Stories for July 2013

Stories for July 2013

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Wednesday, July 31

“Chemo-Nosabe”

Although I’ve not seen the current “The Lone Ranger” theatrical release, I am of a certain age and generation who grew up watching – on black and white television with no remote control and only three watchable channels – the original “The Lone Ranger” (starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels), along with other weekday-afternoon and Saturday-morning classics like “The Rifleman,” “Roy Rogers,” “Sky King,” “Superman,” “Leave It To Beaver” and “Ozzie and Harriet” – in my house, anyway. And though the “effects” weren’t nearly as “special” as they are in today’s movie/television productions/versions, nevertheless, the effects on me, personally, were far greater. Can you say wholesome goodness? The Golden Rule? Do unto others…

‘Regionality’ of Transportation Projects Questioned

Transportation Authority approves FY2014 Project List.

“Tonight we acted to address one of the greatest threats to our region: Congestion.” So spoke Marty Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Coles District supervisor for Prince William County. Despite numerous calls to slow down the process by speakers at the public hearing before the Authority, on Wednesday, July 24, the NVTA approved the FY2014 proposed regional multimodal project list as presented and vetted by the NVTA’s Project Implementation Working Group (PIWG) headed by Authority member (and Arlington County Board Member) Christopher Zimmerman.

A Delicate Balance – At Home

How appropriate is it to tell a cancer patient something negative (that he likely doesn’t want to hear) – yet needs to know, and which might ultimately quash his fighting spirit and adversely affect his day – and night? Moreover, would withholding certain discouraging observations intermittently along the cancer-treatment way, in order for said patient to feel good and positive about himself – and better prepare him for any and all news/results which might upset his precariously imperfect life and moreover, likely chip away at his emotional wherewithal as well – cause more harm than 100-percent honesty all the time?

Silence of the Court

Justices deny public access to shield personal conversations.

The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments. Unlike the U.S. Supreme Court, which denies video recordings but allows audio recordings, the commonwealth's top appeals court has a complete blackout on public access to proceedings. In a written response to questions from Connection Newspapers, the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Virginia Supreme Court explained that audio records were once public, but the installation of new equipment in January 2008 created new concerns for justices.

Keeping Pets Safe

Veterinary experts say common household items can harm animals.

Did you know that a bowl of grapes sitting on your counter can be fatal to your dog or that a bouquet of fragrant lilies could be lethal to a cat? Were you aware that a stick of gum might cause a life-threatening canine emergency? Veterinary experts say that while pet hazards are lurking around almost every home, many pet owners are unaware of them. From favorite foods to over-the-counter-pain relievers, a number of common household items are dangerous to family pets.

The Pampered Pooch

Luxury accessories for well-heeled canines.

Marcia Schwartz strolled through the handbag section at a high-end department store at Tysons Galleria in McLean, Va., her eyes taking in the latest offerings from Prada. The companion at her side was not a personal shopper or a credit card-clad husband, however. It was a snow-white fuzzball with a rhinestone-encrusted collar named Cleopatra. Cleo, as she is most often called, is a Bichon Frisé.

For the Love of Animals

From taking orders in a pizza shop to finding homes for thousands of animals, the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation has a great "tail" to tell.

In 2001, there were too many dogs without homes and too few people to help them.

Tuesday, July 30

Classified Advertising July 31, 2013

Read the lastest ads here!

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Hinds Feet Ministries Celebrates 15 Years of Service to Liberia

Local nonprofit performs outreach to Liberia.

Trypetus Cooper Padmore spent her formative years living around the world. A native of Liberia, she spent time in Great Britain and the United Stated during her school years. She left Liberia with her family after the military coup in 1980.

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Cindy’s Legacy to Host 2nd Annual Golf Clinic

Nonprofit supports families and patients affected by cancer.

Cindy’s Legacy, a nonprofit dedicated to providing services for families affected by cancer, will host its second annual golf clinic at the Herndon Centennial Golf Course Friday, Aug. 9.

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Herndon Town Calendar Photos Chosen

Local photographers recognized at ArtSpace.

The walls of ArtSpace Herndon are currently decorated with almost 60 photos of Herndon’s signature moments. From large events such as the Herndon festival, to the simple pleasure of two children holding hands on a brisk fall day, local photographers submitted their shots for inclusion in the town’s annual calendar.

