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Dear Neighbor,

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it is the perfect time to reflect on what we are grateful for and explore ways to give back to the community during this holiday season. Whether it’s supporting local food drives, donating essential items, or volunteering your time, there are plenty of opportunities to make a meaningful difference. The Dranesville Dispatch will be on hiatus next week for the Thanksgiving holiday, so we thought we would share some opportunities to give back in this week’s newsletter.

Here are some great ways to give back in the Dranesville District this holiday season:

• Thanksgiving Food Drive through Nov. 27
• Gift Cards for the Holidays through Dec. 5

• Candyland Holiday Gift Donation

• Donate or volunteer

• Donate or volunteer

• Holiday Giving
• Thanksgiving Drive through Nov. 21

• Donate or volunteer

• Donate or volunteer
• Shop for holiday items at The Bargain Loft to benefit Herndon-Reston FISH

• Toys for Tots through Dec. 12

• Holiday Gift Card Drive
• Santa's Ride through Dec. 8

• Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program
• Holiday Care Package Drive
• Donate Foster Care Housewarming Baskets 

For even more ways to give back in Fairfax County, check out the Holiday Gift Giving Guide.

Additionally, in the spirit of giving back, you can donate gift cards (FreshWorld, Giant, Target, Safeway) or cash at my upcoming Holiday Open House on December 10 to support children in need at Hutchison Elementary School.

Hope to see you soon, maybe at this weekend's Herndon Turkey Trot!

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:

Great Falls Town Hall

Chesterbrook Friendsgiving

Herndon-Reston Rotary Club Veterans Day Breakfast

Herndon "No Sale Yard Sale"

Invasive Plant Removal with Fairfax Tree Rescuers PRISM and McLean Trees Foundation

SPARCle Awards Gala

Evermay Community Meeting

Cornerstones Faith Council and Advocacy Forum

West Falls Church Redevelopment Project Groundbreaking

Clearview Elementary School Visit

November is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor and support the dedicated individuals who provide care for their loved ones. This annual observance raises awareness about the challenges faced by caregivers and highlights the invaluable contributions they make to their families and communities. It's an opportunity to celebrate the commitment and compassion of those who work to ensure the well-being of family members and neighbors who may be older, ill, or disabled. The month also serves to advocate for policies and resources that can help ease the burden on caregivers, promoting a more supportive and understanding environment for these unsung heroes. To read more, visit the Family Caregiver Support webpage.

Scams are not new, but scammers are always finding new ways to take your money or identity (among other things).

AARP estimates there are about 80 scams going on in our community at any one time. Learn how to recognize a potential scam and educate yourself about some of the ones our local law enforcement have seen in our neighborhoods recently by visiting this webpage. 

Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is now accepting entries in the Fairfax Area High School Student Shark Tank Technology Challenge. Initial proposals are due December 19.

Open to all students in Fairfax County, the 2025-26 challenge invites youth to develop an innovative device or app that will have a positive impact in the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers or wounded warriors.

The winning students will be recognized with cash awards provided by sponsor IntegrityOne Partners. Winners will also be recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors at a spring 2026 reception. For more information about the challenge, please visit 2026 Shark Tank Technology Challenge.

Connect Fairfax County is a Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) program aimed at improving public safety by allowing participants to register their security cameras.

Property owners can register their security cameras for free with Connect Fairfax County here. Once registered, the FCPD will be aware of the camera’s location. In the event of a crime or suspicious activity in your area, FCPD may contact you to see if your camera contains relevant footage. The footage collected could be used to solve crimes, locate missing people, or be used for other law-enforcement investigations. Registering your camera does not grant FCPD access to your footage.

After registering your camera, property owners can choose to integrate their security system directly with FCPD. This allows FCPD to access live footage from your camera during emergencies, criminal investigations, or incidents of suspicious activity nearby. Visit this webpage to register and integrate your camera.

Herndon Library Native American Heritage Month Scavenger Hunt

Celebrate and learn about the diversity of Indigenous tribes in North America through the Herndon Fortnightly Library Moccasin Scavenger Hunt! Look for moccasins in the children's area and visit the information desk for a small prize. 

My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) is a national movement dedicated to empowering boys and young men of color to lead change and reach their full potential. In Fairfax County, the MBK Fairfax Youth Advisory Council turns that vision into action—giving youth real power, real voice and real impact. Fairfax County is a certified MBK community, committed to advancing equitable systems of opportunity.

