Thursday, May 31
Save the Fine Arts
On Monday, May 21, over 100 students and alumni of West Springfield High School joined to protest Fairfax County Public School's staffing policies in the fine arts and celebrate the impact the fine arts has had on their lives.
Long & Foster Takes On Community Project
Sales associates and staff from Long & Foster Real Estate Inc., Springfield office, located at 7202 Old Keene Mill Road in Springfield, will spend the 15th annual companywide Community Service Day on June 6 working to make major home improvements to the residence of an area woman who lives alone and is blind.
Reduce Crime: Buy Books
Richard Byrd Library hosts sale to support program for juvenile offenders.
Is there a new approach that works to turn juvenile offenders around? Yes - it is the Fairfax County Public Library's Changing Lives Through Literature (CLTL) program. According to FCPL Program Manager, Ted Kavich, CLTL uses the power of literature to transform troubled youth through reading and group discussion.
Kicking Up Their Heels
Encore presents ‘Dancin’ Fool’ at NOVA.
Premiering their new show here before taking it to Greece this summer are the singers and dancers of Encore Theatrical Art Project. They’ll perform "Dancin’ Fool" on Saturday, June 9, at 4 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, June 10, at 1 and 4 p.m.
Bruins Baseball Reaches Region Semifinals
Clutch game-winning bunt by O'Connor; solid pitching by Church, Rogers lead Lake Braddock past McLean.
A perfectly executed bases loaded suicide squeeze play by Dylan O'Connor saved the day for the Lake Braddock Secondary baseball team and provided the winning run for the host Bruins in their dramatic 6-5 extra innings victory over McLean in a Northern Region quarterfinals playoff game played on Memorial Day afternoon.
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
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.
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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.
Thursday, May 24
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Honoring Helping Hands
Hundreds honored at the Girl Scouts Precious Medals Ceremony in West Springfield.
Over two hundred people gathered Tuesday night, May 15, in West Springfield to honor Girl Scouts of Association 52 of the Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital (GSCNC) at their Fourth Annual Spring Precious Medals Ceremony titled "100 years of Helping Hands."
Shooting Death in Springfield
Gray Alan Combs, Jr., 22, died after encounter with police.
Fairfax County police have released the name of the man who died after officers shot him on Saturday, May 19. Gray Alan Combs, Jr., 22, "of no fixed address" died after he was taken to a hospital, police said.
‘Happily Ever After’ at Workhouse
Full of energy with plenty of foolishness to sweeten the life lessons hidden in plain sight, the magical fairy tale "Rapunzel" is given an appealing live production rendition at the Workhouse Studio 3 for Young Audiences.
Wednesday, May 23
Lake Braddock Baseball Wins Patriot District
Bruins beat West Springfield for second title in three years.
The Lake Braddock baseball team pounded 10 hits and played solid defense behind starting pitcher Michael Church en route to a 7-2 victory against West Springfield on May 21 in the Patriot District championship game.
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
May 25-31.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Springfield Days – the Ultimate ‘Staycation’ May 31-June 3
Event features food, fun, entertainment for pets and people.
Everyone has their favorite Springfield Days event, whether it’s the cardboard boat regatta, the amusement rides, the petfest or the farmers market. Whatever it is, the annual community-wide celebration has something fun, entertaining and exciting for everyone.
Iron Dog Champions
All five Fairfax K-9 teams win awards and recognition.
All five of the FCPD K-9 teams that entered the 2012 Virginia Police Canine Association (VPCA) Iron Dog competition won awards and recognition for their top abilities testing strength, stamina and team work.
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.
Tuesday, May 22
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.
Seeking the Positive from the Tragic
5K Run/Walk supports youth mental wellness.
Nearly 150 runners and walkers came out Saturday to participate in the Youth Mental Wellness 5K Walk and Run at Lake Accotink in Springfield.
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.
Friday, May 18
Joining ‘Voices of Now’
Local schools perform at Arena Stage.
Last week, drama ensembles from five Fairfax County Schools performed at the Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. as part of a youth drama program called "Voices of Now."
Thursday, May 17
Planning to Vote?
Nearly 200,000 voter registration cards mailed this week.
Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, if you are planning to vote in the June 12 primary elections in Fairfax County, check your new voter registration cards mailed out this week.
Man Abducted, Robbed in Springfield
Police are investigating the report of an abduction and robbery that occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9, in the 6100 block of Cumberland Avenue.
Gail Zukosky Named Virginia Public Health Nurse of the Year
Gail Zukosky, a public health nurse who serves Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Cluster V schools, has been named Public Health Nurse of the Year by the Virginia Department of Health.
Green MotorSport Comes to Springfield
Green MotorSport, owned and operated by NASA mechanical engineer David Green, will celebrate its grand opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, June 2, at its new location, 8432 Alban Road, Springfield, in the Alban Business Park. The public is invited.
Springfield Resident Receives Literary Merit Award
The Lord Botetourt Medal, established in 1772 "for the honor and encouragement of literary merit," is presented to a graduating senior who has "attained the greatest distinction in scholarship." Rebecca Koenig, of Springfield, received this award on Sunday, May 13 at the College of William & Mary’s Commencement ceremony.
