Stories for July 2013

Stories for July 2013

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Wednesday, July 31

“Chemo-Nosabe”

Although I’ve not seen the current “The Lone Ranger” theatrical release, I am of a certain age and generation who grew up watching – on black and white television with no remote control and only three watchable channels – the original “The Lone Ranger” (starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels), along with other weekday-afternoon and Saturday-morning classics like “The Rifleman,” “Roy Rogers,” “Sky King,” “Superman,” “Leave It To Beaver” and “Ozzie and Harriet” – in my house, anyway. And though the “effects” weren’t nearly as “special” as they are in today’s movie/television productions/versions, nevertheless, the effects on me, personally, were far greater. Can you say wholesome goodness? The Golden Rule? Do unto others…

‘Regionality’ of Transportation Projects Questioned

Transportation Authority approves FY2014 Project List.

“Tonight we acted to address one of the greatest threats to our region: Congestion.” So spoke Marty Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Coles District supervisor for Prince William County. Despite numerous calls to slow down the process by speakers at the public hearing before the Authority, on Wednesday, July 24, the NVTA approved the FY2014 proposed regional multimodal project list as presented and vetted by the NVTA’s Project Implementation Working Group (PIWG) headed by Authority member (and Arlington County Board Member) Christopher Zimmerman.

A Delicate Balance – At Home

How appropriate is it to tell a cancer patient something negative (that he likely doesn’t want to hear) – yet needs to know, and which might ultimately quash his fighting spirit and adversely affect his day – and night? Moreover, would withholding certain discouraging observations intermittently along the cancer-treatment way, in order for said patient to feel good and positive about himself – and better prepare him for any and all news/results which might upset his precariously imperfect life and moreover, likely chip away at his emotional wherewithal as well – cause more harm than 100-percent honesty all the time?

Silence of the Court

Justices deny public access to shield personal conversations.

The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments. Unlike the U.S. Supreme Court, which denies video recordings but allows audio recordings, the commonwealth's top appeals court has a complete blackout on public access to proceedings. In a written response to questions from Connection Newspapers, the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Virginia Supreme Court explained that audio records were once public, but the installation of new equipment in January 2008 created new concerns for justices.

Keeping Pets Safe

Veterinary experts say common household items can harm animals.

Did you know that a bowl of grapes sitting on your counter can be fatal to your dog or that a bouquet of fragrant lilies could be lethal to a cat? Were you aware that a stick of gum might cause a life-threatening canine emergency? Veterinary experts say that while pet hazards are lurking around almost every home, many pet owners are unaware of them. From favorite foods to over-the-counter-pain relievers, a number of common household items are dangerous to family pets.

The Pampered Pooch

Luxury accessories for well-heeled canines.

Marcia Schwartz strolled through the handbag section at a high-end department store at Tysons Galleria in McLean, Va., her eyes taking in the latest offerings from Prada. The companion at her side was not a personal shopper or a credit card-clad husband, however. It was a snow-white fuzzball with a rhinestone-encrusted collar named Cleopatra. Cleo, as she is most often called, is a Bichon Frisé.

For the Love of Animals

From taking orders in a pizza shop to finding homes for thousands of animals, the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation has a great "tail" to tell.

In 2001, there were too many dogs without homes and too few people to help them.

Tuesday, July 30

Classified Advertising July 31, 2013

Read the lastest ads here!

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Mystical Arts of Tibet Visits Unity

Monks create elaborate mandala sand painting with multiple meanings.

For five days last week, Unity of Fairfax Church hosted The Mystical Arts of Tibet, a touring group of 11 Tibetan Buddhist monks who worked in shifts to create a mandala sand painting on a template etched on a 4x4-foot wooden platform. They are from the Drepung Loseling Monastery near Lhasa, Tibet, but cannot return due to Chinese oppression.

Week in Vienna

Vienna farmers market to host special programs and wine spectator honors Bazin’s on Church.

