Monday, October 31
Vienna Halloween Parade Draws Thousands of Spectators
70th annual parade focused on the 1940s in 75-minute most-loved event.
By early morning on Oct. 26, Maple Avenue was lined with blankets, chairs, even tenting, to mark spectator-places along the halloween parade route between Branch Road and Center Street.
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.
Week in McLean
Shepherd’s Center Needs Volunteers to Help Area Seniors
Shepherd’s Center Needs Volunteers to Help Area Seniors
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.
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.
Classified Advertising October 26, 2016
Read the latest ads here!
Tuesday, October 25
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.
Vienna Partnership to Save Pets
Vienna Vintner and Wolf Trap Animal Rescue raising funds to build a rescue shelter and animal hospital in Merrifield.
A FUNdraiser was held on behalf of Wolf Trap Animal Rescue, a local vet-and-volunteer-run animal rescue team. Organized and coordinated by Jordan Rice, daughter of JDA custom home builder Dennis Rice, the fundraiser included appetizers donated by local restaurants and a diversity of high-quality wines donated by Vienna Vintner.
Tireless Advocate for the Community
Letter to the Editor
Small business is the backbone of the American economy, employing 55 percent of Americans. However, I’ve watched it become increasingly more difficult to survive under the onslaught of federal regulations and taxes thrown on small businesses.
Madison High Musicians Perform at Thoreau Middle
Sixteen different musical selections were performed ranging from “African Adventure" by Robert Sheldon, to selections from “Fiddler on the Roof.” The Madison High performers played a live show at Thoreau Middle School.
Sergeant Michael Reeves Retires from Vienna Police Department
Michael Reeves retired on Oct. 1, after more than 29 years of dedicated service with the Town of Vienna Police Department. Sergeant Reeves started his career with the Town of Vienna Police Department in March of 1987.
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
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.
Vienna: Kathrine Switzer Joins Girls on the Run of NOVA
Kathrine Switzer, an iconic athlete, sports and social advocate, author, and Emmy award-winning television commentator -- the first woman to officially enter and run the Boston Marathon -- joined a Girls on the Run of NOVA team practice at Waples Mill Elementary in Vienna. She participated in the practice and spoke with the girls about her experiences as a woman gaining leadership skills and strength of character through running and sport.
Vienna Letter: Clear Choice in 10th District
Letter to the Editor
I’m writing to urge my 10th District neighbors to vote for Barbara Comstock, our incumbent congresswoman. Barbara is an outstanding professional—but she is also one of us, with the same personal concerns and experiences. She and her husband moved to McLean in 1981 and have been active in the community ever since. She understands our issues through the lens of a mother, grandmother, a daughter and a small business owner.
Vienna Snapshot: The Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna Hosts Appreciation Breakfast
The Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV) recently hosted an appreciation breakfast for their volunteers who provide services as SCOV’s Friendly Visitors; Friendly Callers and Handy Helpers. More than 125 of SCOV’s volunteers are engaged in providing Friendly Visitors; Friendly Callers and Handy Helpers services for seniors. Pictured, from left, first row: (l-r) Hyacinth Rodrigues; Shirley Lucas; Lenore Holm and Florence Andrews, SCOV Friendly Caller/Visitor Coordinator. Second row: Jerry O’Shaunessy; Shiva Tavana, SCOV Volunteer Coordinator; Ed Lowry; Jean Jennings; Bob Brennan and Mei Chou Donovan. To volunteer, donate or learn more about how you can help, visit www.scov.org or contact the SCOV office at 703-281-0538.
Vienna, Herndon, Springfield: Baking a Robot
‘Lego Girls’ from Fairfax-Herndon-Vienna area raise funds for competition.
“Bake Sale! Support an all-girls robotics team!” our team yelled in front of Giant, our local grocery store, located on Lee Jackson Memorial Highway.
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, 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.
Town of Vienna Names Public Works Director
Michael Gallagher is the Town of Vienna’s new public works director, but he is not a new face to the Town or its residents. Gallagher has worked in Vienna’s public works department for six years, most recently, since May, as acting director. He was named public works director on Sept. 21.
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.
Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: September, 2016
In September, 2016, 95 homes sold between $2,303,442-$263,000 in the Vienna and Oakton area.
Vienna, Oakton Home Sales: September, 2016
Wednesday, October 12
Classified Advertising October 12, 2016
Read the latest ads here!
Tuesday, October 11
Brief: Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna Hosts a Minister’s Breakfast
This summer the Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV) hosted a Minister’s Breakfast. With over forty clergy and families attending, the event was sponsored by The Crossings at Chantilly and held in the Vienna Baptist Church fellowship hall.
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.
Fairfax County Public Schools Beat Virginia On-Time Graduation Rate
The Virginia Department of Education has released graduation rates for school systems around the Commonwealth. Fairfax County Public Schools had 92.3 percent of its 2016 class graduate on time, compared with the state average 91.3 percent.
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.
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.
Vienna Oktoberfest Celebrates the Season
As the drizzle and dark clouds moved out of Vienna on Saturday, Vienna Oktoberfest guests moved into the celebration grounds.
Former Vienna Resident Patrick Anthony DeStefani, 51, Dies
Patrick Anthony DeStefani, 51, of Harrisonburg, lost his battle with Pancreatic Cancer on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016, at his home. Mr. DeStefani was born in Arlington, Va., on Sept. 13, 1965, and was the son of James and Evaline DeStefani.
Vienna: Optimists Host Family Fun Day on Town Green
Club’s annual fundraising campaign on behalf of Growing Hope netted about $32,000.
The Optimist Club of Greater Vienna – once again – raised more than $32,00 from its annual “Growing Hope” fundraising campaign on behalf of families facing childhood cancer .
Vienna: Capitol Steps to Perform at Oakton High
A Benefit for the Shepherd’s Center of Oakton-Vienna to be held on Sunday Oct. 23.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, Oct. 23 at 3 p.m. and enjoy an outrageously funny afternoon of political humor and laugh-out-loud fun with Capitol Steps.
Vienna: Oktoberfest-Vienna Features German Auto Show
Oktoberfest-Vienna 2016 expanded its program to include a German Auto Show section. This German Auto Show included BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volkswagen which were staffed with highly qualified experts on the product.