Friday, August 30
Column: From Weak to Week
Eight days and seven nights. Not exactly the vacation I was planning. Nevertheless, admitted to the hospital on Friday, August 2nd. Discharged on Friday, August 9th: that was my hospital “staycation.” Though I definitely improved as the post-surgical week went on, the process itself – specifically, nearly four days in S.I.C.U. (Surgical Intensive Care) with round-the-clock monitoring, nursing and doctoring – was hardly restful. In fact, if you read the following prose, you’ll presumably develop an understanding of the cons.
Every Year Is Election Year in Virginia
Northern Virginia has most two-party races on ballot.
While the Virginia governor’s race is the one getting the most attention, both nationally and in the state, Virginia’s House of Delegates race is shaping up to be the most competitive in a decade. According to an official candidate list released last month by the Virginia State Board of Elections, 57 House seats will be contested this November — marking only the second time in the last decade where at least half of the 100 House seats will have more than one name on the ballot.
What in the World Does a Supervisor Do, and Why Should We Care?
Local Government 101: Where the rubber meets the road.
We see them at just about every community event. They manage a budget larger than the budgets of four states, and rule over a county with a diverse, well-educated population of more than a million people. The 10 members of the Fairfax County Supervisors have an intense, time-consuming, insanely detailed job, one that comes with enormous power and even more responsibilities. They impact our lives in large and small ways, allocating money and resources in ways that can propel our community forward—or cost us our first-rate status in education, livability and culture. Yet most of us, media included, are so focused on politics at the state and national level that we overlook the decision-makers in our own backyard.
Obsessed With Politics? Fairfax County Welcomes You!
What newcomers need to know to be politically-savvy insiders.
Fairfax County may be physically separated from Washington, D.C.—the ground-zero of All Things Political—but residents here are a politically-savvy bunch. We know who Larry Sabato is—a prominent University of Virginia political analyst—and we pay attention to Not Larry Sabato—a Virginia politics blog by Ben Tribbett, a Fairfax County resident and self-described “vicious campaign insultant.” We follow our politicians on Twitter and Facebook.
Supervisors Give Us Their Best “Insider” Tips
Fairfax County has a fantastic park and library system, with tons of activities to enjoy. One of my personal favorites is the Cardboard Boat Regatta at Lake Accotink Park every summer.
An Insider's Guide to the Arts in Northern Virginia
A selection of upcoming arts productions, happening right where you live.
There are more artists of every stripe making art in Northern Virginia than you may realize. Populating the bedroom communities, small towns, growing cities and metropolitan areas of Fairfax County, Arlington and Alexandria are your pick of dance, theatre, choral, symphonic, visual and performance, music and fill-in-the-blank groups. Look beyond Wolf Trap and Jammin' Java to the Torpedo Art Factory, the Workhouse Arts Center, and smaller, quality groups like ArtSpace Herndon and McLean Project for the Arts to cast their creative spell (that's only to name a few). Delve in and, we dare you, let your stereotypes of an artless string of suburbs dissolve. In place you'll get something much better than stereotypes: some culture.
Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia
Affiliated with Northern Virginia Community College, the Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia (LLI) is a non-profit, member-run organization dedicated to providing continuing educational opportunities to older adults of all backgrounds and income levels.
Thursday, August 29
Letter: Pulled Back to 18th Century
I read with interest Del. Barbara Comstock’s piece [“Investing in 21st Century Industries and Jobs,” Connection, August 21-27, 2013]. If Ms. Comstock really wants to make Virginia a welcoming destination for new businesses, she should stop voting for socially repressive and discriminatory legislation. Tax breaks and open land are not the only factors that companies consider when deciding to make a move. Top executives also consider traffic problems and education, both issues whose solutions Ms. Comstock has failed to support.
Insiders' Tips: Places to Visit in Dranesville District
Supervisor John W. Foust (D-Dranesville) recommends places to see in the area.
Newcomers to Dranesville should visit our beautiful Potomac riverfront parks. Scotts Run in McLean offers fantastic hiking trails and great views of the Potomac. Riverbend Park and Great Falls National Park in Great Falls have visitor centers, great trails, spectacular river views and scenic picnic areas.
