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Week of 12-19-2007: Loudoun County News from Loudouni.com

2007-12-24T06:52:00.000-08:00

Read all news, editorial, sports, calendar and special events at Loudouni.com!

Alternative Gift Fair Receives NEW Support

The St. Gabriel’s Alternative Gift Fair has been extremely successful this year. The Alternative Gift Fair provides a venue for donors to make contact with various charitable agencies in Loudoun. By providing a central location for donations, St. Gabriel’s has been able to encourage donors to give gifts of charity for the holidays, helping people make donations in memory of a loved one or as a special gift for the people in their lives. Thus far, the Alternative Gift Fair has raised over $25,000.

The Alternative Gift Fair’s most generous donor this year has been NEW Customer Service Companies, based in Sterling. NEW donated an initial amount of $2500 in a community challenge with local businesses and residents. After that, employees at NEW donated $2000 to the gift fair which was matched by the NEW Corporate Foundation. NEW has donated $6500 to be distributed among 13 area agencies.

Farewell to the Board of Supervisors 03-07

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors elected to office in 2003 convened their last Board meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18. For Mick Staton, Jim Clem, Steve Snow, and Bruce Tulloch, this was the last meeting as members of the Board of Supervisors after their respective losses in the Nov. 7 election. The four departing supervisors offered comments on service, record, accomplishment and appreciations.

Mick Staton (R-Sugarland Run) spoke first and announced that he and his wife welcomed a new baby on Dec. 14, Adam Joseph Staton. Staton said he knew what he would be doing with his time now that he will not be serving on the Board of Supervisors. Staton said he was “proud of my time here,” describing an interesting time of “ fights and laughs, but more laughs”.

The Toy Drivers

Tim and Mary Holmes, owners of Go Bananas Toy Store in Brambleton, delivered $3500 worth of toys to the “Out of the Box” Toy Drive. Go Bananas held a toy drive at their store where customers purchased $1500 worth of toys for charity. The remaining $2000 worth of toys was donated by the store. Thank you to Go Bananas and the community for their generosity this Holiday season.

The Secret Santa

For the third year, a mysterious benefactor delivered a large amount of toys to Galilee United Methodist Church in Sterling. An attached note read "To God give glory and praise. The Lord has seen fit to bless us in so many ways we would like to share that blessing with others. We know that Galilee will see that these toys reach those who need them most. And may they know that Jesus loves them very much. The donor remains anonymous, but their selfless gifts have warmed the hearts of the people at Galilee United Methodist.

Suspicious Death of Ashburn Teen

The Loudoun County Sheriff’s office is seeking the public’s assistance as the investigation continues into the “suspicious death” of Rodrigo Nicolas Vitullo, 19 of Ashburn. Virtullo’s body was found on Thursday, Dec. 13, lying under a few pine trees over an embankment near a sidewalk in a residential Ashburn neighborhood.

Authorities have learned Virtullo was with friends at a home in Ashburn Village Wednesday night before two of the friends dropped him off at his home on Ardmore Street in Broadlands around midnight. Virtullo may have been walking to a home in the Ashburn Farm neighborhood where his body was found. He was wearing only a t-shirt and jeans, no jacket. Investigators are hoping someone may have noticed Virtullo or seen him, given he was underdressed for the cold night temperatures.

Deputy Arrested for Embezzlement

Michael Cedric Henry, 46, of Fredericksburg, Va, a former Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office deputy was charged last week with embezzling over $6,000 from the County.

Henry, who is charged with felony embezzlement, turned himself over to Fauquier County authorities on Friday. He was released on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond.

Henry allegedly falsified his timesheet between February and September 2007, according to the Sheriff’s office announcement. Loudoun authorities began an administrative investigation in October, which was then handled by the Sheriff’s office Criminal Investigations Division.

Henry worked in the Corrections Division and had been employed by the Sheriff’s office since July 2002, according to the Sheriff’s office announcement.

Power Outages Across Loudoun

Sunday’s ice and high winds left thousands of Loudoun residents without power. Two western Loudoun schools closed early due to their lack of power and heat. Wind gusts Sunday evening approached 50 mph at Dulles International Airport. Trees and power lines were reported down in several western areas of the County.

An important traffic light in eastern Loudoun County was a victim of the winter weather as were the Loudoun County Sheriff's department deputies who were called into action to direct traffic at the Route 7/Ashburn Village Boulevard intersection. Sheriff's spokesman Kraig Troxell said deputies were on the scene from the early Sunday morning hours until around 10 a.m., Monday, when traffic light became operational.

