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Greetings from
Dranesville Supervisor James N. Bierman, Jr.
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Dear Neighbor,
If you have been to one of my Town Halls, I tend to start with a reference to the “Where It Goes” budget pie chart (Page 29) that shows how our County spends the money its general fund. The biggest single line item is a transfer to our school system (51.4%), and after that, the “County-side” of the budget is primarily spent on (1) public safety (12.2%), (2) health and welfare (10.9%), and (3) nondepartmental fringe benefits (10.6%). Much of the rest of the budget goes to various other needs related to building a place, i.e. Community Development and Transportation (3.4%), Parks and Libraries (1.3%), and Public Works (1.6%). In other words, some of the key functions of the County government include providing for the education of kids, keeping people safe, promoting public health, and developing community. This newsletter reflects the diversity of my work this past week, and ties directly back to those core functions of local government.
ICE. Like many of you, even though I try to stay focused locally, it’s been impossible to ignore what ICE and CBP have been doing in Minneapolis in particular, and it’s important to understand how that is affecting our community and what we are doing in response. On Saturday night, I put out a video that you can watch here addressing the murder of VA ICU nurse Alex Pretti. ICE is out of control, whether it’s killing American citizens or using five-year old children as bait. As Chief Judge Patrick Schlitz pointed out in an order yesterday, “ICE has likely violated more court orders in January 2026 than some federal agencies have violated in their entire existence.” Its documented tactics go well beyond “immigration enforcement,” actively trample on basic Constitutional protections, and run completely contrary to public safety. There are far too many instances caught on camera and/or described by witnesses in which ICE agents have acted in a shocking manner, whether due to poor training or by design. (And that’s just what we have on camera, which, as we know, has not prevented the Administration from pushing lies about what we have seen.) What ICE has been doing in Minneapolis has been described as inflicting generational trauma on the children of that community. While we have not yet had the same extent of this activity here, I have spoken with Dranesville District school principals and family liaisons about what has already occurred and what could occur in the future who express the same concerns about the effects on their students and families.
As I explained in my video, I think that Fairfax County needs to continue to be prepared for ICE; promoting public safety demands it. In a past newsletter, I already discussed the importance of our Trust Policy and how our police do not take part in immigration enforcement. As a first order of business going forward, I know that there are a number of important bills being carried right now in Richmond to rein in ICE abuses, and I think that Fairfax County should monitor, work on, and find ways to support these bills. Three in particular have been patroned by Senator Saddam Salim, who represents part of the Dranesville District, and co-patroned by our other Senator, Jennifer Boysko. I have asked that SB351 (prohibiting certain civil arrests at courthouses), SB352 (restricting the wearing of facial coverings), and SB782 (limiting/restricting local police involvement in immigration enforcement) be discussed at an upcoming Legislative Committee meeting. To quote another one of our representatives, Delegate Marcus Simon, “We can enforce the law and respect the Constitution. We [can] hold criminals accountable without terrorizing communities.” I support bills to rein in an agency that simply isn’t doing so.
Second, I think it is very important that we continue to engage with our law enforcement partners on contingency planning if anything like what is happening in Minneapolis were to happen here. I have already had such conversations with our Chief of Police and our Commonwealth’s Attorney, and I support efforts to promote safety and accountability.
Third, I think Fairfax County should take steps to ensure that no current officers of these agencies that are so frequently acting unlawfully can or will ever be a part of our police force. I say this as someone who himself worked at the Department of Homeland Security and at times worked with and represented ICE and CBP. Enough is enough. The murder of Alex Pretti was sickening in its own right; the fact that in that moment some federal agents clapped in response, hid their faces and fled like cowards, and failed to provide medical care, instead, according to a witness, counting up the bullet holes (which may have potentially been for bragging rights), is also nauseating. Our public safety agencies cannot and must not operate in such a manner, and this runs contrary to the public safety culture that we have worked to create here in Fairfax County, which continues to be the safest jurisdiction of its size in the country.
