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Fairfax County Public School Named 2012 Excellence.gov Award Finalist

2012-02-20T09:33:00.002-05:00

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is one of six finalists for the 2012 Excellence.gov award in the category Excellence in Enhancing the Customer Experience. The school district was recognized for its Information Technology service catalog.

The Excellence.gov Awards were created in 2001 by the American Council for Technology and Industry Advisory Council (ACT-IAC) to acknowledge and recognize government programs that use information technology (IT) to advance the business of government in an effective, efficient, and innovative manner.

Winners will be announced at a luncheon in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, March 13. For more information, visit www.actgov.org/education/awards.

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Express Lane Construction on the Capital Beltway I-495 Tysons Corner

2012-02-20T07:36:00.008-05:00

Express Lane Construction on the Capital Beltway I-495 Tysons Corner Looking North at the Intersection of Route 267 the Dulles Greenway.

Photo by Trevor Wrayton, VDOT

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Video: Friends of the Reston Library Used Book Sale

2012-02-19T13:31:00.003-05:00

The Friends of the Reston Regional Library are an active group of volunteers who support the Library through ongoing and special semi-annual book sales. Through the generosity of the Friends, the Reston Regional Library has been able to: sponsor special children's programs and other cultural events, fund new service desks, needed furniture, equipment and supplies.

For more information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/friends/rr/.

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VDOT's Safety Service in Action

2012-02-18T13:22:00.005-05:00

VDOT's Safety Service Patroller Michael Musgrove at work in Fairfax County.

Photo by Trevor Wrayton, VDOT

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Left Turns Return to Fair Lakes Parkway onto Fairfax County Parkway

2012-02-17T12:27:00.002-05:00

This past Thursday, Feb. 16, Fairfax County motorists were once again be able to make left turns from Fair Lakes Parkway onto Fairfax County Parkway. For the past six months, motorists have been detoured onto Fair lakes Circle while crews build an interchange.

VDOT reports that the entire project is scheduled for completion in 2013. The $69.5 million interchange at Fairfax County Parkway and Fair Lakes Parkway will improve pedestrian and cyclist access, widen more than three miles of the Fairfax County Parkway, and improve traffic flow by separating local and Parkway traffic through this busy area. Visit the project webpage for more details.

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Trout Fishing

2012-02-17T09:54:00.008-05:00

The spring trout fishing season at Lake Fairfax Park is approaching fast, and anglers are eager to reel in the big one. Beginning today, Friday, February 17, Cast-a-Line Trout Farm of Goshen, Va., will begin delivering 4,500 pounds of rainbow trout. Stocking occurs every other Friday throughout the season at 11 a.m. (March 2, 16, 30; and April 13).

Beginning this year, staff will not be on-site every day during the season; however, designated volunteers will be present to collect fees for daily passes and monitor the fishing program. Volunteers will also ensure rules and regulations are followed.

Trout fishing passes will be required at the park through April 27. Daily trout pass fees are $12 for ages 16-64; $6 for children ages 6-15; and $6 for seniors age 65 and older. Season passes are $45 for ages 16-64; $40 for children ages 6-15; and $40 for seniors age 65 and older.

For more information, click here.

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Three Major Parkways Now Primary Roads

2012-02-16T19:21:00.000-05:00

The Commonwealth Transportation Board approved the transfer yesterday of the Fairfax County Parkway, Prince William Parkway and Franconia-Springfield Parkway to primary roads, making them eligible for new funding and maintenance priorities.

As primary roads, the routes can receive federal funding for paving, guardrail, bridge improvements and other projects. Federal funding typically covers 80 percent of the cost to maintain interstates and primary roads, with the remaining 20 percent from state funds.

The Fairfax County Parkway (Route 7100), which runs from Route 1 to Route 7, will be renamed Route 286. The 32-mile road carries between 22,000 and 75,000 vehicles per day.
The Franconia-Springfield Parkway (Route 7900), which runs from Beulah Road to the Fairfax County Parkway, will be renamed Route 289. The 4-mile road carries between 53,000 and 57,000 vehicles per day.
The Prince William Parkway (Route 3000), which runs from Route 1 to Route 234, will be renamed Route 294. The 16-mile road carries between 25,000 and 54,000 vehicles per day.

Over the next three months, VDOT will replace signs with the new route numbers and add additional signs indicating “Old Route 7100,” “Old Route 3000,” and “Old Route 7900.” Drivers will see the old route number alongside the new route number for about a year so that hotels, businesses, map companies, etc. have ample time to update their materials.

