Wednesday, July 30
Foreign Nationals Immersed in Local Lifeguarding
For some, it starts out on two wheels.
Every day, Vasyl Smolii uses two different routes when he bikes to and from work at the Belle View pool in Alexandria. Coming down the hill on Belle View Boulevard is an easy ride in the morning but going back up in the evening is not as easy on the bicycle Smolii rents from his sponsor High Sierra Pools, an Arlington-based pool management company. "I must buy this bike for the summer," said 19-year-old Smolii from Ukraine.
Serving Families For 90 Years
Pushing the boundaries has led to success, says Northern Virginia Family Services CEO.
An organization does not thrive for 90 years by chance. Northern Virginia Family Services, a county institution, has impacted families throughout the region for nearly a century with no sign of slowing down.
Column: “CanSir”
When it comes to being a cancer patient, even more so a multi-year cancer survivor, I have always erred on the side of caution. And by caution, I mean being respectful to the disease, courteous of its comings and goings, mindful of its potential damage and afraid of its intangibles. And by intangibles, I mean the unexplained and the inexplicable, and most fearfully, its power and unpredictability. Therefore, my behavior toward it has been intended to be as polite as possible; never to be perceived – in any way imaginable – as arrogant, presumptuous, in control, all-knowing and most especially, victorious.
Editorial: Finally, Marriage Rights Protected in Virginia
On July 28, 2014, in affirming that Virginia’s ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, Circuit Judge Henry F. Floyd writes: “We recognize that same-sex marriage makes some people deeply uncomfortable. However, inertia and apprehension are not legitimate bases for denying same-sex couples due process and equal protection of the laws.
McLean Graduate Sullivan to Pitch for Virginia Tech
Q&A: Former Highlander hurler enjoys Zac Brown Band.
McLean graduate Joey Sullivan will pitch for Virginia Tech.
Silver Line Officially Opens
Weihle-Reston East to Largo Town Center.
After the speeches, after the ribbon-cutting, there was a mad rush to board the first publicly open rail cars that rolled on the Silver Line heading towards Tysons Corner.
Tysons Welcomes Metrorail
Arrival of Silver Line to Tysons set to encourage residential development.
Five Silver Line Metro stations located in Reston and Tysons Corner opened to the public on Saturday, July 26.
First Train Arrives to McLean
Grand opening of the new metro line welcomed by residents.
It was 12:23 p.m. Saturday, July 26 when for the first time, a full Silver Line metro train zoomed from Reston, through Tysons Corner and into the new McLean metro station.
Tysons Corner Center Plaza Opens
Local artwork, children’s play space, free movies.
Confetti cannons, people blowing bubbles, acrobats inside of balloons and many more eye catching celebratory notes were a part of the Tysons Corner Center Plaza opening on July 24.
Letter: Government In Bedrooms
We need Supervisor John Foust to represent us in Congress, a public servant who listens to his constituents and fights for their causes.
Sixth-graders Leave the Gift for School
On Friday, June 20, the sixth-grade graduation class of Chesterbrook Elementary School in McLean presented an historic plaque and a planted dogwood tree to their school.
Letter: Checking the Letters
I have read both letters to the editor in the July 16, 2014, McLean edition, in which Anne C. Gruner and Macy Anderson, as residents of McLean, enthusiastically endorse Barbara Comstock for Congress.
Letter: A Different Picture
A recent letter to the editor about Delegate Barbara Comstock claims that she’s focused on job creation and helping struggling college students.
Governor's Mansion, Confidential
Defense team in corruption case to detail crumbling McDonnell marriage.
When he takes the stand in his own defense, former Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell will read jurors an email that he wrote to his wife as their marriage was said to be crumbling.
Thursday, July 24
Langley Grad Collier to Play Basketball at Denison University
Q&A: Collier enjoys listening to Nas, watching Will Ferrell movies.
Langley grad Garrett Collier will play basketball at Denison University.
Pet Connection July 2014
Our readers submitted photos of their adorable pets.
Frodo and Sam have become best friends – sort of. My husband and I adopted Frodo from Home Alone Cat Rescue several years ago. He is part Maine Coon and part American Bobtail, with a funny short tail. He may have been mistreated by a previous owner because he is afraid of everything, especially ceiling fans. He quickly became comfortable in our home as an “only cat.”
Week in McLean
Weekly happenings in McLean
Week in McLean
Weekly happenings in McLean
Wednesday, July 23
Across Northern Virginia, Men Pull Larger Paychecks than Women
Trend is more prominent in wealthier areas.
When Lola Arce de Quintela first moved to Oakton 20 years ago, she noticed something about the way men and women arranged their professional careers around their family lives in Northern Virginia. Men took high-powered jobs with large paychecks, while women often dropped out of the workforce to take care of growing families. If women had full-time jobs, she says, they would often select positions that were not as demanding so they could focus their time and attention on their children while husbands and fathers pulled in six-figure salaries.