If you are passionate about leadership, community, and driving change in Fairfax, apply to join the first cohort of MBK Fairfax Youth Advisors. Initial applications are due Friday, November 21, with additional applications reviewed on a rolling basis until the cohort is filled. Priority will be given to early applicants. For more information and to apply, please visit MBK Fairfax - Youth Advisory Council Application.

The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board has released Visualize 2050, the draft long-range transportation plan for metropolitan Washington. Comments help inform how the region can best meet roadway, transit, and mobility needs through operations, state of good repair, and system expansion.

Transportation projects in the plan will help the region’s residents and visitors enjoy safe, reliable travel options. Because the plan is regularly updated, public comments provide valuable feedback on what is missing from the plan and how to improve it the next time the plan is updated. Submit a comment before November 21 by visiting Get Involved - TPB Visualize 2050.

Join experts in psychology, dementia care, and aging to gain valuable insights and practical tips for managing physical and emotional challenges, coping with stress, and providing effective care. Participate in small-group breakout sessions covering topics like long-term care planning, elder law, hands-on caregiving skills, and self-care techniques. Bring your questions for an open Q&A session and explore resources offered by local professionals and government agencies. Connect with fellow caregivers and build a network of support. Register by visiting this webpage.

Saturday, November 22

8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Fairfax County Government Center

12000 Government Center Parkway

Fairfax

Calling all LEGO lovers! Join other kids who love building as much as you. The library provides the LEGO bricks - you provide the imagination! All materials must stay at the library, so bring a camera to capture your creations. Please leave your LEGO bricks at home.

This program is intended for children ages 4-18. Caregivers are required to stay with children 7 and younger. Children between 8-11 must have a caregiver in the library.

Space is limited to 20 participants at a first come, first served basis.

Note: registration does not guarantee your spot, it will ensure you receive updates and changes to the event and you will receive a reminder email before the event.

Saturday, November 22

2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Great Falls Library Meeting Room

9830 Georgetown Pike

Great Falls

Come learn about FIRST Robotics program and competition with McLean High School's Robotics Team, The Double Quarter Pounders. Audience members will have an opportunity to test drive a robot after the presentation. This program is for all ages.

Saturday, November 22

4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Dolley Madison Library Meeting Rooms 1 & 2

1244 Oak Ridge Avenue

McLean

Join for an enjoyable day filled with delicious Kimchi tasting, cooking demonstration and fun activities for all ages. RSVP for free: Kimchi Day Invitation.

Sunday, November 23

2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Herndon Community Center

8140 Ferndale Avenue

Herndon

The Fairfax County Park Authority presented the proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule for consideration at the October 22 meeting of the Park Authority Board, kicking off an essential community engagement process. The Park Authority Board considers fee adjustments on an annual basis, with the goal of balancing user impact with the financial stability of park programs and services. Pending adoption, the 2026 Fee Schedule will be effective starting January 1, 2026.

Park fees support the operation and maintenance of Fairfax County’s park system, including rec centers, golf courses, nature centers, camps, classes, water parks, amusements, park programs and amenities. These facilities and amenities provide enjoyment and memorable experiences for millions of park visitors each year.

Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the Park Authority Board is actively seeking public feedback on the 2026 Fee Schedule to ensure that they reflect the priorities of Fairfax County residents. The Park Authority invites community members to share their thoughts and comments by 5 p.m. on November 26.

Nov. 27-30: FCPS ACE Black Friday Sale

‘Tis the season for learning! Save 20% when you register for any of the hundreds of classes offered through Fairfax County Public Schools Adult and Community Education (FCPS ACE) during their Black Friday sale, running from 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 27 through Sunday, November 30 at 11:59 p.m.

• Register for as many classes as you want, all at 20% off!
• Give the Gift of Learning and save 20% when you purchase a class for family or friends!
• From advancing your career skills or fun and enriching classes, FCPS ACE offers a wide range of in-person and online courses to fit your needs.

Don’t miss this special opportunity to save on the full range of career and enrichment classes offered through FCPS Adult and Community Education. Go to www.fcpsace.org during the sale for all the details and to save!

As the holiday season approaches, consider the profound impact purchasing decisions have on the County’s vibrant community. This Small Business Saturday on November 29, shop local and support the heart and soul of our economy.

Small businesses make up over 90% of all businesses in Fairfax County, fueling local job creation and bringing unique character to local neighborhoods. When you choose local establishments, your dollars stay right here, directly supporting the entrepreneurs and families who call Fairfax home.

This Small Business Saturday, commit to shopping small. Seek out that charming boutique, that neighborhood cafe or that innovative local maker. Make a big impact with your small purchases, and find a local maker business near you at the Made in Fairfax directory.