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Friends of W&OD Hold 10K Race

‘Green Race’ nets $3,500 for upkeep and maintenance of trail.

ome 320 runners took part in the seventh annual Friends of the W&OD 10K Race in the Town of Vienna on Saturday, July 27, helping to raise $3,500. The Washington area’s only “Green Race” started at the caboose at the old Vienna Train Station and proceeded along the 12-foot wide W&OD Trail.

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Elton John’s ‘Aida’ Comes to Vienna

Vienna Youth Players, celebrating 20 years of performances, takes on a Broadway hit musical.

It took two knighted Brits, Elton John and Tim Rice, to create a contemporary musical production based on an Italian opera composed in the late 1800s, set in Egypt of the pharaohs, interpreted with rock music and dance. But John and Rice did, and “Aida” re-interpreted became a Broadway hit. Now, “Aida,” with its elaborate period and not-so-period costuming and modern music and dance is coming to Vienna, performed by the Vienna Youth Players.

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One Dead Dog is One Too Many

In an effort to deal with an outbreak of a yet-unidentified upper respiratory infection that has resulted in the death of one dog and sickened a dozen more, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter has temporarily suspended the intake of owner-surrendered dogs as of Friday, July 27 until the shelter can be decontaminated and sanitized. Owners wanting to surrender dogs are being sent to other shelters.

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Brother’s Brother Comes to Merrifield

Brother’s Brother Foundation (BFF) celebrated the grand opening of its Northern Virginia warehouse on Saturday.

Unlocking the Door to Affordable Housing

County considers establishment of residential studio option to assist with housing affordability.

Like most areas that have seen explosive growth in the past 30 years, Fairfax County’s stock of affordable housing has dwindled as it’s grown into one of the nation’s wealthiest counties.

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Petersen Plays FDR in ‘Annie’

City of Fairfax Theatre Company produces “Annie,” the popular “rags-to-riches” Broadway musical, with surprising ties to Fairfax County.

Lanier Middle School was packed this weekend as nearly 400 people turned out to see local families, a state senator—and even a mayor—in The City of Fairfax Theatre Company’s production and performance of “Annie.”

Roessler Named County Police Chief

New police chief vows focus on diversity.

Edwin C. Roessler, named Fairfax County's police chief at Tuesday's Board of Supervisor's meeting, promised to launch a Diversity Council in an effort to recruit, promote and respond to Fairfax County's increasingly diverse community.

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Helping Children in Need

Local teenagers start Children’s Trust Fund.

While most high school seniors spend their time thinking about the SATs, prom and college, Celia Islam of Vienna is thinking about how to help others. Islam, a rising senior at George C. Marshall High School, is the founder and president of Children’s Trust Fund (CTFund)—a nonprofit organization that seeks to aid impoverished children in developing nations.

Unlocking the Door to Affordable Housing

County considers establishment of residential studio option to assist with housing affordability.

Like most areas that have seen explosive growth in the past 30 years, Fairfax County’s stock of affordable housing has dwindled as it’s grown into one of the nation’s wealthiest counties.

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‘Regionality’ of Transportation Projects Questioned

Transportation Authority approves FY2014 Project List.

“Tonight we acted to address one of the greatest threats to our region: Congestion.” So spoke Marty Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Coles District supervisor for Prince William County.

Monday, July 29

Fairfax County Animal Shelter Temporarily Suspends Intake of Dogs

Canine influenza suspected culprit after dozen dogs become ill.

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter has temporarily suspended its intake of dogs, after one dog died of pneumonia and about a dozen more dogs have exhibited symptoms of an unspecified upper respiratory illness.

Thursday, July 25

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Twins Team Wins Vienna Babe Ruth Championship

The Twins baseball team won the Vienna Babe Ruth Senior League Championship by beating the Pirates, 2-1 on a packed night Thursday, June 27, at 8:30 p.m. on Waters Field in the heart of Vienna.

Langley Club Celebrates Despite Loss

The Langley Wildthings (2-2-1) celebrated this week, despite a 226-194 loss to the Dunn Loring Dolphins.

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Otter Divers Prevail Over Rolling Hills

The Oakton Otter divers prevailed over Rolling Hills on Tuesday, July 17, with a score of 38 to 30, bringing their win-loss record to 1 and 3.

