Saturday, June 30
Severe Storms Rock Region; 1.5 Million Homes Without Power
Virginia Governor announces State of Emergency.
Following the aftermath of last night's surprise thunderstorms, many local residents woke up to significant amount of damage. Fallen trees and branches were spread across the area, and power outages were abundant.
Friday, June 29
Weekly Entertainment (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
June 29-July 6.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Classified Advertising
Read the latest Classifieds and Employments ads!
Thursday, June 28
Fairfax County’s ‘Little Gem’
The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum hosts Civil War Reenactment.
On Saturday, Aug. 25 and Sunday, Aug. 26, a Civil War Reenactment Commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Medical Evacuation of wounded soldiers will be held at the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
Lorton Man Pleads Guilty to Prostituting Eight Juveniles
Justin Strom, 26, among five members of Crips gang charged with trafficking juveniles.
Justin Strom, aka "Jae," "Jae Dee," or "J-Dirt," 26, of Lorton pled guilty Tuesday, June 26, to recruiting at least eight juvenile girls to engage in commercial sex for his street gang’s prostitution business.
From Prison to Cultural Center
Lorton Workhouse Arts Center hosts Art Out Loud, Ice Cream Social in July.
For visual arts, performances and education, the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center is the place to be this summer. More than 100 years ago, however, one of the region’s most distinctive cultural arts center started life as a prison complex.
Clifton Teen on a Mission
Noor Siddiqui awarded world-renowned fellowship.
The Thiel Fellowship is a program sponsored by Billionaire Peter Thiel that awards $100,000 to 20 entrepreneurial candidates under the age of 20. Some of the fellows include teenaged biochemists who have their eyes fixed on extending the human life span and curing cancer, and MIT drop-outs who find that their time is best spent harnessing nuclear energy.
Mason Launches Veteran Scholarship
A much-needed $6000 donation helps kick–start the endowment into gear.
Joshua Lawton, a now senior program analyst at the Department of Veterans Affairs, was watching a documentary on the WWII generation when an idea suddenly struck him—George Mason University (his university at the time) should start a veterans’ scholarship.
Erin Greer Mealy Engaged to Matthew David Clark
Rick and Peggy Mealy of Clifton are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter, Erin Greer Mealy, to 1LT Matthew David Clark, U.S. Army, son of David and AnnMarie Clark of Fairfax. The couple graduated from Robinson Secondary School, Fairfax, in 2004.
Wednesday, June 27
Party Like It’s 1776
City of Fairfax Hosts 46th Star-Spangled Fourth of July Celebration.
Since 1776, Americans have celebrated our independence from the tyranny of King George III with parades, picnics and booming fireworks.
‘Big Love’ Next for Hub Theatre
"A roller coaster of fun and emotion" is how Hub Theatre Artistic Director Helen Pafumi described its next production, "Big Love" by Charles Mee. "An enduring and epic love story. It’s about conquering our basic needs and embracing our better selves. And it tackles these difficult discussions with theatricality, poetry, and power," Pafumi said.
A Story of Courage and Survival
Fairfax mother, son overcome life-threatening illnesses.
Natanael Justiniano is just 11 years old, yet he’s beaten leukemia twice and just celebrated his one-year anniversary of a lifesaving blood transplant.
Chessie’s Big Backyard Opens for Summer Fun
Fun-seekers can play, explore and splash around at Lee District Park.
Sunny skies greeted hundreds of children and their families during the June 16 ribbon-cutting ceremony for Chessie's Big Backyard Tiki Village playground, part of the Family Recreation Center at Lee District Park.
Sock Monkeys Fan?
Welcome to Lee District nights summer concerts.
From jazz to big band, classic to blue bluegrass, and some vintage rock ‘n roll, Lee District Nights is the place for music lovers of all stripes.
Hitting on the Sweet Spot of Summer
One of the most beloved summer pastimes is all over Fairfax.
Tennis is everywhere in Fairfax this summer. As the weather starts heating up and the days get longer, more and more people are flocking to the courts to get their adrenaline fix, work on their backhand swing or just have fun with friends and neighbors. Whatever the reason people grab for their racquets it is clear that the opportunities for tennis players are everywhere.
Connolly Addresses 280 New Citizens
"You will help freshen America and help us remain a strong and dynamic society," Congressman Gerry Connolly told hundreds of new U.S. citizens and their families June 22 during a naturalization ceremony in a packed auditorium at Robinson High School.