Finally, as I promised to on Saturday night, I have sent messages to both our U.S. Senators to oppose DHS funding bills and shared my belief that ICE needs to be torn down root and branch. I further stand with the Members of Congress representing the Dranesville District, my former colleague James Walkinshaw and Don Beyer, in their efforts as well. Congressman Walkinshaw’s work on the Homeland Security Committee has been particularly important.
I am fully cognizant of the fact that in the grand scheme of things, I’m just a humble County Supervisor here, but I also swore an oath to the Constitution, public safety is squarely within my wheelhouse, and I’m always going to do what I can to protect and support this community. This job demands nothing less.
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SNOW. Our office has been busy fielding your calls this week and doing our best to get your information to VDOT. In Fairfax County, VDOT is responsible for maintaining our roads and, by extension, VDOT handles snow removal. Based on the volume of calls we received this week, our best guess is that this year’s response was better than during last year’s storm, but there is still room for improvement. In particular, we know that it took too long to get to some cul de sacs and other side streets. We’re going to continue talking to VDOT about what to do to improve in the future.
Because I often get asked why Fairfax County does not maintain its own roads and leaves snow removal up to VDOT, I intend to ask budget questions to that effect as a part of this year’s upcoming budget cycle. Almost all counties in the Commonwealth, with the notable exceptions of neighboring Arlington and Henrico, leave road maintenance up to VDOT. My understanding is that every time this issue has been studied, the potential cost of “taking over our roads” is astronomical, even accounting for the funds that Richmond sends to the two outlier jurisdictions, but this year I intend to ask for a real figure and analysis. What’s more, I also will ask for an analysis of the fiscal impact of County-run snow removal operations. We should fully understand the tradeoffs at play here.
All that being said, we do hope, like our Fire and Rescue Department in this video, you were able to have a *little* fun out there!
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VDOT. Before the snow arrived, I was already focused on VDOT, this time from a community development standpoint. I worked with Delegate Rip Sullivan who represents much of the Dranesville District on HB883, a “study bill” which would have directed the Secretary of Transportation to examine various VDOT processes and report back to the General Assembly regarding opportunities to cut red tape and streamline things to promote housing affordability and fiscal stewardship. Among other things, the bill asked VDOT to consider and explain whether it could meet some of the same timelines the General Assembly has imposed on localities with respect to development reviews.
As I explained in written testimony in support of the bill:
| | | | VDOT plays an important and central role in nearly every housing or infrastructure development. Too often, we have seen that VDOT processes can be long and inconsistent, leading to cost overruns and delays for private and public entities involved in the planning and development of our community. Many members of the General Assembly and indeed the Governor herself have expressed a desire to cut more red tape with respect to such processes and make it easier to build much needed and necessary housing throughout the Commonwealth to tackle our affordability issues. We cannot and will not succeed in doing that without ensuring that VDOT comments and VDOT input in the development process are streamlined and consistent. | | |
I also testified virtually at a Subcommittee Hearing in support of the Bill as you can watch here.
Unfortunately, the Subcommittee chose not to move forward with the Bill, opting instead to have the Speaker of the House send a letter making the same suggestions and requests of the VDOT Secretary given that Governor Spanberger’s Executive Order on Housing already contains similar directives. In my testimony, I urged that any such letter, if that were the path chosen, include a clear appeal and deadlines for reporting back to the General Assembly in some form, and I am pleased to say that the Subcommittee Chair agreed to honor my request.
In addition, building upon this effort, Chairman McKay has committed to sending a similar letter on behalf of the Board of Supervisors, and we will vote to do so at our Board Meeting next week. My hope is that the new Secretary will see this as an opportunity, not just because it will help with the important goal of providing more housing and tackling affordability through supply, but because it will help VDOT deliver its own road and infrastructure projects more effectively. We need more housing; we also need more sidewalks and crosswalks!