Vienna All Stars Advance in Babe Ruth Tournament

The Senior League Vienna All Stars team (16-19) advanced to the Virginia Babe Ruth State Tournament, after finishing runner-up in the 13-district championship.

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Silence of the Court: Virginia Supreme Court Denies Access to Audio Recordings

Lack of transparency is explained as effort to shield personal conversations.

The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments.

Wednesday, July 24

Classified Advertising July 24, 2013

Read the lastest ads here!

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Feeling Pretty Good

T.C. Williams grads hit the road for first tour out of the D.C. area.

A shared appreciation for the blues has morphed into an increasingly successful reggae band with enough popularity to literally take their show on the road. FeelFree, a group of five 20-something men from Alexandria, mostly T.C. Williams graduates, last week kicked off their first East Coast tour, which will take them from this area up to New York City and down to North Carolina, with a stop in Charlottesville along the way.

Joining Together To Save Animals

There are dozens of animal welfare organizations across the country working to secure "forever homes" for dogs and cats of all ages. And while there's a general camaraderie amongst them, stemming from their common cause, what's a little friendly competition among peers? For the past few years, the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has sponsored a nationwide contest to challenge shelters to see how many more animals they could adopt between June and August beyond the total the year before.

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Making Sure Children Don't Go Hungry

Our Daily Bread provides meals for children during summer break.

For most children, summer means the end of homework and tests, and the beginning of cookouts and carefree summer vacations.

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Final Touches at Greensboro Station

The platform level canopy at the Greensboro Station is the perfect place to shoot construction looking west along Route 7.

Arts Council of Fairfax County Receives $50,000 Our Town Grant

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) announced 59 Our Town grant awards totaling $4.725 million and reaching 34 states in the Our Town program's third year of funding. The Arts Council of Fairfax County is one of 59 grantees and will receive $50,000 for Imagine Art Here, a public art community engagement project in Tysons.

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Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation Honors Barbara d’Andrade

Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation knows many hands play a role in the success of its charitable outreach and financial education efforts—including those of Barbara d’Andrade, its former executive director who has remained an active foundation volunteer since retiring in 2007.

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People and Pets

Vienna residents share photographs of their new canine companions.

Children’s Science Center Launches ‘Operation: Ladybug’

The Children’s Science Center is sponsoring a family-friendly summer project, Operation: Ladybug. The Operation is a collaborative effort between Cornell University’s “Lost Ladybug Project” and the Children’s Science Center to gather data for entomologists to identify species of ladybugs nationwide.

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Meet Vienna’s Best Friends

People and Pets

Despite his small stature, Bodi likes to play with the big dogs. Ingrid Anderson has owned Bodi for about three years and said that Bodi is very adventurous.

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Ramadan in Oakton

The American Turkish Friendship Association celebrates breaking of the daily fast.

In celebration of Ramadan, The American Turkish Friendship Association held its Ramadan Tent and Turkish cultural exhibitions July 17-19 at the Unity of Fairfax Church in Oakton.

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Sharing Expertise on Child Development

Kristen Paral of Vienna helps parents master techniques that foster the growth of well-adjusted, confident children.

While feathering your nest may turn your house into a home, occasionally, de-feathering and shifting direction may transform your happy nest into a happy and serene haven for your family.

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Bridge Replacement on Schedule

Beach Mill Road Bridge construction nearly halfway complete.

Replacement of the bridge on Beach Mill Road is one month into construction, and according to the Virginia Department of Transportation, it is proceeding according to schedule.

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McLean Orchestra Hosts Fundraiser

Supporters of McLean Orchestra gather at McLean residence.

Supporters and friends of the McLean Orchestra came together Sunday, July 20 to re-affirm the commitment they’ve made to the organization, and to look forward to their upcoming "Season of Festivity," which will begin this fall. Ann Page, past president and board member, hosted several dozen supporters at her McLean home.

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Metro Silver Line Delayed

MWAA announces at least an eight-week delay in passenger service.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority announced an approximately eight-week delay in the completion of Phase One of the Silver Line.