Roads may be considered for the transfer from secondary to primary when they meet a majority of certain criteria, such as carrying a minimum traffic volume; carrying a minimum percentage of out-of-state, truck, tractor-trailer, or bus traffic; and serving as a link for highways, county seats or sites of historic or scenic interest.

There are now about 470 miles of primary roads in northern Virginia, and 8,000 miles of primary roads statewide.

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Volunteers Sought at Sully Historic Site

2012-02-16T06:50:00.004-05:00

Sully Historic Site is looking for volunteers with an interest in 18th and 19th century history and museums. Volunteers will work alongside historians to help preserve and interpret the 1794 home of Richard Bland Lee, Northern Virginia's first representative to Congress. One of Fairfax County's historic treasures, Sully is a unique location for volunteers to donate their time and talents.

Learn more...

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Fairfax County Emergency Management Officials Advise Residents to be Prepared for Winter

2012-02-15T13:54:00.000-05:00

Reprinted from Fairfax County's Weekly Agenda, Feb. 9, 2012:

Fairfax County’s emergency information blog provides updated weather and operating status information.
Stay informed through county tools and resources (mobile apps, Facebook, Twitter).
Sign up for the Community Emergency Alert Network (CEAN). Alerts can be sent to any or all technology devices: email account (work, home, other); cellphone (text message costs may apply); pager; PDA.
The Winter Weather Preparedness Web page offers tips and links on a wide variety of topics, such as road conditions and snow removal; freezing pipes and plumbing; people with disabilities; preventing injuries; and more.
Check out a range of important phone numbers that can be added to your phone contacts before an emergency.

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Fairfax County School Board Approves Advertised FY 2013 Budget

2012-02-14T09:39:00.002-05:00

The Fairfax County School Board has adopted the FY 2013 Advertised Budget of $2.4 billion, an increase of 8.9 percent, or $200.6 million, from the FY 2012 Approved Budget.

The FY 2013 budget includes 741.3 new positions, most of which are being added to address membership growth—projected to be 181,608 in FY 2013—and student demographic changes. Extended learning time for students and extended time for teachers are included in the budget, as are compensation increases for employees.

More details...

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Sign Falls on I-66; VDOT Investigating

2012-02-13T21:33:00.000-05:00

The Virginia Department of Transportation is conducting a detailed investigation into what caused a 30-foot tall cantilevered sign structure to collapse onto the eastbound travel lanes of Interstate 66 near Monument Avenue in Fairfax at 2:48 p.m. yesterday. The structure struck a pick-up truck but did not cause any injuries.

“This is a very serious matter and I want to assure motorists and the public that VDOT will get to the bottom of what caused the collapse so we can prevent this from happening again,” said VDOT Commissioner Greg Whirley. “We will take the appropriate actions needed to assure the safety of our structures. I will oversee this investigation, including keeping the public informed.”

VDOT inspects its sign structures at least every five years. The fallen structure was last inspected in December 2007 and ultrasonic testing of the anchor bolts was performed since the 2007 inspection.

Bridge engineers were at the scene of the accident yesterday afternoon to begin the investigation, which will likely take several weeks.

At about the same time the structure fell, a fast-moving snow squall passed through the area. It is unclear whether the storm was a factor in the collapse.

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Submit Chocolate Challenge Applications by Feb. 17

2012-02-13T09:59:00.005-05:00

George Mason University Department of Nutrition and Food Studies has taken over the popular Chocolate Challenge, giving it a new home in its facilities in Old Town Fairfax.The event will be held at the school's Nutrition Kitchen, 3950 University Drive (adjacent to last year's location).

Celebrity judges for this event include: Warren Brown of CakeLove and formerly of the Food Network's Sugar Rush; Norman R. Davis and Zane Beg of The Sweet Life Cakery in Annandale, Va., who have appeared on multiple Food Network challenges; and City of Fairfax Mayor Robert F. Lederer.

Applications for both professional and amateur participants will be accepted through February 17. Check the event rules and regulations for details.

The Chocolate Challenge previously was sponsored by the Independence Day Celebration Committee, which has taken on the Taste of Chocolate this year in Old Town Hall.

The Chocolate Lovers Festival will be held March 3-4 in Old Town Fairfax. Visit the News page of the Chocolate Lovers Festival website for more information.

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Fort Belvoir Shares Progress with Local Community

2012-02-12T08:03:00.001-05:00

Mount Vernon residents learned about the growth and development of Fort Belvoir during the 25th annual Town Hall, at Mount Vernon High School, Saturday, that according to the Belvoir Eagle.

