Broyhill Park blog

June 2019

A few items of information for you or your association newsletter:

The Board Corner: Perspectives from Penny – Welcome to summer!  Graduations, weddings, vacations, and many other family and fun activities are happening this month.  Also on the schedule are many county-related activities that can be fun -- Celebrate Fairfax, for example, -- or civic and educational, such as the police department's Citizen Advisory Committee and Community Sensory Day.  More information follows in this newsletter.

June also signals the return of the very popular free summer concert series, Spotlight by Starlight, here in Mason District.  I am particularly proud of the series which, perhaps, is the oldest continuous free concert programming in Fairfax County.  Spotlight began in the late 1980s with an occasional concert, but the series has run continuously since 1991.  On summer Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., you can attend free, live entertainment at the Newton Edwards Amphitheatre at Mason District Park, and enjoy jazz, big band, folk, rock, ethnic, and a variety of other musical performances.  And yes, the Capitol Steps are scheduled to perform on Sunday, July 21.  Bench seating is available, but many patrons bring lawn chairs to sit in the "loge" area.  A platform for handicapped patrons in wheelchairs also is available.  Dogs on leash also are permitted at the concerts.  Spotlight by Starlight concerts begin on Sunday, June 16 (Father's Day), and run through August 24.  The Saturday morning children's concerts, at 10 a.m., will begin on June 22 and conclude on August 17.

The international concert series at Ossian Hall Park, across from Annandale High School, will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, and continue each Saturday through August 17.  All seating is on the lawn, so bringing blankets or folding chairs is advised.  Concerts at both parks last about an hour and are geared for the entire family.  A complete performance schedule is available online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances.  I look forward to seeing you there! 

The Board of Supervisors adopted the FY 2020 county budget in early May.  The tax rate of $1.15 per $100 of assessed valuation remains unchanged, as does the stormwater fee.  The adopted budget fully funds the School Board's operating request, and provides a small salary increase for county employees.  The new budget takes effect on July 1. 

The Board of Supervisors recently adopted a new policy for the use, by public safety agencies, of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones.  The policy complies with the FAA restrictions for drone use near airports, and will be available for a variety of mission types, such as search and rescue, flooding assessment, crash reconstruction, fire incident/scene management, and hazardous materials responses.  Any other drone usage by county agencies would require approval by the Board of Supervisors.  No new staff positions will be required, and data retention is anticipated to be minimal.  

Land Use News – Land use items of interest this month feature park amenities in the Bailey's Crossroads and Annandale Central Business Districts:

• Interim Park at Bailey's Crossroads Breaks Ground – Construction is underway at 5827 Columbia Pike (formerly the Landmark Building) for an interim park that will include a plaza with shaded seating areas and landscaping, an open grassed play area, and flexible space for event programming.  Construction is anticipated to be completed in August.  The park is made possible through a partnership between the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, and the Office of Community Revitalization.  More information can be found on the project's website www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/planning-development/crossroads-interim-park or by contacting Suzie Battista, OCR Program Manager, at 703-324-9317, or by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

• Transformation Begins for Annandale Pop-Up Park – The Fairfax County Office of Community Revitalization, Fairfax County Park Authority, and community partners, will transform a part of county-owned property, located at 7200 Columbia Pike, into a community amenity space this summer.  A community Clean Up is scheduled for Saturday, June 15, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. to help get the space ready for use this summer and fall seasons.  Volunteers are needed to remove vines, leaves, and trash from the grounds and help prepare planting beds for a planting project.  Want to help?  Volunteers can sign up at: https://volunteer.fairfaxcounty.gov/custom/1380/#/opp_details/183646. 

Fairfax County Communities of Trust Committee (COTC) Featured at CAC Meeting – On Tuesday, June 4 at 7 p.m., the Fairfax County Police Department, Mason District Station, welcomes Shirley Ginwright, who will discuss how the COTC works with our community and public safety personnel at its Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting.  The Mason District Station is located at 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  For more information, contact the Mason District CAC by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  For information about Neighborhood Watch and other programs, contact Crime Prevention Officer Eddy Azcarate at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-354-5889.

Is Your Child's Car Seat Installed Correctly? – The Fairfax County Police Department will host a Child Car Seat Inspection at the Mason District Station, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, on Saturday, June 8, beginning at 9 a.m., and the last seat will be inspected at 11:30 a.m.  The seats are checked on a first come, first served basis.  Everyone who wishes to have a car seat inspected will need to come into the building to receive a number, and inspections may be limited, based on the number of inspectors available that day.  For more information, contact Detective Gary Moore at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-256-8035. 

It's Here: 38^th Annual Celebrate Fairfax! – Northern Virginia's largest community-wide celebration returns June 7 - 9, 2019 to the Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax.  Bring your family and friends, and enjoy Fairfax County's largest community event with a vast array of food vendors, exhibitors, interactive activities, live concerts, carnival rides, fireworks, and more!  For festival hours, tickets, and schedules, visit the Celebrate Fairfax website at http://celebratefairfax.com, or call 703-324-FAIR (3247).  Want to be part of the festivities?  Celebrate Fairfax welcomes enthusiastic and friendly volunteers to help out at the festival.  Volunteers are the backbone of this event, and it's a great way to meet new people.  Sign up at http://celebratefairfax.com/get-involved/volunteers/.

Primary Elections – Tuesday, June 11, is Democratic Primary Day.  Registered voters in districts with primary elections may vote at their regular polling places from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m.  There are 11 Democratic Party primary elections: Virginia Senate, 31^st, 33^rd, and 35^th Districts; House of Delegates, 38th and 49^th Delegate Districts; Commonwealth's Attorney; Board of Supervisors Chairman, and Braddock, Hunter Mill, Lee, and Providence Supervisor Districts.  For more information about the election process, including absentee voting, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/eb.  To access your Virginia Voter Record to update registration, apply to vote absentee, and view your voter-related information, visit https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation.

Community Sensory Day – The Fairfax County Police Department, in partnership with Neighborhood and Community Services, is hosting Community Sensory Day for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families on Saturday, June 22, 2019, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mason District Station, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Enjoy refreshments, a bounce house for children, and other activities, while learning about best practices to keep your child safe.  Questions from parents about police practices and response are welcome.  For more information, contact MPO Azcarate at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or PFC Thomas at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request by calling 703-324-4600; TTY 711.  

You've Got the Cure for the Summertime Hunger Blues – On Saturdays, June 1, 15, 22, and 29, help "Stuff the Bus" so that individuals and families, who continue to go hungry in our community, especially in the summer when children no longer get school meals, may have food to eat.  Local food pantries staff work tirelessly to provide for our neighbors, but they need your help to restock when shelves run low.  Stuff the Bus is a food collection partnership that provides needed support during these crucial times so that we, as a community, can continue to fight hunger in our neighborhoods.  For a list of Stuff the Bus locations, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/stuff-the-bus, and look for the Fastran bus.  Questions?  Call 703-222-9674; TTY 711, or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Spotlight by Starlight Summer Concerts Return to Mason District Park and Ossian Hall Park – Usher in the summer season with the Spotlight by Starlight concert series at Mason District Park, and cultural performances at Ossian Hall Park.  Enjoy a variety of free entertainment at Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike in Annandale, on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, beginning June 16 through August 23, 2019.  Ossian Hall Park, located at 7900 Heritage Drive in Annandale, features cultural performances on Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., beginning June 15 through August 17, 2019.  The 2019 Spotlight by Starlight concert schedule is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/spotlight-by-starlight.  Note: Concerts are cancelled in the event of inclement weather.  Call 703-324-SHOW (7469) one hour prior to the performance for weather-related updates.

