Wednesday, July 31
Fairfax County Expands Eligibility for Homeownership Program
On Tuesday, July 16, the Board of Supervisors approved an amendment to the county’s Comprehensive Plan aimed at expanding affordable home ownership opportunities.
Route 28 and Route 29 Interchange Ramps Nighttime Closures
July 31, Aug. 1, Aug. 4-8; detours in place during ramp paving.
Weather permitting, the Route 28 (Sully Road/Centreville Road) and Route 29 interchange ramps will have nighttime closures Wednesday night, July 31; Thursday night, Aug. 1 and Sunday night, Aug. 4 through Thursday night, Aug. 8 between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. each night for paving, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Second-Degree Murder Yields 28 Years in Prison
Robertson is sentenced for violent killing of Fairfax man.
Although Aaron Robertson was sentenced last week to 28 years in prison for the brutal killing of Fairfax City’s Luis Barahona Reyes, the victim’s family and the prosecutor were hoping for more.
12.5 Percent Fare Hike Hits Fairfax Connector Riders July 29
On Monday, July 29, fare increases for riding the Fairfax Connector began. Riders will pay 12.5 percent more.
Fairfax County's Thriving Business Scene
New openings and community impact.
Fairfax County has seen a wave of new businesses opening their doors in recent months, each bringing unique offerings and vibrant energy to the community.
Tax Free Weekend
Old Town retailers add to sales tax holiday.
As Virginia’s annual tax-free weekend approaches Aug. 2-4, more than 30 retailers in Old Town will participate by covering the sales tax on all purchases including those items not usually part of the sales tax holiday.
Friendship Firehouse Festival
Historic fire company celebrates 250 years.
A celebration of the 250th anniversary of Alexandria’s Friendship Fire Company will be on full display at the upcoming Friendship Firehouse Festival Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the 100 block of South Alfred Street.
United Community Needs 75 Gift Cards
The start of the new school year is just around the corner with Fairfax County Public Schools beginning on Aug. 19.
Creative Vision
Van Landingham celebrated for Torpedo Factory transformation.
Marian Van Landingham, a former Virginia State Delegate and champion of the arts, was celebrated at her home in Old Town July 13 as the driving force behind transforming the Torpedo Factory into a nationally recognized art center 50 years ago.
‘The Lost Weekend’
Local gallery hosts Lennon exhibit.
Members of the Alexandria Rotary Club were special guests July 19 at the Nepenthe Gallery for an exhibit by photographer May Pang, who showcased her candid photographs of John Lennon.
Thursday, July 25
USDA’s Free Summer Meal Services Ending
Where to turn? New USDA program SUN Bucks and local help available.
Where to turn? New USDA program SUN Bucks and local help available.
Virginia’s Tax-Free Sales Holiday August 2-4
Hurricane preparedness, school supply and certain energy saving products and more eligible.
Hurricane preparedness, school supply and certain energy saving products and more eligible.
Connolly Statement on President Joe Biden
Connolly Statement on President Joe Biden
$150M for Virginia for Climate Pollution Reduction
$150M for Virginia for Climate Pollution Reduction
South Lakes Food Pantry HIts Major Distribution Weight Milestone
7th Annual "Do It Your Way 0.5K" fundraiser to commemorate achievement.
7th Annual "Do It Your Way 0.5K" fundraiser to commemorate achievement.
Office Building Razed for Affordable Housing
Groundbreaking for Somas at McLean Metro
Groundbreaking for Somas at McLean Metro
Fairfax County Awarded $50.5 Million for New Low-Emission Buses
Federal grant paves the way.
Federal grant paves the way.
12.5 Percent Fare Hike Hits Fairfax Connector Riders July 29
Not small change, given increased consumer costs and decreased dollar buying power.
Not small change, given increased consumer costs and decreased dollar buying power.
Two Great Events Come to the Town of Vienna
Mr. Lilo and The Vienna Community Band and the Fairfax Jubilee-Aires
Mr. Lilo and The Vienna Community Band and the Fairfax Jubilee-Aires
Wednesday, July 24
Be Safe! Hurricane Season Started
Purchase tax-free hurricane preparedness products like batteries, generators, 2-way radios, bottled water and tie-down kits Aug. 2-4.
