Thursday, October 27
Fairfax County: Breaking Down the Bonds
County seeks authorization to finance transportation and parks projects, and human services and community development facilities
Fairfax County will try to make the most of voters’ time on election day Nov. 8, having them weigh in not only on the Presidential and Congressional elections, but also proposed Constitutional amendments, a referendum and bond questions.
Fairfax County: Garza FCPS Departure Impacts Stuart Name Change Working Group
Responding to a student-led group petitioning to change the name of J.E.B. Stuart High School in Falls Church, the Fairfax County Public Schools board voted over the summer to create a working group that would consider the community concerns and look into the logistics of a potential name change.
Wednesday, October 26
Leadership vs Rhetoric
Letter to the Editor
Congresswoman Comstock worked across party lines to pass a 5-year transportation bill—the first of its kind in 10 years—which brings $6.2 billion to the Commonwealth. She also supported bipartisan bills to replace No Child Left Behind, provide resources to combat the heroin epidemic, and bolster our national security.
Enhancing Learning for All Students
Letter to the Editor
Crucially, average 2016 FCPS scores flatline, edging up 1 point to 1668. Virginia public schools scores far lower average SATs than all other Virginia students. We should ask how to ensure accountably improved education for all students.
Experience to Get Things Done
Letter to the Editor
If not for Comstock and her allies in Congress, we would have lost the $150 million federal share of Metro funding. Federal employees would have been targeted for pay freezes, attrition, and unjust terminations.
Making Sandwiches for Martha’s Table
Churchill Road Elementary School continued its long-standing community service tradition by making sandwiches for Martha’s Table, a non-profit organization in Washington, D.C. that serves sandwiches to those in need.
Classified Advertising October 26, 2016
Read the latest ads here!
Tuesday, October 25
McLean High Named Crown Award Finalist
School receives one of the highest national honors in scholastic journalism.
McLean High School's "The Highlander" was named a national Crown Award finalist by the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) -- one of the highest honors in scholastic journalism across the country for overall excellence. "My students don’t put as much effort as they do into the newsmagazine just for the awards they might win—they do it because they genuinely care about creating a high quality publication that will inform and entertain their readers, said Benedict.
Library Jubilee Fundraiser in McLean
200 guests attend Dolley Madison Library's 'Squeeze'-themed party.
"We raise money to enhance the library beyond the taxpayer funded budget, which includes the library," said Brian Engler, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Fairfax Library Foundation.
Race Tightens in Heated 10th District
Comstock, Bennett crisscross Northern Virginia in all-out effort to reach key voters.
In the final, frantic days of the one of the most unpredictable and unprecedented elections in modern history, both candidates spent the blustery fall weekend crisscrossing the sprawling, diverse 10th district - meeting residents, rallying volunteers and campaigning hard for voters’ support.
Gary Ambrose Receives Hero's Award from Virginia Association of Community Service Boards
The Virginia Association of Community Service Boards (CSB) presented Fairfax County’s Gary Ambrose, chairman of the Fairfax-Falls Church CSB's Board of Directors, with the 2016 Gartlan Award. The VACSB award honors "heroes who give of their time and energy to steward long-reaching and timeless improvements in the public system and who share the leadership qualities exemplified by Senator Joseph Gartlan." Joseph V. Gartlan, Jr. (1925-2008), served in the Virginia Senate for 28 years.
Reject the Meals Tax
“A closer look at school spending shows the intentions of the School Board are to delve into more political correctness and social engineering.”
A “no” vote will send a message to the county Board of Supervisors that higher taxes should not be routine, and that county leaders must focus on better management, and more importantly, the School Board, more efficiency, and greater respect for taxpayers.
Bulova: Vote Yes
A legally binding commitment 70 percent would go to Fairfax County Public Schools.
I was elected chairman in 2009, just as the Great Recession settled over this country like a stubborn storm cloud. The market value of property in Fairfax County plummeted, resulting in historic reductions in both residential and commercial tax revenues. At the same time, more people than ever turned to the county for assistance. Former County Executive Tony Griffin’s prediction, in the throes of the Recession years, that “this will be our new normal” has proven prescient.