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CASINO. A final parting thought at the end of an already too long newsletter regarding the silly casino legislation that continues to move through the Virginia Senate. Can’t say I’m surprised given that the same piece of highly flawed and objectionable legislation that has not changed one bit passed the Virginia Senate last year. Sadly, casino proponents continue to trot out highly laughable fake numbers to try to sell their plan and still poll after poll rejects their game (they can’t rig this one!). My favorite laugher is the claim is that a single Tysons casino could generate enough tax revenue to cut your real estate bill by 10% – folks, if you do the math backwards from the tax rate proposed in the bill, that casino would need to pull in roughly $4.5 billion in gaming revenue a year (or that of about four and a half MGM Grand National Harbors). Ha! Ain’t gonna happen, folks!
The Board of Supervisors is still a no, and that’s all you need to know.
If you’re still reading, thanks for making it this far! Read on for more happenings around the Dranesville District this week.
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In This Edition of the Dispatch:
- Jimmy in the Community
- DC Water Potomac Interceptor Sewage Line Break
- County Trash and Recycling Service Update
- Fairfax County Guide to Snow
- Hypothermia Prevention Program
- Crisis Assistance
- FCPS Snow Day Meal Kits
- Survey on Accessory Living Units
- FCPD Community Advisory Committees
- Clean Fairfax 2025 Report
- DPWES Survey
- Active Transportation Newsletter
- Dominion Energy Programs and Resources
- Provide Feedback on Metro's Proposed FY27 Budget and Service Plan
- FIRA Yard Watch: Non-Native Holly
- FCPA Spring and Summer Camp Registration
- McLean Community Center Summer Camps & Trips Registration
- Jan. 31: Herndon Food Packaging Event
- Jan. 31: AARP Tax-Aide at Herndon-Fortnightly Library
- Jan. 31: Cozy Hygge Chill and Read at Great Falls Library
- Jan. 31: TAB Lunar New Year at Dolley Madison Library
- Feb. 1: McLean Baptist Church Chili Cook Off
- Feb. 1: Creative Writing Group at Tysons-Pimmit Library
- Feb. 1: Remembering Metilda at Colvin Run Mill
- Feb. 1: Full Moon Nature Hike and Campfire at Riverbend Park
- Feb. 2: Dog License Deadline
- Feb. 3: USD HOA Forum
- Feb. 7: Great Falls Talent Show
- Feb. 12: Sports Anxiety Parent Discussion Group with the SCC
- VDOT: 495 NEXT Updates
- NPS: GWMP Construction Updates
| | FCPS Integration and Desegregation History Presentation at Herndon Fortnightly Library | | Herndon Community Center Open House | | DC Water Potomac Interceptor Sewage Line Break | | |
Last week, DC Water teams and contractors identified and began working to contain a sanitary spill caused by a break in the Potomac Interceptor (PI), located in Montgomery County along Clara Barton Parkway near the I- 495 interchange and the C&O National Historical Park. The break has occurred downstream of the Corbalis intake for Fairfax Water, so there is no impact to Fairfax County’s drinking supply. The PI conveys approximately 19% of the County’s wastewater to DC Water's treatment facility at Blue Plains.
Since the collapse was discovered, DC Water teams have been working to contain overflows, install bypass pumping, and perform excavation work to assess the damaged infrastructure. According to DC Water, “the full extent of the pipe damage has not yet been determined, and a definitive repair timeline cannot be established until the damaged section and surrounding conditions are fully inspected. Repairing the 72-inch diameter interceptor will be complex given the volume of wastewater conveyed. Engineers are exploring whether approximately 50 feet of 72-inch pipe from a recently completed upstream project can be used for the repair, which could potentially expedite restoration”.
Physical access restrictions and warning signage remain in place in the area, and the public is advised to avoid contact with sewer overflows and keep pets away from affected areas.
If you have any questions or need additional information contact DC Water’s Customer Care team at (202) 354-3600 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or the 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400 or visit the DC Water website here.
| | County Trash and Recycling Service Update | | Please see the below updated collection schedule, customer accommodations, and safety protocols being implemented for County Trash and Recycling customers in light of Winter Storm Fern. During the inclement weather, curbside trash, recycling and Special Pickup services were suspended Monday, January 26, and Tuesday, January 27. | | |
Customer Accommodations
- Self-Haul Options: Sanitary District (County) customers may self-haul up to five 32-gallon trash bags per household to the I-66 Transfer Station or I-95 Landfill Complex at no cost until Sunday, February 1, 2026. Customers must provide a driver’s license to verify residency in the Sanitary District.
