Not for the first time, I am confused about the future of Dulles Corridor transportation.  As someone who has been following closely the issue of Metrorail’s planned arrival in Tysons, Reston, and beyond as well as the development of the new Tysons and Reston plan, I see tremendous inconsistencies in the transportation—particularly traffic—analyses and prognostications about our future.

For example, in 2009, Wilbur Smith Associates (WSA) prepared a “comprehensive” traffic and revenue study under a contract with MWAA.  It showed that traffic on the Dulles Toll Road (DTR) declining on the DTR from 110 million transactions in 2008 when the full toll was $1.25 to 93 million transactions in 2047 (last year reported) when the toll reached $11.25.  The decline in usage is natural despite the anticipated growing population as people opt to take either Metrorail or alternative non-toll roads, eliminating 17 million trips/year—or 47,000 transactions per day.

RCA’s Reston 2020 Committee updated the WSA study using the same analytical approach, but with updated MWCOG job and population growth estimates (they’re lower) and the higher toll rates MWAA laid out last year.  As expected, they showed a greater decline in 2047 transactions—83 million per year or 74,000 per day—as tolls reached $15.40.  Of course, more recent toll forecasts (including one by MWAA) suggest Reston 2020 undershot toll growth with the implication that toll road use would decline even more steeply over the next 30-40 years.

On the other hand, Fairfax County submitted a report to the Virginia Department of Transportation (527 report) in 2010 indicating that the DTR would need to be widened one lane eastbound and two lanes westbound  not later than 2030 to handle increasing traffic on the DTR resulting from the redevelopment of Tysons.

Both of these judgments cannot be true.  Either DTR traffic will increase (despite the addition of Metrorail and huge toll rate increases) or it will decrease because of these same factors.

On top of this, no one—not even WMATA–has a well-based reasonably current understanding of the traffic that Dulles Metrorail will actually handle in the near or distant future, if it’s completed, including what fares WMATA will likely charge for its use.   Obviously, the higher the fare, the less it will be used.

Right now, there is a massive argument going on in Tysons planning as to who will pay for the $1.7 billion transportation infrastructure needed there in the next 20 years, according to Fairfax officials.  Most of that is for bus transit to and from the Metrorail stations within and beyond the immediate station areas.  Aside from the issue of who pays, how does anyone know with a reasonable level of comfort that Tysons won’t need substantially more or less money than that to provide a reasonable level of local transportation service?  Has anyone examined how the improvements made there will affect transportation needs farther west on the Dulles Corridor?  Would alternative approaches achieve the same transportation goals more cost-effectively (e.g.—by building parking garages at the Metro stations, expanding pedestrian and bicycle access more than planned, etc.)?  Has any independent authority checked the validity of the process used by the county and its contractor to generate the current cost figures?

To proceed with further transportation infrastructure planning and development, much less the massive community planning in Tysons, Reston, and Loudoun’s Dulles World, is government misfeasance on a multi-billion dollar scale.  An expert, independent outside entity overseen by a panel of non-partisan citizens from the Dulles Corridor needs to conduct an extensive, integrated, transparent analysis of the Dulles Corridor’s future transportation needs, based on multiple population and jobs forecasts, property development plans (or plans in the making), and transportation infrastructure programs.  This needs to be completed before ANY of the parties—US DOT, Virginia, Loudoun, and Fairfax—make half-baked decisions about what, when, and where to build, and how to pay for it all based on incomplete and inaccurate information.

The fact of the matter is we may not need Dulles Metrorail, more lanes of Dulles Toll Road, more bus service, or other expensive additions to our transportation infrastructure to meet the needs of the Corridor.  Alternatively, we may need much more than is currently envisioned.  We just don’t know.  Yet, government officials are making multi-billion dollar decisions anyway on information that they and we know is bad.

The abysmal failure to set aside parochial and often partisan viewpoints and work together in a systematic, constructive, and transparent way to address the transportation needs of the Dulles Corridor is an example of why the public is increasinly angry with elected officials and public employees  in government at all levels.  It is time for all the parties to the Dulles Corridor transportation issue to “man up” and do the right thing for the Corridor, its employers and its residents, rather than reaching secret agreements behind closed on bad information without citizen understanding or input.

Terry Maynard
Reston, Virginia

Walk-in/Mail-in voting begins officially on September 22. Each property in small district 5 will receive a ballot in the mail. Walk-in ballots must be received by RCC no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 13, and mail-in ballots must be received by the counting agent address by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 12.

2011 RCC PREFERENCE POLL CANDIDACY STATEMENTS:

N. BARRY CARVER

Statement of Candidacy

 What previous experience or participation in civic activities would you bring to the RCC Board?

With more than a dozen years of increasing military responsibilities, I’ve demonstrated a capacity to lead and successfully work within a system.

Having put a decade into broadcasting, I thrive on daily deadlines, changing populations and a constant flow of information.

Having two young children insures I’m aware of the long-term needs and immediate wants of our next generation.

Being a lifelong writer, actor, painter and filmmaker means I have a keen comprehension of the support needed for each art to flourish.

