Tuesday, March 31
Police Captain Graduates from FBI Academy
Captain Graham H. McGowan is the Fairfax County Police Department’s latest graduate of the FBI’s National Academy, which has just completed its 259th session.
RA Members to Vote April 13- May 8 on Tetra Purchase
Reston Association members will vote on whether to purchase the 3.47 acre Tetra property located at 11450 Baron Cameron Ave. for $2.65 million.
Column: Return on Investment
Constituents contacted me recently about a Richmond Times Dispatch article headline they felt was misleading: “Ken Plum says Pre-K education leads to less crime and welfare.”
Girl Scouts Troop 3651 Raise Money for Honor Flights
Film and presentations explain the importance of getting veterans to Washington D.C. to see their monuments.
Girl Scout Troop 3651 organized a screening of the moving Honor Flight, and invited two World War II veterans, Howard Jester and George Hanna, to speak to the audience after the film.
Monday, March 30
Fairfax County School Board Votes Down Veterans Day School Holiday
Fairfax Station resident Steven Hunt, retired U.S. Navy, put it bluntly: “Votes count, words don’t.” That was following a vote in which all but two members of the Fairfax County School Board voted against an amendment to the 2015-2016 calendar that would have made Veterans Day a school holiday.
Friday, March 27
Editorial: Good, Bad and Ugly
A look at recently ended session of the Virginia General Assembly.
The 2015 session of the Virginia General Assembly came to an end last week, and some of the biggest news was about what it did not do.
Thursday, March 26
Weekend Fun in Fairfax County - March 27-29, 2015
A roundup of entertaining things to do this weekend.
A roundup of fun things to do this weekend in Fairfax county.
Wednesday, March 25
Column: Health Matters More
I realize money doesn’t buy happiness, although I wouldn’t mind renting it.
Tuesday, March 24
Fun Abounds at Reston Town Center
Spring 2015 Calendar of fun events.
Spring 2015 Calendar of fun events.
‘Beauty and the Beast’ at Lake Anne Elementary
Lake Anne Elementary School's Musical Drama Club presented Beauty and the Beast, Jr. on March 19 and 20. This was their 2nd annual musical production.
Rescue Reston Says ‘No’ to Golf Course Development
Forty-nine rescuers braved a windy morning on Sunday to gather in front of the Reston office of Northwestern Mutual to spell out the word NO.
Commetary: The Lady's Got Clout
Each year the Library of Virginia honors women who have distinguished themselves in many different ways in the state’s history
Commentary: Good Year for Fairfax County Boards, Selling Land to RA
The drought continues for County teachers, but not School Board overseers.
Bechtel to Expand in Reston
Governor Terry McAuliffe announced that Bechtel Corporation, one of the world’s largest engineering, construction and project management companies, will relocate 700 jobs to Fairfax County from its Frederick, Md., operation as a result of global restructuring. The company will invest $10 million in the Fairfax County location as a result of the move.
Fine Arts Festival returns May 16 & 17
The festival brings 200+ artists from around the nation to Reston.
Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) has announced that more than two-hundred artists across the nation have been notified of acceptance for the 24th annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival (NVFAF) on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17.
Reston NoVa Mini Maker Faire a Success
Innovators and creators display their crafts in Reston.
The family-friendly showcase of invention and creativity returned to Reston on Sunday, March 15. Tech enthusiasts and innovators gathered in Reston for the second annual NoVa Mini Maker Faire at South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School.
Trout Season Open in Fairfax County
Rain waters down Herndon Fishing Derby, fish still available in Reston.
Despite rainfall that lasted throughout the morning, parents and children arrived at Sugarland Run Trail in Herndon the morning of Saturday, March 14 to participate in the annual fishing derby.
Virginia Housing Expo Draws Crowds
Home-ownership, rental opportunities and related services dominate the event at Herndon High.
“Those most in need of these services and resources benefit the most when we can bring so many providers and organizations together in this one-stop shop format.”
Fairfax County Students Win Science Awards
Students from across the county recognized at 60th Annual Fairfax County Regional Science And Engineering Fair.
High school students from Fairfax County schools attended the annual regional science fair held at Robinson Secondary School in Fairfax, March 20-22, to compete for prizes and recognition.
Letter: A Cornerstone in Danger
Letter to the Editor:
We are a community that values education. We’re known nationwide for our world-class education system. And for good reason: with outstanding teachers, motivated students, and active leadership, we have every right to take pride in the top-tier education that our community has asked for.
Emotional Beginning for Fairfax County Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission
While several other members of the recently created Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission stated their general intent to listen and learn and help, Salvatore Culosi had a more specific request.
Friday, March 20
Harrison Apartments Hold Grand Opening
Visitors see new high rise in Reston.
