Honoring County’s Devotion to Animals
Shelter’s renovation and expansion are celebrated.
Residents, politicians and even four-footed alumni flocked to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter on Saturday, May 17, to celebrate completion of its renovation and expansion. It was a long time in coming, so it made the event even sweeter.
Five New Parks in Sully Woodlands
Residents are asked to submit their ideas for them
The Fairfax County Park Authority wants to hear residents’ thoughts about its new comprehensive plan for parkland in Sully Woodlands. So it held a recent public meeting in Centreville to let people see what’s proposed and comment on it.
Westfield High’s Musical: 14 Cappie Nominations
Centreville, Chantilly are also acknowledged.
In the realm of high-school theater, the annual Cappie awards are akin to professional theater’s Tony awards. And during last week’s unveiling of the 2014 Cappie nominations, Westfield High’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors” received a whopping 14 nods, including Best Musical.
Saved By The Belt
Proper Seatbelt Use Saves Dad, Son
A local father and son received the police Saved by the Belt award at the May 14 meeting of the Sully District Station’s Citizens Advisory Committee. They are Michael Spillane and his now 3-year-old, Evan.
Pausing to Remember America’s Fallen
Memorial Day ceremony at Oakton’s Flint Hill Cemetery.
Residents and dignitaries alike paid their respects to America’s fallen heroes during American Legion Post 180’s annual Memorial Day ceremony.
‘Look Around and See the Smiles’
Special-ed students enjoy Day Prom at the Waterford.
Last Thursday, May 8, some 400 students got all dressed up and went to their prom at the Waterford in Fair Oaks.
A ‘Show Everyone Will Enjoy’
Chantilly High presents Jazz & Pizzazz, May 28-31.
More than 50 students will entertain and, said Choral Director Evan Ayars, “It’s a unique experience to have that many musicians and singers onstage together. It’s a great example of musical collaboration.”
‘Look Around and See the Smiles’
Special-ed students enjoy Day Prom at the Waterford.
Some 400 students got all dressed up and went to their prom at the Waterford in Fair Oaks on May 8. Once there, they had professional photos taken, ate pizza, sang karaoke, laughed and hung out with their friends. And when the music played their favorite songs, they filled the dance floor and showed off their coolest moves.
Murder Is Charged in Stabbing
A 20-year-old Centreville man died Sunday, May 18, after being stabbed the previous night during a fight. Fairfax County police identified him as Domingo Eduardo Santiago Cuchil of no fixed address in Centreville.
Reminiscences and Remembrances
Chantilly High celebrates its 40th birthday.
Chantilly High celebrated its 40th birthday, Friday evening, May 2, and alumni from several different graduating classes returned to participate in the festivities. They took SGA-guided school tours, viewed exhibits of current programs and learned Chantilly trivia. They also saw displays of Charger sports accomplishments while enjoying both chocolate and vanilla birthday cakes. The Robotics Team exhibited its award-winning technology and the SGA presented a Powerpoint of the school’s history.
For ‘Dedication and Devotion to Duty’
PFC Rick Call is honored as Sully CAC’s Officer of the Month.
Honored for his police work that helped solve cases in Fairfax County and Washington, D.C., PFC Rick Call is the Sully District Station’s Citizens Advisory Committee’s (CAC) Officer of the Month for April. He was presented his award by Lt. Bob Blakely, assistant station commander. A local high-school teacher contacted him about a female student who thought she’d been drugged and sexually assaulted. Call met with the student who told him she and a friend were picked up by a man in Centreville and taken to an indoor swimming pool in the District.
Do Your Best; Raise the Bar
Chantilly High named a Virginia Honor Band.
Being designated a “Virginia Honor Band” is the most prestigious title bestowed upon school bands by the Virginia Band & Orchestra Directors Association. And Chantilly High’s band has just received this recognition for the 12th time.
Out-of-This-World Celebration
The third annual Chantilly Day celebration is this Saturday, May 17 and, with two former NASA astronauts coming, it promises to be out of this world. The festival runs from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., rain or shine, in the Kmart and Babies R Us parking lots in the Sully Place Shopping Center, off Route 50 West in Chantilly. And there’ll be fun for the whole family. Free children’s activities will be provided by the Chantilly-Centreville Chamber of and its sponsors and are being coordinated by the Chantilly Youth Association (CYA). The fun includes a rock wall, moonbounces and trackless train, plus several sports-themed activities.