And being a disabled veteran, I appreciate daily the needs of both the physically and financially challenged.

How would your leadership enhance RCC’s vision to bring the community together by providing opportunities for enriching leisure experiences and connections that reach out to all and foster inclusiveness and a sense of belonging?

As a new board member – and a child of the sixties, who isn’t sixty yet – I’ll bring fresh perspectives. Without new people in leadership roles, cronyism will choke our community – but there’s no need for radicals either. Living in Reston just over a year, I understand the growing need for more diversity in our thoughts and actions.

Studying computers since before PCs were invented, I see our digital divide clearly, and the lack of a coherent effort here, to bridge it. Access to computers, and the internet, must become a high priority – before we fall further behind.

Since I do not come from privilege or power, I see the strength of restoring Reston to the inclusive community of its founding – instead of the backrooms and cliques of its present reputation. But without power and money – our strength must be in numbers.

Which begs the question: Can I count on you?

JOHN GASSON

Statement of Candidacy

What previous experience or participation in civic activities would you bring to the RCC Board?

RCC Board of Governors Member (2009-2011) – Worked with RCC Board to maintain and develop RCC services and facilities to meet the leisure needs of the Reston community

Vice President, Sprint Nextel Corporation (2007-2008) – Led 750 team member organizations, managed $700 million budgets and delivered mission critical business systems.

Former President and Current Board of Directors Member, Friends of Reston (2005-present) – As President, worked collaboratively with FOR Board to raise funds needed to build Nature House.

Committee Chairman Initiative for Public Art Reston Fundraising (2009-present)

Public Speaking, Montgomery High School Students, Career Day (2006 and 2007)

How would your leadership enhance RCC’s vision to bring the community together by providing opportunities for enriching leisure experiences and connections that reach out to all and foster inclusiveness and a sense of belonging?

Having served on the RCC Board and lived and worked in Reston for 20 years, I understand the community needs for leisure experiences. I have seen Reston evolve over the last two decades and feel strongly the RCC must anticipate our community’s needs for the next 20 years and ensure the services and infrastructure are in place.

While President of the Friends of Reston, I worked collaboratively to raise the funds to build Reston Nature House. As a former officer of a Fortune 50 Reston based company, I developed effective organizations by defining a clear vision, executing an effective plan and valuing member input while getting things done. I will continue to provide effective leadership on the RCC board to ensure RCC provides the services and infrastructure our community needs in the years to come by fostering community participation, building trust and exercising practical decision making.

ROD KOOZMIN

Statement of Candidacy

What previous experience or participation in civic activities would you bring to the RCC Board?

I have lived in Reston 20 years and have served on the Reston Association neighborhood committee and have served with the Reston Citizens Association.

How would your leadership enhance RCC’s vision to bring the community together by providing opportunities for enriching leisure experiences and connections that reach out to all and foster inclusiveness and a sense of belonging?

I hope to focus on the woodshop. I hope to set up, even if I do not win this preference poll, a support group for people who like to use the woodshop, if interested please contact me.  I would like it to be open more so that citizens can have more access to the shop. I think it should be open more hours and at less cost to citizens. I would like to set up programs for youth who often do not have access to woodshops. I think planning and making things with your hands is very important mentally. For thousands of years people have made things with their hands and I think we still have this inner need.

I am against the use of extension cords around the pool.

Please vote, often very few people vote in these elections.

WILLIAM H. PENNIMAN

Statement of Candidacy

Question A:  What previous experience or participation in civic activities would you bring to the RCC Board?

I have served on the RCC Board of Governors for the past five years, acting, at various times, as the Secretary, Treasurer, and Chair of the Finance Committee. Since late 2009, I have been RCC’s alternate representative to the Reston Master Plan Special Study Task Force, where I co-chaired the Wiehle Station Subcommittee and serve on the Steering Committee. I worked closely with community groups, such as RCA’s 2020. In the past year, I chaired an advisory committee to Supervisor Hudgins concerning Fairfax County’s FY2012 budget. I have done work for non-profit organizations in addition to the RCC.

Question B:  How would your leadership enhance RCC’s vision to bring the community together by providing opportunities for enriching leisure experiences and connections that reach out to all and foster inclusiveness and a sense of belonging?

Reston is uniquely fortunate in having a community center as vibrant as RCC. Some other Virginia communities have community centers, but none rivals RCC. I have frequently participated in RCC’s classes and programs and can vouch for their excellence. I strongly support RCC’s maintaining those programs and continuing its community-building activities.

With the coming of the Metro, Reston will experience substantial commercial and residential growth. RCC will need to adjust to meet the community’s rising demand and evolving needs. In the course of working with RCC, the Master Plan Task Force, the budget advisory committee, and in other settings, I have worked with, and learned from, many members of the community. Based on my experience, I believe I can help RCC continue to engage members of our growing community and continue to fulfill RCC’s mission of community service in the face of challenges ahead.

CATHERINE VIVONA

Statement of Candidacy

What previous experience or participation in civic activities would you bring to the RCC Board?