Annandale Pop-Up Park to Host 2019 Programming Series – Stop by the pop-up park at 7200 Columbia Pike on Saturday, June 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and enjoy the summer season opening event: Nature Day.  This family friendly event will feature live native animals from Hidden Oaks Nature Center, gardening insights from Green Spring Gardens, golf tips and tricks by Pinecrest Golf Course, a fun scavenger hunt, and a unique bead for the day when you start your Mason District Beadin' Path at the pop-up park.  The Annandale Volunteer Fire Department also will stage one of its emergency vehicles, and provide fire safety education.  Want to attend?  Advance registration is  encouraged at www.fcrevite.org/annandale/parkcivicspace.html.  Learn more about the 2019 series, and the future vision for a permanent park/civic space by visiting the website, or by stopping by one of the pop-up events.  Need more information? Contact Laura Baker at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 703-324-9300.  The 2019 Programming Series is presented by the Fairfax County Office of Community Revitalization and the Fairfax County Park Authority.

The 2019 Hurricane Season Is Here! – Saturday, June 1, 2019 marks the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season, with the peak season from mid-August to late October, and ending on November 30.  Update emergency plans, refresh supplies, and be ready when tropical storms affect our region.  The Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) coordinates preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for significant emergency events that may occur in our community.  Sign up for Fairfax Alerts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts to stay informed about emergency-related activities affecting our county and region.  Questions may be answered by OEM staff by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by calling 571-350-1000.  The National Hurricane Center (NHC) provides information during active storms, including their potential paths, online at www.nhc.noaa.gov.  The National Weather Service offers hurricane safety tips and resources, and can be accessed online at www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane.

Save the Date: All You Can Eat Crab Leg and Shrimp Feast! – The Annandale (Station 8) and Bailey's Crossroads (Station 10) Volunteer Fire Departments are hosting an "All You Can Eat Crab Leg and Shrimp Feast" on Saturday, July 27, 2 - 5 p.m. at the Annandale Volunteer Fire Department Station, 7128 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  For more information, call 703-941-1328, or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

Mixed Medium Artwork Featured at Mason District Governmental Center – A mix of mediums ranging from watercolor, oil, and acrylic paintings to collage, pastel, and encaustic works will be on display at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Artists exhibiting their work are: Cynthia Schoeppel, Lydia Jechorek, Elaine Sevy, Erika Ridgeway, Relene Schuster, Karen Flann, Traci Oberle, Jan Ponder, and Margaret Reynolds, who are members of the Springfield Art Guild (SAG).  SAG is a non-profit group founded in 1969 and serves the community's interest in fine arts, fine crafts, and photography.  SAG sponsors educational programs, art exhibits, juried shows, classes for adults and children, art scholarships for high school or college students and local art events.  For more information, logon to: www.springfieldartguild.org.  The artwork is on display in the lobby through June 30, 2019.

Mason Matters! The Television Show – We usually hear about invasive animals that have made their way into our regions, but plants also can be introduced and cause substantial havoc.  One example of a common invasive plant in Fairfax County is bamboo.  Bamboo is versatile; one popular use is in landscaping, as a privacy hedge.  However, bamboo can take over yards quickly, causing destruction to the natural environment, plant species, and adjacent properties.  The June edition of Mason Matters!, the television show that brings you news and information about our Mason District community, hosted by Supervisor Penny Gross, features Jack Weyant, Director of Fairfax County's Department of Code Compliance, and Erin Stockschlaeder, Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program Coordinator for Fairfax County's Park Authority.  Mason Matters! airs on Cable Channel 16 every Thursday at 7 p.m., and every Friday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m., and daily on-line at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mason.

The Quick 411 – My family is planning outdoor activities this summer, and I saw a snake the other day, which made me wonder, does Fairfax County have information available about snakes in our region?  Yes.  With summer quickly approaching, many residents will be spending more time outdoors.  As temperatures continue to rise, the warm weather also will encourage snakes to become more active and increase opportunities for people and their pets to encounter these secretive reptiles. Fairfax County is home to an array of snake species, most of which are non-venomous and pose no threat to people.  Snakes are beneficial and provide a valuable service in our communities in the way of pest control.  For more information, visit Fairfax County's Guide to Snakes at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news2/guide-to-snakes. 

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Broyhill Park Civic Association 

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING - Friday, May 17, 2019, at 7:00pm
Location: Leis Center, 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Main Meeting Room

This will be a joint meeting with Raymondale.  There will be a presentation on urban coyotes and deer management.  The guest speaker will begin promptly at 7:00, so please arrive on time.

Afterward we will move to Room 109 for a short business meeting.

The Meeting is Open to all Broyhill Park residents

If you have anything you'd like added to the agenda, send a reply to this message.

Don't forget to pay your Civic Association dues at the meeting.  Dues are $10 per household. Thank you to all who have paid dues so far this year.

CORRECTION: Start time 7:00pm

Broyhill Park Civic Association 

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING - Friday, May 17, 2019, at 7:00pm
Location: Leis Center, 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Main Meeting Room

This is a joint meeting with the Raymondale Civic Association.  The subject will be urban coyotes and deer management.  The guest speaker will begin promptly at 7:00, so please arrive on time.

Afterward we will move to Room 109 for a short business meeting.

The Meeting is Open to all Broyhill Park residents

If you have anything you'd like added to the agenda, send a reply to this message.

You can pay your 2019 Civic Association dues at the meeting:  Dues are $10 per household per year and are used to cover all Civic Association expenses.

Broyhill Park Civic Association 

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING - Friday, May 17, 2019, at 7:15pm
Location: Leis Center, 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Main Meeting Room

Agenda: This is a joint meeting along with the Raymondale Civic Association.  Raymondale has invited us to join them to hear a speaker from the DC Coyote Project, who will address the subject of urban coyotes and other urban wildlife, so please be on time.  Afterward each civic association will have their own business meeting.  

The Meeting is Open to all Broyhill Park residents

If you have anything you'd like added to the agenda, send a reply to this message.

You can pay your 2019 Civic Association dues at the meeting:  Dues are $10 per household per year and are used to fund Civic Association events and expenses.

May 2019

A few items of information for you or your association newsletter:

The Board Corner: Perspectives from Penny – The "Merry Month of May" has been celebrated in Renaissance poetry, Shakespearean plays, and Lerner and Loewe's "Camelot."  In Mason District, May truly celebrates spring, and signals the rebirth of popular community activities.  The Farmer's Market at Mason District Park opens on May 2; Justice High School's 5K "Run with the Wolves" is May 11; Mother's Day is May 12; Green Spring Gardens plant sale is May 18; and Memorial Day is May 27.  Other free activities are listed elsewhere in this newsletter, too.

This month also marks the end of county budget deliberations, as the Board of Supervisors is set to adopt the FY 2020 budget on May 7.  Most years, we are done with the budget by the end of April, but the calendar this year was skewed a bit by a later spring break. Nonetheless, the adopted budget takes effect on July 1.  The FY 2020 budget fully funds the request from Fairfax County Public Schools, and provides for a 2.1 percent Market Rate Adjustment for county employee wages.  The tax rate of $1.15 per $100 assessed valuation remains steady.  Ninety percent of county revenue sources are capped or controlled by the Virginia General Assembly, and the majority of county revenues is dependent on the real estate tax.  Fairfax is a wealthy jurisdiction by median household income, but income taxes are paid to the state and federal governments, not localities.  Thus, the reliance on the same real property tax structure that has existed since Thomas Jefferson was governor of Virginia.

We are fortunate to live in a great county with excellent services, and a wonderfully diverse district of old and new neighborhoods, schools, parks, and libraries.  Mason District residents care about their community, and I always am encouraged and impressed by the volunteers who step up to assist their neighbors in making "Home, Sweet Home" a reality for all.  Keep up the good work!

Land Use News – Land use items of interest this month feature road paving and bus stop improvement projects:

• Road Paving in Progress in Fairfax County – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the state agency that controls and maintains roads in Fairfax County, has started its 2019 Road Paving Program.  Information about pavement treatment types, frequently asked questions, and an interactive map showing which roads will be paved is available on VDOT's website at www.virginiadot.org/projects/northern_virginia/northern_virginia_paving.asp.

