Thursday, July 31
Springfield Shortlisted for FBI Headquarters
Other locations are Greenbelt and Landover.
Springfield could very well be the next site of the FBI headquarters. The General Services Administration and FBI announced Tuesday that Springfield was included on the shortlist for the new FBI headquarters.
Laurel Hill Master Plan Meets Final Approval
Construction expected to begin this fall.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to approve the plan to develop the site of the former Lorton prison.
Lake Braddock Grad Owens to Play Baseball at ECU
Q&A: Former Bruins SS enjoys playing beach volleyball.
Lake Braddock grad Jack Owens will play baseball at East Carolina.
Wednesday, July 30
Foreign Nationals Immersed in Local Lifeguarding
For some, it starts out on two wheels.
Every day, Vasyl Smolii uses two different routes when he bikes to and from work at the Belle View pool in Alexandria. Coming down the hill on Belle View Boulevard is an easy ride in the morning but going back up in the evening is not as easy on the bicycle Smolii rents from his sponsor High Sierra Pools, an Arlington-based pool management company. "I must buy this bike for the summer," said 19-year-old Smolii from Ukraine.
Serving Families For 90 Years
Pushing the boundaries has led to success, says Northern Virginia Family Services CEO.
An organization does not thrive for 90 years by chance. Northern Virginia Family Services, a county institution, has impacted families throughout the region for nearly a century with no sign of slowing down.
Column: “CanSir”
When it comes to being a cancer patient, even more so a multi-year cancer survivor, I have always erred on the side of caution. And by caution, I mean being respectful to the disease, courteous of its comings and goings, mindful of its potential damage and afraid of its intangibles. And by intangibles, I mean the unexplained and the inexplicable, and most fearfully, its power and unpredictability. Therefore, my behavior toward it has been intended to be as polite as possible; never to be perceived – in any way imaginable – as arrogant, presumptuous, in control, all-knowing and most especially, victorious.
Editorial: Finally, Marriage Rights Protected in Virginia
On July 28, 2014, in affirming that Virginia’s ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, Circuit Judge Henry F. Floyd writes: “We recognize that same-sex marriage makes some people deeply uncomfortable. However, inertia and apprehension are not legitimate bases for denying same-sex couples due process and equal protection of the laws.
Governor's Mansion, Confidential
Defense team in corruption case to detail crumbling McDonnell marriage.
When he takes the stand in his own defense, former Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell will read jurors an email that he wrote to his wife as their marriage was said to be crumbling.
Thursday, July 24
WSHS Grad Berglund to Play at Northwestern-St. Paul
Q&A: Sharpshooting guard fan of Minnesota Vikings, Twins.
West Springfield graduate Amy Berglund finished second on the West Springfield all-time scoring list.
Apartments, Retail Planned: Kamp Washington Triangle
Fairfax City Council concerned about density, affordability.
It’s still a work in progress, but Novus Fairfax Gateway LLC hopes to transform part of the Kamp Washington triangle between Fairfax Boulevard and Lee Highway into a modern, community-serving, mixed-use project.
Snake? Snake?!
Lewis family cares for four-foot female corn snake.
Indiana Jones may not enjoy slithering serpents all that much, but the Lewis family, on the other hand, welcomed corn snake Cory into the house 10 years ago, and has been caring for her ever since.
Roaches Approaching
Pre-K teacher entertains class with Hisser and Norman.
Switching two letters makes a world of difference between how cockroaches are typically described and how Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Kareen Lawson of Burke describes them. Whereas most anyone else would hit the insects with the label “pest,” not to mention with an old magazine, Lawson’s term for her two Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches, Hisser and Norman, is instead “pets.”
Ferreting for Fun
Local ninth grader appreciates playful nature of Steve and Skippy.
Commonly known for their playfulness and pungence, ferrets have earned themselves the moniker of “the clowns of the animal kingdom” from sources like Animal Planet. City of Fairfax resident Brandon Henry, 13, of Robinson Secondary has greatly enjoyed this aspect of his two ferrets, Steve and Skippy, for the past two years. “I asked for them two years ago for Christmas, and ended up receiving them as a gift from my parents,” Henry said. “At the time, my sister always called random things ‘Steve,’ so I decided to name one of the ferrets ‘Steve,’ and the other one was always hopping around, so I named it ‘Skippy.’”
