Thursday, May 31
Col. Lawrence Paul Monahan, Jr., USA (Ret.), 88, a Long-time Reston Resident, Dies
Col. Lawrence Paul Monahan, Jr., USA (Ret.) passed away on May 22, 2012 at 88 with his loving wife, Patricia Monahan, and family members by his side at Loudoun Hospital. Col. Monahan, "Paul," was a devoted father to Dr. David Monahan and wife Kathy; Gail Monahan and husband David; Tom Monahan; Tanya Stinson and husband Mike; Robin George and husband Chip; and Scott Trescott. An adoring grandfather to Alex, Julia, Zoe, Cassidy, Jeremy, Anna, Peter and Colin.
Letter: Revelation on Tennis Courts
Letter to the Editor
The formal opening of the new kid-size tennis courts on Saturday, May 19 was a revelation for me. A new phenomenon for Virginia, these six courts replace two normal sized courts that were located opposite the four story office building on Washington Plaza W. off North Shore Road.
Letter: Education 2012: A Third Dimension
Letter to the Editor
In my piece, "Education in the USA, 2012," I said: "There are three distinct ways which make it impossible to say that, aside from equality under the law, all children are created equal." I followed this with only two ways, thus shortchanging the reader. To make amends, I should like to provide my third reason now.
Letter: Misguided Belief
Karen Christenson’s commentary on the health care ["Strengthening, Not Blocking, Health Care Law," Reston Connection, May 23-29, Reston Connection] provided an excellent illustration of a number of shortcomings in America’s medical practices. As Ms. Christenson ably illustrates, self-employed persons are particularly disadvantaged by our system.
Letter: Fraud Issue - Revisited
The Letter to the Editor by Cesar del Aguila ["Misrepresentation in Voter Identification," The Reston Connection, May 16-22, 2012] does not surprise this writer. The usual diatribe of "untruths" spews forth when facts are presented. Chairman del Aguila states, 5-10 percent of the absentee voters are disenfranchised … were wrongfully rejected based on … Virginia's unique and complicated instructions for mailed-in ballots.
Reston Hospital Center Awards Scholarships to Area Students
Reston Hospital Center awarded eight Fairfax County high school seniors with scholarships in recognition of their excellence in education and passion for pursuing a career in healthcare.
Column: Shaping Up the MWAA Board
Recently I attended a briefing for elected officials arranged by Congressmen Connolly and Wolf on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DoT) Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) review of the management and governance of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) as had been requested by Congressman Wolf.
Column: A Senator We Need
These are hard times. With 15 million Americans out of work and levels of inequality not seen since the gilded age, we have a political class unconcerned with our collapsing middle class and those ravaged by poverty.
Pilot Community Garden Becoming a Reality
Cedar Ridge apartments residents who have signed up to be the gardeners are pictured with Sustainable Reston Initiative Chair Diane Blust (3rd from left) with freshly tilled soil of the garden in the background.
Aldrin ES, Worldgate LLC Announce Partnership
Aldrin Elementary School has announced a new business partnership with Worldgate LLC. The partnership was officially announced as part of a planned student assembly. Worldgate LLC president, Katelyn Montgomery, and vice president Scott Montgomery are also Aldrin parents. Worldgate is a consulting company with offices in Reston, Philadelphia and New York. They are at work on several educational projects.
Promoting E-ZPass On 495 Express Lanes
495 Express Lanes announced the launch of a three-month car giveaway contest designed to accelerate the adoption of E-ZPass and the new E-ZPass(r) FlexSM among Northern Virginia drivers in anticipation of the Express Lanes opening later this year.
ArtSpace Herndon Announces Art Photography Competition Winners
ArtSpace Herndon and the Herndon Foundation for the Cultural Arts have announced the winners of the 2012 Fine Art Photography Competition.
Delaney Set to Play Volleyball at JMU
South Lakes volleyball standout earned Seahawks' Offensive Player of Year honors the past two fall seasons.
Sarah Delaney, a senior at South Lakes High School and a key member of the Seahawks' volleyball team during her four years with the program (three as a varsity team member), recently signed a collegiate letter of intent to play the sport next school year at James Madison University in Harrisonburg. Delaney holds South Lakes' single season record for the most blocks per season as well as most kills per season.
Westfield High to Host Spring Jubilee
State tournaments set to be held in baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, and tennis.
Westfield High will host the upcoming Virginia High School League (VHSL) State AAA Spring Sports Jubilee from Tuesday, June 5 through Saturday, June 9. The Spring Jubilee will determine state AAA champions in baseball, softball, boys' and girls' tennis, soccer, and lacrosse. Westfield High is located at 4700 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly.