Six Area Students Named Regional Finalists in Siemens Competition
Six students in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) have been named regional finalists in the 2016 Siemens Competition in Math, Science, and Technology. The Siemens Competition is the nation’s premier research competition for high school students and is administered by Discovery Education.
Monday, October 24
The Arc of Northern Virginia Stages Motown Experience Gala
250 guests wine and dine to Motown hits while supporting people with disabilities.
About 250 guests attended the Arc of Northern Virginia's Motown Experience Gala on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, at the McLean Hilton in Tysons Corner. With the goal of raising between $115,000 to $200,000, the event included a silent auction, live auction and special outreach appeal.
The Arc of Northern Virginia Stages Motown Experience Gala
250 guests wine and dine to Motown hits while supporting people with disabilities.
About 250 guests attended the Arc of Northern Virginia's Motown Experience Gala on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, at the McLean Hilton in Tysons Corner. With the goal of raising between $115,000 to $200,000, the event included a silent auction, live auction and special outreach appeal.
Friday, October 21
Partnership to Prevent and End Homelessness Supports Meals Tax
After careful consideration, the Fairfax – Falls Church Partnership to Prevent and End Homelessness has decided to fully support the proposed 4 percent Fairfax County Meals Tax.
American Elections: French Perspective
I am a French student who chose to come to study close to Washington DC for what I thought would be one of the most interesting elections in the history of Uncle Sam’s country.
Column: No to the Meals Tax
A food tax is not a silver bullet.
I have been opposed to the meals tax from the start, but what has concerned me most over the last several months has been the tactics used to try to convince our residents to vote for it and the county’s failure to deal with its spending problems. I would like to offer some clarity on these points and why I am against the meals tax.
Vote Yes: Immigrant Families Rely on Schools for More Than Education
Fairfax County Public Schools are more than just a place to learn. Growing up in Burke, I saw firsthand how our schools created a sense of community and neighborhood camaraderie. Schools are where we could go to borrow a book, where we could watch and play sports, and where we could perform a play or listen to a concert.
Column: Yes to the Meals Tax
Reduces dependence on property tax.
As a businessman here in Fairfax and a former member of the Fairfax County School Board, I write on behalf of a coalition of thousands of homeowners, parents, teachers, firefighters, police, friends and users of our libraries and our parks and recreation facilities, and those who belong to churches and non-profit organizations working to ensure that Fairfax County also protects those in need [www.yesmealstax.org].
Letter: Supporting Meals Tax
Letter to the Editor
I’m writing to encourage Fairfax County voters to support the county meals tax referendum on the ballot in November.
Letter: Meals Tax: A Better Option
Letter to the Editor
After reviewing Fairfax County’s proposed 4-percent meals tax, the Class Size Counts (CSC) board voted to support the Nov. 8 referendum because it decided that it would be better to raise money for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) through a tax on prepared foods rather than through additional increases to County property taxes.
Advice from the Pros
Local private school admissions directors share wisdom they’d offer to their own children.
From interviews to essays to standardized tests to open houses, the season for submitting independent school applications is underway. For families vying for a spot at the area’s most elite schools, the process can be fraught with anxiety, stress and confusion as parents and students wade through the myriad academic options in the Washington, D.C., region.
Thursday, October 20
Fairfax County: Room to Improve for Fairfax County Public Schools on SAT
Scores above Virginia, national Levels, but achievement gap remains
On average, Fairfax County Public High Schools performed better on the SAT college placement exam in 2016 than the Commonwealth of Virginia overall average.
Wednesday, October 19
BASIS Independent McLean Hosts Seminar - Demystifying Global Education Rankings
The seminar will feature a conversation on the role of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) in global benchmarking and their influence on educational excellence across the world. RSVP is required.