Earlier this summer, we saw Hurricane Beryl barrel through the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico as a Category 5 storm, so this is a good time to remind you about preparing your home and family for hurricane season.
Come Gleaning with Plot Against Hunger in 2024
Each Tuesday through October, head out to local farms to pick produce and deliver it back to Arlington area feeding programs. Mornings usually begin by 8 a.m. at a designated farm, which can change based on the crop. Each location will be within an hour of Arlington.
Supervisors Defer Decision on Data Center Zoning
Public hearing confirms, ‘The devil is in the details.’
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted 10-0 to defer their decision on a proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment regarding data centers until their July 30 regular meeting. This unexpected move occurred late Tuesday evening, July 16, after a staff presentation, Q&A between the board and staff, and four-and-a-half hours of public testimony. The record would still be open for written testimony.
Beyer on Biden; Supports Harris
The past few weeks have been very difficult, but I am proud to be a member of a party that tolerates dissent. We are not a cult of personality where any disagreement results in threats or purges.
Calling all Older Adults 60+
Register Now for the Fall Senior Academy Sessions Begin Wednesday, Sept. 4
Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) and the City of Alexandria are gearing up for the fall academies for Alexandria residents and employees. SSA is excited to offer the Senior Academy to Alexandria residents and employees 60 and older starting on Wednesday, Sept. 4.
Teen Arrested in Fatal Pedestrian Crash
Saturday night, July 20, around 10:35 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Lorton Road and Timarand Drive in Lorton for a pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle.
School Board Changes Boundary Policy
Changes to boundary policy emphasize capacity, removes concern for impact on students.
Poised to observe its annual summer recess from July 19 to Aug. 19, 2024, during its meeting on the evening of July 18, the Fairfax School Board voted 9 to 2 on the main motion that the School Board amend Policy 8130 on Local School Boundaries, Program Assignments, and School Closings, as amended and detailed in the agenda item attachment.
“Flourishing After 55”
55+ Programs are in person at 55+ Centers unless otherwise noted. A 55+ Pass is required to participate starting at a $20 annual fee. To join or register, go to registration.arlingtonva.us or call 703-228-4747.
15th Annual Alexandria Summer Sidewalk Sale
One of the longest-running seasonal summer shopping events, Alexandria Summer Sidewalk Sale, returns on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, throughout Old Town and beyond.
Alexandria Police Investigate Construction Site Fatality
Alexandria News Briefs
‘Spite House’ Author at Hooray for Books!
John Adam Wasowicz will be discussing and signing copies of “Spite House” this Saturday, July 27, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hooray for Books at 1555 King Street in the heart of Old Town.
Ongoing Alive Volunteer Opportunities
Fresh Produce Gleaning- Tuesday Mornings Join the Friends of Urban Agriculture/Plot Against Hunger Glean Team. Help harvest fresh produce for our neighbors.
Shirlington Circle South Rotary Bridge over I-395
The Shirlington Circle south rotary bridge over I-395 closed 10 p.m. Sunday, July 21, and will reopen 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 28 for work related to the bridge rehabilitation project, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Harris Is My Choice for President
My endorsement of Kamala Harris for president is not just an endorsement of a candidate but an affirmation of our values as Democrats. It is a recognition of the need for a leader who understands the struggles of all Americans and is committed to creating a fairer, more just society.
National eCYBERMISSION Competition Winners Hail from Fairfax County
Status update local STEM-In-Action Grant recipient team, the biodegradable and affordable diaper.
Status update local STEM-In-Action Grant recipient team, the biodegradable and affordable diaper.
Tree Cover Protected in Town of Vienna
Town makes a move to keep the shade of older trees.
Town makes a move to keep the shade of older trees.
Friday, July 19
Potomac Home Sales: June, 2024
In June, 2024, 56 Potomac homes sold between $2,500,000-$670,000.