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Rotary Club of Great Falls Launches Foundation

Foundation will allow for tax deductible donations.

In their first two years, the Rotary Club of Great Falls has experienced almost unprecedented growth, quickly becoming one of the fastest growing clubs in Rotary International. Now they have taken the next step to reach deeper into the community, founding a 501(c)3, the Rotary Club of Great Falls, Virginia Foundation.

Unlocking the Door to Affordable Housing

County considers establishment of residential studio option to assist with housing affordability.

Like most areas that have seen explosive growth in the past 30 years, Fairfax County’s stock of affordable housing has dwindled as it’s grown into one of the nation’s wealthiest counties.

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From Dental Chair to Pool Party

Dr. Stephan Tisseront, specialist in orthodontics in Reston, held his 11th annual Pool Party for patients on Friday, July 19 at Lake Newport Pool in Reston.

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Joining Marines

Brandon A. Clifner, 18, of Reston, joined the United States Marine Corps on Monday July 22.

Much Remains to Be Done

Commentary

I grew up in my early years in a racially segregated Virginia. The State Constitution had a provision stating, “Mixed schools prohibited. White and colored children shall not be taught in the same school.”

Tom Wilkins— A Reston Special

Not long after I retired from the Foreign Service in 1994, I volunteered for the Democratic Party and found myself working the polls at Dogwood Elementary School on Election Day. That is where I met Dr. Thomas A. Wilkins.

Roessler Named County Police Chief

New police chief vows focus on diversity.

Edwin C. Roessler, named Fairfax County's police chief at Tuesday's Board of Supervisor's meeting, promised to launch a Diversity Council in an effort to recruit, promote and respond to Fairfax County's increasingly diverse community.

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Quilt Show Displays ‘Sacred Threads’

Some 231 handmade quilts exploring themes of spirituality, joy, inspiration, peace/brotherhood, grief and healing were displayed during the biennial Sacred Threads exhibition, July 10-28, at Floris United Methodist Church in Oak Hill.

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KidWX Connects Parents With Providers

Organization has an extensive online database of local resources from music classes to diabetes experts.

When Linda Nimmo and Jamie Finch were looking for resources for their children two years ago, they scoured the internet and local organizations for the right services. The effort was so time consuming that they both left their full-time corporate jobs and turned their quest into a way to help others.

Monday, July 29

Fairfax County Animal Shelter Temporarily Suspends Intake of Dogs

Canine influenza suspected culprit after dozen dogs become ill.

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter has temporarily suspended its intake of dogs, after one dog died of pneumonia and about a dozen more dogs have exhibited symptoms of an unspecified upper respiratory illness.

Thursday, July 25

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RSTA Regular Season Concludes With New Champion and Close Meet

It is said that all good things must come to an end and so it was on Saturday as the final meets of the Reston Swim Team Association (RSTA) regular season took place under a hot, humid day.

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Silence of the Court: Virginia Supreme Court Denies Access to Audio Recordings

Lack of transparency is explained as effort to shield personal conversations.

The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments.

Wednesday, July 24

Classified Advertising July 24, 2013

Read the lastest ads here!

Joining Together To Save Animals

There are dozens of animal welfare organizations across the country working to secure "forever homes" for dogs and cats of all ages. And while there's a general camaraderie amongst them, stemming from their common cause, what's a little friendly competition among peers? For the past few years, the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has sponsored a nationwide contest to challenge shelters to see how many more animals they could adopt between June and August beyond the total the year before.

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Nell and Magic

People and Pets

Don and Linda Rutledge sent us these pictures of their cat Nell, waiting to be served, and her brother, Magic, enjoying the pillow. They are 3 years old and are from the Fancy Cat Rescue in Herndon.

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Color on the Walls, Indoor and Out

ArtSpace Herndon recently drew 160 patrons into its galleries with the "It's a Matter of Color" exhibit artists reception and the Art in the Windows dedication of public art on the outdoor walls of the building.

Meet Best Friends of Reston

People and Pets

Reston sure loves its four-legged friends. Whether residents are walking them around Reston Town Center or heading to the Baron Cameron Dog Park, the sight of a Reston resident out and about with a furry companion is a common one, especially during the warmer months.

