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!
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.
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
Citizens Coalition for Police Accountability Compiles List of Victims
List of organizations supporting Citizens Coalition for Police Accountability, Inc.’s proposal to create a Citizens Police Oversight Board in Fairfax County includes:
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!
Mount Vernon Bulletin
Fort Hunt High School 50th Anniversary. Celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary with events every day. Register at www.fhhs-alum.org. Gatherings at local restaurants, dinner and dancing, music, a cook-out on Sunday at Fort Hunt Park, vintage car show, live entertainment by local bands including alumni of the school and more. Visit www.fhhs-alum.org.
Focus on Groveton's Founding Families
Author explores history of former farming community.
Longtime Groveton resident Charlotte Brown's book "Groveton" uses both stories and pictures from local residents and business owners to provide readers with a colorful and informative look at the history of the area.
Cliff Hardison, 60, Dies
Principal of West Potomac High School was dedicated to students.
Cliff Hardison, the principal of West Potomac High School since 2009, died from lung cancer on Tuesday, July 23. He was 60 and did not smoke. “It’s really a sad day and really a shock to everyone,” said Del. Scott A. Surovell (D-44). “Cliff was a real gentleman; his first priority was his students. He loved West Potomac High School and his staff respected him.”
Fort Hunt Federals Celebrate ‘Spirit That’s Still Alive’
Recalling and celebrating Fort Hunt High School.
Though Fort Hunt High School has not operated for over 20 years, hundreds of graduates will reunite this weekend at Fort Hunt Park to celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary.
Coalition Renews Call for Justice
Coalition renews call for justice in police-related shooting.
Three years ago the Board of Supervisors rejected a proposal by the Citizens Coalition for Police Accountability to form a citizen police oversight board. Instead they agreed with the recommendations of the county executive and police chief to assign responsibility for investigating citizen complaints of alleged misconduct to the county’s independent auditor.
Pets
Little Orphan Annie No More
On the evening of Feb. 22, 2011 we let our standard poodle, Toby, into the yard for a last potty break before bedtime. We heard a dog bark at Toby. My husband Glenn went into the yard to investigate.
FHYAA Names Jackson Casey Memorial Scholarship Winners
The Fort Hunt Youth Athletic Association announced the winners of the 2013 Jackson Casey Memorial Scholarships.
Aldersgate Awards 11 Scholarships
The Aldersgate Permanent Endowment Committee has awarded a total of 11 scholarships for the 2013-14 school year. Eight awards were college scholarships and three were seminary scholarships.
Mount Vernon Military Notes
Army National Guard Staff Sergeant Michael Colesanti from Mount Vernon has re-enlisted to continue service with the Company B (Military Intelligence), 27th Brigade Special Troops Battalion.
Letter to the Editor: Promote Healthy Eating, Not Supplements
I echo Del. Scott Surovell’s call for Governor McDonnell’s resignation in his July 13 Dixie Pig blog http://scottsurovell.blogspot.com/2013/07/its-time-to-move-on-governor-mcdonnell.html#more. However, I come to my conclusion from the perspective as a dietitian and diabetes educator. I practice my trade using research-based evidence and recommend that people eat healthy to manage and prevent disease by choosing and preparing real foods, not by taking supplements.
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.
Letter to the Editor: Complete Easy Solutions
What in the world are our elected representatives doing talking about another $1M study to figure out what to do about Route 1 traffic between the Beltway and Fort Belvoir? During the past 20 years, Senator Puller has sponsored at least two $1M studies about what to do to improve the traffice on Route 1. So far more than $4 million has been spent on studies. There are immediate, much less costly solutions that this money could be used for.
Mount Vernon School Notes
Caroline T. Kelly has been named to first honors on the Clark University dean’s list for the spring 2013 semester.
Monday, July 22
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
Mount Vernon Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales
In May 2013, 157 homes sold between $1,400,000-$65,000 in the Mount Vernon area.
Mount Vernon Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales
Thursday, July 18
Mount Vernon Home Sales: June, 2013
In June 2013, 165 homes sold between $1,278,000-$78,000 in the Mount Vernon area.
Mount Vernon Home Sales: June, 2013
Working Together To Assist ‘Warriors in Transition’
Panels connects Fort Belvoir with surrounding communities.
U.S. Rep. Jim Moran and Fairfax County Supervisor Gerry Hyland hosted a roundtable conversation on Monday, July 15, at Fort Belvoir to discuss and brainstorm how to better coordinate public land use, the non-profit community, and Fort Belvoir’s resources to maximize soldiers’ rehabilitation.
Genuario Elected President of Home Builders Association
Second generation home builder to lead state-wide association
Louis Genuario, Jr., a native of Mount Vernon and second generation home builder and developer, has been elected by his peers in the home building industry to lead the 3,237-member Home Builders Association of Virginia. His election comes at a critical juncture in the history of the association because of economic, regulatory, and political issues.
