Thursday, March 29
Operation Enduring Collaboration
From March 19-21, the Fairfax County government held a three-day emergency exercise called Operation: Enduring Collaboration during which county agencies and partners worked through worst-case scenarios relating to a major tornado outbreak in Fairfax County.
Fair Lakes Girl Honored at Ball
She’s a leukemia survivor.
Skyler Hundley, a 9-and-a-half-year-old fourth-grader at Poplar Tree Elementary, lives with her parents, John and Stacey, twin sister Jordan and little brother Christian, 5, in Fair Lakes. An active girl, she likes riding her bike and scooter, jumping on a trampoline and playing CYA soccer.
At Jazz Festival
Under the direction of Robert Zazzara, the Stone Middle School Jazz Ensemble participated in the 32nd Annual Chantilly Invitational Jazz Festival on March 16. They received a “Superior” rating for their performance and received a second place trophy out of five middle school performing groups. First row, from left: Michael Baylock, Donovan Davis, Mikenna Moore, Casey Comer, Britain Bangerter, John Dickenson, Christian Nunley; second row: William Dzubak, Christopher Hoffman, Sarah Shim, Catherine Corradino, Sydney Park, Garrett Anderson, Nicole Ruckert, Austin Porter, Sean Luffy; third row: Alex Jorgensen, Thomas Lattomus, Lauren Mannikko, Cole Sorrells, Chloe Hicks, John Nguyen, Samuel Kim and Kathryn Mozell. Absent: Connor Charters.
Celebrating 100th Birthday of Girl Scouting
The Girl Scouts of Service Unit 56-3, which includes girls from local Centreville, Chantilly and Fairfax elementary and middle schools, enjoyed cupcakes and ice cream and a night of songs on March 15 that Greenbriar West Elementary School. Daisies, Brownies, Juniors and Cadettes were led in song by ladies from the Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital “Sing-A-Long” service. Approximately 100 girls and their leaders/parents attended the 1.5 hour event which ended with each participant receiving a balloon and a goodie bag with, among other items, a special 100th anniversary patch for their uniforms.
Centreville High Celebrates Its Diversity
Centreville High celebrated its cultural and ethnic diversity, Friday, March 23, with an International Night showcasing student talent.
Fairfax Assists in Murder Investigation
On July 14, 1996, Thelma Scroggins was found dead in her home on Batna Road in Lignum (Culpeper County), Virginia. Scroggins was shot multiple times and died as a result of her injuries. Raymond Morrogh, the Fairfax County Commonwealth Attorney, has been appointed as a special prosecutor in the case. The Fairfax County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office along with the assistance of the Fairfax County Police Department is currently investigating the death of Scroggins.
Clifton Man Also To Be Honored
Two battles with lymphoma.
David Timko became the executive director of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Washington, D.C., chapter in 1987 and, the following year, helped create the fund-raising Leukemia Ball. Little did he know then that he’d someday be one of the event’s patient heroes.
Centre View Crime Report March 23
Activities reported by the Sully police department through March 23.
Letter: Potential Corruption Not Actual
With respect to your editorial "Practices that Undermine Public Trust" (March 21) noting findings by an organization called the State Integrity Investigation, there are certainly ideas in their report that ought to be considered for improving the transparency and accountability of Virginia's government.
Centre View Roundups March 28
Chantilly Crash Victim Identified Fairfax County police have identified the victim of a one-car crash, March 20 in Chantilly, as Robert Bittner, 56, of Ashburn. The incident occurred on the Fairfax County Parkway near Franklin Farm Road. Shortly before 1 p.m., he was driving a 1999 Toyota Camry south on the parkway when his vehicle left the roadway just past Franklin Farm Road and struck the sound wall.
Letter: Court Case: Inspiring Effort
I just read the article in The Centre View ["Virginia Tech Found Culpable"] about your court case involving Virginia Tech and the series of events that took place in December, 2011.
Budget, Budget, Toil and Trouble
Fairfax County funding is less than desired.
To the average person, $6.7 billion seems like lots of money. But for Fairfax County — home to more than 1 million people — it’s still not enough to fund everything its residents want. But county representatives say they’re doing the best they can in a difficult economy.
Anyone for Bike Riding?
Fairfax County’s creating a Bicycle Transportation Plan.
Besides being fun and good exercise, bicycle riding can also help improve transportation in Fairfax County. So the county’s Department of Transportation (DOT) is holding a series of meetings to further develop a countywide Bicycle Transportation Plan.
County Feeding Deer to Control Ticks
As part of a new research study looking at a new method of controlling tick infestations, the Fairfax County Wildlife Biologist’s Office has deployed deer feeding stations in 20 locations across the county.