McLean: BASIS Independent Opens Tysons Corner’s First Prek-12 School
More than 40 teachers and nearly 300 DC-area students were welcomed by Sean Aiken, head of school of BASIS Independent McLean, who opened the doors to Tysons Corner’s first prek-12 school.
McLean: New Officers Inducted at Churchill Road
On Thursday, Oct. 6, Churchill Road Elementary School held the induction ceremony for its newly elected Student Council Association (SCA) officers for 2016-2017: President – Kayla Moore; Vice President – Lauren Kim; Secretary – Jordan Rupli; Historian – Olivia Zhang; Treasurer – Logan Jones; and Sergeant At Arms – Joe Hoeymans. Caroline Brugge, a Langley High School senior, and Student Government Association Vice President, spoke to the Churchill Road student body, encouraging students not to be afraid to keep trying things until they found their passion. The students enjoyed Brugge’s engaging speech.
McLean: Golden Gala Raises $106,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Potomac School juniors Amelia Mazloom and Parker Gioia together with other committee members of the Inaugural St. Jude Parent/Teen Golden Gala from high schools across the DC, Maryland and Virginia area, raised $106,000 to benefit the children of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The amount raised more than doubled committee’s goal of $50,000. The Gala took place at the French Embassy on Sept.17 with a crowd of more than 250 parents and teens.
McLean Hotel Executive Honored by National Kidney Foundation
At the 67th annual Board of Directors meeting held in St. Louis, Mo. the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) bestowed its highest honor to long-standing volunteer, W. Edward Walter of McLean, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Host Hotels & Resorts. Walter received the Martin Wagner Award from the foundation for his many years of service both as a local and national board member.
McLean Letter: A Leader and a Doer
Letter to the Editor
I know I am not alone in my frustration with Congress’ seeming inability to get things done. We have to do our part to make sure this paralysis doesn’t continue.
McLean Letter: Leadership on Transportation
Letter to the Editor
Congresswoman Barbara Comstock has been working tirelessly to focus on one of region's biggest priorities: transportation. Her five years of experience in the Virginia House of Delegates allowed her to hit the ground running on her first day in Congress. And since being elected to Congress, she has helped secure additional funding for our roads and infrastructure.
McLean Letter: Focus on Economy and National Security
Letter to the Editor
I am writing to express my support, and that of my family, for Congresswoman Barbara Comstock.
McLean Letter: Comstock’s Record of Accomplishments
Letter to the Editor
Other than sending a massive amount of attack mailers, I haven’t heard anything from LuAnn Bennett about her accomplishments or what she might do or why she’s even running for the 10th Congressional seat against our proven incumbent, Barbara Comstock.
McLean Letter: Committed to Keeping Us Safe
Letter to the Editor
As a long time Northern Virginia resident, and parent, I am very concerned about national and community safety and security.
McLean Letter: Committed to Religious Freedom
Letter to the Editor
For the last 30 years of my activism, I have worked to promote political engagement among Arab Americans in the Greater Washington D.C. area. I am working to unite all communities and political participation is a key part of that.
McLean Letter: ‘Gov. McAuliffe, Tear Down This Wall!’
Letter to the Editor
Gov. Terry McAuliffe has built a wall - a virtual wall - between citizens and the voter registration records they are permitted to inspect. Under federal law, the public has a right to inspect records relating to "ensuring the accuracy and currency of official lists of eligible voters.”
McLean Community Center Renovation to Begin Begin in April 2017
In April 2017, work to renovate the McLean Community Center’s (MCC) Ingleside Avenue facility is scheduled to begin. To ensure the Center’s programs and services will continue uninterrupted, MCC Executive Director George Sachs has worked with Fairfax County’s Facilities Management Department to find and secure rental properties for a 22-month period, beginning as early as March 2017.
Planning Ahead: Expansion of Langley Fork
In April, the Board of Supervisors authorized planning staff to research the Mackall-Hall house and Turkey HIll Road for a possible expansion of the Langley Fork Historic Overlay District.
McLean Snapshot: Crepe Myrtles and Recyling Efforts Bloom at Spring Hill Elementary
Over the summer months, Spring Hill Elementary School and grounds saw a transformation.
