Fairfax County’s 427 public parks are among the best in the nation. From 1.44 acre Bel Air Park in Mason District to 1,555 acre Huntley Meadows in Lee District, and everything in between, Fairfax County residents and visitors can find nearly any activity close by, and often free.

My duties as a reporter broadened last week to accommodate the chance to interview a beauty pageant winner.

It is this newspaper’s mission to achieve just these purposes and we are thankful for the recognition and the fact that, after almost 30 years, we’re still here.

Barb being a part of any effort ensured good humor, great cheer, abundant energy, and an empathy and caring that was palpable.