To Soldiers from Chantilly with Love
Chantilly High National Honor Society students spearheaded a communitywide drive to collect snacks and toiletries to send to U.S. soldiers overseas.
Residents Speak Out about What They Want in Bike Plan
Local residents had their say recently about Fairfax County’s plan to create a practical and workable bicycle-transportation network.
Fairfax County’s Creating Bicycle Transportation Plan
Besides being fun and good exercise, bicycle riding can also help improve transportation in Fairfax County.
Fairfax Board of Supervisors Considers Raising Stormwater Management Fee
One-penny hike on property tax could raise $35 million for projects throughout the county.
When it rains, it pours. That’s why Fairfax County taxpayers may have to fork over more money this year for stormwater management.
Wednesday, March 28
Entertainment March 28
To have community events listed in Centre View, e-mail to centreview@connectionnewspapers.com. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412.
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Chantilly Boys Lose Close One to Bruins, 3-2
Chargers soccer makes spirited comeback after trailimng 3-0.
In Chantilly High boys’ soccer action last week, the Chargers, in a non-district game played at Lake Braddock Secondary, lost a close 3-2 contest to the Bruins.
Centreville Baseball Hoping to Remain Hot in Florida
Wildcats, winners of their first four games, are headed for Orlando for spring break week.
An early season trip to Florida for spring break week is always nice for a high school baseball team, but it’s even better when a team has gotten off to the sort of fast start that the Centreville Wildcats have.
Column: Peculiar Presence
In the last few months, out of the blue, I have received electronic correspondence from each of my three oldest childhood friends (none of whom have remained adulthood friends, though all three remain of interest to me) commenting on my cancer diagnosis; each having stumbled across one of my cancer columns online, presumably after initiating a Google-type search for yours truly.
Northern Region Sports Roundup
Lloyd to be inducted into basketball shrine.
The Lee High boys’ soccer team (1-2-1), under head coach John Millward, was able to hold off a late charge by the Oakton Cougars to win 1-0 in Lee's home opener this past Tuesday night, March 27. After a quick re-start, and some quick midfield play, Luis Aguilar, a senior forward, found senior midfielder Jamie Ahmed, who took a one-touch into space then placed a 36-yard shot into the upper net with 12 minutes left.
Arts Council Offers Taste of Spring
Taste of the Town brings restaurants to the forefront.
This Spring, the annual Taste of the Town festival will celebrate many of Herndon’s signature restaurants by giving visitors a chance to sample their signature items. Hosted by the Council for the Arts of Herndon, the 21st annual event has long been known as a showcase for destination dining.
Classical Ballet Theatre Dancers On the Move
Nonprofit dance studio hosts annual fundraiser, prepares for move to Reston.
When Cynthia Donavin, executive director of the Classical Ballet Theatre, was searching for inspiration to find a new location for the studio, she turned to one of the area’s most famous patrons of the arts: Reston founder Robert Simon.
Tuesday, March 27
NOVA Women Capture State Basketball Crown
Vienna’s Carlie Zirkle earns MVP honors.
The Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) women’s basketball team won the 2012 Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Championship by defeating Southside Virginia Community College, 48-26. The tournament was held March 2-4 in Chesapeake. Former Marshall High standout Carlie Zirkle (Vienna) received the most valuable player honor and was named to the All-Tournament team, along with Halley Cummins (Vienna) and Yvette Gilliam (Woodbridge).
Editorial: Interrupting Harassment and Bullying
Empowering bystanders to intervene, students to set boundaries.
With a controversial and much discussed new movie, "Bully," coming out this week, local school districts continue to wrestle with the issue of bullying in the schools.
Thursday, March 22
39 Get Shaved for St. Baldrick’s
The eighth annual St. Baldrick’s Day event in Centreville was fun for a serious purpose. Raising nearly $27,000 toward childhood-cancer research, it was held Saturday, March 17, at Fast Eddie’s. Some 39 people — including three women — had their heads shaved bald while the crowd cheered them on. Earlier fund-raisers at Chick-Fil-A and Moe’s raised $400 total.
County Executive Recommends More Cuts to Libraries
Walk into the Centreville Library and one is confronted with an institution in crisis. Attendance is up and demand has increased, even as the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors slashed $5 million out of the library system's budget in the past four years. Longtime Library Director Sam Clay says the library has had to make some difficult decisions in recent years, reducing staffing and hours throughout the 21-branch library system.
Sully Crime Report March 21
Activities reported by the Sully police department through March 16.
Chantilly Students Are On A Roll
Ninety are honored for their achievements.