Newcomers and the Community Guide; Get to Know Area Non-profits
Get to know the area non-profits!
Langley High Band to Hold Tag Day Fundraiser
On Saturday, Sept. 7, band members from Langley High School will participate in “Tag Day” throughout neighborhoods in McLean and Great Falls. Each year, the Langley High School Band raises money through door-to-door fundraising, “tagging” neighbors for their monetary support. In return, band members are personally inviting donors to come and enjoy one or all of Langley HS Bands free concerts held in the school auditorium in the winter and spring. The concerts are scheduled for early December and late February.
McLean Home Sales: July, 2013
In July 2013, 111 homes sold between $3,875,000-$138,500 in the McLean and Falls Church area.
McLean Home Sales: July, 2013
Police Investigate Death of 16-year-old Girl
On Friday, Aug. 23 police were in the area of the 8200 block of Madrillon Estates Drive, in the Vienna area, looking for a reported 16-year-old runaway girl. Around 11 a.m., officers located the body of the missing girl. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the medical examiner. The investigation is ongoing.
Insiders’ Tips: What Are Your Favorite Places in McLean?
After four dynamic years yielding him two Cappie awards and an EP of original songs, McLean’s Damian Leverett, 18, cites the food of Chop n Chicken at 1375 Beverly Road, McLean, as the main fuel to his fire. The recent McLean High School graduate says, “It was my favorite meal to have before performances. … They catered a few of our all-night rehearsal dinners and fed us in between matinee and evening shows.” The aspiring actor recommends the “Create Your Own” option which allows customers to add any three toppings to the restaurant’s namesake dish, but he adds that because “every dish has their delicious chopped chicken … it’s hard to go wrong.” As Leverett prepares to study acting at the Guthrie Theater BFA Program at the University of Minnesota, he reflects on the family-owned business as “definitely the restaurant I’ll miss most when I move away for college.”
Best Educated, Most Diverse
If you are a new resident of Fairfax County, or an employee working for a company new to the county, welcome!
New Superintendent Relishes Opportunity
A fan of Baylor grad RG3 … not Cowboys
Here in Fairfax, not only do we have the talent and the expertise to solve the problems facing us in FCPS, but we are uniquely positioned to solve the most pressing issues facing public schools across the country. -Karen K. Garza, Ph.D., superintendent, Fairfax County Public Schools
Insiders' Tips: What Do You Like Most About Living in McLean?
“I would say McLean is a really top quality residential area. The school system here is famous in Fairfax County. I’ve also enjoyed all the people I’ve met so far. Over 13 years, I have known many good neighbors, parents, teachers and other people involved in all kinds of organizations. Even during the daily grocery shopping experience, I just feel that things are so convenient and pleasant every time. The feeling I have about the culture of the community here is that everyone is looking for the best to contribute back to the community, especially the experience I had with Churchill Elementary School, Cooper Middle School and Langley High School so far.
Chamber Gives Voice to Businesses
The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce (Fairfax Chamber), the Voice of Business in Northern Virginia, represents 650 member companies with nearly 500,000 employees throughout the region.
Northern Virginia Senior Olympics
Online registration for the 2013 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics is open Deadline to register online is Aug. 30. The fee is $12. Participants can register online at www.nvso.us. Events take place Sept. 7-19 at 17 venues throughout Northern Virginia. Call 703-228-4721 for more.
Finding the Free Resources Available to McLean Residents
Many residents who are over 55 are unaware of the variety of information and services available to helping them stay in place comfortably, stay informed and stay connected within the McLean community. In May 2013, the Dranesville supervisor’s office hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at the McLean Community Center, launching the McLean Senior Source (MSS). After spending the past year navigating the system on behalf of my parents, I wish this resource had been available to me when I needed it.
Chambers
Find a comprehensive online listing of county business resources at http://www.fairfaxcountyeda.org/business-resources.