- Additional Trash and Recycling on Revised Days: Monday and Tuesday customers may place extra trash or recycling at the curb during collection on their updated service day. Properly set out materials in containers or bags to be collected.
Access and Safety Contingency
- Unsafe or Impassable Conditions: Collection will not be attempted at service locations deemed unsafe or impassable due to snow, ice, or other weather-related hazards.
- Next Scheduled Collection Day: For customers whose materials cannot be collected due to unsafe conditions, all accumulated materials will be fully picked up on their next scheduled collection day.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time, while DPWES works to recover and resume normal operations. If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact Customer Service at 703-802-3322 or email DPWESSWMPTrashCS@fairfaxcounty.gov.
| | Fairfax County Guide to Snow | | |
Fairfax County's Guide to Snow compiles what you need to know about snow and snow removal, including plowing, shoveling and winter preparedness. Check it out for important updates about the most recent snowstorm.
| | Hypothermia Prevention Program | | |
Since 2005, the Hypothermia Prevention Program has prevented death and serious injuries among Fairfax County's most vulnerable residents by ensuring that no one must sleep outside during the winter months. The program is available to any adult in need of immediate shelter.
Accommodations are provided within existing shelters that serve single adults as well as in auxiliary programs that are administered in partnership with various faith communities throughout the County. The program provides warm shelter, food, and other supportive services to connect guests to a variety of basic needs to include clothing, employment, housing and more.
If you see someone who is unsheltered and you think they are at risk of hypothermia, call the County’s non-emergency Police phone number: 703-691-2131 TTY 711. A police officer will respond and conduct a wellness check. If you see an individual in distress, please call 9-1-1.Visit Hypothermia Prevention Program for more information.
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Stay safe this winter by staying warm. The Crisis Assistance Program is designed to help households overcome energy emergencies that cannot be met by other resources. An energy emergency is determined when a household has no heat or is in imminent danger of being without heat. Crisis Assistance offers assistance with one or more of the following:
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- Payment of primary heat source utility bills.
- Payment of security deposits for primary heat utility.
- Purchase of primary home heating fuel when the fuel supply is low.
- Repair of inoperable or unsafe heating equipment.
- Replacement of heating equipment for homeowners only (when repair is not possible).
- Provision of supplemental heating equipment/maintenance.
Crisis Assistance applications are accepted until March 16, 2026. Visit this webpage for more information and to apply.
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In an effort to support students who may be experiencing food insecurity while our schools are closed, Fairfax County Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will be providing meal kits for students on Friday, January 30. The Food and Nutrition webpage has additional details about the meal kits and where they can be collected. No proof of eligibility or identification is required.
| | Survey on Accessory Living Units | | |
Potential updates to the County’s zoning regulations for accessory living units (ALUs) are under consideration, and the community is invited to weigh in through an online survey. ALUs are a secondary dwelling area of a single-family detached residence, often known as in-law suites, basement apartments or guest houses. The Zoning Ordinance contains requirements for ALUs, which include limitations to size, occupancy, entrances, parking and more. Some of these requirements could be updated through an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance. The community survey offers County residents an opportunity to submit feedback on potential changes for ALU regulations, which County staff will use alongside their analysis to determine next steps. The survey will be open through February 28.
| | FCPD Community Advisory Committees | | |
Consider joining your local FCPD Community Advisory Committees (CAC). Meetings are held at your police station each month as shown below.
CACs enhance communication between residents and the FCPD and offer residents a chance to dialogue with members of their local police districts. Members are kept informed about significant safety matters in their neighborhoods and are encouraged to bring any issues or questions to the attention of local police commanders.
Learn more about your community; become a CAC member! See below for contact information:
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The Fair Oaks Police District includes the Coates area (Innovation/Arrowbrook) of the Dranesville District.