• Northbound John Marr Drive at Tom Davis Drive – A bus stop improvement project begins this month with a replacement of the existing bus shelter, and construction of a new concrete pad, and installation of a bench and trash can.  The upgraded bus stop will connect to the existing sidewalk.  The new bus shelter arrives from the manufacturer this month and, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen delays, the work will be completed in June.

Farmer's Market Opens at Mason District Park – The Farmer's Market, hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority, will be open in Annandale every Thursday morning, beginning May 2, 2019, from 8 a.m. until Noon at Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike.  The Farmer's Market offers vine-ripe produce, fresh baked goods, herb plants, and much more for your spring and summer time enjoyment.  Please note this Farmer's Market will be Open on Thursday, July 4!  For a complete county-wide schedule, and other information about the Farmer's Markets visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets, or call 703-642-0128; TTY 711.

Election Officers Needed; Training Available! – The Fairfax County Office of Elections needs Election Officers for the upcoming 2019 elections.  There is a particular need for Language Election Officers, who speak Korean or Vietnamese in the Annandale and Falls Church areas.   Election Officers must be registered voters in Virginia and complete required training and forms.  You may choose to accept the $175 stipend for a full day, or volunteer your time.  To apply, complete and submit the online form at: www.vote4fairfax.com/apply.  After applying, please call the office about scheduling a new officer training class.  Training continues in May countywide for the June 11^th Democratic Primary Election, and two dates are available in Mason District: 

• Wednesday, May 8, 2019 - Mason District Governmental Center, Large Conference Room - 2 p.m. or 6 p.m.; and

• Thursday, May 9, 2019 - Mason District Governmental Center, Large Conference Room - 10 a.m.

The Mason District Governmental Center is located at 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  For more information, visit the Office of Elections website (www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/election-officers/working), or call 703-324-4735, TTY 711.

Free LED Lightbulb Exchanges in May at Select Fairfax County Libraries – Residents can receive one LED lightbulb per household, and up to four replacement LED lightbulbs in exchange for four incandescent or compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, while supplies last!  Save money, protect the planet, and reduce your utility bill by up to $75 per year by replacing your five most frequently used bulbs with LED bulbs!  The giveaway is a partnership between Energy Action Fairfax, a county program to help residents become energy efficient, and the Fairfax County Library.  The LED bulbs will be given away in May at three regional libraries:

• Thursday, May 2, 12-2 p.m. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, 703-790-8088;

• Monday, May 13, 4-6 p.m., Centreville Regional Library, 14200 St. Germain Drive, Centreville, 703-830-2223; and

• Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.,  George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, 703-256-3800.

For additional information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/energy/energyactionfairfax, or call 703-324-5955; TTY 711.  You also may send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Go Green: Bike To Work or Transit on May 17! – May is National Bike Month and Friday, May 17, 2019, is "Bike to Work Day."  Join thousands of commuters who will use pedal power, instead of horse power, to bike to work or transit!  Register free online at www.biketoworkmetrodc.org, or call 800-745-RIDE (7433).  In Fairfax County there are 26 pit stops, where the first 20,000 registrants can pick up a free T-shirts, enjoy refreshments, giveaways, and more.  NEW this year is a pit stop at the WOODROW WILSON LIBRARY AND AT ALL PARK AUTHORITY RECENTERS.  Information about pit stop locations, an interactive map, and contact information for pit stop managers is available at www.biketoworkmetrodc.org/first-time-rider-info/bike-to-work-day-2019-pit-stops#1457036398484-f7f569f6-cfeb.  Can't participate on May 17?  Bike to work, or to a transit center, any day in May by registering with Fairfax County at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/bike-walk/bike-events/biketoworkday2019, and pick up a free T-shirt and giveaways (while supplies last) at the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT), 4050 Legato Road, Suite 400 in Fairfax.  Questions?  Contact the FCDOTs Bicycle Program staff at 703-877-5600; TTY 711, by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call the FCDOT Bike Information Line at 703-324-BIKE (2453).  Information and resources during Bike to Work month, and year-round, also is available at the Fairfax County Bicycle Program Web site at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/bike/map. 

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Hosts Free Chorale Concert – The NoVA Lights Chorale invites everyone to a free choral concert, "Hooray for Hollywood!," on Sunday, May 19, 2019 at 4 p.m.  Under the direction of Stanley Livengood, the NoVA Lights Chorale, a group of men and women who love singing in four-part harmony, will perform the first of three concerts this year at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 3439 Payne Street in Falls Church/Bailey's Crossroads.  Refreshments after the concert.  NoVA Lights Chorale is a community-based vocal group, who welcomes all interested performers.  NoVA Lights is an independent corporation, not affiliated with any religious or cultural organization.  For more information about the chorale, and to sing with them, visit http://novalightschorale.jigsy.com/.  Rehearsals are on Monday nights; no auditions.

38^th Annual Celebrate Fairfax! Festival – Northern Virginia's largest community-wide celebration will return to the Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax, June 7-9, 2019.  Bring your family and friends to to the 25-acre site and enjoy a fun filled experience with more than 300 food vendors, exhibitors, and interactive activities, plus live concerts, carnival rides, a petting zoo, a Karaoke Championship, nightly fireworks, and much more!  Additional information, tickets and schedules are available at http://celebratefairfax.com/. 

Virginia Primary Elections – Virginia will hold its Primary Elections on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, from 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.  Sample ballots, candidate information, voter registration, and information about absentee voting are available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections.  Voter registration deadline for the primary is Monday, May 20, 2019 at 5 p.m.; online at 11:59 p.m.  For more information, call the Office of Elections at 703-222-0776; TTY 711, or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

Medicine Cabinet Cleanout Continues in Fairfax County – Did you miss the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day in April?  Here's some good news!  Year-round collection of unused or expired prescription medicines is available at all eight Fairfax County Police Stations' Prescription Medication Drug Take Back Boxes throughout Fairfax County.  Information about Fairfax County's response to the opioid crisis is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids.  Guidance for the safe disposal of medicines is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/drug-disposal.  Questions?  Contact the Police Department's Property and Evidence Section, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 703-246-2786.

Mixed Medium Artwork Featured at Mason District Governmental Center – A mix of mediums ranging from watercolor, oil, and acrylic paintings to collage, pastel, and encaustic works will be on display at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Artists exhibiting their work are: Cynthia Schoeppel, Lydia Jechorek, Elaine Sevy, Erika Ridgeway, Relene Schuster, Karen Flann, Traci Oberle, Jan Ponder, and Margaret Reynolds, who are members of the Springfield Art Guild (SAG).  SAG is a non-profit group founded in 1969 and serves the community's interest in fine arts, fine crafts, and photography.  SAG sponsors educational programs, art exhibits, juried shows, classes for adults and children, art scholarships for high school or college students and local art events.  For more information, logon to: www.springfieldartguild.org.  The artwork will be on display in the lobby beginning in May through June 30, 2019.

Mason Matters! The Television Show – Most people have a plan for emergencies associated with seasonal storms, but do they have a plan when they are driving?  Regardless of the season, the number of drivers on the road has increased, and it is vitally important to exercise caution on the roads year-round, and especially throughout the school year.  Rudimentary rules and practices, such as never passing a stopped school bus, sometimes seem to have been forgotten.  Did you know that passing a stopped vehicle on the right is a traffic infraction?  Do you know what to do if you hear a first responder's siren?  Reminders about parking vehicles correctly also seems to be needed.  Did you know that if a vehicle's right wheels are not parked by the curb, it can get a ticket?  Parking less than 15 feet from a fire hydrant also is an infraction.  The May edition of Mason Matters!, the television show that brings you news and information about our Mason District community, hosted by Supervisor Penny Gross, features Captain Chris Edmunds, commander of the Traffic Division, and Bob Otten, Parking Enforcement Supervisor, in the Traffic Division of the Fairfax County Police Department.  Mason Matters! airs on Cable Channel 16 every Thursday at 7 p.m., and every Friday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m., and daily on-line at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mason.