Tuesday, July 23

Vienna Teen Attends Student Leaders Program

Akila Prayaga, rising senior of Langley High, interns with YMCA of Metropolitan Washington.

Akila Prayaga, of Vienna, rising senior of Langley High School, was one of five Greater Washington students recently selected to participate in the Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s 2013 Student Leaders program.

Monday, July 22

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Lost Dog: Helping Save Lives, One Pet at a Time

Area residents explain their dedication to the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation.

Behind every adoption successfully completed by the Arlington-based Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, there's a volunteer with a happy heart.

Friday, July 19

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Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill and Herndon

In May 2013, 140 homes sold between $1,600,000-$197,000 in the Vienna and Oakton area. 148 Reston homes sold between $1,655,000-$110,733 and 148 homes sold between $1,330,000-$150,000 in the Herndon

Local Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales in Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill and Herndon

Thursday, July 18

Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: June, 2013

In June 2013, 160 homes sold between $1,960,000-$199,900 in the Vienna and Oakton area.

Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: June, 2013

Editorial: Share Wisdom With Newcomers and Others

The Connection's Newcomers and Community Guide publishes in late August.

Our Insider's Edition Newcomers and Community Guides, will publish the last week of August. What tips do you have for someone getting to know your community? We're hoping to share the places, activities, events, organizations and volunteer opportunities your neighbors might not know about. What great places and activities do you want your new neighbors to know about? Events that should not be missed? Organizations that do a great job? Places to volunteer? Tips for navigating your PTA or your school’s front office? We'd love to have your photos to go along with your suggestions.

Wednesday, July 17

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Q and A: Oakton Graduate Downer will Play Football at Albany

Downer helped the Oakton football team win the 2012 Northern Region championship.

Letter: Climate Change


An Existential Threat

To the Editor: It would be difficult to overstate the importance of the president’s bold new plan to cope with climate change, through maximum use of his executive authority to by-pass GOP obstructionism.

Fairfax County School Board Elects Ilryong Moon as Chairman

The Fairfax County School Board has elected Ilryong Moon (at-large) as chairman and Tamara Derenak Kaufax (Lee District) as vice chairman for a one-year term. The chair and vice chair assumed office at the July 11 school board meeting; they are elected by board members during the board’s annual organizational meeting.

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Gun Control Vigil Continues

Every month, supporters of gun regulation hold a vigil outside of the NRA headquarters to honor the victims of shootings, as well as urge Congress to take action. The vigil takes place on the 14th of every month, which is the date of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting.

Virginia Voters Get More Choices in 2013

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.

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Food for Trees Program Honored

Rotary recognizes Vincent D'Avena with Business of the Year Award.

Vincent D'Avena, the owner of A.V. Remodeling & Construction, was awarded Rotary International District 7610's Business of the Year Award at their annual conference for his company’s annual holiday charity program, Food for Trees.

Week in Vienna

The Summer on the Green Concert Series will run through the end of August. Due to inclement weather, two concerts originally scheduled for dates in June have been rescheduled for dates in July and August.

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Sounds of Summer Fun

McLean students enjoy Summer Strings Camp.

The strings students, made up of mostly rising fifth and sixth graders, packed up their instruments, adjusted their masks and robes, and said goodbye to their orchestra director, who was dressed as a rock star. They had just completed one of their final rehearsals before the students of this summer strings camp would present a concert open to their parents and the public.

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Culinaria Campers Cook Haute Cuisine

Kids’ camps run one-week sessions, touring the world through food.

Here’s one thing that Culinaria Cooking School’s summer camp has that no other summer camp around has … food … gourmet food. The culinary campers tour the world in food journeys. And if nine one-week-long camps can fill up for the duration of the summer, it says a lot about the palates of area children.

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Creating Fresh, Healthy Summer Treats

Local chefs offer recipes for refreshing, healthy snacks to keep kids satisfied during vacation.

Enticing children to forgo strawberry-flavored candy and choose fresh fruit in its natural form can be challenging. After all, lemonade, popsicles and cookies with milk are considered summertime classics.

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Virginia Voters Get More Choices in 2013

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.

Classified Advertising July 17, 2013

Read the lastest ads here!