Grants to Support Animal Welfare
2014 Barkdull Memorial Fund winners announced.
On May 13, The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia’s Margery Barkdull Memorial Fund for Animal Welfare announced four winners for the 2014 grant process from a group of 12 applicants. The winners are Friends of Homeless Animals, receiving $2,000; Prince William Humane Society, receiving $3,000; The Wildlife Rescue League, receiving $3,000; and The Wolf Trap Foundation, receiving $2,000. Each of these organizations are dedicated to the welfare of animals.
Letter: Following the Rule of Honor
Letter to the Editor
The recent story in The Connection about Governor Terry McAuliffe signing special legislation that would focus on helping military personnel and their families underscored the importance of what these fine Americans do for our country. A grateful nation and state should acknowledge their sacrifice by helping them when possible.
Reading Retriever
Samson serves as one-dog audience to young readers at local libraries.
Since his puppy days, Golden Retriever Samson has been an eager participant in a program custom-made to display the most admirable qualities of man’s best friend. He and volunteer Tricia Lowney of Fairfax Station, his owner, have participated in the popular “Read to the Dog” program at four local libraries since 2012.
Workshop Promotes Science Education
On Tuesday, July 15, the Virginia Initiative for Science Teaching and Achievement (VISTA), in conjunction with the George Mason University College of Education and Human Development, held a day-long program that focused on advancing science education in Fairfax County schools.
Lizzie and Yola, the Life Saving Labs
About eight years ago, a very special dog came into our lives – and the lives of many others. We signed up with Guiding Eyes for the Blind to be Puppy Raisers.
Pet Connection July 2014
Our readers submitted photos of their adorable pets.
Frodo and Sam have become best friends – sort of. My husband and I adopted Frodo from Home Alone Cat Rescue several years ago. He is part Maine Coon and part American Bobtail, with a funny short tail. He may have been mistreated by a previous owner because he is afraid of everything, especially ceiling fans. He quickly became comfortable in our home as an “only cat.”
Swimming for a Cause at South Run Pool
On Sunday, July 13, the South Run Community Pool held their annual Swim-a-Thon charity event to raise funds and awareness for cancer, a cause that runs deep through this close-knit neighborhood community.
Robinson Grad Never Far from Roots
Hometown entrepreneur set to open business in Fairfax.
Baher Elgibali, 31, of Kingstowne, is no stranger to stress, having worked in real estate and construction for almost 10 years. A former real estate specialist at Debbie Dogrul Associates - a Fairfax real estate company - Elgibali learned about the extreme sides of stress and found that massage was a way to relieve it.
How Has the Library Affected You?
Friends of Richard Byrd Library encourage visitors to share library stories.
Springfield resident Eleanor Lamb loves the library. The West Springfield High School graduate visited consistently while growing up in the area, and is now giving back through her internship with the Friends of Richard Byrd Library. Lamb, a rising junior at William and Mary, has spent the summer gathering the opinions and viewpoints of people who used the library, taking their picture and making posters with the responses as part of the “Library Stories” project.
Serving up a Summer Treat
Springfield residents make homemade ice cream at area farmers markets.
Even with flavors that contain vegetables like beets and rhubarbs, children and adults alike are crazy for Craig and June McMullen’s homemade, fresh and natural ice cream. “It’s a great way to get kids to eat vegetables,” June said.
Express Lanes, Rapid-Bus Transit Planned for I-66
Improvements will be made from Capital Beltway to Haymarket.
Express lanes and rapid-bus transit could be coming to Interstate 66, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe announced on July 17.
Give Blood, Give Back to Community
Paul VI student hosting blood drive in Clifton.
When Mitch Kiefer was 6, his 3-year-old brother Brent was diagnosed with leukemia. Brent recovered, but Kiefer remains committed to helping others suffering from similar illnesses. Now, Kiefer, a student at Paul VI Catholic School in Fairfax, is planning a second blood drive in Clifton in honor of his brother.
Springfield Pet Store Shares Importance of Good Nutrition
Felix & Oscar provide natural pet food.
Nikki Logan and Matt O’Leary, employees of Felix & Oscar, a natural pet food store in Springfield, admit that their pets probably eat better than they do sometimes. “With all of the processed and artificial stuff that’s in fast food, I would definitely say yes,” Logan said.
Caring for Aging Pets
Jason Overman of Springfield Animal Hospital shares some best practices.
Even for those pet lovers who pay close attention to the health and well-being of their pets, it’s not uncommon for owners to be unaware of when their pet is reaching the point of becoming a senior. Because the lifespan of pets can vary, it’s important to do extensive research, and to take pets to the vet at least once a year.
Wednesday, July 23
Across Northern Virginia, Men Pull Larger Paychecks than Women
Trend is more prominent in wealthier areas.