12-19-2007 - Neighborhood News from Loudouni.com

2007-12-24T06:45:00.000-08:00

Ashburn

Babes in Toyland

The Ashburn Library will be screening “Babes in Toyland at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 27. Bring along your pillows and blankets to get comfortable and don’t forget the snacks.

Double Indemnity

The Ashburn Library will be screening “Double Indemnity” on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 7pm as part of its Film Noir series. This 1944 film stars Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck, and Edward G, Robinson. The program is recommended for adults.

Family Concert

Mr. Knick Knack, an energetic family entertainer, will be performing at Ashburn Library at 3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 28. Free tickets are required and may be picked up a half hour prior to the performance. This show is recommended for all ages.

Teen Reading Buddies

The Ashburn Library is looking for teen volunteers to read books to young children (ages 3-5) on Mondays at 4:30 p.m. in January in February. Stop by the Ashburn Library Information Desk for more information.

Yoga for Kids

Ashburn Library will host Charlotte Freckman and a “Yoga for Kids” program at 1 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 7. The program is recommended for children, ages 4-6. Registration is required. Call 703-737-8100 or visit www.lcpl.lib.va.us to register.

Sterling

The NEW Sterling Annex Community Center

The Sterling Annex Community Center has now moved to its new location at 46111 Loudoun Park Lane in Sterling, part of the Claude Moore Recreation Center. The center will now be called the Claude Moore Community Center. All of the activities, licensed preschool, special events, camps, and other programs have now moved to the new location. The contact number for the Claude Moore Community Center is 571-258-3500.

Kindertots & Kindermotion

New Kindertots and Kindermotion classes are forming at the Claude Moore Community Center. Classes will be held on Wednesdays from Jan. 2 through March 5. The cost is $125 per child. Pre-registration is required. Kindertots for age 2, allows tots to explore creative movement and develop gross motor skills while learning colors, numbers, shapes and songs. Kindermotion for ages 3 to 5 is an academic blend with floor gymnastics and fitness movement activities to stimulate faster thought patterns and reflex actions. Call 571-258-3500 for more information.

Lions Club Wrestling Tournament

The Wrestling Team of Park View High School hosted the Sterling Lions Club’s 29th Terry McGowan Invitational Wrestling Tournament on Dec. 15. Eight teams from Virginia and Pennsylvania traveled to Sterling to compete. Park View High School tied for second place with West Potomac High School of Alexandria, VA. The tournament winner was Bishop Dennis O’Connell High School of Arlington, VA. Freedom High School of South Riding also participated. Eric Guzman was as the Most Valuable Wrestler for Park View. For Freedom High School, Joseph Sheptock was named Most Valuable Wrestler. Ernest Brown of South Riding received the McGowan Invitational Sportsmanship award.

Cascades

Christmas Eve Luncheon @ Senior Center

Seniors will celebrate the holiday at this special luncheon on Monday, Dec. 24 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Please bring a side dish to share and don't be late; seating is limited and tickets will be sold at the door for $4 ($2 for members who purchase advance tickets). This event is open to people who have enjoyed 55 or more years on the planet.

Multi-Sport Holiday Camp at Claude Moore Park

The folks at DMB Sports Camps have some great activities planned for the upcoming student holidays on Dec. 27 and 28 at Claude Moore Recreation Center. Camps are open to boys and girls ages 6-13 and meet from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day, with aftercare available from 4-6 p.m. Participants will be playing various sports and games, climbing the rock wall, doing arts and crafts, and swimming. All activity costs are included in the camp rate of $55 per day, and optional aftercare is available for $10 per day. Space is limited, so register soon by calling 703-444-8805 (ext. 112) or visiting www.dmbsportscamp.com.

Have a Colonial Holiday

Claude Moore Park is putting out the welcome sign. Visit a colonial house decorated for the holidays, play old-fashioned games, make a toy, and taste a colonial treat on Thursday, December 27 at 1:30 p.m., when the park shows off the season as celebrated in bygone days. The cost of the program is $10.50 per person, and it's perfect for ages 6-9. Call 571-258-3700 for additional information.

School’s Out Movies at Cascades Library

The Cascades Library will feature a movie day during the week off from school. On Thursday, December 27 at 2 p.m. catch Ratatouille on the library's big screen. The movie is rated G, and admission is free—Bring your own Popcorn and drinks.

After Hours Teen Center Rocks

The Cascades Library continues to host its award-winning After Hours Teen Center on Friday nights from 7-10 p.m. throughout the month of December. On Dec. 21 high school students can enjoy a Coffee House, and on Dec. 28 the middle school students can attend a New Years Eve Party. Be sure to have your parents stop by the library to sign a permission slip if you haven’t been to the Teen Center before. And don’t be late—nobody will be admitted after 7:30 p.m. Visit the library’s website at www.lcpl.lib.va.us/teens for info on these and other programs.

