Having trouble viewing this email? View as Webpage

Dear Neighbor, 

Thank you for joining our Fall Town Halls in Great Falls, Mclean, and most recently in Herdon last night. It’s always a good thing for me to get out into our community and listen to residents’ concerns so that I can better serve you on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. 

Speaking of service to others, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), and today I want to highlight the work of Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence Services. While domestic violence is a year-round challenge, this month offers a valuable opportunity to renew our commitment to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and working toward solutions that create a safer community for everyone.  

This year’s DVAM theme, Until Everyone is Safe: One Community, Interwoven, emphasizes that ending domestic violence is not an individual task – it is a shared responsibility that demands a united community working together so every person can live free from harm.  

Did you know? 

1. 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 9 men will experience sexual violence, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner during their lives. 
2. 26%: the approximate number of children younger than 18 exposed to domestic violence every year. 
3. More than 5 people, mostly women, lose their life to domestic violence every day. 

Research also shows survivors of domestic violence have significantly higher rates of long-term health problems, including diabetes, frequent headaches, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, asthma, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

What can you do? 

Join Domestic and Sexual Violence Services in observing DVAM: 

1. Sign up for a three-session webinar series on stalking and sexual and domestic violence. Participants will learn how to identify stalking behaviors and dynamics, assess danger in stalking cases, and apply strategies for enhancing victim safety. This training series (virtual, Wednesdays, October 14-28, 1-3 p.m.) is free but registration is required. 
2. Attend this year’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Community Annual Meeting on Friday, October 16, where the community will celebrate the previous year’s achievements and re-dedicate themselves to the work—one community, interwoven--until everyone is safe. 
3. Wear purple on Fairfax County’s Purple Day, Thursday, October 22. Take photos of your purple attire and post them on social media with the #PurpleDay hashtag. Don’t forget to tag Fairfax County Department of Family Services on Facebook.  
4. Listen to Unscripted: Conversations about Sexual and Domestic Violence, a podcast from Domestic and Sexual Violence Services that features all aspects of interpersonal violence, including prevention strategies and impacts and solutions for support. 
5. Contact the Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 if you or someone you care about is experiencing violence in a relationship or to learn more about domestic and sexual violence. 
6. Spread the word! Use the DVAM graphic below to add to your e-signature line and promote DVAM on social media sites. 

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the ways each of us can play a role in fostering a safer, more supportive community. Whether it’s attending an event, sharing information, checking in on a friend, or simply wearing purple later this month, these everyday actions help weave the kind of community where everyone is valued and protected. I appreciate all you do to make our district stronger, and I hope you’ll join me in renewing our commitment to ensuring that every person has the chance to live free from fear and harm. 

All the best,

Please share this newsletter with your friends and neighbors. If this email was forwarded to you, consider subscribing to receive Dranesville District news and updates.

Make sure you’re following us on Social Media for daily and real-time updates:

Jimmy in the Community

Herndon at McLean Football Game

Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department

Open House

The Addams Family at the Alden Theatre

Herndon Town Hall

Interfaith Resiliency Conference

McLean 5K

McLean Volunteer Fire Department

Open House

National Youth Visionaries Association

Awards Ceremony

Treasure Island at the Alden Theatre

Senior Safety Summit

92nd Criminal Justice Academy Graduation

Unscripted: Conversations about Sexual and Domestic Violence - The Intersection of Traumatic Brain Injuries and Domestic Violence

Brain injuries resulting from intimate partner violence can often go unrecognized or untreated, leaving survivors without the specialized support they may need. In fact, we have long thought traumatic brain injuries—or TBIs—caused by domestic violence were less damaging than the ones athletes and folks in the military experience. But we’re learning this form of violence can cause a distinctive pattern of brain damage, one that is at least as disabling as the damage that occurs on a football field or a battlefield.

On this episode of Unscripted, listen to host Kendra Lee, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Clinical Services Coordinator Katia Aguirre-Vega; Donna Meltzer, CEO, of Brain Injury Services; and Jess Linquist, intake case manager also with Brain Injury Services, discuss the intersection of TBIs and domestic violence.

Register for October 2026 Domestic Violence

Tier One Training

This introductory training will teach participants about the dynamics of domestic violence, systems that respond and resources available to those impacted by violence in our community.

Who should attend these trainings? - Victim services professionals, health and human service providers, court professionals, volunteers, community leaders, and anyone in the Fairfax County community who wants to learn more about domestic violence.

There is no cost associated with this training, but registration is required. Seats fill up quickly, so register now to reserve your spot!