Not The Typical Guard Dog
Buffy, a Lhasa Apso and Miniature Poodle mixed dog, has been a McLean resident for over 13 years.
In many cases, dogs are supposed to be great companions for their owners, which occasionally means holding down the fort when master is away, or being a guard dog.
The Snake of Kings
The King Family of six houses Zed, a Royal Python of nearly three feet in length.
Pythons have reputations of being gigantic, ferocious, monstrous snakes with large appetites.
One of the Cutest Pets in McLean
Anisa Ardeishar, 11, is the proud owner of an all-black Netherland Dwarf bunny.
When it comes to fluffy, friendly, and obedient pets that would be perfect for children, there is nothing better than a bunny rabbit.
It’s All in the Genes
Marlene and Alex Bocast are the happy masters of Ivy, a dog with a story.
Have you ever encountered a dog that was one-quarter Landseer Newfoundland, one-quarter Chinese Shar Pei, and 50 percent undetermined?
Foust, Comstock Battle Women’s Issues
Hot button topic is discussed in wake of Hobby Lobby decision.
One of the hotbed issues of the last month was triggered when the Supreme Court decided that for-profit corporations can be exempt from a law if the owner objects for religious reasons. The reason? Contraceptives. Women’s health issues are among the issues that Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville) and Del. Barbara Comstock (R-34) – candidates for 10th District Congressional seat -- butt heads on.
Letter: Following the Rule of Honor
Letter to the Editor
The recent story in McLean Connection about Governor Terry McAuliffe signing special legislation that would focus on helping military personnel and their families underscored the importance of what these fine Americans do for our country. A grateful nation and state should acknowledge their sacrifice by helping them when possible.
1st Stage Appoints Alex Levy as Artistic/Managing Director
1st Stage, Tysons’ award-winning professional theater, has announced the appointment of Alex Levy as its Artistic/Managing Director effective Sept. 1.
Trees for McLean Neighborhoods
McLean Community Foundation supports tree program.
The McLean Neighborhood Tree Program, a new initiative of MTF, is funded in part by the McLean Community Foundation and encourages homeowners to become actively engaged in the selection, planting, and care of their trees.
Puppies Destined for Important Work
Bred, donated and/or rescued for assistance dog training by paws4people.org, these "baby pictures" will be shared with the children and veterans matched with each dog.
Editorial: Tragic Consequences
Money lost by refusal to expand health coverage, but also life, health and livelihood.
The Virginia General Assembly’s refusal to expand Medicaid, extending health coverage to as many as 400,000 Virginians has resulted in the loss of about $1 billion in direct payments. But that understates the loss, failing to calculate the cost of the lost health of thousands of Virginians.
Thursday, July 17
McLean Home Sales: June, 2014
In June 2014, 110 homes sold between $6,500,000-$139,000 in the McLean and Falls Church area.
McLean Home Sales: June, 2014
Letter: ‘Go To’ Delegate for Congress
To the Editor
It’s been sad to see that in the congressional race for the 10th District, the only thing the Democrats have done is go on attack instead of offer constructive solutions. Even NPR noticed the relentlessly negative tone of Supervisor John Foust’s campaign rhetoric saying they are using “old-fashioned fear mongering” and noting that he was mouthing the Democrat Congressional Campaign Committee’s talking points.
Letter: A Job-creation Candidate
To the Editor
I have known Delegate Barbara Comstock, candidate for Congress from Virginia’s 10th District, for over a year now. She has always impressed me as a bright, serious and pragmatic candidate who was focused on addressing the important issues affecting our community rather than just giving speeches, repeating talking points or pandering to specific groups.
Wednesday, July 16
Langley Grad Casso to Play Football at Catholic University of America
Q&A: Standout quarterback enjoys fishing, IN-N-OUT Burger.
Langley graduate Nick Casso will play quarterback at Catholic University of America.
Financial Education for College Students
Local experts offer budget tips to keep students out of debt.
As the summer wanes, many recent high school graduates are preparing to head to college. For those who are living away from home for the first time, this means newfound independence. But that freedom brings responsibility — especially when it comes to money.
Numbers Indicate Stable Market
June home listings climb, with slight dip in sales; average, median prices continue to inch up.
The Northern Virginia market recorded increased inventories, providing buyers with more choices. Nonetheless, buyers are challenged by affordability and accessing credit.
Dental Associates to Support Give Kids The World
Dental Associates of Northern Virginia, with six locations in Northern Virginia, has partnered with Give Kids The World, and named their joint initiative “Smiles for Hope.” Dental Associates of Northern Virginia will be fundraising for Give Kids The World throughout the year in support of its “Smiles for Hope” initiative.