Countryside

Give the Gift of Life

INOVA Blood Donor Services needs your support and will offer a special perk to all Dulles Town Center location donors in December: coupons for a free Robek’s Smoothie, a free gift of appreciation if you visit Friday, Dec. 21, and complimentary lunch next Tuesday, Dec. 25. Call for information, 1-866-256-6372.

Celebrate the New Year in Leesburg

Bluemont Concert Series sponsors First Night Leesburg, Mon. Dec. 31 with a festive mix of music, magicians, and entertainment for all! Welcome the New Year at midnight with the Grand Illumination on the courthouse lawn. Admission is $8 adult, $6 seniors 65+, and $3 children 3-12. Need more information? Call 540-338-4640 or view the flyer online at http://www.bluemont.org/Events/events_FirstNightLeesburg2007.html.

Lansdowne

Inova Loudoun Hosts Let's Talk Babies Seminar for Expecting Parents

Inova Loudoun Hopsital’s next “Let’s Talk Babies” seminar, a free educational session for the expectant family is scheduled for Jan. 12 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. This is a chance to hear professionals in the area of Labor and Delivery and childcare speak on related topics. There is an opportunity to ask questions and tour The Birthing Inn. Door prizes and giveaways are included. Don't miss out on this informative experience. Registration is required either by calling (703) 779-2694 or through www.thebirthingin.org

Lansdowne Lightning swim organization is currently accepting registrations for its winter swim clinic scheduled to run on Sundays, beginning Feb. 10 through May 18 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sessions will be held at the Claude Moore Recreation Center in Sterling. Lansdowne Lightning offers programs (ages 4-18) directed at all levels of swimming from beginners to those who are qualified to compete at national meets.

Registrants will be placed into one of two groups, based on age, after registration is complete - one group will practice from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and the other from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The final practice schedule will be finalized by mid-January 2008.

Please note the clinic is limited to 80 swimmers. Registrations are being accepted on the website on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information or to register visit http://www.lansdownelightning.com/Registration/registration.html

Belmont Ridge School Toys for Tots Drive

Belmont Ridge Middle Schools LEO Club is sponsoring a Toys for Tots drive thru December 17th. Students are asked to participate by bringing in a new, unwrapped toy to any house office or the front office. Everyone is invited to help make these children’s Christmas a little brighter.

CORRECTION: Please disregard the posting for a Seldens Landing Holiday Concert that appeared in Dec. 5 issue. This information was incorrect. There is no holiday concert planned. We apologize for the error.

South Riding

Three Local Students Write Children’s Book

Sean Pickering, Scott Morrill and Dylan Peacock, three students at Arcola Elementary School, wrote and illustrated a children’s book, “The Adventures of Danny and Spike Underground.” The book has been published.

The idea for the book was formulated while Sean was in the fourth grade at Pinebrook Elementary. The book is the story of a regular boy, Danny, and his dog Spike, and their many adventures as they journey underground to defeat the Dark Wizard.

Scott helped Sean write the book, Dylan provided the illustrations and with parents’ help the 79-page children’s book was printed by iUniverse Publishing. A copy of the book was recently presented to the Arcola Library and a visit to Pinebrook Elementary is planned. The three students are already collaborating on the next adventures of Danny and Spike.

Local Schools Give Back

The Freedom High School Cluster (Freedom High School, Mercer Middle School, Little River Elementary, Hutchinson Farm Elementary, Arcola Elementary, Aldie Elementary, and Middleburg Elementary) sponsored a coat/ hat/glove drive, collecting over 60 gently used items. Additionally, the Student Council Association sponsored a powder puff game, collecting over $700 for the Holiday Coalition in Loudoun County and attracting 350 spectators.

12-12-2007 - Neighborhood News from Loudouni.com

2007-12-13T16:58:00.000-08:00

Ashburn News:

Holiday Shopping for a Cause

This year you can buy last minute Holiday presents while helping a local family. Taylor Love, a two-year-old Ashburn resident, has been fighting neuroblastoma for the past year. Neuroblastoma is a rare cancer of the sympathetic nervous system. Approximately 650 children are diagnosed with this cancer each year in the US. Because such a small number of children are diagnosed with this terrible disease there is a lack of funding to find new treatment options. The families of children with neuroblastoma, the Band of Parents, have taken it upon themselves to raise awareness and the $3 million that is needed to fund a new treatment called humanized 3F8 antibody treatment. According to the Band Of Parents website, “most drugs used on children today were developed for adults twenty to thirty years ago.” For a set of beautiful notecards made from a local artist go to http://www.simply-create.com/neuroblastoma/LONELIEST%20ROAD%20NOTECARDS.html.

