Delegate Tom Rust : Representing the 86th District

Today we remember those lives that were lost during the 11th day of September, 2001. The Governor has asked Virginians to honor those lives lost through volunteering in your communities. I support this effort and encourage you to volunteer in whatever capacity you can. If you need some ideas, log onto www.serve.gov.

I will be attending the "Sterling 9-11 We Remember" event tonight from 5-8 p.m. in the parking lot of Chick-Fil-A, in front of the Burlington Coat Factory. Please join me as we honor the first responders who are in our community.

The McNair Elementary "Back to School Supplies" collection drive was a huge success! I want to thank all the residents who donated. We collected 28 backpacks, 14 containers of hand sanitizer, countless crayons, pencils, glue sticks, folders, and numerous other supplies. We delivered the supplies to the teachers at McNair Elementary last Friday - and were they surprised! You really helped to make it easier for students on their first week of school - Thank You!

H1N1

In light of the CDC predictions of an increased flu season due to the H1N1 virus, I wanted to make you aware that the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is expanding its call center to handle questions that Virginians may have about the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. The toll-free number is 1-877-275-8343 and will be answered during state business hours, but they will adjust hours as necessary to accommodate call volume. Virginians also are able to ask questions via e-mail through the VDH home page at www.vdh.virginia.gov.

The Fairfax County Health Department and the Loudoun County Health Department will be having informational meetings for the general public on this subject.

Fairfax County: The closest one will be on September 22 at 7 p.m. at the North County Governmental Center, 12000 Bowman Towne Drive in Reston. For more information, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/flu/town-hall-meetings.htm.

Loudoun County: September 23 at 7 p.m. at the Loudoun County Public Schools Administration Building, 21000 Education Court in Ashburn. For more information go to http://www.loudoun.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=652

Virginia Health Care Foundation Grants

The Virginia General Assembly initiated the Virginia Health Care Foundation as a public/private partnership to increase access to primary care for Virginia's uninsured and medically underserved. They recently awarded grants to help increase the number of uninsured Virginians, who can obtain the medical and dental treatment they need. I'm proud that 3 grants were given to deserving organizations in my district: the Jeanie Schmidt Free Clinic, the Loudoun Community Health Center, and the Partnership for Healthier Kids. These grants will allow each of these organizations to improve their services to uninsured Virginians.

National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month. I encourage everyone to visit www.readyvirginia.gov to learn more about making an Emergency Supply Kit, creating a plan for emergencies, and keeping informed during an emergency.

During the past several weeks, I've been busy attending many Back to Schools nights, attending the opening of the Lutie Lewis Coates Elementary School in Herndon, distributing food for Herndon Without Hunger, attending the NVTA Transportation seminar, attending a NVTC meeting, and meeting with the State Council of Higher Education. I hope to see you around our neighborhood.

Warm regards,