Wednesday, September 27
Looming Crisis
Understanding the impacts and consequences of a Government Shutdown
Government shutdown
County Takes Another Step with Solar Fire Stations
Woodlawn station goes solar in Mount Vernon.
Solar powered station
A Place at the Table for Everyone Born
Some catchy phrases that led to success at the ballot box resulted in some terrible public policies.
News Briefs
Out of the Darkness Walk to Prevent Suicide
High Side and Mara Holding Pinktoberfest
Fun event to raise money to fight breast cancer.
Two Old Town Fairfax businesses, High Side and Mara Hair and Mode Studio, are joining together for the third consecutive year to fight breast cancer with a community-centered event.
Brush Piles – Headaches or Havens?
From chipmunks to chickadees, these can shelter local wildlife.
Tropical storm Ophelia soaked the Washington area last weekend, leaving behind, among other impacts, fallen limbs and sticks scattered around. Instead of becoming landfill or incinerator material, they can support local wildlife, from chipmunks to chickadees.
PRS Reaches Spanish Speakers with Content and Outreach
PRS, a behavioral health nonprofit serving Northern Virginia which operates as the Regional Crisis Call Center for most of Virginia, has enhanced its offerings and outreach to the Northern Virginia Spanish speaking community.
Fairfax City Receives $1 Million Tree Grant
For 36 consecutive years, Fairfax City has been recognized as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. And now, a $1 million grant recently awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service will help the City continue to grow and maintain its urban forest.
Soil & Water Candidates Weigh In on Lake Accotink
Earlier this year, continuing discussion around sediment and flooding problems, including a recommendation to let Lake Accotink fill in and become a wetland, raised concern among some area residents.
Residents Speak Out Against Data Center
Say environment and people’s health should matter more.
Speaking before the Fairfax County Planning Commission last week, opponents of the gigantic data center proposed for construction near Chantilly’s Pleasant Valley community attacked the project from every angle.
Planning Commission Approves Chantilly Data Center
Despite unanswered questions, clock was ticking.
Members of Chantilly’s Pleasant Valley community did all they could last week to convince the Fairfax County Planning Commission that allowing construction of a huge data center near their homes would be a terrible idea.
Second Story Backpacks from Women’s Club of McLean
The Woman’s Club of McLean has long supported Second Story, a non profit organization in Fairfax County providing counseling and residential housing for teens, young mothers, and their children who were living in unsafe residential situations.
Homes Sold Faster and Prices Jumped More
Median sold price for a home in August reached $700,000 in Northern Virginia
Even though sales declined regionally and nationally, inventory was lower and prices grew faster in the Northern Virginia real estate market than nationally in August, according to the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.
One Dead in Two-Car Crash
An 89-year-old man died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash Saturday morning on Ox Road in West Springfield.
Woodson High Presents New Play, ‘The Trials’
Poses serious questions about climate-change responsibility.
Woodson High’s new play, “The Trials,” is set in the near future, when the climate emergency is worsening and all adults who’ve adversely impacted the climate are put on trial.
Fall Book Sale at Duncan Library
Fall Book Sale at Duncan Library from Wednesday, Sept. 27 to Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023.
Michael Freedman
Mike Freedman, who found respite in radio early on and would become a radio network executive, journalism professor and university administrator, died at home in Alexandria, Va., surrounded by his family, on Sept. 18 from pancreatic cancer. He was 71.
Caregiving Corner
My Loved One Has Dementia. What Do I Say or Do?
“We want our loved ones to smile.” — Speech language pathologist Susan Wranik
‘In Darkness There Is Light’
Alexandria Police Department unveils Suicide Memorial.
“Make no mistake -- they are and will always be our brothers in blue.” — Retired Police Chief David Baker
Change Comes in the Form of an El Salvador Flag and Pupusas in Rose Hill
New owners and new menu attract fans at Mama Mia’s.
New Mama Mia's
Letter: Eliminating Animal Protection Police?
Letter to the Editor
Chief to Present Foot Pursuit Policy to Supervisors
Oct. 3 Public Safety Committee meeting will bring some long awaited responses from FCPD.
Foot
Students Protest VDOE’s Policies
Flash point awaits as some schools balk at implementing policies.
Policies
Parktober Events in Fairfax
Fall events
Long Time Career Forester Retires
Master Naturalists honor Jim McGlone
Master Naturalists honor Jim McGlone retires
Race for Soil & Water Conservation District Board
Get to know the candidates, and the Board
Soil Board
Friday, September 22
SMASHBURGER OPENS FIRST FULL BAR RESTAURANT IN VIRGINIA
Alexandria restaurant marks the 6th location in the state
Smashburger
Wednesday, September 20
Beyer Shares Constituent Stories Of Hardship From 2018-19 Government Shutdown
Shutdowns are very bad, actually.