Some 90 students were honored recently for their academic growth and achievement at Chantilly High’s second-quarter On-A-Roll ceremony. But it meant much more than the certificate they received.
Centreville Author Publishes Lessons From Counterinsurgencies
Lessons from historic counter insurgencies come to light in “Isolating the Guerilla,” a new book by Centreville resident Lieutenant Colonel Michael Trevett, chief of Aerial Sensors Branch with the Intelligence and Security Command at Ft. Belvoir.
Cameron Elizabeth Harrier Dies
Cameron Elizabeth Harrier, age 22, of Centreville, died March 15, 2012 after a prolonged illness. Cameron was the beloved daughter of Constance Finley-Harrier of Centreville and Dr. Dale Harrier of Espanola, New Mexico. She is survived by her brother, Colin Harrier of Denver, Colo., sisters Devon and Danielle Harrier of Espanola, New Mexico as well as several uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Centre View Roundups March 21
Fatal Crash in Chantilly A 56-year-old Ashburn man died Tuesday following a car crash on the Fairfax County Parkway near Franklin Farm Road. The incident occurred March 20 shortly before 1 p.m. Fairfax County police say the man was driving southbound on the parkway and, for unknown reasons, left the roadway just past Franklin Farm Road and struck the sound wall.
Local Girl Scout Troops Celebrate 100th Anniversary
Last Monday, March 12, was the 100th anniversary of Girl Scouting, and that afternoon, seven troops that meet at Virginia Run Elementary gathered to celebrate the centennial together.
Mountain View Department Awards Are Presented
Mountain View High School’s department awards were presented Feb. 3. The recipients were as follows:
State Champions at Rocky Run
MathCounts team captures first place.
Besides bringing home a state championship from Richmond last weekend, members of Rocky Run Middle School’s MathCounts team had another goal, as well.
Virginia Tech Found Culpable in 2007 Massacre
Sued for wrongful death by Erin Peterson’s parents.
All the money in the world won’t bring back their daughter Erin, but Celeste and Grafton Peterson at least have the satisfaction of knowing that Virginia Tech was officially found partly culpable in the April 16, 2007 massacre that killed 32 students.
Ryan Dillon Dies at 22
Life stacked the deck against Ryan Dillon. He was autistic and had bone cancer and lived just to age 22.
Ashley Stewart, Bryce Buell Engaged
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Stewart of Clifton announce the engagement of their daughter Ashley Blum Stewart to Bryce Aaron Buell, son of Carl Buell of Scotia-Glenville, N.Y., and Valerie and Michael Barlous of Rockville, Md.
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Sports Notes from the Northern Region
State high school hoops champs; Jimmy Lange wins again; Westfields hosts prestigious golf tourney.
Game Reports Wanted: Coaches, team managers/parents - Please send high school team game results to sports editor Rich Sanders at richsand8@aol.com, or contact him on twitter at richsand8. In game reports, please include date and place of game, game highlights, team win-loss record, and any other news-worth items. Photos are also accepted.
Chantilly Boys' Soccer Ties Broad Run
Chargers home versus South County this Friday night.
The Chantilly High boys’ soccer team opened the spring season with a pair of home games last week – a 1-1 tie versus non-Northern Region opponent Broad Run (Dulles District) on Tuesday, March 13, and a tough 1-0 loss to region opponent Thomas Jefferson High on Thursday, March 15. In the deadlock versus the Spartans from Broad Run (Ashburn), Chantilly’s Billy Germain scored on a header shot off a crossing pass from teammate Mannaan Umar.
St. Patrick’s Day Basketball Celebration at Wakefield High
Northern Region’s top seniors boys’ high school players, including Westfield’s Quentin Basil, compete in All-Star game, festivities.
Bryant Fultz wasn’t among the top performers in the dunk contest during the Northern Region Coaches Association All-Star Boys’ Basketball festivities on March 17, but the West Potomac senior made his mark during the main event.
Clear River Community Church Moves to New Facility
Clear River Community Church, established in 1999 as a non-denominational Christian Church, is moving its meeting location from Stone Middle School in Centreville — where it has been meeting for the past 10 years — to Westfield High School, in Chantilly. They will celebrate their inaugural service at the new facility on Easter Sunday, April, 8, at 10 a.m.
Centre View Calendar -- March 21-28
To have community events listed in Centre View, e-mail to centreview@connectionnewspapers.com. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412.
Wednesday, March 21
Does Music Make Children Smarter?
During Music In Our Schools Month, musicians raise awareness of impact of music education on lives of students.
Can playing the piano strengthen a child’s reading and math skills? Can joining a school band be a catalyst for building self-confidence? Does one develop strong analytical abilities by taking violin lessons? Some music experts say yes.
