Thursday, November 30
‘Only Developers Will Win’
Protesters converge on City Hall ahead of controversial vote.
zoning protest
Alexandria Ditches Jim Crow Zoning
Unanimous vote on City Council eliminates single-family housing.
zoning
Wednesday, November 29
6 Teens Seriously Hurt in McLean Crash
News Briefs
Pedestrian Struck, Critically Injured
News Briefs
Our Neighborhood’s Special Role in Saving Babies from Norovirus
I wanted to share with you, as a neighbor, that our whole community is really involved in this quest to conquer norovirus.
Protecting Dark Skies Around Observatory Park
Board of Supervisors passes zoning ordinance gently limiting lighting within half mile of Turner Farm Park Observatory.
Among the board-approved action items on Nov. 21 was the Zoning Ordinance amendment regarding outdoor lighting around Turner Farm Park Observatory in Great Falls.
One Juvenile Passenger Has Died
One of the juvenile passengers from the Nov. 20, 2023 crash on Pioneer Lane in McLean has died from injuries sustained in the crash, according to a police report on Nov. 27.
Nutcracker Dec. 9-10 at CVHS
The Mia Saunders School of Ballet (MSB) returns to the Centreville High School stage to celebrate the 29th anniversary production of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, on Dec. 9 and 10, 2023
Footprints on the Sands of Time
Maybe it’s the contemplations of my impending retirement or maybe it is because of the richness of the life I have been privileged to live that I have become more aware of and more impressed by the women and men I meet in my community and in the political arena.
Tale of Two Independent Bookstores
Shoppers support small business Saturday.
When one shops at a small business, it helps the local economy and the environment. Interest in indie bookstores is thriving as small businesses, according to Statista 2023. After a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of independent bookstores in the United States will reach an all-time high in 2023 at 2,599, reports Statista.
Reston Town Center Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting 2023
Good neighbor volunteers are the sparkle.
Reston Town Center launched the season, celebrating on Friday, Nov. 24, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., with the annual Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting.
Madison Tops Westfield
The Westfield Bulldogs (9-3) traveled to Vienna for a Regional Final game with the Madison Warhawks (11-1) on Nov. 25. The two conference rivals are also two of the most successful programs in the region.
Encore Performers Present ‘Santa’s Special Delivery’
Dazzling songs and dances in a holiday-themed story.
Filled with the joy and wonder of the holiday season, Encore Theatrical Arts Project presents “Santa’s Special Delivery.” This Broadway-style extravaganza features some 30 performers, creative choreography, elaborate sets, colorful costumes and nearly two dozen musical numbers.
Where to Give for Local impact
There are literally thousands of ways to give locally. Here are a few ideas. Please let us know what we have missed and any corrections. Send corrections or updates to mkimm@connectionnewspapers.com with “Give Locally” in the subject line.
Switch to Battery Powered Leaf Blower (or a Rake)
In an effort to reduce the county's carbon footprint, the Park Authority and Department of Public Works and Environmental Services plan to set an example by cutting their use of gas-powered leaf blowers in half over the next year.
Robert ‘Old Folks’ Dawkins
Founder of African American Hall of Fame dies at 83.
“He did so much in furtherance of recognizing others and never took credit for it.” — The Hon. Nolan Dawkins of his brother Robert
FCPD Searching for Stolen French Bulldog
Detectives from FCPD Criminal Investigation Division are seeking the community’s assistance to locate a stolen french bulldog.
Opinion: Virginia Program Offers Tax Credits for Donations
Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program for Education
Tax Credit
Letter in Alexandria: Student Walkout In Support of Palestine; How to Define Genocide
Letter to the Editor
Gum Springs 190 Founders Day Gala
Gum Springs Gala celebrates 190 years since community’s founding
Gum Springs
Tuesday, November 28
Impact of Fairfax’s High Rental Costs and Low Income
Validity of the point-in-time count
Rents out of control
Monday, November 27
Luette Goodbody Semmes, 96
Service at Saint Francis Church in Potomac on Dec. 9, 2023 at 2 p.m. with a reception afterwards.