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Sterling News

Let’s Have Some Tea

It’s a Holiday Tea Party and you are invited. Festivities commence at the Sterling Library at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18. The program teaches children about the different kinds of tea: Green, Earl Grey, Sugar Plum, and Peppermint. Children can try some (in the form of apple juice) and will be able to take some recipes home. Recommended for ages 4-6. Advance registration required, limited to 24. Sign up online at www.lcpl.lib.va.us or phone 703-430-9500.

Girl Scouts Pack Boxes for Marine Corps

Girl Scout Troop 4186 (and one Brownie) has adopted the 3rd Battalion 2nd Platoon Marine Corps, currently deployed in Iraq. The Girl Scouts collected and boxed 52 boxes of items to send overseas. Troop 4186 is still taking collections. Items may be delivered to the Sterling Community Center.

Cascades News:

Hansel and Gretel’s Gingerbread House Workshop

Follow the trail of breadcrumbs over to the Cascades Library on Tuesday, Dec. 18 or Thursday, Dec. 20 at 4 p.m. and build your own gingerbread house using graham crackers, candy canes, and gumdrops. This workshop is for ages 7 & up and requires advance registration. Just call the library at 703 444-3228, ext. 309 to reserve your place in edible architecture history.

Winter Sing-Along @ the Library

Celebrate the winter season with a sing-a-long at the Cascades Library on Tuesday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. This activity is free, and it's recommended for singers of all ages! Come sing your favorite winter holiday songs!

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Countryside News:

River Bend MS Robotics Team

The team of 8th Grade River Bend Middle School students won first place at the First Lego League regional competition in November. Congratulations to Daniel Jang, Kevin Lin, Woody Chuang, Eoghan Foley, Jonathan Russ, Alex Portillo, and Harrison Williams, and Coach Mrs. Marion Clark. The team competes next at the state level competition held at James Madison University in December. Good luck team!

Winding Road Christmas Concert

Galilee Methodist Church offers the community an evening of contemporary Christmas music on Sunday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m.

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Lansdowne News:

Enjoy Carriage Rides with Santa at Lansdowne Town Center

Take advantage of some nearby fun for the whole family. Area residents are invited to Lansdowne Town Center on Wednesdays, Dec. 12 and 19 to enjoy carriage rides with Santa together with a Town Center open house. Welcome Santa at 6:00 p.m. as he arrives in a horse-drawn carriage to give FREE rides around the town square. Children are encouraged to bring their wish list and a camera too! Lansdowne Town Center stores will feature special savings and light refreshments for attending patrons.

Loudoun Hospital Hosts Holiday Party for 2007 Babies and Moms

The Birthing Inn at Loudoun will host its annual Mom’s Support Group Holiday party on Wednesday, Dec. 19 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. The event will be held in the hospital conference rooms. All Moms and babies from the entire year are welcome! Food will be provided.

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South Riding News:

2008 Chairs Appointed

The Board of Directors at their December meeting ratified the Chairpersons of the volunteer committees for 2008. Committees forwarded their nominations for leaders and without exception they were all formally appointed to serve beginning January 1, 2008. The following leaders were selected for the coming year:

Krista Kehrer- Block Captain Ram Kuppuswami-Neighborhood Watch

Kevin Ubelhart- Budget & FinanceRick Lewis- Rec & Grounds

Joe Strobel- CovenantsMike Becvar- Web & Technology

Val Cavalheri-Elections

Special thanks to outgoing multi-term Chairs Ewa Flom, Carolyn White, Ken Smith and Nicole Pilkus for their outstanding service to the Association.

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Week of 12-12-2007: Loudoun County News from Loudouni.com

2007-12-13T16:47:00.000-08:00

Read all news, editorial, sports, calendar and special events at Loudouni.com!

Ashburn Teen at the Shakespeare Theatre

Ashburn teen, Michael Bunting is currently performing with Washington’s Shakespeare Theatre Company in Christopher Marlowe’s Edward II. Michael plays Young Edward, the king’s son, torn between warring parents and later crowned the new King of England. Michael began his career at age 8, singing and acting in local productions.

In the past six years, Michael has had a lot of practice. In addition to several community theatre and church productions, Michael has worked with the Broadway Juniors and performed in concerts and readings, off-Broadway and in North Hollywood. Michael was featured performer in the 2003 Herndon Festival. Michael explained that unlike his past experiences, the Shakespeare Theatre opportunity allowed him to really work on his character. In community theatre, performances are for four nights and then you move on. Edward II is playing for more than two months.