The Quick 411 – I learned that there will be some Metrorail shutdowns during the next few months.  Is there a place where I can find further information and travel alternatives in relation to Fairfax County?  Yes.  Anyone traveling within the service area of the Metrorail Blue and Yellow Lines this summer will be impacted by Metrorail station shutdowns south of the Ronald Reagan National Airport, beginning Saturday, May 25, 2019 through Sunday, September 8, 2019.  To avoid gridlock on Fairfax County roadways, those traveling in and out of Fairfax County are urged to know their travel options, plan their travel now, and avoid driving alone.  For more information, visit www.wmata.com/service/rail/PlatformProject/.

Falls Church High School’s Jaguar 5K Run/Walk and Kids 1 Mile Fun Run will take place this Saturday, April 27.  Registration will remain open up until Saturday morning before 8:00am.  The race goes through Broyhill Park, so come out and cheer on the runners Saturday morning!  Follow this link for details and a map of the race course.

Broyhill Park Earth Day Stream Clean-up and Plant Exchange THIS SATURDAY, April 27, 10:00am 

What: All Broyhill Park residents are invited to come and help clean-up litter from the Broyhill Stream Park that runs between Dye & Nealon Drives 

When: Saturday, April 27, from 10:00am to 1:00pm 

Where: Meet at the park entrance on Camp Alger Avenue between Dye and Nealon.  Parking is available in the Woodley Pool lot across the street.  

Also: DON'T FORGET the PLANT EXCHANGE!  Bring some of your garden plants, houseplants, seeds, or seedlings and exchange each one for another from someone else.  It's a lot of fun and a great way to get new plants for your garden at no cost! 

Plus: Coffee and doughnuts will be provided. 

This event is sponsored by the Broyhill Park Civic Association 

Civic Association Dues  - Dues are only $10 per household per year.  To pay your dues, mail a check payable to Broyhill Park Civic Association to:  Dues Coordinator, 3227 Alice Court, Broyhill Park 22042, or bring your dues to the stream cleanup.  THANK YOU to all residents who have paid their dues so far this year. 

Broyhill Park Butterfly Garden Clean-up & Planting

Saturday, April 13 - 1:00pm

We will be working on the butterfly garden at the triangle at Graham Road & Strathmore Street on Saturday, April 13, beginning at 1:00pm. Plans are to enlarge the garden and plant some more perennials.

Everyone is welcome to come and help! Bring a shovel or other gardening tools and meet at the triangle at 1:00. If you have any butterfly-friendly plants you'd like to divide and share, bring those for planting, too.

REMINDER

Easter Egg Hunt - Saturday, April 13 - 10:00am
Location: St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, 3241 Brush Drive, Broyhill Park

The Broyhill Park Civic Association's annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 13. The hunt will begin promptly at 10:00. Be sure to bring a basket or other container for each child to collect eggs in, and come on time, because this event goes fast once it starts. All Broyhill Park residents are invited! Bring the family, or just come and watch the fun!

April 2019

A few items of information for you or your association newsletter:

The Board Corner: Perspectives from Penny – Springtime...forsythia and daffodils...warmer temperatures...longer days...budget!  April has all of that, and more.  Public hearings about the proposed FY 2020 county budget will begin at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, and continue at 1 p.m. on April 10 and 11.  The hearings will be held in the Board Auditorium of the Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax. You can sign up to speak at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/bosclerk/speakers-form, or you can watch the hearings live on Channel 16.   The Board of Supervisors will mark up the budget on April 30, with adoption of the revised budget scheduled for May 7.

Warmer weather also heralds the beginning of planting season and yard work.  One caution: as you plan your outdoor landscape, please remember to use lawn and garden fertilizer sparingly, if at all.  Read the label.  More is not better; excess fertilizer that is not absorbed runs off into streams and local waterways, creating conditions for algae blooms and other environmental challenges.  

The next Solarize Fairfax County program begins on April 16 and extends until June 14.  During the campaign, homeowners and businesses can sign up for a free, no-obligation solar site assessment.  Participants who decide to install solar panels can benefit from discounted prices, vetted installers, financing options, a federal tax credit, and Fairfax County's solar initiatives.  For the first time, electric vehicle charging stations are included in the program.  To sign up, or learn more about the Solarize Fairfax County program, and community meeting information, log on to www.solarizefairfaxcounty.org.  

If you like free things, here's an opportunity.  Energy Action Fairfax and the Fairfax County Public Library are partnering again this year to offer free LED lightbulbs, up to five for each household.  The first LED is complimentary, but residents can exchange old incandescent or compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs for additional LEDs.  Bring in four bulbs and take home five!  The exchange program begins in early April at selected libraries, but the closest exchange in Mason District will be at the George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike in Annandale, on Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. until noon.  Last year, 8000 LEDs were distributed to about 1600 people.  Save money (LEDs consume less energy) and save the planet (last year's savings were equivalent to keeping 280,000 pounds of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere).  You can save $75 a year by replacing your five most frequently used bulbs with LEDs.

Just in time for Spring, the Board of Supervisors adopted a new C-PACE ordinance: Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy program.  C-PACE provides incentives to business owners for upgrading their buildings to become greener and more energy efficient, using third party financing, not county tax dollars.  The program will be ready for implementation soon.

April also has observances for nearly every major faith community in Mason District and Fairfax County.  However you worship, may it be with peace, respect, and understanding.

Land Use News – Land use items of interest this month feature bike lanes/road paving, and sidewalk connectivity projects:

• Road Paving and Bike Lanes – FCDOT will host a public information meeting about bike lanes in coordination with VDOT's 2019 Road Paving Program on Monday, April 1, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. at Belvedere Elementary School, 6540 Columbia Pike in Falls Church.  The formal presentation begins at 6:45 p.m.  Dedicated webpages with project information for each magisterial district are posted online.  Residents are urged to comment at the community meeting, or through online forms available at the Fairfax County 2019 Paving and Restriping Program webpage at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/2019-paving-and-restriping.

• Peace Valley Lane Walkway Project Information Meeting – The Fairfax County Department of Transportation is hosting a Public Information Meeting on Monday, April 8, 2019, from 7-9 p.m. at Justice High School, 3301 Peace Valley Lane in Falls Church.  The Open House format will consist of project display boards, and a brief presentation at 7:15 p.m.  The project entails construction of a concrete 5 ft. wide sidewalk with utility strip that is approximately, 900 ft. long, on the south side of Peace Valley Lane.  The sidewalk would connect to the existing sidewalk at the cul-de-sac, and the existing crosswalk approximately 150 ft. east of the entrance of Justice High School.

Fairfax County Police Department Recruiting – On Tuesday, April 2, from 5-7 p.m., the Mason District Station, located at 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, will have recruiters available to meet with anyone who is interested in, or working for, the police department.  Walk-ins are welcome.  The Mobile Recruiting Unit/Recruiting Bus also will be available for tours.  At 7 p.m., the Mason District Station's Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting will feature Detectives Shawn Carroll and Roy Coe from the Recruiting Section.  For more information, contact the Mason District CAC by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  For information about Neighborhood Watch and other programs, contact Crime Prevention Officer Eddy Azcarate at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-354-5889.

Seasonal Opening of Green Spring's Garden Gate Plant Shop – Celebrate Spring with the opening of the Garden Gate Plant Shop on Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.  Choose from the latest selection of plants: shrubs, native plants, wildflowers, ornamental grasses and unusual perennials and annuals.  Friends of Green Spring (FROGS) receive 10 percent off in the Garden Gate Plant Shop. The Green Spring Master Gardeners will be available to answer gardening questions.  Plant shopping, free gardening information– what a great way to spend a Saturday morning!  Green Spring Gardens Park is located at 4603 Green Spring Road in Alexandria.  For more information, visit the website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring, or call 703-642-5173; TTY 711.