Column: A GAP In My Thinking
Recently, due to circumstances beyond my control, I was forced to buy a new car (in this instance, “new” means different, not a current model year). Estimated repairs at 137,000 miles that could have escalated into the unknown – and unaffordable – thousands compelled me to fish so I wouldn’t have my bait cut (and I don’t even like to fish).
Tuesday, June 26
Editorial: Case Closed. Why the Secrecy?
No reason for police to exercise "blanket" approach, shielding every document in every case.
Connection readers know that we respect and appreciate our public safety professionals.
Monday, June 25
Even in Closed Cases, Police Maintain Culture of Secrecy
Public must rely on information police agencies choose to share, even if it's wrong.
In December of 2008, the Fairfax Police Department chased 19-year-old Hailu Brook across the county line into Arlington and shot him dead.
Friday, June 22
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
June 22-29.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Thursday, June 21
Workhouse Arts Center Improves New Glass Hot Shop
The Workhouse Arts Center received a $55,000 donation on Wednesday, June 13 to improve and grow its new glass hot shop.
Celebrate Summer with Family and Friends
Block Party at the Workhouse…Celebrate summer with a day of community events at the Workhouse Arts Center on Saturday, June 23 from 3-7 p.m. Come out and enjoy the weekend with family activities, music, a community resource tent, food from some of Lorton’s most popular restaurants and, of course, art.
Week in Fairfax
News in Fairfax.
County Board Objects to ‘Transit Funding Game’
Local leaders say policy shift disruptive, costly.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors strongly criticized a McDonnell administration plan to overhaul the way it handles transportation funding, calling the move politically-motivated "funding games."
People, Places and Programs
This week in Fairfax County.
The Virginia Transit Association (VTA) awarded Sharon Bulova, Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, "Public Official of the Year" at its annual awards ceremony in Fairfax on June 13.
‘Tomorrow Is Up to Us,’ Woodson Graduates Told
W. T. Woodson High School graduates its senior class.
Parents and friends settled into their seats just before 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, all eager to watch the seniors of W. T. Woodson High School become graduates.
Strong Leaders and Great Followers
Robinson’s Class of 2012 graduates.
The seniors enjoyed their last few hours as Robinson students at their graduation ceremony reminiscing about old memories and new beginnings. On May 14, in the Patriot Center at George Mason University, Robinson Secondary School’s class of 2012, their teachers and parents said goodbye.
Fairfax Board Objects to Governor’s Transit Funding Game
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors signed a regional letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Connaughton on Tuesday, June 19, objecting to the administration’s attempt to circumvent the efficient transit funding system used successfully in Northern Virginia for decades.
Fitness Center Members Receive Lifesaving Award
On June 18, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Ed Brinkley presented Life Saving certificates to Mary Butler, Damian Hawkins, Nick Taktak, Sandy Weaver, Minh Huynh and Chuck Wright for their efforts to help save the life of fellow Fairfax County employee Gary Oswald on Feb. 24.
Classified Advertising
Read the latest Employment, Home and Garden and Classified ads!
Wednesday, June 20
Column: Where To Begin?
I realize this admission may sound weird, but having cancer is boring. Don’t get me wrong, I’m lucky to be alive, and quite happy about it, too. But waiting for the other shoe to drop, i.e. some bad cancer news to appear (lab work, scan, advisory from my oncologist), is tiresome because it’s always so worrisome.
First County Shelter Becoming ‘Residences at Mondloch’
Mondloch House undergoes renovation, will include 20 affordable housing units.
Fairfax County’s focus on ending homelessness took a step forward this month when the county began renovating its first ever homeless shelter - Mondloch House - to increase housing opportunities for single adults.
Tuesday, June 19
Local Real Estate: Sold $575,000~$599,999 in April 2012
Local Real Estate: Sold $575,000~$599,999 in April 2012
Making the Most of Summer
Advice for planning warm weather activities for children.
"I’m bored, there’s nothing to do," is a phrase often uttered by children during the summer. The end of the school year leaves many parents scrambling for activities to keep their young ones active and stimulated. Experts say it is important to plan activities to keep children safe and out of trouble.
Editorial: Summer Projects
Reader input needed for community guides, Pet Connection.
The summer is in full swing at the Connection, with many interns and staff members focused on some light and some more serious summer projects.
Monday, June 18
Bruins' Postseason Soccer Run Ends at State Semis
After tough start to season, Lake Braddock emerged as region power.