‘The Wizard of Oz’ at West Springfield High School
There may be no place like home, but when it comes to musical theater, there’s no place like West Springfield High School. Last night, West Springfield took the audience somewhere over the rainbow in their production of "The Wizard of Oz."
Fresh and Exciting
Hayfield’s production of ‘The Children’s Hour.’
Behind every rumor lies some small ounce of truth. Hayfield Secondary School’s production of "The Children’s Hour" showed a small town turned upside down with a little white lie that was maybe not so little after all.
Springfield Mall – From Eyesore to Shopping Mecca
$200 million Springfield Mall renovation set to begin in July.
"What about Springfield Mall?" That’s the question Supervisor Jeff McKay(D-Lee) said he hears the most from constituents since mega-developer Vornado purchased what it called the "1.4 million-square-foot fixer-upper" in 2006 for $171.5 million.
TD Bank Plan Moves Ahead
West Springfield Civic Association concerns addressed.
TD Bank, one of the nation’s 10 largest banks, has moved a step closer to opening a drive-thru branch in West Springfield’s Cardinal Forest Plaza shopping center.
Mulan Comes to Burke
Northern Virginia Players present Disney classic.
Northern Virginia Players will present Disney’s Mulan Jr. beginning Saturday, May 25 at Burke Community Church. The heartwarming tale begins when the Huns have invaded China, and it’s up to misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor. Mulan is a celebration of culture, honor and the fighting spirit, includes musical favorites such as "Honor to Us All."
Robinson Girls Lax Made Forward Progress This Spring
Rams, under their new head coach, had a good second half to the season.
The Robinson Secondary girls' lacrosse team saw its first season under veteran head coach Liz Case come to an end this past Tuesday night, May 15 when the Rams lost to defending Northern Region champion Madison, 19-13, in a first round game of the 16-team region playoffs. The postseason contest took place at Madison High School in Vienna.
Lancers Softball Holds Special Tribute Game
Patriot District contest with Woodson honors former Robinson coach.
On Monday, May 7, a special girls' softball game was played at Lee High School between the home team Lancers and guest W.T. Woodson. The regular season Patriot District matchup between the two teams had a greater purpose, however.
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First-time Candidate Versus Longtime Congressman
Former Navy pilot hopes to defeat Moran with charges of conflict of interest.
Former Navy pilot Bruce Shuttleworth’s campaign to oust U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-8) in the Democratic primary is fashioned as an indictment, a campaign in which the issues are framed as an attack on the incumbent.
Wednesday, May 16
Hayfield Girls’ Lax Drops OT Heartbreaker to Yorktown
Hawks finish National District runner-up for third straight season.
Yorktown defeated Hayfield, 9-8, in sudden-death overtime on May 10, capturing its seventh consecutive district title. The Hawks held a 6-2 halftime lead and a one-goal advantage during the second overtime period, but couldn’t fend off the Patriots.
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
May 18-25.
Entertainment in the Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield area.
Faith Notes (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
Events happening in the community.
Bulletin Board (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
May 18-25.
Community events in the Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield area.
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.
Building Confidence in Ourselves
We face a myriad of challenges today, but perhaps no challenge is greater than overcoming a pervading loss of confidence.
Fairfax County Students Win Technology Awards
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) middle and high school students won first place awards in 19 categories at the 2012 Virginia Technology Student Association (TSA) State Leadership Conference, held last week in Richmond. The three days of competitive events and displays of student work culminated in FCPS winning the Lynn P. Barrier Outstanding School Division Award for middle schools for the third consecutive year.
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).
Monday, May 14
Friday, May 11
Mother's Day 2012
We asked our readers to submit photos in honor of Mother's Day, which is on May 13.
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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.
‘The Arabian Nights’ at Lake Braddock
The sound of drums filled the air as the cast lined the aisles, chanting in unison. Voices flew from all sides of the auditorium and the audience remained entranced throughout Lake Braddock High School’s production of "The Arabian Nights."
Grassroots Government 101
First Braddock ‘Citizen Governance Conference’ draws future decision-makers.
Sitting in a conference room discussing issues such as land use, aging and transportation may not seem like the perfect way to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon. But the opportunity to have a voice in the future of the Braddock district drew nearly 75 residents to the first Citizen Governance Conference, hosted by Supervisor John Cook (R-Braddock) at Frost Achievement Finance Park on May 5.
County Launches Project To Combat Lyme Disease
After an unseasonably warm winter, Fairfax County health officials are bracing for a proliferation of tick infestations as well as a potential surge in new cases of Lyme disease.
Patriot District Lax Tourneys in Full Throttle
Boys and girls title games set for Friday evening at Lee.
The semifinals rounds of both the girls’ and boys’ Patriot District lacrosse tournaments were scheduled to take place earlier this week at Lee High School in Springfield.
A Different Kind of Win For Lancer Girls Soccer
Lancer team members take part in Lupus benefit walk.