Obituary
Wednesday, November 22
How to Survive an Active Shooting
Roundups
Fundraiser for Britepaths, Nov. 28, in Fairfax
News Briefs
Civil War Christmas at Fort Ward
News Briefs
Happy Thanksgiving 2023
There are so many complexities and challenges in the world in which we live that it is important to take some time to reflect on the good things that are going on in our families, communities and the world for which we need to be thankful.
Centreville Motorcycle Crash Kills Lorton Man, 27
A crash between a car and a motorcycle last week took the life of a 27-year-old Lorton man.
Police Seeking Help Identifying Armed Robbers
Fairfax County police detectives are releasing two photos from a commercial robbery last Saturday, Nov. 18, in Chantilly and are asking for the community’s assistance in identifying the people responsible for this crime.
Capacity Challenge at McLean ES Forces Boundary Changes
Staff recommends Scenario B to school board.
Fairfax County Public School staff has recommended to the school board Scenario B for the boundary adjustment to provide capacity relief to Kent Gardens Elementary School in McLean.
The 2023 Holiday Ornament Sale in Great Falls
Supplies are limited.
The 2023 Holiday Ornament Sale in Great Falls- Supplies limited; purchase now.This year marks the 210th anniversary of the historic Georgetown Pike. The Great Falls Citizens Association partnered with The Arts of Great Falls to create and sell an exceptional ornament to commemorate the milestone. It is the second in the series.
Clifton Holiday Homes Tour and Horse Parade
The festivities begin Saturday, Dec. 2, at 2 p.m. with a colorful horse parade, followed by the Holiday Homes Tour from 4-7 p.m.
Capital Art & Craft Festival
The largest-ever Capital Art & Craft Festival returns to Northern Virginia Dec. 8-10, 2023 with more than 300 juried artisans taking over two Dulles Expo Center halls.
Reston Museum Puzzle Swap
On Dec. 2, visitors are encouraged to bring a puzzle and leave with a "new to you" puzzle.
Paul VI Annual Food Drive Collected Huge Amounts of Food for Food for Others
Hunger Action Week has drawn to a close, and the St. Paul VI Catholic High School community is celebrating success in its annual food drive benefiting Food for Others.
Economics Deflate Imminent Hopes For Herndon’s Downtown
Project lingers in limbo, but new permits process will be ready.
Economics has always been at the core of the issues delaying the Herndon Downtown Redevelopment Project (2019) between the Town of Herndon and Comstock Herndon Venture LC, according to Bill Ashton, the town’s manager.
Westfield Bulldogs Press on in Playoffs
Yorktown’s season ends in Chantilly.
The Westfield Bulldogs hosted the Yorktown Patriots in Chantilly on Nov. 17 in the Class 6 D Regional semifinal.
Wrapped in the Warmth of Winterwear
Over 1000 served in the Hunter Mill District’s Free Winter Coat Closet 2023.
Partnering with the Hunter Mill District Supervisor's Office, nonprofit Cornerstones supported the Hunter Mill District Winter Coat Closet for 2023.
MPO Travis Heiden: Officer of the Quarter
MPO Travis Heiden was recently honored as the Sully District Police Station’s Officer of the Quarter for July, August and September. He was feted at the Oct. 11 meeting of the station’s Citizens Advisory Committee.
Bald Eagles Spotted on Their Nest
The mated pair of Bald Eagles in Great Falls have once again been spotted on their nest on Minnehaha Island, seen from Riverbend Park.
Correcting 2 Points from Veterans Day Article
I write to correct two points from your article on the Veterans Day observance at the Great Falls Freedom Memorial in your November 15-21, 2023 edition.