Editorial
Roadside Business Signs Stand the Test of Time
Old signs spur nostalgia and familiarity in Mount Vernon.
Roadside signs
Newington Residents Speak Out on Dangerous Cut-Through
Along Newington Road, a sidewalk would help pedestrians and cyclists.
Newington Rd
Keeping a Republic
History records that at the end of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787 Benjamin Franklin who was the senior member of the Convention was asked what kind of government the delegates who had sweltered through months of heat and compromises had produced. His oft-quoted response was “a republic if we can keep it.”
More Than Meets the Eye
McLean Community Center’s Fall Community Parking Lot Sale
On Saturday, Sept. 16, the McLean Community Center held its much-anticipated Fall Community Parking Lot Sale.
Celebrating Citizenship
Goodwin House honors newest U.S. citizens.
“It is the many places, people and cultures that makes the United States so special.” — New U.S. citizen Nada Boris
‘We Focus on Hot Spots’
Learning about Sully Police Station’s bike team.
Officially called the Neighborhood Patrol Unit, the Sully District Police Station’s Bike Team is a valuable asset to both the police department and the community.
Early Voting Begins September 22nd
Get ready for the upcoming November General Election in Fairfax County, where all 140 seats in the Virginia General Assembly are up for grabs. Along with Senate and House seats, 12 other local offices are on the ballot, including Clerk of Court, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Sheriff, Chairman of Board of Supervisors, District Supervisor, School Board Members At-Large, District School Board Member, and Soil and Water Board Members.
‘People Can Feel Safe Leaving their Dogs Here’
The Dog Stop opens in Centreville Square.
The Dog Stop held its grand opening, Saturday, Sept. 9, in the Centreville Square Shopping Center in Centreville.
We the People
Students, DAR celebrate Constitution Week at City Hall.
“Our Constitution is one that has stood the test of time -- longer than any other in world history.” — DAR Constitution Week chair Linda Ferrara
Seniors Thrive in South Fairfax
Dedicated, beautiful 55+ communities like Spring Hill, The Fairfax, Gum Springs Glen and the new North Hill make the Mount Vernon District a great place to age in place.
Sully Community Day Is Sept. 30
All community members are invited to attend the first-ever Sully Community Day on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
22 Years Later, Lest We Forget
Each year on Sept. 11, the front lawn of West Centreville Fire Station 38 is adorned with multitudes of small, American flags.
9/11 at Great Falls Freedom Memorial 2023
The community of Great Falls remains deeply affected by the repercussions of that tragic day 22 years ago.
Celebrating a Century
City celebrates local centenarians.
“I have such a wonderful family. I count my blessings.” — 102-year-old Walter Hammersley
Remembering Parker-Gray
Alumni Brooks is honored at 103rd anniversary.
rig. Gen. Leo A. Brooks Sr. (ret) was the guest of honor at the 103rd anniversary of Parker-Gray High School held Sept. 9 at the Nannie J. Lee Center.
Knock Out Visit
Olympian Isley returns to Lyles-Crouch.
“You can accomplish anything.” — Olympian Troy Isley
Ice Hockey Gets Another Grip on Fairfax County
Skates, sticks and pucks are part of the selection at the new hockey store, Pure Hockey, in Springfield.
Hockey store opens
Tuesday, September 19
Great Falls Author Unravels an Eight-Generation Truth
"The Politzer Saga" tells the story of a remarkable family whose history was shrouded in secrecy when they came to the U.S.
Author
Amazon Delivery Vans Support Local School, Fight Teen Hunger
Hundreds of local volunteers joined Food For Neighbors in the fight against teen food insecurity.
Teen Hunger Event
September Is Suicide Prevention Month
Suicide Prevention
Friday, September 15
Potomac Home Sales: August, 2023
In August, 2023, 39 Potomac homes sold between $3,900,000-$600,000.
Potomac Home Sales: August, 2023
Thursday, September 14
Our National Park
George Washington Memorial Parkway has at least 25 species of mammals, 243 birds, six native turtles, 99 trees and 591 wildflowers.
GW Park
Fun Highlights in Mount Vernon, Welcoming to All
Mount Vernon Newcomers & Community Guide 2023
Scenes in Mount Vernon
Wednesday, September 13
No Miracle in Virginia Student Test Scores
There was more than a week delay in announcing Virginia student test scores this year. Last week we learned why.
