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
Classified Advertising
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Thursday, June 28
A Resolution For Lanigan
School Board awards almost $73,000 to teacher.
As far as Sean Lanigan is concerned, the nearly $73,000 settlement he was awarded last week by the Fairfax County School Board is too little, too late. But he’s determined to put the past behind him, learn from it and move on.
‘Never Off Duty’
Firefighter reports Centreville blaze, helps rescue woman.
Bill Moreland, a captain with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, didn’t make it to a dinner date with his wife, last Friday. But he had a good excuse: He was busy helping save someone’s life.
Mueller, Layne Engaged
Mr. and Mrs. Bill Mueller of Clifton are happy to announce the engagement of their son, LCDR William Kenneth Mueller, USNR to Ramona Ruth Layne, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Layne, Jr of San Antonio, Texas.
Firefighters Present Lifesaving Award
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Ed Brinkley presented Life Saving certificates on June 18 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.
Lanigan’s Friends, Colleague Respond to Settlement
Following news of the school system’s settlement to Sean Lanigan, a friend and neighbor of his, as well as a former Centre Ridge colleague gave their opinions of it to Centre View.
‘How a Community Comes Together’
A progress report on the Centreville Labor Resource Center.
It still has a long way to go, but things are definitely looking up for the Centreville Labor Resource Center (CLRC).
Marsden Praises Centreville Immigration Forum
At a recent meeting of the Centreville Immigration Forum (CIF), state Sen. Dave Marsden (D-37) listened to a progress report on the Centreville Labor Resource Center (CLRC) and was pleased by what he heard.
Dollars and Sense at Labor Center
Centreville Immigration Forum (CIF) board members Terry Angelotti and Ed Duggan recently presented a report on the financial status of the Centreville Labor Resource Center (CLRC). They project the CIF to receive $175,000 this year from a variety of sources to keep the center running.
Mountain View’s Department Awards
Department Awards.
Centre View Roundups- 6/68/12
Roundups- 6/28/12, Centreville
Replacing Walney Road Bridge
Walney Road Bridge to be replaced, rebuilt.
Built in 1980, the Walney Road Bridge over Flatlick Branch in Chantilly carries more than 21,000 vehicles a day. Trouble is, it often floods, is disintegrating structurally and surpassed its life expectancy 15 years ago.
Wednesday, June 27
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
Retzer Takes Reins at South Lakes
Kim Retzer, South Lakes Class of 1989, named principal.
As a member of South Lakes High School’s Class of 1989 Kim Retzer (nee Brophy) planned on going to law school, majoring in Government and Politics at George Mason. But she began substitute teaching during college, leading to a long term substitute position while a teacher was on maternity leave.
Boy Charged in Frying Pan Slashings
Herndon boy, 17, charged in two animal attacks.
Fairfax County Police arrested and charged a 17-year-old Herndon resident Saturday, June 23 for two slashing attacks on and adjacent to Frying Pan Farm Park.
Herndon Mayor Merkel, New Council Sworn In
2012-14 Herndon Town Council to take office July 1.
The 2012-14 Herndon Town Council, as well as newly elected Mayor Lisa Merkel were sworn in at the Herndon Municipal Center Thursday, June 21. Connie Hutchinson, Sheila Olem and Grace Wolf are returning members, joined by Dave Kirby and Charlie Waddell who return from previous terms on the council and Melissa Jonas, who previously served on the town’s Planning Commission.
Over the Edge
Rappellers raise $60,000 for Special Olympics.
Rose Pleskow is not one to shy away from a challenge. The 23-year-old Reston resident competed in the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens, Greece, last summer, earned multiple medals in the 2012 Virginia Special Olympic Summer Games and recently competed in an 800-meter race in the waters around the Cayman Islands.
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.
Thursday, June 21
Ship Shape?
Fifty boats competed in the 23rd Cardboard Boat Regatta at Lake Accotink Park on June 3 as part of the Springfield Days Celebration
MountainView’s Turbok Wins TurnAround Life Award
At MountainView Alternative High School’s senior luncheon on June 13, Casey Turbok won the $1,000 TurnAround Life Award.
Junior ROTC Medal
Angelica Betts of Providence Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), presented the DAR ROTC Bronze Award on May 12 to Cadet Naadia S.
Support for Needy Kids Program
For the second year in a row, the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office received a donation to its Shop with a Sheriff Program from Montessori of Chantilly – Casa dei Bambini.