‘Under the Gun’ Documentary Screening, Panel Discussion in McLean
The League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area (LWVFA) will sponsor an "Under the Gun" Screening and Expert Panel on Thursday, Oct. 27, 7-9 p.m. in the large theatre inside McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean.
McLean: Marshall Academy, GMU to Host Cybersecurity Youth Conference
In recognition of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Marshall Academy—a Governor’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) Academy—and George Mason University (GMU) will host the first Cybersecurity Youth Conference on Saturday, Oct. 29, at GMU’s Fairfax campus.
McLean, Great Falls Letter: Korean American Community Supports Comstock
Letter to the Editor
Congresswoman Barbara Comstock continues to earn the support of Northern Virginia’s Korean American community by consistently championing issues important to us.
Langley Marching Saxons Win US Bands Marine Corps Invitational
Langley Marching Saxons won first place at the US Bands Marine Corps Invitational in Annapolis, Md. on Oct. 1. The band had a great performance in its only third competition in the history of the Langley High marching band.
Capital Bikeshare to Launch in Tysons, Reston
On Friday, Oct. 21, 2016, Fairfax County elected officials, community partners and county staff will host a two-part ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the launch of Capital Bikeshare in Fairfax County.
Friday, October 14
Free Halloween Car Rides Offered in Area
As a means of making the Washington-metropolitan area’s roadways a little less frightening this Halloween, free cab rides will be offered to would-be drunk drivers throughout the Washington-metropolitan area on the evening of Saturday, Oct. 29.
Oak Hill Remodeled Home Tour Set for Nov. 5
Gourmet kitchen, spa master bath among spotlight features in makeover.
A circa 1980's center hall Colonial enhanced by a gourmet kitchen, a spacious spa bath and a lower-level guest suite will be featured in a “Remodeled Home Tour” sponsored by Sun Design Remodeling on Saturday, Nov. 5.
Showcase Home Offers Design Inspiration
DC Design House was transformed by local designers to raise money for charity.
Those in search of interior design ideas now have a source of new inspirations, at least temporarily. The 2016 DC Design House is now open to the public and runs through Oct. 30.
McLean Woman’s Club Donates $4,500 to Local Nonprofits
At its meeting on Oct. 4, the Woman’s Club of McLean donated $2,000 to Share Inc., $1,000 to Alternative House and $1,500 to Claude Moore Colonial Farm, three nonprofits in McLean. The club’s active fundraising programs have made possible the support of these and other local organizations as well as of scholarships and education. The club’s annual Holiday Homes Tour, in December, provides a major source of such funding.
McLean Woman’s Club Gearing Up for 50th Annual Holiday Homes Tour
With the final selection of the tour homes and the printing of the tour tickets, the Woman’s Club of McLean is almost ready for its 50th annual Holiday Homes Tour in December.
McLean Letter: What’s for Dinner?
Letter to the Editor
I keep hearing about how unemployment numbers are down, but I also hear that, inexplicably, local, state and federal budgets are dismal.
McLean Letter: Tysons Needs Schools Too
Letter to the Editor
As it is widely known, Spring Hill Elementary is bursting at the seams, and is officially over capacity. We currently have around 1,000 students.
The Trump Question? Asked and Answered
Comstock and Bennett trade jabs during first debate in race for 10th Congressional seat.
At the first of two 10th Congressional District debates on Thursday, Oct. 6, Democratic challenger LuAnn Bennett was not shy about hanging the Trump albatross around the neck of freshman Republican U.S. Rep. Barbara Comstock.
McLean, Vienna: Marshall High to Present ‘The Sea Cook: A Story for Girls’
What happens when you put together a female cast of pirates, an innovative set design, and the creative writing of a talented former student? You get “The Sea Cook: A Story for Girls,” a feminist revision of the classic story “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson.
McLean Home Sales: September, 2016
In September, 2016, 89 homes sold between $3,200,000-$185,000 in the McLean and Falls Church area.