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Stone Bridge’s Champion Season

The Stone Bridge High School Bulldogs won the State Group AAA Division 5 championship football game last weekend in Charlottesville. The Bulldogs defeated the Potomac High School Panthers by a score of 38-0 in Scott Stadium at the University of Virginia. The Bulldogs finished the season with a 14-1 record, and the record for most wins in a season for the Ashburn high school.

The state football title was the first for Stone Bridge High School as well as Head Football coach, Mickey Thompson, who coached the Park View High School Patriots to states in 1999 and the Bulldogs in 2005. Thompson played college football for the University of Virginia, site of this year’s state title games. Coach Thompson’s victory was also a family affair. Thompson’s twin sons, SBHS juniors, Patrick, quarterback and Zach, defensive lineman, share in the team’s state championship title.

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New Leadership for Dems

The Loudoun County Democratic Committee (LCDC) elected new officers, Dec. 10. After a very successful election season, Thom Beres, stepped down having served 21/2 years as chairman. The members of the LCDC gave Beres a standing ovation for his work for the party, largely crediting him for increased committee membership and an improved relationship with the state party. Beres future plans include work on the Mark Warner for Senate campaign and continued work as a precinct captain.

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Home Renovations by Burglary

Martin L. Mendoza, 41, of Herndon was charged Dec.10 with possession of stolen property and is accused of renovating his home with at least $10,000 in stolen appliances and materials.

The investigation began after a truck, subsequently linked to Mendoza, was seen last month leaving a home under construction with an air conditioning unit. The truck was traced to Mendoza’s home in the 21630 block of Ashburn Road in Ashburn.

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James Bland Music Scholarship

The Lions Club of Sterling in cooperation with Melodee Music announced the annual James A. Bland Music Scholarship Competition at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008. Two categories of competition will be judged, instrumental and vocal, with ten contestants in each category. First and second place winners in each category will receive $75. and $50 Savings Bonds, respectively. Admission to the music competition is free, although seating is limited. Melodee Music, 46077 Lake Center Plaza in Potomac Falls will again host the local competition.

Lions Clubs sponsor music competitions in communities across Virginia each year, and local winners advance to District competitions in May followed by state competition in May, 2008.

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Construction Workers Evacuated

Eleven construction workers were evaluated for possible exposure to carbon monoxide Monday, Dec. 10 after Loudoun County Fire-Rescue Services personnel responded to two 911 calls received moments apart.

Shortly before 11:30 a.m., a 911 call came into Loudoun emergency for an illness in the 22900 block of Wilder Court, off Old Ox Road in the Le Bourget Business Park. Moments later a second 911 call from that location reported a carbon monoxide detector had activated.

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Early Snowfall Mobilizes Police, VDOT, & Rescue

2007-12-13T16:45:00.000-08:00

While the season’s first snowfall deposited only a few inches of snow in the area and school delays were limited to a few hours in both Fairfax and Loudoun County, the Loudoun County Sheriff’s office responded to more than 210 accidents in the snow and ice Dec. 5 and 6. On Wednesday alone the Sheriff’s office reported 170 vehicle crashes in the County, most weather related. No significant injuries were reported, as most accidents involved “fender benders,” and vehicles that slid off the roadway.

Despite the light snowfall, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) advised it is “well stocked for winter weather” with a Northern Virginia “snow budget” of $27 million. VDOT is responsible for an estimated 16,000 miles of roads in Loudoun, Fairfax, and Prince William Counties. Virginia cities and town are responsible for roads in their respective jurisdictions.

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12-5-2007: South Riding News, Loudoun County VA

2007-12-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

South Riding News

Santa Tour & Grand Illumination
Santa will be out on a scouting mission through South Riding starting around 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. He does this every year to familiarize himself with the area so he makes sure to stop at the homes of all the good children. As always our friends at the Arcola #9 Volunteer Fire & Rescue Station will aid him. Check out the community website to see when he will be near your home, or listen for wail of sirens and holiday music that precedes the Clauses.

Volunteers in Action
The Website and Technology Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday, Dec. 11 at Town Hall beginning at 7:30 p.m. The Committee is seeking additional members. The Recreation & Grounds Committee is scheduled to meet Thursday, Dec. 13 at Town Hall beginning at 7:00 p.m.

House Decorating Contest Deadline Looms
Every year the Association conducts a holiday decorating contest. The deadline to nominate your home or a home that you think should be considered is Thursday, December 13th. Judging begins on Dec. 14.

Send Your Community Announcement
If you’d like to see your South Riding community event or announcement get press coverage here, send news of the event to southriding@loudouni.com or the.sciencechick@verizon.net.

