Stories for March 2015

Stories for March 2015

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Tuesday, March 31

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Move Me Festival Gets Arlington Moving

Bowen McCauley Dance returned to Kenmore Middle School last Saturday with the 6th annual Move Me Festival. Music, theatre and dance workshops and performances were held throughout the afternoon in the middle school.

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Participants serve Arlington Works! as part of their year-long service commitment.

AmeriCorps members pledge to get things done for America. When they embark upon their year of community service, they vow to unite fellow Americans and strengthen communities. The now eight-member Arlington Works! AmeriCorps team has been doing just this since the partnership started in 2011. This year’s Arlington Works! team is the fourth AmeriCorps team to work with two non-profits, the Arlington Education and Employment Program (REEP) and Edu-Futuro, a partner program of Arlington Public Schools that sets out to ensure opportunities for children of immigrant families.

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Fehr and Duncan Edwards Read ‘The Bulliest Dozer’ to Arlington Students

Washington Capitals forward Eric Fehr and co-author Pamela Duncan Edwards participate in a Q&A session with nearly 50 Key Elementary School students following a reading of “The Bulliest Dozer.”

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Arlington: Nunez-­Led Washington-Lee Generals Not Surprising Anyone

W-­L boys’ soccer expects to face defensive-­minded opponents.

The Washington-Lee boys' soccer team is off to a 3-0-1 start.

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NoVa TEEN Book Festival Featured 21 Authors

NoVa TEEN Book Festival featured 21 authors in four main event panels and 16 smaller Q&A-driven breakout sessions; the event closed out with a keynote speech from New York Times bestselling author Matt de la Peña, whose latest release is “The Living.”

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Arlington: Nunez-Led Washington-Lee Generals Not Surprising Anyone

W-L boys’ soccer expects to face defensive-minded opponents.

Washington-Lee forward Maycol Nunez dominated opponents during a stellar sophomore season, scoring 37 goals while leading the Generals to the 2014 VHSL 6A state final.

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Arlington Courtroom Drama

Public Defenders protest pay inequality with Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

“You have a right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.”

Police Captain Graduates from FBI Academy

Captain Graham H. McGowan is the Fairfax County Police Department’s latest graduate of the FBI’s National Academy, which has just completed its 259th session.

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Girl Scouts Troop 3651 Raise Money for Honor Flights

Film and presentations explain the importance of getting veterans to Washington D.C. to see their monuments.

Girl Scout Troop 3651 organized a screening of the moving Honor Flight, and invited two World War II veterans, Howard Jester and George Hanna, to speak to the audience after the film.

Touring with Walt Whitman in Arlington

Tour guide Garrett Peck debuts “Walt Whitman in Washington, D.C.: The Civil War and America’s Great Poet.”

Arlington historian, author and tour guide Garrett Peck will showcase his latest book “Walt Whitman in Washington, D.C.: The Civil War of America’s Great Poet” at One More Page Books.

"Flourishing After 55" for April 12-18

Office of Senior Adult Programs Department of Parks and Recreation 300 N. Park Dr., Arlington, VA 22203 703-228-4744

Friday, March 27

Editorial: Good, Bad and Ugly

A look at recently ended session of the Virginia General Assembly.

The 2015 session of the Virginia General Assembly came to an end last week, and some of the biggest news was about what it did not do.

Thursday, March 26

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Spring Fun in Arlington

Spring Fun in Arlington

Wednesday, March 25

Column: Health Matters More

I realize money doesn’t buy happiness, although I wouldn’t mind renting it.

Tuesday, March 24

Arlington's Little Libraries: Take a Book, Return a Book

Front lawn libraries sprouting all over.

The “little free library” movement has arrived in Arlington. It explains those unusual structures beside the sidewalks that look like overgrown birdhouses. Soon, more will appear on county-owned property courtesy of Arlington Public Library.

Arlington: “Flourishing After 55”

“Flourishing After 55” from Arlington Office of Senior Adult Programs for April 6-10.

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Arlington’s Uninsured

Lack of expansion taints Affordable Care Act anniversary.

National and Virginia leadership’s planned celebration of the five-year anniversary of the passage of the Affordable Care Act quickly became a discussion of the program’s outreach failings and concerns following Virginia legislature’s decisions not to expand the program. Federal and state officials met at the Arlington Mills Community Center on Monday, March 23, for for a round table discussion led by Sylvia Burwell, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Gov. Terry McAuliffe, and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-8). Much of the panel’s conversation centered around

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Fun with Science in Arlington

The students at Fort Belvoir Elementary School in Fairfax County weren’t the only ones inspired by Thursday night’s STEAM/Science Fair. Marymount University’s Gianna Fogelbach was inspired as well.

Column: Family Matters, Prevent colon cancer for self and loved ones.