Chantilly Day: Food, Fun, Music and Astronauts
Third annual Chantilly Day celebration is May 17, 2014
Fun for the whole family is planned for the third annual Chantilly Day celebration, Saturday, May 17, at the Sully Place Shopping Center, off Route 50 West in Chantilly. There’ll be two U.S. astronauts, live music and dancing, food and children’s activities. The festival runs from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., rain or shine, in the Kmart and Babies R Us parking lots. The day’s events will include onstage performances by the Chantilly High Jazz Ensemble and Latin Dance Club, School of Rock Centreville, a pet adoption, trackless train, robotics demonstration, business expo and awards ceremony.
‘Entertaining for Whole Family’
Chantilly presents children’s play, ‘Goldilocks on Trial.’
Somebody’s been inside the three bears’ home and eating their porridge. But did she commit a crime? That’s for the jury to decide in Chantilly High’s upcoming children’s play, “Goldilocks on Stage.” The curtain rises Friday, May 16, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 17, at 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, May 18, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door or via www.chantillyhsdrama.com.
Remembering Jeffrey By Helping Others
Angel Kisses 5K/2K is set for Mother’s Day.
Superheroes do some pretty amazing things, such as thwarting villains and saving people. In life, Chantilly’s Jeffrey Virostek only got to pretend to be a superhero; but in death, he’s become a real one. He was only 4 in September 2003 when he succumbed to acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). But a fund his parents started in his name has enabled many nonprofit organizations to help other children in their battles against cancer.
22 Years in Prison for Child’s Death
A Fair Lakes woman has been sentenced to more than 22 years in prison for murdering an 11-month-old boy in Vienna, nearly three years ago. She is Carol Nadine Lutsky, 22, of Summit Manor Court. The tragedy occurred Oct. 5, 2011. Town of Vienna police officers were called to the 1100 block of Lakewood Drive S.W. regarding a baby who was reported to be unresponsive. But before they arrived, the caretaker, Lutsky, then 20, transported the infant to his biological mother who was in Reston at the time. The baby was then rushed to Reston Hospital, from where – because of his critical and deteriorating condition – he was Medevaced to Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. The boy, Nehemiah Williams, died the next day, on Oct. 6.
Woman Convicted of Tax and Wire Fraud
Fair Oaks tax preparer filed false returns with the IRS.
Thuy Tien Le, 40, pleaded guilty last week in federal court to preparing false income tax returns and committing wire fraud.
Special-Needs Children Given Wings to Fly
Therapy and recreational center opens in Chantilly.
When Donna Shank’s son Ryan was diagnosed with autism eight yeas ago, she traveled throughout the Washington Metropolitan area to get treatment for him. “Most children with autism, and other children with special needs, require several different types of therapies, such as speech and occupational therapy and additional tutoring,” she said. “But it’s difficult to find all these services in one location. So my dream was to provide an all-in-one, integrated, therapy center.”
Face-to-Face with Arrests, Prison, Death
Parents, students learn substance-abuse dangers.
It’s one thing for people to warn others about the dangers of substance abuse. But it’s more powerful when they share personal stories of how drugs and alcohol affected their own families. And that’s what happened during the recent forum at Madison High. Called “Protecting Against the Realities of Substance Abuse,” it was put on by Parents Reaching Out To Educate Communities Together (PROTECT), a task force of the Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County (UPC).
‘Feed Me, Seymour,’ Says the Plant
Westfield High presents “Little Shop of Horrors.”
A musical about a man-eating plant is Westfield High’s Cappies show for 2014. The curtain rises on “Little Shop of Horrors” May 2-3 and May 9-10 at 7:30 p.m. and May 4 at 2 p.m.
A Funny, Fast-Paced Screwball Comedy
Chantilly High presents “The Front Page.”
A 1930s newsroom is the setting for Chantilly High’s madcap comedy, “The Front Page.” The school’s Cappies play takes the stage Thursday-Saturday, May 1, 2, 3, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door or $8 via www.chantillyhsdrama.com.
‘It’ll Make People Laugh, Feel Good’
Centreville High presents comedy, “Funny Money.”
An aptly named show that’ll have the audience roaring with laughter, “Funny Money” is Centreville High’s upcoming Cappies play.
Crimes Solvers Seeks Public’s Assistance
Fairfax County Crime Solvers is seeking the public’s help in identifying the people responsible for stealing three vehicles — and taking items from at least 10 others — during the overnight hours of Friday, April 4, to early Saturday, April 5, in Centreville.
Celebrating Erin Peterson
Community remembers her life and honors her legacy.