Despite an overcast afternoon, spirits were high on Saturday, March 14 at the Harrison, located at 1800 Jonathan Way in Reston. The luxury apartment community held a weekend grand opening, with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday afternoon. Attending were local dignitaries including member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Cathy Hudgins (D-Hunter Mill) and Robert E. Simon, founder of Reston. Promising resort-style living and easy accessibility to Washington, D.C., the Harrison is already taking tenants.
Column: What Else Was Done?
Previous columns have focused on major legislation passed in the 2015 General Assembly session, but this column will describe other legislation that passed. Implications for these bills may be more limited in the number of persons affected, but you can be sure that for those persons these bills may be the most important.
First Meeting Scheduled for Ad Hoc Police Commission
With endorsement, albeit non-unanimous, from the Board of Supervisors, the ad hoc commission organized by Board Chairman Sharon Bulova to review Fairfax County Police Department practices will hold its first meeting March 23.
Special Enrollment Period for Affordable Care Act Open
NVFS and Healthworks are resources for area residents through April 30.
Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) will be providing free enrollment assistance and educational material to Virginia families and individuals that qualify for the Affordable Care Act Special Enrollment Period from March 15-April 30.
Weekend Fun in Fairfax County March 20-22, 2015
A roundup of entertaining things to do this weekend.
A roundup of entertaining things to do this weekend.
Commentary: Investing in Families Strengthens Communities
Letter to the Editor
The Fairfax County proposed $7.13 billion budget for fiscal year 2016 comes at devastating cost for the most vulnerable families in our community. Included in the budget is the complete elimination of Healthy Families, a nationally recognized, evidence-based child abuse and neglect prevention program that serves hundreds of at-risk families.
Thursday, March 19
Reston Home Sales: February, 2015
In February, 2015, 59 Reston homes sold between $900,000-$180,000.
Reston Home Sales: February, 2015
Students From Around Fairfax County Recognized for Promoting Peace
After a friend of South County High School senior Sakira Coleman was sexually assaulted while running on a local public path, Coleman decided to take action and started the “Fight for Your Right to Run at Night” program.
First Meeting Set for Fairfax County Police Commission
With endorsement, albeit non-unanimous, from the Board of Supervisors, the ad hoc commission organized by board chairman Sharon Bulova to review Fairfax County Police Department practices will hold its first meeting March 23.
Wednesday, March 18
Reston Teacher Mary Anne Rossbach Named Virginia Math Educator of the Year
The nominees come from all over the Commonwealth of Virginia, but it was Mary Anne Rossbach, a sixth grade teacher from Sunrise Valley Elementary School in Reston, who accepted the 2015 William C. Lowry Mathematics Educator of the Year award on Saturday, March 7 at a dinner ceremony in Virginia Beach.
South Lakes Swimmer Champions Cerebral Palsy in Honor of Cousin
Katie Grealish loves to swim and even though most of her family doesn't share her passion, she knows her cousin does.
Column: Money Matters
It always does, and there always are; especially if you have to work for a living and cancer is a part of that living.
Tuesday, March 17
Leadership Fairfax Hosts Supervisors Breakfast
State of the County Address, supervisors’ questions and an award ceremony top the agenda.
The agenda and the speakers have to be of significant interest to get some 300 people to brave local traffic and attend a meeting that started at 7:30 a.m. Leadership Fairfax (LFI) apparently succeeded in offering both in the ballroom of the Fairview Park Marriott on Friday morning, March 13, hosting its 24th Annual Board of Supervisors Breakfast.
The Right Fit: Choosing a Summer Camp
How parents can ensure positive summer experiences for their children.
Though the official start of spring is still days away and the frigidity of winter is still recent on the minds of many, Janelle Wright, a Potomac, Md., mother of two, has already mapped out the summer for her children.
Editorial: On Police Information and Secrecy
Time for change in public access to police information.
The first meeting of the Fairfax County Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission will take place next Monday, March 23, and it comes with hope for real change.
Friday, March 13
Direct the Money
What's happening this week in Reston?
Thursday, March 12
Home Improvements Earn Remodeling Awards
Four Sun Design remodeling projects named Washington-area “Contractor of the Year” winners.
It’s been a good year for Sun Design Remodeling. In January, the full-service design/build remodeler won four “Contractor of the Year” awards from the Washington, D.C. chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Then, in February, an already locally-honored gourmet kitchen was named category best (“kitchen above $150k”) in the 10-state southeastern region.
Luxury Apartments Popping Up All Over Northern Virginia
Renters want resort-like amenities and access to transportation.
After a long, hard day at work, Jordan Coleman comes home to a large apartment with modern amenities, including a 24-hour concierge, ample living space, a state–of-the-art fitness center and a pool. The apartment features high-end appliances and finishes as well as an open, flowing layout and large walk-in closets. Coleman – a lawyer and Capitol Hill staffer – shares the pricey rent with a friend. The complex is owned by Avalon, which has properties in Arlington, Fairfax, Herndon, Falls Church, Tysons Corner and Vienna, Virginia, as well as Bethesda, Maryland, and Washington.
