Posts Tagged ‘ashburn’
Make a Passionate Statement with the Walter P. Chrysler Museum’s Brick Legacy and Adopt-a-Vehicle Programs
Thursday, August 13, 2009Top ten wild animals that will attack pets: Special warning for Ashburn and Northern Virginia area Loudoun County pet owners and companion animal residents
Thursday, July 23, 2009Brambleton, Loudoun County Parkway residents, and Dulles Technology Corridor neighbors, read on. PR Newswire has released a report about the top ten animals likely to attack pets. With so many wooded areas nearby, by food sources growing more and more scarce sue to development, it’s likely that everyone will encounter a wild animal at some point or another — even more so at night while walking dogs in our area. As such, be careful to keep your pet leashed and close in order to prevent an accidental bite from an undesirable non-domestic animal kingdom stranger that crosses your path. Be conscientious while visiting local Virginia and Maryland beaches as well, as swimming dogs are just as likely to come across sea life that can cause injury as adult humans and children are while playing and cooling off in the water.
BREA, Calif., July 20 /PRNewswire/ — Sometimes our pets go looking for a fight, but other times the fight comes to them–from land, sea, and even air. Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation’s oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, recently reviewed more than 500 laceration/bite wound claims in search of animal-inspired incidents to determine which wild animals most frequently attacked and injured companion pets in 2008. In addition to the usual suspects–snakes, coyotes and raccoons–VPI received claims for pet injuries caused by a squirrel, scorpion, javelina, porcupine, ground hog, skunk, rat, goat, beaver, woodchuck, black bear, mountain lion, hawk, rabbit, sea urchin, and jellyfish. Following are the 10 animals aside from dogs and cats that were most responsible for pet injury claims in 2008:
Top 10 Animals To Attack Pets —————————– 1. Snake ————- 2. Coyote ————- 3. Raccoon ————- 4. Squirrel ————- 5. Scorpion ————- 6. Javelina ————- 7. Porcupine ————- 8. Ground Hog ————- 9. Skunk ————- 10. Rat ————-
Wild animal attacks typically result in pet insurance claims for treatment of lacerations, bite wounds, puncture, and soft tissue trauma. Snakebites may require antivenin and scorpion stings may cause allergic reactions requiring antihistamines. Treatment protocols vary depending on the severity of the attack and costs can range from hundreds of dollars for bandages or stitches to thousands of dollars for surgery for damaged organs or broken limbs.
Though animal attack claims came from all areas of the country, javelina and scorpion claims were exclusive to the state of Arizona. Javelinas, or peccaries, are feral pig-like omnivores native to the southwestern United States. They have been known to viciously attack both pets and people. For a detailed account of a javelina attack on a VPI-insured pet, visit http://press.petinsurance.com/pressroom/267.aspx.
“Whether in urban or rural areas, pet owners should be aware of the danger posed by wild animals,” said Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. “VPI’s data reveals that not all members of the animal kingdom observe backyard fences, or appreciate the curiosity of a pet that may enter their territory. Always make sure that a pet’s rabies vaccine is up to date and if you know that potentially dangerous wild animals are present, or you’re in an unfamiliar area, take extra care to keep your pet close and secure.”
About Veterinary Pet Insurance
Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency is the nation’s oldest and largest pet health insurance company and is a member of the Nationwide Insurance family of companies. Providing pet owners with peace of mind since 1982, the company is committed to being the trusted choice of America’s pet lovers and an advocate of pet health education. VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Optional Pet Well Care Protection for routine care is also available.
Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. More than 2,000 companies nationwide offer VPI Pet Insurance as an employee benefit. Policies are underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and in all other states by National Casualty Company, an A+15 rated company in Madison, Wisconsin. Pet owners can find VPI Pet Insurance on Facebook or follow @VPI on Twitter. For more information about VPI Pet Insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.
ODD NEWS: Michael Jackson wanted to play a transformer car in his own feature film
Wednesday, July 22, 2009In a 2004 interview with Playboy Magazine, filmmaker/actor Kevin Smith revealed the weirdest script he’s ever been asked to direct was to star Michael Jackson, honest to gosh, as a man who morphs into a car that drives around with a young boy at the wheel inside.
It’s not an urban legend and the car business is not making this up. MJ apparently had a thing for cars, with his own car collection numbering more than 75. The desire Jackson expressed to play a car character where he was the driver and car of his own vehicle but relinquishes control to a young boy is riddled with symbolism.
Read on to learn more about the Michael Jackson Car Movie project and why the idea never made it to film. The proposed movie title? “Hot Rod”… seriously (and not meant disrespectfully).
FAN CLUB NOTE: New photos of Michael Jackson with Cars can be seen here through the slideshow located at the bottom of the article….