Commentary

It may never feel like a “good time” to have a colonoscopy. You might have already used the excuse that the preparation day before a colonoscopy is unpleasant and cuts into your busy schedule — and then you put it off another year. But momentary discomfort or inconvenience is a small price to pay for saving your life.

Arlington Sports Briefs: 03/25/18

The Yorktown girls' lacrosse team defeated Edison 17-5 on Monday, improving its record to 2-1.

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Arlington Boy Gets to Skate with Braden Holtby

Capitals welcome Make-A-Wish child.

Washington Capitals goaltender Braden Holtby granted the wish of 13-year-old Caleb Graham on March 12 at Kettler Capitals Iceplex.

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Arlington: Yorktown Boys’ Lax Striving To Be Annual Regional Contender

Patriots return from deepest postseason run in program history.

The 2014 Yorktown boys’ lacrosse team experienced the best season in program history, reaching the 6A North region tournament semifinals.

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Virginia Housing Expo Draws Crowds

Home-ownership, rental opportunities and related services dominate the event at Herndon High.

“Those most in need of these services and resources benefit the most when we can bring so many providers and organizations together in this one-stop shop format.”

Letter: A Cornerstone in Danger

Letter to the Editor:

We are a community that values education. We’re known nationwide for our world-class education system. And for good reason: with outstanding teachers, motivated students, and active leadership, we have every right to take pride in the top-tier education that our community has asked for.

Sunday, March 22

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Marymount Celebrates Blessing of Chapel

Twenty-two custom-designed stained-glass windows were the inspiration for the first renovation to the Sacred Heart of Mary Chapel in its 62-year history at the heart of the Marymount University campus.

Friday, March 20

First Meeting Scheduled for Ad Hoc Police Commission

With endorsement, albeit non-unanimous, from the Board of Supervisors, the ad hoc commission organized by Board Chairman Sharon Bulova to review Fairfax County Police Department practices will hold its first meeting March 23.

Special Enrollment Period for Affordable Care Act Open

NVFS and Healthworks are resources for area residents through April 30.

Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) will be providing free enrollment assistance and educational material to Virginia families and individuals that qualify for the Affordable Care Act Special Enrollment Period from March 15-April 30.

Commentary: Investing in Families Strengthens Communities

Letter to the Editor

The Fairfax County proposed $7.13 billion budget for fiscal year 2016 comes at devastating cost for the most vulnerable families in our community. Included in the budget is the complete elimination of Healthy Families, a nationally recognized, evidence-based child abuse and neglect prevention program that serves hundreds of at-risk families.

Arlington Weekend Entertainment: 03/20/15

Saturday/March 21

Thursday, March 19

Arlington Home Sales: February, 2015

In February, 2015, 151 Arlington homes sold between $2,028,406-$65,000.

Arlington Home Sales: February, 2015

Wednesday, March 18

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Marymount Students Uncover Local History

Dr. Patrick Mullins had been teaching history at Marymount University for three years when he heard there was an abandoned cemetery on the northeastern edge of the suburban campus in Arlington.

Column: Money Matters

It always does, and there always are; especially if you have to work for a living and cancer is a part of that living.

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Change in Arlington Courthouse Skyline

County Board approves office complex despite concerns about vacancies.

A new 12-story office building at 2025 Clarendon Boulevard will change the face of Arlington’s Courthouse neighborhood. At its March 14 meeting, the County Board unanimously approved the redevelopment despite concerns about the design and use of the building.

Wave of Retirements Hits Arlington

Arlington County faced three major retirements over the past week. On Friday, March 13, Arlington County Manager Barbara Donnellan announced that she would be retiring, effective June 30.

“Flourishing After 55” in Arlington

“Flourishing After 55” from Arlington Office of Senior Adult Programs for March 30 - April 3.

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Arlington: Wakefield Boys’ Soccer Faces Tough Early-Season Schedule

Warriors blanked by Langley in season opener.

The first two weeks of the season figure to test the mental and physical toughness of the Wakefield boys’ soccer team. For various reasons, multiple talented athletes that Wakefield coaches figured to have on the field are unable to play.

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Arlington: Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Cars line the street for blocks for free cake at the German bakery.

The large paddle cuts through the dough in the large aluminum bowl. “This is enough for about 100 carrot cakes,” said Wolfgang Büchler.

Tuesday, March 17

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The Right Fit: Choosing a Summer Camp

How parents can ensure positive summer experiences for their children.

Though the official start of spring is still days away and the frigidity of winter is still recent on the minds of many, Janelle Wright, a Potomac, Md., mother of two, has already mapped out the summer for her children.

Editorial: On Police Information and Secrecy

Time for change in public access to police information.

The first meeting of the Fairfax County Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission will take place next Monday, March 23, and it comes with hope for real change.

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Change in Arlington's Courthouse Skyline

County Board approves office complex despite concerns about vacancies.