Recognizing Pedestrian Safety as a Public Health Concern
On average, there are 172 crashes involving pedestrians every year in Fairfax County and Black and Hispanic people are both injured and killed at more than double the rate of white people. — Fairfax County Health Department
Forever Friends
Lawhorne, Knoernschild honored in Del Ray.
“This community literally would not be what it has become without people like Dana and Tommy.” — Del Ray resident Gayle Reuter
A Whole New World
Momentum Collective’s Aladdin JR a magical success.
“Kids from different backgrounds came together in this production.” — Momentum Collective founder Jason Ellis
Tuesday, November 21
Children’s and Teen’s Connection
Children’s and Teen’s Connection
Thursday, November 16
Potomac Home Sales: October, 2023
In October, 2023, 27 Potomac homes sold between $2,125,000-$738,000.
Potomac Home Sales: October, 2023
Wednesday, November 15
SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR
SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Housing Prices Send People Packing Out of Fairfax County
Some with incomes in the five figures find alternatives down I-95.
Relocating
Smith Reelected as Sully Supervisor
In last week’s election for Sully District supervisor, Democratic incumbent Kathy Smith beat Republican challenger Keith Elliott.
Is the Fix In? Don’t Do It!
On changes to the Single Family Housing code.
On Nov. 1, the contest for the 2024 local Alexandria elections began.
Inaugural ‘Let Me Run’ 5K in Great Falls
It was an inspiring Saturday morning Nov. 4 as Great Falls Elementary hosted the inaugural "Let Me Run” Elementary 5K Race.
‘Tis the Season
The Closet’s Annual Everything Christmas Sale
The Closet of Greater Herndon opened the doors to its annual Everything Christmas Sale on Friday afternoon, Nov. 10.
Joyful Ribbon Cutting on a Cold, Brisk Day
Route 28 widening in Centreville is nearly done.
Area motorists may now rejoice because the road has been widened from four to six lanes between the bridge over Bull Run (south of Compton Road), at the Prince William County line, and the Route 29 Interchange in Centreville.
Veterans Day 2023
Observance at the Great Falls Freedom Memorial
“The willingness with which young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars are treated and appreciated by their nation,” — Bruce Fein, Lieutenant Colonel U.S. Army Reserves
Veterans Day 2023
Coming together “to honor generations of women and men who have served and sacrificed.”
In the Town of Herndon, members of the Wayne M. Kidwell American Legion Post 184 members started their day’s observance at dawn.
Madison Defeats Langley, Continues March
Brothers score five TDs between them.
The Madison Warhawks hosted the visiting Langley Saxons on Nov. 10 in Vienna for a first round football playoff game.
Great Falls Rugby Tournament Nov. 19
Great Falls will be a busy place on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
Residents, Scouts Fill WFCM’S Food Pantry
On Saturday, Nov. 4, Boy Scouts in the Sully District collected 50,416 pounds of food for Western Fairfax Christian Ministries’ food pantry in Chantilly.
Latinoamérica, Tierra Querida!
An enchanting evening of Latin American music and culture with the Brass Band of Northern Virginia! Under the direction of Dr. Brian Bowman
Service Project at Monticello Park
Join the Audubon Society of Northern Virginia for its second worksession of service in Monticello Park this Sunday, Nov. 19, 1-3 p.m.
Bailey Resigns School Board
Former councilmember to step down Nov. 30.
“This is not a decision I made lightly.” — School Board member Willie Bailey on his resignation
Interfaith Walk for Peace
Community gathers to walk and pray for peace.
“How do we live with war and peace at the same time, with love and hatred at the same time?” — Rabbi Steven Rein
Hunger Is Closer Than You Think
Food For Neighbors celebrates Its seventh anniversary and over 425,000 pounds of donations
Food
Name Change for W. T. Woodson High School
Intentionally uplifting people who were held down.
Woodson name
Thursday, November 9
Honoring Veterans
Christman to keynote ceremony at Rocky Versace Plaza.
Christman to keynote ceremony at Rocky Versace Plaza.
