People

The Making of an Author

David Vermont turns from legal briefs to a novel.

David Vermont, a workers compensation lawyer in Alexandria, never liked writing when he was younger. As a lawyer, writing 10 to 30 page briefs and proposals can be tedious. Now Vermont is also an author, with “The Last Confession of the Vampire Judas Iscariot” released in March and another book in the works.

Mourning Loss of Betty Dunham

The heart of Dunham’s Motor Service.

It was 1948. Much of River Road was not paved, farming was a way of life in Potomac, people hitched their horses to a post at the crossroads of River and Falls – and Dunham’s Motor Service, Mitch Mitchell’s gas station, the Perry Store, and a bar pretty much made up the businesses of “downtown” Potomac.

Local Blog Explores Spiritual Understanding

Salma Hasan Ali reflects on Ramadan.

Four years ago, Salma Hasan Ali began writing a blog called “30 Days, 30 Deeds” to share the essence of the month-long Muslim holiday Ramadan with her children (www.30days30deeds.com). Her writings reveal a heartfelt exploration of Ramadan, but also give insight into the life of a mother seeking to inspire her children to understand the true meaning of performing good deeds, expressing gratitude, saying prayers and practicing charity.

The Power of Friendship

Local group pairs teen mentors with special needs children.

One of the highlights of 8-year-old Sophie Gottfried’s week is spending time with her 17-year-old friend Allie Wiener. Despite their age difference, the two girls have an extraordinary bond.

Financial Education for College Students

Local experts offer budget tips to keep students out of debt.

As the summer wanes, many recent high school graduates are preparing to head to college. For those who are living away from home for the first time, this means newfound independence. But that freedom brings responsibility — especially when it comes to money.

Inova Fairfax Hospital: #1 in D.C. Metro Area

For the third year in a row, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus has been ranked as the #1 Hospital in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area by U.S. News & World Report. Inova Fairfax also jumped in rankings to #2 in the state, and earned national recognition as #33 in the country in Gynecology and #42 in Neonatology. The annual U.S. News Best Hospitals rankings, now in their 25th year, recognize hospitals that excel in treating the most challenging patients. “Three years in a row as #1 is an outstanding accomplishment and we are proud of our hospital’s dedicated physicians and staff who provide the best of care to our patients every day. I’d like to congratulate our staff, particularly within Inova Women’s and Children’s for their impressive and well-deserved national rankings,” said Patrick Christiansen, PhD, chief executive officer, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus.

Arielle Mewou Receives Regirer Nurse Scholarship

Mewou is a certified nursing assistant at Vinson Hall Retirement Community.

Vienna Arts Society Presents Heroes Healing Wall

Troops on the mend from Fort Belvoir compose multi-media puzzle pieces.

The newest exhibition of the Vienna Arts Society is a trifecta of purpose

Cooling off at Vienna Woods

Local Swim and Tennis Club offers choices to residents of all ages.

Established in 1959, this summer spot is home away from home for 750 members and an array of staff members.

The DaVinci Challenge Hosts Build A Drone Workshop

The world is slowly becoming a better place but there is so much more that can be done.

Herndon Enjoys Summer in Spotlight

Downtown Herndon remains active despite summer heat.

On July 9 and July 10, reporters from channel NBC4 visited downtown Herndon to share some of the special qualities of the town.

Students Keep Bows Moving

Summer Strings Camp preserves students’ musical skills.

This is the 26th year of the camp, which is and has been attended by students from different Fairfax County elementary schools.

Hawaii Spirit at Lake Anne Plaza

Fifth annual Ukulele Festival held Saturday.

Lake Anne’s fifth annual Ukulele Festival brought out music lovers from all over the D.C.-metro area to the plaza to listen to live music, learn to play a Beatles tune or two and pick up a ukulele for those feeling inspired.

‘Really Fun and a Great Experience’

Local students enjoy summer computer camp.

In the morning, Bijoy Thomas taught seven students, ages 12-14, how to make DS, or hand-held, video games. And in the afternoon, he taught them about BattleBots and Raspberry Pi.

Teens Learn the Law

Youth academy teaches teens law enforcement.

The students got to sit in the front seat of a police car, learn about crime scene investigation, see a real court case and meet some of the police dogs who also report for duty at the station.

The Connection