Saturday, June 30
Severe Storms Rock Region; 1.5 Million Homes Without Power
Virginia Governor announces State of Emergency.
Following the aftermath of last night's surprise thunderstorms, many local residents woke up to significant amount of damage. Fallen trees and branches were spread across the area, and power outages were abundant.
Friday, June 29
Fatal Crash in Burke Area
On Thursday, June 28 around 12:50 p.m., police responded to a crash on Ox Road near Zion Drive.
Weekly Entertainment (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
June 29-July 6.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Classified Advertising
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Thursday, June 28
Wednesday, June 27
Take a Hike!
Discover Burke VRE-Pohick Stream Valley Trail.
On June 2, the 20th anniversary of National Trails Day, local officials and community residents "took a hike" and officially opened the Pohick Stream Valley - Burke VRE Trail.
Chessie’s Big Backyard Opens for Summer Fun
Fun-seekers can play, explore and splash around at Lee District Park.
Sunny skies greeted hundreds of children and their families during the June 16 ribbon-cutting ceremony for Chessie's Big Backyard Tiki Village playground, part of the Family Recreation Center at Lee District Park.
Sock Monkeys Fan?
Welcome to Lee District nights summer concerts.
From jazz to big band, classic to blue bluegrass, and some vintage rock ‘n roll, Lee District Nights is the place for music lovers of all stripes.
Hitting on the Sweet Spot of Summer
One of the most beloved summer pastimes is all over Fairfax.
Tennis is everywhere in Fairfax this summer. As the weather starts heating up and the days get longer, more and more people are flocking to the courts to get their adrenaline fix, work on their backhand swing or just have fun with friends and neighbors. Whatever the reason people grab for their racquets it is clear that the opportunities for tennis players are everywhere.
Connolly Addresses 280 New Citizens
"You will help freshen America and help us remain a strong and dynamic society," Congressman Gerry Connolly told hundreds of new U.S. citizens and their families June 22 during a naturalization ceremony in a packed auditorium at Robinson High School.
Dancing for Joy and Remembrance
Ekoji Buddhist Temple in Burke hosts Summer Obon Festival.
Whether guests wear the traditional silk Japanese Kimonos with brocade sashes, or just jeans and a t-shirt, all visitors are invited to join hands and twirl to the beat of Japanese folk music during Ekoji Buddhist Temple’s largest summer celebration.
Kaine Holds Forum to Discuss Higher Education
Former Virginia governor meets with students and parents in Burke.
Former governor and current U.S. Senate candidate Tim Kaine met with Northern Virginia students and parents to discuss his strategies for the future of higher education on Thursday, June 21 at Villa Bella Ristorante in Burke.
Letter: Checking the History Commission
I am writing to ask that your paper look into the question of who checks the work of the History Commission.
Column: A GAP In My Thinking
Recently, due to circumstances beyond my control, I was forced to buy a new car (in this instance, “new” means different, not a current model year). Estimated repairs at 137,000 miles that could have escalated into the unknown – and unaffordable – thousands compelled me to fish so I wouldn’t have my bait cut (and I don’t even like to fish).
Tuesday, June 26
Editorial: Case Closed. Why the Secrecy?
No reason for police to exercise "blanket" approach, shielding every document in every case.
Connection readers know that we respect and appreciate our public safety professionals.
Monday, June 25
Even in Closed Cases, Police Maintain Culture of Secrecy
Public must rely on information police agencies choose to share, even if it's wrong.
In December of 2008, the Fairfax Police Department chased 19-year-old Hailu Brook across the county line into Arlington and shot him dead.
Friday, June 22
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
June 22-29.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Thursday, June 21
‘Rocking It Out’ at Lake Braddock
Sen. Webb delivers an inspirational speech to his granddaughter’s graduating class.
Being a vice president of the Student Government Association has its perks. Brianna Hogan, a Lake Braddock Secondary School senior, had the honor of introducing the guest speaker at the school’s graduation ceremony on Friday, June 15 at the Patriot Center.
County Board Objects to ‘Transit Funding Game’
Local leaders say policy shift disruptive, costly.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors strongly criticized a McDonnell administration plan to overhaul the way it handles transportation funding, calling the move politically-motivated "funding games."
People, Places and Programs
This week in Fairfax County.
The Virginia Transit Association (VTA) awarded Sharon Bulova, Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, "Public Official of the Year" at its annual awards ceremony in Fairfax on June 13.
‘Tomorrow Is Up to Us,’ Woodson Graduates Told
W. T. Woodson High School graduates its senior class.
Parents and friends settled into their seats just before 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, all eager to watch the seniors of W. T. Woodson High School become graduates.
