A staff proposal to restrict future sales of cigarettes and vapes near Fairfax County schools and child-care facilities has drawn a mixed reaction from county supervisors.
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors directed staff in December to study options for regulating tobacco, nicotine and hemp products after the Virginia General Assembly adopted a law last year allowing localities to restrict sales from new businesses within 1,000 feet of a school or child care facility.
A Dumfries man will serve nearly 20 years in federal prison, primarily for his involvement in four different armed robberies in Fairfax County.
Dwayne Selman-Neville, 38, was sentenced yesterday (Thursday) to 19 years and two months of incarceration after pleading guilty on Oct. 11 to charges of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
Local colleges have joined the rush to support workers affected by the Trump administration’s broad purge of the federal government’s ranks.
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), the biggest public higher education institution in Virginia, launched a NOVA New Employment, Exploration and Transition program (NOVAnext) on Wednesday (March 12) that will give laid-off federal workers and contractors free access to select classes and employment workshops.
Maggie DeBoard is officially out as head of the Herndon Police Department.
The Town of Herndon announced yesterday (Thursday) that Captain Steven T. Pihonak has been appointed as its new police chief, just over a month after DeBoard was placed on administrative leave for reasons the town declined to disclose. Pihonak was serving in the role on an acting basis since Feb. 12.
Racist Graffiti Reported in Burke — “Fairfax County police are investigating racist and antisemitic graffiti spray painted near a school bus stop in Burke, Virginia. The graffiti was discovered Wednesday morning on utility boxes and neighborhood signs at the corner of Burke Centre Parkway and Wheaton Drive.” [NBC4]
Regional Leaders Seek to Step Up Response to Trump Admin — “After weeks of playing defense, some D.C.-area leaders are now considering a more aggressive approach to the Trump administration.” Braddock District Supervisor James Walkinshaw stressed at a COG meeting that the region needs to “continue to fight.” [ARLnow]
Police Seek Tips in Missing Woman Case — “City of Fairfax Police are asking the public’s help in locating Amanda L. Childess. She has not been heard from since she disappeared on March 6, 2022 under suspicious circumstances. Investigators have gathered evidence that indicates Childess may have been the victim of foul play, according to police.” [Patch]
Relief Available for Businesses Affected by Drought — “Fairfax County small businesses hit by last July’s drought still have time to get help. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest loans to businesses suffering financial losses, but you must apply before April 7, 2025.” [Fairfax County Emergency Information]
Court Renovations Coming to Wakefield Park — “The Fairfax County Park Authority plans to renovate the tennis and pickleball courts at Wakefield Park in Annandale and expand the number of dedicated pickleball courts. Construction is expected to begin in early April.” [Annandale Today]
Free Lyft Rides Offered for St. Patrick’s Day — “The Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) is offering free Lyfts this Saturday, March 15, through Monday, March 17. WRAP’s 2025 St. Patrick’s Day SoberRide program hopes to prevent drunk driving throughout the area.” [Northern Virginia Magazine]
Agreement to Preserve Historic Oakton Schoolhouse — “On March 7, 2025, the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Greater Oakton Community Association officially finalized a Memorandum of Agreement to support the historic Oakton Schoolhouse … Under the MOA, GOCA will use the Oakton Schoolhouse for events, meetings, rentals, historical presentations, classes, theater productions and educational programs.” [FCPA]
It’s Friday — Patchy fog will dissipate by 9am, leading to initially cloudy conditions that will gradually become mostly sunny with the temperature reaching around 59. For Friday night, patchy fog will return after 3am. The sky will see increasing clouds, and temperatures will drop to around 44. [NWS]
The General Assembly has given the green light for state researchers to launch studies on removing books in public school libraries, the funding methodology used to determine judicial allocations and the total cost of coastal storm risk management.
The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, which conducts analysis and provides oversight of state agencies on behalf of the legislature, is responsible for the studies. Research completed by JLARC often prompts new legislative proposals and changes to governance.
Land currently zoned for industrial use across Fairfax County could be converted to residential zoning in an effort to bring more housing stock to the county.
As part of a larger “Plan Forward” initiative started in 2022, Department of Planning and Development (DPD) staff have proposed amending the county’s comprehensive plan to allow more flexibility for industrial land to turn into residential development, while also retaining some designated industrial areas.
George Mason University (GMU) Board of Visitors approved a resolution late last month aimed at combatting antisemitism, despite concerns about language that opponents fear could restrict free speech on the public school’s campuses.
Debate at the board’s meeting on Feb. 27 highlighted grey areas where the policy could be used as a cudgel against pro-Palestinian protestors and crack down on discussions about the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
For more than 60 years, Reston has stood as a model of a truly planned community. Founded by Robert E. Simon with the vision of creating a space where residents can live, work, and play, Reston has always prioritized quality of life and a sense of shared beauty. These guiding principles remain strong today, even as Reston has grown and evolved.
However, to preserve the unique qualities that make Reston such a special place to call home – from its scenic beauty to its vibrant, inclusive community – it’s crucial that we, as members of Reston Association, actively participate in shaping its future. That’s why voting in this year’s Board of Directors election is so important.
This year, two seats are open on the Board of Directors, and the individuals elected will play a key role in guiding the policies, priorities, and decisions that shape the future of our community. From approving the annual budget and assessments to ensuring the sustainability and resilience of our community, the decisions made by the Board have a direct impact on the quality of life in Reston. It is the Board’s leadership that helps maintain our property values, protects our community amenities, and ensures Reston remains a welcoming, vibrant place for all residents.
As a member of Reston Association, your vote is your opportunity to directly influence the direction of our community. By casting your ballot, you’re helping to elect the leaders who will work to keep Reston a place we can all be proud of, now and in the years to come. This election is about shaping the future of Reston – and your voice matters.
Ballots have already been mailed or emailed to all households within the Association. Please take time to review the candidates, understand their goals, and cast your vote. Whether you submit your ballot by mail or vote online, make sure to return it by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 31. Your participation is vital in ensuring a fair and representative election. Remember – 10% of eligible voters must submit ballots in order for the election to be valid.
The results will be announced at the 2025 Annual Members’ Meeting on Tuesday, April 8. All RA members are invited to attend the reception and meeting, though registration is required. The reception begins at 6:30 p.m.; the meeting will start at 7:00 p.m.
Don’t let this opportunity to have a say in Reston’s future pass by – vote today and help ensure our community continues to thrive for generations to come.
By Richard Chew, Chair, RA Elections Committee
For students looking to freshen up their look for an upcoming school dance, Reston Community Center (RCC) has you covered.
The community center will bring back its annual Diva Central Formal and Prom Dress Giveaway for a 23rd year on Saturday, March 22. The one-day-only event at RCC Lake Anne (1609-A Washington Plaza North) offers students an opportunity to pick out formal clothes and accessories for free.