Spring 2019 Culmore Cleanup – The objective of the cleanup is simple - to rid the streets of litter and bring awareness to keeping our community clean.  The spring 2019 Culmore Cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, April 13, from 9 a.m. - Noon.  Join your friends in cleaning our Culmore neighborhood and keeping our community clean all year long.  Visit Culmore Cleanup Day on Facebook, www.facebook.com/culmorecleanupday for more information, or contact Supervisor Penny Gross' office by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-256-7717.

"Not Forgotten" Candlelight Service – The Bailey's Crossroads Community Shelter Advisory Committee, New Hope Housing, and the Fairfax County Office to End and Prevent Homelessness is hosting an Interfaith Memorial Service for our Homeless Neighbors on Sunday, April 14 at 8 p.m., at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 3439 Payne Street in Falls Church.  The memorial will be held on the front lawn of the church.  In the event of inclement weather, the memorial will be observed in the sanctuary.  For more information, contact Rev. Elizabeth Tomlinson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-820-2625.  Special thanks to participants from Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center, Columbia Baptist Church, and St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church.

Tax Preparation Concludes Mid-April in Mason District – AARP volunteers are providing free tax assistance through Monday, April 15, 2019 (federal tax returns), at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  File Virginia taxes before the deadline on Wednesday, May 1.  AARP volunteers provide walk-in service on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.  All returns are filed electronically.  Bring documents, such as last year's tax return, a photo ID, and all Social Security cards.  Residents with illnesses or infirmities, which confine them to their homes, may schedule appointments with AARP for tax preparation services by calling 571-766-6268.  For information about AARP Tax-Aide, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide, or call 1-888-227-7669.

Fairfax Area Commission on Aging – Join the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging at its monthly meeting on Wednesday, April 17, from 1-3 p.m. at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  The featured speaker is Bonnie O'Leary from the Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons.  The Commission advocates for the needs of older adults and taps their potential to enrich our community.  Information about the Commission's work is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/fairfax-area-commission-on-aging, or contact Jacquie Woodruff at 703-324-5403.

Celebrate Culmore Multicultural Day 2019 – Enjoy live music, dancing, tasty cuisine, and more, at Culmore Multicultural Day "Healthy Environment, Healthy Community" on Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Woodrow Wilson Library, 6101 Knollwood Drive in Falls Church.  Admission is free.  For more information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/culmore-day, or call the Fairfax County Park Authority at 703-324-8514; TTY 711.

Save the Dates: George Mason Regional Library Semi-Annual Book Sale – The Friends of the George Mason Regional Library will co-host the popular, semi-annual book sale on Thursday, April 25, 3 - 9 p.m.; Friday, April 26, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Sunday, April 28, 12 - 5 p.m.  Thousands of books, movies, and music CDs are featured.  The book sale will be at the library, 7001 Little River Turnpike in Annandale.  For more information, call 703-813-6616 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/george-mason-regional. 

Time for Medicine Cabinet Spring Cleaning! – Spring cleaning is not limited to your home, garage or shed.  The DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.  Unused or expired prescription medicines may be dropped off at all Fairfax County Police Stations on Take Back Day.  For more information and locations near you, visit the DEA Web site after April 1 at www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html.  Can't make the DEA Collection on April 27?  The Fairfax County Police Department has Prescription Medication Drug Take Back Boxes at its eight district stations throughout Fairfax County for year-round collection of unused or expired prescription medicines.  Information about Fairfax County's response to the opioid crisis is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids.  Guidance for the safe disposal of medicines is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/drug-disposal.  Questions?  Contact the Police Department's Property and Evidence Section, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 703-246-2786.  Additional information and collection boxes statewide also can be found at https://knowrx.org/.

Want to Enjoy Seafood and Help a Worthy Cause? – The Annandale (Station 8) and Bailey's Crossroads (Station 10) Volunteer Fire Departments are hosting an "All You Can Eat Crab Leg and Shrimp Feast" on Saturday, April 27, 2 - 5 p.m. at the Annandale Volunteer Fire Department Station, 7128 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Tickets are available at www.avfd.org or www.bxrvfd.org.  For more information, call 703-941-1328, or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  The Annandale and Bailey's Crossroads Volunteer Fire Departments are non-profit 501c (3) organizations, and all donations are tax deductible.  Donations may be mailed to: AVFD, P.O. Box 806, Annandale, VA 22003; or to the Bailey's Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 1159, Falls Church, VA 22041-3609.

Election Officers Needed! – The Fairfax County Office of Elections needs Election Officers, particularly residents who speak Korean or Vietnamese, for the upcoming 2019 elections. Election Officers must be registered voters in Virginia and complete required training and forms.  You may choose to accept the $175 stipend for a full day, or volunteer your time.  There is a particular need for Language Election Officers, who speak Korean or Vietnamese in the Annandale and Falls Church areas.  To apply, complete and submit the online form at: www.vote4fairfax.com/apply.  Training begins in April.  For more information, visit the Office of Elections website (www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/election-officers/working), or call 703-324-4735, TTY 711.

Watercolors Featured at Mason District Governmental Center – Watercolors by Cari Cole are on display at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Enjoy exquisite flowers and landscapes in pastels and bold colors.  Cole is a member of the Springfield Art Guild, whose work has been displayed at public facilities, such as Fairfax County libraries and government centers, as well as private businesses in Fairfax County.  The artwork will be on display in the lobby until April 30, 2019.

Mason Matters! The Television Show – Injuries or illnesses often can involve intense pain, prompting doctors to offer prescription medication for pain management.  Some drugs, such as opioids, can provide helpful relief, but if misused, they can cause serious health problems, even death.  Opioid overdose has increased in recent years, and it has become an epidemic, a crisis for individuals, families, and communities across the country.  The April edition of Mason Matters!, the television show that brings you news and information about our Mason District community, hosted by Supervisor Penny Gross, features Sarah White, Opioid Task Force Coordinator for Fairfax County, and Dr. Benjamin Schwartz, Director of the Division of Epidemiology and Population Health at the Fairfax County Health Department.  Mason Matters! airs on Cable Channel 16 every Thursday at 7 p.m., and every Friday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m., and daily on-line at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mason.

The Quick 411 – Does Fairfax County have an Earth Day event?  Yes.  Celebrate Earth Day at the 2019 SpringFest Fairfax on Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at The Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way in Chantilly.  Clean Fairfax and the Fairfax County Park Authority invite you to help to make a "Healthy Planet-Healthy People."  Join more than 75 vendors, exhibitors and food trucks to learn about Fairfax County parks, run through an environmental obstacle course, participate in environmental crafts; check out the bees and the trees, consult with Master Gardeners, buy plants for your garden and more.  SpringFest is Fairfax County's official Earth Day and Arbor Day celebration.  For more information, visit www.springfestfairfax.org/.

Falls Church High School’s Jaguar 5K Run/Walk – Saturday, April 27, 2019

Registration is now open for the 14th Annual Falls Church High School Jaguar 5K Run/Walk and Kids 1 Mile Fun Run. The run will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Register by March 31st for the lowest entry fees! More information and the registration form can be found on www.jaguar5k.com. Please note that there will be traffic delays along and near the race route during the race, between 8:30-9:15am. The Jaguar 5K course can be found on the www.fallschurchsports.org (under the Files and Links tab) and www.jaguar5k.com websites. All pre-registered participants will receive a race t-shirt. This is a fun, healthy, school and community event for people of all ages and abilities. All proceeds benefit the FCHS Athletic Department. For more information please contact Jeanne Kelly, Director of Student Activities, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

February 2019

A few items of information for you or your association newsletter:

The Board Corner: Perspectives from Penny – As I write this column, the longest federal shutdown in history, is history!  Hundreds of thousands of federal employees across the country, and their families, were, and are, affected, and the overall fiscal damage to communities still is unknown.  In Fairfax County, which is home to thousands of career public servants, county programs and non-profit organizations ramped up to provide additional services for federal employees affected by the shutdown.  