Wednesday, May 30
Longing for Peace and Happiness
Elden Street Players present "Flowers for Algernon."
"I wanted to give audiences a timeless classic play; one that touches on many different issues," said the award-winning Gloria DuGan, director of "Flowers for Algernon," the next Elden Street Players production. "This play deals with important moral and ethical matters, including how life can be both beautiful and painful."
Barn Animals Attacked Again
In the wake of a stabbing of three horses on April 26, more barnyard animals have been injured by an unknown assailant at the Kidwell Barn at Frying Pan Park in the Herndon area. Two goats, a calf and a chicken were cut by an unknown object during the nighttime hours between 5 p.m. Saturday, May 26 and 7 a.m. Sunday, May 27.
Apt Orthodontics Offers Mobile App
Apt Orthodontics is introducing its mobile app feature. Patients will have the ability to schedule appointments, view services, get current news about the offices, and connect on Facebook from their mobile devices. Apt Orthodontics is bringing the comfort and quality of their practice to the palm of their patients’ hands. They can visit Apt Orthodontics mobile app from their cell phone and iPad at www.aptorthodontics.com.
Community Services Budget Under Scrutiny
$8 Million budget hole threatens programs, public review underway.
The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, which provides social services to thousands of the county’s most vulnerable residents and has come under fire for an $8 million budget shortfall, was given a temporary reprieve by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.
Greeting New ‘Fellow Americans’
Fairfax County hosts fourth annual naturalization ceremony.
"My fellow Americans," U.S. Rep Gerry Connolly (D-11) said with gravitas, pausing to let the meaning sink in. And when it did, 75 immigrants - from Afghanistan to Uzbekistan - who had just raised their right hand and taken the Oath of Allegiance to become American citizens, erupted with applause and tears, waving American flags and hugging family members. They were gathered at the Fairfax County Government Center Friday, May 25, for the county’s fourth annual naturalization ceremony.
Editorial: Surviving through Summer
Helping teens.
It is that time again, the time from proms to graduation, and all the celebrations that come with it. It's lovely to think, from a distance, that this is a happy and uncomplicated time for teens as the school year winds down, many look forward to college in the fall and a summer of internships or other interesting activities.
Area Students Win Merit Scholarships
Six Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students have been named winners of Merit Scholarship awards by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). T
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Animals Assaulted at Kidwell Barn
Weekend incident is similar to nearby April 26 stabbing of three horses.
Two goats, a calf and a chicken were assaulted at Kidwell Barn at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon sometime between 5 p.m. Saturday, May 26 and 7 a.m. Sunday, May 27. Staff at Kidwell Farm at Frying Pan Park went to feed the animals the morning of Sunday, May 27 and found the animals, who were injured by an unknown assailant.
Herndon Remembers Fallen
Chestnut Grove hosts annual observance ceremony.
The Town of Herndon hosted its annual Memorial Day observance at Chestnut Grove Cemetery Monday, May 28. Members of the American Legion joined with local officials and dozens of residents to commemorate the lives given up for their country.
Beautifying Downtown Herndon
Artist Keith Naquin paints mural on NAPA Auto Parts building.
Since April, Keith Naquin has been hard at work on a brick wall. The artist was recently contracted by the Council for the Arts of Herndon to transform the rear of the NAPA Auto Parts building in downtown Herndon into a picturesque glimpse of rural life.
Reston Farmer’s Market Going Strong
Weekly market will be at Lake Anne until November.
Living in California, Tony Tanis saw the rise in popularity of kale chips. A vegan culinary school graduate, she knew the nutritional value of the chips, made of dried kale greens, but found that they could be a little pricey.
Making Reston into Reality
Historic Trust presents early planning of Reston.
Shortly after purchasing the land that would become Reston in March 1961, founder Robert Simon was on a plane back to New York City. The story he likes to tell is that’s where he grabbed a legal pad and began coming up with ideas for his new community, ideas based on his travels and life experiences.
Great Falls Remembers Fallen
Freedom Memorial hosts annual Memorial Day ceremony.
Dozens gathered Monday at the Great Falls Freedom Memorial for the annual Memorial Day ceremony, honoring all who have lost their lives serving this country, including several from Great Falls.
Tuesday, May 29
Column: Off Topic, Almost
If only it were that simple. And as much I’d like to turn the cancer switch off, finding that switch has proven to be extremely challenging.