From 1997-2001 and 2005-2011, I served the RCC board as member, Treasurer, and Chair. Additionally, I serve the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia as a board member, am an active member of Saint John Neumann Parish, and participated in the 2011 Hunter Mill Citizens’ Budget Committee. I’ve been a Reston Lion, assisted in citizenship training, and participated in local choral groups.  Professionally, my experience in program management and financial planning has given me experience in fiscal oversight and strategic planning. Currently, I teach ESL at NOVA and use the RCC for weekly bridge games and the arts.

How would your leadership enhance RCC’s vision to bring the community together by providing opportunities for enriching leisure experiences and connections that reach out to all and foster inclusiveness and a sense of belonging?  (Do not exceed 150 words.)

The RCC has consistently responded to Reston’s leisure needs through its rich venue of programs and events. In the last few years, the RCC board has emphasized partnerships and collaborative efforts as a way to leverage specialized knowledge and talents while addressing community needs. While the success of these partnerships is in no small part the accomplishment of our staff, I’m proud to be part of a governing body which set these priorities for them.  The coming of metro offers another opportunity to serve the community. Here too, the partnership model is already working to serve Reston. Through open dialog with developers, community and business organizations, and interested citizens, I hope to be part of a team that both anticipates and responds to the interests of Restonians of every age, nationality, and walk of life.  I will lend my enthusiasm, energy, expertise, and love of Reston to these efforts.

VICKY WINGERT

Statement of Candidacy

What previous experience or participation in civic activities would you bring to the RCC Board?

I have been a Reston resident since 1973 and have had many opportunities to participate actively in the Reston community. For many years I worked for the Reston Association as the Day Camp Director, Open Space Director and finally the Chief Executive Officer. I have served as President of the Reston Historic Trust and on the Reston Association Board of Directors and the Friends of Reston Board. In my younger years I coached girls’ softball and basketball teams. Reston is my home and RCC is an organization that contributes significantly to making my home an exciting place to live.

How would your leadership enhance RCC’s vision to bring the community together by providing opportunities for enriching leisure experiences and connections that reach out to all and foster inclusiveness and a sense of belonging?

I have had the opportunity to live, to work and to play in Reston for over four decades. I know the community well. The core values that shaped Reston, a welcoming place for all, are the same values that RCC brings to its outreach efforts in the community and to its programming. As the one organization that represents all of Reston, residential and commercial stakeholders alike, RCC is in the unique position to provide a sense of cohesiveness in the community. The challenge today is to find new avenues for connecting with the diverse community that Reston has become. I have spent a lifetime in the parks and recreation planning arena and bring that experience to assist in providing programming that connects with our increasingly diverse population and promotes the sense of belonging that is characteristic of the Reston community.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011 (rain date Sept. 11)
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Reston Association, 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive.
Ninety-five families will be selling a variety of items. Sign up to have a booth or stop by to browse for great bargains. Booth space equals two parking spaces. Tables are not provided. Space is limited. All sales are final. Contact Ashleigh@reston.org. Registration required. Click here for more information.

FRIENDLY REMINDER: PLEASE CLEAN UP AFTER PETS
Reston residents are reminded to obey the Fairfax County law that states the following: “It shall be unlawful for the owner of any animal or animals to keep such animal or animals in such a manner as to cause unsanitary conditions. The owner or custodian of any dog shall be responsible for the removal of excreta deposited by such dog on the property of another, including public places.” – Fairfax County Code of Ordinance, Section 41.1-2-6.

Work

RA SEEKS PART-TIME GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST I
This position provides assistance with the writing and design of the Association’s publications, brochures, flyers and advertisements, ensuring that all materials comply with graphic and style standards of the Association. Minimum Qualifications: Associate’s degree (A.A.) in Graphic Design, Communications or related field, plus two years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. For more information, please go to http://careers.reston.org/

Play

SOME POOLS TO CLOSE FOR SEASON
Several Reston Association pools will be closing for the season on Sunday, Aug. 21. Please visit our website (www.reston.org) for the complete pool schedule.

TRIP TO VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS IN RICHMOND
Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2011
8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Bus pick-up times and locations:
8 a.m., Hunters Woods Shopping Center (Ledo’s Pizza).
8:15 a.m., Thoreau Place, 1951 Sagewood Lane.
8:30 a.m., Lake Anne Fellowship House, 11450 North Shore Drive.
$36/RA members.
$42/Non-members.
Ages: Senior Adults, 55 years and older.

Join Reston Association for a guided tour of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. Enjoy artwork from almost every major world culture. The museum houses a permanent collection of more than 22,000 works of art including the Faberge exhibit. Participants will be on their own after a 30-minute guided tour. The Amuse Restaurant will be open for lunch in between exhibits. Registration is required. Call 703-435-6577 for registration information.

KIDS OUTDOORS
Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2011
9 a.m.-Noon
Location: Walker Nature Education Center, 11450 Glade Drive.
Reservations required by Aug. 19, 2011
$15/child RA members, $20/child non-members.
For ages 6-8 years old.
For reservations, please call 703-476-9689 or e-mail naturecenter@reston.org.