Exciting All-Star Afternoon
Concorde/Patriot All-Stars beat the Liberty/National team 109-108 in overtime.
West Potomac's Bryant Fultz threw down a fourth-quarter alley-oop dunk from fellow Wolverine Randall Brobbey, scored a team-high 15 points and earned game MVP honors as the Concorde/Patriot All-Stars defeated the Liberty/National team 109-108 in overtime at Wakefield High School.
Risky Behavior by the Numbers
Youth Survey highlights risks, assets for students.
Periodically, Fairfax County conducts a youth survey which polls thousands of students to get a glimpse into issues of substance abuse, antisocial behaviors as well as factors such as mental health and civic engagements.
Tuesday, March 20
Herndon Seniors Create Exhibit
ArtSpace hosts second annual senior art show.
Last Fall, Herndon High School senior Baback Chiniforoushan was with some friends and his dog next to the Washington Monument when they performed a familiar ritual.
Editorial: ‘Practices That Undermine Trust’
Virginia gets a failing grade on ethics rules.
The State Integrity Investigation is "designed to expose practices that undermine trust in state capitols — and spotlight the states that are doing things right."
Column: “Here, There And Everywhere”
The Beatles sang it on their “Revolver” album back in the mid 60s. My wife and I danced to it in the late 70s when we selected it as “first song as husband and wife” – in 1978. And recently we felt it, three years after my stage IV lung cancer diagnosis, as our reaction/assessment to the many similarly diagnosed individuals who’ve shared their lung cancer stories with us. Who knew?
Friday, March 16
Run a Race, Help Save Lives
5K in honor of two local women.
After surviving breast cancer, chemotherapy and radiation, Centreville’s Vanessa Spiller is doing well and hopes to soon receive a clean bill of health from her doctor. Fair Lakes resident BethAnn Telford was diagnosed with a Stage III brain tumor in 2005, and is still fighting for her life.
Two Capture Regional Acting Awards
Chaz Coffin is an award-winning actor. Not only did he receive a Cappie last year as part of the ensemble in Westfield High’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” but he’s now the proud owner of a WATCH
Thursday, March 15
A Meal and a Play: ‘Maid for Dogs’
Clifton Dinner Theater presents original comedy.
Actors are often advised not to perform with children or animals because they’ll be upstaged. But in The Clifton Dinner Theater’s play, “Maid for Dogs,” the animals — gray, standard poodles — are well-behaved and the show is hilarious.
5K in Honor of Two Local Women
After surviving breast cancer, chemotherapy and radiation, Centreville’s Vanessa Spiller is doing well and hopes to soon receive a clean bill of health from her doctor. Fair Lakes resident BethAnn Telford was diagnosed with a Stage III brain tumor in 2005, and is still fighting for her life.
Centre View Calendar -- March 15-22
To have community events listed in Centre View, e-mail to centreview@connectionnewspapers.com. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412.
Food, Fashion and Fun in Fair Oaks
Salvation Army fund-raiser includes lunch, silent auction.
Food, stylish clothing and fun are on the menu for the Fairfax Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary’s upcoming fund-raiser. It’s slated for Friday, March 30, at the Waterford in Fair Oaks (across from Fair Oaks Mall).
Centre View Roundups March 15-22
St. Baldrick’s Day Celebration On Saturday, March 17, Centreville’s eighth annual St. Baldrick’s Day celebration will be held at Fast Eddie’s in the Newgate Shopping Center at Routes 28/29.
Dulles Rail, Phase Two; Silver Line Station Names
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting and an Ask Fairfax online discussion to inform the public about Phase Two of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project. The sessions will provide information related to Phase Two project cost, financing, physical layout and Silver Line station names. Participants will be able to complete the online Station Names Survey in person at the public meetings. The Board of Supervisors will also hold a public hearing to receive public comment on the Phase 2 project.
Testifying on Bike Helmet Bill
Centreville High School seniors Texas Williams, Hanna Lee, Jessie Dagata and Matt Darling traveled to Richmond along with their Advanced Placement U.S. and Comparative Government teacher, Terri Ritchey, to argue before the Senate Subcommittee about a bill requiring anyone under the age of 14 to wear a bike helmet. The Brain Trauma Association and EMT Association also spoke in favor of the bill, which was written and researched by the students. The bill was submitted on the students' behalf by state Sen. George Barker, above with the four CVHS students.
War of 1812
The Lane's Mill Daughters of the American Revolution chapter sponsored the Centreville Library's February display case titled "Bicentennial of the War of 1812 - The Forgotten War." Created by chapter member Marguerite Hogge, the display touched on areas of the war including frigates and battles. The display included a tribute to 24-year-old Senate clerk Lewis H. Machen who saved Senate records before the British burned the Capitol on Aug. 24, 1814. The Machen family eventually moved to Centreville and lived in on the property now known as the Walney Visitors Center, owned by the Fairfax County Park Authority.