United Community Asks for Help
United Community Asks for Help
Virginia Dems: Blue Wall in Both Houses
One Republican Supervisor-elect, zero Republican-endorsed school board member-elects
Election
Senate Election Results
Election
Wednesday, November 8
News Briefs: Tree Lighting Ceremony
News Briefs
Dementia Caregivers Conference on Friday
Join the Northern Virginia Dementia Care Consortium this Friday, Nov. 10, from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., for its 37th annual Family Caregiver Conference.
Route 29 Northbound Bicycle and Pedestrian Shared-use Path Opens
Improves safety, connectivity, and mobility.
Nov.19 is World Day of Remembrance 2023 for road traffic victims.
Military Appreciation Monday for Navy SEAL Foundation
The Nov. 13 Military Appreciation Monday (MAM) dinner will be supporting the Navy SEAL Foundation
McLean Community Players Present ‘Proof’
This weekend at the Great Falls Grange
McLean Community Players Present Proof by David Auburn- This weekend at the Great Falls Grange
Life-changing, Women's Club of Great Falls Scholarship Fund
Fall Soiree awards held.
Life-changing Women's Club of Great Falls Scholarship Fund.- Fall Soiree awards held.
Westfield High’s Cappies play is ‘Miss Holmes’
What if Sherlock and his assistant were women?
Detective Sherlock Holmes and his assistant are both literary legends. But in Westfield High’s upcoming Cappies play, they’re portrayed as women, for an intriguing new spin on the story.
Female Olympic Rowers Break Barriers to Win
Centreville High presents ‘Girls in the Boat’
Centreville High’s upcoming play, “Girls in the Boat,” tells the stories of the U.S. women’s Olympic rowing team as it breaks down barriers for women in sports and eventually wins its first gold medal.
McLean Park Police Officer Charged in Fatal Shooting
Detectives from FCPD Major Crimes Bureau are investigating a reported unintentional shooting by an off-duty U.S. Park Police officer in McLean that left one man dead.
South Lake Seahawks Remain Undefeated
Westfield led with 4:30 to play in the 4th quarter, but South Lakes scored on a 65-yard TD and held off Westfield to take the 28-24 nailbiter.
The Westfield Bulldogs (7-2) took on the unbeaten South Lakes Seahawks (9-0) on Nov. 3 in Reston.
Well Heeled
The Shoe Hive celebrates 20 years.
“This was not very thought out – it was all very spontaneous and here we are 20 years later.” — The Shoe Hive owner Elizabeth Todd
A Novel Idea
Book vending machine unveiled at Naomi L. Brooks Elementary.
“This is a remarkable addition to our school.” — Naomi L. Brooks principal Suzanne Hess
23rd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Parade viewing areas along one mile of the Old Town Alexandria waterfront
Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk on Dec. 2
During Alexandria’s Biggest Holiday Weekend, celebrate the return of top signature events, including the 52nd Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade in historic Old Town Alexandria at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023.
2023 Is A Year for New Business
From martial arts studios to swim schools and home fixtures, 2023 has seen many new businesses open in the Mount Vernon and Springfield areas.
County’s Hypothermia Prevention Program Opens Dec. 1
2023 homelessness statistics show 10 percent increase in people experiencing homelessness at the Point in Time count.
Hypothermia
Stuff the Bus, Virtually
Stuff the Bus, Virtually
Blessed with Diversity
Annual Fairfax County history conference inspires with a growing “tapestry that celebrates all nations.”
History Awards
Friday, November 3
Franconia District School Board Candidate Back on the Ballot
Candidate, Dems, and GOP respond to last minute court ruling and reversal.
On Wednesday evening, Nov. 1, the Fairfax County Office of Elections requalified Fairfax County Franconia District School Board Candidate Marcia C. St. John-Cunning based on a ruling by the Fairfax County Circuit Court that afternoon. A Fairfax County judge allowed two additional petition sheets to count toward St. John-Cunning’s required signature threshold to be a qualified candidate.
