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Delegate Ken Plum's
Virginia e-News
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Commentary
Sustaining Virginia's Future
Delegate Kenneth R. "Ken" Plum
Of all the sources of information I cite in my weekly columns, none is quoted as frequently as The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis (www.thecommonwealthinstitute.org). The Institute is an independent staff of professionals who do analyses of state public policies with particular attention to the impacts on low and moderate income persons. Their July 2012 report, Frozen in Time: Virginia's Revenue System Can't Pull Its Weight, provides the documentation for this column.
In spite of the quarterly references in the news media that Virginia has a budget surplus, the fact of the matter is that according to The Commonwealth Institute Virginia's investment in education, transportation, and health care falls about $4.8 billion short compared to pre-recession levels. Far from having a budget surplus when revenue collections exceed projections, Virginia has actually had a budget shortfall in 10 of the last 12 years ranging from $214 million to upwards of $2 billion according to The Institute's analysis. The shortfalls have been masked by shifting costs to local governments, to parents through higher tuition rates, and to the use of federal stimulus monies. But the cracks in the system are starting to show as transportation congestion increases with inadequate funding for improvements, tuition fees are steeper than some parents can pay, and our mental health system continues to be inadequate.
The Institute calculates that fully taking into account the state's growing population and the rising costs of providing key services the Virginia legislature between FY 2007 and FY 2013 has underfunded K-12 education by $1.3 billion, health and human services by $512.2 million, and public safety by $326.1 million. The core of the problem as the report states is that "Virginia has serious structural problems in the way we raise the resources needed to provide for public services."
During the same time period of FY 2007 to FY 2013 Virginia's general fund revenue as a share of personal income dropped from 4.7 percent to 4.16 percent. That drop alone cost the state about $3.86 billion dollars. On the revenue side of the budget, The Commonwealth Institute concluded that "clearly Virginia has the capacity to do more with revenue generation to meet the needs of the state's families and workers. By addressing structural flaws in three key areas - the individual income tax, the corporate income tax, and the sales and use tax - we can make the state's system more productive and responsive to the 21st century economy."
I invite others to review the report and challenge its findings and conclusions. Otherwise, to sustain the Commonwealth in the future we will need to heed its recommendations to deal with the structural problems of the budget. That in part means addressing the adequacy of state revenues.
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Virginia Report on Comcast Channel 28
Tune in to Ken's weekly television program, Virginia Report, on Reston Comcast Channel 28 for public service programming. Ken interviews state and local leaders who are making news by making a difference. Watch these upcoming programs:
Tonight, September 5 at 10:30 p.m. - Alba Jaramillo, Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance - "Respectful, Healthy, and Safe Relationships"
Tuesday, September 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, September 12 at 10:30 p.m. - Trudy Harsh and Dr. Ted Moriak, The Brain Foundation - "Laura's House"
"Virginia Report" is also available online at www.rctv28.com/virginiareport.html for viewing on your computer or iPad. |
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Click to RSVP Here
Free for all Democratic Campaign Volunteers
email me at kenplum@aol.com for
campaign volunteer information
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All About Voting
Are You Registered to Vote?
You are eligible to register to vote if you satisfy all of the requirements below:
* A citizen of the United States
* At least 18 years of age by the next general election
* A resident of Virginia
You may register to vote year-round except during the 22 days prior to a General or Primary election, 13 days prior to a Special election, or 7 days prior to a Special election called by the Governor.
How do you register to vote?
* In person Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Fairfax Office of Elections, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323, Fairfax, Virginia 22035-0081.
* By mail. Pick up a Virginia Voter Registration Application at our public libraries, DMV offices, military recruitment offices, public assistance agency offices, our own North County Government Center in Reston, the Citizen Information Desk in the Fairfax County Government Center lobby, the Judicial Center information desk, or
* Call Delegate Ken Plum's office mornings at 703.758.9733 and ask for a Voter Registration Application Form to be mailed to you.