September Is Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention month, but it is always time to raise awareness, strengthen the dialogue and remind individuals, friends and families about resources that are available.
Lake Braddock Holds off Westfield To Improve to 2-1
In a low scoring football game in Burke, the Lake Braddock Bruins narrowly held on to beat the Westfield Bulldogs 9-7 on Friday, Sept. 8.
How One Data Center Will Change Fairfax County … For the Worse
A rezoning to accommodate the tallest data center in Fairfax County is up for a vote by the Planning Commissioners at a Public Hearing, Sept. 20, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at 12000 Government Center Parkway (application RZ 2022-SU-00019/SE 2022-SU-00038). It will be adjacent to a resource protection area and a tributary to our drinking water, within earshot of a residential community, and of a size that is completely out of character for the area and threatens airport navigation. If approved, it will set a dangerous precedent.
Exercising Democratic Rights to Reduce Cafeteria Waste
A group of students from Great Falls Elementary and Cooper Middle Schools collected over a hundred signatures for a petition on reducing cafeteria waste. They then delivered the petition to Congressmen Gerry Connolly and Don Beyer’s offices on Sept. 1.
What’s on the Road Ahead for Centreville, Chantilly
Transportation projects and affordable senior homes.
In hopes of easing traffic congestion in the local area, several transportation projects are either planned or underway in Centreville and Chantilly.
Supervisors Adopt Reston Comprehensive Plan
On Tuesday, Sept. 12, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors adopted the new Reston Comprehensive Plan which includes updates to guidance for topics like affordable housing, open space and community health.
900 Apartments Coming to the Town of Herndon
When Quadrangle Development Corporation builds its two office towers in the Town of Herndon, they will be the tallest buildings ever constructed within the town’s boundaries.
Great Falls Community Assoc. To Hold Election Forum
On Sept. 27, at 5:30 p.m., the Great Falls Community Association will hold an election forum at the Grange for members and the public. The six Dranesville Supervisor, House, and Senate candidates will discuss Great Falls issues relevant to their offices.
Popular Entertainment Spots and Nearby Eats in South County
Interesting places to pair food and fun
The south county areas of Springfield, Lorton, Clifton, Fairfax and Fairfax Station are fortunate to have interesting attractions to enjoy for entertainment, exercise, nature and history.
Fairfax City Looks Toward the Horizon
Mixed uses, multifamily homes, stores and businesses planned.
Fairfax City is proud of its historic Old Town parks and schools, while warmly welcoming new residents, businesses and commercial development throughout the City.
Special Events, All Year ’Round in Fairfax City
When it comes to special events, it’s hard to beat Fairfax City for the number and variety of entertaining, family-friendly events it holds all year long.
Lido Civic Club Supports Paul VI Options Athletics
The Lido Civic Club of Washington D.C. donated $5,000 recently to benefit St. Paul VI Catholic High School’s (PVI) Options athletics program.
Six Months Late, Finally a Budget
Raising Virginia’s standard deduction from just $3000/$6000 to almost three times that amount causes an annual revenue loss of over $1.1 billion.
Budget
Year One, the 2023 Annual Report in South Fairfax
Steps taken to implement Fairfax County Strategic Plan.
South Annual Report
September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.
September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.
Waitlists Open for Affordable Housing
Waitlists Open for Affordable Housing
Wednesday, September 6
Budgets Set Policy Directions
“I predict [the conference committee compromise] will be accepted as the best compromise that can be reached at this time.”
Climate Action Conference at Lake Braddock
Supervisor James Walkinshaw will hold his first Climate Action Conference at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Saturday, Sept. 30.
Nature’s Late Summer Bounty
Nature’s fresh produce market is open with its bounty of late season offerings of nectar, fruits, and nuts for insects, birds, and mammals.
‘Every Day is Beautiful’
Families celebrate milestone birthdays.
“I have a beautiful family and could not ask for more.” — Norma Safren celebrating her 93rd birthday.
Alexandria News Briefs
Alexandria News Briefs
Fall and Halloween Events in Alexandria
Fall Events in Alexandria
Labor Day is So Much More
Every year on Labor Day it is important to pause to reflect on the monumental contributions of laborers that have shaped the prosperity of Virginia and our nation as a whole.
Cool Cars Brighten Sweltering Summer Day
More than 6,500 people attended the 24th annual Labor Day Car Show in Fairfax City.
More than 6,500 people attended the 24th annual Labor Day Car Show in Fairfax City.