Commentary: Stemming Gun Violence

While President Obama in his statement about the Trayvon Martin case reminded us, “we are a nation of laws, and a jury has spoken,” he went on to say that “we should ask ourselves if we’re doing all we can to stem the tide of gun violence that claims too many lives across this country on a daily basis.”

To the Editor: Facts About Rec Center

The misinformation spilling out concerning a proposed recreation center for Reston is shielding the light that could be shining on the subject. No wonder that confusion is prevalent. I hope that presenting some factual information will help clear up the atmosphere and lead to a reasoned conclusion.

Obituary: Restonian William Nicoson, 81, Dies

Nicoson was one of the founders of the Connection Newspapers.

William Jarvie Nicoson, lawyer and first director of the New Community Assistance Program, US Department of Housing and Urban Development, died peacefully at his home in Reston on Sunday, July 7, after a long illness. He was 81.

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Falling in Love With Asia

A few months ago I was invited to attend a meeting of the Bull Terrier Rescue of Virginia, where I shared my latest book, “Dogs of War” (which included General Patton's bull terrier, Willie). One of the members told me about Asia, a young female bullie who had recently arrived from down south and was up for adoption.

The More You Know About the Rhino

Fifth grade environmental activist visits Reston.

Last Tuesday, 10-year-old Hannah Testa came to Reston to meet with Robert Simon, the founder of Reston, and to give presentations on the plight of the rhinos in South Africa. Hannah has single-handedly collected over 1,600 petitions for this cause and works diligently to educate children and adults about the need to protect the environment.

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Jerry's Subs Re-opens at North Point

Long time Restonians Franklin and Fred Kyle celebrated the grand re-opening of their newly purchased Jerry's Subs and Pizza at North Point Village Center Friday, July 19.

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Making Sure Children Don't Go Hungry

Our Daily Bread provides meals for children during summer break.

For most children, summer means the end of homework and tests, and the beginning of cookouts and carefree summer vacations.

Week in Reston

RN Golf Management, LLC , owners of Reston Golf Course, has requested an indefinitely deferral of their Appeal A-2012-HM-020, said Supervisor Cathy Hudgins (D-Hunter Mill).

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Obituary: Dr. Thomas Wilkins Dies at 83

For more than 40 years, Wilkins worked to better lives of those around Reston.

When Dr. Thomas Wilkins moved to Reston in 1969, he said he did so because it was “an island of equality in a sea of inequality.” Wilkins passed away Saturday, July 20 at the age of 83, having spent 44 years trying to make Reston a stronger community.

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Lake Anne Goes to the Dogs for Charity Dog Wash

Annual Dogtopia charity wash raises funds to train service dogs.

Trina Shaughnessy was with her dog Macro on their usual Sunday afternoon walk on North Shore Drive last weekend, when she heard an unmistakable sound coming from Lake Anne Plaza.

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Metro Silver Line Delayed

MWAA announces at least an eight-week delay in passenger service.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority announced an approximately eight-week delay in the completion of Phase One of the Silver Line.

Town Examines Herndon Parkway-Van Buren Street Intersection Improvements

Public comment open on three options for Herndon Parkway and Van Buren Street intersection.

The Town of Herndon hosted a public comment meeting Wednesday, July 17, to solicit suggestions on improvements for the intersection of Herndon Parkway and Van Buren Street.

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Mellow Mushroom Opens in Herndon

Pizza bakers offer wide selection of craft beer, pizzas, veggie and gluten free options.

Members of the Herndon Town Council and business community, not to mention those interested in a good pizza pie, were on hand for the opening of Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers on Elden Street Monday, July 22.

Monday, July 22

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Lost Dog: Helping Save Lives, One Pet at a Time

Area residents explain their dedication to the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation.

Behind every adoption successfully completed by the Arlington-based Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, there's a volunteer with a happy heart.

Friday, July 19

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Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill and Herndon

In May 2013, 140 homes sold between $1,600,000-$197,000 in the Vienna and Oakton area. 148 Reston homes sold between $1,655,000-$110,733 and 148 homes sold between $1,330,000-$150,000 in the Herndon

Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill and Herndon

Thursday, July 18

Reston Home Sales: June, 2013

In June 2013, 149 Reston homes sold between $1,558,000-$110,000.