12-5-2007: Lansdowne News, Loudoun County VA

2007-12-08T06:08:00.000-08:00

Lansdowne News

Seldens Landing 2nd Annual Holiday Concert
Seldens Landing Elementary School holds its 2nd Annual Holiday Concert on Thursday, Dec. 13 from 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Tolbert Elementary School Auditorium. Students will perform a medley of holiday songs. Parents along with family and friends are invited to attend. Parents and students are asked to arrive by 6:20 p.m. and to dress in festive holiday attire.

HOA Teen Coalition Angels
The Lansdowne HOA Teen Coalition is sponsoring the Giving Tree again this Holiday Season. Residents are encouraged to stop by to select a paper Angel Tag from the tree located in the lobby of the Potomac Club. Residents must return unwrapped gifts, with the Angel Tag attached, to the Potomac Club by Tuesday, Dec. 11.

Lansdowne Community Coat Drive
The Lansdowne HOA Teen Coalition is also sponsoring a Coat Drive. The Potomac Club will be accepting donations of new or slightly used children’s or adult’s coats until Dec. 18.
Contact Kari Walker at kari_walker@smartneighborhood.net with Lansdowne area news or event notices.

12-5-2007: Countryside News, Loudoun County VA

2007-12-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

Countryside News

Holiday Countdown Calendar
Winter break is approaching and students and teachers alike are beginning to count the days ‘til vacation! In this spirit, Loudoun County Public Schools hosts a daily calendar starting Dec. 1 at www.loudoun.k12.va.us/ featuring artwork from elementary through high school students. Art from seven River Bend MS students is featured on this year’s calendar. Congratulations to Samuel Beazell, Monica Gosa, Melissa Guidry, Jackie Koon, Hajar Noucair, Katie Palmer, and Faisal Turkistani.

Winterfest at Algonkian Elementary
Join Santa and your friends at the annual Winterfest evening of fun beginning 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7. Enjoy the chorus’ seasonal songs, have fun making crafts and playing games, and bid on the popular class baskets.

Family Day at Udvar-Hazy Center
The center spotlights the Wright Brothers and their aviation accomplishments on Sat., Dec. 8 from 10a.m.-3p.m. A full-size reproduction of the Wright Model B Flyer is on-site for a unique hands-on learning experience for children and adults. Visit the National Air and Space Museum’s website for event information and check out the webcast archives while you’re there: www.nasm.si.edu/webcasts/archive.cfm.

Potomac Falls Wrestling Results
The Potomac Falls High School Panther’s Wrestling Team began the season at the Christiansburg Duals Competition. Potomac Falls went 2-3, loosing only to state champions from prior years. Ryan Snead who went 5-0 and Aaron Rowane who went 4-1 led the Panthers. Both wrestlers scored against host Christiansburg with Snead winning by forfeit and Rowane by decision. The Panthers travel to Ft. Defiance for another tournament December 7-8.

Potomac Falls wins Cross Country Tournament

The Potomac Falls Cross Country teams won both the girls and the boys championships at the Dulles District tournaments held last month at Ida Lee Park in Leesburg. The Panther’s boys cross-country team won its seventh consecutive district tournament. Four Panthers finished in the top 10 runners. The girls’ team won the district title for the third time in eleven years, as four Panthers finished in the top 10. Potomac Falls sophomore Christina Lee won the individual girls championship and Potomac Falls junior John Hardin won the individual boys championship with times of 19:09 and 16:35 respectively.

12-5-2007: Cascades News, Loudoun County VA

2007-12-08T06:02:00.000-08:00

Cascades News

Looking for a Few Good Toys
The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue System and the Loudoun Career Firefighters have joined forces with the Marines to collect and distribute toys to less fortunate children in our area under the Toys for Tots program. Bring new, unwrapped toys or monetary donations to Sterling Fire Station 18 at 46700 Middlefield Drive in Cascades by Dec. 21. Toys that resemble weapons or might be used as weapons will not be accepted. For additional information contact Lt. Nicole Hankin at 703 737-8011 or visit the Toys for Tots website at http://www.toysfortots.org/.

Loudoun Symphonic Winds Holiday Concert
Falcons Landing Continuing Care Retirement Community in Potomac Falls is hosting a free holiday concert featuring the Loudoun Symphonic Winds on Sunday, December 9 at 2 p.m. in the Falcons Landing Auditorium. The Loudoun Symphonic Winds has become one of the area's most exciting musical ensembles since its formation in 1993. Principal Conductor Gil Corella and the members of LSW perform a rich spectrum of music from classic marches to Broadway songs to holiday favorites. For more information, contact Donna Cassani at 703-404-5120. This event is open to the community, and no tickets are required.