2009 ‘4th of July’ Weekend in Loudoun County: Fireworks schedule and more from the Loudoun County Parks and Recreation Service
Thursday, July 2, 2009PRCS SPECIAL EVENTS IN JULY 2009
LOVETTSVILLE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
(All ages) Celebrate Independence Day early in Lovettsville with a hometown parade, followed by activities at the Community Center ball field. Live music, food, refreshments, and awesome fireworks add to the fun! This event is sponsored by the Lovettsville CC Advisory Board. Advance tickets are $3.00. Call 540-822-5284.
Location: Lovettsville Community Center, 57 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville, VA
$4/Ages 13 & up, $3/Ages 3-12, Free/under 3
Friday 7/3 5:30P- 9:30P
JULY 4th OPEN HOUSE AT HERITAGE FARM MUSEUM
(All ages) The Heritage Farm Museum is a great place to spend the Independence Day holiday with friends, family, and out-of-town guests. Celebrate the contribution of Loudoun farmers during WWII with a “Heroes on the Home Front” exhibit that provides opportunities for sharing family histories, making crafts, and learning about your local community. The museum will offer special holiday hours. Call 571-258-2800.
Location: Heritage Farm Museum, 21668 Heritage Farm Lane, Sterling, VA
Free event
Saturday 7/4 Exhibit hours: 11:A-12:00P, Museum Hours:10:30A- 3:00P
OL’ TIME 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION
(All ages) Celebrate an old-fashioned July 4th with pony and wagon rides, music, crafts, “Reptiles Alive,” nature exhibits, family style games, and historic tours. Please use the Loudoun Park Lane entrance. Call 571-258-3700.
Location: Claude Moore Park , 2154 Old Vestals Gap Road, Sterling, VA
$5/suggested family donation
Saturday 7/4 10:30A- 3:00P
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION IN MIDDLEBURG
(All ages) Celebrate Independence Day in Middleburg. The Community Center pool will be open from 11:00A-6:00P. The evening features music, games, contests, food, and fireworks at dusk. Call 540-687-6375.
Location: Middleburg Community Center, 300 W. Washington Street, Middleburg, VA
Free event
Saturday 7/4 6:00P- 9:00P
JULY 4TH CELEBRATION AT FRANKLIN PARK
(All ages) Celebrate America’s Independence Day while enjoying the local folk group, The Polka Dots, along with bluegrass sensation and headliner, Acoustic Burgoo. Food and concessions and fireworks at dark add to the celebration. Call 540-338-7973.
Location: Franklin Park, 17501 Franklin Park Drive, Purcellville, VA
$5.00/carload
Saturday 7/4 6:00P
ART EXHIBIT: “LENS ON LOUDOUN”
(All ages) Life in Loudoun is the subject of this juried photography exhibition of local and regional photographers. An artists’ reception will be held on July 10 from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. This exhibit is presented by the Friends of Franklin Park Arts Center. Call 540-338-7973.
Location: Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville, VA
Exhibit runs 7/10-7/31
OUTDOOR MOVIE IN THE TOWN GREEN
(All ages) A family-friendly movie begins at dark. Bring chairs and blankets. Co-sponsored by the Town of Lovettsville and Lovettsville Community Center. Call 540-822-5282 or visit http://www.loudoun.gov/lovettsvillecc for movie title.
Location: Lovettsville Town Green, 6 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, VA
Free event
Friday 7/10 7:00P-10:00P
MISSION IMPROMPTU
(All ages) Catch the hilarious antics of the Leesburg Theatre Company’s improvisation group. Light refreshments will be available. Call 571-258-3400.
Location: Carver Center, 200 Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville, VA
Donations appreciated
Wednesday 7/8 7:30P- 9:00P
THE GROWING STAGE CAMP: THE WHO’S TOMMY
(All ages) Young drama campers present Peter Townsend’s tale of a young boy’s journey from pain to triumph in an electrifying evening of rock and rolle. Call 540-338-7973 to reserve your seats.
Location: Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville, VA
Free event
Thursday 7/9 7:00P
Friday 7/10 1:00P
PARENTS NIGHT OUT
(Ages 3-11) Children will be treated to dinner and lots of fun activities while parents enjoy a night on the town. Call 540-338-5882.
Location: Philomont Community Center
$20.00
Friday 7/10 5:00P- 9:00P
COMMUNITY YARD SALE
(Ages 18 & up) The space rental price includes a general ad in local classified section. Free admission for shoppers. Table rental is available for $5. Call 703-771-5913.
Location: Douglass Community Center, 405 E. Market Street, Leesburg, VA
$10.00
Saturdays 7/11, 7/18, 7/25 8:00A- 2:00P
JULY BOOK SWAP
(All ages) Swap books for your summer reading. Children’s and adult books on tape/CD, music CDs, VHS/DVD movies are all welcome. Books and magazines in large print are needed.