Mail your completed application to:
Fairfax County Office of Elections
P.O. Box 10161
Fairfax, VA 22038-8061
First-time voters in Virginia who register by mail must vote in person (either on Election Day or absentee in person) unless they are:
* Students
* Overseas Citizens
* Citizens with a disability or illness
* Active duty members of the military or their dependents
Absentee Voting in Person
Fairfax County Government Center
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323
Fairfax, VA 22035
September 21-October 16:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursdays: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
October 17 - November 2:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday Hours:
October 6, 13, 29, 27, November 3: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Office Closed On:
Monday, October 8, 2012 (Columbus Day)
Last Day to Vote Absentee In Person:
Saturday, November 3, 2012
In Person, Satellite Voting Location
North County Human Services Building
1850 Cameron Glen Drive
Reston, VA 20190
October 17 - November 3
Monday - Friday, 2:00 pm. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Absentee Voting by Mail
You may vote absentee, either by mail or in person, if you are unable to go to the polls on Election Day because you: are a student or the spouse of a student attending a school outside Fairfax County; will be away from Fairfax County on business; will be working and commuting for 11 or more hours between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.; will be away from Fairfax County on personal business or vacation; are unable to go to the polls because of illness or disability; are pregnant; are the primary caretaker of a confined family member; have a religious obligation; are confined awaiting trial; are confined having been convicted of a misdemeanor; are an election official; are on active duty in the military outside Fairfax County; are the spouse or dependent residing with a member of the military outside Fairfax County; are an overseas citizen whose most recent United States residents was in Fairfax County; are a designated representative of a candidate or a party inside the polls; are requesting a ballot for presidential and vice-presidential electors only (Ballot for other offices/issues will not be sent).
Date of First Mail-out: Approximately September 21
Last Day to Register to Vote (if not already registered at current address:
4:30 p.m. on Monday, October 15
Last Date to Apply for an Absentee Ballot by Mail
5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 30, 2012
For inclusion in the election, absentee ballots must be returned by 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 6, 2012.
Use the Fairfax County Electoral Board's Fillable Online Absentee Ballot Application to enter your information on the screen at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/absentee.htm. After you have entered your information, print, sign, and then return. OR print a blank Absentee Ballot Application Form available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/absentee.htm, enter your information by hand, sign, and then return. Mail to:
Office of Elections
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323
Fairfax, VA 22035
or
Office of Elections
Box 10161
Fairfax, VA 22038
or
Fax it to the Office of Elections at 703.324.3725
or
Email to absenteeballot@fairfaxcounty.gov or voting@fairfaxcounty.gov
If you are not able to get an Absentee Ballot Application online, feel free to call Delegate Ken Plum's office mornings at 703.758.9733 and request that one be mailed to you. |
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Bulletin Board
"Safe Phone Zones" Now in Virginia
Virginia now has "Safe Phone Zones" which include highway signs that direct motorists to Virginia's Safety Rest Areas and Welcome Centers where they can safely use their phones for calling, texting, surfing, and accessing mobile apps. Using the Safe Phone Zones allows people to take a break from driving by visiting a welcome center or rest area and making a phone call or answering texts in a comfortable, convenient, and safe environment. More information regarding Virginia's safety rest areas and welcome centers is at www.virginiadot.org/travel/map-rest-area.asp.
Virginia Bicyclist & Pedestrian Awareness Week September 9-15
The Virginia Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Week campaign running September 9-15 is a unique program that uses the collaborative effort of businesses, colleges, schools, municipalities, organizations, and individuals to deliver Share the Road messages to people all across the state. This year's theme is "Be Aware, Share the Road, Save a Life." Visit Drive Smart Virginia's website, www.drivesmartva.org, for information about becoming a partner and ordering materials.