Reston Home Sales: June, 2013

Editorial: Share Wisdom With Newcomers and Others

The Connection's Newcomers and Community Guide publishes in late August.

Our Insider's Edition Newcomers and Community Guides, will publish the last week of August. What tips do you have for someone getting to know your community? We're hoping to share the places, activities, events, organizations and volunteer opportunities your neighbors might not know about. What great places and activities do you want your new neighbors to know about? Events that should not be missed? Organizations that do a great job? Places to volunteer? Tips for navigating your PTA or your school’s front office? We'd love to have your photos to go along with your suggestions.

Wednesday, July 17

Commentary: McDonnell Sets a New Low

—In Virginia, Who Cares?

The daily discoveries of more unethical and corrupt behavior by Governor Bob McDonnell continue to pile up. Most recent are the two grant “loans” to Bob and wife Maureen, each for more than what the average Virginian earns in a year, a Rolex for Bob, a New York fashion shopping spree for Maureen and gifts for two daughters’ weddings. These gifts are all from a wealthy donor involved in million-dollar-litigation with Virginia who is getting first family promotion of his diet supplement business to boost stock prices. All in all, the total undisclosed cash, loans, lodging, gifts, etc. in McDonnell’s enrichment scheme is estimated at $270,000 … so far.

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Reston, Herndon Teachers Attend Williamsburg Workshops on American History

Seven social studies teachers in area schools have been selected to attend the 2013 Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute in American History. One of them had to decline at the last minute due to a family medical issue.

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Firecracker 5K for the Troops

The USO of Metropolitan Washington, a nonprofit providing support services and programs to area military members and their families, benefited on Independence Day as the charity of choice during the annual Firecracker 5K for the Troops race at Reston Town Center.

Letter: Reducing Storm Water Runoff

To the Editor: In recent years Reston took an admirable effort to restore its streams. Highly effective in certain respects, the renewal allowed for improvement in important stream functions. The flood plane was evened out, a meadow ecosystem was created, the riffle-flow system slowed the streams flow rate, and the area was generally beautified.

Teaching Girls the Value of Science

The Girls Excelling in Math and Science (GEMS) Club Initiative, Nova Labs, and the Mid-Atlantic Girls Collaborative (MAGiC) have announced a new project: The Girl Makers of Northern Virginia.

Week in Reston

Police have charged one adult and three juveniles in connection with the June 7 robbery and assault near Pinecrest Road. The adult, Ali Lewis, 19 of Freetown Court, Reston was charged with robbery on June 21.

Theresa Marie Christian and James Hays-Wehle Engaged

Theresa Marie Christian, daughter of Eliot and Marcia Christian of Reston, is engaged to James Hays-Wehle, son of Edward Hays and Sarah Wehle of Milton, Mass.

Commentary: Making College Affordable

Members of the college graduating class of 2013 will average more than $35,000 in total debt, according to a study reported recently by CNN. The bulk of the debt is in government loans, but private, state and personal and family loans along with credit card debt contribute to the total.

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Making a Critical Point

Restonian joins area friends in forming, running their own theatre.

Two local recent college grads have eschewed the traditional post-collegiate path of endless interviews and internships for something a little more creative. Julia Katz and Alex Burns, of Falls Church and Reston, respectively, along with Deborah Cline, a former classmate, have decided to follow up their undergraduate studies by founding a theatre company. Additionally, the company’s ensemble features Matthew Schott, also of Reston.

Letter: Climate Change


An Existential Threat

To the Editor: It would be difficult to overstate the importance of the president’s bold new plan to cope with climate change, through maximum use of his executive authority to by-pass GOP obstructionism.

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Gun Control Vigil Continues

Every month, supporters of gun regulation hold a vigil outside of the NRA headquarters to honor the victims of shootings, as well as urge Congress to take action. The vigil takes place on the 14th of every month, which is the date of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting.

Virginia Voters Get More Choices in 2013

Northern Virginia has most two-party races on ballot.