Between Halves
At present, July 12th, I’m halfway, approximately, between my last CT Scan which showed a previously unseen silver-dollar sized growth in my lower left lung and my next CT Scan scheduled for August 6th, one month earlier than my usual three-month interval in order to make an evaluation sooner rather than later; to determine if this is new growth or nothing more than old growth that is now visible due to the combination of shrinking tumors and dissipating fluid opening up the viewing area, so to speak. Apparently, the chemotherapy drug, Alimta, with which I’ve been infused every three weeks since last September appears to be doing its hoped-for job: shrinkage.
Eight FCPS Students Win College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships
Eight Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) graduates from the class of 2014 have been named winners of college-sponsored scholarships by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Recipients of college-sponsored scholarships from the NMSC, with their probable career fields in parentheses, are:
Inova Fairfax Hospital: #1 in D.C. Metro Area
For the third year in a row, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus has been ranked as the #1 Hospital in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area by U.S. News & World Report. Inova Fairfax also jumped in rankings to #2 in the state, and earned national recognition as #33 in the country in Gynecology and #42 in Neonatology. The annual U.S. News Best Hospitals rankings, now in their 25th year, recognize hospitals that excel in treating the most challenging patients. “Three years in a row as #1 is an outstanding accomplishment and we are proud of our hospital’s dedicated physicians and staff who provide the best of care to our patients every day. I’d like to congratulate our staff, particularly within Inova Women’s and Children’s for their impressive and well-deserved national rankings,” said Patrick Christiansen, PhD, chief executive officer, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus.
Editorial: Save a Little, Help Others Prepare for School
Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies is a good reminder to donate supplies and dollars for children who need help arriving at school prepared.
Virginia’s tax holiday on school supplies and clothing is Aug. 1-3, and it makes sense to take advantage of the savings, and to spread the wealth around.
Arielle Mewou Receives Regirer Nurse Scholarship
Mewou is a certified nursing assistant at Vinson Hall Retirement Community.
Students Keep Bows Moving
Summer Strings Camp preserves students’ musical skills.
This is the 26th year of the camp, which is and has been attended by students from different Fairfax County elementary schools.
School Board Decreases Suspension Time
Student Rights and Responsibilities revised.
The school board voted unanimously at the end of June to change the discipline handbook, which will now focus on in school suspensions to preserve time in school.
Wednesday, July 9
Classified Advertising July 9, 2014
Read the lastest ads here!
New Tysons Transportation Management Named
Tysons Partnership hopes to reduce traffic.
The number of single occupancy vehicles in Tysons Corner will be reduced as more people take the bus, metro or carpool to work.
McLean Chef Hosts ‘American Grilled’
David Guas takes on television.
On Wednesday, July 2, McLean’s own Chef David Guas took on television as host and co-judge of the Travel Channel’s new show “American Grilled,” in which he travels around the country hosting grilling competitions every Wednesday at 9 p.m.
Summer on the Tennis Court
Chesterbrook Junior Tennis Team hosts camp and matches throughout Summer 2014.
Open to any children ages 9 through high school, this summer camp is the perfect way for a child to have fun while enjoying the sport they love.
Snap, Crackle and Pop at Langley High
Thousands view fireworks at high school.
The first crackle in the night sky always has everyone running to their seats to get the best view of the fireworks on Independence Day.
A New Work Order
Local designers help create organized and stylish home offices.
Whether it’s a nook, in the kitchen or a designated room, a home office is the place were ideas come to life. Local designers dish about the secrets to creating a workspace that is organized and functional yet stylish. “You’re going to spend a lot of time in it so aesthetics do matter,” said Patricia Tetro of BOWA in McLean.
Shaping New Tysons
MCA discusses Tysons’ past, present and future.
As the Silver Line Metro stations prepare to open this month, McLean Citizens Association is educating its members about the county’s comprehensive plan for Tysons.
America Eats Tavern Opens at Tysons
American cuisine and culture on display at the Ritz-Carlton.
America Eats Tavern (AET), the new restaurant helmed by Spanish-born and award-winning celebrity chef José Andrés and business partner Rob Wilder, opened in the Tysons Corner Ritz-Carlton last month.
You Can Run, But You Can’t Win?
Fairfax County fires attorney for winning city council seat.
Like many lifelong City of Fairfax residents, Nancy Fry Loftus is proud of her hometown’s character and charm — a Norman Rockwell postcard of small-town life in the heart of an increasingly urban, diverse and bustling region.
Climate Change Could Affect Your Drinking Water
Residents could see—and smell—a very different Potomac River by 2040.
Drinking cups of clear tap water could be a luxury we are less likely to take for granted in the near future as climate-change culprits affect our waterways—and our water bills.