Furloughed federal workers, who were required to work, could ride the Fairfax Connector buses for free during the length of the shutdown.  Passengers simply showed the bus driver a federal identification card with a picture.  Residents also contacted the Department of Tax Administration (DTA) to set up payment plans for their personal property tax bills due on February 15.  State law does not allow for waiver of penalties, so residents are urged to pay as much as they can, and DTA will work with impacted taxpayers to determine the best length of a payment plan.  As the shutdown dragged on, the Board of Supervisors discussed adopting a resolution to extend the personal property due date by a reasonable period (not to exceed 90 days).  That still may be appropriate, as unpaid federal workers try to re-establish credit and arrangements for missed payments during the shutdown. Simply telling people they are back on the payroll does nothing to remedy the 35 days of everyday living expenses that were missed during the shutdown.  

Elsewhere in this newsletter is information about the "Stuff the Bus" campaign to replenish local food pantries with non-perishable food.  You can donate on-site at participating grocery stores, or send a monetary donation to various faith and non-profit organizations of your choice.  A lot of neighbors need our help; please be as generous as possible.

ACCA Food Pantry Donations Accepted at Supervisor Penny Gross' Office – To help meet increased demands on local food pantries, resulting from the federal government shutdown, the Office of Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross will collect non-perishable foods for the ACCA (Annandale Christian Community for Action) Food Pantry through February 28, 2019.  Donations of unexpired canned goods – soups, fruits, and any kind of beans – pasta and rice, crackers, and cooking oil, are recommended.  Food donations may be placed in the marked boxes at the Supervisor's Office in the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Residents needing food, and other assistance, may call the Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning staff at 703-222-0880 to arrange food deliveries and other services.  Thank you for your generous help to our neighbors in need.

Fairfax County Seeks Public Insight about Proposed Public Safety UAS/Drone Program – A comprehensive Public Safety Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program is being developed by Fairfax County, and the public is invited to learn about the proposal and share their insight at one of six public information meetings that are scheduled throughout Fairfax County.  The first meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 4, 2019 (rescheduled from January 14), from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (presentation at 7 p.m.) in the Main Community Room of the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  Each public information meeting will include a static display of unmanned aircraft, followed by a presentation outlining the program.  After the presentation, a question and answer session will be held with representatives from the Office of Emergency Management, the County Attorney's Office, the Police Department, and Fire and Rescue Department.

February 2019 Winter Leadership Series for Civic and HOA Leaders Features CERT Program – Supervisor Penny Gross is hosting a popular series of meetings for Mason District Civic Association and Home Owner Association leaders that feature presentations from various departments in Fairfax County.  The Winter 2019 Leadership Series schedule continues as follows:

• Saturday, February 9, 2019 – Learn how you can be part of Fairfax County's Community Emergency Response Team from its coordinator at the Office of Emergency Management.      

• Saturday, March 9, 2019 – Learn about property maintenance from personnel with the Fairfax County Department of Code Compliance, and traffic calming from the Fairfax County Department of Transportation

The meetings are held at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, from 10 a.m. to noon.  If you can't attend, please invite another member of your board.  Reserve your seat by e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-256-7717.

Stuff the Bus and Help ACCA Help Feed Fairfax County Families – During the winter, community food pantries run low on non-perishable food to assist individuals and families in need within our community.  On Saturday, February 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the "Stuff the Bus" program will be at the Annandale Giant, 7137 Columbia Pike, and will benefit the Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA).  Additional "Stuff the Bus" events are scheduled through Monday, February 18, 2019, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at local grocery stores.  For more information, and a list of donation sites, collection dates, and times, call 703-222-9764; TTY 711, or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/stuff-the-bus. 

Shaping the Future Together: Fairfax County Strategic Plan – What should the future of Fairfax County look like?  Fairfax County Government is beginning a strategic planning process with our community to shape the future together.  Join a Regional In-Person Community Conversation between February 13 – March 6, 2019, take a five-question online survey, and share the survey/conversation invitation with neighbors, co-workers, family, and friends.  Need assistance to attend?  Arrangements for reasonable ADA accommodations, child care, transportation assistance, and interpretation services can be made by calling Amy Ordonez at 703-787-4962; TTY 711, or by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  For more information, meeting dates registration, the online survey, and more, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/strategicplan. 

Made in Fairfax: Small-Scale Production Featured at Upcoming Forum –  Fairfax County is exploring the potential of small scale production businesses, such as textiles and beverages to 3D printing and craft products.  A second "Made in Fairfax Forum" will be held on Wednesday, February 20, 2019, from 7 - 8:30 p.m. at the Fairfax County Government Center, Conference Room 9/10, 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax.  Findings will be presented from a six-month study about how creative entrepreneurs and the county can collaborate to support this innovative blend of economic and community development.  To participate, visit https://made-in-fairfax.eventbrite.com.  For more information, visit the Office of Community Revitalization website at www.fcrevit.org, send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-324-9305; TTY 711.

Disposal of Unused/Expired Medications Available Year-Round – The Fairfax County Police Department has NEW Prescription Medication Drug Take Back Boxes at its eight district stations throughout Fairfax County, adding to the 12 other sites currently available in the county.  Look for the big green box in the stations' lobbies.  Guidance for the safe disposal of medicines is available at the Health Department's website  www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/drug-disposal.  Questions?  Contact the Police Department's Property and Evidence Section, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 703-246-2786.  Additional information and collection boxes statewide also can be found at https://knowrx.org/.

Land Use News – Land use items of interest feature bikes lanes/road paving, and sidewalk connectivity projects:

• POSTPONED - Road Paving and Bike Lanes Meeting – FCDOT staff is rescheduling (from February 7 until the spring) a public information meeting about bike lanes in coordination with VDOT's 2019 Road Paving Program.  When determined by VDOT, FCDOT staff will provide a new date and time for the meeting.

• Sleepy Hollow Road Walkway Project – The Sleepy Hollow Road Walkway Project is a county-funded pedestrian project that will provide a continuous walkway from Columbia Pike to Leesburg Pike.  The project includes upgrades to crossing locations and completion of missing walkway segments near Dearborn Drive, Valley Brook Drive, Malbrook Drive, and from Marlo Drive to Aspen Lane.  The revised project plan is expected to be complete by early February 2019, and it incorporates comments received from the public resulting in adjustments to some sidewalk and buffer sections, travel lane and parking lane widths, and removal of two retaining walls to preserve trees.  A public information meeting will be scheduled in the coming months to present the revised project plan.  For project updates, visit the website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/projects/sleepy-hollow-walkway, or contact the design team at 703-877-5745.

• North Beauregard Street at North Chambliss Street Intersection – Originally recommended to eliminate the slip lane from North Chambliss Street to Beauregard Street, this intersection improvement project was revised to address pedestrian safety and mobility.  The new project entails: extending the island and redesigning the taper length for the right turn into Shackelford Terrace to reduce the crossing distance for pedestrians; adding a sidewalk from Meeting House Way to the entrance of the Lincolnia Senior Center; and add directional signage.  If allowed by VDOT, installation of a flashing beacon at the crosswalk, a Do Not Block Box sign and pavement markings at the Lincolnia Senior Center entrance, and traffic signal timing and phasing adjustments at North Beauregard Street and North Chambliss Street will be included.

Bailey's Crossroads Community Shelter's Hypothermia Program in Progress – The county's hypothermia program is in progress through March 31, 2019, thanks to partnerships with volunteers, churches, non-profit organizations, and individuals, who donate hot meals, breakfast items, beverages, and snacks.  If you would like to donate meals, or help serve them, contact Jon Nerdig, volunteer coordinator at 703-820-7621, or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Donations of coats and scarves (only) would be appreciated.  For more information, contact Khristina Koontz at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-820-7621, ext. 218.  Information about Fairfax County's program is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/hypothermia-prevention-program, or call 703-324-9492.  If you see someone at risk, call 911.