Location: Claude Moore Community Center, 46111 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling, VA
Free event
Saturday 7/11 10:00A-12:00P
CHEERLEADING MINI-CLINIC
(Grades 1-6) This special summer clinic is presented by the Loudoun Valley High School cheerleaders for all levels/abilities. Session covers stunts, tumbling, motions, and dance, and ends with a five-minute performance. Participants should bring beverage and lunch. Call 571-258-3400.
Location: Carver Center, 200 Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville, VA
$20.00
Saturday 7/11 9:00A-12:00P
SUMMER KICKS SOCCER TOURNAMENT
(Ages 4-6) Join Douglass Community Center’s third annual soccer tournament. Practice on Thursday; play on Friday. All players receive a T-shirt. Register in advance. Call 703-771-5913.
Location: Douglass Community Center, 57 E. Broad Way, Leesburg, VA
$10.00
Thursday, Friday 7/16-7/17 6:30P- 7:30P
GYPSY
(All ages) A cast of talented local teens and adults present this award-winning musical. Join Rose, June, and Louise in their trip across America in the 1920’s, when vaudeville was dying and burlesque was born. Call 540-338-7973 to reserve your seats.
Location: Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville, VA
$15/Adults, $12/Students/Seniors
Thursday 7/16 7:00P
Friday 7/17 7:00P
Saturday 7/18 2:00P & 7:00P
Sunday 7/19 3:00P
CELEBRATE ICE CREAM DAY
(All ages) Celebrate National Ice Cream Day at historic Lucketts Community Center with an old-fashioned ice cream social. Call 703-771-5281.
Location: Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Road, Leesburg, VA
Free event
Monday 7/20 12:00P- 2:00P
VIRGINIA DGIF HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS
(Ages 16 & up) This is a must class for all local hunters. Advanced registration is required. Both sessions are needed for certification. Lunch and refreshments will be sold. Call 703-771-5281.
Location: Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Road, Leesburg, VA
Free event
Saturday 7/25 8:00A-5:00P
Sunday 7/26 1:00P-5:00P
PRINCESS FOR A DAY ICE CREAM SOCIAL
(All ages) Families will join the court of the Virginia Dairy Princess Program for princess lessons and ice cream at an old-fashioned social. Girls are invited to show off their new princess skills in a pageant beginning at 1:00 p.m. The first 100 children receive a tiara. Call 571-258-3800 to register.
Location: Heritage Farm Museum, 21668 Heritage Farm Lane, Sterling, VA
$5.00/adult; $3.00 child
Saturday 7/25 12:00P- 2:00P
SUMMER THUNDER CAR SHOW
(All ages) Bring your best ride to the largest, single-day cruise-in show in Virginia! Car buffs, gear heads, racing fans, and anyone who loves driving or watching these special cars will enjoy a fun-filled, show-and-tell kind of day! There will also be food, entertainment, vendors, and – new this year – a kids’ area! Call 540-338-7603.
Location: Franklin Park, 17501 Franklin Park Drive, Purcellville, VA
Free event
Saturday 7/25 3:00P-7:00P
THE GROWING STAGE CAMP: PIRATES OF PENZANCE
(All ages) Young drama campers present this hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, dewy-eyed daughters and an eccentric major general – all morally bound to the often ridiculous dictates of honor and duty. Call 540-338-7973 to reserve your seats.
Location: Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville, VA
Free event
Thursday 7/30 7:00P
Friday 7/31 1:00P
Loudoun County Fireworks Shows and Date listed by Community: 4th of July
Friday, June 26, 20092009 Fireworks Displays in Loudoun County for Fourth of July Independence Day celebrations — General Listings about where to go and how to plan your festivities. Things to do for Dulles Technology Corridor residents.
Listed here by community area… fun activity for children and parents — a patriotic thing to do to celebrate the holiday with friends is to plan a meet-up with family and friends to watch the fireworks together as an annual event. Fireworks displays make a wonderful low cost date night alternative, too!
EARLY DATE!!! Tuesday, June 28th
- Brambleton Fireworks Display – 9:30pm (rain date June 29)
- Dulles Town Center – 9:30pm (rain date June 29)
Friday, July 3rd
- South Riding Display at SR Golf Club- 9:30 (rain date July 5)
- Waterford – 9pm (rain date July 5)
- Lansdowne Resort- 9:25pm (NO rain date) ** There will be a concert beginning at 7:30pm. Fireworks will follow.