Historic Virginia in Gardens
This year’s tour includes a rare private look at special properties in Fairfax County, Old Town Alexandria and Leesburg.
The Virginia Historic Garden Tour is an 8-day event that stretches across the Commonwealth. Each spring visitors are welcomed to over 250 of Virginia's most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks.
Centreville Clock Tower Thrift Shop Now Offering Consignment
Northern Virginia Family Service is now offering furniture consignment at its Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Centreville at 6301 Centreville Crest Lane, between Advance Auto Parts and Minnieland Academy.
Week in Reston
News in the Reston area.
Wednesday, March 11
Column: Cheaper and Cleaner
Under a bill passed by the General Assembly in the 2015 session and signed by the Governor, the cost of electricity in Virginia will go down next month, and the base rate of electricity will be frozen for the next five years. Critics of the “Dominion bill” seem to have not read the provisions of the legislation as it passed or do not understand it.
New Art Exhibits to Open in Reston and Herndon
Local artwork to be on display.
Several nonprofits within the Reston and Herndon area, including ArtSpace Herndon located on Center Street and the Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) have helped showcase local artwork, and as some exhibits close, new displays will soon open.
Promoting STEM, Hands-on
Sen. Tim Kaine and Virginia Secretary of Education Holton headline K-12 STEM Symposium at the Nysmith School in Herndon.
With Fairfax County police officers directing the line of cars and the pedestrians crossing EDS Drive from the overflow parking lot, you would be forgiven if you thought all this activity was because of a sold out rock concert or championship sporting event. What was taking place, however, was much more important than any type of entertainment.
Column: RA Elections and Snow Gold
By the time you see this, you will have received your ballot by email or snail mail for the Reston Association Board Elections. It is really easy. All you have to do is check a maximum of three blocks once you decide who to vote for. The Association affects us all in many ways, and its leadership makes a difference.
GRACE Celebrates Youth Art Month
Greater Reston Arts Center is celebrating Youth Art Month, by presenting two exhibitions dedicated to the artistic achievements of the area’s youth. The GRACE Art exhibition features selected works from students from eight schools participating in the Center’s signature art education program, GRACE Art.
Harrison Opens at Reston Town Center
A new, upscale rental community is now open in Reston, the Harrison at Reston Town Center. Almost 20 percent of its 360 apartments have been pre-leased. One bedroom apartments start at $1,855, while two bedroom apartments range from $2,400 to over $5,000, and a three-bedroom, three-bath penthouse apartment is listed at $6,600 with more than 1,500 square feet of living space.
‘Dollars for Daniel’ Event Raises $3,000
Katie Grealish, a sophomore at South Lakes High School wanted to do something that raised awareness for Cerebral Palsy for her Middle Year’s Program (MYP). “My cousin Daniel is afflicted with the condition. Many people think it is a disease, however it is actually a condition typically caused by damage to the brain before or at birth.
Mary Boss Howard, 81, of Reston, Dies
Mary Howard was born April 18, 1933 in Grand Rapids, Mich. She became the 219th resident of Reston in 1965, living here until her death on Feb. 26, 2015. Mary is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Bob Howard, son Mark and daughter-in-law Lisa Lim, a daughter, stepson Jerry Howard, brother Bruce Boss, sister Pam Hietanen, and stepbrothers Paul and Dale Hietanen.
Column: How Lucky Am I
You’ll note there’s no question mark after the “I.”
Sunday, March 8
Dog as Lifeline to Vienna Boy with Mitochondrial Disease
Golden Retriever assistance dog connects Jack to schoolmates, community.
Jack DeLacy was not expected to see his second birthday. But by the time he turned 4, it was clear the DeLacys could start planning for a future they never expected to have.
Thursday, March 5
Fairfax County hosts first Inmate Resource Fair.
They’re hoping the third time will be a charm: 34-year-old Demeterius Spann of the Richmond Highway area of Alexandria and 29-year-old Nydale Sheppard of Reston have each been incarcerated three times.
Wednesday, March 4
Ballet Display at Reston Community Center
Classical Ballet Theatre wows audience with choreography.
At Reston Community Center, the Classical Ballet Theatre (CBT) presented “An Evening with Classical Ballet Theatre” on Friday, Feb. 13. The show was a combination of both contemporary and classical ballet, and included original choreography by guest artists and CBT faculty as well as audience favorites.
New Art Exhibits to Open in Reston and Herndon
Local artwork to be on display.
Many residents of Fairfax County have an appreciation for various mediums of visual and preforming art. Several nonprofits within the Reston and Herndon area, including ArtSpace Herndon located on Center Street and the Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) have helped showcase local artwork, and as some exhibits close, new displays will soon open.
Column: Sole-Searching
There’s no denying the emotional fact that the CT Scan results I received and wrote about last week were a bit of a disappointment.