Meet Your McLean Area Non-profits
CTFund is a completely youth-run organization dedicated to helping malnourished and impoverished children in developing countries achieve a healthy and happy start to life. CTFund staff is composed solely of teenagers who are passionate about changing the lives of children around the world who are not as fortunate as they are.
McLean Project for the Arts Inspires Creativity With Classes, Festival
MPAartfest returns Oct. 6.
The 6th annual MPAartfest arrives on Sunday, Oct. 6, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in McLean Central Park, at the intersection of Dolley Madison Blvd. (Rt 123) and Old Dominion Drive.
Welcome to Fairfax County
Hello and welcome to Fairfax County!
A Year in Fairfax County
A sampling of some of the cherished, annual events of the county.
Upcoming events in the county.
Join McLean Citizens Association
MCA welcomes newcomers, invites residents to join and have a voice on issues affecting the community.
Welcome. Whether you are new to the McLean area or a long-time resident, we invite you to consider joining the McLean Citizens Association (MCA)—your “go-to” unofficial town council and voice on local, regional and state issues that affect our quality of life. Our membership area extends from the Mclean-Arlington border to Vienna on the Route 7 side of the Dulles Toll Road and Great Falls east of Difficult Run. It includes portions of the Falls Church 22043 and 22046, the Vienna 22182 and the Great Falls 22066 zip codes, as well as the entirety of the McLean-Tysons 22101 and 22102 zip codes.
McLean Chambers and Business Resources
Many organizations in McLean are here to serve your business and help connect you with the resources you need to make your business successful and to help it grow. Below are a list of business associations and chambers, in no particular order.
A Year of The Arts in McLean
A selection of upcoming theatre, music and art shows in the area.
The arts have many incarnations in McLean, from dance to symphony to visual art and more. We've highlighted the venues in your area and have also included a sampling of the upcoming events put on by your local arts organizations. See what exhibits, concerts and shows are coming to your area here.
Editorial: About the Connection
As your local, weekly newspaper, the Great Falls Connection’s mission is to bring the local news you need, to gather information about the best things in and near your community, to advocate for community good, to provide a forum for dialogue on local concerns, and to celebrate and record milestones and events in the community and people’s lives.
Classified Advertising August 8, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Wednesday, August 28
Metro and More Coming to McLean
Tysons redevelopment to highlight coming months.
Over the next few months changes will be abound in the McLean area, not least of which will be the arrival of trains on the Silver Line. While the trains themselves will carry people to and from McLean to other areas of the region, the areas surrounding the stations are undergoing many changes themselves.
Silver Line Brings New Opportunities
Metrorail line aims to connect Washington, D.C. with Dulles Airport by 2018.
When the first trains of Metro’s Silver Line start carrying passengers, around February 2014, it will mark a new era for Northern Virginia, particularly the northern part of Fairfax County. By 2018, riders from Ashburn, Sterling, Herndon, Reston and McLean will have access to Dulles Airport and Washington, D.C. via the Silver Line.
Thursday, August 22
Easing into Back to School
End-of-summer tips to make the first day of school less stressful
Area experts provide advice on easing into back to school.
Excerpts From King’s ‘I Have a Dream’
Martin Luther King Jr. spoke to the March on Washington 50 years ago next week, Aug. 28, 1963.
Excerpts from Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech: “Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of captivity.
Investing in 21st Century Industries and Jobs
The Northern Virginia region clearly faces economic threats and challenges as a result of sequestration and government downsizing. The national economy continues to stagnate. If you are looking for a bright sign on our local horizon—the data center industry, which is expected to still grow by hundreds of millions over the near future, is a sector to double down on.
Week in McLean
McLean Community Center begins fall registration; Charity Champions hold SHARE fundraiser.
The McLean Community Center (MCC) opened registration for its fall session classes, events and activities on Monday, Aug. 19, for the residents of Small District 1A-Dranesville who pay a special real estate tax surcharge to fund the center. All others can begin registering on Monday, Aug. 26.
What Are the Most Exciting Changes in McLean Area Schools?