When Lola Arce de Quintela first moved to Oakton 20 years ago, she noticed something about the way men and women arranged their professional careers around their family lives in Northern Virginia. Men took high-powered jobs with large paychecks, while women often dropped out of the workforce to take care of growing families. If women had full-time jobs, she says, they would often select positions that were not as demanding so they could focus their time and attention on their children while husbands and fathers pulled in six-figure salaries.
Puppies Destined for Important Work
Bred, donated and/or rescued for assistance dog training by paws4people.org, these "baby pictures" will be shared with the children and veterans matched with each dog.
Editorial: Tragic Consequences
Money lost by refusal to expand health coverage, but also life, health and livelihood.
The Virginia General Assembly’s refusal to expand Medicaid, extending health coverage to as many as 400,000 Virginians has resulted in the loss of about $1 billion in direct payments. But that understates the loss, failing to calculate the cost of the lost health of thousands of Virginians.
Friday, July 18
Letter: More Sleep As a Smokescreen
Letter to the Editor
There is no doubt that more sleep is healthier. That is common sense. The real mental disorder is spending money that the school can't afford.
Thursday, July 17
Burke Home Sales: June, 2014
In June 2014, 68 Burke homes sold between $882,500-$128,000.
Burke Home Sales: June, 2014
Rain Can’t Keep These Penguins from the Water
Burke Centre Penguins Swim Team compete after storm.
Storms almost canceled the Burke Centre Penguins’ developmental meet that was scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9. Jim Eckloff, president of the Burke Centre Swim Club, hoped that the Penguins would be able to swim tonight since there may not be another time to make up the scheduled event.
New Principal at Laurel Ridge
Tonya Cox, who has worked in Fairfax County Public Schools for 23 years, began her role as principal of Laurel Ridge Elementary School in Fairfax on July 1.
Saying Goodbye at Halley Elementary
School says goodbye to a ‘true humanitarian.’
Since Halley Elementary School opened in the 1990s, Phoebe Boatright has been at the school inspiring students and helping the Lorton community. This June, Boatright retired after 46 years in education. Students, staff and parents at Halley say they will miss Boatright, who worked as a counselor at the school.
Expect HOV Lane Closures This Summer
Construction of 95 Express Lanes continues.
Drivers planning on using Interstate 95 to get to their vacation destination, or even just to get to work, should prepare for overnight and weekend HOV lane closures from Washington, D.C. to Dumfries as construction of the 95 Express Lanes continues.
Celebrating the ‘Best of Braddock’
Braddock District residents honored for service.
From 10-year-old Rohil Bhinge, who helped raise funds to complete a handicap accessible playground, to Norma Heck, who was one of the first five homeowners of North Springfield in 1955, the Braddock District is full of exceptional citizens.
Fairfax School Board Elects Chairman, Vice Chair
Tamara Derenak Kaufax and Ted Velkoff elected to lead Board.
Tamara Derenak Kaufax (Lee District) and Ted Velkoff (at-large) were elected chairman and vice chair of the Fairfax County School Board on Thursday night, July 10, following an abstention from some members in the election of chairman. Both will serve in their positions for one year.
Wednesday, July 16
Robinson Grad Pinkston to Play Football at R-MC
Q and A: 5-foot-8 defensive tackle defies odds by continuing career.
Robinson graduate Jake Pinkston will play defensive tackle at Randolph-Macon College.
Financial Education for College Students
Local experts offer budget tips to keep students out of debt.
As the summer wanes, many recent high school graduates are preparing to head to college. For those who are living away from home for the first time, this means newfound independence. But that freedom brings responsibility — especially when it comes to money.
Numbers Indicate Stable Market
June home listings climb, with slight dip in sales; average, median prices continue to inch up.
The Northern Virginia market recorded increased inventories, providing buyers with more choices. Nonetheless, buyers are challenged by affordability and accessing credit.
Between Halves
At present, July 12th, I’m halfway, approximately, between my last CT Scan which showed a previously unseen silver-dollar sized growth in my lower left lung and my next CT Scan scheduled for August 6th, one month earlier than my usual three-month interval in order to make an evaluation sooner rather than later; to determine if this is new growth or nothing more than old growth that is now visible due to the combination of shrinking tumors and dissipating fluid opening up the viewing area, so to speak. Apparently, the chemotherapy drug, Alimta, with which I’ve been infused every three weeks since last September appears to be doing its hoped-for job: shrinkage.