Not That I’ll Ever Be Out, But…
“Just when I thought I was out…they pull me back in.” Although this quote is from Michael Corleone from “The Godfather: Part III,” it very much characterizes my daily struggle being a terminal cancer patient; non small cell lung cancer, NSCLC, is like that, almost always. Even though I don’t want to think about the fact that I have cancer, or not let it affect my judgment on life – or perspective; or let it impede my path to a happier existence, more often than not, it does.
Editorial: Hurray for Full Day Mondays
Hoping that later start times for high schoolers follows quickly.
For decades, Fairfax County schools have sent elementary school students home after half a day on Mondays. This was never a good idea, and it has been more damaging to family schedules and student learning with the increase over the years of two-income households and greater economic diversity.
Tuesday, July 8
World Cup Fever
Area soccer coaches, players share 2014 World Cup viewing experiences.
Area soccer players and coaches have followed the 2014 World Cup closely.
Commentary: County Falling Behind on Its Housing Goals
On June 9, the Residential Studio Committee of the Fairfax County Planning Commission voted to recommend that the review of the Zoning Ordinance Amendment for Residential Studio Units be tabled. This recommendation will be voted on by the full Planning Commission at its July 24 meeting and it is almost certain that it will be adopted. After months of committee hearings and community meetings throughout the county, the RSU amendment will be quietly put to rest.
Commentary: Area Nonprofit Guides Entrepreneurs to Start-Up Success
For many working poor, the challenges of conquering the barriers to education, childcare and transportation are too great to overcome. Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS), the nonprofit known for providing food and shelter, health and dental access, and Head Start programs for more than 36,000 local residents a year, also is working to alleviate poverty with its innovative entrepreneurship program.
Wednesday, July 2
July 4th Festivities in Fairfax County
A list of celebratory events taking place on July 4th.
A list of parades, fireworks and family-friendly events taking place this Friday, July 4.
Area Gears Up for Rail Opening
Silver Line starts running on July 26.
On July 26, the expectations and hopes of commuters in Tysons and Reston will either be met or dashed when the gates to the Silver Line Metro stations are opened at noon.
Letter: Campaign Experience
I recently had the opportunity to volunteer on the John Foust for Congress Campaign – a small office with a small army of professionals, interns, and volunteers – and I’m pleased to say that it was an extremely positive experience.
Tour de Tysons Attracts Hundreds
427 cyclists swarm Tysons.
The 2nd Annual Tour de Tysons bicycle races attracted a record 427 cyclists who competed in 9 separate races.
Winning the Spirit Award
Langley Crew honors graduating senior Tyler Seckar.
Tyler Seckar, Langley rower and graduating senior, has won the Hillary J. Fein Spirit Award for the “athlete who best embodies the true spirit and passion for Crew.”
Create Day Showcase at Cooper Middle
Parents, teachers, students, and community members observed hundreds of projects that Cooper students created throughout the year exhibited at the school’s Create day showcase.
Performing in a Buskapade
Larry Rice teaches fiddle/violin, guitar, mandolin, banjo, electric bass, and ukulele at his studio in Falls Church City.
Herrick and Conrad Named ‘Friends in Deed’
Conrad and Herrick are the 2lst and 22nd persons to receive this recognition “with gratitude for outstanding leadership and support of the McLean Community Center.”
Full-Day Mondays Start in September
Teachers promised planning time.
Full-day Mondays for all. After 40 years, Fairfax County Public Schools will give all elementary students "full Mondays" for more learning time — and more recess. During a School Board meeting Thursday, June 26, Superintendent Karen Garza said Mondays were cut in half for elementary students since 1972. "While not everyone tonight will embrace the change, we will engage the stakeholders," she told the board.
'Guys and Dolls’ Hitting the Alden Stage
McLean Community Players to present the musical theater classic.
"Guys and Dolls" producer Terry Yates added: "You will be humming when you leave the theater after the show, the songs are so great." So, get ready to have "Guys and Dolls" ring your bell.
Climate Change Could Affect Drinking Water
Residents could see — and smell — a very different Potomac River by 2040.
Drinking cups of clear tap water could be a luxury people are less likely to take for granted in the near future as climate-change culprits affect the waterways — and water bills.
Locker Cleanout Day Longfellow Middle
Longfellow Middle School conducted its annual locker cleanout day on Tuesday, June 24.
Look Out Below
I think I know what a rampaging bull feels like; and I don’t mean one on Wall Street, either. I mean one in the figurative sense: when one has a need, an overwhelming, unstoppable-type urge, to scratch that itch, to gratify that which has been delayed. What am I talking about? (You sound like my wife, Dina.) I am talking about food. More specifically, I am talking about a side effect I’ve been experiencing of late from the chemotherapy drug Alimta, with which I’ve been infused every three weeks since late September, 2013 (successfully I may add, given the shrinkage noted in my most recent CT Scan).