“One of the things that we’re starting this year is that we’re having a Highlander Kickoff on Aug. 27. We’re trying to find a way to welcome the community and the kids back, and make it a fun atmosphere for everybody. It is a day for students to come get their schedules, pick up their parking and uniforms, meet some coaches, and for clubs to sell some stuff and start fundraising. It’s a day for everyone to get back in the mood and get ready for school. We’ll have food, cheerleaders, and the band. It will be the first time we’ll ever be doing it. The second thing is that we’re embedding our Highlander Time, which is our intervention period, so we’ll be having intervention everyday for half an hour so kids can meet with teachers, catch up on their homework and do things to de-stress during the school day. We also have a new instructional coach at our school, Kate Stavish, and she’ll be working with our teachers and team during the school day on curriculum and different components about teaching, so we’re very excited about that too.”
McLean High Student Wins Idol Competition
Alexander Stone of McLean received top honors in the 2013 Signature Theatre Idol competition on Aug. 3 at the Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre's annual Open House held in Arlington. Stone is a rising junior at McLean High School. The annual Signature Idol competition searches for talented, undiscovered singers in the DC metropolitan area. It is held in conjunction with the Signature Theatre Open House. For his first competition entry, Stone presented “In These Skies,” from the musical "Ace." Judges selected Stone to participate in the competition’s final round where he presented “Prayer” from "The Scarlet Pimpernel." The competition judges were Signature Theatre Artistic Director Eric Schaeffer, Broadway’s Tony Award nominee Carolee Carmello and WETA’s Robert Aubry Davis. Sarah Ann Sillers of Potomac, Md. was the runner-up.
2-Year-Old Completes Summer Reading Program
McLean resident Jet Christian Randolph, age 2, was recently congratulated by Chris LaMarca, the branch manager of the Fairfax County Library, Dolly Madison branch for reading or having 15 books read to him during the Fairfax County Public Library Summer Reading Program running through Aug. 31.
Back to School in Great Falls
Cooper encourages critical thinking; Langley revamps Saxon Time; Highlander Kickoff on Aug. 27.
“This year, Fairfax County Public Schools are upping the rigor; this doesn’t necessarily mean more work, but it will be more challenging. We’ll be asking students to think critically, look for creative solutions, and work in collaboration with one another. We’re working within the curriculum to find extensions that will bring about these skills. Of course, Cooper will also be welcoming new seventh-graders, and I advise them to come in with an open mind and take advantage of the opportunities to make new friends, because five elementary schools come together here. We will also have new Spanish, French, mathematics and band teachers. We’re looking forward to a great year.”
A New School Year in Great Falls
Cooper encourages critical thinking; Langley revamps Saxon Time; Highlander Kickoff on Aug. 27.
“This year, Fairfax County Public Schools are upping the rigor; this doesn’t necessarily mean more work, but it will be more challenging. We’ll be asking students to think critically, look for creative solutions, and work in collaboration with one another. We’re working within the curriculum to find extensions that will bring about these skills. Of course, Cooper will also be welcoming new seventh-graders, and I advise them to come in with an open mind and take advantage of the opportunities to make new friends, because five elementary schools come together here. We will also have new Spanish, French, mathematics and band teachers. We’re looking forward to a great year.”
Fairfax Republicans Nominate Bryan ‘BA’ Wolfe for Sheriff
Wolfe faces Democratic nominee Stacey Kincaid in Nov. 5 special election.
When retired Fairfax police officer Bryan “BA” Wolfe was selected as the Republican nominee for Fairfax County Sheriff last week, he vowed to “restore the public trust” by making the 500-member department more “accountable and transparent.”
Shedding Sunshine on the Secret World of Regulation in Virginia
Advisory panel rejects effort to open records of the State Corporation Commission.
Ever wonder what happens during deliberations that regulate payday lending? How about the effort to oversee your health insurance?
Tuesday, August 20
Women Leaders Gather at Great Falls Library
Del. Barbara Comstock (R-34) hosts Young Women’s Leadership Program.