Parents – Drop off your child at this action-packed morning of outdoor fun.

Kids – Answer the call of the wild. Learn some tips, tricks and techniques of basic wilderness survival. Pitch a tent. Play a game of search and rescue. Discover what all backcountry hikers should carry in their packs. Find a hidden treasure in the woods using basic tools of navigation. Make your own nutritious and delicious trail mix.

NIGHT HIKE
Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011
8-9 p.m.
Location: Walker Nature Education Center, 11450 Glade Drive.
Reservations required by Aug. 26, 2011.
$4/person RA members, $6/person Non-members
For all ages (Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.)
For reservations, please call 703-476-9689 or e-mail naturecenter@reston.org.

Test your night vision as you explore the forest after sunset. Which animals are finding a place to sleep and which are just waking up? Listen to the sounds of the night chorus, and tune your senses into a new kind of nightlife.

U.S. OPEN BUS TRIP TO ARTHUR ASHE STADIUM IN NEW YORK
Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011
6 a.m.-11 p.m.
Meet at Reston Association, 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive.
Reservations required by Aug. 29, 2011
$140/person RA members, $145/person non-members.
Ages 12 years through adult (Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.)
For reservations, please call 703-435-6502 or e-mail tennis@reston.org

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM NIGHT: “FRESH”
Friday, Sept. 9, 2011
7-9 p.m.
Location: Walker Nature Education Center, 11450 Glade Drive.
Reservations required by Sept. 6, 2011.
$5 suggested donation.
For adults.
For reservations, please call (703) 476-9689 or e-mail naturecenter@reston.org.

“FRESH” celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are re-inventing our food system. Each has witnessed the rapid transformation of our agriculture system into an industrial model and offer new alternatives for a healthier and more sustainable future. After the film, join members of Sustainable Reston’s Local Foods Working Group for a discussion about healthy eating in Reston and what you can do to support a sustainable diet. Brought to you in partnership with Sustainable Reston.

GROUP TENNIS LESSONS
Registration is now open.
Available for all ages and skill levels. For more information or contact our Tennis Lesson Coordinator at 703-435-6502 or tennis@reston.org.

Reston Association plans 85+ Special Events each year. Check out what activities are available for you and your family at www.reston.org or click HERE and join us for some fun this season.

Get Involved

Please visit our new Volunteer Reston Facebook Page and “Like” us if you are a member of the Facebook community. Check out our photo albums to see our volunteers in action and find out how your neighbors and friends are getting involved. Receive up-to-date volunteer opportunities in Reston for all ages. www.facebook.com/VolunteerReston.

WEED WARRIORS PROJECT – PROTECT THE TREES
Our native trees, ferns and wildflowers are under attack by invasive exotic plants like English Ivy, Japanese Honeysuckle and Bamboo. We need warriors like you to join us in rescuing Reston’s beautiful parkland from these aggressive plants. These fast-growing, invasive plants escape from people’s yards and seriously threaten local ecosystems, taking away vital food and habitat from already stressed wildlife populations. Please spend a couple hours in our parkland protecting our forests every fourth Saturday of each month as we help restore Reston’s forests to their natural state.

Time: 10 a.m.-noon.
Children under 13 must be supervised by an adult.
Please wear long sleeves and long pants if you are allergic to poison ivy. RA will provide tools, gloves, snacks and water. To volunteer, contact Ha Brock, RA community outreach specialist at habrock@reston.org or by phone at 703-435-7986.

Protect the Trees
Saturday Sept. 24
The heavy vines of Oriental Bittersweet continue to strangle trees and take over shrubs in the natural area at Stones Throw Drive. Oriental Bittersweet is one of the most invasive and vigorous weeds in Reston. Please help us eradicate this aggressive vine. We will meet at the Bright Pond Lane cul-de-sac and walk down the path on the left of the pipe-Stem driveway. There is poison ivy at this site.

HELP MONITOR STREAMS
Ages: Must be 16 years old or older. Fall Session: Oct. 1- Nov. 30.
Become a volunteer stream monitor and help RA assess the health of our streams at several sites in Reston. If you are willing to learn, can work with a partner, enjoy data collection, wildlife identification and are interested in the health of Reston’s streams, this is the job for you. Volunteering consists of four monitoring sessions of three to four hours each for a total of 12-16 hours per year. Training and practice are required and a two-year commitment is encouraged. For more information join the volunteer monitors’ e-mail notification list by sending an e-mail to Brian Petty, Watershed Specialist at bpetty@reston.org with “Add me to the Stream Monitors list” in the message.

28TH ANNUAL RESTON TRIATHLON SEEKS VOLUNTEERS
This year’s edition of the Reston Triathlon will be held at 7 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11, beginning with the swim at Lake Audubon. The popular race attracts nearly 700 participants to swim, bike and run in south Reston. Volunteers are needed for a variety of positions. Each volunteer will receive a T-shirt and be able to enjoy post-race food and music at the South Lakes High School stadium. Please visit the website, http://www.restontriathlon.org/tri/ and click on the volunteer link on the left bar.