Friday, May 25
South Lakes Baseball Wraps Up Spring Season
Seahawks edge Fairfax in play-in game before season-ending loss at Marshall.
Although it took more than 24 hours, the South Lakes Seahawks baseball team ultimately subdued the Fairfax Rebels to win their opening Liberty District Tournament game, 8-7. The first three innings were played on Tuesday, May 15 with Seahawk senior pitcher Billy McLaughlin opening on the mound. In the top of the second inning, South Lakes' designated hitter Bobby Rae Allen singled to left field and Austin Gibbons parked a home run into the trees beyond the fence for a 2-0 advantage for the Seahawks.
Hornet Boys Follow the Season Soccer Script
Herndon fullfills season game plan in winning Concorde title.
The long term season plan for the Herndon High boys' soccer team was to ultimately be playing its best by the postseason. The Hornets could not have fulfilled that mission any more successfully than they did at last week's Concorde District tournament where, as the No. 3-seed, they won all three of their games to capture the title.
Thursday, May 24
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Wednesday, May 23
Bulletin Board (Reston/Herndon)
Community events in Reston/Herndon.
Governor Signs Voter ID Bills
McDonnell directs state to send every voter a new voter card before Election Day.
Gov. Robert McDonnell (R) signed watered-down versions of Virginia’s Republican-backed voter identification bills on Friday, adding the Commonwealth to the growing list of states adopting stricter voting standards.
Running, Walking for Charities
Connections for Hope run, walk benefits local charities.
Nearly 46 percent of all Herndon families speak a language other than English at home. Vecinos Unidos is one of the charities trying to fill a need for services in this area.
Education in the USA, 2012
Common sense dictates the directions we should be taking.
It would seem that underpinning today’s education philosophy is the concept embraced by the Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal. From this it has been assumed to flow that since all children are equal, one size should fit all. And this being a high tech world, all children should be required to be proficient in math and science. And finally, since to get a decent job requires a college education, all preliminary years should be pointed to admission to college.
South Koreans Return to Reston
Representatives from the province of JeollaNam-Do in South Korea returned for a second visit to Reston – this time to learn how the planned community delivers services to residents.
Reston Hospital Center’s Tim McManus Promoted to CEO of CJW Medical Center
Chief Executive Officer and President of Reston Hospital Center and HCA Northern Virginia, Tim McManus has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer of CJW Medical Center, a two-campus medical center with 758-beds in Richmond, Virginia.
Column: General Assembly Goes Off a Cliff
The General Assembly adjourned sine die last week with a great sigh of relief from most everyone who participates in or follows its deliberations. Pre-session survey and hearing results suggested that the session would be about traffic congestion relief, expanding job opportunities, and strengthening the economy.
‘Coppélia,’ ‘Giselle’ at Center Stage
Ravel Dance Studio to hold year-end dance recital.
Ravel Dance Studio will hold its annual year-end dance recital Friday and Saturday at Center Stage at Reston Community Center at Hunter’s Woods.
DATA Recognizes Commitment to Mobility
On Thursday, May 17, the Dulles Area Transportation Association (DATA) held its 26th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Ceremony at the Hilton Washington Dulles Airport Hotel (13869 Park Center Road in Herndon) to recognize employers and individuals who are committed to improving mobility throughout the region.
Tuesday, May 22
Herndon Hosts Bike-to-Work Day
Downtown one of 58 local pit stops for annual event.
Hundreds of bikers who decided to forego their cars during their commute were welcomed in downtown Herndon Friday, May 18, one of 58 pit stops around the Washington, D.C. area during the day. The day was the culmination of National Bike to Work Week, and last year’s Bike to Work Day featured more than 11,000 participants locally.
USDA Under Secretary Visits Frying Pan
Kevin Concannon announces new grant opportunities for markets.
Kevin Concannon, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services visited the Frying Pan Farm Park Farmer’s Market Thursday, May 17. In addition to visiting with local vendors and shoppers, he announced new grant opportunities for states to purchase Electronic Benefit Transfer wireless technology for the markets.
Supporting Friendly, Instant, Sympathetic Help
Herndon-Reston FISH hosts annual fundraiser.
Most guests at the annual Herndon-Reston FISH Fling Saturday, May 19 were already familiar with the work done by Friendly Instant Sympathetic Help. George Buckfield of Centreville wasn’t very familiar, but it didn’t take long into dinner for him to realize their impact.
Reston Town Center Hosts Fine Arts Festival
21st annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival features 200 artists.
More than 20 years ago, artist Dana Ann Scheurer was part of the very first Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival. The primarily watercolor artist is still part of the festival, which celebrated its 21st year at Reston Town Center.