Eight FCPS Students Win College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships
Eight Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) graduates from the class of 2014 have been named winners of college-sponsored scholarships by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Recipients of college-sponsored scholarships from the NMSC, with their probable career fields in parentheses, are:
Inova Fairfax Hospital: #1 in D.C. Metro Area
For the third year in a row, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus has been ranked as the #1 Hospital in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area by U.S. News & World Report. Inova Fairfax also jumped in rankings to #2 in the state, and earned national recognition as #33 in the country in Gynecology and #42 in Neonatology. The annual U.S. News Best Hospitals rankings, now in their 25th year, recognize hospitals that excel in treating the most challenging patients. “Three years in a row as #1 is an outstanding accomplishment and we are proud of our hospital’s dedicated physicians and staff who provide the best of care to our patients every day. I’d like to congratulate our staff, particularly within Inova Women’s and Children’s for their impressive and well-deserved national rankings,” said Patrick Christiansen, PhD, chief executive officer, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus.
Editorial: Save a Little, Help Others Prepare for School
Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies is a good reminder to donate supplies and dollars for children who need help arriving at school prepared.
Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies and clothing is Aug. 1-3, and it makes sense to take advantage of the savings, and to spread the wealth around.
Friday, July 11
Putting On Dancing Shoes
Relay for Life of Springfield/Burke raises money for cancer research.
Relay for Life of Springfield/Burke held a fundraiser at the Empire in Springfield on Wednesday, June 25. The event’s theme is “Dance for a Cure.” DJ Lance Ortega provided the selection of music.
Governor McAuliffe Signs into Law Legislation for Military
Governor Terry McAuliffe and Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, Admiral John Harvey held a special ceremony last week to sign into law several pieces of legislation affecting the military community.
Thursday, July 10
School Board Decreases Suspension Time
Student Rights and Responsibilities revised.
Starting this fall, suspensions for certain student offenses in Fairfax County will decrease, thanks to a revision of the school system’s Student Rights and Responsibilities [SR&R]. The school board voted unanimously at the end of June to change the discipline handbook, which will now focus on in school suspensions to preserve time in school. Offenses that come with mandatory punishments are decreased under the updated handbook.
Fairfax Updates Green Building Policy
New policy is result of new technology for green rating systems.
The green building policy in Fairfax has been updated, requiring higher standards for residential, retail, office and other construction projects seeking approval for rezoning in the county.
Archive Provides ‘Insight into the Reality of Segregation’
Northern Virginia Civil Rights Archive dedicated at George Mason.
Civil Rights activists Edwin Henderson, Lillie Jessie and Ralph Smith joined numerous other Virginia residents who lived through the Civil Rights movement and provided their stories during a dedication ceremony for the Northern Virginia Civil Rights Archive on July 7.
Wednesday, July 9
Classified Advertising July 9, 2014
Read the lastest ads here!
Burke Family Touched by Children’s National
Smith family gets involved in Race for Every Child after son undergoes two open heart surgeries.
After raising $712,000 last year, Children’s National Health System has set a goal of raising $1 million through the 2nd annual Race for Every Child in September.
Robinson, Woodson Students Performing in Hit Musical
They’re in “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.”
Students from Robinson Secondary and Woodson High play prominent roles in Westfield Summer Stage’s upcoming musical, “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.” Featuring a cast and crew of 85, all performances are at Westfield High, 4700 Stonecroft Boulevard in Chantilly.
A New Work Order
Local designers help create organized and stylish home offices.
Whether it’s a nook, in the kitchen or a designated room, a home office is the place were ideas come to life. Local designers dish about the secrets to creating a workspace that is organized and functional yet stylish. “You’re going to spend a lot of time in it so aesthetics do matter,” said Patricia Tetro of BOWA in McLean.
Vienna Screen Porch Judged Best of Class
Sun Design Remodeling named National Contractor of the Year for indoor/outdoor innovation.
A spacious screen porch addition to a Mediterranean-style home in Vienna has won a national Contractor of the Year Award for Sun Design Remodeling. The indoor/outdoor solution was judged the nation's best residential addition by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry at an awards ceremony held in New Orleans this past spring. The custom-designed addition to the home's rear elevation integrates a nearly 4,000-square-foot house with mature landscaping that includes flowering shrubs, garden pathways and a fully-stocked koi pond. The project boasts a Tuscan-style interior design that incorporates a wood-fired pizza oven.
You Can Run, But You Can’t Win?
Fairfax County fires attorney for winning city council seat.
Like many lifelong City of Fairfax residents, Nancy Fry Loftus is proud of her hometown’s character and charm — a Norman Rockwell postcard of small-town life in the heart of an increasingly urban, diverse and bustling region.