MORE COMMUNITY EVENTS
Note: These listings are provided by other organizations. Please contact that organization for questions or details.

RESTON MUSEUM
Owned and operated by Reston Historic Trust
1639 Washington Plaza, Reston, Va., at historic Lake Anne Plaza
703-709-7700 www.restonmuseum.org

Permanent exhibit: “From New Town to Our Town.” Get the whole Reston story through this comprehensive exhibit of the beginnings and development of this award-winning community. Enjoy a live history tour of the exhibit, presented by docents every Saturday at noon. Museum guidebooks are available.

RESTON CONCERT ON THE TOWN SERIES – MO’ SOL
Presented by Reston Town Center Association and Reston Town Center.
Saturday, Aug. 20, 7:30-10 p.m., Reston Town Center Pavilion.
Motown, soul and R&B. Alcohol permitted at restaurants only. Free. Rain or shine.

25TH ANNUAL RESTON CENTURY BIKE TOUR
Sunday, Aug. 21. Registration 6 a.m..
Reston Town Center Pavilion & W&OD Trail.
Riders select 30-, 63- or 100-mile routes. Post-ride party with food and music for participating cyclists. Friends and family join the festivities for a fee. Rain or shine. www.restonbikeclub.org.

INOVA BLOOD DRIVE
Tuesday, Aug. 23, 12-7:30 p.m., beside Reston Town Center Pavilion.
Schedule appointments at 866-256-6372 or www.inova.org/donateblood.
On-site registration.

USED BOOK SALE AT THE RESTON REGIONAL LIBRARY
Aug. 18-21. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Thursday-Saturday, and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday.
The Friends of the Reston Regional Library will hold a book sale featuring children, teen and education (K-12) materials. All proceeds from this event go to support the Reston Regional Library and the Fairfax County Public Library system. You may call 703-829-5467 if you have books that you would like to donate.

ART SHOW AND SALE – GRACEFUL SPACES AND FOUND OBJECTS
Opening Reception
Friday, Aug. 19, 2011
6-8 p.m., Reston Museum
Call 703-709-7700 or e-mail restonmuseum@gmail.com.
Enjoy a show and sale of Karen Hale’s “Oddjects”: Assemblages of found objects and scrap lumber. Hale is also known for her work with Graceful Spaces, which will also exhibit design examples during the show. Graceful Spaces is a volunteer organization that supports families in Reston Interfaith’s Transitional Housing Program, transforming empty spaces into warm, functional homes. The show and sale continue through Oct. 2. A portion of art sale proceeds benefits Reston Museum.

RESTON COMMUNITY CENTER SEEKS BOARD CANDIDATES
Reston Community Center is seeking candidates to run for seats on its 2011-2012 Board of Governors. Residents of Small District 5, age 18 or older, are eligible to run for appointment to the board.

Candidates must complete a candidacy statement in order to have their names placed on the Preference Poll ballot. Statements will be available at the center or online at www.restoncommunitycenter.com beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 29. The deadline for candidacy registration is 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 12.

This year’s Preference Poll will fill three three-year positions and the balance of a one-year term. Online and mail-in balloting, and walk-in voting will be available from Sept. 22-Oct. 13 until 5 p.m. For more information call 703-476-4500 or visit the RCC website.

MEET ACTOR-NARRATOR AT THE RESTON LIBRARY
Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m.
Reston Regional Library
For reservations, call 703-689-2700 (press 4)

Come meet actor Ralph Cosham. He performs at Arena Stage and the Shakespeare Theater. He has appeared in feature films. Fairfax County Public Libraries own many of the audiobooks that he has narrated.

BEFORE RESTON: AN INTIMATE VIEW OF THE TOWN OF WIEHLE
Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011
7-9 p.m., Reston Community Center, Lake Anne, 1609A Washington Plaza.
Call 703-709-7700 or e-mail restonmuseum@gmail.com.
Reston Museum presents a primer on the pre-history of Reston: The little town of Wiehle. Historical researcher, Audrey Haugan, will present an overview of this historic location developed by Dr. Max Wiehle on the land that is now Reston.

LAKE FAIRFAX PARK WALK
Saturday, Sept. 10.
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Meet at Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza at Lake Anne, to carpool to the Uplands Tennis Courts on Ring Road for a walk over the new foot bridge connecting Buttermilk Trail in Reston to Lake Fairfax Park. The bridge is part of the Reston Association stream restoration project being undertaken with Wetland Studies and Solutions on 29 miles of Reston streams. Led by Nancy Davis, the two-mile walk will go around Lake Fairfax and down Hunt Club Road to one of the highest elevations in Reston on Ring Road. All welcome. Call the museum at 703-709-7700.

GREAT DECISIONS – AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY
Sept. 13, 2-4 p.m.
Reston Regional Library
For reservations, please call 703-689-2700 (press 4)

Join us a stimulating roundtable discussion of American foreign policy. This month’s topic is “Sanctions and Nonproliferation.” Reading material is available at the library’s Information Desk.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH CONFERENCE
Learn about Neighborhood Watch. See police safety and rescue equipment. Free.
Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011
10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Location: Reston Association, 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston.

