcome. It’s part of national Fire Prevention Week and is aimed at preventing home fires—especially those that begin in the kitchen.
Complete the Circle Oct. 27
Our Daily Bread hosting food and toiletries collections, community event.
Our Daily Bread in Fairfax is hosting its third-annual “Complete the Circle” food-collection campaign and community event on Sunday, Oct. 27 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Fairfax High School practice field.
BB&T 5K Run/Walk Is Sunday, Oct. 13
The First BB&T 5K will be held this Sunday, Oct. 13, at the Fairfax Corner shopping center. The 1K Fun Run starts at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K run/walk at 9 a.m. The 5K course is USATF-certified.
United States Air Force Hits the Mark at Paul VI
Not all assemblies are the same, and Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax recently hosted one for the record books. By 11 a.m. on Sept. 25, Air Force trucks and vans had converged to the school’s back parking lot, and AF personnel were busy moving equipment in bags and anvil cases into the school. Meanwhile, PVI’s Music Boosters set out a reception for the 75 arriving Air Force personnel. In the Student Activity Center, mats were laid out, chairs and stands placed, sound system checked and rechecked, and soon it was time. At 1:15, the Air Force Band from Bolling Air Force Base D.C. began an awe-inspiring concert for participating teachers and classes
Fairfax Diver Sets Goal for 2016 Olympics
Rider University graduate Amanda Burke, Class of 2010, is one of the top divers in the United States. In February of 2013 Burke was selected to the Olympic Performance Squad for 2013.
Annual K-9 Krawl Is Saturday, Oct. 19
The seventh annual K-9 Krawl is set for Saturday, Oct. 19, in parking lot C of the Fairfax County Government Center. Check-in is at 8:30 a.m., police K-9 demonstration, 8:45 a.m.; and walk at 9 a.m.
Fairfax Author Helps Turning Things Around
The 101 secrets of “Climbing Out of a Rut.”
“I don’t know what to do. I’m stuck in a rut and there’s no way out. It’s hopeless.” This is the complaint that Dr. Laura Hills hears frequently from her coaching clients, workshop participants and readers. According to Hills, who is a personal and professional development author, speaker, and coach for career professionals based in Fairfax, feeling helpless before setbacks “is a problem of epidemic proportions and we rarely talk about it. Too many people feel that their work is dull and unrewarding. The big aspirations and enthusiasm of childhood have long vanished, leaving behind a terrible feeling of loss and emptiness.” Unfortunately, feeling stuck in a job or career that is unfulfilling is often the beginning of a host of other problems, Hills warns, including depression, addiction, divorce, job loss, financial problems and illness.
Teen Safe Driving Program Visits Inova
Representatives from the Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program managed by the Ford Motor Company Fund, Ford’s philanthropic arm, stopped by Inova Children's Hospital on Wednesday, Oct. 2 to highlight with leadership and staff some of the main causes of car crashes involving teenagers, including inexperience and distracted driving. Those in attendance also got to hear personal stories from those that work in the trauma unit who regularly witness the outcomes of these types of crashes.
65 New Jobs, $30,000 in Free Sandwiches
New Fairfax Chick-Fil-A awarded 100 guests with free meals for a year.
Fairfax's new Chick-fil-A brought 65 new jobs and a year of free Chick-fil-A meals for 100 adults on Thursday, Sept. 19. The grand opening of the 4516 Fair Knoll Drive off Fair Lakes Parkway restaurant saw 200 people arrive before 6 a.m., hoping to win their year of free meals. There was plenty of free food for the families and guests camping in the grass in front of the building, playing games, resting, reading and dancing. A DJ even arrived to play some music the night prior to the opening.
Thursday, October 10
Classified Advertising October 9, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Wednesday, October 9
United States Air Force Hits the Mark at Paul VI
Not all assemblies are the same, and Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax recently hosted one for the record books. By 11 a.m. on Sept. 25, Air Force trucks and vans had converged to the school’s back parking lot, and AF personnel were busy moving equipment in bags and anvil cases into the school. Meanwhile, PVI’s Music Boosters set out a reception for the 75 arriving Air Force personnel. In the Student Activity Center, mats were laid out, chairs and stands placed, sound system checked and rechecked, and soon it was time. At 1:15, the Air Force Band from Bolling Air Force Base D.C. began an awe-inspiring concert for participating teachers and classes.
Woodson Cavaliers March Along
Woodson High’s homecoming parade was Friday, Oct. 4.
Eye Level Opens in Jermantown Square
Eye Level has opened a new learning center in the Jermantown Square Shopping Plaza at the intersection of Jermantown Road and Lee Highway in Fairfax.