Potomac Home Sales: June, 2024
Wednesday, July 17
Artists Share Work at Pathway Homes’ Arts Exhibit
Pathway Homes hosted an Artist Reception as part of its 11th Annual Summer of the Arts Exhibit, where Pathway Homes’ residents who have mental health challenges showcase and sell their own art, poetry, and crafts.
“Flourishing After 55”
55+ Programs are in person at 55+ Centers unless otherwise noted. A 55+ Pass is required to participate starting at a $20 annual fee. To join or register, go to registration.arlingtonva.us or call 703-228-4747.
The Tradition Goes On at Lyon Village
The usual red, white and blue banner is unfurled across the street and held aloft by many of the regulars at the beginning of the parade. GJ Carten, a long-time participant, remembers the Lyon Village picnic started in 1972, and the parade was added in 1980.
Confirmed Case of Measles, Could You Have Been Exposed?
The Arlington County Public Health Division (ACPHD) was notified of a confirmed case of measles in a person who visited a grocery store in Arlington while contagious.
O’Leary to Lead Visit Alexandria
Tourism exec named new CEO of city’s destination marketing.
Todd O’Leary, a 27-year veteran of the travel and tourism industry, has been named the president and CEO of Visit Alexandria.
Alexandria Woman Sentenced To More Than 2 Years
An Alexandria woman was sentenced this week to two years and two months in prison for repeatedly submitting fraudulent health insurance claims and illegally collecting $128,748 in payments to which she was not entitled.
Free Scoops of Gelato on ‘Sundae’ July 21
Celebrate Dolcezza’s 20th Birthday and National Ice Cream Day
Dolcezza will give away thousands of free scoops of gelato on ‘Sundae’ July 21 to celebrate its 20th birthday, which is also National Ice Cream Day.
Good Shepherd Housing School Supply Drive Underway
Monetary donations are also crucial.
The Good Shepherd Housing School Supply Drive is underway, a crucial initiative that will directly impact the lives of children in need. The nonprofit organization is collecting backpacks and school supplies for the 2024-2025 school year and would like to receive all donations by Aug. 1.
Allow Virginians To Use IRS Direct File
IRS recently opened Direct File to all 50 states after successful pilot; Virginia participation requires further action by Youngkin Administration and General Assembly
Too Many Deer in Arlington — Now What?
The recent debate about deer management in Arlington has aroused some mixed emotions about the best method to cut back the deer population or whether it is needed at all.
Seniors Quilt Keeps History Alive
History is kept alive in many ways—through historical novels, ballads, folklore passed down through the generations. For one group of Arlington seniors, local history of the now closed Lee Center is being kept alive through the display of a quilt they pieced together in 2000.
Heat Wave Grips the Area, Amplifies Heat Islands
Neighborhoods impacted by poverty and which have a high percentage of minority residents average several degrees hotter because of the absence of trees.
Heat
Town of Vienna Holds Naturalization Ceremony.
The door opens for dreams to come true.
Naturalization
Thursday, July 11
Data Center Zoning Amendment at Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Tuesday, July 16
Data Center Zoning Amendment at Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Tuesday, July 16
Environmental Stewardship: Making a Difference
County recognizes residents who participate in the environmental stewardship.
County recognizes residents who participate in the environmental stewardship.
Wednesday, July 10
Highlights of Virginia LCV’s Scored Legislation Patroned by Lawmakers of the Fairfax County Delegation to the General Assembly
LCV’s positions and governor’s actions.
Gov. Youngkin vetoed 201 bills in 2024, including bipartisan environmental protection legislation. Virginia LCV classified scored legislation into five categories: energy and climate, good government, land conservation, land use and transportation, and water quality. Virginia LCV provided its position, whether supporting or opposing the bills, and compared such against Gov. Youngkin’s actions, whether he signed the bills into law or vetoed them.
Virginia League of Conservation Voters 2024 General Assembly Conservation Scorecard Released
Fairfax’s state legislators sweep the Scorecard’s honor roll.