Gail Leigh Brinkworth Dies
Gail Leigh Brinkworth Dies
Letter: Republicans Lose Their Way
I miss the Republican Party. I miss the party whose first Presidential candidate ran on a slogan of “Free Soil, Free Labor, Free Speech, Free Men, and Fremont.”
Chantilly Students Create Care Packages for Soldiers
Life lessons don’t always come from books. National Honor Society (NHS) students at Chantilly High are learning that firsthand, showing care and compassion by collecting items to send to U.S. soldiers overseas. Students at other Chantilly Pyramid schools are collecting, too, as part of the America's Adopt-A-Soldier program.
A Place for Artists in Clifton
The Art Guild of Clifton is forming.
The members of the Art Guild of Clifton don’t yet have a permanent space or funding, but both are in the works. They’ve got participating artists, talent and enthusiasm and, on Saturday, March 17, they’re having a grand opening in the Town of Clifton.
A Mission of Mercy Helps Hundreds
More than 800 residents receive free dental services during two-day event.
The triage center at Saturday’s Mission of Mercy Dental health clinic resembled a modern-day MASH unit.
Westfield’s Breakthrough Season Will Long be Remembered
Following tough loss in Concorde finals, Bulldog boys road region tournament wave to first-ever title.
Over an eight-day period in late February, the Westfield High boys’ basketball team put together a remarkable stretch of play which resulted in the program’s first-ever Northern Region title and provided a lifetime of highlight moments for Bulldog players, coaches and fans.
Wednesday, March 14
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Virginia Officials Deliberately Moving Slowly on Health Care Exchange
If Supreme Court upholds health-care reform, governor would have to call special session.
Virginia has eight months to create a certification plan for how it plans to create a health-care exchange, a legal requirement of President Barack Obama’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Business Matters
How far did the empire of Orange Julius reach? What’s the capital of Banana Republic? Is Aeropostale aerodynamic?
Column: “Early Results Show Stable Disease”
There’s five words e-mailed from my oncologist that I can live with (Duh!). Certainly better than the previous nine words e-mailed eight weeks ago regarding my then current CT Scan: “Scan results show progression. We’ll talk more on Friday.”
Herndon Welcomes New Chief
Col. Maggie A. DeBoard sworn in as chief of police.
The Town of Herndon welcomed Col. Maggie A. DeBoard as chief of police Tuesday, March 6, when she was officially sworn in at the Ingram Council Chambers. DeBoard, a 25-year veteran of the Fairfax County Police Department, has previously served as captain of the Franconia District Station, commander of the county’s helicopter division, commander of the Special Operations division and deputy chief of investigations.
No More Food Waste at Dranesville Elementary
Students, faculty kick off food donation program with LINK food bank.
After watching almost 6,000 pounds of food go to waste last year, the students and faculty of Dranesville Elementary School decided to do something about it. On Monday, March 12 the school cut the ribbon on their food recovery program, which will support LINK, a local nonprofit that provides food assistance to residents of Herndon, Sterling and Ashburn.
Tuesday, March 13
Local Designers Selected to Make Over D.C. Design House
Annual event raises money for Children's National Medical Center.
Some of the Washington area's top interior designers are unleashing their creative talent all in the name of charity. Organizers of the 2012 Washington, D.C. Design House announced the designers who will make over the 2012 D.C. Design Home.
The Chateau in Oak Hollow
One of just four properties in Fairfax County listed at HomesDatabase.com for sale for more than $10 million, this home sits on five acres in Clifton, and is for sale for $12.5 million. The other three properties are in McLean.
Editorial: So Hard to Imagine?
Poor families face challenges that officials and many of the rest of us have trouble envisioning.
The Commonwealth of Virginia and even Northern Virginia includes many poor families and individuals. But officials seem to have trouble wrapping their brains around some of the difficulties this can cause.
Stakes Are High in Virginia Budget Standoff
Lawmakers flee Capitol, where partisan gridlock reigns.
The budget standoff in Richmond could have drastic consequences in Northern Virginia, where every service from education to transportation is on the line.
Monday, March 12
Fairfax Supervisors to Consider Even More Cuts to Library System
In the last four years, more than $5 million has been slashed from the library budget.
Walk into the Centreville Library and one is confronted with an institution in crisis.