Multi-Sport Holiday Camp at Claude Moore Park
The folks at DMB Sports Camps have some great activities planned for the upcoming student holidays on December 27 and 28 at Claude Moore Recreation Center. Camps are open to boys and girls ages 6-13 and meet from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day, with aftercare available from 4-6 p.m. Participants will be playing various sports and games, climbing the rock wall, creating arts and crafts, and swimming. All activity costs are included in the camp rate of $55 per day, and optional aftercare is available for $10 per day. Space is limited and registration is required. Call 703-444-8805 ext. 112 or visit http://www.dmbsportscamp.com/.

Spa Crafts
Saturday, Dec. 8 at 1 p.m., teens ages 12-18 will meet at the Cascades Library to make the gifts that keep on giving… stress reduction. The Spa Crafts Workshop is limited to 20, so registration is required by visiting the website at www.lcpl.va.us and clicking on the Calendar of Events. Come make some great gifts for your friends, and keep a little something for yourself.

Holiday in the Park

Enjoy the serenity of the winter season at Claude Moore Park on Saturday, December 8 from 3:30 – 6 p.m. Listen to beautiful music, take a candlelight tour of Lanesville House, and appreciate the old-fashioned holiday décor. What better way to appreciate the beauty of the park than from a hayride through quiet, winter meadows? Frogshackle Nature Center will also be open, where you may toast marshmallows, enjoy hot cider, and make holiday crafts. Although this event is free, donations of new mittens, scarves, and hats are requested for the Winter Warmth Tree. All donations will be given to the Loudoun County Holiday Coalition. No registration is required.

12-5-2007: Sterling News, Loudoun County VA

2007-12-08T05:59:00.000-08:00

Sterling News

Dominion wins 1st Round of Scholastic Challenge

Defending champion Dominion High School was the winner in the first round of Loudoun County Public Schools Scholastic Challenge held last week at Heritage High School in Leesburg. Dominion, the winner for the past two years, took the first-half lead with a total of 320 points followed by Park View High School and Stone Bridge High School each with 290 points followed by Heritage with 230 points.

Points are earned by responding correctly to questions in a “Toss-Up” category, as the teams must buzz in with the correct answer before another school, and a “Direct” category, as teams are asked a random series of questions directed to one team, according to the announcement and explanation from Loudoun County Public Schools. The Scholastic Challenge champion is crowned each spring using an aggregate score of each school’s fall and spring scores. Also participating in this year’s event are Loudoun County, Potomac Falls, Broad Run, and Briar Woods high schools. The spring Scholastic Challenge finals will be held April 17, 2008 at Heritage High School.

Boulevard Cleanup Results
The Sterling Foundation expressed thanks to everyone who participated in the pickup of litter on Sterling Boulevard the morning of November 10. The quarterly cleanup collected 28 bags of trash along 3.3 miles of highway. The following persons contributed to the cleanup: Victoria Avery, Billy Bradley, Scott Bradley, Kristen Carlson, Earl Cox, Rich Lichvar, Bryan Loy, Lyn Loy, Vik Railan, Jake Wilton, Laura Wilton, and Michael Wilton. For information about volunteer opportunities in the Sterling community, call Kevin Chroninger at 703-406-7749 or visit http://www.sterlingfoundation.org/.

Stories to Warm Your Heart
The Sterling Library will present a family event at 4pm on Monday, Dec. 10. Bring the whole family for stories, games and crafts as we celebrate the season. Bring a book your family loves and share it with another family. (Make it a library book so they can check it out). Enjoy refreshments as we exchange holiday cheer.

Wrapping Paper for Soldiers
Sandra Lehrer of the Sterling Rotary Club shipped 120 rolls of wrapping paper to American troops stationed in Afghanistan. The club sends whatever the troops request, including coffee, creamer, hand sanitizers, hard candy and, at this time of the year, wrapping paper and tape to wrap gifts to send home. Sterling Rotarians donated the rolls of wrapping paper.

Week of 12-5-2007: Ashburn News, Loudoun County VA

2007-12-08T05:56:00.000-08:00

Ashburn News

Santa Sightings
Santa will be making the rounds throughout Ashburn over the next couple of weeks. Here is a list of the places where you might be able to see jolly old Saint Nick.
2nd Annual Santa Parade: Saturday, Dec. 8 starting at 7:00 p.m. For parade route go to http://www.ashburnfirerescue.org/.

Lunch with Santa at Café Panache: Saturday, Dec. 8 from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call Café Panache for reservations

Brunch with Santa at Sal’s NY Pizza: Sunday, Dec. 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children under 12 will receive Santa’s favorite Surprise Brunch Pizza and fountain drink for free

Holiday Breakfast for Broad Run Band
The Broad Run High School Band Boosters Association is sponsoring a Holiday Breakfast at Applebee’s in Sterling Dec. 15, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Breakfast includes pancakes and sausage, plus unlimited coffee, iced tea or soft drinks, for $5.00 per person. Applebee’s will donate all proceeds from this breakfast to the Band Program.