Fairfax Marching Rebels Win Band Competitions
The school year has barely started and already Fairfax High’s Marching Rebels band is winning top honors for its musicianship and showmanship in competitions against other schools. On Sept. 16 at the Bands of America event in Monroe, Pa., the Rebels came in first in their class and third overall, out of 13 bands.
Walking to Feed the Hungry
n mutual cooperation, the administrations of three states, including Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. all signed proclamations officially declaring the period of Sept. 15-29, 2013 as The Day to Serve and as a time to initiate activities that would assist the poor in our area and combat hunger. One of the more successful activities held was a 3K walk (1.8 miles) on Saturday, Sept. 28, starting from Robinson Secondary School in the Burke area of Fairfax County through the shaded streets and past the manicured yards of the local neighborhood. Food donations from the participants were distributed to the local food banks.
Raising Awareness, Money To Stop Domestic Violence
A woman battered and bruised by her abusive husband leaves one night to escape. Unable to find a safe place to stay, she is forced to go back, time and time again. Across town another woman flees with her children. Not knowing where to go, they sleep in the woods despite freezing temperatures. In a third house, a child pulls the blankets over her head, trying to drown out the sound of yelling and punching down the hall. It’s a sad American truth that one in three women murdered are killed by an intimate partner. In Fairfax County 57 percent.
South County Football off to 4-1 Start
Stallions dismantle West Springfield, 54-3.
South County scored more than 50 points in each of its four victories this season.
Community Concert Assists Local Food Banks
On Sunday, Sept. 29 at Fairfax High School, Grammy nominated violinist Jenny Oaks Baker and the Mormon Choir of Washington, D.C. held a concert as part of the annual “Day to Serve” initiative to feed the hungry. A crowd of 800 people came out and donated approximately 1,600 pounds of nonperishable goods. This food will be put to good use by local area food banks that are responding to unprecedented demand from those in need.
Offering Special Needs Training
Christ Presbyterian Church holds autism workshops for lay people on Oct. 18-19.
Christ Presbyterian Church is offering a free Special Needs Ministry Training Workshop Oct. 18-19, for Sunday School teachers, lay people, and volunteers who minister to children and youth with autism and other conditions. It features presentations from local ministry leaders, DVDs by experts, and training in classroom management. The workshops are at 12410 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway, Fairfax. “The goal is to bring awareness to the unique opportunity people have in ministering to families of special needs,” said Pastor Geoff McLean, 40. “We’re looking to build a cadre of folks to support each other in this kind of ministry.” McLean said a lot of people come to church and they find it an unwelcoming place if they have special needs. And because most folks are going through their own individual struggles, he wants to bring them together to be resources for each other. “So if they have an issue, they can talk to others and find ways to connect,” he said.
Decorating for Fall
Local designers offer suggestions for bringing the harvest into your home.
The colors of autumn are all around as pumpkins and squash fill produce stands and leaves change from green to orange, red and yellow before falling from their branches. Local designers and tastemakers are unveiling home accents that bring the warm hues of the season into the home. Whether using pillows, throws or flowers, adding the colors and textures of fall requires less effort than one might expect. “Emerald green, orange and turquoise are three of the biggest color trends we’re seeing,” said Marcus Browning of European Country Living in Old Town Alexandria. “Throws and pillows are a given, but you can also tie in traditional and modern accessories with rugs, stained glass lamps with modern or intricate designs.” Small trays provide a canvas for highlighting color and adding functionality to a room, says Marika Meyer of Marika Meyer Interiors in Bethesda, Md. “Color and pattern are in right now,” she said. “I just purchased the C. Wonder (http://www.cwonder.com) navy and white chevron tray for my home. It adds a punch of color and freshness to a room. Preppy is back in a big way, too, offering lots of patterns.”
Negative Campaign
Candidates appear at minority business forum, attacking each other.
Local and statewide candidates for office appeared at an unprecedented forum in Northern Virginia last weekend, a collaboration of minority business groups of blacks, Hispanics and Asians. But as candidates arrived at the Annandale campus of the Northern Virginia Community College for a Sunday afternoon forum, voters realized that the tone of the campaign would remain unrelentingly negative. "All three of the Republican candidates are Tea Party right wing extremists," said Del. Ken Plum (D-36), who is running unopposed. "Look at their records and their stands on the issues." Plum attacked Cuccinelli's lawsuit against the Affordable Care Act as well as his investigation into a University of Virginia professor studying climate change. The longtime delegate also said the Republican attorney general candidate Sen. Mark Obenshain (R-25) has a similar record, including a bill that would have required women to report abortions to police. Together with the candidate for lieutenant governor, Plum said, the ticket is Tea Party from top to bottom.