Military Notes Center View 6/21/12
Military Notes
Local Author Publishes Novel
“Might and Majesty: Baptism by Fire” is the first book of a new trilogy by Sean Mitchell, a 22-year-old Centreville resident who published the fantasy novel earlier this year through the self-publishing company, CreateSpace.
Grade 5/6 Girls NVYLL 2012 Champions
The SYA 5th/6th Girls B team captured the Northern Virginia Youth Lacrosse League Championship on Sunday, June 10 vs. Fort Hunt.
Principal Jagels: Words of Advice
At the start of Mountain View High’s graduation ceremony, last Friday, June 15, Assistant Principal Gary Morris told the seniors, “Do not follow where the path may lead. Instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail.”
Westfield ESOL Student Thrives
Juan Castro receives School Board’s Character Award.
When Juan Castro came to the U.S. from El Salvador, six years ago, he only spoke a few words of English and was a stranger in a strange place. But he adapted well, learned quickly and worked hard at school and in his community.
Local Businesses Build Playground
Children may now play in a brand-new playground at the SYA youth sports complex, “Fields of Dreams,” off Bull Run Post Office Road in Centreville. It was built by RulyScapes Inc. of Centreville, Denison Landscaping, JK Enterprises and John Deere Landscapes, which all sponsored a recent National Hispanic Landscape Alliance National Day of Service there
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.
Center View Roundups 6/21/12
Pellet Gun Injures Students; Low-Cost Rabies Clinic; Help Plan Centreville Day, Fair Oaks CAC to Meet; Frey at Sully District Council; Park Authority to Meet; Free Carseat Inspections; Parkway Gets New Number
Westfield Thespians Receive Cappie Medallions
Westfield High received 20 Cappie nominations for its musical, “Crazy for You.” On Wednesday, May 30, school Principal Tim Thomas and Director Susie Pike presented the Cappie medallions to the nominees.
Classified Advertising
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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.
Herndon-Monroe Metro Station Design Revised
Public hearing held at Herndon High School.
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and the Washington Metropolitan Airport Authority hosted a public hearing on design refinements to the Dulles Metrorail Phase Two Environmental Assessment Wednesday, June 13 at Herndon High School.
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.
Centreville Home Sales: May, 2012
In May 2012, 96 Centreville homes sold between $710,000-$98,000.
Centreville Home Sales in May, 2012
Monday, June 18
Chantilly Boys Lacrosse Falls in State Lax Finals
Chargers jump out early before Saxons rally for a 12-8 win.
Northern Region high school boys' lacrosse rivals Chantilly and Langley, who in recent years have proven to be the best public school teams in Virginia, met once again for the state crown last Saturday night.
Chantilly Home Sales: May, 2012
In May 2012, 33 homes sold between $780,000-$152,000 in the Chantilly area.
Chantilly 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
Police Arrest Poplar Tree Teacher
Charged with possession of child pornography.
Fairfax County police have charged a special-education teacher at Poplar Tree Elementary with 10 counts of possession of child pornography. He is Robert C. Fenn, 26, of Emerald Chase Drive in Herndon.
Westfield High Garners 10 Cappie Awards
Victories include Best Musical, Actor, Choreography and Orchestra
For the second year in a row, Westfield High won 10 Cappies for a musical production at Sunday night’s 13th annual Cappie Awards Gala at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Joining in Battle Against Cancer
Greenbriar West Elementary Holds Car Wash Fundraiser
The staff at Greenbriar West Elementary held a carwash on Saturday, June 9, to support one of their own; P.E. teacher Leslie Lynk is battling cancer.
Letter: Many Behind Fundraiser’s Success
On May 19, Chantilly National Golf and Country Club hosted their Annual Cancer Fundraiser which was organized by members of the Social Tennis Committee along with many other wonderful volunteers. This year we were able to raise over $3,000 to donate to the American Cancer Society with the help of many local businesses and individuals who contributed gift baskets, gift cards or items for our Silent Auction and Raffle.
Letter: Best Wishes to Mike Campbell
Centreville High School and the CVHS PTSA would like to thank all of the parents, students, staff and faculty who attended the Principal's Open House on Tuesday, May 29, to pass along best wishes to Mike Campbell and his wife, Becky, as Mike prepares to retire from Fairfax County Public Schools.