Neighborhood Watch Educational Workshops
You will learn:

• How to start a Neighborhood Watch
• Tips on home security and safety
• Keeping a Neighborhood Watch active
• How to recruit volunteers in your community

Brought to you by Fairfax County Police Department and Reston Association.

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE GROUP NEEDS VOLUNTEERS
Opportunities, Alternatives & Resources (OAR) of Fairfax County is a local non-profit restorative justice organization established in 1971 to provide opportunities, alternatives, and resources to offenders and their families. Male mentors are especially needed to help inmates at the county jail think through the choices they’ve made and guide them in making better choices in the future.

Time commitment: 1-2 hours weekly for 15 months. Mentoring begins three months before an inmate’s release and 12 months afterward.

There are many other volunteer opportunities at OAR and all inquiries are welcome. For details call 703-246-3055 or 703-246-3139, or e-mail: tcoleman@oarfairfax.org or ewilliams@oarfairfax.org.

RESTON COMMUNITY CENTER 2011 PREFERENCE POLL
Candidacy Registration Begins On August 29

RESTON, VA — Reston Community Center (RCC) is seeking interested candidates to run for seats on its 2011-2012 Board of Governors. The Board of Governors is a nine-member body responsible for overseeing the operations of the RCC.  All residents of Small District 5, age 18 or older, are eligible to run for appointment to the RCC Board of Governors. Candidates must complete a Candidacy Statement in order to have their names placed on the Preference Poll ballot. Candidacy Statements will be available at the Center or online at www.restoncommunitycenter.com beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, August 29. The deadline for candidacy registration is 5 p.m. on Monday, September 12.

The RCC Preference Poll is a community event held annually to select members to serve on the RCC Board of Governors. The Board of Governors establishes the overall policies for the Center and oversees its programs and budget. Board members also represent RCC at social, recreational, cultural and educational activities in Reston. Each year, typically, candidates for three seats on the Board are subject to a community preference poll with voting by residents and businesses.

This year’s preference poll will fill three three-year positions and one one-year term balance on the RCC’s Board of Governors.  Board members serve a three-year term, or the remainder of a vacated seat term. Online and mail-in balloting and walk-in voting will be available from September 22 – October 13 until 5 p.m.

The Fairfax county Board of Supervisors established the RCC Board of Governors to represent the interests of the residents of Small District 5 on issues affecting RCC. The RCC Board appointments are made by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors after residents of Small District 5 have made their preferences known in the annual poll.

For more information on the 2011 RCC Preference Poll or Board of Governors, please visit our website at www.restoncommunitycenter.com or call (703) 476-4500.

About the Reston Community Center

Each year RCC offers more than 2,000 positive, self-development experiences that enhance the quality of life for all people living and working in Reston. RCC provides a wide range of programs in arts, aquatics, enrichment and life-long learning. We also create and sustain community traditions through special events, outreach activities and facility rentals. To find the programs or events that are right for you, visit www.restoncommunitycenter.org or call 703-476-4500.

# # #

PREFERENCE POLL RESULTS AND NEW OFFICERS

RESTON, VA — Reston Community Center’s Board of Governors is pleased to announce the appointment of three members to its Governing Board.  At the request of Hunter Mill District Supervisor Catherine M. Hudgins, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors appointed three Reston citizens: Beverly Cosham, William Keefe, and Roger Lowen, to the nine-member Reston Community Center Board of Governor for terms expiring in 2013.  The appointments were made on the basis of the official results of the 2010 RCC Preference Poll.

“Reston Community Center is well-served by these outstanding residents,” said RCC Executive Director, Leila Gordon.  “They each bring unique perspectives and long-time community activism to their roles on the Board of Governors.  The Preference Poll results ratify their effectiveness as community volunteers.”

This is the second year that Reston Community Center’s Preference Poll was conducted under a new format which enables online and mail-in balloting in addition to walk-in voting at RCC facilities.

“I am honored to have the community’s trust and look forward to continuing my service,” said Beverly Cosham, the new Chair of the Board of Governors.  “I also look forward to working with the Board and RCC staff to carry forward our many initiatives that are already underway and to continue to strengthen our community partnerships and collaborations.”

At the first meeting of the RCC Board year, held November 1, 2010, the following members were elected as Officers for 2010-2011:

Beverly Cosham – Chair
Colin Mills – Vice-Chair
William G. Bouie – Treasurer
William Penniman – Secretary

RCC board members set policy, oversee the agency’s budget development and execution, and represent RCC at community functions.  Reston Community Center is funded by a special tax (4.7 cents per hundred dollars of assessed value) paid by residential and commercial property owners in Small District 5 (essentially Reston).  The Board of Governors therefore provides the community with more direct authority over the RCC’s strategic planning, fiscal priorities and programs and services.