Garrison Commander, Col. John Strycula, provided an overview of Fort Belvoir after Base Realignment and Closure at the event hosted by Mount Vernon District Supervisor, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Gerry Hyland.

Strycula addressed the significant growth and development from 1912 to now, noting the installation's centennial celebration this year. He also mentioned the new Wounded Warrior complex and Family support center expected to be complete in the next 11 months.

During the meeting, U.S. Congressman Gerry Connolly, Virginia's 11th District, U.S. House of Representatives, addressed the topic of traffic on and around Belvoir. Connolly said he was proud of the partnership with Belvoir and glad Fort Belvoir's Garrison Commander was there to discuss the issue of traffic due to BRAC.

Read the complete article.

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Video: Starting a Business in Fairfax County

2012-02-11T10:48:00.009-05:00

Is your business new to Fairfax County? For entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in Fairfax County, a range of resources exist to help in your new venture.

Monthly, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority offers a "Entrepreneurship 101: Starting a Business in Fairfax County" seminar. Representatives from the FCEDA, State of Virginia and the Small Business Administration give helpful presentations.

For more information, visit www.fairfaxcountyeda.org.

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McLean Community Center Seeks Candidates for Governing Board

2012-02-10T14:36:00.007-05:00

The McLean Community Center (MCC) is seeking candidates to run for open seats on its 2012-2013 Governing Board. MCC’s board provides oversight and guidance for MCC programs and facilities, including the Robert Ames Alden Theatre and the Old Firehouse Teen Center. MCC is an agency of Fairfax County Government, with its primary location at 1234 Ingleside Avenue.

Candidates must be residents of the Center’s tax district (Dranesville Small Tax District 1A) in order to be eligible to run for a seat on the 11-member board. In order to have their names placed on the ballot, candidates are required to obtain the signatures of 10 McLean tax district residents in their respective categories, either adult or youth.

Nominating petition forms will be available at the Center beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21. The deadline for filing completed petitions is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 23. Voting will be held during McLean Day from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, at Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road. Absentee Voting also is permitted from Monday, April 9, to Wednesday, May 16.

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Video: Fairfax County's Underground Railroad

2012-02-09T11:38:00.001-05:00

Take a look at places, court records and letters in the county's significance to the history of the Underground Railroad.

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Herndon Names New Police Chief

2012-02-08T22:37:00.000-05:00

The Town of Herndon, has announced the appointment of Maggie A. DeBoard to the position of Chief of Police. DeBoard assumes her new post on Monday, March 5.

DeBoard comes to the town’s top law enforcement position from the Fairfax County Police Department, where she has served for more than 25 years in positions of increasing responsibility, culminating in her current role as deputy chief, Investigations and Operations Support. Prior positions held by DeBoard include commander of the county’s helicopter division, commander of the special operations division, captain of the Franconia district station, and major of the division II patrol bureau. DeBoard began her career with the county in 1986 as a patrol officer.

DeBoard holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from George Mason University. She is also a graduate of the FBI’s National Academy, the Virginia Tech Institute for Leadership in Changing Times, the WestPoint Leadership Course and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Leadership in Police Organization Course.

DeBoard has extensive experience in community policing, training, leadership, officer safety, and collaborative efforts with other law enforcement agencies. As president of the Fairfax, VA-based Police Unity Tour, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, she is actively involved in fundraising for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund in Washington, DC.

As the chief of the Herndon Police Department, DeBoard assumes the helm of an agency that is nationally accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies as well as state accredited through the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. The department consists of 57 sworn officers and 15 support personnel. DeBoard succeeds Colonel Toussaint E. Summers, Jr., who retired from the department in November 2011.

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Hoecakes & Hospitality: Cooking with Martha Washington

2012-02-08T08:32:00.001-05:00

Beginning February 18, Mount Vernon invites visitors to experience a behind-the-scenes look at the Washingtons' kitchen through the new exhibition, Hoecakes & Hospitality: Cooking with Martha Washington.

On display inside the Donald W. Reynolds Museum, this temporary exhibition celebrates food at Mount Vernon and Martha Washington's role as early America's premier hostess.

Following food from the Estate's field to kitchen to table, visitors will see recipes and cookbooks that Martha treasured, pots that simmered in her kitchen, and fine tableware that made Mount Vernon's dining room fit for a president. For the first time ever, visitors to the Museum will experience scents as they explore the exhibition - smelling cinnamon, coffee, herbs and warm bread.