Wednesdays & Thursdays, October 21 - November 18

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Online (via Microsoft Teams)

VDOT Road Improvement Project - Pardon Our Dust

There is Latex Modified Emulsion Treatment being done on Route 7, near Georgetown Pike. Once this treatment is complete, the road markings will be repainted, and the bollards on the left-hand turn lane will be replaced. The project is expected to be finished on Sunday, October 18, but please note that the date may shift if there is inclement weather.

Accessory Living Units

Zoning Ordinance Amendment

On September 29, 2026, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Resolution authorizing advertisement of public hearings before the Planning Commission (PC) and the Board to consider a Zoning Ordinance amendment related to ALUs.

Planning Commission Public Hearing: October 29, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.

Board of Supervisors Public Hearing: November 17, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.

The Zoning Ordinance amendment, detailed in the staff report, proposes to:

• Streamline the process
• Remove unnecessary requirements
• Update the standards
• Remove the zoning administrative permit requirement, renewal, recordation, owner occupancy, and parking requirements
• Allow more lots to have a detached ALU by revising the current two-acre minimum lot size and special permit requirements for a detached ALU. The amendment would allow a detached ALU by right on a lot that is 36,000 square feet in size or greater, and with SP approval on a smaller lot

The proposed text for the amendment includes changes to the Zoning Ordinance as recommended by staff as well as alternative options for consideration by the PC and Board. For instance, regarding the minimum lot size for a detached ALU, the PC and Board may consider any size larger than the staff recommendation of 36,000 square feet (up to two acres) or smaller, which could include no lot size requirement.  

For more details on this proposed amendment, visit the project webpage, view the staff report, and read the FAQ document.

For more information regarding this proposal, please contact Casey Judge at casey.judge@fairfaxcounty.gov and Carmen Bishop at carmen.bishop@fairfaxcounty.gov, or by phone at (703) 324-1314. 

From Hackathon to District Pilot: High Schoolers Hack the School Commute

Three FCPS seniors are behind a pilot program, the SafeWalkr app, that aims to help students find the safest route to walk to school. The three friends realized existing online maps are prioritizing speed over safety, a flaw for students trying to get to school on their own. They also realized they had the skill set to do something about this issue. It will debut this week for families who live in the walking zones of 14 FCPS schools. 

A pilot program launched on Wednesday, October 7, to coincide with National Walk and Roll to School Day. SafeWalkr will debut for families who reside in the walking zones at 14 FCPS schools, chosen based on the results of a Traffic and Pedestrian survey done during the 2025-2026 school year.

Here are Dranesville student schools involved in the pilot:

• Elementary Schools: Chesterbrook, Lemon Road, and McNair.
• Middle School: Cooper

Housing Waitlist Opening

Fairfax Circuit Court Releases Free

Property Alert Notification System

The Fairfax Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, in collaboration with the Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration (DTA) and the Department of Information Technology (DIT), announced today the launch of the new Fairfax Circuit Court Property Alert Notification System, a FREE e-alert service available through MyFairfax for Fairfax County and City of Fairfax property owners.

The Fairfax Property Alert System is designed to help property owners stay informed and receive an email alert if any documents are filed on their real estate record with the court. By providing a timely alert, the system provides early detection of potential fraud, including unauthorized deed filings, or other suspicious activity involving real property records.

For more information and to set up Property Alerts, visit this website.

Early Voting

Three voting sites are open for early voting for the November 3 General Election. Unlike election day voting, when voters must vote in their precinct, during early voting, any Fairfax County voter may vote at any Fairfax County early voting location. For more information, please visit In-Person Early Voting | Elections. 

Other Important Dates and Links: 

• Register to Vote/Update Registration through October 23, 2026 
• Apply for ballot to be mailed to you through October 23, 2026 
• Who/What is on your ballot? 

October 15: Town of Herndon Candidate Forum

Want to learn more about the candidates running for Herndon Town Council? Join Cornerstones for an evening of conversation and community engagement.

This nonpartisan forum gives residents of the town of Herndon an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates, learn more about their perspectives on issues important to our community, and get the information they need before heading to the polls on November 3.

The evening will also include helpful election information and Get Out the Vote resources to make it easier for residents to participate in this important local election. For more information and to register, visit this website.

Thursday, October 15

7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

St. Timothy's Episcopal Church

432 Van Buren St.

Herndon, VA 20170

Thru October 16: Help Support Herndon

Middle School Families

Herndon Middle School is seeking support for their first food distribution event of this school year, hosted through Family Engagement, and held in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. They are collecting donations to support their students, families, and community members experiencing food insecurity. Every donation, big or small, can make a meaningful difference.

