The McLean Ear: Danners Off to Italy to See Grandchild, New Neighbors Downtown

Presidential Contender Herman Cain is Coming to Tysons Corner, Again: Republican presidential aspirant Cain liked Tysons Corner so much he returns Monday.

This time he's here to collect money: Friends of Herman Cain are giving a fundraiser at the Hilton McLean. Tickets range from $50 to $5,000. A $5,000 donation gets you into a "private reception" with the candidate, 8 VIP tickets and a photo op, presumably also with the candidate.

Cain spoke to the Northern Virginia Technology Council earlier in November.

Danners Off to See New Grandson: Unsuccessful Virginia delegate candidate Pamela Danner put down her campaign signs and leaflets and she husband David headed off to Italy right after the election.

The rush: to see their first grandchild -- a son born in October to their daughter -- a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy -- and her husband. The couple is stationed in Italy.

Congratulations Neighbors:

McLean neighbor was recently promoted to fire rescue master technician by the Manassas Fire Department. Smith lives in McLean with his family and served with the Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department before coming to Manassas.

McLean High School: Farah Albani, Caitlin Kirby, Maggie Nash and Yasmine Panah, editors; and Meghan Percival, adviser, were honored for their work on student publications at the Journalism Education Association-National Scholastic Press Association fall convention held last weekend in Minneapolis. They won "Best of Show" awards.

Herndon Coach, McLean Alum Retires: Herndon High Head Field Hockey Coach Phyllis Pearce, an alumna of Longfellow Middle School and McLean High School, has announced her as coach.

Having just completed her 21st year as head coach of the Herndon Hornets, Pearce will continue to stay on board as a special education and English teacher at Herndon for now, but will step away from her coaching duties. She said her tenure as the Hornets’ coach has been amazing but it is now time to pursue other dreams she has postponed because of time constraints.

News from Greenberry's: Voted No. 1 Local coffee shop by Northern Virginia Magazine. That's why the poster featuring Jim Vance and Doreen Gentzler hangs in the back. All the No. 1's are featured on the poster.

New Pharmacy in Town: McLean Pharmacy has finally opened in the Langley Shopping Center next door to McLean 1910. Sort of an old-fashioned pharmacy without the soda fountain (sigh). Lots of natural products. Smells wonderful like a spa. Stop by and say hello to the new neighbors.

Want to share news or even better gossip? We're the place. Email: TheMcLeanEar@gmail.com