Thursday, July 11

Oakton Grad Manner to Play Basketball at Stony Brook

Manner helped the Oakton girls' basketball team go undefeated during the 2011-12 season.

Editorial: More Than Disclosure Needed for Virginia

Time for limits on campaign contributions as well.

At least until after November’s election, most candidates in Virginia seem to think that there should be some reform to Virginia’s campaign finance and disclosure rules. At least it seems likely that most will support expanding disclosure rules to require disclosure of gifts to immediate family members as well as candidates/officials.

Wednesday, July 10

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Neighbors Foundation Hosts Annual Fireworks Show at Turner Farm

Turner Farm is site of festivities Saturday, July 6.

More than 2,500 people gathered at Turner Farm Saturday, July 6, for the annual fireworks show held by the Neighbors Foundation.

Tuesday, July 9

Petersen to Governor: Explain, Deny, Return or Resign

Petersen first Virginia legislator to suggest McDonnell resign over alleged wrongdoing in accepting gifts from prominent donor.

The tipping point for state Sen. J. Chap Petersen (D-34) was the $6,500 Rolex watch.

Week in Vienna

The 2013 Water Quality Report for the Town of Vienna and surrounding service area has been mailed to each address that receives a water bill from the town.

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High School Seniors Celebrate Volunteering

The local Cherry Blossom Chapter of the National Charity League recognized its senior class of 2013 for their community service hours at a ceremony held recently at Westwood Country Club.

Monday, July 8

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Terry McAulife Launches Healthcare Platform at Inova Alexandria Hospital

Affordable Care Act is a key point of distinction between candidates for governor.

Democratic candidate for governor Terry McAuliffe found himself in the emergency room this week, but it wasn't because of a medical crisis.

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Flint Hill Quarterback Attends All-American Football Camp

Justin Saleh from Vienna, a 6-foot-two quarterback, was one of 300 high school football players coming to Flint Hill Upper School from the Mid-Atlantic region to work with collegiate coaches Sunday, June 2, during the All-American Football Camp.

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Vienna Knuckleheads Win 4th of July Tournament

The 9U Vienna Knuckleheads won the Greater Washington 4th of July Tournament Sunday, June 30.

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Preserving Vienna’s ‘Oral History’

Interns conducts interviews, create exhibit on Vienna history.

Working with Historic Vienna, Inc., interns Caroline Gardiner and Virginia Harness have undertaken a project to create an archive of town residents’ memories.

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Pizza and Sweets for Vienna

Local shop openings feature family favorites.

Foodies, rejoice … several new food-focused shops have opened recently in Vienna and, already, they are attracting a following.

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Vienna Hosts Fun-filled 4th of July

Festival, fireworks, highlight small-town celebration.

Traditionally, hundreds of families come out for the Town of Vienna’s annual Independence Day festival and fireworks show. This year was no different.

Thursday, July 4

Classified Advertising July 3, 2013

Read the latest ads here!

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Hybrid Outrage at the Department of Motor Vehicles

Two legislators vow to introduce effort to repeal new tax on hybrid vehicles.

Suzanne Cleary has owned a hybrid vehicle since 2006, making her an early adopter and a proselytizer to her friends and neighbors.

Wednesday, July 3

Preserving Vienna’s ‘Oral History’

Interns conduct interviews, create exhibit on Vienna history.

Working with Historic Vienna, Inc., interns Caroline Gardiner and Virginia Harness have undertaken a project to create an archive of town residents’ memories. Harness describes the project as an “oral history of the town.”

Tuesday, July 2

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Keeping Tysons Moving

Annual event highlights transportation changes.

Developers of transportation projects in and affecting Tysons Corner gathered at the annual Keep Tysons Moving event Thursday, June 27, an opportunity for local companies to hear the latest updates on the 495 and 95 Express Lanes, Dulles Metrorail and more.

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Great Falls Native Goes ‘72 Hours’

Davina Friedlander tries for $100,000 on reality competition.