A new 12-story office building at 2025 Clarendon Boulevard will change the face of Arlington’s Courthouse neighborhood. At its March 14 meeting, the County Board unanimously approved the redevelopment despite concerns about the design and use of the building.

Friday, March 13

Arlington Real Estate: Top Sales in January, 2015

In January 2015, 146 Arlington homes sold between $2,300,000-$40,000.

Arlington Real Estate: Top Sales in January, 2015

Thursday, March 12

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Home Improvements Earn Remodeling Awards

Four Sun Design remodeling projects named Washington-area “Contractor of the Year” winners.

It’s been a good year for Sun Design Remodeling. In January, the full-service design/build remodeler won four “Contractor of the Year” awards from the Washington, D.C. chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Then, in February, an already locally-honored gourmet kitchen was named category best (“kitchen above $150k”) in the 10-state southeastern region.

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Luxury Apartments Popping Up All Over Northern Virginia

Renters want resort-like amenities and access to transportation.

After a long, hard day at work, Jordan Coleman comes home to a large apartment with modern amenities, including a 24-hour concierge, ample living space, a state–of-the-art fitness center and a pool. The apartment features high-end appliances and finishes as well as an open, flowing layout and large walk-in closets. Coleman – a lawyer and Capitol Hill staffer – shares the pricey rent with a friend. The complex is owned by Avalon, which has properties in Arlington, Fairfax, Herndon, Falls Church, Tysons Corner and Vienna, Virginia, as well as Bethesda, Maryland, and Washington.

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Historic Virginia in Gardens

This year’s tour includes a rare private look at special properties in Fairfax County, Old Town Alexandria and Leesburg.

The Virginia Historic Garden Tour is an 8-day event that stretches across the Commonwealth. Each spring visitors are welcomed to over 250 of Virginia's most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks.

Centreville Clock Tower Thrift Shop Now Offering Consignment

Northern Virginia Family Service is now offering furniture consignment at its Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Centreville at 6301 Centreville Crest Lane, between Advance Auto Parts and Minnieland Academy.

Letter: Beyond Politics

Letter to the Editor

It should be obvious to Arlingtonians now, nearing the end of a very demanding winter, that a planned renovation of the water distribution system within the confines of the county is necessary.

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Kenmore Students Put Art on the Table in Arlington

Seventh Grade Art students create designer tables for gallery show and sale.

With power tools and the gift of color, Kenmore Middle school art students designed and constructed 39 coffee tables that went on display in the gallery space in Arlington’s Ballston Mall.

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Death Knell for Arlington's Artisphere?

Where the Artisphere went wrong.

The County Manager Barbara Donnellan has finally made the recommendation to put the Artisphere down after five years of its limping through budget seasons. Tasked with finding a way of saving the financially hemorrhaging arts center, Donnellan warned the County Board in December that Artisphere’s future was in jeopardy, and followed through with listing the Artisphere as one of the optional cuts in the proposed Fiscal Year 2016 County Manager Budget, released Feb. 19.

Column: Small Step on Road to Ethics Reform in Arlington

Virginians deserve to know that their leaders are ethical and honest, both from their actions and the rules that govern those actions. For the second year in a row, the General Assembly has taken a small step in the right direction, but our Commonwealth needs real and substantive change.

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Lunches for Workers

The SEEC program, sponsored by Arlington County, was established in 2000 to connect day laborers with potential employers.

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W-L Gymnast Hatcher Places Fifth at States in All-Around, Arlington

Yorktown sophomore Mitrovich earns all-state on bars, beam, jump. Hatcher Places Fifth

In 2012, Washington-Lee gymnast Sophie Hatcher was a freshman in awe of teammate Mary Lynn Clark, who won state championships that year on bars and vault.

“Flourishing After 55”

“Flourishing After 55” from Arlington Office of Senior Adult Programs, March 23-28.

Supporting TAPS

The Washington Capitals hosted more than 150 children and adults who are assisted by the program during a skating party at Kettler Capitals Iceplex on Feb. 24 to launch the 2014-15 Courage Caps campaign.

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Signature Theater in Arlington Presents ‘Soon’

World premiere musical explores possibility of life and love and deferred dreams.

Directed by Matthew Gardiner, Signature Theater is presenting the world premiere of the musical, "Soon" by Nick Blaemire through April 26. The action centers around the hottest summer in human history and, in a few months, all water on earth will evaporate.

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‘Children of Eden’ on Stage

Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington hosts Chalice Theatre.

Chalice Theatre of Arlington is presenting the musical “Children of Eden” through March 15. Never on Broadway, but often performed in local theatre groups, this musical by Stephen Schwartz, who also wrote the better known musicals “Godspell” and “Pippin,” is about family.

Arlington Doctor Sentenced in Oxycodone Conspiracy

Derron McRae Simon, 45, of Arlington was sentenced March 6 to 180 months in prison, followed by six years of supervised release for his role in an oxycodone conspiracy.