Wednesday, November 1
Candidate Connection: Senate Candidates
Candidate Connection: Senate Candidates
Arlington Leaf Collection: The Plan for Fall
Arlington collects about 50,000 cubic yards of leaves every year.
Fairfax Hires First Deputy City Manager
Valmarie Turner is a welcome addition to Fairfax City government.
Fairfax City has hired its first-ever deputy city manager.
Now Is a Good Time To Vote!
In a time filled with much turmoil, challenges, and seemingly insurmountable obstacles, it’s easy to get disheartened and wonder if voting is even worth it.
Candidate Connection: Senate District 39
We asked candidates for a brief bio and to tell us about their interaction with a voter whose questions or story inspired them to take action.
Early Voting Continues Through Saturday, Nov. 4
Those who wait until the last minute to vote do so at their peril.
Voting
Bark Social Acquires Barkhaus in Alexandria
news briefs
New Executive Director for Heard
empowering people in need through artistic expression and life skills, has a new Executive Director, Kelly Carnes.
National Park Service User Survey Comes to an End
Paved Trails Study looks at six trail networks in metro area including Mount Vernon.
This fall, the National Park Service gathered information for the Mount Vernon trail improvements as part of the “Paved Trails Study” in the National Capital Region that included the George Washington Memorial Parkway, C&O Canal National Historic Park, the Potomac Heritage Trail, Rock Creek Park trails and others in the National Mall and Historic Parks area.
Community Fills ACPD Truck for Arlington Unsheltered
This essentials drive is one of a series of community events hosted by the Community Engagement Division of the ACPD. Other events include the Christmas toy drive, the back-to-school supplies collection in the fall and the non-perishable food drive for AFAC which provides supplemental groceries to Arlington’s low-income families.
To the Rescue
“The work Willie does here on behalf of the fire department supports those in need in the community.” — Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk
About The Election
On Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 7, all Arlington polling places are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. You must vote at your assigned location.
New Coats Distributed to Families in Need
“Building resilient and sustainable communities takes all of us in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors working together.” — Amelia Chasse Alcivar of Hilco Redevelopment Partners
“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.
School Board Candidate Disqualified from Ballot
Write-in campaign underway for Dem-endorsed candidate
An aggressive write-in campaign is underway for Democratic-endorsed school board candidate Marcia St. John-Cunning, @marcia4schools, who is still running to be the Franconia District School Board Member.
Interfaith Alliance Honors Moline
Faith and Freedom Award recognizes work for religious freedoms.
“Jack’s fierce dedication to our Constitution and to the rights of all people have inspired so many of us who are committed to building a country where all belong.” — Interfaith Alliance CEO Rev. Paul Raushenbush
Go Vote
More than 64,000 voters have already voted, but more than 650,000 active voters have not voted.
A slight shift in the vote in Fairfax County's midterm elections on Nov. 7 could determine which party controls Virginia and what legislation is passed. The potential ramifications could be far-reaching, positioning the 2024 election on abortion and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin's (R) national prospects.
A Page a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
180 shoppers arrive in the first five minutes of the Arlington Public Library book sale.
“It’s wild, very exciting. The dealers are first in the door with a plan and a mission and know what they are looking for.” — Peter Petruski, Division Chief of Collections and Access, Arlington Public Library
Candidate Connection: House of Delegates
Candidates were asked to provide a short bio and share a story of their interaction with a voter that led them to a commitment to take action, with a tight word limit.
‘Cornerstones of Community’ Honored
Cornerstones Honored Three Retiring Elected Officials on October 26th
“Cornerstones of Our Community” were the focus at the Hyatt Regency Reston Oct. 26, celebrating Cornerstones’ work, impact and future projects. The event also honored special individuals for their extraordinary service to the community.
Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, Nov. 11-18
Both hunger and homelessness are on the rise.
The National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger designate the week before Thanksgiving as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. And while you might think that’s not really needed here in one of the nation’s wealthiest counties, you would be wrong.