Strong Leaders and Great Followers
Robinson’s Class of 2012 graduates.
The seniors enjoyed their last few hours as Robinson students at their graduation ceremony reminiscing about old memories and new beginnings. On May 14, in the Patriot Center at George Mason University, Robinson Secondary School’s class of 2012, their teachers and parents said goodbye.
Olympic Hopefuls
Two area divers qualify for 2012 USA Diving Olympic trials.
Dominion Dive Club, a top six nationally ranked USA Diving club, announced that two of its divers – current and former – have qualified for the 2012 USA Diving Olympic Trials.
Letter: In Support of Job Creation
My name is Alison Neary and I am a rising sophomore at Virginia Tech. Growing up in a Navy family, we moved multiple times in Virginia, so I have experienced living in various parts of this great state, from Northern Virginia, to Stafford, to Virginia Beach, and now Blacksburg.
Fairfax Board Objects to Governor’s Transit Funding Game
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors signed a regional letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Connaughton on Tuesday, June 19, objecting to the administration’s attempt to circumvent the efficient transit funding system used successfully in Northern Virginia for decades.
Fitness Center Members Receive Lifesaving Award
On June 18, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Ed Brinkley presented Life Saving certificates to Mary Butler, Damian Hawkins, Nick Taktak, Sandy Weaver, Minh Huynh and Chuck Wright for their efforts to help save the life of fellow Fairfax County employee Gary Oswald on Feb. 24.
Classified Advertising
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Wednesday, June 20
Column: Where To Begin?
I realize this admission may sound weird, but having cancer is boring. Don’t get me wrong, I’m lucky to be alive, and quite happy about it, too. But waiting for the other shoe to drop, i.e. some bad cancer news to appear (lab work, scan, advisory from my oncologist), is tiresome because it’s always so worrisome.
First County Shelter Becoming ‘Residences at Mondloch’
Mondloch House undergoes renovation, will include 20 affordable housing units.
Fairfax County’s focus on ending homelessness took a step forward this month when the county began renovating its first ever homeless shelter - Mondloch House - to increase housing opportunities for single adults.
Tuesday, June 19
Local Real Estate: Sold $575,000~$599,999 in April 2012
Local Real Estate: Sold $575,000~$599,999 in April 2012
Making the Most of Summer
Advice for planning warm weather activities for children.
"I’m bored, there’s nothing to do," is a phrase often uttered by children during the summer. The end of the school year leaves many parents scrambling for activities to keep their young ones active and stimulated. Experts say it is important to plan activities to keep children safe and out of trouble.
Editorial: Summer Projects
Reader input needed for community guides, Pet Connection.
The summer is in full swing at the Connection, with many interns and staff members focused on some light and some more serious summer projects.
Burke Home Sales: May, 2012
In May 2012, 78 Burke homes sold between $685,000-$212,000.
Burke Home Sales in May, 2012
Monday, June 18
Bruins' Postseason Soccer Run Ends at State Semis
After tough start to season, Lake Braddock emerged as region power.
Lake Braddock Secondary's dramatic turnaround boys' soccer season in which the Bruins won just two of their first nine games before emerging as a Patriot District and Northern Region force the remainder of the spring campaign came to a tough ending last Friday afternoon, June 8 at Westfield High School when the local squad lost its Virginia State AAA semifinals playoff game by penalty kicks to opponent Albemarle High of Charlottesville, 2-1.
Friday, June 15
Father's Day Photo Gallery 2012
We asked our readers to send in pictures in honor of Father's Day on Sunday, June 17. Here are their submissions.
Thursday, June 14
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
June 15-22.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Greenspring Honors Student Scholars
Local students who worked at Greenspring are candidates for $6,000 in scholarships toward higher education.
Since 1999, Greenspring Retirement Community has awarded scholarships to local high school students who have worked in various dining services capacities at the retirement community. In addition to receiving a wage, students may be eligible for scholarships paid directly to the college or professional school of each student’s choice.
Col. Perkins Comes to Greenspring
GOP nominee for Congress addresses residents’ healthcare concerns.
As Col. Chris Perkins spoke to an enthusiastic group of seniors at Greenspring in Springfield about his plans for Virginia’s 11th District, there were quite a few retired soldiers in the audience gathered to hear him. Perkins made it clear that he had a serious difference of opinion with his – now former - opponent, Ken Vaughn, on military funding.
Skateboarding for a Cause
SkateFest 2012 to raise money for Children's National Medical Center.