Each April, the Petersons celebrate Erin's life and legacy with a Gospel program at Mount Olive Baptist Church.
Heading to Harrisonburg
Six CVHS students make Virginia’s All-State Choir.
Six Centreville High students — Kayla Ebright, Jared Knutti, Lily Park, Patrick McGinty, Joshua Ewalt and Hailey Knapp — have made Virginia’s All-State Choir. And they’ll perform in it, April 26, in Harrisonburg.
Church To Host Centreville International Showcase
Centreville International Showcase will be April 26.
Celebrating the community’s cultural diversity, the Centreville Immigration Forum (CIF) presents the Centreville International Showcase. A lighthearted evening of music, dance, food and friendship is slated for Saturday, April 26, from 6-9:30 p.m., at Centreville United Methodist Church.
Deadly Dangers of Drugs
Narcotics officer shares information with parents.
Lt. Jim Cox is a 26-year member of the Fairfax County Police Department. From 1995-2001, he was a detective in the Organized Crime and Narcotics (OCN) Division; and since 2004, he’s been an OCN supervisor. “I know a lot about narcotics,” he said. “But every day, something new comes on the market.”
The Seven Faces of Erin Peterson
Annual Gospel Celebration of Life is this Sunday, April 13.
Nearly seven years have passed since Centreville’s Erin Peterson — an 18-year-old freshman at Virginia Tech — was killed in a massacre there, along with 31 others. But although short, her life counted; and each year, the local community gathers to remember her. This year, the 7th Annual Erin Peterson Gospel Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, April 13, at 4 p.m., at Mount Olive Baptist Church, 6600 Old Centreville Road in Centreville. The theme is “Keeping Hope Alive: The Seven Faces of Erin – Daughter, Sister, Friend, Mentor, Visionary, Peacemaker, Inspiration.”
Bonsai Show Coming Up at Garden Center
Learn about, see and vote for favorite trees.
The Northern Virginia Bonsai Society will hold its Spring Show this weekend at the Merrifield Garden Center. It’s at 12101 Lee Hwy. in Fairfax and the free show runs Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, April 13, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
‘Victims’ Rights Are a Necessity’
Honoring crime victims with walk, words and candlelight vigil.
Siobhan Russell was just 19 when her ex-boyfriend killed her. Ron Kirby, a noted regional transportation planner, was murdered in his Alexandria home in November by an unknown assailant.
Plants, Water, Salt and Birth Order
Students participate in Chantilly High’s science fair.
Chantilly High’s recent science fair brought out the curiosity and creativity in the participating students.
‘In Difficult Economic Times’
Supervisors, School Board are in annual, budget tug-of-war.
It’s a battle each year between the school system’s needs and the county’s ability to address them.
‘Wonder of Wonders, Miracle of Miracles’
Liberty Middle presents the musical, ‘Fiddler on the Roof Jr.’
Featuring a cast and crew of 45, Liberty Middle School presents “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.” Show times are Thursday-Saturday, April 3, 4 and 5, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door and during school lunches.
Walk, Candlelight Vigil Honors Crime Victims
Fairfax County remembers local people who’ve been victims of crimes. And on Sunday, April 6, at Fairfax Corner, they’ll be honored via the second annual 5K Walk and Candlelight Vigil. The free event, in front of the movie theater at 4100 Monument Corner Drive in the Fairfax Corner shopping center, kicks off National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 6-12. Each April, law-enforcement agencies, along with organizations and communities, join together to observe this week. The goal is to promote victims’ rights and honor crime victims and the people who work advocating on their behalf.
Chantilly High’s International Celebration
Featuring food and entertainment, Chantilly High’s International Night was Wednesday, March 19.
‘To Spot Kids in Crisis’
Police, others take suicide prevention training.
Although there have been four recent incidents of teen suicides in Fairfax County, the Police Department has planned to offer Suicide Awareness and Intervention Training for its officers since October 2013.
Compassion Award
The Virginia Federation of Humane Societies has selected the state’s top animal shelters and programs that made a difference in the animal welfare in 2013.
‘Goal Is To Spot Kids in Crisis’
Police, others take suicide prevention training.
Although there have been four recent incidents of teen suicides in Fairfax County, the Police Department has planned to offer Suicide Awareness and Intervention Training for its officers since October 2013.
Having Fun, Raising Money
Life Time holding Zumba-Latin Fusion dance class for MDA.