When Great Falls native Davina Friedlander got a chance to spend three days in Hawaii, it wasn’t exactly how she envisioned it. Instead of relaxing on a beach, sipping a drink and soaking up some rays, she fought hard to make it across the desolate, uninhabited sections of Lanai.

Column: Been There, Doing That

I.V. chemotherapy, that’s what; and I’m not infusing it for the fun of it, either.

Meatless Diet Could Prolong One’s Life

New study shows vegetarian and vegan diets could lower risk of untimely death

“The number one thing to do is to explore different types of vegetables. Think outside of green beans and corn.” — Bonita Lillie, registered dietician

Love after 50: Baby Boomers Need Romance Too

Couple chronicles their online dating experience in new book.

“Dating in your 60s is a lot different than dating in the 1960s, to be sure. Our message is one of hope and the courage to try one more time. Life is just too short.”   — Mindy Mitchell, coauthor of “Lube of Life: A Tribute to Sex, Love and the Pursuit of Happiness in the Boomer Age”

When a Bill Becomes a Law

On July 1, sales taxes go up for Fairfax County residents.

“We needed to at least make it clear that you risk a reckless driving offense if you text and drive.” —Del. David Bulova (D-37)

Don't Be Afraid; Learn About Bees

Number of drones on the increase.

What Do You Know About Bees? How many bees in an ordinary colony (hive)? a) 1000 b) 10,000 c) 60,000 or more 2. Each colony has one queen. What happens if more than one is born? a) All but one is killed b) All but one is driven out c) The first one takes half the colony and relocates 3. The oldest bee ever found (preserved in a drop of amber) lived how many years ago? a) 1,000,000 b) 25,000,000 c) 100,000,000 4. Stingers release venom for a brief time. What to do on being stung? gently back out stinger with a fingernail or credit card apply ice for swelling c) both a and b 90% of bees are workers. Which gender? a) male female Which stinging insect is vegetarian? hornet bee wasp 7. At least how much honey a colony (hive) needs for winter? 10 pounds 60 pounds 100 pounds 8. Honey has flavors depending on the blossoms visited. What do beekeepers do with "bad tasting" honey? throw it out leave it for bees to eat 9. Normal gathering range of a bee? 500 yards one-half mile c) 2 miles (or more) 10. For millennia, honey has been used treating wounds? a) true b) false Answers; 1.c; 2.a; 3.c; 4.c; 5.b; 6.b; 7.b; 8.b; 9.c; 10.a. Grading correct answers: 9-10 = A; 7-8 = "bee"; 5-6 = C. Arlington Adult Education offers a class called "Help the Honeybees!" on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at the Arlington Career Center, in Walter Reed Drive near Columbia Pike. Hours are 7 to 10 p.m. and registration is $5. Beekeepers Association of Northern Virginia has a booth at the 2013 Arlington County Fair to be held in Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 2nd Street, South, Aug. 7 - 11. Bee products are judged at the Fair and many Are offered for sale. All the answers to all the possible questions about bees are found through that association's webpage: www.beekeepersnova.org

Let the Sparks Fly in the County

It’s not too late to enjoy local 4th of July festivals, parades and fireworks.

So. It’s July 4, 2013. Independence Day. A federal holiday celebrating our freedom from Great Britain. The National Day of the United States. And you have nothing planned.

Fourth of July Fun Facts

Information provided by Smithsonian Children’s Magazine press releases. For more trivia, go to newsdesk.si.edu. Joke courtesy of Elle Ross, 7, of Vienna.

Let the Sparks Fly

It’s not too late to enjoy local 4th of July festivals, parades and fireworks.

So. It’s July 4, 2013. Independence Day. A federal holiday celebrating our freedom from Great Britain. The National Day of the United States. And you have nothing planned.

Cross County Trail Renamed After Gerry Connolly

U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11) says he is humbled by the Fairfax County Park Authority's decision to rename the 40-mile Cross County Trail the “Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail."

Virginia Lyme Disease Bill Signed

On June 25, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell and other Northern Virginia lawmakers met at Claude Moore Park in Sterling for the ceremonial signing of the Lyme Disease Information Disclosure Act of 2013.

VVFD Auctions Date With Firefighter

Men and women of Vienna fire department fuel fundraiser.