Reston Opens Children’s Tennis Courts
Six courts for children created from two previous regulation courts.
The Reston Association opened six junior sized tennis courts near Lake Anne Saturday, May 19, allowing the youngest members of the community a chance to get a head start on the game. The courts are for children 10 and under, and were built out of two existing courts at the North Shore Tennis Courts.
Cassella Foundation Runs Third Annual 5K
Event raises $45,000 for family of 1-year-old with liver cancer.
In her year on the Earth, Gianna Hess has already been through more than enough medical procedures. She was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a rare form of liver cancer, and on Feb. 21 had a biopsy done, which confirmed that the cancer had spread, in the form of three lung nodules.
Herndon Hosts Annual Festival May 31-June 3
Festival Features free Entertainment, fireworks and carnival.
Herndon will host its 32nd annual Herndon Festival May 31 to June 3, attracting more than 80,000 metropolitan Washington, D.C. residents to one of the area’s largest admission free festivals.
Editorial: Remembering on Memorial Day
Time to honor, also time to ensure proper care of veterans.
In February, Brig. Gen. Terence J. Hildner, 49, of Fairfax, was the highest ranking military officer to die in the war on terror.
Column: Living Longer, Sort of Prospering
Though my column has appeared in the newspaper as usual the last few weeks, I haven’t felt much like writing. Typically, I’m weeks ahead with my column inventory, having regularly found the time and inclination to put pen to paper and provide the prose you regular readers have come to expect.
Thursday, May 17
Fairfax Edges South Lakes Baseball in Final Inning
King homers for Seahawks, knocks in four runs.
In a hard-fought road contest for the South Lakes High baseball team, the Seahawks were defeated last Tuesday night, May 8 by the Fairfax Rebels, who came from behind in the bottom of the seventh inning to win the Liberty District game 8-7.
Herndon High Lacrosse
All-Concorde District Honors
Both the Herndon High girls’ and boys’ lacrosse teams were well-represented in recent All-Concorde District selection recognition for the spring season. The All-District Teams were announced during the halftime intermissions of last Friday night’s Concorde District girls’ and boys’ finals games at Chantilly High School. The Oakton High girls won their title game contest in the double-header championship night’s first game with a victory over Centreville. In the nightcap finals game, the Oakton boys defeated Westfield.
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Wednesday, May 16
Opening Doors for People in Need
FACETS celebrates volunteers, donors at annual benefit breakfast.
Surrounded by nearly 350 business executives, politicians and community leaders in the chandeliered ballroom of the Waterford, Frank Somers - dressed in jeans, sneakers and a denim work shirt - looked a little out of place.
Week in Reston
Things happening in Reston.
Obituary: Elizabeth Hyland, 84, of Reston, Dies
Elizabeth Hyland, 84, an author who wrote extensively about schizophrenia and was a past president of the Writers of Chantilly literary organization, died April 22 at Cameron Glen nursing home in Reston. She had cancer.
Obituary: Natalie Dorolyn (Dee) Cotton, 88, of Reston, Dies
Former Reston activist Natalie Dorolyn (Dee) Cotton, 88, passed away May 4, 2012 following a stroke in Fredericksburg, Va., where she had moved in January.
Exploring the Early History of Reston
Program to present Initial Planning Ideas and Creation of the Master Plan.
The Reston Historic Trust (RHT) and the Reston Museum are exploring the early history Reston. Reston Museum is producing another free program in May, to be presented at the JoAnn Rose Gallery at Reston Community Center - Lake Anne, "The Early History of Reston – Creation of the Plan," Thursday, May 24, from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Letter: Misrepresentation in ‘Voter Identification’
Letter to the Editor
Jack Kenny’s column ["Voter Identification," Reston Connection, May 9-15, 2012] is so full of untruths that it would require more space than is available here to refute them all.
Aldrin Elementary Teacher Recognized
Christine Lewis, advanced academic resource teacher at Aldrin Elementary, has been recognized as the Region 4 Outstanding Teacher of the Gifted by the Virginia Association for the Gifted (VAG).
Hopecam Holds 5k Run/Walk
Benefiting children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
For the twelfth year in a row, Hopecam hosted their annual Hopecam 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, May 6, to benefit the charity’s program
Column: History Repeating Itself
This week I complete teaching a six-week course for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at George Mason University on "highlights of Virginia’s history." I have been meeting with more than 80 students at the JoAnne Rose Gallery in Reston.