Skaters from all over Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and beyond will travel to Wakefield Skate Park in Annandale, on June 22 and 23 to participate in the 6th annual SkateFest. The festival celebrates National Go Skateboarding Day and raises money for Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Community Engagement Includes Philanthropy
Corporate and individual philanthropy are critical elements of engaged communities.
Robinson Student Receives Pamplin Leader Award
Anna Moh is the recipient of the 2012 Pamplin Leader Award at James W. Robinson Secondary School. The Pamplin Leader is a one-year, $1,000 tuition scholarship to Virginia Tech.
End-of-the-Year Art Show at Woodson High
On June 6, Woodson High School’s art students of all grades showcased their artwork for the community at the Woodson’s annual end-of-the-year Art Show. Senior art students enjoyed their last high school art show, while others experienced their first public showing.
Play Ball!
Cherry Run ES hits home run for special preschoolers.
The games were scheduled and called off three times because of rain, but on a sunny Friday, May 25, preschool students, teachers and family members got to "play ball" at Cherry Run Elementary School in Burke.
Burke Mom Inspired by ‘Sweet and Funny’
Ann Bonwill writes books about themes important to children.
For local children’s book writer Ann Bonwill, the passion for reading and writing began as a child growing up in Maryland. Her mother, a children’s librarian, let Bonwill read books in the corner of her library while she prepared her lessons in the evenings and on weekends.
Robinson Wins Cappie for Best Ensemble
Robinson Secondary School won a Cappie trophy at Sunday night’s 13th annual Cappie Awards at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
McDonnell Signs Bills to Eliminate Mandates on Localities
Supervisor Pat Herrity, chair of Governor’s task force, said legislation will streamline local government.
While visiting Central Virginia Community College in Lynchburg last week, Governor Robert McDonnell ceremonially signed nine bills that streamline or eliminate burdensome state mandates on local governments.
Rogers Leads Lake Braddock to State Baseball Title
Junior left-hander throws four-hit shutout, hits home run.
Lake Braddock captured the first baseball state championship in school history with a 4-0 victory against Kellam on June 9 at Westfield High School.
Robinson Boys Reach Semifinals
Rams defeat Mount Vernon in penalty-kick shootout.
Thanks to memories from practices with his club team, Robinson goalkeeper Josh Penn stepped up and sent the Rams boys' soccer team to the region semifinals.
Wednesday, June 13
Classified Advertising
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Editorial: Partnerships That Make a Difference
Strategic partnerships with businesses, community organizations, benefit public good and fill gaps since government cannot do it all.
A few weeks ago, the Connection was lucky enough to be included in a group of Fairfax County organizations honored for their efforts in giving back to the community.
Staving Off Mosquitoes
Chemical-free methods for controlling backyard pests.
Nothing spoils a backyard barbecue like a swarm of bloodthirsty mosquitoes. How does one keep bugs at bay without harsh chemicals? Local experts offer tips.
Trends in Landscape Design
Local tastemakers offer suggestions for making the most of backyard space.
Whether creating a tapestry of bold colors, a sanctuary to escape stress or simply a low maintenance landscape, local designers say taking a backyard from dull to dazzling is easier than one might think, and offer insight into hottest landscape elements as well as trends in sustainable design.
Column: Apparent, Now More Than Ever
I last celebrated my father’s day six years ago, in 2006. Six months later, in early December, he finally succumbed to that which had been ailing him: old age for sure, the effects of two strokes for certain and the realization that it was, as we like to say in our family: “Enough already.”
The Father Factor
Fairfax County’s "Fathers In Touch" program teaches men how to be fathers.
Calvin Robertson slams his fist down on the table and barks instructions to the 11 fathers seated around the table at the South Gate Community Center in Reston.
Learning from His Father’s Mistakes
Growing up estranged from his own father, one man decides to give his sons a different life.
Wanting the best for my two sons yet having concerns about raising them properly, my wife and I looked into various parenting education programs offered through Fairfax County. This is how I discovered the Fathers In Touch Program.
Thursday, June 7
West Springfield Upsets Lake Braddock for Region Baseball Title
Senior pitcher Tobin leads Spartans to victory with 8 1/3-inning effort.
Tyler Tobin shut down the Lake Braddock lineup in an extra-inning affair, leading West Springfield to a 3-2, nine-inning victory and the Northern Region baseball championship at Madison High School.
Female Korean Veterans Honored at Greenspring
Seven Springfield women recognized for service in "Forgotten War."
Libby Haynes was in the middle of her freshman year of high school at George Washington in Alexandria when the Japanese Navy bombed the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Nearly 2,500 Americans were killed in the surprise attack.