- Eastern Loudoun Independence Day Celebration – 9:15pm (event is hosted at Sterling Golf Club)
- Lovettesville Community Center -9:15pm (Parade will begin at 5:30 at the community center. DC3 will provide entertainment at 7pm)
Saturday, July 4
- Franklin Park – 9:30pm (rain date July 5)
- Ashburn Village – 9:30pm (rain date July 5)
- Middleburg Community Center – dark (rain date July 5)
- Hillsboro Community Center – dark (rain date July 6)
- Claude Moore Park (old fashioned 4th of July) – Events held all day from 10:30am – 3pm (donations suggested)
- Ida Lee Festivities – 9:30pm (rain date July 5) – Parade begins at 10am. Gates open at 6pm for live entertainment before the fireworks display.
For more information about fireworks displays in Loudoun County for 2009, please visit https://brambletonbuzz.wordpress.com/2009/07/02/4th-of-july-weekend-in-loudoun-county-fireworks-schedule-and-more-from-the-loudoun-county-parks-and-recreation-service/.
Twitter Journalism site gives How To Use Twitter Effectively as a reader tips and tricks
Thursday, June 25, 2009How to verify a tweet
Breaking Tweets prides itself on giving many different types of Twitterers credit for breaking news, whether it be someone in Honduras with a dozen followers recording the first “earthquake” tweet or a news organization providing the first details of a major story.
FOLLOW CONNECTIONSPREP ON TWITTER
The big question of the day about news posted and retweeted on Twitter is, “How do you know a tweet’s legitimate?”
Here’s some methods [they] use at Breaking Tweets that you can try too:
1. Timestamp: Anytime something breaks with hundreds of tweets in minutes, like a natural disaster, it’s good to type various keywords and keep paging back until you find the first few tweets about the news. Unless these Tweeters are psychic, they’re probably among the first to have knowledge something’s up and they may have additional context depending on the story.
2. Contextual tweets: Immediately check the Twitter user’s page for related tweets around the tweet you found. You’d be surprised how often someone posts a follow-up tweet later or precedes the ‘breaking tweet’ with other pertinent info. This could provide additional context for the story, but it can also help verify a person, especially if they’re posting pictures or other content from the scene.
3. Authority: Check the Twitter user’s Bio. Is this a journalist? Is it a random person off the street? Is it a prankster? How about a comedian? Check their Web site or blog if they have one listed. See what you can learn about them here. It’s important to have some idea who the Tweeter is as you assess the validity of any tweet.
4. How many past tweets: Be leery of new Twitter users. If it’s one of their first tweets, it could be anybody starting an account and claiming to have info on a breaking story. The newer the account is, the more skeptical you have to be.
5. What are the past tweets: Check for context by examining the person’s Twitter stream. Go back several pages and see what they normally tweet about. Do they interact with people? Check the accounts they interact with for additional background on piecing together who this person might be. If they say they’re in Paris, are they talking about Paris a month ago? Are they tweeting in French? If not, why not? Evaluate the person and get a feel from them as best you can based on past tweets.
6. Google them: Google their Twitter name because sometimes people use a Twitter handle as their user name on other sites. See if you can find a LinkedIn page, a Facebook page and other sites that add to who these people might be. If they don’t list a full name on their Twitter page, and their user name doesn’t turn up much, you have reason to be more skeptical. The more information the person hides, the harder it is to know who they are. Likewise, the more open they are with info, the more likely they’re legitimate.
7. Check for related tweets: If someone says they heard an explosion in Lahore, what are other people in Lahore tweeting about? Check that and see if anyone else is reporting this. Chances are if a series of diverse people are tweeting about it at the same exact time — and they don’t appear related from looking at their accounts –, something’s up.
8. Talk to them directly: Send an @ reply. Start following them and try to send a direct message. Get a conversation going. Ask for more information and build a relationship as best you can. This will help you create a profile of this person and piece together their connection to the story.
These are ways that Breaking Tweets works to verify a tweet. It’s all about context, really – the person’s past tweets, other tweets that support their tweet, seeking more information about them specifically, and seeking more information about the topic. And of course the timing of the tweet is critical too. If you stay on top of the tweets and follow these sorts of steps to verify tweets, you’ll be well on your way to finding great story tips and breaking news well before traditional methods.
Date : June 25th, 2009
Category : How To’s
Author : Craig Kanalley
CAFE BILL WITHOUT THE CREAM: Exotic Car Examiner examines the CAFE 35.5 MPG Gas Mileage Legislation
Friday, May 22, 2009President Barak Obama has announced in no uncertain terms that automobile manufacturers in America will be required to comply with a green technology mandate that insists vehicles not only reduce emissions but improve gas mileage. The 35.5 MPG rubric that Obama has suggested has muscle car lovers and SUV or private truck drivers in a panic. Add to the information that these types of vehicles will not continue to be produced that Obama has openly shared that auto costs will rise by a minimum of $1300 on average and you can see why the media is easily able to launch frightened and cash strapped Americans into an automotive inspired trendy level of “car fashion” panic.
Brambleton Buzz 
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