Lake Braddock Secondary's dramatic turnaround boys' soccer season in which the Bruins won just two of their first nine games before emerging as a Patriot District and Northern Region force the remainder of the spring campaign came to a tough ending last Friday afternoon, June 8 at Westfield High School when the local squad lost its Virginia State AAA semifinals playoff game by penalty kicks to opponent Albemarle High of Charlottesville, 2-1.
Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton Home Sales: May, 2012
In May 2012, 105 homes sold between $1,800,000-$140,000 in the Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton area.
Clifton, Fairfax Station and Lorton Home Sales in May, 2012
Friday, June 15
Father's Day Photo Gallery 2012
We asked our readers to send in pictures in honor of Father's Day on Sunday, June 17. Here are their submissions.
Thursday, June 14
Calendar (Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield)
June 15-22.
Entertainment in Burke/Fairfax/Lorton/Springfield.
Lorton Community Action Center Gains Recognition
LCAC programs provide food, clothing, and emergency services to families in need.
The Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) has been selected to be featured in the 2012-13 Catalogue for Philanthropy of Greater Washington.
Robinson, South County Win One Cappie Each
Robinson and South County secondary schools won one Cappie each at Sunday night’s 13th annual Cappie Awards at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Student Talent on Display
Fairfax Academy holds annual Creative Works Showcase.
Students in the Fairfax Academy displayed their signature projects last Tuesday, June 5, during the annual Creative Works Showcase. They sang, danced, played music, showed films they’d made and displayed their graphic-art, fashion, foreign language and photography skills.
End-of-the-Year Art Show at Woodson High
On June 6, Woodson High School’s art students of all grades showcased their artwork for the community at the Woodson’s annual end-of-the-year Art Show. Senior art students enjoyed their last high school art show, while others experienced their first public showing.
Rogers Leads Lake Braddock to State Baseball Title
Junior left-hander throws four-hit shutout, hits home run.
Lake Braddock captured the first baseball state championship in school history with a 4-0 victory against Kellam on June 9 at Westfield High School.
Robinson Boys Reach Semifinals
Rams defeat Mount Vernon in penalty-kick shootout.
Thanks to memories from practices with his club team, Robinson goalkeeper Josh Penn stepped up and sent the Rams boys' soccer team to the region semifinals.
Wednesday, June 13
Classified Advertising
Read the latest Employment, Classified and Home and Garden Ads!
Editorial: Partnerships That Make a Difference
Strategic partnerships with businesses, community organizations, benefit public good and fill gaps since government cannot do it all.
A few weeks ago, the Connection was lucky enough to be included in a group of Fairfax County organizations honored for their efforts in giving back to the community.
Staving Off Mosquitoes
Chemical-free methods for controlling backyard pests.
Nothing spoils a backyard barbecue like a swarm of bloodthirsty mosquitoes. How does one keep bugs at bay without harsh chemicals? Local experts offer tips.
Trends in Landscape Design
Local tastemakers offer suggestions for making the most of backyard space.
Whether creating a tapestry of bold colors, a sanctuary to escape stress or simply a low maintenance landscape, local designers say taking a backyard from dull to dazzling is easier than one might think, and offer insight into hottest landscape elements as well as trends in sustainable design.
Column: Apparent, Now More Than Ever
I last celebrated my father’s day six years ago, in 2006. Six months later, in early December, he finally succumbed to that which had been ailing him: old age for sure, the effects of two strokes for certain and the realization that it was, as we like to say in our family: “Enough already.”
The Father Factor
Fairfax County’s "Fathers In Touch" program teaches men how to be fathers.
Calvin Robertson slams his fist down on the table and barks instructions to the 11 fathers seated around the table at the South Gate Community Center in Reston.
Learning from His Father’s Mistakes
Growing up estranged from his own father, one man decides to give his sons a different life.
Wanting the best for my two sons yet having concerns about raising them properly, my wife and I looked into various parenting education programs offered through Fairfax County. This is how I discovered the Fathers In Touch Program.
Friday, June 8
Planning Delays Vote on Dog Park
The Fairfax County Planning Commission voted May 31 to defer a final vote on the proposed Interim Off Leash Dog Park (OLDA) for Westgrove Park until July 19.
Thursday, June 7
West Springfield Upsets Lake Braddock for Region Baseball Title
Senior pitcher Tobin leads Spartans to victory with 8 1/3-inning effort.
Tyler Tobin shut down the Lake Braddock lineup in an extra-inning affair, leading West Springfield to a 3-2, nine-inning victory and the Northern Region baseball championship at Madison High School.