Period to Run for Reston Community Center Board is Open
The open period for declaring your candidacy for the Reston Community Center Board is now open and runs through September 14. The Board of Governors is a nine-member body responsible for overseeing the operations of the RCC. All residents of Small District 5, age 18 or older, are eligible to run for appointment to the RCC Board of Governors. Candidates must complete a Candidacy Statement in order to have their names placed on the Preference Poll ballot. Candidacy Statements are available at the Center or online at www.restoncommunitycenter.com. The deadline for candidacy registration is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 14. The RCC Preference Poll is a community event held annually to select members to serve on the RCC Board of Governors. The Board of Governors establishes the overall policies for the Center and oversees its programs and budget. Board members also represent RCC at social, recreational, cultural, and educational activities in Reston. Each year, typically, candidates for three seats on the Board are subject to community preference poll with voting by residents and businesses. This year's preference poll will fill three positions for three-year terms on RCC's Board of Governors. Online and mail-in balloting and walk-in voting will be available from September 28 through October 12 until 5:00 p.m. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors established the RCC Board of Governors to represent the interests of the residents of Small District 5 on issues affecting the RCC. The RCC Board appointments are made by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors after residents of Small District 5 have made their preferences known in the annual poll. For more information on the 2012 RCC Preference Poll or Board of Governors, visit www.restoncommunitycenter.org.
Learn About Your Reston District
Meet your Reston Association director and learn about the issues and amenities in your area at one of these free upcoming meetings:
* Hunters Woods/Dogwood District - Hosted by Director Cheryl Beamer.
Wednesday, September 5, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Reston Association Conference Center, 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive
* North Point District - Hosted by Director Mike Collins
Wednesday, September 19, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Aldrin Elementary School, 11375 Center Harbor Road
* Lake Anne/Tall Oaks District - Hosted by Director Ken Knueven
Wednesday, October 10, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Reston Community Center at Lake Anne, 1690 Washington Plaza
* South Lakes District - Hosted by Director Richard Chew
Thursday, November 8, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Reston Association Conference Center, 12009 Sunrise Valley Drive
Auxiliary Police Officers Make a Difference
Are you interested in making a difference, too? Auxiliary police officers (APOs) make up an all-volunteer civilian force comprised of 108 men and women and play a vital role in supplementing the sworn personnel in essential public safety operations. They perform a myriad of duties such as staffing sobriety checkpoints, protecting the integrity of crime scenes, and may be deployed to natural or man-made disasters at any time. APOs come from a variety of backgrounds that enhance the Fairfax County Police Department with their unique sets of knowledge, skills, and abilities. Currently, there are doctors, lawyers, accountants, engineers, and reserve and retired military officers in the rich mix of APOs. A blend of retirees and employed, the APOs are individuals who like to learn and have the time to commit. Once they pass a rigorous background check, they are required to undergo trainings at the Criminal Justice Academy in Chantilly two evenings a week and a few Saturdays a month during 16-week academy slated to begin in January 2013. The Fairfax County Police Department is now accepting applications. To learn more about the APO program or to request an application, email AuxiliaryPolice@FairfaxCounty.gov.
Personal Property Tax Bills Due October 5
There are many convenient ways to pay your 2012 Personal Property (car) Tax bill and avoid waiting in line. Pay online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dta, or by mail with the envelope enclosed in your bill. Pay by cash with your bill at any Shoppers Food stores in Northern Virginia. The 2012 Personal Property Tax bill includes a $33 registration fee ($38 for vehicles in excess of 4,000 pounds) for cars normally located in the county. There is no county windshield decal to purchase or display. If you are permanently and totally disabled, or at least 65 years old, or a disabled veteran, you may qualify for tax relief. More information and forms are available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dta or by calling 703.222.8234. Personal Property Tax bills are due by October 5.
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Calendar of Events
Walk to save lives by joining the Fairfax NOVA Out of the Darkness Walk. Walk with thousands of other walkers nationwide to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) on Saturday, September 8, at George Mason University's Fairfax Campus. Check-in time is 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. You can register right up until Noon on Friday, September 7. Visit www.afsp.org and click on "Out of the Darkness Walks" at the top of the page. If you can't make the Walk, you can go to www.afsp.org and make a donation. The Out of the Darkness Community Walks are 3-5 mile walks taking place in over 250 communities across the country this year, with the proceeds benefiting AFSP. In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 15 minutes, claiming more than 36,000 lives each year. Walk to raise funds, honor a loved one, or support a friend who has experienced a loss as you walk this Saturday, September 8 at GMU.
The huge Community Yard Sale is this Saturday, September 8, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at Reston Association, 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive. Come by to browse for great bargains at this multi-family community yard sale. It will be big -- vendor space is sold out.