Del. Barbara Comstock (R-34) welcomed author and political commentator Donna Brazile to her Young Women’s Leadership Program Tuesday, Aug. 13 at the Great Falls Library. Twenty-three young women, mostly middle and high schoolers, listened to Brazile tell her story and give advice on chasing their dreams.
Walmart Comes to Tysons Corner
New store at Tysons West is first "urban style" location.
Walmart opened their first urban-style location in the country in Tysons Corner Wednesday, Aug. 14. The store, which is one of their "supercenters," will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and serves as the anchor of the JBG Rosenfeld Retail-owned Tysons West.
Resurrecting The Post for a New Era
The Post has two upcoming gigs in Vienna and Alexandria.
Don’t let the minor chords fool you: The Post is made up of happy people. The band, originally started by guitarist Kate Jarosik and singer/pianist Chelsea Bryan during their time at the University of Virginia, took a brief hiatus after graduation but has started up again with some new musicians in Northern Virginia. Fresh off a successful stint through a Battle of the Bands at Jammin’ Java in Vienna, The Post is getting ready for a show there next Wednesday, Aug. 28 and another at St. Elmo’s in Alexandria Sept. 20.
Wednesday, August 14
Preserving History’s Jewels
Fairfax County considers new “resident curator” program to save historic properties.
“A successful resident curator program would allow the county to restore, maintain and protect important historic properties at little or no cost to the public.” —Cindy Walsh, Fairfax County Park Authority’s Resource Management Division director
Fairfax County Public Libraries: Version 2.0?
Staff, volunteers urge supervisors to reconsider “disastrous” library reorganization plan that cuts staff and services.
In a world where the Internet has replaced newsprint, e-books have supplanted paperbacks and the latest films stream directly to laptops, how do public libraries compete?
Classified Advertising August 14. 2013
Read the lastest ad here!
Is Your Home Ready for Back to School?
Local designers offer tips for creating functional and stylish homework spaces.
Summer will soon come to an end, and children everywhere will be heading back to school and coming home with homework. To keep students engaged and excited, some local designers offer suggestions for creating a space so fun and inviting that your children will want to hang out there — even if that means doing homework.
Outdoor Elegance Meets Cutting Edge Technology
A design/build team explores fine architecture in weather-resistant materials.
If anything in the summer of 2013 points to still evolving homeowner expectations, it may be the frequency with which locals are integrating screen porches, patios, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens into original landscaping schemes that artfully marry the house to its setting.
Geocaching Diversifies
Urbanites embracing new game.
Geocaching usually has been portrayed as someone with hiking boots and a walking staff gazing afar from a hilltop in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Not so anymore. Substantial numbers of those joining the sport are placing and hunting for caches in urban settings, and that includes Northern Virginia.
Editorial: Library Mission
Further cuts to library budget must be analyzed for impacts on needy families.
The current proposal to “streamline” services at Fairfax County Public Libraries comes on top of disproportionate, and some would say Draconian, cuts since 2009.
Dancers on Display At Great Falls Library
Artist Jill Banks hosts workshop at Great Falls Library.
The conference room at the Great Falls Library was transformed into a studio of sorts Saturday, Aug. 10. Artist Jill Banks hosted a painting demonstration featuring two local dancers, and welcomed visitors and other artists throughout the day.
Great Falls Exxon Station Remediation Plan Nears Completion
Department of Environmental Quality prepares to receive report on remediation of gasoline contaminants.
A corrective action plan (CAP) addressing the remediation of gasoline constituents in the ground underneath the property of the former Great Falls Exxon station is in the final stages of preparation.
Old Firehouse Teen Center Block Party Set for Aug. 24
McLean Teens Got Talent returns for third year, along with games, history exhibit.
The Old Firehouse Teen Center will host its annual Block Party Saturday, Aug. 24, welcoming teens and families to an afternoon of live performances, living history exhibits and other activities all through the center.
Tuesday, August 13
Editorial: On Federal Dollars in Virginia
State’s role as one of the biggest “takers.”
We received some emails and phone calls about the expansion of Medicaid in response to last week’s editorial.