While the Virginia governor’s race is the one getting the most attention, both nationally and in the state, Virginia’s House of Delegates race is shaping up to be the most competitive in a decade.

Classified Advertising July 17, 2013

Read the lastest ads here!

Tuesday, July 16

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Reston Nature House Hosts Energy Fair

Alternative energy on display at Reston fair.

Environmental enthusiasts from Reston and beyond gathered at the Walker Nature Education Center Sunday, July 14, for the first Reston Energy Fair.

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Town of Herndon Awards Contracts for Downtown Work

Improvements will be along Station Street and Pine Street.

The Herndon Town Council awarded contracts for two major downtown projects at their Tuesday, July 9 meeting. The first project will underground utilities along Station Street.

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Ukulele Festival Comes to Lake Anne

Fourth annual Northern Virginia Ukulele Festival features variety of acts.

Lake Anne welcomed hundreds of ukulele enthusiasts Saturday, July 13 for the fourth annual Northern Virginia Ukulele Festival. For Heath Murphy of Reston, it was a chance to embrace his budding hobby.

Thursday, July 11

Editorial: More Than Disclosure Needed for Virginia

Time for limits on campaign contributions as well.

At least until after November’s election, most candidates in Virginia seem to think that there should be some reform to Virginia’s campaign finance and disclosure rules. At least it seems likely that most will support expanding disclosure rules to require disclosure of gifts to immediate family members as well as candidates/officials.

Wednesday, July 10

Sounds of Summer at Reston Town Center

In spite of the summer heat, the Reston Town Center free summer concerts still prove to be quite the draw for locals. The concert on July 6 was no exception as crowds gathered at the Town Center’s pavilion and went as far back as the fountain for the evening’s entertainment: David Akers and the Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra.

Week in Herndon

A public information meeting will be held to present proposed improvements planned for the intersection of Herndon Parkway and Van Buren Street. Attendees will be able to review options, learn how the plans address intersection congestion, ask questions and provide comments.

Week in Reston

Hunter Mill District Supervisor Cathy Hudgins announced city planner and smart growth advocate Jeff Speck will be the keynote speaker at a community forum entitled “Understanding Urbanization: Building on Reston’s Past to Future to Help Create Its Future.”

Commentary: Voting Rights Need Protection

The Supreme Court had an historic week recently with major decisions on gay marriage, immigration and voting. I am particularly concerned about the decision that I believe does major damage to the Voting Rights Act.

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Reston Native, FCPS Alumni Collaborate in Critical Point Theatre

Matthew Schott, a Reston native, is one of several recent Virginia Tech graduates and Fairfax County Public Schools alumni collaborating together in the form of Critical Point Theatre. Schott, one of the ensemble’s founding members, will star in the group’s first performance, "The Pavilion," which will run in a mid-Atlantic tour in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and several other Virginia locations.

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A Standout Season for Reston Swimmers

Glade and Autumnwood rally together for some friendly competition.

The Fourth of July was not the only spirited event this past weekend. On July 6 the pool was packed with spectators as the Glade Gators took on the Autumnwood Piranhas during the fifth swim meet of the season. Car windows were laden with paint and homemade posters lined the fences. The energy from each team was certainly palpable, but never adversarial. There have been numerous hard fought wins and broken records this summer, but the Reston Swim Team Association holds community in the highest regard.

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Checkpoint of Friendships

Reston residents with Berlin experience host German students.

Reston’s international ties were recently made a little stronger when three high school students from Berlin, Germany made their first trip to the United States on July 1. Two longtime Reston residents hosted the students during their weeklong stay.

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Troop 158 Celebrates 35 Years

On June 30, Troop 158 of Herndon celebrated its 35th anniversary in conjunction with the 2013 Summer Court of Honor. More than 120 people—including a number of former Troop 158 members, Eagle Scouts, adults who were scoutmasters, troop committee members, and their families—gathered to honor achievements, share memories and compare experiences from their time with the troop.

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County Libraries Promote Summer Reading

Fairfax County Public Library began its 2013 Summer Reading Program on June 18, three days before the official first day of summer. Ted Kavich, Program and Educational Services manager for the Fairfax County Public Library, is directing this year’s program. “This will be my third year running the summer reading program,” said Kavich. “Our program involves more than 20 library branches with sponsors and performers,” said Kavich. “It has been a regular thing, and kids and parent look forwards to it. … We partner with the schools in this because we do not want kids to loose their reading and vocabulary skills.”

