Affordable Housing-Talk Not Action in Fairfax, Reston
The shortage of affordable housing in Fairfax County and Reston rarely gets the analytical attention that the Connection’s edition of August 16-22 delivered in Mercia Hobson’s “3rd Wealthiest County in U.S. Fails to Provide Affordable Housing.” The article is based on conversations with several knowledgeable staff members of one excellent Reston’s charitable organization, Cornerstones, people serving the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless.

Westfield v. Mount Vernon
Westfield scores on its first possession and finishes 42-0.
The Westfield Bulldogs faced the Mount Vernon Majors on Thursday Aug. 31, 2023 in Chantilly for a non conference matchup.
News Briefs
briefs
Neighborhood Restaurant with Upscale, Modern Feel
After a year in Fairfax City, Draper’s holds ribbon cutting.
Draper’s Steak & Seafood, at 3936 Blenheim Blvd. in Fairfax, is in a location steeped in history.

Barricade Ends Peacefully
A man was safely taken into custody following a 6-hour barricade that ended around 10 p.m Aug. 29, in a neighborhood near Monument Drive and Government Center Parkway.
Springfield Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash
A 22-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on the afternoon of Aug. 31, 2023 in Fairfax Station.
Roundups
Roundups

Professionals Learn More About Native Plants
Native plants may be climate change survivors
Imagine a world without forests. Lands unable to control soil erosion, filter and clean water, control temperatures, store carbon, provide building materials, produce food and medicines, or soothe the soul with the sound of rustling leaves.

Never Forget
City to mark anniversary of 9-11 attacks.
“We claim this ground in remembrance of the events of September 11, 2001. To honor the 184 people whose lives were lost, their families, and all who sacrifice that we may live in freedom. We will never forget.” — Pentagon 9-11 Memorial inscription.

A Noteworthy Milestone
Alexandria Harmonizers celebrate 75 years.
The Alexandria Harmonizers, Alexandria’s own internationally acclaimed a cappella performing group, will celebrate their 75th diamond anniversary with a special performance Sept. 9 at the Rachel M Schlesinger Concert Hall on the Alexandria campus of Northern Virginia Community College.

3 Dates to Circle for Dining in September
A trio of celebrations awaits this month, ranging from an arts-and-cocktails soiree early on to a celebration of Oktoberfest to a bluegrass brunch to beat the band. Kick off the journey to autumn with some September fun – here are some of the month’s best bets.
Wetlands Ordinance – Existing Bulkheads Generally Grandfathered
There has been a lot of information and misinformation being shared with community members, especially those who live along our waterways, as to what is permitted or not permitted based on the 2020 Virginia Wetlands law.
17 Year Old Arrested For Murder
FCPD Detectives from the Mount Vernon Police District arrested a 17-year-old suspect in a fatal shooting in a Woodlawn parking lot on Friday, Sept. 1.
New Police Commander Urges Community Dialogue
“This is your police department.”
“It takes a lot to work in the Mount Vernon district,” Fairfax County police Captain Marc Mitchell told his audience at an Aug. 30 “Meet the Commander” gathering at the Sherwood Regional Library.

The Dr. Larry Bussey Family & Community Library: FCSB approves renaming Family Resource Center library
Library renaming
Cash from County’s Carryover Funds
$100K may be coming for each district’s unfunded capital improvement projects.
Who can apply for this and other funding may surprise you.

Love and Protection Not Enough for Furry Family Members
Pet parents must be informed.
I thought I killed my little puppy, Oshi.
Public Comment on Greenway Toll Increase Request Now Open
Greenway operator seeks 40% increase during peak morning and afternoon hours from $5.80 to $8.10.