Sports Roundup
Reston United 99 Blue, a U14 NCSL D5 team, is holding supplemental tryouts in August.
Week in McLean
The McLean Community Center (MCC) will open registration for its fall session classes, events and activities on Monday, Aug. 19, for the residents of Small District 1A-Dranesville who pay a special real estate tax surcharge to fund the Center.
Matthew Schmitz and Megan Taylor To Wed
Megan Taylor, daughter of Daniel and Anne Taylor of Springfield, is engaged to Matthew Schmitz, son of Daniel and Nancy Schmitz of Bristol, Ill.
Paul Frank Elected McLean Orchestra Board President
Paul A. Frank has been elected president of the Board of Trustees of McLean Orchestra.
Fairfax County Police Officers Win Gold in Darts at World Games
Fairfax County Police officers Mike Tucker and Mark Kidd won gold medals in the darts competition at the 2013 World Police & Fire Games in Belfast.
Guarding Against Identity Theft and Fraud
Police advise residents on how to protect themselves.
With identity theft and fraud being such a major concern these days, police investigator Tom Polhemus and Det. Mike Deane recently presented some ways local residents can protect themselves from becoming victims.
Monday, August 12
Brief: Giant Presents Check to McLean High
McLean Giant Food Store Manager Rick Makely (second from right) and Felis Andrade (third from right), director of marketing and external communications, Giant Food, present a check for $16,142.53 to McLean High School Principal Ellen Reilly (front row, fourth from right).
Great Theatre in Great Falls
Traveling Players Ensemble presents two plays at Madeira School.
The Great Falls-based Traveling Players Ensemble concluded two of its summer programs last weekend with two productions at the Madeira School. The nearly full auditorium was treated to Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” as well as an original work, “Ariadne’s Thread,” written by TPE visiting director, Judy W. White.
Thursday, August 8
Opinion: Issues That Matter
Mental health services discussion gives insight into real differences between candidates.
It came as somewhat of a relief to have the candidates for governor in Virginia, Ken Cuccinelli (R) and Terry McAuliffe (D), discuss an actual issue that matters to many Virginia families this week at a forum on mental health issues.
Will the Next Attorney General Defend Constitutional Ban on Gay Marriage?
Republican says he will defend amendment; Democrat is not so sure.
Virginia's next attorney general will have to stand in a courtroom and make a decision about whether or not the commonwealth's constitutional ban on marriage should be defended. Republican candidate Sen. Mark Obenshain (R-26) has been clear about his support for the amendment and his intention to provide a vigorous defense of marriage. Democratic candidate Sen. Mark Herring (D-33), on the other hand, has yet to take a position on whether or not he will defend the amendment.
Wednesday, August 7
The Median Has No Message
Political signs banished from roadsides as campaign season heats up.
Some people call them flowers of democracy. Others call them weeds of political pollution. Whatever one thinks of the campaign signs and placards that appear along the roads of Fairfax County, expect to see a lot fewer of them. Last month, county officials launched a new program in which nonviolent inmates at the county jail hit the streets four days a week to remove illegal signs. With apologies to Marshall McLuhan, the message is no longer in the median. Anger and resentment has been rising over the issue of roadside political signs for years, and campaigns frequently go to war with each other to see which side can plant or steal or deface the largest number of placards. Unlike Prince William County, which had an agreement with the Virginia Department of Transportation that allows the local government to collect the signs and fine violators, Fairfax was caught in a bind. Part of the Virginia code made it illegal for the county to remove the signs in Fairfax County until after an election.
If You Are What You Eat, Eat Well
Local nutritionist turns personal challenge into book and health and nutrition practice.
When Teri Cochrane’s son was 18 months old, he was diagnosed with asthma and placed on a variety of medications, including steroids. Less than two years later, doctors warned the Reston mother that he would have frequent seizures, would never have a normal childhood and would never grow taller than 5 feet 4 inches. When Cochrane’s daughter was born three years later, she also suffered from health problems, including chronic, severe abdominal pain.