Browse the big Used Book Sale this Saturday and Sunday, September 8 and 9 Noon to 5:00 p.m. at St. Anne's Episcopal Church, 1700 Wainwright Drive, Reston. Proceeds will benefit the outreach program at St. Anne's. Visit with your neighbors and meet new friends while you purchase some great reading bargains!
Great Grapes! is Northern Virginia's premier casual wine tasting with hundreds of wines available for sampling this weekend, September 8 and 9, at Reston Town Center. Take your souvenir tasting glass as you enter the festival and stroll from tent to tent and table to table tasting and sampling the rich Heritage of Virginia vines. A 2-Day Adult Admission & Tasting Glass is $37 (advance only) and includes a souvenir wine glass and lanyard, unlimited samples, all performances, and cooking demos. An Adult Admission & Tasting Glass is $20 advance (online)/$25 on-site and includes a souvenir wine glass, unlimited samples, all performances, and cooking demos. A Designated Driver Ticket is $15 advance (online)/$20 on-site and includes admission into the event only. Kids 12 and under are free. As you sip and savor the afternoon, relax in the beautiful setting of the Reston Town Center. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy live music on the Main Stage or visit the Kids' Activity Area. Visit www.uncorkthefun.com/reston-virginia-fall/site-info for more information.
Prospective members of Useful Services Exchange (USE), a "time bank" or barter organization for residents of Reston and Herndon, are invited to the group's annual family picnic on Saturday, September 8, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the home of Kathy Deligianis and David Niemi, 2615 Penny Royal Lane, Reston. USE, founded in 1975, enables neighbors to help each other by bringing together people with various needs and people who can meet those needs. Members span all ages, from teens to seniors, and accounts are not kept in dollars but in hours of USE credit. For additional information, see www.Restonuse.org or call Marilyn Silvey at 703.860.5141.
Attend Herndon's first family fun festival -- "Grandparent's Day and the Classic Car Show" -- on Sunday, September 9, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Downtown Herndon. The festival is FREE and open to the public. This is also a great opportunity to be a vendor and promote your business all day for only $25, with proceeds going to provide scholarships for the Geriatric Nursing Program at George Mason University. Your $25 gets you an all-day vendor spot to greet everyone, hand out your cards and brochures, run a game, or give away a prize. Activities already signed up for this great event include the Herndon High School Robotics Team, face painting, crafts, horseshoes, story board, ring or beanbag toss, remote cars, music, swing dancers, Children's science Center Rocket Cars, and more! Sign up by August 12 at www.gpday.aarpdulles.org to get a prime site. Last minute signups will be accepted until September 2. Vendor sites are free for nonprofits. If you want to be a sponsor with your name prominently displayed everywhere at the event, visit www.aarpdulles.org.
Reston Hospital Center will host a Health & Wellness Screening on Tuesday, September 11, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Reston YMCA, 12196 Sunset Hills Road. Cost is $15 for blood pressure, total cholesterol (including HDL) and blood sugar screenings, payable by check only. For more information about this and future screenings, visit www.restonhospital.com and select Events & Classes.
The local chapter of the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy invites you to a free screening of Blank Street, a short documentary film about Virginians facing economic hardship, on Wednesday, September 12, 7:00 p.m., at the Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003. (NOTE: This is a different location from what was previously reported.) Blank Street is a documentary film about economic struggles in Virginia, the people experiencing them, and the idea of becoming involved in your community. Sponsored by the Virginia Interfaith Center and Half in Ten, the piece follows two Virginia Commonwealth University film students as they travel the state hearing firsthand about the economic hardships many families are experiencing. From the homeless to the wealthy, no one is exempt from the possibility of hard times. The overlooked stories of our neighbors are finally told in this short film.