Friday, March 9
Shaving Away Childhood Cancer
St. Baldrick’s Fund-Raiser Is March 17
Every year, 160,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer. It also kills more children in Canada and the U.S. than any other disease. So the St. Baldrick’s Foundation has dedicated itself to funding the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers. And a group of determined and enthusiastic local residents is helping.
Centre View Calendar -- March 8-14
To have community events listed in Centre View, e-mail to centreview@connectionnewspapers.com. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412.
Another Crowning Success for Westfield Wrestler Beau Donahue
Westfield junior gains his second straight state championship.
Winning one individual state title is an accomplishment a high school wrestler will always treasure. But winning two is an enormous feat when one considers the pressure to live up to the high expectations of a state champion and the fact that every opponent is highly motivated to defeat the best wrestler out there.
Chantilly Library: The Renewal Project
“A wonderful place for our community."
Just as the writing of a book begins with an idea, so did the renovations of the Chantilly Regional Library. It started around 2004, when then Branch Manager Bonnie Worcester and her staff first discussed how to improve customer service there.
Chantilly Library Turns a Page
Ribbon-cutting signals start of new chapter.
When the ribbon was cut last week to celebrate the changes at the Chantilly Regional Library, it marked the beginning of a new era there. It was also the culmination of years of planning and work.
Centre View Roundups March 8-14
Certified technicians from the Sully District Police Station will perform free, child safety carseat inspections Thursday, March 8, and March 22, from 5-8:30 p.m., at the station, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly. No appointment is necessary. But residents should install the child safety seats themselves so technicians may properly inspect and adjust them, as needed.
Trophy Time For Westfield
Thespians win VHSL One-Act Play State Championship.
There’s rejoicing at Westfield High. The school’s thespians captured a state championship Saturday, March 3, at the VHSL One-Act Play competition in Charlottesville.
Alliance Theatre’s ‘Laughing Stock’
A comedic look at putting on a show.
Everything that can go wrong does go wrong in The Alliance Theatre’s production of “Laughing Stock.” But that’s the way it’s supposed to be as the local thespians portray members of a theater company putting on three different plays during their summer season.
Hot Music, Cool Vibe at Chantilly
Invitational Jazz Festival is March 16-17.
The sounds of smooth, cool jazz will fill the air during the 32nd annual Chantilly High Invitational Jazz Festival. It’s slated for Friday-Saturday, March 16-17, in the school auditorium.
Cheerleaders of the Year
Sam Culin, a Liberty Middle School 8th grader, and Graciela Perez, a Robinson Middle School 8th grader, were both awarded Cheerleader of the Year by the Fairfax County Youth Football League at their annual Hall of Fame ceremony on Sunday, March 4 at the McLean Hilton. Both girls cheer for Southwestern Youth Association's Extreme Silver cheerleading squad.
Sixth Annual Father-Daughter Dance
Centreville Elementary School held its 6th annual Father Daughter Dance on Friday, Feb. 3. More than 100 CES girls and their male role models came to celebrate the evening. Thanks to the Flock of Eagles band, who played live at the event with a mix of pop tunes and some 80's rock for the adults, the girls and their Dads danced well into the night. Centreville Dance Academy sponsored the event by taking a professional portrait of each couple, which is given to each girl as a keepsake. Other local business sponsors were Bonefish Grill, Brick's Pizza, Domino's Pizza, Virginia Tire and Auto, Banners Hallmark and Dr. Wash.
Examining Causes of Domestic Violence
There have been three homicides in the Sully District since Capt. Purvis Dawson became commander of the Sully District Police Station, in April 2010 — and all three had domestic components.
It’s ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ at Franklin Middle School
Featuring a cast and crew of 125, Franklin Middle School presents the musical, “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” Show times are Wednesday, March 14, at 2:45 p.m., and Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 15, 16 and 17, at 7 p.m. each night Tickets are $8 at the door and during school lunches.
Thursday, March 8
Column: Look What She Saw—Sort Of
Well there’s five seconds that fellow super-market-shopper won’t have back anytime soon. The question, the curiosity is: will she have nightmares and/or live to regret staring at me so intently that I think I may have seen the whites of her eyes – and it wasn’t even remotely dark?
Local Governments Enjoy Record Spending
Bucking national trend, local governments here expand while others are contracting.
As local governments across America are laying off firefighters and teachers, governments in Northern Virginia are experiencing record levels of spending and an all-time-high number of employees.
Not-So-Super Tuesday
Turnout for Virginia's presidential preference primary was lowest in recent memory.
With two of the major candidates in the Republican presidential contest failing to qualify for the ballot in Virginia, Super Tuesday was anything but super.
Wednesday, March 7
Breakthrough Season to Remember Ends for Westfield
Region champion Bulldogs, at state playoffs, take Henrico to the wire in four-point loss.