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W&OD Trail Lighting Proposed for Town of Herndon

Project would light 3,800 feet of trail within town borders.

The Town of Herndon’s Department of Parks and Recreation will begin to seek public comment on a proposal to light a 3,800- foot section of the W&OD Trail.

Tuesday, July 9

Petersen to Governor: Explain, Deny, Return or Resign

Petersen first Virginia legislator to suggest McDonnell resign over alleged wrongdoing in accepting gifts from prominent donor.

The tipping point for state Sen. J. Chap Petersen (D-34) was the $6,500 Rolex watch.

Monday, July 8

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Terry McAulife Launches Healthcare Platform at Inova Alexandria Hospital

Affordable Care Act is a key point of distinction between candidates for governor.

Democratic candidate for governor Terry McAuliffe found himself in the emergency room this week, but it wasn't because of a medical crisis.

Thursday, July 4

Classified Advertising July 3, 2013

Read the latest ads here!

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Hybrid Outrage at the Department of Motor Vehicles

Two legislators vow to introduce effort to repeal new tax on hybrid vehicles.

Suzanne Cleary has owned a hybrid vehicle since 2006, making her an early adopter and a proselytizer to her friends and neighbors.

Tuesday, July 2

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NVTC Hosts Hot Ticket Awards

Annual awards recognize “hot” technology businesses.

Guests at the annual Northern Virginia Technology Council’s annual Hot Ticket Awards came dressed for a beach but weathered a brief summer storm Wednesday, June 26 in McLean.

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IPAR Unveils Latest Project at Reston Hyatt

Aluminum statue to be placed in front of Hyatt at Reston Town Center.

The Initiative for Public Art-Reston gave a preview of its latest project Wednesday, June 26, with a presentation of the sculpture that will soon be placed in the park across from the Hyatt Regency Reston in Reston Town Center.

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Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce Presents Annual ACE Awards

Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce swears in new board.

The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce welcomed a new board and handed out their annual ACE Awards at the Sheraton Reston Thursday, June 27.

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Shelter House Presents Changing Lives Awards

Awards given to individuals and organizations, new board sworn in. jumphead

Shelter House, a Herndon-based nonprofit that serves those affected by homelessness and domestic abuse, held their annual awards ceremony and welcomed a new board Tuesday, June 25.

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Senator Tim Kaine Tours Downtown Herndon

Senator speaks to residents, officials, business owners.

Sen. Tim Kaine (D) took a tour of downtown Herndon Friday, June 28, visiting a variety of local businesses.

Herndon Hosts Second Battle of Bottles

Two neighborhoods compete to see who recycles more in July.

Herndon residents will battle it out for the second straight year in an attempt to be more environmentally friendly. The second annual Battle of the Bottles will challenge residents of Four Seasons and Hunters Creek to see who can recycle more.

Reston Lions Install New Officers

Vice District Governor of District 24 A installed the new officers of the Reston Lions Club at its installation banquet on June 26 at the Hidden Creek Country Club in Reston.

Commentary:The Meaning of the American Revolution

In May I attended the cornerstone dedication for the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

South Lakes Seniors Make Reston Proud

On June 6, I had occasion to go to South Lakes High School, the Alma Mater of our three children, to witness the 2013 South Lakes Seniors Awards Ceremony.

Fourth of July Trivia

Information provided by Smithsonian Children’s Magazine press releases. For more trivia, go to newsdesk.si.edu. Joke courtesy of Elle Ross, 7, of Vienna.

Let the Sparks Fly in Reston and Herndon

It’s not too late to enjoy local 4th of July festivals, parades and fireworks.

So. It’s July 4, 2013. Independence Day. A federal holiday celebrating our freedom from Great Britain. The National Day of the United States. And you have nothing planned.

Children ‘Dig Into Reading’ in Herndon, Reston Libraries

Fairfax County Public Library launches summer reading program.