Tax Preparation Available in Mason District – AARP volunteers are providing free tax assistance through Monday, April 15, 2019 (federal tax returns), at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  File Virginia taxes before the deadline on Wednesday, May 1.  AARP volunteers provide walk-in service on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.  Please note: No Tax-Aide service on President's Day, Monday, February 18, 2019.  All returns are filed electronically.  Bring documents, such as last year's tax return, a photo ID, and all Social Security cards.  Residents with illnesses or infirmities, which confine them to their homes, may schedule appointments with AARP for tax preparation services by calling 571-766-6268.  For more information about AARP Tax-Aide, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide, or call 1-888-227-7669.

VDOT Is Ready for Snow this Winter – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has resources available during snow season, which include plow-tracking technology, and online resources for residents to use.  More than 2,500 VDOT crewmembers, in addition to contractors, are available for snow removal statewide.  Visit www.virginiadot.org/novaemergency to access all of VDOT's online information resources, including important messages and updates, news releases, and links to the customer service center, 511, and vdotplows.org.

Stay Informed:

• //twitter.com/@vadotnova">@vadotnova on Twitter;

• virginiadot.org/novaemergency for status updates, FAQs, and other resources;

• 511virginia.org for road conditions (local/statewide) and traffic cameras;

• vdotplows.org for neighborhood status and locations of plows; and

• my.vdot.virginia.gov/ or 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) to report road hazards/road maintenance.

• www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp for winter travel information.

Photographic Art Featured at Mason District Governmental Center – The Art featured in the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, is a collection of photography by Chris Fedderson, who focuses on unusual compositions of natural areas in parks, arboretums, and botanic gardens.  Fedderson is a Virginia-based photographer, who has worked in a variety of media for 30 years, and captures images featuring elements of nature that are often hidden in plain view.  The artwork will be on display in the lobby until Thursday, February 28, 2019.

Mason Matters! The Television Show – Most children grow up in loving homes with parents and siblings who pull together to ensure that all family members succeed.  Sadly, sometimes the family unit frays, for any number of reasons, and both parents and children are separated, sometimes for a short time, and sometimes forever.  Foster and adoptive parents may be married couples, singles, empty nesters, with biological children of their own, or not.  The February edition of Mason Matters!, the television show that brings you news and information about our Mason District community, hosted by Supervisor Penny Gross, features Kamonya Omatete, program manager of the Department of Family Services' Foster Care and Adoption Program, and Oriane Eriksen, acting division director of the Children, Youth and Families Division in the Department of Family Services.  Mason Matters! airs on Cable Channel 16 every Thursday at 7 p.m., and every Friday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m., and daily on-line at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mason.

The Quick 411 – I have a U.S. flag that is faded and tattered.  Is there a place to properly dispose of U.S. flags in Fairfax County?  Yes.  All Fairfax County Police stations accept U.S. flags and they are collected twice a year by Police Honor Guard for proper disposal.  Additionally, flag disposal boxes now are located at the I-66 Transfer Station and I-95 Landfill Complex.  For hours, directions, and additional information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news2/where-to-properly-dispose-of-american-flags-in-fairfax-county/.  The American Legion also will collect flags and conduct a Flag Retirement Ceremony at its site.

NATURE, HISTORY AND HORTICULTURE IN FAIRFAX COUNTY

January  2019, Vol. 19, No. 1

Start the New Year Outside 

Make 2019 a walk in the park. First Hike Fairfax returns on Jan. 1 with new suggestions for hikes and a photo contest. Hike on one of five suggested family-friendly trails, and don’t forget a camera. Join the Park Authority, Virginia’s state parks, and America’s state parks and get outside for First Hike on New Year’s Day. Details are online. 

A few items of information for you or your association newsletter: 

The Board Corner: Perspectives from Penny – Happy New Year!  As 2019 begins, thoughts turn to weather, the Virginia General Assembly session, and new tax forms.  In this newsletter, you will find helpful information from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) about how to prepare for, and cope with, winter weather that we know is in our future.  Links to VDOT's resource information may be loaded into your phone or other device so that you can see current updates as needed.  Please drive safely, and remember to clear snow from all of your vehicle, not just the windows.  Sheets of icy snow can peel off your vehicle roof and become dangerous missiles for drivers behind you.

Each year, the Board of Supervisors prepares a Legislative Program that county leaders submit to the Fairfax delegation to the General Assembly (GA).  The package outlines some specific requests for GA action, and highlights priorities for core services, such as K-12 education, transportation, and the state budget.  The Board strongly supports increased school funding for support personnel and teacher salaries, as well as for school divisions with high concentrations of English language learners, economically disadvantaged households, and special education and mental health services.  The Board strongly opposes state budget cuts that disproportionately target or affect Northern Virginia, and any policies that would divert K-12 education funding away from local public schools.  The entire 2019 Legislative Program for FY 2020 may be viewed on-line at  www.fairfaxcounty.gov/boardofsupervisors/. 

The effects of federal income tax changes in 2018 will become better known this year as local residents and homeowners begin preparing to file their income taxes in the spring.  AARP volunteers will provide free tax assistance at the Mason District Governmental Center again this year.  Find more information about the AARP Tax-Aide service elsewhere in this newsletter.

May 2019 bring you and yours a New Year filled with happiness, prosperity, and peace.

January 2019 Winter Leadership Series for Civic and HOA Leaders Features Police Commanders – On Saturday, January 12, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Supervisor Penny Gross begins her series of meetings for Mason District Civic Association and Home Owner Association leaders by welcoming the commanders from the Mason, Franconia, and West Springfield District Stations.  The Winter 2019 Leadership Series continues as follows:

• Saturday, February 9, 2019 – Learn how you can be part of Fairfax County's Community Emergency Response Team from its coordinator at the Office of Emergency Management.      

• Saturday, March 9, 2019 – Learn about property maintenance from personnel with the Fairfax County Department of Code Compliance, and traffic calming from the Fairfax County Department of Transportation

The meetings will be held at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, from 10 a.m. to noon.  If you can't make one of the meetings, please invite another member of your board.  Reserve your seat by e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-256-7717.  Please note that topics and presenters may be subject to change because of staff availability.  

Meal Donations Needed for Bailey's Crossroads Community Shelter's Hypothermia Prevention Program – The county's hypothermia program is operational through March 31, 2019, thanks to partnerships with volunteers, churches, non-profit organizations, and individuals, who donate hot meals, breakfast items, beverages, and snacks.  Meals, such as one-dish casseroles, soups, salad, entrees, vegetables, bread/rolls, and dessert are needed for 30 people for the following dates: January 2-19, 2019; and March 17-23, 2019.  Two individuals also are needed to help serve the meals during these evenings.  For more information, and to volunteer, contact Sherry Edelkamp, hypothermia coordinator at 703-966-1270 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Donations of coats and scarves (only) would be appreciated.  For more information, contact Khristina Koontz at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 703-820-7621 ext. 218.  Information about Fairfax County's program is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/hypothermia-prevention-program, or call 703-324-9492.  If you see someone at risk of hypothermia, call 911. 

Stuff the Bus to Help Feed Fairfax County Families – After the holidays, community food pantries run low on non-perishable food to assist individuals and families in need within our community.  In its ninth year, Fairfax County operates "Stuff the Bus," a food pantry giving program that partners with nonprofit organizations, grocery stores, and MV Transportation to restock food pantry shelves.  Fairfax County will host 11 separate "Stuff the Bus" events, beginning Saturday, January 19 through Monday, February 18, 2019, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at local grocery stores.  Each week a Fastran bus will park at a different location and collect food donations.  Volunteers for local non-profit food pantries will be available at each store to collect donated food from shoppers.  On Saturday, February 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. the "Stuff the Bus" program will be at the Annandale Giant, 7137 Columbia Pike, and will benefit the Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA).  For more information about the "Stuff the Bus" program and a list of donation sites, collection dates, and times, call 703-222-9764; TTY 711, or visit the Web site www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/stuff-the-bus. 