Hoecakes & Hospitality: Cooking with Martha Washington is included with general Estate admission: adults, $15; children ages 6-11, $7; and children under 5 are admitted free.

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Fairfax County Park Authority Board Taps Officers

2012-02-07T21:42:00.001-05:00

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has named its officers for 2012.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board is appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. These 12 appointees are comprised of one representative from each of the nine magisterial districts, plus three at-large members. The Park Authority Board sets policy and establishes priorities for the park agency. The board holds public meetings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. at park headquarters in the Herrity Building, adjacent the Government Center Complex.

Read more about the Park Authority.

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Herndon Seeking Committee Volunteers

2012-02-07T18:31:00.000-05:00

The Town of Herndon is seeking citizen volunteers to fill current vacancies on the Chestnut Grove Cemetery Advisory Committee. The committee provides guidance to the cemetery on future development general operations and rules and regulations. Town Manager Arthur A. Anselene appoints individuals to this committee, which meets one or two times annually, or as needed based on cemetery activities.

Individuals interested in serving should contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 703-435-6804 or by email at town.clerk@herndon-va.gov to receive a “Talent Bank” application.

Applications are also available on the town’s Web site — www.herndon-va.gov — click on “Government,” then “Town Council,” then “Talent Bank.”

All applications remain on file for one year, at which time individuals may either contact the clerk’s office to express their continuing interest or submit an updated application..

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Chocolate Lovers Festival is One Month Away

2012-02-04T00:13:00.000-05:00

The Chocolate Lovers Festival is almost here. The event is March 3-4 in Old Town Fairfax.

Applications are still available for the Chocolate Challenge -- the deadline to apply is February 17.

Get more info at: www.chocolatefestival.net.

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First Park Authority Listening Forum of 2012 Scheduled for February 16

2012-02-02T14:46:00.000-05:00

Fairfax County residents are encouraged to participate in an open discussion about parks with Fairfax County Park Authority Director John W. Dargle, Jr. on Thursday, February 16, at 7 p.m.

The Providence District Listening Forum at the Hunter House in Nottoway Park is the perfect place to share thoughts and concerns, and exchange ideas with Park Authority staff. Nottoway Park is located at 9537 Courthouse Road in Vienna, VA.

For more information call 703-324-8662.

View previous forum comments and items of discussion online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/listeningforums.htm.

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Fatal Crash Kills Fairfax County Pedestrian

2012-02-01T22:27:00.000-05:00

The Fairfax County Police report that a 69-year-old Mineral man was killed when he stepped into the street in an attempt to help a tractor-trailer backing out of a parking lot, and was struck by an oncoming vehicle. Police responded to the crash in the 2500 block of Fox Mill Road today, Wednesday, February 1, shortly after 11:30 a.m. The pedestrian, Basil Knick, was flown by helicopter to a local hospital and was pronounced dead a short time later.

The striking vehicle, a 2004 Saturn Vue, driven by 59-year-old Darryl Barnes of Sterling, was travelling westbound on Fox Mill Road prior to the crash. Barnes apparently did not see Knick in the roadway. He remained on the scene after the crash, and was charged with failing to pay full time and attention.

Crash reconstruction detectives continue to investigate the crash. Neither speed nor alcohol appear to be factors in this crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.

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Celebrate The Groundhog At Walney

2012-02-01T10:26:00.005-05:00

Meet the larger-than-life Walney groundhog tomorrow, Thursday, February 2. This is a great opportunity to learn the story behind Groundhog Day and some interesting facts about this unique animal. Join in the fun at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Visit the home of the Walney garden groundhog and play groundhog games.

Participants must be at least three years old. The cost is $5 per person. You can register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes or call 703-222-4664.

Ellanor C. Lawrence Park is located at 5040 Walney Road in Chantilly. For more information, call 703-631-0013.

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Economic Development Authority Adds Jobs to Local Economy

2012-01-31T18:15:00.000-05:00

Fairfax County EDA in 2011 worked with 159 companies and organizations adding more than 9,000 jobs to the local economy.

Of the 159 companies, 120 are U.S.-based businesses. The most prominent announcement during the year came from Bechtel, one of the world’s largest engineering, construction and projects management companies. It will relocate its Global Operations headquarters to Fairfax County from Maryland, creating 625 new jobs. Another high-profile announcement came from ITT Exelis, a spinoff from ITT Corporation that established its new corporate headquarters in Fairfax County and is adding 70 jobs to the county economy.

Read the full press release.

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