Simpson Named Business Leader of the Year
Best in Business reception slated for Oct. 12.
“Our family has always been involved in the community.” — Donald Simpson Jr.
Virginia Native American Festival
Riverbend Park's Virginia Native American Festival is on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Women’s Summit in Tyson's Hilton Coalesces Local Women
Next election alarms many who see women’s rights infringed
There is nothing quite like entering a ballroom overflowing with 1,000 (mostly) women to understand the effect the last few years have had on Virginians. They are fired up. One could hear the buzz all the way down the hall.
NoVa Sr. Olympics Hits Record Registration
Registration for the 2023 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics has hit a record number of 924, up 11% over last year.
Providing Access to Fresh, Healthy Food
WFCM’s second, client-choice pantry opens in Centreville.
Fairfax County is a great place to live – for those earning enough money to keep a roof over their heads, pay their bills and feed their families. But people struggling to make ends meet often turn to Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) for help.
‘He’s Still Here; My Uncle Will Be Gone Forever’
Green sentenced to prison for killing Chantilly man.
“Nothing the victim did that night justified his death, nor did anything Ms. Osorio Cordero did warrant [Green’s] malicious assault on her.” — Judge David Oblon, Fairfax County Circuit Court
Michelin-Starred Chef Perfects Vegan Ice Cream
Store’s ribbon cutting is on Saturday.
When it comes to eating ice cream, the top priority for most individuals is undoubtedly the combination of great taste and the right texture — hard to do with vegan ice cream.
Affordable Housing-Talk Not Action in Fairfax, Reston
The shortage of affordable housing in Fairfax County and Reston rarely gets the analytical attention that the Connection’s edition of August 16-22 delivered in Mercia Hobson’s “3rd Wealthiest County in U.S. Fails to Provide Affordable Housing.” The article is based on conversations with several knowledgeable staff members of one excellent Reston’s charitable organization, Cornerstones, people serving the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless.
Westfield v. Mount Vernon
Westfield scores on its first possession and finishes 42-0.
The Westfield Bulldogs faced the Mount Vernon Majors on Thursday Aug. 31, 2023 in Chantilly for a non conference matchup.
News Briefs
briefs
Neighborhood Restaurant with Upscale, Modern Feel
After a year in Fairfax City, Draper’s holds ribbon cutting.
Draper’s Steak & Seafood, at 3936 Blenheim Blvd. in Fairfax, is in a location steeped in history.
Barricade Ends Peacefully
A man was safely taken into custody following a 6-hour barricade that ended around 10 p.m Aug. 29, in a neighborhood near Monument Drive and Government Center Parkway.
Springfield Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash
A 22-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on the afternoon of Aug. 31, 2023 in Fairfax Station.
Roundups
Roundups
Professionals Learn More About Native Plants
Native plants may be climate change survivors
Imagine a world without forests. Lands unable to control soil erosion, filter and clean water, control temperatures, store carbon, provide building materials, produce food and medicines, or soothe the soul with the sound of rustling leaves.
Never Forget
City to mark anniversary of 9-11 attacks.
“We claim this ground in remembrance of the events of September 11, 2001. To honor the 184 people whose lives were lost, their families, and all who sacrifice that we may live in freedom. We will never forget.” — Pentagon 9-11 Memorial inscription.
A Noteworthy Milestone
Alexandria Harmonizers celebrate 75 years.
The Alexandria Harmonizers, Alexandria’s own internationally acclaimed a cappella performing group, will celebrate their 75th diamond anniversary with a special performance Sept. 9 at the Rachel M Schlesinger Concert Hall on the Alexandria campus of Northern Virginia Community College.
3 Dates to Circle for Dining in September
A trio of celebrations awaits this month, ranging from an arts-and-cocktails soiree early on to a celebration of Oktoberfest to a bluegrass brunch to beat the band. Kick off the journey to autumn with some September fun – here are some of the month’s best bets.
Wetlands Ordinance – Existing Bulkheads Generally Grandfathered
There has been a lot of information and misinformation being shared with community members, especially those who live along our waterways, as to what is permitted or not permitted based on the 2020 Virginia Wetlands law.
17 Year Old Arrested For Murder
FCPD Detectives from the Mount Vernon Police District arrested a 17-year-old suspect in a fatal shooting in a Woodlawn parking lot on Friday, Sept. 1.
New Police Commander Urges Community Dialogue
“This is your police department.”
“It takes a lot to work in the Mount Vernon district,” Fairfax County police Captain Marc Mitchell told his audience at an Aug. 30 “Meet the Commander” gathering at the Sherwood Regional Library.