Column: Blame Game with the Silver Line
After waiting 50 years for the rail link down the median reserved for it from Dulles Airport to Falls Church, construction finally began. Many actually believed it would be a reality shortly.
Artists Take Over Reston Town Center
The 21st Annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival to be held May 18-20.
The Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) revealed its list of artists set to illuminate Reston Town Center for the 21st Annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival on weekend May 18-20.
Art Fair at McNair Elementary
On May 8, McNair Elementary in Herndon, hosted an Art Fair for grades K-6. Students’ artwork was displayed in matted frames, and hung in the library.
Families Fight For Northern Virginia Training Center
Center provides care to more than 150 residents with disabilities.
Susan Infeld, a registered nurse, remembers vividly the night she knew she had to get involved with the Northern Virginia Training Center. She was working as a hospice nurse at a local hospital when a patient from NVTC came in suffering from pneumonia in the middle of the night.
Reston Smart Market Returns
Market features guaranteed producer-only products.
The Reston Smart Market, featuring guaranteed producer-only produce, meats, dairy and other goods has kicked off for the summer season. This year’s incarnation has a few new vendors, and Jean Janssen of Smart Markets says the new additions help fulfill some of their goals.
Raising Funds for Back Health
Virginia Spine Institute hosts fundraising 5K.
In his 20s Ray Pugsley was a national-level runner, in competition to compete in the 1992 and 1996 Olympic games. But he hurt his back in 1996 and underwent a procedure then, and another one in 2003. While that might seem like something that could end his running career, Pugsley has flourished since then.
Searching for Great Falls’ Biggest Trees
Third annual Big Tree Hike features some of the largest trees in the state.
As part of a running group, Bob Vickers was familiar with the land along the Potomac River owned by the Potomac Conservatory. So when he heard about a contest looking for the biggest tree in Great Falls, he knew exactly where to look.
Tuesday, May 15
Game On
George Mason University students develop video games aimed at curtailing gang recruitment in Virginia.
Law enforcement officials now have two unlikely weapons in the fight against gang activity in Virginia: video games and college students.
Editorial: Most Endangered?
Potomac River has made great strides, has miles to go to save the Bay.
Unless your home is served by well water, you are almost certainly among the five million people in the Washington Metropolitan area who get their drinking water from the Potomac River.
Column: “Psycho-not-so-matic” Anymore
Whatever I thought was only happening in my head – or not, or was really happening physically – or not, is the muddled description of the thoughts and emotions that this cancer survivor/cancer patient-still-receiving-treatment feels every time I make a 24/7 self assessment (which is often).
Friday, May 11
Bull Riding Comes to Frying Pan Park
On Saturday April 28, the Friends of Frying Pan Park, in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority, sponsored a professional Bull Riding Event at Frying Pan’s Indoor Arena. Dozens of bulls and riders entertained a sold-out crowd of 1,200 fans with their feats of athleticism.
Mother's Day 2012
We asked our readers to submit photos in honor of Mother's Day, which is on May 13.
Local Real Estate: March 2012 Top Sales in Herndon, Oak Hill, Reston, Vienna and Oakton
Local Real Estate: March 2012 Top Sales in Herndon, Oak Hill, Reston, Vienna and Oakton
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Thursday, May 10
Presidential Visit to Washington-Lee
President Barack Obama made his first visit to Washington-Lee High School on Friday, May 4.
Northern Virginia Bill Signing Puts Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence in Spotlight
A rare moment of bipartisanship between Republican governor and Democratic legislators.
Strangulation will be punished more aggressively to combat violence against women. Campus police will work with other police agencies to crack down on domestic violence of unmarried couples. And the telephone number for a human trafficking hotline will be placed in the restrooms at strip clubs across Virginia.
Wednesday, May 9
Blankets, Bingo and Budgets During Take Your Child to Work Day
More than forty children learned about debits and credits, examined a legal document and employment application, checked out the inside of a computer and took a tour of the facilities during the "Take Your Child to Work Day" event at Sallie Mae in Reston.
Comcast Cares Day Volunteers Help Out
Stephen Deans and mother, Comcast Customer Service Center Supervisor Patricia Deans pitched in alongside more than 50 volunteers to help "spruce up" the playground area at the Reston Interfaith Laurel Learning Center on Saturday, April 21, as part of the 11th annual Comcast Cares Day.
Volunteers Repair Community Garden Plot Pathways
Some community gardeners in Reston will now have an easier and safer trip to their garden plots, thanks to volunteers from a structural engineering firm. Haynes Whaley Associates' eight-person team made repairs to the connecting pathway between the garden plots.