Peter Callas is living a happy and productive life, both personally and professionally. But it wouldn’t have been possible without his own determination, the love of his family and support from the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
Roundups
St. Baldrick’s Sign-Ups A St. Baldrick’s Day event is slated for Sunday, March 23, at 4 p.m., at Fast Eddie’s in the Newgate Shopping Center, at Routes 28/29 in Centreville. The event raises funds for childhood cancer research. People volunteer to have their heads shaved and raise money in advance for the privilege. Then all those being shaved get it done together while others cheer them on. Sign up at http://www.stbaldricks.org/events/mypage/149/2014. In addition, Valvoline Instant Oil Change in Centreville is giving a 10-percent discount on services and 10 percent back to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation when customers mention St. Baldrick’s.
‘Highly Motivated and a True Leader’
A 26-year veteran of the Fairfax County Police Department, MPO Ray Ordonez is the Sully District Station’s and its Citizens Advisory Committee’s 2013 Officer of the Year. He was honored as such last Wednesday, March 12, at the station, and every one of his roll-call officers turned out for the ceremony.
Two Sully Police Officers Honored
Because snow cancelled February’s meeting of the Sully District Police Station’s Citizens Advisory Committee, two officers of the month were honored last week. Station Commander Ed O’Carroll recognized PFC John Kolcun for February and PFC Joe Compher for March. He and the CAC feted both officers during the CAC’s March 12 meeting at the Sully District Station. O’Carroll said Kolcun was being acknowledged for “his diligence out on the streets. He’s permanently on night duty so, when we’re all home sleeping and safe, he’s out there fighting crime.”
Fighting Childhood Cancer
St. Baldrick’s fund-raiser is March 23.
St. Baldrick’s Day events try to raise as much money as possible toward finding a cure for childhood cancer.
Three Plays for Price of One
Centreville High One-Acts take the stage.
Two dramas and a comedy are on tap for Centreville High’s annual One-Act Play Festival. Presented will be “13 Ways to Screw up a College Interview,” “10,000 Cigarettes” and “The Lottery.”
Chantilly High School Celebrates Diversity
International Night is slated for March 19.
Chantilly High is holding its annual International Night next Wednesday, March 19, in the school theater.
His Name Is ‘Fronkensteen’
The Alliance Theatre presents ‘Young Frankenstein.’
A rollicking, Mel Brooks comedy will burst upon the stage when The Alliance Theatre presents “Young Frankenstein.”
Roundups
Time To Spring Forward Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday, March 9, at 2 a.m. So before going to bed Saturday night, residents are reminded to turn their clocks, watches and other electronic devices forward one hour. CAC Meeting on Drugs The Citizens Advisory Committee of the Sully District Police Station will meet Wednesday, March 12, from 7:30-9 p.m., in the Sully District Governmental Center, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly. In an adults-only presentation, a detective from the Organized Crime and Narcotics division will talk about dangerous drugs in Fairfax County and what’s being done to combat them. R.S.V.P. to FCPDSULCPO@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-814-7018.
Schools Present Choral Concert
Centreville High and Liberty Middle schools will unite in song to present a Spring Choral Concert, next Thursday, March 13, at 7:30 p.m. The free concert will be held in the Centreville High auditorium. Afterward, the audience is invited to join the performers for a reception in the lobby.“It’s some of the most beautiful music they’ve studied all year,” said Centreville Choral Director Lynne Babcock. “It really shows off their musical skill and talents.”Liberty’s 90-person choir, under the direction of Nancy Hayes, will be singing first. The students will perform “The Bells,” “S’Vivon” and “Kyrie.”“I’m so happy that our students can share a concert together,” said Hayes. “This way, the middle-school students are hearing the high-school choirs at their very best. And hopefully, it will inspire them to continue singing in choir when they get to Centreville High.”Centreville will showcase 125 singers in six choirs, each performing separately.
‘Mamma Mia, Here I Go Again’
Chantilly’s Emily Price has come a long way. In 2006, at age 14, she played Dorothy in The Alliance Theatre’s production of “The Wizard of Oz.” Now 22, she’s performing in the Broadway national tour of “Mamma Mia!” The hit musical is at the National Theatre in Washington, D.C., March 4-9. In the story, a young woman named Sophie is getting married in Greece. She wants to learn who her father is, so she invites three former suitors of her mother’s to the wedding. “I play Ali, one of Sophie’s best friends, who’s come to the Greek island as a bridesmaid,” said Price. “Ali’s quirky, funny and excited to be reunited with Sophie. I love it; I get to jump around and have a blast every night with wonderful performers. The audience loves the show — we always get a great reaction.”