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority will host a public hearing to inform and solicit comments from the community about proposed toll rate increases along the Dulles Toll Road beginning in 2013 to support the construction of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project and Dulles Toll Road improvements. The public hearing will be conducted in an open house format on Wednesday, September 12, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., at South Lakes High School Cafeteria, 11400 South Lakes Drive, Reston. There will be informational exhibits about the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, the cost and financing of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, the Dulles Toll Road and potential improvements that may be made to the Toll Road, the revenue anticipated to be raised as a result of the proposed toll rate increases, and how this additional revenue will be spent. Representatives from the Airports Authority will be present to discuss these items. The public comment period on the proposed toll rate increases will run through September 16. An "On-Line Open House" will be available on the Airports Authority website at www.mwaa.com/tollroad throughout the comment period. Comments may also be submitted at the public hearings or mailed during the comment period to: Dulles Toll Road Proposed Toll Rate Increases, 3900 Jermantown Road, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22030. For special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, citizens may call 703.934.4639 at least 10 days prior to the hearing.
A Design Public Hearing on the Dulles Connector Road (Route 267) will be held on Thursday, September 13, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at McLean High School, 1633 Davidson Road, McLean, VA, with a brief presentation beginning at 6:30 p.m. Find out about plans to construct sound walls on both sides of the Dulles Connector Road/Route 267, between Chain Bridge Road and Interstate 66 in Fairfax County. The sound walls will be built to mitigate noise from the Dulles Connector Road traffic and Dulles Metrorail, which is being constructed at-grade in the median of the Dulles Connector Road. Stop by between 5:00 and 8:00 pm. to view displays and learn about the project. VDOT staff will be available to answer your questions. Review project details at www.virginiadot.org, at the meeting, or during business hours at VDOT's Northern Virginia District Office at 4975 Alliance Drive in Fairfax. Please call ahead at 703.259.1795, 800-367-7623 or TTY/TDD 711 to ensure appropriate personnel are available to answer questions.
The Giving Circle of HOPE presents a panel discussion on caregiving, "Caregiving - Burden or Blessing? Are You Ready?" on Thursday, September 13, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Reston Community Center at Lake Anne, 1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston. Sixty-two million people in the United States provide unpaid caregiving to family and friends which is valued at $450 billion annually. A panel of experts will explore the "burdens and blessings" of this care to individuals and society. This will include a discussion of the changing dynamics of the role of the caregiver, the physical, emotional, and financial costs, and will identify resources available to the caregiver and the family. This event is free of charge and open to all. For more information, contact info@givingcircleofhope.org or 703.665.9334.
The public is invited to an informational Panel on Costs of Caregiving to be held on Thursday, September 13, 7:00 p.m., at the Reston Community Center at Lake Anne, 1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston. This event is free and is sponsored by The Giving Circle of HOPE. Sixty-two million people in the United States provide unpaid care giving to family and friends that is valued at $450 billion annually. But what are the physical, emotional, and financial costs to individual caregivers? The experts who will explore the "burdens and blessings" of caregiving to individuals and society are Sharon Lynn, Director, Fairfax County Agency on Aging; James L. Brooks, Associate State Director, AARP; and Judy Seiff, a caregiver. Moderator will be Pat Williams, founder and president of Graceful Care, a non-medical home care agency. The Giving Circle of HOPE is a Reston-based organization that promotes volunteerism and effective philanthropy. For more information, contact Rebecca Berntsen at 703.665.9334.
Join Reston Community Center and Reston Association for a 50s-themed Sock Hop Senior Social on Friday, September 14, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m., at the Reston Community Center at Hunters Woods, 2310 Colts Neck Road. Enjoy a sampling of treats while you meet new people and catch up with old friends. Learn about upcoming senior trips, classes, and events. For information, call 703.476.4500 or go to www.restoncommunitycenter.com.
The McLean branch of the American Association of University Women's Used Book Sale will be held at the McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean, on: Friday, September 14, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, September 15, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; and Sunday, September 16, Noon to 4:00 p.m. This event features 40,000 used books, CDs, and DVDs. Sunday is $7 a bag day. Call Juanita Cullen at 703.759.5112 with questions.
The 10th Annual Korean American Association of Washington Metropolitan Area (KAAW) presents the 10th annual KORUS Festival at Bull Run Park in Centreville for three days: Friday, September 14, 4:00 to 10:00 p.m.; Saturday, September 15, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; and Sunday, September 16, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Visit www.korusfestival.com to learn more about entertainment, activities, and food during this exciting celebration.