The Westfield High boys’ basketball team struggled to get its footing early on in it’s first-ever Virginia State AAA playoff game last Friday night versus Henrico High of Richmond. Perhaps it was a case of opening minute jitters which played a role in a sluggish first quarter in which the Bulldogs, this year’s Northern Region champions, committed nine turnovers and scored just six points.
Jim Smith Earns 400th Coaching Victory
Longtime Chantilly High basketball coach recorded landmark win this past season.
Jim Smith, head coach of the Chantilly High boys’ basketball team, recently reached a milestone in his coaching career as he won his 400th game.
Bulldogs Bask in Glory of First Region Basketball Crown
Westfield, behind tourney MVP Elcano, defeats Edison in boys’ finals.
For a seasoned, talented Westfield High boys’ basketball team, the key to this season’s stellar postseason run, which reached a pinnacle when the Bulldogs captured their first-ever Northern Region tournament title, the result of a convincing 62-49 finals win over Edison this past Monday night, Feb. 27, at Robinson Secondary, has been its ability to simply continue during the playoff season what it did all throughout the regular season when the team from the Concorde District went 19-3.
Centreville High’s Season Ends at Region Quarterfinals
Wildcat boys open basketball regionals with win over Washington-Lee before falling to McLean.
In the end, the Centreville High boys’ basketball team finished its season just one win away from making it to the Final Four of the Northern Region tournament.
Indoor Track Season Wraps Up at State Meet
Local Northern Region athletes compete in Hampton.
A number of local athletes put together strong showings at last weekend’s Virginia State AAA Indoor Track and Field Championships, held Friday and Saturday (Feb. 24-25) at the Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton. On the boys’ side, Westfield High finished third overall and was the top finisher from out of the Northern Region. The Bulldogs finished with 27 team points. The team champion was Western Branch (48) of Chesapeake, a member of the Eastern Region. Finishing second was Grassfield (34 points) of Chesapeake.
Tuesday, March 6
Fire Department Seeks Artifacts
Station looking for historic memorabilia for new station lobby.
The Herndon Fire Station has a lot of history to it, and much of it will be lost forever as a new station is built over the next year. And while the original cornerstone from the station’s 1950 construction will remain with the new station, Capt. Kerwin McNamara says they are looking for plenty more.
Herndon Council Approves Metro Amendment
Plan allows for increased density, new road network, other changes for area north of station.
The Herndon Town Council voted four to three Tuesday, Feb. 28 to approve the Comprehensive Plan Amendment that allows for redevelopment of the area north of the proposed Herndon-Monroe Metro station. The Council had been considering the plan for months, through various changes and approval from the town’s Planning Commission.
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Cleaning Up One’s Plate
Local nutrition experts encourage healthy eating during National Nutrition Month and always.
When it comes to healthy eating, Alexandria wellness educator Cheryl Mirabella encourages her clients to load up during meals, but she offers a caveat.
Health Services Coalition Receives $10,000 Grant
Funding will help provide specialty health care to low income residents.
Northern Virginia Health Services Coalition's (NOVAHSC) Specialty Access program received a $10,000 grant to help provide low-income, uninsured patients with access to specialty medical care through a regional network of providers.
Editorial: Reenacting a Dark History?
Turning back the clock in Richmond.
Who could have anticipated that our elected officials would take African-American History month and Women's History month so seriously that they would literally try to turn back the clock?
Saturday, March 3
Larry Schuster Sr., Sharon Bulova’s Father, Dies
Lawrence “Larry” K. Schuster Sr. was born in Baltimore on May 24, 1922. During World War II he served as a Marine Corps Tech Sgt. in the Pacific Theatre, where he fought on Okinawa, Saipan and Iwo Jima. In 1946 he married Mary Suzanne “Sue” Knox.
Friday, March 2
Column: Protecting Residents in Tax, Road Debates
Congress finally has acted to ensure payroll tax relief for 170 million individuals and families through the rest of 2012. This additional tax relief is critical for maintaining the momentum of the economic recovery, and Northern Virginians will realize an average savings of $2,000 per household.
Column: A Raw Deal for Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is getting a raw deal from Governor McDonnell. While we need transportation investment to support this economic engine of the state, at least $1.5 billion in transportation funds are being diverted to wasteful and unnecessary projects in rural areas. Meanwhile, the state refuses to adequately fund Dulles Rail, leaving Northern Virginia taxpayers and toll payers to foot the lion's share of the bill.
Thursday, March 1
Examining Causes of Domestic Violence
What it is, the dangers and what to do about it.
There have been three homicides in the Sully District since Capt. Purvis Dawson became commander of the Sully District Police Station, in April 2010 — and all three had domestic components.