About the Reston Community Center

Each year RCC offers more than 2,000 positive, self-development experiences that enhance the quality of life for all people living and working in Reston. RCC provides a wide range of programs in arts, aquatics, enrichment and life-long learning. We also create and sustain community traditions through special events, outreach activities and facility rentals. To find the programs or events that are right for you, visit www.restoncommunitycenter.org or call 703-476-4500.

# # #

2310 Colts Neck Road
Reston, VA 20191
Contact:  Bebe Nguyen, Director of Communications
703-476-4500, 800-828-1120 TTY, Fax 703-476-8617
bebe.nguyen@fairfaxcounty.gov
restoncommunitycenter.com

August 20, 2010

RESTON COMMUNITY CENTER 2010 PREFERENCE POLL
Candidacy Registrations Begins On August 30

RESTON, VA — The Reston Community Center (RCC) is seeking interested candidates to run for a seat on its 2010-2011 Board of Governors.  The Board of Governors is a nine-member body responsible for overseeing the operation of the RCC.  All residents of Small District 5, ages 18 or older, are eligible to run for appointment to the RCC Board of Governors.  Candidates must complete a Candidacy Statement in order to have their names placed on the Preference Poll ballot. Candidacy Statements will be available at the Center or online at www.restoncommunitycenter.com beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, August 30. The deadline for candidacy registration is 5 p.m. on Monday, September 13.

This year’s preference poll will fill three positions on the RCC’s Board of Governors.  Board members serve a three-year term.

The Fairfax county Board of Supervisors established the RCC Board of Governors to represent the interests of the residents of Small District 5 on issues affecting the Community Center.  Board appointments are actually made by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors after residents of Small District 5 have made their preferences known in the annual poll.

The RCC Preference Poll is a community event held annually to select members to serve on the RCC Board of Governors.  The Board of Governors establishes the overall policies for the Center and oversees its programs and budget.  Board members also represent the Community Center at social, recreational, cultural and educational activities in Reston.  Each year, typically, candidates for three seats on the Board are subject to a community preference poll with voting by residents and businesses.  Online, mail-in balloting and walk-in voting will be available from September 23 – October 14 until 5 p.m.

For more information on the 2010 RCC Preference Poll or Board of Governors, please visit our website at www.restoncommunitycenter.com or call the Center at (703) 476-4500.

About the Reston Community Center

Each year RCC offers more than 2,000 positive, self-development experiences that enhance the quality of life for all people living and working in Reston. RCC provides a wide range of programs in arts, aquatics, enrichment and life-long learning. We also create and sustain community traditions through special events, outreach activities and facility rentals. To find the programs or events that are right for you, visit www.restoncommunitycenter.org or call 703-476-4500.

This Tuesday evening, June 8, will be the first–and maybe last–major opportunity for you to listen or speak to the Reston Master Plan Special Study Task Force that is in the process of re-shaping Reston into an urban community.  The evening’s agenda is devoted to public comment, including comments by Reston’s various civic groups.  Everyone is encouraged to participate and I strongly encourage you to be among those present at this important meeting.

The focus of the open comment session will be to gather community inputs on what should be done in developing the Dulles Corridor area–roughly the area between Sunset Hills and Sunrise Valley drives–and Reston Town Center, especially the under-developed north area from Baron Cameron to Bowman Town Center drives.

The task force has spent months hearing County officials and outside experts about what exists in these areas and the opportunities for transit-oriented development (TOD).  TOD calls for high-density, high-rise, mixed-use (residential, office, retail, & other) development around the coming Metrorail stations.  This is your one opportunity to make a contribution before they move on to deciding what and how much may be built where over the next several decades along the Dulles Corridor and in Reston Town Center.

RCA’s Reston 2020 Committee will be participating as a civic group.  Its five work groups, covering such important issues as urban design and livability, environment, transportation, parks and recreation, and implementation, phasing, & financing, will be making very short presentations based on their months of research on these issues.  The reports these work groups have submitted to the Task Force that back their brief presentations, they will be available on Reston 2020′s blog (Reston 2020:  Citizens Shaping Reston’s Future) by Monday evening.

Reston 2020′s experience has indicated that the Task Force will listen and consider the concerns of the community.  First, the vast majority of the Task Force members are Restonians.  Second, Reston’s civic groups are adequately represented among the Task Force membership, including RA, RCA, ARCH, and the P&Z Committee.  Most importantly, the Task Force has demonstrated an increasing openness to new ideas as it has progressed.  If you have a concern or idea, I think they will listen to and consider your thoughts.

If you are invested in Reston as a place you plan to live for most of the rest of your life–and hope that maybe your children (or future grandchildren!) will live here too–I strongly urge you to attend Tuesday evening’s meeting.  The meeting will be held at the South Lakes High School Lecture Hall and begins at 7PM.  The meeting will give you the opportunity to hear other Restonians’ concerns and ideas as well as give you an opportunity to share your own.  If you wish to speak, be prepared to say what you want in three minutes because we expect many others will wish to speak as well.   Your participation in a huge turnout would be fantastic for the Task Force and the future of Reston.