Encouraging Volunteering by Example
Queenie Cox, a native of Gum Springs, has served for many years — and continues to serve — as an advocate on behalf of the Gum Springs community and for the betterment of the entire Mount Vernon area in a leadership role on various committees of the Mount Vernon Council of Citizens Associations.
Mount Vernon School Notes
Gabrielle Sakellarides graduated from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine with a degree of doctor of osteopathic medicine May 25.
Mount Vernon Military Notes
Mount Vernon Military Notes
Mount Vernon Bulletin
Vacation Bible School. 9 a.m. Plymouth Haven Baptist Church, 8600 Plymouth Road. For children who have completed Kindergarten through grade 6. Call 703-360-4370 or visit www. plymouthhaven.org.
Alexandria Calendar
Summer Classes. Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250.
Business Notes
Voila Pastry & Café has leased 1,600 square feet next to New China Taste at Huntington Station Shopping Center in Alexandria.
Alexandria Compounding Pharmacy in New Location
Alexandria Compounding Pharmacy, meeting prescription and health care needs of the community for more than 50 years, opened at its new location at 500 Montgomery Street, Suite 120, Alexandria, in May. “We are so excited to be in our new location with so many wonderful people,” said Farzana Kennedy, owner of Alexandria Compounding Pharmacy. “Our new facility has the state of the art Clean (Sterile) Rooms so that we can help our doctors, veterinarians and patients with our customized medications.” Alexandria Compounding Pharmacy is a personal and professional pharmacy focused on the improvement of patient care through the art and science of compounding. The pharmacy produces a variety of medications for both human and veterinary clients. The business provides delivery services to the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C. metro area.
To the Editor: Investigation Not Complete
On July 13, Del. Scott Surovell (D-44th District) posted his views on his blog regarding recent allegations concerning Governor Robert McDonnell. Delegate Surovell called upon the Governor to resign at this time and opined that he didn't want anyone to interpret his previous silence as acquiescence to alleged actions on the part of the Governor. In so doing, he quoted state Sen. Chap Petersen although not revealing that Senator Petersen is his law partner.
To the Editor: Preserving Neighborhoods
Highlighted in Mr. Pope's article [“Extend the Yellow Liine?” The Gazette, July 11] on the transit study for the Route 1 corridor is Jayna Reeder's comment that “... we moved away from the city, so we don't have to have big buildings around our neighborhood.” Ms. Reeder, the big buildings are there: Home Depot, Costco, Aldi, etc. Supervisor McKay, in the article's online version, commented that there are ways to develop transit that “... don't detonate a community and don't turn it into Tysons Corner.” The community has already detonated, Mr. McKay. There is no community to speak of along the corridor itself, because you can't interact very much with your fellow man unless you're out of your car.
To the Editor: Police Oversight Board: When?
The Virginia Citizens Coalition for Police Accountability, Inc. is a statewide pro-police citizens advocacy group with its primary goal being to make Virginia a better and safer place for all its citizens. In Fairfax County, the CCPA has proposed that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors appoint a Citizen Complaint Oversight Board to investigate citizen allegations of police abuse, misconduct, negligence and civil rights violations and report its findings and recommendations to the Chief of Police.
To the Editor: Recall Lessons Of History
Re: “We Need to Talk” (July 3, 2013 editorial) Yes, let’s talk about the importance of July 4 to us as individuals and to our city, state and nation — and remember how our freedoms have been won and protected. This special birthday anniversary of our country needs to be set aside for remembering our relevant history; current problems can to be addressed at other times.
Correction
In "Friday Affair" [The Gazette, July 4], the name in the photograph of the vendor with children’s clothing was incorrect. It should have been Lauren Lyles.
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.
Q and A: Mount Vernon Grad Loftus to Play Basketball at Hofstra
Loftus helped Mount Vernon win three consecutive National District championships.
Wednesday, July 17
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.
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.
Students, Teachers Practice Science
There’s something for everyone at GMU’s VISTA science camp.
The thought of spending a summer immersed in science and math assignments is likely to make many students cringe. However, some Northern Virginia children are embracing the idea with a summer camp filled with projects that run the gamut from baking cookies in a solar oven to building a model roller coaster.
Classified Advertising July 17, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Thursday, July 11
Mount Vernon School Notes
Nathaniel Chester and Julia Larsen have been named to the dean’s honors list at Connecticut College.
Events Calendar
Alexandria Calendar
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.
Mount Vernon Bulletin
The Mount Vernon Genealogical Society will meet in room 112 of the Hollin Hall Senior Center. The meeting, which is free and open to the public, will feature a presentation by Nancy Wing titled "Treating the Sick and Wounded: Civil War Medical Records." Visit www.MVGenealogy.org.
