Send announcements, which are open to the public at no or minimal cost, to The Loudoun Connection, 7913 Westpark Drive, McLean, VA 22102 or e-mail to loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Friday, two weeks before the event. Photos/artwork encouraged. For more information, call Jennifer Lesinski at 703-917-6454. For additional listings, visit www.connectionnewspapers.com.
The Giving Circle of HOPE, which helps needy people in Northern Virginia by awarding grants and conducting service programs, has opened its 2008 grant cycle. Grants of $1,000-$5,000 are awarded to nonprofit organizations in December through a competitive process. Grant guidelines and applications are due by Sept. 1 and may be accessed at www.givingcircleofHOPE.org or requested by e-mail at givingcircle@hotmail.com.