Fair Oaks Police District: CAC is on the last Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
Major Justin Palenscar, 703-591-0966
CAC Contact: Jim Clifton, Email: cacfairoaks@gmail.com
The McLean Police District includes the McLean and Falls Church portions of the Dranesville District.
McLean Police District, CAC is on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
Major Joanna Culkin, 703-556-7750
CAC Contact: Patrick Smaldore, Email: patricksmaldore@live.com
The Reston Police District includes the Herndon 20170 and Great Falls portions of the Dranesville District.
Reston Police District, CAC is on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
Major Mohammed Oluwa, 703-478-0904
CAC contact: Dave Adams Email: restoncacchair1@gmail.com
| | Clean Fairfax 2025 Report | | |
Clean Fairfax's 2025 Annual Report is now available for review. In 2025, Clean Fairfax supported 212 community cleanups, which involved 2,800 volunteers who picked up over 88 tons of litter from our environment. These grassroots efforts saved taxpayers over $262,000! A quick reminder to get your order in now for free community cleanup supplies as you plan for spring.
Additionally, Clean Fairfax supported the Fairfax County Farmers Markets as they went plastic bag-free in 2025, becoming the first County farmers market system to do so in Virginia. After a decade of education, outreach, and partnership, this was a big change that was worth the hard work! Clean Fairfax is continuing to support efforts to move the markets away from single-use items and toward more reusable, sustainable options.
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County residents who are solid waste facility customers are being asked for their feedback about our services.
To better serve facility users, DPWES has launched a survey for residential and commercial customers. Input from this survey will help guide future improvements and enhance user experience. The survey will be open from January 15 through March 15, 2026.
Take the survey by visiting this webpage.
| | Active Transportation Newsletter | | FCDOT's Active Transportation program publishes a monthly newsletter with events, safety features, transportation plans and projects and more. Subscribe by visiting this webpage. | | | Dominion Energy Programs and Resources | | |
Dominion Energy has several resources to help customers manage energy usage and keep bills affordable. These include energy-saving programs, tools to track usage, and assistance options for those experiencing financial hardship.
Programs and tools available:
- Energy-Saving Programs: Practical ways to reduce monthly costs.
- Usage Tracking Tools: Help households monitor and manage energy use.
- Assistance Programs: Flexible payment options for customers in need.
For more details, visit Helping You Save | Dominion Energy.
| | Provide Feedback on Metro's Proposed FY27 Budget and Service Plan | | |
The public comment period for Metro’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget is now open, and the community is encouraged to participate. The $4.8 billion budget proposal focuses on delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable service improvements, including increased bus frequency, rail enhancements, and capital investments in infrastructure. There are no proposed fare increases.
You can submit feedback via an online survey until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, or attend one of Metro’s public hearings. In-person, virtual, and phone testimony options are available. Learn more about the budget and provide your input at Fiscal Year 2027 Budget | WMATA.
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FIRA Yard Watch: Non-Native Holly
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The Fairfax Invasive Removal Alliance (FIRA)Yard Watch invasive plant highlight for January is non-native holly. Holly, with its bright red berries and glossy green leaves, is often associated with winter holidays in the U.S. Yet many of the holly trees planted in our area and sold in nurseries are either native to Asia or hybrids and were introduced to the US in the late 1800s as ornamental plants.
Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) is a common landscaping plant, along with its many cultivars. One cultivar, Ilex Nellie R Stevens, is extensively planted in this area. Another common non-native holly is Ilex crenata, sky pencil Japanese holly.
Hollies escape landscaped areas via bird-dispersed berries and invade forests. They form dense thickets that shade out native shrubs and seedlings which in turn reduces plant diversity. Asian hollies provide far less ecological value than native hollies.
Good native alternatives to Asian hollies are Ilex opaca (the native American holly), Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon holly), Ilex glabra (Inkberry), and Ilex verticillata (Winterberry).
| | FCPA Spring and Summer Camp Registration | | |
Registration for Fairfax County Park Authority’s spring and summer camp opens soon!
Camp registration will open based on the camp location in Fairfax County. Review the map and the location listing on the webpage and then mark your calendars for #TeamGreen registration on Tuesday, February 3 or #TeamBlue registration on Thursday, February 5.