Donations Needed:

• Rice
• Sugar
• Beans
• Maseca/corn flour for tortillas
• Other non-perishable foods
• Toiletries and personal-care items
• Gift cards
• Monetary donations

🥫 Food donation reminder: Please donate new, unopened, good-quality food items that are not expired. We want to make sure the food we provide to our families is safe and useful.

💳 Gift cards & monetary donations:

Gift cards or cash donations can be brought to the main office between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Please ask for the financial staff, and they will provide you with a receipt for your donation.

📦 Drop-off:

These donations can be brought to the school Monday thru Friday during school hours, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or to my office at 1437 Balls Hill Rd., McLean, VA 22101 Monday thru Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also send donations by mail from Amazon, Target, and Walmart to Herndon Middle School at 901 Locust St. Herndon, VA 20170.

October 16: Food Truck Friday

Looking for a fun, family-friendly evening out? Come enjoy Food Truck Friday at Immanuel Presbyterian Church! Free to attend, food available for purchase. They're bringing together delicious food, great company, and community spirit—all in support of SHARE McLean, a local nonprofit helping neighbors in need.

What to Expect:

• Drop boxes for donations to SHARE McLean – canned goods and non-perishable items!
• Opportunities to learn more about SHARE McLean’s work and how you can support
• Food Trucks from Masala Grill, The Corn Factory, and Travelin’ Tom’s
• Live music, an open playground, outdoor space to hang out – bring a lawn chair or blanket!
• A joyful atmosphere welcoming all ages!

For more information, visit this website.

Friday, October 16

5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Immanuel Presbyterian Church

1125 Savile Lane

McLean, VA 22101

October 16: Domestic and Sexual Violence

Annual Meeting

The Domestic and Sexual Violence Community Annual Meeting will celebrate the past 12 months of achievements and recommit to the work as one community, interwoven, until everyone is safe.

For questions, contact Stacy Ziebell at stacy.ziebell@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Friday, October 16

8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Government Center Forum and Board Auditorium

12000 Government Center Parkway

Fairfax, VA 22035

October 16-18: Farm Harvest Days and Carnival

Unlimited ride wristbands are on sale here!

October 17: Fairfax Circuit Court-Sully District Expungement Clinic

October 18: Clemyjontri Sensory-Friendly

Family Trick or Treat

Costumes are welcome but not required. Expect reduced noise and sensory support to help everyone enjoy the day comfortably. Tickets sell out fast! Buy yours here.

Sunday, October 18

11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Clemyjontri Park

6317 Georgetown Pike

McLean, VA 22101

October 18: Venture into Volunteering Fair

Looking for New Ways to Get Involved and Stay Connected?

Don’t miss the Venture into Volunteering and Beacon 50+ Expo! Discover a wide variety of meaningful volunteer opportunities and helpful local resources all in one place. Meet representatives from local nonprofits, public agencies, and businesses, and learn how you can get involved in your community.

Learn more about the Volunteer Fair: bit.ly/VOLFAIR

Questions? Email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5406.

For information about the Beacon 50+ Expo: bit.ly/BeaconExpo or call 301-949-9766.

Sunday, October 18

12:00 p.m. tp 4:00 p.m.

Springfield Town Center (Upper Level)

6500 Franconia-Springfield Pkwy

Springfield, VA 22150

October 19: Community Conversation with Superintendent Reid

Your voice matters, and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! Registration links will be shared soon by FCPS. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided.

Monday, October 19

6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Spring Hill Elementary School

8201 Lewinsville Rd.

McLean, VA 22102

October 20: AAUW McLean Area Branch Meeting

Shea Holman Kilian, J.D., is an Assistant Professor of Legal Studies at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government and Faculty Director of the Jurisprudence Learning Community (JPLC) where she also serves on the advisory board of the Schar School’s Gender and Policy Center. Professor Holman’s work involves workplace harassment prevention, gender equity, and civil rights. Outside the university, she serves as Counsel at the Purple Method, where she provides legal and policy guidance to organizations addressing sexual misconduct and workplace harassment. Her work includes developing workplace policies and training, advising organizations on legal and regulatory issues, and advocating for policy reforms. Previously, as Executive Director of the Purple Campaign, she led state and federal advocacy efforts concerning workplace harassment and helped develop legal and policy initiatives on protections for employees.

Professor Holman will discuss gender equity and workplace rights, with a particular focus on sexual harassment prevention, employment discrimination, civil rights, and creating safer and more equitable workplaces. She will provide an overview of her work examining how laws, organizational policies, and institutional practices can be used to prevent workplace harassment and discrimination and to strengthen protections for employees. Her discussion will center on workplace culture, employee protections, and organizational accountability.