The Lee High girls' soccer team participated at the recent Lupus Walk fundraiser event in Washington, D.C. Lancer team members sent out emails to fundraise and bring awareness for the benefit event. The walk itself was 1.5 miles.
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
Clifton Rolls Out the Welcome Mat
It’s the 40th annual Spring Homes Tour.
French chandeliers, antique furnishings, original paintings and whimsical collections are among the delights awaiting all those attending the 40th annual Clifton Spring Homes Tour. It’s slated for Thursday, May 17, from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., and includes a marketplace, silent auction and raffle, from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Paradise Springs Winery.
Tuesday, May 8
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
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
May 4-11.
Things happening in the Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield area.
Thursday, May 3
Chick-fil-A Opens in Springfield
One hundred people camped outside of Chick-fil-A's newest store in Springfield for 24 hours before its opening, starting from 6 a.m. on April 25 through 6 a.m. on April 26, to receive a year's worth of free food (52 coupons) as part of Chick-fil-A's "First 100 Celebration."
Community Champions
Julie Clemente founded Friends of Clemyjontri Inc. in 2006 to raise money for park improvements. In 2011, Clemente organized and headed the effort to create the Friends of Clemyjontri website; worked with CapitalOne to create a credit card with a photo of Clemyjontri on the front to help raise funds for the park, and has created opportunities to raise additional funds.
Displaying Strength and Flexibility
Twenty competitors — 14 amateurs and six professional pole dancers — participated in the Ms. Virginia Pole Dance Fitness Competition held Saturday, April 28 at the Hilton Crystal City.
Area Students Win Top Honors in Virginia History Day Competition
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students from Springfield Estates Elementary School and West Springfield High School won top honors in their respective groups in the 2012 Virginia History Day competition, held recently in Williamsburg.
Three Years Probation For Marriage Fraud
Centreville resident Yong Hyon Kim, 50, was sentenced in federal court to probation following his conviction for conspiracy to commit marriage fraud and making false statements to federal agents.
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.
Fairfax Dentists to Donate iPods to Alzheimer’s Patients
Fairfax dentists at Smiles At Fairfax Corner, are helping local Alzheimer patients in the community by launching a "Tuned For Memory" event. The event will run from Tuesday, May 1 through Friday, June 1.
Explosives Ordinance Unit Presented in Fairfax
The robot, unofficially known in the Fairfax EOD unit as "Charlotte," is the most common robotic platform used by police departments in the Unite States and has been used by the Fairfax County Police Department since 2002.
Teens Promote Diversity
Students find creative ways to promote diversity through volunteering.
Joanna Shows remembers what it was like to be held back, just because she was a woman.
Value of Volunteer Hours: $4.5 million
Legacy of Community Service? Priceless.
"Volunteers aren't paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless." Eleanor Roosevelt’s famous sentiment was echoed by numerous community and civic leaders who gathered at the Waterford in Springfield Friday, April 27, to celebrate 118 Fairfax County volunteers during the 20th annual Volunteer Service Awards hosted by Volunteer Fairfax.
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.
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.
Smith Leads Lancers to Baseball Win
Junior right-hander tosses three-hit shutout against T.C. Williams
Lee High baseball pitcher Will Smith threw a complete game shutout for the Lancers in their 3-0 Patriot District home win over T.C. Williams last Friday night, April 27.
Lancer Girls Looking for Strong Soccer Finish
Lee to host Patriot rival Wolverines in season finale May 9.
With just a couple more weeks remaining in the regular season, the Lee High girls' soccer team is right around the .500 mark (4-5-1) and playing particularly well of late. The Lancers are 2-1-1 over their past four games. While its play has been uneven at times over the course of the spring season, the Lee team is certainly playing good soccer as the upcoming Patriot District tournament draws near.
Lake Braddock Baseball Versatile in Victory
Bruins beat Woodson with power, pitching and execution.
After falling behind early in Tuesday’s game at Woodson, the Lake Braddock baseball team put on a third-inning display of offensive versatility.
Wednesday, May 2
Classified Advertising
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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.
Volunteer Police Officers Saluted at Ceremony
West Springfield, Franconia volunteers receive awards.
"We need a big golden arch, like McDonald's, and a sign that says more than one million served." Fairfax County Police Chief, Col. David Rohrer, was referring to the milestone achieved by the county’s Auxiliary Police Officers (APOs) during a recent ceremony honoring FCPD volunteers.
Celebrating Earth Day
Clean Fairfax Council hosts 2012 celebration.
A fundamental part of the mission of the Clean Fairfax Council is to "encourage environmental stewardship and urban sustainability" in Fairfax County, working in partnership with numerous governmental agencies and volunteer groups. As the organizers of the Fairfax County Earth Day/Arbor Day celebration for more than 10 years, the Council insured that the 2012 event, held on Saturday, April 28 at the Fairfax County Government Center was loaded with educational workshops, demonstrations, exhibits, food and fun.
In Case of Emergency
A look at Fairfax County’s 911 center.
Being a dispatcher in Fairfax County’s state-of-the-art, 911 center sounds like an exciting job. It’s also stressful, tiring, rewarding and, at times, harrowing.
Tuesday, May 1
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?”