Mount Vernon Military Notes
Marine Corps Pfc. Joshua W. Nickson, son of Master Sgt. Herman Wayne Nickson of Alexandria, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C., designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.
Mount Vernon Crime Report
PEEPING, 7900 block of Janna Lee Avenue, 6/30/13, 1:10 a.m. A 30-year-old woman reported she saw an unknown man looking into her bedroom window. The suspect was not located.
Dueling Farmers Market Surveys
Latest survey reveals widespread support for a farmers market at Belle View Shopping Center.
The future of the scope, character, number of markets and location of the Mount Vernon Farmers Market continues to be an intensely debated local issue.
Mount Vernon Briefs
Scouts Collecting For Operation Walk Virginia
As part of a Boy Scout Eagle project, Troop 1509 is holding a drive for Operation Walk Virginia, seeking crutches, walkers, bedsheets, disposable gloves and clipboards. Drop off donations at St. Aidan's Episcopal Church. 8531 Riverside Road, between 2 and 5 p.m. this Sunday, July 14. For more information, email djpeagleproject@gmail.com.
Letter to the Editor: Ready For Flight
As of the date of publication, the two osprey chicks in the Little Hunting Creek OspreyCam nest are over 50 days old. As reported by the Georgian Bay Osprey Society (http://www.gbosprey.ca/About.html), osprey chicks typically begin flying at 50-60 days, so we are about to witness their first aerial efforts.
Should the Yellow Line Be Extended South Beyond Huntington to Lorton?
Transit study could determine fate of possible Metro extension along Route 1 corridor.
Should the Yellow Line be expanded beyond the Huntington Metro station?
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.
Monday, July 8
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.
Thursday, July 4
Classified Advertising July 3, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
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
Gospel Thumps with a Beat at Rising Hope
Family Fun Fair rocks at Rt. 1 mission church.
“Here I am, Jesus! Signed, sealed, delivered! I’m yours!” wailed singer Ezekiel Raspberry Sr. of The Crowns of Life performing Motown-Gospel Saturday, June 29, at the Family Fun Fair held at Rising Hope Mission on Russell Road between Hybla Valley and Woodlawn.
Launching ‘A Friday Affair’
A marketplace for community businesses.
Gale Curcio and Nina Tisara have collaborated to organize, promote, and manage what they said was a much needed new community venue for small businesses. Nestled in Mason Hill's community at the highest elevation point in southern Fairfax County, the historic Hollin Hall building on Windmill lane fulfills their vision of a new community market and meeting place.
Preparing for ‘Silver Tsunami’
Community forums seek ideas for updating county‘s Older Adults Action Plan.
The 50+ Action Plan Community Forum held in the South County government center on June 19 was one of numerous forums to be held county-wide over the next several months as part of an effort to update an Older Adults Action Plan initially adopted by the county in 2007.
Mount Vernon Bulletin
Meeting. 1 p.m. The Mount Vernon Genealogical Society will meet in room 112 of the Hollin Hall Senior Center.The meeting, which is free and open to the public, will feature a presentation by Nancy Wing titled "Treating the Sick and Wounded: Civil War Medical Records." Visit www.MVGenealogy.org.
Food for Thought
Food has re-entered the past, embracing the old concept of sustainable farming and eating healthy. A panel of “foodies” came together Saturday afternoon, June 29, at the “Chew on This” event sponsored by United Community Ministries.
Mount Vernon School Notes
Simone Liu was honored at a statewide awards ceremony for academically advanced children sponsored by The Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth.
Commentary: Much To Cherish This Fourth of July
Two-hundred thirty-seven years ago, Thomas Jefferson put down his pen and sent the Declaration of Independence to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. It was a steamy July day and after two days of debate and edits they emerged with the document we hold so dear and celebrate this week. A philosophical treatise and declaration to King George, it begins “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Commentary: Distracted Driving Can Be Reckless
On July 1, a new Virginia Law goes into effect makes it clear that writing or reading emails or text messages is now a primary offense for which a driver may be stopped. The law also makes clear that if someone is convicted of reckless driving and texting/emailing while driving, there is a mandatory minimum fine of $250.
Letter to the Editor: Unsatisfactory Response
Thank you for your reply to my letter of June 3; although I must say your reply, if anything, gives me even more concern than I felt before, and I didn’t think that was possible. You say in your reply that “In response to a march 29, 2011, Board Item to establish a review process for the Fairfax County Police Department, the county’s Internal Audit Office issed a report” and that I could look up the report on the county’s website.
Mount Vernon Crime Report
ASSAULT/LARCENY, 4000 block of Fielding Street, June 20, 11 p.m. A 14-year-old boy reportedly was at a local park attempting to retrieve his bicycle. Several juvenile boys confronted him and allegedly assaulted him.
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.