Upcoming Events: Herndon Fortnightly Library *Monday, July 8, at 10:30 a.m.—Children’s Science Center: Fun, hands-on science experiments come to you. Cosponsored by the Friends of George Mason Regional Library. Age 6-12

Week in Herndon

This week in Herndon features fresh, exciting news!

Volunteering on 10th Annual Bill Rouse Day of Caring

Liberty Property Trust in Herndon was closed Friday, June 21, along with all 22 of Liberty offices in the US and UK for a day for community service projects in memory of its founder, Bill Rouse.

Volkswagen Passat Celebrates World Record in Herndon

On June 24, Volkswagen of America announced it set a new Guinness World Records achievement for the “lowest fuel consumption—48 U.S. states for a non-hybrid car” category with 77.99 mpg.

Jimmy’s Tavern in Herndon to Expand

On June 14, Jimmy’s Tavern in downtown Herndon had the lease renewed for 10 more years during the intermission at the Herndon Friday Night Live event.

Column: Been There, Doing That

I.V. chemotherapy, that’s what; and I’m not infusing it for the fun of it, either.

Meatless Diet Could Prolong One’s Life

New study shows vegetarian and vegan diets could lower risk of untimely death

“The number one thing to do is to explore different types of vegetables. Think outside of green beans and corn.” — Bonita Lillie, registered dietician

Love after 50: Baby Boomers Need Romance Too

Couple chronicles their online dating experience in new book.

“Dating in your 60s is a lot different than dating in the 1960s, to be sure. Our message is one of hope and the courage to try one more time. Life is just too short.”   — Mindy Mitchell, coauthor of “Lube of Life: A Tribute to Sex, Love and the Pursuit of Happiness in the Boomer Age”

When a Bill Becomes a Law

On July 1, sales taxes go up for Fairfax County residents.

“We needed to at least make it clear that you risk a reckless driving offense if you text and drive.” —Del. David Bulova (D-37)

Don't Be Afraid; Learn About Bees

Number of drones on the increase.

What Do You Know About Bees? How many bees in an ordinary colony (hive)? a) 1000 b) 10,000 c) 60,000 or more 2. Each colony has one queen. What happens if more than one is born? a) All but one is killed b) All but one is driven out c) The first one takes half the colony and relocates 3. The oldest bee ever found (preserved in a drop of amber) lived how many years ago? a) 1,000,000 b) 25,000,000 c) 100,000,000 4. Stingers release venom for a brief time. What to do on being stung? gently back out stinger with a fingernail or credit card apply ice for swelling c) both a and b 90% of bees are workers. Which gender? a) male female Which stinging insect is vegetarian? hornet bee wasp 7. At least how much honey a colony (hive) needs for winter? 10 pounds 60 pounds 100 pounds 8. Honey has flavors depending on the blossoms visited. What do beekeepers do with "bad tasting" honey? throw it out leave it for bees to eat 9. Normal gathering range of a bee? 500 yards one-half mile c) 2 miles (or more) 10. For millennia, honey has been used treating wounds? a) true b) false Answers; 1.c; 2.a; 3.c; 4.c; 5.b; 6.b; 7.b; 8.b; 9.c; 10.a. Grading correct answers: 9-10 = A; 7-8 = "bee"; 5-6 = C. Arlington Adult Education offers a class called "Help the Honeybees!" on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at the Arlington Career Center, in Walter Reed Drive near Columbia Pike. Hours are 7 to 10 p.m. and registration is $5. Beekeepers Association of Northern Virginia has a booth at the 2013 Arlington County Fair to be held in Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 2nd Street, South, Aug. 7 - 11. Bee products are judged at the Fair and many Are offered for sale. All the answers to all the possible questions about bees are found through that association's webpage: www.beekeepersnova.org

Let the Sparks Fly in the County

It’s not too late to enjoy local 4th of July festivals, parades and fireworks.

So. It’s July 4, 2013. Independence Day. A federal holiday celebrating our freedom from Great Britain. The National Day of the United States. And you have nothing planned.

Monday, July 1

Editorial: HOT-Lanes and No Metro for I-66?

Did you miss the public discussion and input? So did we.

One day when I was stuck in traffic on I-66, I was briefly entertained by the license plate of the vehicle in front of me. "66 SUCKS," it read. No question, commuting on I-66 is a bear.