Breaking Ground for Artificial Turf Field
New Field to Encourage School Sports, Activities, and Healthy Lifestyle
Six months after winning the VHSL Northern Region AAA Division 6 football championship, and returning to the VHSL AAA Division 6 State Championship for the first time in 12 years, Centreville High School celebrated a sports milestone...
Almost Time for Tim Harmon 5K
Charity fund-raiser is June
The 13th annual Tim Harmon Memorial 5K Run/Walk is set for Saturday, June 23, at 8:30 a.m., at the Fairfax County Government Center.
Wednesday, June 13
Dominion Simulates Hurricane
Exercise allows Dominion Power to practice for severe storm events.
Dominion Power hosted a hurricane drill Wednesday, June 6, simulating the effects of fictional Hurricane Joseph and showing how they would manage such a storm. The Herndon headquarters serves about 900,000 customers.
Herndon’s Gardens on Display
Annual garden tour highlights creativity of local gardeners.
The Town of Herndon’s Cultivating Communities initiative will host their annual Garden Tour Sunday, June 24 from noon to 4 p.m. The tour will feature five different stops within the town borders, all representing a variety of approaches to suburban residential gardening.
Staying Safe This Summer
Neighborhood Resource Center hosts safety briefing.
The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department hosted a summer safety briefing Thursday, June 7 at the Neighborhood Resource Center in Herndon. Lt. Bill Vance of Station Four on Spring Street explained some of the more common summer safety hazards.
Classified Advertising
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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.
Saluting Academic Achievement
CPMSAC celebrates 28 years of excellence.
Filing into Chantilly High’s gym, Saturday afternoon, the students made their way to their seats while Kool & the Gang’s classic anthem of rejoicing, “Celebration,” played in the background. They came for the Chantilly Pyramid Minority Student Achievement Committee’s (CPMSAC) 27th annual awards ceremony.
Three Decades Behind Bars
Man sentenced in killing of Centreville handyman.
When criminals targeted the home of a wealthy Centreville man, two years ago, their motive was money — they planned to rob him and leave. Murder wasn’t on the horizon. But when the homeowner’s handyman, Jose Cardona, tried to stop them, he paid with his life.
Readying for Relay for Life
Chantilly event raises money for American Cancer Society.
Bill Hamm was 10,500 feet up, elk hunting in the Colorado Rocky Mountains in 2006, when he discovered a lump on his throat. He’d thought he was healthy; but the lump was a swollen lymph node and, six months later, he was diagnosed with stage IV throat cancer.
Centre View Roundups, June 6, 2012
Walney Road Bridge Meeting; Encore Presents ‘Dancin’ Fool’; Women’s Self-Defense Course; Park Authority to Meet; Free Carseat Inspections; Meals on Wheels Volunteers ; WFCM Seeks Food, Volunteers
Tuesday, June 12
Safety Check: ‘They’re Saving Lives Today’
Officers check commercial trucks for violations.
At first glance, it looked like a big-rig parade, with large commercial trucks lined up one behind the other in a parking lot off Route 28 in Chantilly.
Thursday, June 7
Westfield Baseball Season Ends at Region Semifinals
Bulldogs have no answer for Lake Braddock southpaw Thomas Rogers.
Westfield High baseball’s strong postseason showing at the 16-team Northern Region tournament concluded one victory shy of both an appearance in the finals and an automatic seeding for this week’s state tournament when the Bulldogs lost to Lake Braddock and ace left-handed pitcher Thomas Rogers, 8-0, last Wednesday afternoon at James Madison High School in Vienna.
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
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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.
Reward Offered In Frying Pan Attacks
$7,500 offered for information leading to arrest and conviction.
The Fairfax County Park Authority announced a $7,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons suspected of attacking animals at Frying Pan Farm Park sometime the night of May 26 or the morning of May 27. The slashing attacks left a chicken, a calf and two goats wounded.
Tuesday, June 5
Closet Begins Summer Shopping Days
Monthly Thursday evening hours allow more shopping opportunities.
The Closet, a nonprofit thrift shop in downtown Herndon, will open Thursday evenings once a month, to allow potential shoppers another chance to explore the various clothes, antiques, electronics and other appliances offered.
Herndon Celebrates 32nd Annual Festival
Tens of thousands flock to annual downtown event.
Out of all the rides, games, food, activities and vendors at this year’s Herndon Festival, Geoff Smith, 12, of Herndon, says one thing will stick out in his mind: a robot that can shoot baskets.
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.