Keene Mill Elementary Celebrates 50th Birthday
Keene Mill Kangaroos marks half century milestone.
Keene Mill Elementary School welcomed more than 300 students, parents, teachers and guests for its 50th "birthday" celebration Monday, June 4.
Mulan Delights Crowds in Northern Virginia Players Production
Northern Virginia Players performed to sellout crowds during a two-week run of Disney’s Mulan Jr. at Burke Community Church. The production featured 64 actors ranging in age from 6 to 18, said Ann Eul, the show’s co-director along with Kate Wittig. "This was an amazing production," Wittig said.
Celebrate Fairfax Honors 2012 ‘Lords and Ladies’
Honorees saluted for community volunteerism.
Celebrate Fairfax kicked off its 30th anniversary with a salute to the 2012 Lord and Lady Fairfax Honorees during a dinner and awards ceremony at the Fairfax County Government Center Tuesday, June 5.
Whoville Hits Fairfax
Premiere set for Friday, June 8 at The Church of the Good Shepherd in Burke.
A group of over 70 performers made up of everything from former Coast Guard members to financial planners, will all take on different roles of characters from some of the most beloved children's literature of all time.
‘Whatever I Do Will Only Make Me Stronger’
Robinson student wins Hispanic Leadership Alliance scholarship.
Born in Bolivia, Lucia Maldonado came to the U.S. at age 7 with her mother and younger sister. Now 18, she’s about to graduate from Robinson Secondary School and is the recipient of a Hispanic Leadership Alliance (HLA) scholarship.
Planning for the Future
Robinson’s Latin American Student Association is growing.
To encourage leadership among Robinson Secondary School’s Hispanic population, Ruth Azimi and Enrique Fernandez co-sponsor LASA, the Latin American Students Association. It’s helping the students’ parents, as well.
In Region Soccer Title Game, Robinson Boys Prevail
Yardley's overtime goal lifts Rams past local rival Lake Braddock.
In a tense, back and forth championship game last Saturday night at Robinson Secondary, local high school boys' soccer opponents Robinson and Lake Braddock played with emotion, grit, and determination through an entire 80 minutes of regulation play and nearly 10 more minutes of overtime before the region title game's first and only goal was scored.
Patriot District Well-Represented at Baseball Region Semis
Bruins, Spartans both win to advance to title game.
A trip to the Northern Region tournament title game and a seeding in the state playoffs were on the line last Wednesday evening, May 30 at Madison High School in Vienna where two regional semifinals baseball games took place. The double-header postseason action showcased contests between Lake Braddock and Westfield, followed by West Springfield versus Langley in the nightcap. At night's end, it was the two teams from the Patriot District - Lake Braddock and West Springfield - which won, both in decisive fashion, to earn a spot in Saturday's finals where West Springfield edged the Bruins, 3-2, for the championship.
Wednesday, June 6
The Power of Touch
Reiki masters credit the practice with promoting healing.
"May I touch you?" asks Marion Werner, a willowy woman with shoulder-length blonde hair. Her hands descend lightly on her patient’s chest.
Editorial: Primary Voting
Statewide primary on Tuesday, June 12.
On Tuesday, June 12, Virginia will hold a statewide Republican primary for U.S. Senate, plus numerous more local primaries for U.S. House of Representatives and localities.
Classified Advertising
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Column: Haven’t I Learned Anything?
I’m not going to beat myself up too badly; after all, I do have terminal cancer. However, I am disappointed in my behavior of late, especially as it relates to my status as a still-active (thank God!) cancer patient/survivor undergoing treatment.
Tuesday, June 5
Fairfax County Board Expands Scope of Community Services Board Audit
Social service agency scrutinized for projected $9 million shortfall that threatens services to children and disabled.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved a motion Tuesday, June 5, to expand the scope of a financial audit for the 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.
Friday, June 1
Weather Alert: Fairfax County, Entire National Capital Area (Friday, June 1, 2012)
Severe Weather to Impact Area; Tornado Watch Until 9 p.m.
The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch until 9 p.m. for Fairfax County and the entire National Capital Area. Thunderstorms, heavy rains, wind, large hail and potential flooding are also expected beginning this afternoon.
Burke Honors the Fallen
Down a private road, just off the heavily-traveled Burke Centre Parkway, about 30 people gathered under the shade of a large Oak tree Monday to honor those who sacrificed their lives defending our freedoms.
‘Mulan’ Comes to Burke
Northern Virginia Players present Disney classic.
Northern Virginia Players will perform Disney’s "Mulan Jr." during the production’s final weekend at Burke Community Church.