Of the 22 elected officials in the Virginia General Assembly who represent all, or a portion of, the citizens of Fairfax County, 19 achieved a perfect score of 100 percent, earning the honorary title of "Legislative Hero” from the Virginia LCV. The remaining three achieved a near-perfect score of 95 percent, earning them the title of "2024 Legislative Leader."
Car Seat Inspections on July 18
Parents may get their children’s car seats inspected on Thursday, July 18, from 5-8:30 p.m., outside the Sully District Police Station.
Sheriff’s Office, ICE Square Off
Springfield rapist of Herndon child sentenced; found to possess child sexual abuse material says U.S. Attorney’s Office.
A June 27 press release by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Virginia, reported that a “Honduran national who raped a 13-year-old victim was sentenced to five years in prison for receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and assaulting a federal officer.”
Thursday, July 4
National Museum of the Marine Corps Dedicates Respite Room
Marine Corps Heritage Foundation marks PTSD awareness month with dedication ceremony
Marine Corps Heritage Foundation marks PTSD awareness month with dedication ceremony
Community News at a Glance
News Briefs
Schools: Community News at a Glance
School Board To Update School Boundary Policy Later This Month
Schools
Wednesday, July 3
School Board To Update School Boundary Policy Later This Month
The Fairfax County School Board scheduled action to amend Policy 8130 on adjusting school boundaries at its meeting on July 18, 2024. The revised draft policy, Policy 8130.8, is subject to updates. Updated policy will focus more on capacity, staff discussions indicate.
Volunteers Recognized at Annual Leadership Luncheon
Citing the hundreds of hours from volunteers working with Arlington County’s 55+ centers, County Board Chairman Libby Garvey said, “If we had to pay these volunteers, it would have cost the County $230,545.16.”
Winners of A. Heath Onthank Award
Three employees receive the county’s highest government honor award.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recognized Tajweer Beaufort, Leila Gordon, and Kim Young with the A. Heath Onthank Award, the highest government employee honor.
“Flourishing After 55”
55+ Programs are in person at 55+ Centers unless otherwise noted. A 55+ Pass is required to participate starting at a $20 annual fee. To join or register, go to registration.arlingtonva.us or call 703-228-4747.
What’s Happening Besides the Reston Farmers Market
The county is a large, ponderous organization which often struggles to address essential public policy matters efficiently, if at all. Several matters are in need of attention, ones affecting residents’ quality of life and others crippling businesses’ (especially small ones) ability to deliver goods and services or to make a living.
Arlington Visitor Spending Hit Record $4.5 Billion in 2023
Arlington, Virginia had 7.1 million visitors in 2023, according to a study released this week by the Arlington Convention and Visitors Service.
David Arias Sandoval, 23, of Herndon Dead in Motorcycle Crash
Detectives from FCPD Crash Reconstruction Unit are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash in Chantilly.
Musical Comes to Life in a New York Apartment
Westfield Summer Stage presents ‘The Drowsy Chaperone.’
Each year, Westfield Summer Stage gives audiences the chance to see some of the most talented high-school thespians from throughout Fairfax County.
Donate Supplies to The Lamb Center
All supplies may be brought to The Lamb Center at 3160 Campbell Drive in Fairfax City. Donation hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; and Saturday, from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Clifton Pedestrian Killed, Another Injured in Centreville
The Fairfax County Police Department said detectives from their Crash Reconstruction Unit are investigating the Monday, June 24 fatal pedestrian crash in Centreville.
Service Above Self
Jim Carmalt, center, was sworn in as the 2024-2025 president of the Rotary Club of Alexandria at the organization’s June 25 meeting at Belle Haven Country Club.
A Fond Farewell
Visit Alexandria bids adieu to Patricia Washington.
The annual Summer Social hosted by Visit Alexandria was bittersweet this year as the event served as a farewell to Patricia Washington, who for 12 years has served as the organization’s president and CEO.
On new Department of Education guidance for individuals affected by joint consolidated student loans
For years, borrowers in joint consolidated loans have faced frustrating bureaucratic hurdles and dismal prospects for severing their loans, keeping them trapped in financial agreements with unresponsive or abusive ex-spouses and preventing them from accessing loan forgiveness programs.