Tale of Two Independent Bookstores
Shoppers support small business Saturday.
When one shops at a small business, it helps the local economy and the environment. Interest in indie bookstores is thriving as small businesses, according to Statista 2023. After a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of independent bookstores in the United States will reach an all-time high in 2023 at 2,599, reports Statista.
Reston Town Center Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting 2023
Good neighbor volunteers are the sparkle.
Reston Town Center launched the season, celebrating on Friday, Nov. 24, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., with the annual Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting.

Madison Tops Westfield
The Westfield Bulldogs (9-3) traveled to Vienna for a Regional Final game with the Madison Warhawks (11-1) on Nov. 25. The two conference rivals are also two of the most successful programs in the region.

Encore Performers Present ‘Santa’s Special Delivery’
Dazzling songs and dances in a holiday-themed story.
Filled with the joy and wonder of the holiday season, Encore Theatrical Arts Project presents “Santa’s Special Delivery.” This Broadway-style extravaganza features some 30 performers, creative choreography, elaborate sets, colorful costumes and nearly two dozen musical numbers.
Where to Give for Local impact
There are literally thousands of ways to give locally. Here are a few ideas. Please let us know what we have missed and any corrections. Send corrections or updates to mkimm@connectionnewspapers.com with “Give Locally” in the subject line.
Switch to Battery Powered Leaf Blower (or a Rake)
In an effort to reduce the county's carbon footprint, the Park Authority and Department of Public Works and Environmental Services plan to set an example by cutting their use of gas-powered leaf blowers in half over the next year.

Robert ‘Old Folks’ Dawkins
Founder of African American Hall of Fame dies at 83.
“He did so much in furtherance of recognizing others and never took credit for it.” — The Hon. Nolan Dawkins of his brother Robert

FCPD Searching for Stolen French Bulldog
Detectives from FCPD Criminal Investigation Division are seeking the community’s assistance to locate a stolen french bulldog.
Board Resolutions Honor Residents
Resolutions
Fairfax Funds Innovators
Fairfax Funds Innovators

Impact of Fairfax’s High Rental Costs and Low Income
Validity of the point-in-time count
Rents out of control

Luette Goodbody Semmes, 96
Service at Saint Francis Church in Potomac on Dec. 9, 2023 at 2 p.m. with a reception afterwards.
Obituary
How to Survive an Active Shooting
Roundups
Fundraiser for Britepaths, Nov. 28, in Fairfax
News Briefs
Civil War Christmas at Fort Ward
News Briefs
Happy Thanksgiving 2023
There are so many complexities and challenges in the world in which we live that it is important to take some time to reflect on the good things that are going on in our families, communities and the world for which we need to be thankful.
Centreville Motorcycle Crash Kills Lorton Man, 27
A crash between a car and a motorcycle last week took the life of a 27-year-old Lorton man.