Reston’s future as a planned community is important.  Please use this unique opportunity to show you care and, if you choose, share your thoughts with the Reston Task Force.  That’s Tuesday, June 8, 7PM, South Lakes High School Lecture Hall.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Regards,
Terry

“if those 6 are allowed to vote now why not some of the other 15,000+ that didn’t vote either?”

My answer is: Because they didn’t attempt to vote and have their vote messed up by Cvent and subsequently deleted.

I sat in the meeting the other night, and have read through the documents provided by RA Counsel. Honestly it doesn’t appear that the By-Laws cover this instance, the only section I see that applies is the Appeal process which states that if a candidate is aggrieved by a decision of the election committee or Secretary or Assistant Secretary, they may appeal the decision within 10 days of the decision. Mr Greenberg has made such an appeal. The By-laws state that an appeals panel made up of all directors who are not candidates in the election in question, shall promptly consider the appeal, and a majority of the panel shall constitute a quorum.

I think the problem arises out of the state statutes. Here is the section of the code that the RA legal counsel provided at the meeting:

The code says that no ballot, proxies or votes, nor any revocations thereof or changes thereto shall be accepted by the inspectors after the closing of the polls unless the circuit court of the city or county shall determine otherwise.

Similar to the hanging chads in Florida, the court is going to have to say “go back and get those 6 votes” before it is actually going to happen.

It’s just a shame how poorly mismanaged this process was handled. These 24 households that experienced the glitch should have been directly contacted in a verifiable manor and the elections staff should have made sure that the votes they did cast for the at-large position counted, and that they had the opportunity to specifically vote or not vote in the Northpoint election that they were entitled to vote in but were not given the option when they placed their online votes.

Since they were not effectively contacted during the election process and RA is bound by the law not to accept new ballots after the election without the court saying so, the issue is closed until a civil case is filed.

—

“24 North Point residents (who were owner/occupants) attempted to vote online and were only allowed to vote for the at-large candidate, they should also have been allowed to vote for the North Point representative. After RA discovered the error the deleted the initial 24 votes so that the people could revote in both races. They reassured the candidates that they would personally get in touch with all affected voters and make sure that they votes. Come to find out all they did was send a single email. Now after much prodding they admit that just 18 of the 24 revoted. That means 6 had their initial votes erased and did not revote. The question is after RA’s online voting system malfunctioned and RA deleted their votes is sending a single email sufficient follow-up. In my opinion no, every attempt should have been made to reach these people including phone calls. When you send an email you have no idea if it ever reaches the person. To me this is a prime example of voter disenfranchisement.”

—

“Given that Collins margin of victory was 2 votes (1 owner/occupant household) this calls into question the results of the election. If RA’s online voting system hadn’t malfunctioned the results might have been different. Doesn’t RA owe it to the voters involved to make sure that their votes are counted?”

—

“Given the board’s past treatment of Greenberg they should have known that a 2 vote victory for their (Chew) hand picked canidate would raise some eyebrows. They should have been out ahead of this one, particularly since the rest of the SBC canidates won their seats.

Unless there is more to this story? Get it together folks…”

—

“Just call the actual affected 6 households. A win-win for everyone involved with this “glitch”. Collins and Greenberg agree to the tally and not to pursue further – we’re done.”

—

“This issue is the one that will get me to comment when almost nothing else did.

An election process speaks to the credibility of the organization. If the process is flawed the organization is flawed and needs to be fixed. There has to be complete faith that a cast vote is a sacred vote otherwise what is the point of voting and what sort of candidate will be inspired to spend six weeks of time, money and energy in a non-election??

I would like to hear an explanation of how votes were deleted. By who and at one point? It took a lot to get me to post but this is the issue that did it.”

—

“Precedent was set to reach out to the six affected households again, when someone at RA had to directly contact the affected households, during the election, due to a “glitch” in the online system.”

—

“First RA did not volunteer the information about what happened. The squirmed and avoided direct answers until it was dragged out of them. This is not right and those involved should answer for their behavior.

Second Milton kept his mouth shut and let others shoulder the blame. Most conspicuous was Kate – who had a hand in the decision to delete the votes, took on following up and told people that it would be done right and then simply sent a single email that she did not know was ever received. She should not have shouldered or had the responsibility for these decisions. Milton Matthews as CEO the buck stops with you. How can you let one of your people stand out there alone? Shame on you,

Mistakes are made. Acknowledge them, put them right and learn from them. That’s a learning organization that can be trusted. Unfortunately that is not RA led by Mr. Matthews.”

—

“Mike Collins – keep your mouth shut and hope this blows over.

Every time you say that you understand voter rights but nothing can be done about it in this case you look bad.

I didn’t vote for you but I also don’t want to be embarrassed by you.

Please just keep quiet.”

—

“RA should have documented they reached the affected 24 households, documented the outcome, and validated the votes counted.

Any household that was not reached, should have raised a red flag, and all candidates as well as BDO notified.”

—

And the comments go on and on, as of the time that I am posting this, there are 56 comments up in arms over how the Reston Association has handled the election  glitch that caused them to then manually delete 24 ballots from the system.