Stories for March 2015

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Shepherd's Center of Fairfax-Burke Hosts Spring Fashion Show

The Shepherd's Center of Fairfax-Burke held its first fashion show for the fashion conscious women of Fairfax and Burke.

Del. Dave Albo to Seek Re-election

Del. Dave Albo (R-42) recently announced he had submitted paperwork on March 18 to run in the Republican primary and seek re-election for his seat.

West Springfield High School Hosts Job and Opportunity Fair

Robinson graduate Jackson Muse was looking for some professional direction. Currently a junior political science major at Shepherd University in West Virginia, he’s worked at Barnes & Noble but is potentially interested in counseling for the Fairfax County Park Authority, or helping open the new Wegmans at Hilltop Village Center.

Del. David Bulova's Safe Sleep for Infants Bill Signed Into Law

On March 17, Governor McAuliffe signed into law House Bill 1515 sponsored by Del. David Bulova (D-37) to require that hospitals and others providing maternity care give new parents information on safe sleep environments for newborns.

Classes Canceled after Bomb Threat at Lake Braddock Secondary School

Lake Braddock Secondary School staff received a bomb threat via email, according to the school and Fairfax County Public schools representative John Torre.

Police Investigating Reported Assault of Two Mongolian Students in Burke

Two students from Mongolia were reportedly given alcohol and sexually assaulted in a Burke area house on March 8, according to Fairfax County Police.

League of Women Voters Hosts Forum on Firearms, Domestic Violence and Suicide in Burke

Among intimate partner homicides in Fairfax County in 2009 and 2010, firearms were the fatal weapon 60 percent of the time, nearly double the next closest implement: knives. Fairfax County domestic violence coordinator Sandra Bromley shared this and further information at an information forum on gun use in domestic violence and suicide held at Pohick Library on March 22.

Fairfax: Is Robinson Boys Lacrosse Team Confident or Cocky?

Defending state champion Rams have high expectations.

Robinson improved to 3-0 with win over Dominion.

Column: Health Matters More

I realize money doesn’t buy happiness, although I wouldn’t mind renting it.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

Burke Home Sales: February, 2015

In February, 2015, 31 Burke homes sold between $640,000-$255,000.

Burke 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.

Lake Braddock and Robinson Update Security

According to school releases, Lake Braddock and Robinson Secondary Schools have each updated security features on their campuses.

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.

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.

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.

Woodson Boys' Basketball Falls in State Semis for Third Straight Season

Cavaliers can't get over hump against defending 6A champ Colonial Forge.

The Woodson boys' basketball team lost to Colonial Forge 59-51 Friday in the 6A state semifinals.

ROUNDUP: Woodson Boys Lose, Westfield Boys Win in 3OT

Madison girls lose in OT, Oakton girls fall to hot-handed Bethel.

Roundup of 6A state semifinal action.

Column: The World Comes to Fairfax

World Police & Fire to be held in Fairfax County this summer.

From June 26 to July 5, Fairfax County will host the 16th World Police & Fire Games. This international event—one of the largest of its kind—will attract between 15,000 to 30,000 visitors from all over the world, and will feature over 12,000 police officers, firefighters, customs, and correction officers competing in over 65 different sporting events.

Clifton Boy Scout Rescues Kayaker During Fishing Trip

A casual vacation trip turned serious when 12-year-old Daniel Hillenburg, from Clifton, had to nearly save a man’s life while him and his family were on a fishing trip near Talkeetna, Alaska last summer.

‘Mary Poppins’ at Burke Presbyterian

More than 50 junior and senior high school youth from Burke Presbyterian Church (BPC) presented the musical “Mary Poppins” on March 6-8. The church, transformed by more than 26 hand-painted panels into early 20th century London, was packed for each of the four performances.

Burke Freshman Team Wins Top Honors at Robotics Contest

“It’s a big deal,” said Doug Desrochers, coach of the Burke robotics team The Blockheads. He said, “The competition was fierce” at the First Tech Challenge Virginia Championship held in Richmond on Saturday, Feb. 28. But what gave freshmen Sam Bove, of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Roger Clanton, David Desrochers, Paul Han, and Amanda Nguyen, of Lake Braddock High School, an advantage was their use of 3D printing technology.

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.

John Cook Announces Re-Election Bid for Braddock Supervisor

Supervisor John Cook (R-Braddock) was first elected to represent the Braddock district in a 2009 special election. He won his first full term in 2011 and on March 3 formally announced he would seek another term to sit on the Board of Supervisors.

Fairfax League of Women Voters to Hold Firearms Forum in Burke

What is Fairfax County doing to cut down on firearms-related suicide and domestic violence? The Fairfax-area League of Women Voters will host an informational public forum to discuss the topic at Pohick Regional Library in Burke on March 22.

Westfield Boys’ Basketball Team Wins 6A North Region Title

Bulldogs defense puts clamps on defending champ Woodson.

Westfield beat Woodson 52-43 in the 6A North region final.

Fairfax Gymnast Barborek Wins State All-Around Title

Senior takes advantage of second chance, wins as alternate.

Fairfax gymnast Rachel Barborek won the state all-around title.

Column: How Lucky Am I

You’ll note there’s no question mark after the “I.”

Police Investigate Spotlighting Incident

Police are investigating an incident involving spotlighting the agency’s helicopter, creating dangerous visibility issues for the pilot and crew.

Letter: An Inspiring Story

To the Editor

The article “Fairfax County Animal Shelter Gets Creative to Save Lives,” (Connection, February 26-March 4, 2015) inspired me by how dedicated the volunteers are to provide the best care for the animals they take in and find them a new home as soon as possible.

Day of Celebration: Homeless No More in Fairfax

The first residents move into Kate’s Place.

Kate’s Place consists of six apartments for extremely low-income and formerly homeless families. And to the mothers and children who just moved in, the homes are more than a roof over their heads — they’re a lifeline.

Ayoub Shoots Woodson Boys' Basketabll into Third Consecutive Region Final

Cavaliers will face Westfield in 6A North region championship game Saturday.

Woodson defeated Battlefield 80-66 Wednesday.

Public Commission To Review Police Policy

Over some objections, Bulova launches ad hoc commission in wake of police shooting and obfuscation.

Supervisor Michael Frey did not mince words when voicing opposition to Chairman Sharon Bulova’s establishment of an ad hoc police commission on Tuesday, March 3.

Swimmers From Around Fairfax County Raise $23,000 for Breast Cancer Research

In the last five years, young swimmers on the Shark Tank Racing Squad have seen one family lose a mother from breast cancer and another’s grandmother diagnosed.

Burke Racquet & Swim Club Celebrates 30 Years with Fitness Fair

Lynnda Gendron of Burke has worked at the Burke Racquet & Swim Club for 27 of its 30 years of operation.

2015 General Assembly Session Draws to a Close

The 45-day 2015 session of the Virginia General Assembly came to a close last week, one which Del. Scott Surovell (D-44) described as “pretty calm, mainly because guys on either side have stayed away from divisive social issues they’ve pushed in the past,” and Sen. Toddy Puller (D-36) assessed, “For the most part, I think they did accomplish some good things.”

New Packaging Brewing Company Opens in Lorton

With the capacity to churn out over 4,000 barrels annually, Fair Winds Brewing Company in Lorton can claim the title of Fairfax County’s largest packaging brewery.

“Oliver!” To Open at Church of the Good Shepherd in Burke

Springfield resident Nancy Lavallee is an attorney by day, but has done theater all her life. And for the last three years, in her free time, she’s traded the courtroom for the director’s chair, leading the Good Shepherd Players in productions of “The Sound of Music” and “Godspell.”

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.