Enjoy an evening of music at the Mosaic Harmony Concert on Saturday, September 15, 7:00 p.m. at St. Anne's Episcopal Church, 1700 Wainwright Drive, Reston. This musical event is hosted by Global Camps Africa, Inc. Special guests for the evening will be five visiting counselors from Camp Sizanani in South Africa who will share stories and songs from their experience at camp. Mosaic Harmony, an interfaith, multicultural choir, draws on the rich heritage of African-American inspirational music to demonstrate and encourage unity in the midst of diversity. A reception will follow the concert with opportunity to talk to the counselors and learn more about Camp Sizanani. Visit www.globalcampsafrica.org for tickets to this dynamic evening of music and cultural sharing.
On September 17 and 18, Fairfax County welcomes Camara Jones, MD, MPH, PhD, Research Director on Social Determinants of Health and Equity in the Division of Adult and Communiy Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Jones is a family physician and epidemiologist whose work focuses on the impacts of racism on the health and well-being of the nation. Her work on race associated differences in health outcomes goes beyond documenting differences to vigorously investigating the structural causes of the differences. You are invited to a Leadership Challenge session together with colleagues from the community, faith, nonprofit, business, and public sectors - including human services, public safety, schools, and county government. Dr. Jones will present and discuss her framework that gets to the root causes of equity and explores how systems and structures influence health and well-being in communities. A new segment entitled, "When the Bough Breaks" from the Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? video series will also be viewed with discussion to follow. There are three sessions available to best accommodate your calendar. Please select only one and register at this link: http://tiny.cc/ncs-ddpet. Choose your session:
* Monday, September 17, 1:00 to 4:30 p.m., Fairfax County Government Center Board Auditorium
* Monday, September 17, 6:30 to 9:00 p.m., Auditorium, Mount Vernon High School, Alexandria
* Tuesday, September 18, 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Fairfax County Government Center Board Auditorium
There is no cost to attend, but registration is required due to limited seating.
Save the date and volunteer in your community at the 2012 Reston Multicultural Festival on Saturday, September 22, at Lake Anne Plaza! Volunteers are needed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 21, 22, and 23, for tasks including event set-up and break-down, monitoring parking, collecting surveys, assisting with children's activities, and selling concessions. Visit www.restoncommunitycenter.com/arts_community_MCFvolunteer.shtml for information about volunteering.
Usher in the first day of autumn with Shenandoah National Park Trust at The Shenandoah Scramble on Saturday, September 22. Hikers of all ability levels are invited to choose one of six guided hikes of varying length and difficulty in the national park. Participants will gather for a light breakfast at 8:00 a.m. at the Big Meadows Pinic Grounds and then head out to hike with their group and hike leader (each hike can accommodate up to 20 hikers). Leaders are CPR/First Aid or Wilderness Safety certified. They know and love Shenandoah National Park and will provide a wonderful experience. Participants reconvene for refreshments after their hikes. Registration is $25 per hiker ($10 for children 13 and under) and hikers agree to raise a minimum of $100 ($200 per family), which will support projects and programs in Shenandoah National Park. For more information, contact Susan Sherman, Executive Director of Shenandoah Natonal Park Trust at ssherman@snptrust.org.
On September 22, a celebration to mark the 20th anniversary of the Dulles Day Festival & Plane Pull will be held, Special Olympics Virginia's "heaviest" fundraiser. Since 1993, hundreds of teams have stepped up to the rope, pulled more than 3 million pounds in total and raised more than $1.5 million. Join the Plane Pull this week as this "weighty" milestone is celebrated. The fun begins with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. with activities including the Plane Pull, food, and items for sale from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Gates will close at 3:45. Not yet ready to pull a plane, but still want to help Special Olympics Virginia? Join the Plane Pull Volunteer Group. The Dulles Day Festival and Plane Pull is the perfect volunteer opportunity for individuals, families, and groups. Volunteers are needed to help with event set-up and take down, kids' activities, T-shirt sales, concessions, team check-in, parking, and staffing the VIP tent. Register, donate, sponsor, exhibit, join a team, and more at www.planepull.com.