It’s ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ at Franklin Middle
Featuring a cast and crew of 125, Franklin Middle School presents the musical, “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” Show times are Wednesday, March 14, at 2:45 p.m., and Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 15, 16 and 17, at 7 p.m. each night Tickets are $8 at the door and during school lunches.
Centre View Calendar March 1-7
To have community events listed in Centre View, e-mail to centreview@connectionnewspapers.com. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412.
Centre View Roundups March 1-7
VDOT will re-open the third lane on eastbound Route 50 between Stonecroft Boulevard and Route 28 which closed to traffic last weekend as part of the Route 50 widening project in Fairfax and Loudoun counties. The one-mile lane closure has caused lengthy delays on eastbound Route 50 and surrounding roads, this week, during the morning rush. The lane will re-open by March 5, weather permitting.
Fire Ravages Centreville Home
Damage estimated at $750,000
Nine-year-old William Wilson was outside playing football with his dad, Monday evening, in Centreville’s Hunt Chase Estates community, when they saw smoke coming from the house next door and the occupants fleeing.
Man Pleads Guilty: Robbery, Using Gun
Reynard Lazaro Prather, 23, of Oxon Hill, Md., has been convicted for his role in the May 2010 murder of workman Jose Cardona at a Centreville home. Last Wednesday, Feb. 22, in federal court in Alexandria, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery and using a firearm in the commission of that crime.
Centre View Crime March 1-7
Assault -- Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy/Lees Corner Road. Feb. 7, 2:40 p.m. An officer conducted a traffic stop and arrested the driver, a 50-year-old female of Clifton. She allegedly became belligerent and fought the officer. She was subsequently charged with assault on police officer, open container and driving while intoxicated.
Letters: Political Posturing
My reason for writing is to express my distaste with the Senate Democrats in Richmond regarding the state budget issue. Virginia has been nationally ranked as one of the best managed states in the country because our attitude for cooperation and strong bipartisanship. Last week, however, the state budget was blocked in the Senate by the Democrats which may turn into a repeat of what happened in 2004 and 2006, where political stalemates endangered our state with a government shutdown.
Letters: More Jobs Needed
The Centreville Labor Resource Center, the 3-month-old project of Centreville Immigration Forum, is open and operating.
Bulldogs Are Getting It
In September 2008, I wrote a letter to the editor titled “Bulldogs Just Don’t Get It.” My detailed essay described my frustration with the behavior of the Westfield High School student body during various athletic events. I had no idea how many other people felt the same way I did until folks I had never met thanked me for having the courage to write a letter exposing the behavior that they, too, detested.
Crime Solvers Seeks Culprits
Fairfax County Crime Solvers is seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect(s) who broke out numerous windows of a mosque under construction. An employee of the construction company called police Jan. 30 after discovering the damage around 6:45 a.m. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community mosque, at 4555 Ahmadiyya Drive in Chantilly, had been secured by the construction company the day before, Jan. 29, around 4:30 p.m.
Centreville Man Pleads Guilty to Soliciting
A Centreville man who used to be the band director at Robinson Secondary School was convicted in court Tuesday, Feb. 28, of computer solicitation of a child under age 15. He is Michael Keith Cook, 43 of Climbing Rose Way.
Chantilly Day Plans Marching Along
Community event is slated for spring.
Plans are marching along for the first-ever, Chantilly Day. The celebration is set for Saturday, May 12, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., in the parking lot of the Sully Place Shopping Center in Chantilly.
Bicycle Master Plan Meeting March 6
Area residents can help set the course to make Fairfax County a bicycle-friendly community by attending a public meeting on the countywide Bicycle Transportation Master Plan. It’s slated for Tuesday, March 6, from 6:30-9 p.m., at the Sully District Governmental Center, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly. People may drop in anytime, and there’ll be a presentation at 7:30 p.m.
State Senate Committee Kills Effort to Overturn King's Dominion Law
School boards were encouraged by support from governor, but couldn't win over Senate committee.
The Senate Committee on Education and Health voted today to kill an effort overturning the King's Dominion Law, which mandates that school divisions across Virginia begin classes after Labor Day.
Outgoing County Executive Tony Griffin Presents Final Budget Proposal
$6.7 billion proposal is a 6.1 percent budget increase.
Appearing before members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for the last time, outgoing county executive Anthony Griffin had the luxury of taking the long view.
Governments Across Virginia Hope to Kill Local Aid to the State Program
Jurisdictions hope to kill funding scheme created at height of recession.
In the darkest days of the global financial crisis, leaders in Richmond were willing to do almost anything to balance the budget.