Tuesday, October 20

7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

McLean Community Center

1234 Ingleside Ave.

McLean, VA 22101

October 21: 6816 & 6824 Elm Street Redevelopment Proposal Community Meeting

6824 Elm Dev LLC will host a community meeting regarding a proposed rezoning of the properties at 6816 and 6824 Elm Street in downtown McLean. The applicant proposes to replace the existing office buildings and surface parking with a seven-story mixed-use building containing residential, office, and ground-floor retail uses, structured parking, publicly accessible open space, and streetscape improvements.

This in-person meeting will be held in partnership with my office and the McLean Planning Committee on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at the McLean Community Center. The meeting will include a presentation on the application, an overview of the County review process by the Department of Planning and Development staff, and a question and answer period. For more information visit this website.

Wednesday, October 21

7:00 p.m.

McLean Community Center

1234 Ingleside Ave.

McLean, VA 22101

October 21: Great Falls Traffic, Crime, & Safety

Town Hall

October 22: Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Training

Join Safe Community Coalition and Chris Atwood for their free REVIVE Fall NARCAN Training Session

Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose - so that you're prepared to save a life.

Highschoolers can receive volunteer hours for participation.

REVIVE is Virginia's Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education Program for Lay Rescuers and is available to all: 

• there is no cost for anyone to attend or for the NARCAN 
• there are no pre-qualifications necessary 
• anyone over 16 is welcome to attend (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult). 
• everyone leaves with ready-to-use NARCAN upon completion of training 

You'll walk away knowing:

• how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose
• how to safely and effectively administer Naloxone (Narcan)
• what steps to take after administering Naloxone

All participants who complete the full training will receive FREE dose of Naloxone — so you’ll be prepared if you ever need it.

Space is limited, so RSVP as soon as you can! If you have any questions, please email sarah.t.tyler@gmail.com.

Thursday, October 22

7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

McLean Community Center

1234 Ingleside Ave

McLean, VA 22101

October 24: Dranesville Celebrates Trees

Join me, my staff, and the McLean Trees Foundation (MTF) to plant 15 native trees in the park. The trees are being planted with a generous donation from the Lewinsville Coalition. We will have a short ceremony during which a white oak will be planted in honor of Jane Edmondson, who was the Chief of Staff of former Supervisor John Foust as well as a founder and former President of the Lewinsville Coalition.

We will meet at 10 am on the grassy area to the left of the recreation center entrance. Please wear heavy shoes and long pants as well as work gloves if you have some. Don't forget to bring water to drink. MTF will have tools and gloves for everyone.

Sign up here! For more information contact Carol Wolter at woltercarol@gmail.com.

October 24: Herndon Homecoming Parade

Roll out the red carpet for the 2026 Herndon High School Homecoming Parade, proudly presented by the Herndon Parks & Recreation Department!

This year's theme, Hollywood Through the Years, celebrates the magic of the movies with creative floats, marching bands, school groups, community organizations, local businesses, and plenty of hometown spirit. Bring your family, find a spot along the parade route, and enjoy one of Herndon's favorite annual traditions. For more information, visit this webiste.

Saturday, October 24

9:30 a.m.

October 24: Drug Take Back Day

Drug Take Back Day is a free, convenient, confidential, and safe way to dispose of unused or expired medicine. Safe disposal: 

• Prevents drug misuse
• Prevents accidental poisoning
• Protects the environment

Saturday, October 24

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Find a location near you

October 28: Aging Life Care Manager

Roundtable Discussion

Join the Positive Aging Community for a live, interactive session where Aging Life Care Managers® come together to share their knowledge and best practices. 

Rebecca Montano, PhD,CRC,CMC,CCM,CDP Aging Focused, LLC 

Joanne McCarty RN, BSN, CMC Independent You

Register here.

Wednesday, October 28

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Online

October 28: 
When Families Disagree: Navigating Aging,

Conflict, & Difficult Decisions

Planning for aging isn’t just about care options—it’s about people. Old family wounds, sibling conflict, differing values, money, guilt, and unresolved relationships can turn even simple decisions into painful battles. Join Aging Life Care Managers® Steve Barlam and Bunni Dybnis for a practical discussion about resolving conflict, reducing family stress, and helping families make better decisions together. 

Steve Barlam, MSW, LCSW, CMC JFS Care 

Bunni Dybnis, MA, LMFT, CMC Aging Life Matters

Register here.

Wednesday, October 28

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Online

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dranesville

View as Webpage