2013 National Jamboree
A group of boy scouts from McLean and Fairfax Station had the privilege of attending the 2013 National Jamboree—held for the first time ever at the Summit Bechtel Reserve, or “The Summit” in Mount Hope, W. Va. Years of preparation went into making The Summit ready to host 40,000 scouts from all over the U.S. for 10 days. The Summit had a huge variety of activities for scouts to enjoy. These activities included mountain biking, scuba, BMX, rock climbing, shooting sports, and the most popular activity there—the zip-lines! At any given moment the zip-line had up to a 3-hour wait.
Tuesday, August 6
New County Police Chief Named
Supervisors appoint Lt. Col. Edwin C. Roessler Jr.
Effective Tuesday morning Aug. 6, a Centreville resident, Lt. Col. Edwin C. Roessler Jr., became Fairfax County’s new chief of police. He was appointed July 30 by the county Board of Supervisors.
Hometown Concert on the Green
Atlas Road Crew, with Great Falls Native Patrick Drohan, performs in weekly concert series.
The weekly Concerts on the Green at the Great Falls Village Centre always feature a regional band, but the show Sunday, Aug. 4 was as close to home as it gets. The band, Atlas Road Crew, a rock quintet from South Carolina, featured Patrick Drohan, a Great Falls native, on drums.
Tysons Interim Parking Agreement Approved
Located next to McLean Station, 711-space proposal is the first approved by county.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved the first agreement for an interim commuter parking lot for Silver Line users in Tysons Corner Tuesday, July 30.
Sullivan Named to Fairfax County Park Board
Rip Sullivan named by Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) to represent Dranesville district.
McLean resident Richard "Rip" Sullivan has been named the Dranesville representative for the park authority board, replacing Kevin Fay, who stepped down in July.
Monday, August 5
Apple Federal Credit Union Seeks Donations for Back-to-School Supply Drive
Apple Federal Credit Union kicked off its Collect for Kids Program in Northern Virginia.
Police Warn of Scam Involving Prepaid Money Cards
Police are investigating a scam in which a local couple was bilked out of thousands of dollars by an unknown suspect claiming to be affiliated with the Internal Revenue Service.
Brief: St. Marks Scouts Take 184-mile Ride
Fourteen Scouts from Troop 1978, sponsored by St. Marks Church, Vienna set out on a four-day bicycle tour of the C&O Canal from Cumberland, Md., to Washington, D.C. Friday, July 12.
Week in McLean
Around 3:47 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, a 56-year-old driver of a 2008 Dodge Charger was attempting to turn left onto Chain Bridge Road from Laughlin Avenue when he struck an 84-year-old pedestrian who was in the crosswalk.
MPAartfest Artists Meet in McLean Central Park
MPAartfest Director Amy Swaak conducted a walkthrough of McLean Central Park Wednesday, July 31 for artists selected to be in MPAartfest.
McLean Community Center to Hold Meeting, Hearing on Budget
The Governing Board of the McLean Community Center (MCC) will hold two meetings on its Proposed FY 2015 budget in September.
Used Book Sale to Be Held Sept. 20-22
The McLean Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will hold its 44th AAUW Annual Used Book Sale at the McLean Community Center, on Friday Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and, Sunday, Sept. 22 from noon to 4 p.m.
McLean Parks Provide Classic Summer Fun
McLean families usher in August outdoors.
As McLean transitions into summer’s latter half, residents relished August’s first weekend at the town’s various parks.
Friday, August 2
Candidates Agree on Amendment for Voting Rights, Disagree on Executive Order
Restoration of civil rights on the agenda for next governor.
Should nonviolent felons have their right to vote automatically restored? What exactly is a nonviolent felony? What kind of process can be considered automatic?
Thursday, August 1
Editorial: Enjoy Tax Holiday, Donate School Supplies
Good timing to help those in need.
It is debatable whether recurring tax holidays for different seasonal needs are good policy. But since this weekend is Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies and clothing, it makes sense to take advantage of the savings, and to spread the wealth around. The savings are more significant this year with the new sales tax increases in effect as of July 1.