Countywide

By SARAH RANKIN Associated Press

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia, the world’s largest data center hub, has released a long-delayed study that examined the state’s eastern region groundwater supply and the resource-hungry industry’s possible impact on it, finding declines are likely in a critical aquifer due to population growth and industrial use, and urging stricter regulations.


News

A man who pleaded guilty to raping a high school friend and then hiding her body in a wooded area of Springfield will spend the next seven decades in prison.

Fairfax County Circuit Court Judge Jonathan Frieden sentenced Terence Bridgett Jr. today (Friday) to more than two life terms in prison today, suspending all but 70 years, Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano announced.


Sponsored

Fall-A-Palooza Brings Seasonal Fun to Reston Station

Fall into the fun at Reston Station’s Fall-A-Palooza on Sunday, October 25, from 4–7 p.m. Celebrate the season with an afternoon of live music, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and harvest-inspired drinks at 1900 Reston Metro Plaza in Reston.

A live DJ kicks off the festivities from 4–5 p.m., followed by the cover band headliner Gonzo’s Nose from 5–7 p.m., bringing an energetic soundtrack to your fall afternoon.

Between songs, explore a petting zoo, let the kids bounce into the fun at the bounce house, or add a little sparkle with glitter tattoos. Outdoor games and a photo booth offer plenty of ways to play and capture the day, while Sip-n-Stroll lets guests enjoy a festive drink as they explore.

Come hungry for giant Bavarian pretzels, pies, apple cider donuts, cotton candy, gelato, and more. Toast the season with seasonal cocktails and spiked apple cider, or cozy up with hot apple cider and hot chocolate.

Gather your friends and family and make an afternoon of fall’s favorite flavors, lively entertainment, and seasonal fun at Reston Station.


News

Fairfax County police are emphasizing safety after a fatal collision between a 9-year-old boy riding an electric scooter and a minivan in Herndon’s Highland Mews neighborhood last night (July 23).

The driver of a 2012 Honda Odyssey had just turned left from Highland Mews Court into a parking area in the 3000 block of Madden Court, when the child struck the vehicle’s rear on the passenger side, the Fairfax County Police Department said during a press conference today (July 24).


Around Town

When the Broadway hit “Dear Evan Hansen” opens tonight (Friday) at South Lakes High School in Reston, it will represent more than the launch of a new show.

For some students and recent graduates of Fairfax County Public Schools, the performance marks their debut in a true community theater setting, thanks to a new partnership with the Reston Community Players (RCP).


Event

Join the Do It for Dan Foundation for our annual fall fundraiser supporting lung cancer research at Inova Schar Cancer Institute. Enjoy live music, trivia, raffles, foundation updates, and a special presentation from thoracic oncologist Dr. Janakiraman Subramanian. Help us raise $10,000 to advance research and better treatment options for people facing lung cancer.


News

Head’s up to Fairfax County travelers: Metro rides into D.C. might take longer than usual this weekend due to planned track work.

Orange Line trains will single track between the Vienna and West Falls Church stations tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday (July 26), the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority announced earlier this week.


Opinion

Whether you’re looking for a routine eye exam or more intensive care, there are optometrists and ophthalmologists working in Fairfax County who can see to your ocular needs.

Here are the nominees for “Best Eye Doctor in Fairfax” as part of our FFXnow Readers’ Choice Awards. Did we miss your favorite doctor below? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks. Be sure to cast your vote before 8:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7.

Voting for Best Chiropractors in Fairfax County is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday, July 31 at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Races for Runners in Fairfax County. The results are now official:

  1. Run Thru Reston Half Marathon & 5K
  2. Friends of Reston Fall 5K
  3. Reston Triathlon

Around Town

The Japanese department store Teso Life plans to open a new store in Seven Corners.

Fairfax County planning documents show the retailer has applied to renovate the space at 6164 Arlington Blvd in a building formerly occupied by CVS inside the Willston 1 Centre.


News

Residents of Reston and the Vienna area will soon have their interests represented by a new face on the Fairfax County Planning Commission.

Hunter Mill District Commissioner John Carter announced Wednesday (July 22) that he is retiring, making that his last meeting after almost nine years on the body charged with making land use and development-related recommendations to the county’s Board of Supervisors.


News

An overview of Fairfax County in Lego form is now on display at Tysons Corner Center.

The installation crafted by the Northern Virginia Lego User Group (NOVA-LUG) was unveiled at the mall near its future Dick’s House of Sport store Wednesday (July 22) as part of the county’s ongoing 250th anniversary celebrations.