Please note: Waitlists for summer camps open at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 1. This update optimizes the process for filling camps. When the waitlist function turns on, fill out your camper’s schedule by signing up on waitlists for additional camps as needed. Waitlists for spring camps open the day after registration (10 a.m., February 4 for green location spring camps and 10 a.m., February 6 for blue location spring camps).
| | McLean Community Center Summer Camps & Trips Registration | | | | |
The McLean Community Center Summer Camps & Trips registration is coming up on February 2. Available for viewing now, their superhero-inspired summer camps are packed with high-energy activities that spark creativity, build teamwork, and empower kids to see the hero within themselves. Access the digital guide by visiting this webpage.
| | Jan. 31: Herndon Food Packaging Event | | |
The Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston, Rotary Club of Great Falls, Interact Club of Herndon High School and South Lakes, and The Outreach Program, will gather at Floris United Methodist Church to package 10,000–15,000 meals for families in need.
The packed meals will be donated to Cornerstones, helping local neighbors facing food insecurity. This hands-on service opportunity welcomes individuals, families, teens, and friends to participate—no prior experience required.
For more details or to sign up, visit The Outreach Program: Food Packaging Event.
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Saturday, January 31
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Floris United Methodist Church
13500 Frying Pan Road
Herndon
| | Jan. 31: AARP Tax-Aide at Herndon-Fortnightly Library | | |
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. You don't need to be an AARP member to use the service. Volunteers are IRS-certified every year, so they understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code. You can choose to have an IRS-certified volunteer prepare your taxes or provide coaching so you can prepare them yourself,
Appointments are required. Please schedule an appointment online here: Schedule Appointment with AARP Tax-Aide.
Appointments must be scheduled directly through Tax-Aide. Library staff cannot schedule appointments.
Please read all Tax-Aide information carefully and come prepared with necessary information and documents.
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Saturday, January 31
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Herndon Fortnightly Library Meeting Room
768 Center Street
Herndon
| | Jan. 31: Cozy Hygge Chill and Read at Great Falls Library | | |
The definition of hygge is, "a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture)."
Teens, turn off your cell phone and enjoy the calm ambiance. Bring your comfiest clothes, fuzzy socks, and plush sweater for a full day of relaxation. Bring your absolute favorite book to read and a store-bought side dish or snack to share. The library will provide hot chocolate & chicken noodle soup. Take a break from all the relaxing to write a thank you note or create a gratitude journal entry. This is a mindfulness day to unwind and unplug. This program is intended for ages 12 - 18; registration is encouraged.
Saturday, January 31
11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Great Falls Library Meeting Room
9830 Georgetown Pike
Great Falls
| | Jan. 31: TAB Lunar New Year at Dolley Madison Library | | |
It's the Year of the Horse!
Dolley Madison's Teen Advisory Board will host their 5th Annual Lunar New Year program to celebrate the start of the Year of the Horse.
Play games, do a craft, and try some treats (ingredient lists will be available)! This program is for all ages. Register here.
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Saturday, January 31
2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Dolley Madison Library Meeting Room 1 & 2
1244 Oak Ridge Avenue
McLean
| | Feb. 1: McLean Baptist Church Chili Cook Off | | |
The McLean Baptist Church is hosting its 13th annual Chili Cook Off. Bring your own chili to be judged and shared or attend as a guest and enjoy lunch. Salad, bread, dessert and drinks will be provided. For more information, contact BobREBL@yahoo.com.
Sunday, February 1
12:15 p.m.
McLean Baptist Church
1367 Chain Bridge Road
McLean
| | | Feb. 1: Creative Writing Group at Tysons-Pimmit Library | | |
This adult creative writing group is a welcoming space for writers of all experience levels to come together and share work, receive constructive feedback, and grow their skills. There will be daily writing prompts, plus time to workshop completed or in progress work from the group. Bring something to write in and any writing you would like feedback on! Register here.