McLean Home Sales: September, 2016
Fairfax County: Lockard Named Interim Superintendent
Dr. Steven Lockard will take over for Dr. Karen Garza as Fairfax County Schools superintendent for the interim period while the School Board searches for her replacement.
Wednesday, October 12
Classified Advertising October 12, 2016
Read the latest ads here!
Friday, October 7
From the Beginning to the End
982 participants signed up for 2016 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics.
The Northern Virginia Senior Olympics (NVSO) opened Sept. 10 and ran through Sept. 21 with another record registration of 918 participants.
Park Authority Offers 50+ Web Portal
The Fairfax County Park Authority has launched a website specifically for residents age 50 or older.
Seminars on Downsizing
The Retiree Real Estate Education Association announces free public service seminars for October on Decluttering, Aging in Place, and Downsizing, given at McLean, Falls Church, and Marshall High schools. These are part of a series of eight free seminars on real estate issues unique to retirees.
Debating Pro & Con on Meals Tax
League of Women Voters hosts forum on Meals Tax issue.
The League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area sponsored a debate-style panel discussion on the Meals Tax issue which will go before county voters in the Nov. 8 General Election.
Fall Driving: Be Alert for Deer
Autumn is approaching and white-tailed deer will be on the move. Fall is the breeding season for deer.
Bike Sharing Stations Open up Transportation Options
Capital Bikeshare expands to Reston, Tysons area.
Near the corner of Union Street and Prince Street in Old Town, Alexandria, there is a row of red Capital Bikeshare bikes for commuters, tourists and locals to rent, to offer biking as a transportation option without the hassle of congestion or parking that plagues the area.
Interfaith Partners for Justice Address Needs of Returning Citizens
Interfaith Partners for Justice (IPJ), a cooperative effort of members of ten Northern Virginia faith communities, invites returning citizens (ex-offenders), people of faith and justice advocates to come together for a come-when-you-can afternoon of opportunities for voter registration and photo IDs, as well as a series of workshops, advocacy tables and conversations on the needs of returning citizens (often less hopefully and permanently called “ex-offenders”) on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016, 2 to 5 p.m. at Lake Anne Community Center, 1609 A Washington Plaza in Reston.
Thursday, October 6
Editorial: Voting Never Mattered More
Consider voting absentee in person since more than 500,000 other voters are likely to turnout on Election Day.
With more than 655,000 active voters in Fairfax County, and as many as 500,000 voters turning out on Election Day, it’s a good time to consider voting early, and preparing for a longer-than-usual process if voting on Election Day.
Fairfax County: Meals Tax Statement Debated During Joint Budget Meeting
Text prepared by Board of Supervisors and FCPS board chairs.
There continues to be division, at least among several members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and School Board, on whether voters should approve a referendum allowing the government to levy up to a four percent additional tax on prepared foods and beverages at restaurants, as well as ready-to-eat foods from grocery and convenience stores.
Senior Living: Planning for Multigenerational Living
Making room for older family members.
Planning for multigenerational living has been on the rise in recent years. With life expectancies increasing and early baby boomers entering their golden years, this trend is expected to continue. As with any remodeling project, there are a number of factors to consider when planning a renovation for a growing household.
Senior Living: Regaining Mobility
Local orthopedic surgeons offer keys for successful joint replacement surgery.
Tired of the limited mobility and pain that have thwarted her love of foreign travel and fall hiking, Lynda S. Johnson, 72, scheduled a knee replacement surgery for later this month. She chose a doctor, found a pet sitter to watch her Cairn terrier, and enlisted her sister to live with her while she recovers. “I had been debating for months about whether to have it,” she said. “I was in so much pain, though, that I don’t really think I have anything to lose.”
Medicare Open Enrollment Nears
Tips to help Medicare beneficiaries get ready.
Medicare beneficiaries preparing for open enrollment this month may want to consider their current health needs and the many preventive services covered by Medicare.