Author, Senior Columnist, Radio Commentator to Speak at RWC Meeting
The Republican Women of Clifton (RWC) will feature Dr. Ileana Johnson speaking about and signing her recently published book Freedom on Life Support at its June 18 meeting. The event will be at the Centreville High School Media Center. Members and guests are invited to the social hour that will begin at 7 p.m. when refreshments will be served.
Letter: Endorsing Moran
Letter to the Editor
As someone who is active in the community and the democratic candidate for delegate from Virginia’s 42nd district in last year’s election, I offer my enthusiastic endorsement of Congressman Jim Moran in the democratic primary on June 12.
Fridy Named Volunteer of the Year
Giving the community an event they can be proud of.
Each year the Board of Directors for Celebrate Fairfax, Inc. honor one outstanding volunteer worker with the Volunteer of the Year Award. This year’s recipient, Scott Fridy (Chantilly), has been volunteering in Fairfax County for nearly 20 years and he helps coordinate the reveled "Children's Avenue" sponsored by ExxonMobil.
Mulan Delights Crowds in Northern Virginia Players Production
Northern Virginia Players performed to sellout crowds during a two-week run of Disney’s Mulan Jr. at Burke Community Church. The production featured 64 actors ranging in age from 6 to 18, said Ann Eul, the show’s co-director along with Kate Wittig. "This was an amazing production," Wittig said.
Celebrate Fairfax Honors 2012 ‘Lords and Ladies’
Honorees saluted for community volunteerism.
Celebrate Fairfax kicked off its 30th anniversary with a salute to the 2012 Lord and Lady Fairfax Honorees during a dinner and awards ceremony at the Fairfax County Government Center Tuesday, June 5.
In Region Soccer Title Game, Robinson Boys Prevail
Yardley's overtime goal lifts Rams past local rival Lake Braddock.
In a tense, back and forth championship game last Saturday night at Robinson Secondary, local high school boys' soccer opponents Robinson and Lake Braddock played with emotion, grit, and determination through an entire 80 minutes of regulation play and nearly 10 more minutes of overtime before the region title game's first and only goal was scored.
Patriot District Well-Represented at Baseball Region Semis
Bruins, Spartans both win to advance to title game.
A trip to the Northern Region tournament title game and a seeding in the state playoffs were on the line last Wednesday evening, May 30 at Madison High School in Vienna where two regional semifinals baseball games took place. The double-header postseason action showcased contests between Lake Braddock and Westfield, followed by West Springfield versus Langley in the nightcap. At night's end, it was the two teams from the Patriot District - Lake Braddock and West Springfield - which won, both in decisive fashion, to earn a spot in Saturday's finals where West Springfield edged the Bruins, 3-2, for the championship.
Wednesday, June 6
The Power of Touch
Reiki masters credit the practice with promoting healing.
"May I touch you?" asks Marion Werner, a willowy woman with shoulder-length blonde hair. Her hands descend lightly on her patient’s chest.
Editorial: Primary Voting
Statewide primary on Tuesday, June 12.
On Tuesday, June 12, Virginia will hold a statewide Republican primary for U.S. Senate, plus numerous more local primaries for U.S. House of Representatives and localities.
Classified Advertising
Read the latest Employment and Classified Ads!
Column: Haven’t I Learned Anything?
I’m not going to beat myself up too badly; after all, I do have terminal cancer. However, I am disappointed in my behavior of late, especially as it relates to my status as a still-active (thank God!) cancer patient/survivor undergoing treatment.
Tuesday, June 5
Fairfax County Board Expands Scope of Community Services Board Audit
Social service agency scrutinized for projected $9 million shortfall that threatens services to children and disabled.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved a motion Tuesday, June 5, to expand the scope of a financial audit for the Falls Church Community Services Board, which provides social services to thousands of the county’s most vulnerable residents and has come under fire for an $8 million budget shortfall.
Friday, June 1
Weather Alert: Fairfax County, Entire National Capital Area (Friday, June 1, 2012)
Severe Weather to Impact Area; Tornado Watch Until 9 p.m.
The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch until 9 p.m. for Fairfax County and the entire National Capital Area. Thunderstorms, heavy rains, wind, large hail and potential flooding are also expected beginning this afternoon.
Burke Honors the Fallen
Down a private road, just off the heavily-traveled Burke Centre Parkway, about 30 people gathered under the shade of a large Oak tree Monday to honor those who sacrificed their lives defending our freedoms.
‘Mulan’ Comes to Burke
Northern Virginia Players present Disney classic.
Northern Virginia Players will perform Disney’s "Mulan Jr." during the production’s final weekend at Burke Community Church.