$311 Million Dollar Surplus 

Last week, Governor McDonnell announced a $311 Million Dollar Surplus for Fiscal Year 2011.  This is the second fiscal year in a row that Virginia has concluded the fiscal year with a revenue surplus. This is also the first year since 2008 that there has been actual revenue growth over the previous year.  I am pleased to have worked with my colleagues in the General Assembly and the Governor to cut unnecessary government spending, reform duplicative programs and exercise general fiscal prudence, all while not raising your taxes.  To view the Governor's press release on the surplus, click here.

New Legislation  

Nearly every bill that was passed during the 2011 General Assembly and has been signed into law by Governor McDonnell went into effect on July 1, 2011. The Division of Legislative Services has made available In Due Course: Changes to Virginia's Laws which outlines some of the new laws that are likely to have an impact on a number of Virginians.

Virginia is Top State for Business 

Virginia was recently named the Top State for Business by CNBC.  This is tremendous news and as residents of the Commonwealth, we are rightfully proud. As your delegate, I have made jobs and improving the economy a top priority and worked with my colleagues in the General Assembly on these matters.  Together we can ensure that the Commonwealth remains the best place to live, work, start a business, and raise a family.  To see the Governor's press release, visit his website. 

On Saturday, July 9th, I attended the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated and expanded Dolly Madison library.  It was a festive day and the new building is beautiful.  The building has been under major renovation for the past two years.  Our children now have a wonderful spot to read and learn and our community now has a great gathering spot.  I am excited to see how all of the changes will help the library to better serve the community.

The Friends of the Great Falls Freedom Memorial will be holding a contest this fall for rising fifth and sixth graders in Great Falls.  Participants must choose three of the 31 words around the Freedom Memorial, which is located next to the library, and explain how they describe the characteristics of their hero.  All eligible students are urged to participate in this contest and learn more about what it means to be a hero.  If interested, you can find entry forms and more information about the contest at the Great Falls library.  Winners will be announced at the Veterans Day ceremony in Great Falls on November 11.   

Clemyjontri "Concert in the Park" 

Last month, Dan and Julie Clemente hosted a reception at their home for the Friends of Clemyjontri to honor the major donors for the Second Annual "Concert in the Park" which will be held this year on September 23. This year's theme, "Under the Big Top," sets the mood for a fun and memorable evening, featuring a performance by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra.  The Governor and Mrs. McDonnell will be joining us for this festive evening.  All funds raised for the event will be used to buy a new "Big Top" canopy for the playground, providing needed shade as well as more space for use and rental.  To learn more about Clemyjontri Park click here.  For more information on the Concert and to buy tickets (which are almost sold out), contact Katya Myagkova at 703-506-8980 or[email protected]. 

McLean Orchestra "Concert in the Park" 

I recently hosted a reception for the McLean Orchestra to announce their Second Annual Concert in the Park.  The theme for this year's concert is: "A Musical Salute to Our Military."  The concert will be held on Saturday, September 10th, in honor of the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.  Lt. Col. Alan Sierichs, the former director of the Air Force band, will be conducting the orchestra, which will be playing military music as a salute to our troops. In addition to benefitting the McLean Orchestra, a portion of the proceeds will go towards the Fisher House Foundation, which helps families of wounded soldiers receive medical care.  For more information and to buy tickets, click here.