Sign up for the "Rally for a Cause" Tennis Tourney on Saturday and Sunday, September 22 and 23, at Lake Newport Tennis Center, 11452 Baron Cameron Avenue. Matches begin at 9:00 a.m. This tournament will benefit Reston Interfaith, Heart, and Wounded Warrior Foundation. Sign up to play men's or women's singles or doubles. Players are guaranteed to play at least two matches. Trophies will be awarded by Reston Tennis pro staff and representatives from the benefiting organizations immediately following the finals matches. For more information or to register, visit www.restontennis.org or e-mail Rally4acause@restontennis.org.
You are invited to a Community Forum: "Building Justice Beyond Charity," on Thursday, September 27, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., at the United Christian Parish of Reston, 11508 North Lake Shore Drive, Reston. The Forum will focus on building awareness of social needs, causes and solutions; sharing tools for positive change in our community; and finding inspiration and determination together. There will be a panel discussion followed by small group discussions and Q&A with panelists. Refreshments will be served, and organizational tables will be open until 9:30 p.m. For more information, contact Louisa at 703.860.1203, or the UCP office at 703.620.3065.
Avid gardener Joe Belsan will discuss organic gardening, the basics of composting, and different types of gardens on Saturday, September 29, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Walker Nature Center, 11450 Glade Drive. Call 703.476.9689 to register your attendance.
The Reston-Dulles Section of the National Council of Negro Women will hold its Fall 2012 Smooth Jazz Luncheon on September 30, 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., at the Sheraton Reston Hotel. The Smooth Jazz Luncheon will feature jazz artist Lori Williams and Friends along with hat, jewelry, and cosmetics vendors and a variety of great items on silent and live auctions. Delegate Ken Plum will serve as the "celebrity auctioneer" for the live auction. Ticket price is $65 per person. For tickets, call Ms. Ruby Hamilton at 703.476.5635, or contact Ms. Janine Stegall at 703.608.9739 or restondullesncnw@gmail.com.
Join in the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's on Sunday, September 30, at the Reston Town Center. Check-in is at 5:00 p.m.; Walk begins at 6:00 p.m. followed by a Candlelight Rally at 7:00 p.m. Delegate Ken Plum will be on hand to welcome the walkers for this important event. This is the nation's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support, and research. Register online at www.alz.org/nca. For more information, call 800.272.3900.
The Second Annual "Fore" the Kids Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, October 1, 7:30 a.m., at Hidden Creek Country Club, 1711 Clubhouse Road, Reston. This great tournament benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington. For information, contact Jim Hyland at Jim@pennsylvaniaavenuegroup.com or 703.973.3830.
Go on a Civil War Tour of the Hunter Mill Road Corridor on Tuesday, October 2, 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Board a bus at Reston Community Center at Hunters Woods at 8:30 a.m. and return around 1:00 p.m. after enjoying a four-hour narrated excursion that will visit the locations of skirmishes, encampments, graves, and historical structures while traveling from Reston to Vienna, Oakton, and up Hunter Mill Road. The tour will also incorporate relevant history from the 1700s-1900s, bringing to life the rich history of the lcoal citizenry, soldiers, and raiders. Trip fee, which is $15 (Reston residents)/$30 (non-residents) includes the Hunter Mill Road Civil War Self-Guided Tour illustrated booklet and your round-trip transportation. RCC will provide water and snacks. Register at www.restoncommunitycenter.com or 703.476.4500.
The Governor's Conference on Energy will be held October 2-4 at the Richmond Convention Center, Richmond, VA. This conference brings together energy innovators and veteran business leaders with educators, researchers, entrepreneurs and policy makers, in the Energy Capital of the East Coast, to talk about implementing an "all of the above" strategy for meeting the future with abundant, reliable and affordable domestic energy. Find out how to sponsor, exhibit, or attend at www.vachamber.com. This event is hosted by the Virginia Chamber of Commerce.
Come out to Reston Town Center on Thursday, October 4 at Noon for a Walk to End Homelessness, proudly presented by Mayflowers A Floral Studio at Reston Town Center. The walk will go from Mayflowers on the Promenade to the Embry Rucker Community Shelter, and end back at Mayflowers. Visit www.restoninterfaith.org for more information.