Friday, October 4
Classified Advertising Oct. 2, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Thursday, October 3
Guest Editorial: Virginia’s Easy Access to Guns
A parent asks why background checks aren’t better.
How do you respond to a 7 year old when she comes home from school and says “we did our bad man drill today Mommy, but don’t worry it was just for practice, no one really came into our school to shoot us”?
Senior Volunteers Stay Active
Fifty percent of Mount Vernon RECenter’s volunteers are senior citizens.
The Mount Vernon RECenter is known for its ice skating rink, massive indoor swimming pool and fitness center with spa and sauna. It has 46 volunteers who help greet guests, clean up the fitness room, landscape the grounds and assist people with adapted swimming and ice-skating. Exactly half of them are retired senior citizens over 50 who want to stay active while giving back to the community.
Choosing a Home for the Golden Years
Many options for retirement communities in the region.
Jim Harkin, 81, and his wife, Phyllis, 80, have little free time these days. Jim spends his days protecting and photographing wildlife on the 60-acre campus at The Fairfax, a Sunrise Senior Living Community, in Fort Belvoir. He helped build, refurbish and maintain more than 20 birdhouses on the grounds, including homes for tree swallows and purple martins.
Active Seniors Compete for Glory
fter 11 days of more than 50 events held Sept. 7-19, the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics finished with a golf event at Forest Greens Golf Course in Triangle, Va. Other events ranged from cycling, swimming and pickle ball to Mexican train dominos and Scrabble.
Diverse Needs, Desires Drive Mobility Solutions
Seniors increasingly seek innovative plans that embrace both the present and the future.
Russ Glickman was a traditional full-service remodeler until the late 1990s when he abruptly added a host of accessibility certifications to a long list of building industry credentials. The service extension was less about opportunity than a personal call to apply what he’d learned from personal experience in helping his son, Michael, who was born with cerebral palsy.
Column: “Mor-Tality” or Less
Meaning, in my head anyway, the future and what there is left of it. More specifically, I mean life expectancy. When you’re given a “13-month to two-year” prognosis—at age 54 and a half, by a cancer doctor, your cancer doctor—the timeline between where you are and where you thought you’d be when becomes as clear as mud.
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 deferred its Nov. 20 public hearing on a proposed residential studios (RSUs) amendment to conduct additional community outreach.
Now What?
Fairfax County braces for “domino effect” of federal government shutdown.
“We live in a ‘company town’ and the company is the federal government, so most of us have family and friends who are federal employees or contractors impacted by this shutdown,” Long said in a memo emailed to county employees Tuesday. Long said his biggest concern was the “domino effect” the shutdown will have on the local economy, and “the short-term uncertainty that will impact business decisions.”
Social Justice Matters
SALT forum gives candidates a chance to tell voters where they stand on social justice issues.
But one group also thinks voters should know where candidates stand on social justice issues when they go to the polls Nov. 5. “Our elected officials have a great deal of influence on the common good, so it’s reasonable that we find out where candidates stand on these issues,” said John Horejsi, founder of SALT (Social Action Linking Together), a non-partisan, faith-based advocacy group started in 1983.
Leadership Fairfax Honors Community Leaders Who Make a Difference
Leadership Fairfax (LFI) has chosen the 2013 Northern Virginia Leadership Awards (NVLA) recipients via a panel of community and business leaders evaluating nominations submitted by Leadership Fairfax alumni and the general public. The award recipients will be honored at the Northern Virginia Leadership Awards luncheon on Thursday, Nov. 7, at Westwood Country Club in Vienna.
Minority Chambers of Commerce to Host Candidates’ Forum
The recently formed alliance of Northern Virginia Minority Chambers of Commerce will give members of the fast growing minority business community the opportunity to meet with the commonwealth’s gubernatorial and statewide candidates at the first-ever joint Candidates’ Forum, Sunday, Oct. 6, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus.
On the Job and Hot on the Trail
Finding people is fun for new, police bloodhound pups.
“We’ll get them out here and acclimate them to the noises — gunfire, [vehicle] brakes and birds,” said Masood. They’ll also be exposed to airplanes, wind, rain, heat, car horns honking, plus obstacles such as fences. And they’ll learn how it feels on their paws to walk in the woods, through brush, on cement, carpet, tile floors, etc. That way, said Clarke, “When they get out on the street, when they’re almost a year old, they’ll be ready.”