Not That I’ll Ever Be Out, But…
“Just when I thought I was out…they pull me back in.” Although this quote is from Michael Corleone from “The Godfather: Part III,” it very much characterizes my daily struggle being a terminal cancer patient; non small cell lung cancer, NSCLC, is like that, almost always. Even though I don’t want to think about the fact that I have cancer, or not let it affect my judgment on life – or perspective; or let it impede my path to a happier existence, more often than not, it does.
Editorial: Hurray for Full Day Mondays
Hoping that later start times for high schoolers follows quickly.
For decades, Fairfax County schools have sent elementary school students home after half a day on Mondays. This was never a good idea, and it has been more damaging to family schedules and student learning with the increase over the years of two-income households and greater economic diversity.
Tuesday, July 8
World Cup Fever
Area soccer coaches, players share 2014 World Cup viewing experiences.
Area soccer players and coaches have followed the 2014 World Cup closely.
Commentary: County Falling Behind on Its Housing Goals
On June 9, the Residential Studio Committee of the Fairfax County Planning Commission voted to recommend that the review of the Zoning Ordinance Amendment for Residential Studio Units be tabled. This recommendation will be voted on by the full Planning Commission at its July 24 meeting and it is almost certain that it will be adopted. After months of committee hearings and community meetings throughout the county, the RSU amendment will be quietly put to rest.
Commentary: Area Nonprofit Guides Entrepreneurs to Start-Up Success
For many working poor, the challenges of conquering the barriers to education, childcare and transportation are too great to overcome. Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS), the nonprofit known for providing food and shelter, health and dental access, and Head Start programs for more than 36,000 local residents a year, also is working to alleviate poverty with its innovative entrepreneurship program.
Wednesday, July 2
July 4th Festivities in Fairfax County
A list of celebratory events taking place on July 4th.
A list of parades, fireworks and family-friendly events taking place this Friday, July 4.
Letter: Later Start Times Can Benefit Community
To the Editor: To set the record straight, there is nothing worse for traffic than a car crash, and sleepy teen drivers are like drunk drivers in terms of performance behind the wheel. Later high school start times are safer for teens and also for the rest of us as they have been shown to significantly decrease car crashes in young drivers.
Saturday Morning Live!
Mr. Gabe kicks off Arts in the Parks at Burke Lake Park.
Burke Lake Park started its summer entertainment series on Saturday, June 28, with a live and interactive performance by Mr. Gabe. The event is part of Fairfax County Park Authority and Fairfax Park Foundation’s Arts in the Parks.
Candidates Speak at Lakeside Cookout
Republican Senate, Congressional hopefuls woo locals during Annual Big Braddock BBQ.
U.S. Senate Candidate Ed Gillespie and Virginia 11th Congressional District candidate Suzanne Scholte found themselves on the receiving end of public grilling Sunday: they, along with several dozen local citizens, enjoyed an array of grilled dishes together at Supervisor John Cook’s fourth Annual Big Braddock BBQ at Burke Lake Park.
Governor McAuliffe Signs into Law Legislation for Military
Governor Terry McAuliffe and Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, Admiral John Harvey held a special ceremony to sign into law several pieces of legislation affecting the military community. Over ten pieces of legislation were signed into law during a ceremony held in Norfolk, Va. right outside of the USS Wisconsin. These pieces of legislation were passed during the 2014 General Assembly and took effect July 1.
Full-Day Mondays Start in September
Teachers promised planning time.
Full-day Mondays for all. After 40 years, Fairfax County Public Schools will give all elementary students "full Mondays" for more learning time — and more recess. During a School Board meeting Thursday, June 26, Superintendent Karen Garza said Mondays were cut in half for elementary students since 1972. "While not everyone tonight will embrace the change, we will engage the stakeholders," she told the board.
Climate Change Could Affect Drinking Water
Residents could see — and smell — a very different Potomac River by 2040.
Drinking cups of clear tap water could be a luxury people are less likely to take for granted in the near future as climate-change culprits affect the waterways — and water bills.
Look Out Below
I think I know what a rampaging bull feels like; and I don’t mean one on Wall Street, either. I mean one in the figurative sense: when one has a need, an overwhelming, unstoppable-type urge, to scratch that itch, to gratify that which has been delayed. What am I talking about? (You sound like my wife, Dina.) I am talking about food. More specifically, I am talking about a side effect I’ve been experiencing of late from the chemotherapy drug Alimta, with which I’ve been infused every three weeks since late September, 2013 (successfully I may add, given the shrinkage noted in my most recent CT Scan).