Column: All Aboard!
The buzzards are circling again! They see a struggling Phase II of the Dulles Metrorail Silver Line and are ready to swoop in to clean the bones of the project.
United Christian Parish To Dedicate New Building With Concert
The world premiere of a choral piece written for the dedication of the new United Christian Parish sanctuary will take place at a concert on Friday, May 25, at 7:30 p.m. at the church located at 11508 North Shore Drive, Reston. The concert is free and the public is invited.
Challenging the World
Two Reston teams advance to Odyssey of the Mind World Finals.
Your problem, should you choose to accept it, is this: Use a word or words to make a first and last name. You must relate this name to an occupation. You will have one minute to think and three minutes to respond. You must be creative. Boring responses will not earn you a point. Examples of creative responses are: Minnie Ster is a pastor, Clara Net is a musician or Ali Gator is a marine biologist.
Science and Math Night at Armstrong Elementary
Armstrong Elementary School held a Science and Math Night on Thursday, April 26.
FISH Fling 2012 to Honor Volunteers
Herndon-Reston FISH (Friendly Sympathetic Instant Help) will be holding its 7th Annual Fling on Saturday, May 19, at the Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport Hotel in Herndon.
Week in Herndon
Things happening in Herndon.
Herndon Has It All
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who came out to vote on Tuesday, and placed their trust in me to provide solid, forward thinking leadership to the Town of Herndon for the next two years.
Herndon Farmers Market Opens
The Herndon Farmers Market kicked off the season on a cold and dreary day.
Herndon Elementary Turns 50
Golden anniversary brings past and present together to share school culture.
Over fifty years the thousands of children’s feet walking up and down the stairs at Herndon Elementary School [HES] have worn indents in the stone steps. Those patches are a testament to the strength of repetition and consistence, two attributes that can also be ascribed to education at the school.
Merkel Elected Mayor of Herndon
2012-14 Council features three incumbents, two past councilmembers.
Lisa Merkel was elected Mayor of Herndon Tuesday, May 1, and Connie Hutchinson, Melissa Jonas, Dave Kirby, Sheila Olem, Charlie Waddell and Grace Wolf were elected to the Herndon Town Council for the 2012-14 term.
Worldgate Hosts Women’s Racquetball
World tournament takes place over three days at Sport and Health.
Worldgate Sport and Health hosted more than 20 of the world’s top-ranked professional racquetball players last weekend, welcoming the Women’s Professional Racquetball Tour for the second year in a row.
Towne Square Singers Celebrate 30th Anniversary
Group performs ‘Down Memory Lane,’ a look at concerts of the past.
When it came time for the Herndon Towne Square Singers to celebrate their 30th anniversary, they knew they wanted to look to the past. The problem was, with three decades worth of shows to pull from, it wasn’t easy.
Nature House Hosts Spring Festival
Outdoor activities, displays featured at annual festival.
Outdoor and nature enthusiasts of all ages flocked to the Walker Nature Education Center Saturday, May 5 for the annual Spring Festival. Stations were scattered around the center and the adjacent paths allowing children to participate in a variety of natural activities, including stream monitoring, plant identification and fishing in nearby Lake Audubon.
Lake Anne Hosts ‘Out of Place’
Exhibit inspired by history, architecture of Reston.
As dozens gathered around Lake Anne Sunday evening for the dance performance for the Reston Museum’s "Out of Place" exhibit, many had no idea what they were looking for. Which is why, when a male and female in matching white shirts started walking along the dock, at first no one paid attention.
Tuesday, May 8
Haddad Ballet Presents ‘The Snow Queen’
Performance will be studios fourth in Great Falls, first since 2006.
The Margaret Haddad Studio of Classical Ballet will present "The Snow Queen" at the Madeira School in McLean Saturday, May 12. This is the fourth time Haddad has put on the show since coming to Great Falls and the first since 2006.
Old Brogue Hosts Reston Smile Partners Fundraiser
Event raises funds for pro bono lab work for Reston Interfaith clients.
The Old Brogue hosted a fundraiser Tuesday, May 1 for Reston Smile Partners, which operates in partnership with Reston Interfaith to provide pro bono dental care for their clients.
Volunteer Fire Department Celebrates 70 Years
New firehouse hosts anniversary celebration.
Milburn Sanders, 90, joined the Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department (then known as the Forestville Fire Department) seven days after it opened on May 5, 1952. Seventy years later, he was part of the celebration at a new building, with generations of volunteer and career firefighters that came after him.