The Fairfax Pets on Wheels will hold its 17th annual Paws for a Cause 3K Walk on Sunday, October 7, at Noon. The doggone fun begins at Weber's Pet Supermarket, 11021 Lee Highway in Fairfax. All preregistered participants will receive a Paws for a Cause T-shirt. There will be human and canine treats at each kilometer, and sponsored walkers are encouraged. Registration is $20 prior to September 18 and $25 after. Register online at www.tiny.cc/walk2012 or go to www.fpow.org. Walk-in registrations are welcome. Potential walkers and businesses interested in providing sponsorship or donating door prizes for participants should call 703.324.5424, email dfspetsonwheels@fairfaxcounty.gov, or go to www.fpow.org. Fairfax Pets on Wheels is an all-volunteer program sponsored by the Fairfax Agency on Aging. The program provides pet therapy with teams of animals and their human companions who regularly visit area long-term care facilities.
The Alzheimer's Association will present a program on "Healthy Brain Aging" on Tuesday, October 9, 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. OR on Wednesday, October 24, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Reston Community Center Hunters Woods, 2310 Colts Neck Road. The presentation will identify three areas (mind, heart, person) that affect the brain. Strategies for how to keep each of the three areas healthy will be discussed as well as practice exercises to assist in keeping the brain active and fully charged. This event is free, but you must register at www.restoncommunitycenter.com or call 703.476.4500.
Sign up to walk on Sunday, October 14 for the 9th Annual Help the Homeless Community Walk at Reston Heights Hotels, 11750 Sunrise Valley Drive. Registration opens at 12:00 Noon, and the Walk begins at 1:30 p.m. After the Walk, enjoy Festival on the Square with live music, food, games for all ages, and more. This year, Reston Interfaith has set the goal of having 4,000 walkers join the Help the Homeless Program, which raises awareness and provides support to prevent and end homelessness in our community. Bring all your favorite people, and make a difference in ending homelessness. Visit www.restoninterfaith.org for more information.
You can help prevent bullying! Learn strategies to prevent bullying at school and online, learn about the signs of direct and indirect bullying, why children with special needs are targeted, how teachers can help, and how parents can help. Attend "You Can Prevent Bullying! Tips & Skills for Parents of Children with Special Needs" on Wednesday, October 16, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows Road, Dunn Loring, VA (Entrance 1, Room 100). See a map and directions at http://commweb.fcps.edu/directory/map_base.cfm?locid=5101. Get more information by calling the Fairfax County Public Schools Parent Resource Center at 703.324.3941.
Need help understanding Medicare? Howard Houghton of the Fairfax County Area Agency on Aging will lead an enlightening discussion about Meicare on Tuesday, October 23, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Reston Community Center at Hunters Woods. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about Medicare from an expert in the field. Cost is free; register by calling 703.476.4500 or go to www.restoncommunitycenter.com.
Attend a most unique historical marker unveiling with an illumination commemoration honoring the 26 Civil War Veterans Interred at Flint Hill Cemetery, 2845 Chain Bridge Road, Oakton, on Saturday, October 27, at 6:00 p.m. This unveiling will occur near the intersection of Chain Bridge and Courthouse Roads. Enjoy speakers and live period music along with hot cider and cookies. Parking at Oakton Church of the Brethren. Please RSVP to info@flinthillcemetery.org.
Save the date - November 10, 2012! Plan on attending Fairfax County's 8th Annual History Conference, "Courage & Conflict in Fairfax County." This conference will feature Gregg S. Clemmer, award winning author of Valor in Gray, living history presentations, reenactments, and more. The Conference will run from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Your registration fee of $20 includes Continental breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, exhibits, authors, trivia contest prizes, and parking. For further information and to receive a registration form/brochure, send your name, address, and email to lynnegarveyhodge@verizon.net. This event is sponsored by the Fairfax County History Commission, Fairfax County Sesquicentennial Committee, Fairfax County Park Authority, Fairfax Museum & Visitor Center, and Preservation Virginia/Northern Virginia Branch. |
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