Foundation Launched in Memory of Jennifer Lawson in Arlington

On the one-year anniversary of Jennifer Lawson’s death on Feb. 24, 2014, the Jennifer Bush-Lawson Foundation officially was launched in her honor to ensure access quality prenatal and postnatal care for mothers and infants.

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Arlington: W-L Gymnast Hatcher Places Fifth at States in All-Around

Yorktown sophomore Mitrovich earns all-state on bars, beam.

Washington-Lee senior Sophie Hatcher and Yorktown sophomore Juliette Mitrovich each medaled at the VHSL individual state gymnastics meet on March 8.

Wednesday, March 11

Column: How Lucky Am I

You’ll note there’s no question mark after the “I.”

Friday, March 6

Spooky in Arlington

Annie Ruhe and Spook Ruhe kept each other company on her first Halloween.

Signature Stages ‘Kid Victory’ in Arlington

World premiere musical from composer John Kander and playwright Greg Pierce.

Signature Theater is staging "Kid Victory," the highly anticipated and chilling world premiere original musical from composer John Kander and playwright Greg Pierce from Feb. 17 through March 22.

The Parrot and the Microwave in Arlington

“Nimbu” is a bright green Alexandrine parrot who has demonstrated a certain amount of independence since coming to Arlington on Christmas morning 2013. Nimbu is a bigger, healthier version of the parrot we got in Crawford Market in Bombay in 1994, “Mitu,” who learned to imitate every squeaky thing in the house, particularly the microwave alarm.

Arlington's Scotti

Scottie loves playing soccer at the Madison Dog Park. — Phyllis Russo

Arlington: Archie’s Teachable Moments

Archibald Calvin Hamish MacBeth (aka Archie) is too smart. He is a three and a half year old Lakeland Terrier (think Airedale and shrink to the size of a breadbox), that we got six months after the death of our perfect Lakeland Murphy — who was named for Murphy Brown on the grounds that terriers are feisty.

Thursday, March 5

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Heaven and Earth in Arlington

The best of both for pets.

Many say faith and science are incompatible. But every so often, they appear together in unusual settings. One example is a local animal hospital.

Public Commission To Review Police Policy

Over some objections, Bulova launches ad hoc commission in wake of police shooting and obfuscation.

Supervisor Michael Frey did not mince words when voicing opposition to Chairman Sharon Bulova’s establishment of an ad hoc police commission on Tuesday, March 3.

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Fairfax County hosts first Inmate Resource Fair.

They’re hoping the third time will be a charm: 34-year-old Demeterius Spann of the Richmond Highway area of Alexandria and 29-year-old Nydale Sheppard of Reston have each been incarcerated three times.

Wednesday, March 4

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Discussing Future of Journalism

Longtime foreign correspondent Myron Belkind told an audience at Marymount University recently that immense opportunities remain in journalism.

Column: General Assembly Adjourns Sine Die

Commentary

The 2015 session of the General Assembly has officially adjourned. Bills I introduced that now await Governor McAuliffe's signature include legislation on issues from job placement and hospital patients' rights to tax refunds and ethics reform.

Column: Sole-Searching

There’s no denying the emotional fact that the CT Scan results I received and wrote about last week were a bit of a disappointment.

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Festival Highlights Local African-American History

The Drew Community Center hosted the 23rd annual Arlington Black History Celebration on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 28.

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Gymnasts Deal with Weather-Based State Meet Postponements

Hatcher’s hot streak interrupted, Mitrovich faces scheduling conflict.

Nine days after winning the all-around championship in the most competitive conference in the region, Washington-Lee gymnast Sophie Hatcher produced an even better score at the 6A North region meet on Feb. 11 and took home another title.

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Encore Stage & Studio Presents ‘Three Musketeers’

In 17th-century France, a poor young nobleman named D’Artagnan leaves home to join the famous Musketeers of the Guard – defenders of the King and masters of the rapier.

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Talking with Birds

One Arlington family discusses the joys of adopting several birds and a rabbit.

Thirteen-year-old Julia Adde delights in having her pet parrot, Boo Boo sit with her while she does her homework. Boo Boo, an eclectus parrot, was the fourth and most recent bird to join the Adde household.

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Arlington Public Schools Plan for Cuts

Facing a budget gap, Arlington superintendent plans series of tiered reductions.

With a funding gap of $13.6 million, Arlington Public Schools (APS) Superintendent Patrick Murphy’s proposed budget comes with a few extra potential cuts.

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Doggone Good Living in Arlington

Nothing puts a smile on a dog’s snout more than a trip to the dog park. Arlington County has eight dog parks ranging from grassy, tree-covered parks to synthetic turf with a solar-powered water feature for Fido to play in. These dog parks are the only public places in Arlington where dogs may be off leash.