Sharing Their Love of the Sport
South Lakes boys’ lacrosse set to conduct summer youth camps again.
The South Lakes High boys' lacrosse team has experienced good success on the field this spring. This summer, the Seahawks, under head coach Craig Lunde, plan to once again share their winning ways and knowledge of the sport to youth lacrosse players throughout the Herndon and Reston areas with their South Lakes Lacrosse Summer Camps sessions.
The Best Seats Outside the House
Local designers offer tips for creating a spectacular patio or deck.
Warm weather means more time spent lounging by the pool or grilling on the patio. A winter-worn outdoor space can make popular warm weather pastimes less than appealing. Creating a space that provides both comfort and style can be a daunting undertaking. Local designers are offering suggestions for creating a luxurious retreat fit for relaxing or outdoor entertaining.
Housing Discrimination Alert
Officials step up education, outreach efforts to reach immigrant communities about "fair housing" rights.
Housing discrimination cases have been on the rise in Fairfax County in the past few years. And the Office of Human Rights and Equity Programs (OHREP), the agency that enforces fair housing laws in the county, is shining a spotlight on the problem through seminars for housing providers, realtors, community groups and other interested parties. "Sadly, housing discrimination is alive and well and we’ve seen an uptick in complaints during the past six years," said Kenneth Saunders, executive director of OHREP.
Editorial: Transparency, Technology and Tolls
With E-Z Pass transponder on the windshield, you should know what you're about to pay; whatever it is, it's going up.
Despite the high number of drivers in Northern Virginia who already have an E-Z Pass transponder, when the HOT-Lanes open on the Beltway, there will be pressure for many more drivers to subscribe.
Column: “I’m Fine”
Mostly. All things considered, and as a stage IV (terminal) lung cancer patient, it’s impossible – for me, to not consider all things.
Friday, May 4
Thursday, May 3
Local Safety Net Clinics Seek a Few Good Doctors
Specialty care physicians and other medical professionals needed to serve low income, uninsured patients.
When Marie Markey of Alexandria retired from U.S. Air Force as a physical therapist, she rolled up her sleeves and went to work helping those in need. Markey works as a volunteer twice each week at the Arlington Free Clinic, offering physical therapy to the clinic’s low income and uninsured patients.
Volunteers Honored for Efforts
Four locals receive Community Champions Awards for Health Care and Social Services to the Community.
Four Northern Virginia volunteers were honored for their charitable efforts recently. Edward Shahin of McLean, Marie Markey of Alexandria and Mattie Palmore and Kari Warren of Mt. Vernon received the Molina Healthcare Community Champions Award during a ceremony at the at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in Fairfax.
South Lakes Baseball Loses Tough One to Langley
But earlier in the week, King homers to lead Seahawks in sweep over Jefferson.
For the second time this season, the South Lakes Seahawks baseball team battled the Langley Saxons (9-7 record) but came up just short in a 5-3 loss. The Liberty District game took place last Friday night, April 27 at Langley.
Northern Region Sports Notes (May 2-8)
Fairfax Adult Softball signup; Wildcats baseball hosting benefit game; McLean tennis rolling; Langley softball wins.
The Centreville High varsity baseball team will be hosting a fundraiser to benefit the Washington, D.C. chapter of Operation Homefront during its home game on Tuesday, May 8 against Concorde District rival Oakton.
Wednesday, May 2
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Editorial: Reminders to Press Ahead for Housing
Spring discussion on hypothermia shelters could help preparations for winter.
In February, 2007, 59-year-old Robert Bruce Miller was found dead outdoors in Chantilly. Miller was homeless, known to businesses and residents in the area. He died of hypothermia, exposure to the cold.
SLHS Scores a Success with ‘West Side Story’
Romeo and Juliet are waiting for you to come see them at South Lakes High School. In addition to the "Star-Crossed Lovers," you’ll also get to see and hear lavish production numbers with "A Cast of Thousands" and a lot of gorgeous music.
Nature House Race Draws a Crowd - and Bob Simon
Hundreds of Restonians showed their love of their Nature House Saturday morning by participating in a charity race.
Letter: Never Enough
Letter to the Editor
Once again the Democrat-majority Fairfax County Board of Supervisors gives the hard-pressed taxpayer one in the eye. With the nation’s public debt heading into the stratosphere, yet more money is to be taken from those that actually pay taxes (primarily homeowners) to sate the supervisors’ appetites. But wait, Supervisor Hudgins (Hunter Mill District) has come up with a novel justification.