The Nutcracker
The Loudoun Ballet Company performs the Nutcracker at Stone Bridge High School. Show times are Dec. 8 and 15, 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Sunday; Dec. 9 and 16 at 4:00 p.m. Advance tickets for adults are $16.00 and $12.00 for children and seniors. Tickets at the door are $20. For more information go to http://www.loudounballet.org/.

SBHS Project Graduation
Stone Bridge High School Projection Graduation, which sponsors the annual all night substance free graduation celebration at the Ashburn school is selling $20 tickets for a Grand Cash sweepstakes. A $20 ticket brings three chances to win, with first prize of $3,000, second prize of $1,500 and third prize of $500. Drawing will be held Friday, Dec. 14 at the school and winners need not be present to win. Ticket forms are available at Stone Bridge High School, 43100 Hay Road in Ashburn, and on line at www.louduon.k12.va.us/sbhs/site, click Proj. Graduation, or call 703 726-0799. Mail tickets or bring to the school, deadline for entry is Dec. 13. A receipt/ticket will be returned or mailed for all entries.

Week of 12-5-2007: Loudoun County News from Loudouni.com

2007-12-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Sterling Park Neighborhoods Receive Proactive Zoning

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors voted Dec. 4 to institute a pilot program whereby two streets in Sterling Park will receive enhanced zoning enforcement and education. The pilot program has been authorized for six months and will impact residents of Williamsburg Rd. and North Argonne Ave. in Sterling Park. Both neighborhoods have been the source of numerous prior zoning complaints.

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Tally Ho Movie Theatre To Close Jan. 1

The Tally Ho Movie Theatre, a longtime fixture of downtown Leesburg, will close its doors on Jan. 1, 2008. Judy Wilson, current owner of the Tally Ho, announced that she has exercised an option to end her lease of the property. Wilson has operated the Tally Ho for the past five years, focusing mainly on first run movies of a family-friendly nature.

The 19 West Market Street, Tally Ho Theatre property is owned by Divine Commercial. Noting increased competition and the need for improvements to the property, Wilson determined that this was the right time to move on. No plans have been announced regarding the future of the property. Considered a part of historic Leesburg, the Tally Ho opened as a single screen theatre in 1931, charging 31 cents admission. The first film shown at the Tally Ho was “Sporting Blood,” starring Clark Gable. The Tally Ho has closed in the past. The property remained empty from 2000-2002, until it was reopened by Wilson and Pat Hoke. More...

Holiday Coalition Donations in Progress

The Loudoun County Community Holiday Coalition program has provided “holiday cheer” for more than 10,480 families during the past eleven years. More than 1,500 families have registered for help this year, the highest number of families in the history of the program, according to the coalition announcement. Each year, the Coalition needs help from the community and this year is no exception.

The Coalition’s most needed items include: new clothing for children of all ages, especially children age 5-12 and teens; new clothing for Seniors; food gift certificates in $10 denominations; new warm winter hats and mittens/gloves for all ages; new gifts for pre-teens and teens; gift certificates from area malls and department stores; and cash donations to purchase inventory to help keep the Coalition Store stocked for seven days of distribution. More...

LINK Holiday Gift

LINK will be distributing Christmas food baskets Saturday, Dec. 15 and volunteers are needed in preparation for that day. LINK’s Holiday Food Basket program distributes food baskets at Thanksgiving and Christmas with client’s pre registered to receive food at a scheduled time and the amount of food given based on family size.

Volunteers are needed in advance to help sort and pack food. To volunteer email volunteercoordinator@linkinc.us to determine times and locations. Volunteers are needed Monday, Dec. 10 and Tuesday Dec. 11 – two sessions, 9 a.m. until noon and 7:00 until 9 p.m. and Friday Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. until sorting is completed. Volunteers may also be needed on distribution day, Saturday, Dec. 15 with various time slots from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Sorting and distribution locations are Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church in Sterling and Trinity Presbyterian Church in Herndon. Visit Link’s website www.linkinc.us to learn more about the organization.

Championship Game for Stone Bridge

Stone Bridge High School Bulldogs will play in the State Group AAA championship football game this weekend in Charlottesville. The Bulldogs defeated Phoebus High School 38-24 Dec. 1 to advance to the Group AAA Division 5 Championship. More...

Initial Post

2007-09-02T13:29:00.001-07:00

First post for general news and information about the Loudoun Independent Newspaper.