“The idea, initially, made people [firefighters and EMTs] hesitant, but when they realized it wasn’t a real date, but actually a group dinner, we got a lot more interest and support from them.” - VVFD President Anthony Stancampiano

Governor Visits Express Lanes

Standing on the side of I-95 at the height of rush hour on Tuesday, June 25, Governor Bob McDonnell looked at the construction around him with optimism.

Week in Vienna

This week in Vienna, a water quality report becomes available.

Total Health Concepts Opens in Vienna

Local residents, current clients and friends celebrated the grand opening of Total Health Concepts of Vienna on June 8, enjoying a sampling of the company’s services, nutritious grilled food, and a moon bounce for youngsters.

Elevation Burger Takes the Hamburger Higher

New restaurant features grass-fed, free-range and organic beef.

There are hamburgers and then there are hamburgers freshly-ground from humanely-raised, grass-fed, free-range beef … it’s also USDA-certified organic.

AAA Tigers Win Championship

8-5 finals defeat of Royals is Tigers’ third straight win over higher seed.

The fifth seeded Vienna Little League (VLL) AAA Tigers shook off early jitters, controversial calls and a furious last inning comeback featuring a 3-run homer, to hold off the American League Champion Royals, 8-5 Friday before an exuberant crowd at Rhodes Field at Yeonis Park.

Viewpoints

Librarians: Favorite Time of the Year

Librarians tell why the Summer Reading Program is their favorite time of the year.

Summer Reading Starts in Vienna, Oakton Libraries

Children encouraged to enjoy books as leisure.

For many years, The Fairfax County Summer Reading Program has encouraged students to continuing reading through summer vacation.

Attracting Teens to Reading

Parents of teenagers may find it harder to encourage their children to read.

Time to Read in Great Falls, McLean

Summer reading programs at local libraries attract children and parents alike.

School may be out, but Fairfax County Public Libraries are hoping that doesn’t mean students will stop reading.

Week in McLean

This week in McLean features new and exciting events!

Gay Rogers Named ‘Friend in Deed’

The Friends of the McLean Community Center honor Rogers for her contributions to the center. The Friends of the McLean Community Center organization has named McLean resident Gay Rogers the recipient

The Friends of the McLean Community Center organization has named McLean resident Gay Rogers the recipient of its 2013 “Friend in Deed” award.

Lewinsville Road Trail Completed

Connector between Scotts Run Road and Windy Hill Road.

Residents of McLean are now enjoying a new asphalt trail, along Lewinsville Road between Scotts Run and Windy Hill Roads in McLean. Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville), community leaders and Fairfax County Departments of Transportation and Capital Facilities staff dedicated the new trail at an event held on June 24 at the corner of Scotts Run and Lewinsville Roads.

‘Damn Yankees’ Arrives at the Alden

McLean Community Players to present “a grand musical comedy.”

Where and When: McLean Community Players present "Damn Yankees" at the Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Performances July 12-28. Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18-$20. There is also a special $15 ticket offer. Call 703-790-9223 or visit www.mccleanplayers.org.

McLean Orchestra Proves ‘Instrumental to Business’

When your audience expresses their wild enthusiasm, what else can you do but give them an encore?

Week in Great Falls

This week in Great Falls is filled with new and exciting events!

Local Artist to Exhibit Beach Series At Katie’s Coffee House

Local artist Jane Rader will be exhibiting her “Beach Series” photographs at Katie’s Coffee House at 760 Walker Road in Great Falls during the month of July.

Summer Abundance Hits Great Falls Farmers Market

Local farmers offer an array of healthy, tasty, fresh produce.

Summer is upon us. Our bountiful “local” earth is birthing forth a stunning array of healthy, tasty, fresh produce for our nourishment and good health—just picked the day before they are brought to market.

Monday, July 1

Editorial: HOT-Lanes and No Metro for I-66?

Did you miss the public discussion and input? So did we.

One day when I was stuck in traffic on I-66, I was briefly entertained by the license plate of the vehicle in front of me. "66 SUCKS," it read. No question, commuting on I-66 is a bear.