VolunteerFest 2023
Much good in a single day.
The 2023 VolunteerFest, the signature event of Volunteer Fairfax, took place on Saturday, Oct. 21, and drew an impressive turnout of more than 400 dedicated volunteers completing 26 projects with community support.
LOOK Dine-In Cinemas Opens in Reston
A different cinema experience
Come for any or all: what’s on the big screen, the restaurant food and drinks, or to chill for a bit and enjoy the view from the balcony overlooking Market Street.
Fairfax High Presents ‘Romeo and Juliet’
A fresh, new take on a classic love story.
Featuring a cast and crew of nearly 60, Fairfax High is presenting “Romeo and Juliet.” But this version is set in a different time period than the original and has a surprising amount of humor.
Parking-Spot Dispute Leads to Shooting
Fairfax County police are investigating a non-fatal shooting that happened in Centreville last Thursday, Oct. 26, in The Meadows community.
Costumes, Cruisers and Candy at Trunk-or-Treat
Fairfax County police held their fourth annual Halloween Trunk or Treat at the county Government Center
Fairfax County police held their fourth annual Halloween Trunk or Treat at the county Government Center
American Legion Post 184 Recognizes Giant Food at Northpoint
20 years of support.
The Wayne M. Kidwell American Legion Post 184 Herndon-Reston recently acknowledged their enduring friendship with its neighboring community establishment, Giant Store # 0747, at Northpoint Shopping Center in Reston.
City Is Failing Old Town Residents
On Dec. 5 the Alexandria Planning Commission will be asked to approve four audacious exceptions so the developer of 301 N. Fairfax can maximize his profits by building an architecturally bland, modernist condominium one block from City Hall and Founder’s Park. The plan is visibly out of place among the historic 18th, 19th and 20th century homes that would surround it.
Chantilly FB Has Tough Visit to Westfield
The Chantilly Chargers visited the Westfield Bulldogs on Oct. 23 in Chantilly.
Let Me Run 5K Nov. 4
Great Falls Elementary School PTA will hold an inaugural 5K for the new boys running club called “Let Me Run.”
Lorton District Police Station and Animal Shelter Open
Residents tour and celebrate
The Lorton area saw another significant opening on Oct. 28.
Strong Bonds Form with Animals
A look at those special relationships
Pets in all their many shapes, sizes and species, can establish a connection with their human caretakers, creating strong bonds.
New Culpepper Food Pantry Shows Off Hands On Art
Culpepper Garden has not had a permanent pantry to serve its residents facing food insecurity. Now a grant of $2,700 from Field to Table has allowed Culpepper Garden to build a permanent food pantry which will be stocked with supplemental non-perishable groceries made available to Culpepper residents.
Alexandria City High School Evacuated Due to Bomb Threat
Just before noon on Wednesday, Nov. 1, students and staff at the Alexandria City High School King Street campus were evacuated in response to a bomb threat received by Alexandria City Public Schools.
Agreement on Coal Tar Contamination
Caused by gas plant from late 1800s through mid-1900s near corner of North Lee Street and Oronoco Street
The City of Alexandria, in partnership with the Potomac Riverkeeper Network (PRKN), has reached a settlement to remediate the remnants of coal tar contamination that occurred as part of the operation of the Alexandria Town Gas manufacturing gas plant from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s, located near the corner of North Lee Street and Oronoco Street.
Alexandria City Council Poised to Eliminate Single-Family Neighborhoods
The Alexandria City Council is preparing to implement wide-ranging changes to the City’s zoning code that would effectively eliminate single-family neighborhoods in Alexandria.
Carmichael Elected to Nation’s Criminal Defense Bar
Jessica N. Carmichael of Alexandria was one of two individuals elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Association’s fall board meeting in Washington, DC.
Learning to Love Amphibians and Reptiles
They may not be cuddly, charismatic or cute to many humans, but amphibians and reptiles are fascinating and important.