Letter: Learning from Mistakes
Letter to the Editor
In response to Ms. Elaine Montgomery’s letter (Letters to the Editor, The Reston Connection, April 25-May 1, 2012), I make two points. One, reproductive rights are given to us by our Creator – a point of view not necessarily ascribed to by those with the existential mindset that sex is paramount and reproduction of the human species secondary. It is disingenuous on the part of Ms. Fluke to include recreational sex as a part of reproduction rights. I believe we are learning that reproduction is critical to maintaining a viable democracy – something our offspring may face by 2050.
Joining Kidney Walk in Reston
Chris and Rachel Blevins and their son Logan at the 2nd Annual Northern Virginia Kidney Walk held in Reston on April 22. Logan was born with congenital nephrotic syndrome.
Golf Tournament to Benefit Wounded Warrior Transitional Housing Project
The Navy Marine Coast Guard Residence Foundation (NMCGRF) will host its 26th Annual Golf Classic at Reston National Golf Course on Tuesday, May 8, and golfers are invited to participate.
Column: Higher Education Funding Squeeze
A favorite target for budget cutters in Virginia and other states during the economic recession has been higher education. While public institutions of higher education rely on state funding, there are other sources of funds available to them, the most obvious being tuition and fees.
‘Glimmer of Hope for the Future’
Local Man in May 5 VisionWalk.
Centreville’s John McKeown has never seen his children’s faces and he always pictures his wife as being 28. That’s because retinitis pigmentosa (RP) – a genetic condition causing degeneration of the retina and eventual vision loss – caused him to go blind.
Ferrari Club Holds Annual Spring Thaw
The Mid-Atlantic Region of the Ferrari Club of America held their Annual Spring Thaw event in Reston Town Center on Saturday, April 14. The weather cooperated brilliantly and the cars, parked along Market Street as well as in the Pavilion itself, sparkled in the sunshine. The pedestrianized street was crowded with people checking out the vehicles and stopping to take photos of themselves and family members in front of cars both new and classic. There were many local entries, as well as cars from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and even Florida on display.
South Lakes Principal Retiring in June
After 31 years as teacher and administrator, Butler is stepping down.
After 31 years as teacher and administrator, South Lakes Principal Bruce Butler is retiring. Butler’s last day will be June 29.
Timeless Story at Herndon High
"Pride and Prejudice," A classic romance seen in a whole new way.
Take one overbearing mother, add a cup of devilishly handsome men, two teaspoons of pretty-and witty-girls, and put in just a pinch of romance, deception, and unceasing humor and charm: sounds like the perfect recipe for a dramatic soap opera. But this is no daytime television show: this is Jane Austen! Herndon High School took Austen’s classic novel and placed it up on the stage in their performance of "Pride and Prejudice."
Tuesday, May 1
Herndon High Hosts Youth Drinking Forum
Panel discussion, video highlight latest trends in teenage drinking.
Herndon High School hosted "The Perils of the College Drinking Culture" Tuesday, April 24, a forum discussing the consequences of alcohol use with students and parents in the community. The event, hosted by the Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County, featured facts about the social, legal and physical consequences of alcohol use.
Helping Students Deal With Stress
‘Stress Less, Laugh More’ campaign comes to South Lakes, other area schools.
As AP and final exams loom closer than ever for area students, the administration of South Lakes High School spent last week trying to create an atmosphere that promotes mental wellness.
Reston Volunteers Recognized
Local residents, organizations honored at annual Volunteer Service Awards.
Several Reston residents and organizations were honored at the 20th annual Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards Friday, April 27. The United Christian Parish, a faith-based group consisting of four denominations as well as Richard and Peg Brown, Sarah Samuel and Jean Pacelli were all awarded during the ceremony.
Day Determined to Build a Football Winner at Herndon
New Hornets' head coach wants team to be physically tough.
After being a part of two Northern Regional football titles, two state championships and six district crowns while serving as an assistant coach over the years at Concorde District high schools Westfield and Centreville, Brian Day, this past January, accepted the position as new head football coach at fellow Concorde rival Herndon High.
South Lakes' Lacrosse Clinches a Winning Season
Despite being undermanned, Seahawk boys defeat Liberty foe Highlanders.
Despite being far from 100 percent healthy, the South Lakes High boys' lacrosse team assured itself of a winning record this season by defeating McLean High last Thursday night, April 26, by a 9-7 score in the Liberty District contest played at South Lakes.
Column: News That’s Fit To Print
As our Publisher and fellow cancer survivor, Mary Kimm, e-mailed back to me last week: “Who knew ‘stable’ could be so exciting?”