Senior Living: Life at Vinson Hall — Living the Difference
Mary DeMaris is headed down on the elevator at Vinson Hall with her black case of art supplies, an artist headed to a still life class out of the building. “There is a club here for everything — poetry, art, choral group, photography, book, gardening,” she said.
Wednesday, October 5
Vienna, McLean, Great Falls: Electric Bike Expo at Tysons Corner Center Offers Safety Presentation
The national traveling experiential demo tour for electric pedal assist Bikes is coming to the Tysons Corner Center next weekend and will offer attendees an opportunity to test ride more than 100 different electric bikes models from a dozen leading brands.
McLean, Great Falls Real Estate: Enjoy ‘Best of Times’ in Decade
The McLean and Great Falls real estate market has experienced a robust number of sales in the 1st three quarters of 2016. The number of transactions is up 9 percent over 2015 same time frame.
McLean, Great Falls Letter: Voting for National Security
Letter to the Editor
As a West Point graduate, I learned long ago that strength is a key deterrent to any potential enemy. Given McLean's proximity to Washington and remembering very well the chaos of 9/11, national security is something that is always in the forefront of my mind. Terrorists and radical regimes seemingly want nothing more than to destroy our way of life, and Washington is a prime target for terrorists and state actors alike.
McLean, Great Falls Letter: Standing Up for Seniors
Letter to the Editor
Barbara Comstock has a proven record of fighting for the 10th District’s senior citizens and deserves the opportunity to keep working for us in Congress. Like she does on all issues, Barbara has set aside partisanship in favor of producing results. Her record speaks for itself.
McLean, Great Falls: Leading Voice Against Human Trafficking
Letter to the Editor
The horrors of human trafficking are an unfortunate reality for our community. Fortunately, we have a Congresswoman who is leading on this important issue. Barbara Comstock has fought against human trafficking since her time in the state legislature and will continue to do so as our representative in Congress.
McLean, Great Falls Letter: Championing Student Debt Relief
Letter to the Editor
Barbara Comstock has made student debt relief a major priority during her first term in Congress, and that’s why she’s earned my vote for re-election in November.
McLean: Workshop on ‘Aging in Place’
Aging in Place: Modifying Your Home to Fit Your Changing Lifestyle workshop will be held on Saturday, Oct. 8, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave. McLean. As your lifestyle changes in your later years, living in your own home, with accustomed comforts, supports your emotional well-being. Home modifications, even small ones, can enhance your comfort and safety to make a big difference. Attend this workshop to find out how simple changes to your home can create an environment where everyone is welcome and can flourish. Advance registration is required. Light refreshments will be served. Cost: Free. Call AARP at 1-877-926-8300 or http://states.aarp.org/novaevents.
McLean: Book Launch Party at Star Nut Gourmet
McLean's Karen Briscoe celebrates new book, Real Estate Success in 5 Minutes a Day.
Karen Briscoe, 57, a Realtor with the Huckaby Briscoe Conroy Group (HBC) with Keller Williams on Elm Street in McLean, celebrated her book launch party on Thursday, Sept. 29 at the Star Nut Gourmet in McLean. Her book called Real Estate Success in 5 Minutes a Day - Secrets of a Top Agent Revealed is a daily reader with business or life principles told in a story format.
McLean: MPAartfest Draws 51 Artists, 4,000 Visitors
Event held Sunday, Oct. 2 at McLean Central Park in McLean.
Some 51 artists displayed their artwork at the 10th annual MPAartfest held Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, at the McLean Central Park. After a little rain in the morning, the sun came out and so did a crowd of around 4,000 people.
McLean: Used Books Sale – Best Ever
McLean Association of University Women (AAUW) wishes to thank all those who have supported the 47th Used Book Sale as well as the staff at McLean Community Center, the site of the sale and the staff of Sun Trust Bank East in Vienna where the collections are held every summer.
Potomac School Welcomes New Assistant Head of School, Director of Admission and Financial Aid
Timothy Jaeger has joined The Potomac School as assistant head of school. He is also serving as interim head of Potomac’s Upper School for the 2016-17 school year.