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Sunday, February 1
1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library
7584 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church
| Feb. 1: Remembering Metilda at Colvin Run Mill | | |
Learn about Metilda, an enslaved 14-year-old girl who came to live at Colvin Run Mill. Discuss her life at the mill and the house. Examine what history tells us about the lives of enslaved children, their work, and their families. Registration for this event costs $10.
Sunday, February 1
2:00 p.m.
Colvin Run Mill
10017 Colvin Run Road
Great Falls
| | | Feb. 1: Full Moon Nature Hike and Campfire at Riverbend Park | | |
Enjoy nature's tranquil beauty and the night sky under a full moon. Your naturalist guide points out signs of creatures that glide, fly and tiptoe through the woods in the dark. Enjoy a campfire after the hike with s'mores provided. This event is for children ages six and above. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration costs $12.
Sunday, February 1
6:00 p.m.
Riverbend Park
8700 Potomac Hills Street
Great Falls
| | Feb. 2: Dog License Deadline | | |
Dog licenses are due by Monday, February 2, and the quickest and easiest way to apply or renew is online on the PetData website. Licenses are usually due by January 31. Because that date falls on a weekend this year, dog owners have until the next business day to purchase or renew their pet's license. Visit Dog License Deadline Approaching for more information.
| | | | Fairfax County will hold a virtual dialogue with Homeowners Association (HOA) leadership representatives about the proposed Unified Sanitation Districts (USD). One person from homeowners or civic associations representing communities with single-family or attached homes that bring their trash to the curb are invited to complete a survey and attend. If your HOA did not receive an invitation to the forum and survey, please email trashmail@fairfaxcounty.gov. A video recording will be posted to this webpage following the meeting. | | |
Tuesday, February 3
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
| | Feb. 7: Great Falls Talent Show | | |
Don’t miss the first annual “Great Falls Got Talent” talent show at the Great Falls Grange! Come out for an evening of fun and entertainment as talented members of the community showcase their skills. For more information, please visit Talent Show | Great Falls Optimist.
Saturday, February 7
1:00 p.m.
Great Falls Grange
9818 Georgetown Pike
Great Falls
| | Feb. 12: Sports Anxiety Parent Discussion Group with the SCC | | |
The Safe Community Coalition would like to invite you to their FREE monthly parent discussion group facilitated by licensed mental health professionals.
This month’s topic is Game On, Calm On: Helping Your Child Conquer Sports Anxiety. Learn insights from sports psychologists to help your children and teenagers regulate anxiety in competitive sports. The discussion will focus on topics such as identifying sources of sports-related anxiety, fostering a supportive and healthy athletic mindset, developing coping mechanisms, and promoting resilience and enjoyment in youth sports. The aim is to equip parents with the tools to support their child's emotional well-being and optimize their performance. For more information and to register, please visit Game On, Calm On: Helping Your Child Conquer Sports Anxiety.
Thursday, February 12
7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
McLean Community Center
1234 Ingleside Avenue
McLean
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While the new 495 Express Lanes northern extension lanes have opened, construction of the new Beltway bridges at Georgetown Pike, as well as other finishing work throughout the corridor, will continue into 2026. Another key project element that will be completed in 2026 includes a shared-use path parallel to I-495 from Lewinsville Road to near Live Oak Drive. Lane closures during non-peak travel times will continue to be necessary for crews to safely complete these important project components. Final project completion is anticipated to occur by mid-2026.
Lane Closures & Traffic Changes Report for the upcoming week will be posted tomorrow at the 495 NEXT Lane Closures webpage. Sign up to get updates and alerts here.
Check out the 495 NEXT interactive map, project background and more information by visiting 495NEXT.org. If you have any questions or concerns about the 495 NEXT project, please feel free to contact the project team at 495NorthernExtension@vdot.virginia.gov or 703-592-6430.
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Travelers should stay informed and prepared by:
| | NPS: GWMP Construction Updates | | |
Construction efforts to rehabilitate the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) are underway between I-495 and Spout Run Parkway. Construction activities will impact drivers and park visitors for the duration of the rehabilitation.
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Learn More & Stay Connected:
| | County & Community Resources | | | | |