Paul VI Freshman Takes Silver at National Skating Competition
Clifton ninth-grader LaDan Nemati earned the silver medal at the Solo Ice Dance National Championships at the World Arena in Colorado Springs, Colo. last weekend. The 14-year-old Nemati bested most of the field of 25 skaters from across the country who qualified to compete at the bronze level with an elegant performance of the "Willow Waltz."
Week in Fairfax
Richard Walker, 32, of Fair Oaks, was killed last week after his car crashed into a tree on Popes Head Read. The tragedy occurred last Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 1:52 p.m., near the Fairfax County Parkway. According to Fairfax County police, preliminary investigation indicates that he was driving a 2012 Mercedes sedan westbound on Popes Head Road “at an excessive speed” as he approached a curve. He was unable to negotiate the curve, ran off the road to the right and struck a tree.
Fairfax Library’s Book Sale a Success
The City of Fairfax Regional Library’s book sale was a huge success last Friday through Sunday. Its Children’s Book Sale the previous weekend was the best in the last three sales. On Friday, 1,600 people attended.
Mosby Woods Elementary Turns 50
School holds two-day celebration with family picnic, fun and games.
Mosby Woods Elementary School celebrated its 50th anniversary last Thursday and Friday, Sept. 26 and 27 in Fairfax. The PTA-sponsored event featured a family picnic, time capsule, and fun and games.
Charming, Smart, Comedic
Cabaret duo “Marcy and Zina” arriving in Fairfax.
"Neurotically optimistic songs about love and life" are coming to Northern Virginia audiences as the award-winning Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich pull into the Northern Virginia Jewish Community Center (JCCNV). You may not know their names right off hand, but Kristin Chenowith, Audry McDonald and Michael Feinstein regularly sing their compositions.
Wednesday, October 2
The City of Fairfax to Host Fall Festival
Crafts, arts, carnival, four stages of music and entertainment, lumberjack competition.
Crafts, children’s activities, rides, music and food will fill the downtown Fairfax streets during the Fall Festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 12 (Rain date: Oct. 13). Entry is free, fees are charged for various rides and children activities.
Crash Kills Man, Causes Baby’s Death
A car crash early Sunday morning on the Fairfax County Parkway killed a Manassas man and caused a pregnant woman to deliver her baby early. Authorities say the newborn did not survive. The incident happened Sept. 29, at 1:40 a.m., just north of Braddock Road.
‘Give Them Strength, Fortitude and Compassion’
Criminal Justice Academy graduates 43 officers.
The graduates of the 60th session of the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy included the police department’s first Asian female, a former fire department deputy chief and a Bulgarian immigrant whose family tended vineyards. The ceremony was Sept. 20 in GMU’s Harris Theatre, and Circuit Court Clerk John Frey swore in 43 new officers. There were 26 county police officers, 13 sheriff’s deputies, two Town of Vienna police officers, one Town of Herndon police officer and one county fire investigator.
Track Star Mentors Amputee Athletes at Prosthetic Center
Paralympic track and field champion Heinrich Popow visited Fairfax Friday, Sept. 27, to provide demonstrations and instruction to area above-knee amputees interested in returning to running and becoming more active since the loss of their legs. The training session involved local amputees trying out a first of its kind sports prosthesis developed specifically to help make that goal a reality.
Willkommen! Guten Tag!
Bulova puts “fun” in fundraiser at Lorton Workhouse Arts Center.
Oktoberfest arrived early as more than 300 friends, family and high-profile Democrats gathered at the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center Sept. 22 for the 27th annual German-themed political fundraiser hosted by Sharon Bulova, chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Guests enjoyed German beer, a traditional German oompah band and a smorgasbord of Bavarian food, including bratwurst, sauerkraut and German wines, during the afternoon event.
Letter: Pills or Jobs?
To the Editor: These days I had the opportunity to support my candidate for governor, Ken Cuccinelli. Dozens of women showed up to rally for the general at the entrance of the building where the debate with Terry McAuliffe was being held. There were also dozens of younger people in blue t-shirts, pink t-shirts and purple t-shirts. Strangely, most were males. Most appeared to be college-aged.
Rattanaphone’s 3 Interceptions Lead TC Football Past Woodson
Titans improve to 3-1, Cavaliers drop to 0-4
The T.C. Williams football team is 3-1 for the first time since 2005.
The Taste of Fall
Local chefs and nutritionists offer healthy recipes for tasty fall dishes using seasonal ingredients.
When the temperature starts to drop and leaves begin to turn red and orange, you can often find chef Susan Limb meandering through local farmers markets, sorting through rough-textured, knotty sweet potatoes; tough, waxy butternut squash; and dusty, rose-colored apples.