 Land Use News – Land use items of interest feature sidewalk connectivity projects currently in design, and proposed bike lanes in coordination with VDOT's 2019 Road Paving Program:

• Edsall Road Walkway – The project entails the construction of approximately 1,060 linear feet of sidewalk along the north side of Edsall Road, between 6416 Edsall Road and Timber Forest Drive.  The project includes signalized pedestrian crossings at Timber Forest Drive and Edsall Road, and construction is anticipated to begin in the spring.

• Medford Drive Walkway – Approximately 475 linear feet of sidewalk will be constructed, including curb and gutter, along the east side of Medford Drive, from Davian Drive to Four Year Run to access Annandale High School.  Construction is projected to begin in the spring.

• Edsall Road Bridge Reconfiguration – As part of the I-395 Express Lanes Project, a narrower raised median will be constructed on the Edsall Road bridge to accommodate a new signalized left turn lane from westbound Edsall Road to access the ramp to southbound I-395.  The loop ramp at the northwest quadrant of the interchange will be removed to allow improved traffic flow on southbound I-395.  The project also includes replacement of a sidewalk on the north side of the bridge, which will be wider and connect to existing sidewalks at Cherokee Avenue and the Bowl America property.  After the bridge reconfiguration is completed, westbound Edsall Road will be paved to just east of Cherokee Avenue.

• The Virginia Department of Transportation and the Fairfax County Department of Transportation will host a public information meeting on Thursday, February 7, 2019 at 7 p.m., in the Main Community Room of the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  VDOT proposes to resurface several roads in the Mason District, and implement striping modifications (where feasible) to improve road safety, provide pedestrian crossings, add parking lanes, and install bike lanes.  Construction is anticipated to begin in the spring and completed in early December 2019.  Learn about bike lanes and whether your road is on VDOT's proposed list for paving in 2019!

Tax Preparation Comes to Mason District – AARP volunteers return to provide free tax assistance to residents of all ages beginning Wednesday, January 30 through Monday, April 15, 2019 (federal tax returns), at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  File Virginia taxes before the deadline on Wednesday, May 1.  AARP volunteers will provide walk-in service on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.  Please note: No Tax-Aide service on President's Day, Monday, February 18, 2019.  All returns are filed electronically.  Bring documents, such as last year's tax return, a photo ID, and all Social Security cards.  Residents with illnesses or infirmities, which confine them to their homes, may schedule appointments with AARP for tax preparation services by calling 571-766-6268.  For more information about AARP Tax-Aide, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide, or call 1-888-227-7669.  Please Note: A limited number of Mason Tax-aide appointments will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30 a.m.  To schedule an appointment, please call 571-281-8532 after January 20, 2019.  You will receive a return call to confirm your appointment. 

Fairfax County Park Authority Updates Alcoholic Beverage Policy – The Park Authority updated its "Policy 306 Alcohol Policy," to allow for expanded alcohol consumption under specific conditions.  Alcoholic beverages still are prohibited in all parks and recreation areas unless the sale, use, consumption, or possession of alcohol on the properties are part of a Park Authority program, or approved in advance via a permitting process outlined in the new policy.  Policy 306 Alcohol Policy comes in response to an increasing number of requests for alcohol use at park facilities for gatherings and events of all types.  The new policy includes an eight-point policy statement governing the use of alcohol.  Among the key points, an approved Park Authority Beverage Use Permit is required for any and all public or private rentals, events, and activities with alcohol on Park Authority property.  Information about Policy 306 Alcohol Policy can be found online in the Park Policy Manual at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/assets/documents/administrative/park-policy-manual.pdf. 

Senior Citizen Tax Relief 2019 Workshops Coming to the Mason District Governmental Center – Supervisor Penny Gross, in collaboration with the Department of Tax Administration (DTA), is hosting free tax relief workshops on Thursday and Friday, March 14 and 15, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon both days, at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale.  DTA staff will be on-site to assist residents with completing the 2019 Tax Relief application form and answer questions.  No appointment is necessary.  Bring your 2018 tax returns or proof of 2018 gross income from all sources, and all asset information as of December 31, 2018.  Real estate tax relief is available for older adults and people with disabilities who meet certain qualifications.  Qualified residents also may be eligible for car tax and rent relief.  For more information, visit the Web site www.fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/, or call 703-222-8234; TTY 703-222-7594. 

VDOT is Ready for Snow Season – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is ready for snow with plow-tracking technology, and online resources for residents to use.  VDOT has budgeted more than $205 million for winter weather, has more than 700,000 tons of salt, sand, and treatment abrasives, and more than 2.1 million gallons of liquid calcium chloride and salt brine for road treatments.  More than 2,500 VDOT crewmembers, in addition to contractors, are available for snow removal statewide.

Highlights for Snow Season in 2019

• One stop for resources: Visit www.virginiadot.org/novaemergency to access all of VDOT's online information resources, including important messages and updates, news releases, and links to the customer service center, 511, and vdotplows.org.

Stay Informed:

• @vadotnova on Twitter;

• virginiadot.org/novaemergency for status updates, FAQs, and other resources;

• 511virginia.org for road conditions (local/statewide) and traffic cameras;

• vdotplows.org for neighborhood status and locations of plows; and

• my.vdot.virginia.gov or 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) to report road hazards/road maintenance.

• www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp for winter travel information.

How You Can Help:

• Monitor forecasts frequently;

• Adjust commutes, telework, and avoid driving if possible;

• Park in driveways or park on the odd-numbered side of the street.

• Do not shovel driveway until plows have come through;

• Have enough fuel, wiper fluid, proper tires, medication, and an emergency car kit;

• Be patient: crews need time and room to work.

Photographic Art Featured at Mason District Governmental Center – The Art featured in the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, is a collection of photography by Chris Fedderson, who focuses on unusual compositions of natural areas in parks, arboretums, and botanic gardens.  Fedderson is a Virginia-based photographer, who has worked in a variety of media for 30 years, and captures images featuring elements of nature that are often hidden in plain view.  The artwork will be on display in the lobby from Tuesday, January 2 until Thursday, February 28, 2019.

Mason Matters! The Television Show – Most children grow up in loving homes with parents and siblings who pull together to ensure that all family members succeed.  Sadly, sometimes the family unit frays, for any number of reasons, and both parents and children are separated, sometimes for a short time, and sometimes forever.  Media accounts of celebrities traveling to distant parts of the world to adopt a child often portray the process as global, rather than a local option for potential foster and adoptive parents.  But you don't have to travel to exotic ports – there are many opportunities right here in Fairfax County.  The January edition of Mason Matters!, the television show that brings you news and information about our Mason District community, hosted by Supervisor Penny Gross, features Kamonya Omatete, program manager of the Foster Care and Adoption Program, and Oriane Eriksen, Acting Division Director, Children, Youth, and Families Division of the Department of Family Services.  Mason Matters! airs on Cable Channel 16 every Thursday at 7 p.m., and every Friday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m., and daily on-line at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mason.

Mason News and Updates – To receive news and updates about Fairfax County services and events in Mason District, send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to subscribe.  If you wish to unsubscribe, send an e-mail and include unsubscribe in the subject line to remove your e-mail address from the subscription list.

The Quick 411 – Does my dog need a dog license in Fairfax County?  Yes.  All dogs four months of age or older must be licensed.  Licenses are good for the calendar year in which they are issued, and expire on December 31.  New licenses must be purchased by January 31.  All dog license tags are $10.  License tags are issued free of charge for service dogs that assist residents who are visually impaired, deaf, or need mobility assistance.  For additional information, including how and where to obtain your license, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/dog-license-information.  Taxpayers who have purchased license tags in the prior years, automatically will receive a yearly renewal application form in the mail during the month of November.