Renowned McLean Interior Designer Barbara Hawthorn joins McLean Art Gallery Chair Jane Coonce for an interactive presentation addressing the effective incorporation of art into interior design. The art you like, why you like it, its appropriate placement and, finally, whether you have enough—Ms. Hawthorn will address these considerations and other audience questions while participants enjoy light refreshments. Reserve your free spot here.

Wednesday, September 3

6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

McLean Art Gallery

6224 Old Dominion Drive

McLean

The Tysons-Pimmit Quarterly Used Book/Media Sales offer 15,000+ books in categories that include Cooking, History, Biographies, STEM, Culture, Fiction/Mystery/Sci-Fi, Self-help, Business, Hobbies, Religion, Classics, and more. They also have books for children of all ages, as well as puzzles, games, DVDs, CDs, and audio books. Most books are priced between $0.50 and $4.00. Proceeds benefit the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library and related activities. Donations of books and media are appreciated; volunteers are welcome and needed.

Thursday, December 4

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

&

Friday, December 5

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

&

Saturday, December 6

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

&

Sunday, December 7

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Bag sale. $10 for a full grocery sack or half price if less.

Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library

7584 Leesburg Pike

Falls Church

Fairfax Connector invites the community to its third annual Winterfest. All three of Fairfax Connector’s specially designed holiday buses will be featured at Winterfest. Attendees can expect:

• Free hot cocoa, cookies and kettle corn
• Arts and crafts, face-painting, games, music, and a Letters to Santa station
• Food trucks on-site with items available for purchase
• Heated table areas will be provided; guests are encouraged to dress for the weather

This free event will open at 9 a.m. with a sensory-friendly hour for neurodivergent children and their families. The event will then be open to everyone from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For planning purposes, please register for a free entry ticket in advance. Visit Fairfax Connector's Winterfest for more information about the event.

Saturday, December 6

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

Springfield Community Business Center (CBC) Commuter Parking Garage

7039 Old Keene Mill Road

Springfield

Attend the McLean Revitalization Corporation's (MRC) 2025 Winterfest for a joyous celebration embracing the magic of winter and the spirit of the holidays. Children, parents, businesses, and civic organizations are welcome to come together for a day filled with fun, community, and festive cheer. 

McLean Winterfest 2025 will include:

• Pre-parade performance showcasing local dance troupes and other performing artists
• McLean Winterfest Parade featuring marching bands, floats, dance performances, and many community organizations
• Winterfest Block Party with Santa Claus, music, arts, food, and great fun

The MRC is also seeking volunteers to help make this year’s event a success! Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals from high school age and up. Those interested in volunteering can email mcleanwinterfestparade@gmail.com for more information.

Sunday, December 7

3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Langley Shopping Center

1398 Chain Bridge Road

McLean

Celebrate the beginning of the season with Celebrate Great Falls' Annual Christmas Tree Lighting! Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies as the sounds of the season fill the air with performances by local school musical groups. Visit the petting zoo and pony rides before Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by fire truck to light the tree at 5:00. Children are then welcome to share their holiday wishes with Santa. Volunteers are needed to make this event happen. Please consider sharing your time. For more information, please visit Celebration of Lights - Celebrate Great Falls Foundation.

Sunday, December 7

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Great Falls Village Field

754 Walker Road

Great Falls

Supervisor Bierman and his staff invite the community to an evening of food and drinks to celebrate the holiday season.

As part of the celebration, Supervisor Bierman is collecting donations to benefit children in need at Hutchison Elementary School. Preferred items include $10 gift cards (FreshWorld, Giant, Target, Safeway), or cash donations to be exchanged for gift cards. Donations can be brought to the Open House or delivered during regular business hours to the Dranesville District Office at 1437 Balls Hill Rd, McLean.

Wednesday, December 10

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

1437 Balls Hill Road

McLean

VDOT: 495 NEXT Updates

NEW 495 EXPRESS LANES EXTENSION REMAINS ON SCHEDULE TO OPEN SATURDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 22

The 495 Express Lanes Extension (the Extension) remains on schedule to open this Saturday, November 22, weather permitting. The two-and-a-half-mile extension of new 495 Express Lanes spanning from near the Dulles Corridor Interchange to just before the American Legion Bridge and new connecting ramps are scheduled to be fully open and operational by mid-morning Saturday.

The Extension’s entry and exit points will open on a rolling basis, and are projected to all be open by 6 a.m. on Saturday. The following entry and exit points will connect drivers with the 495 Express Lanes Extension:

• Entry from southbound I-495 general purpose-lanes (after crossing American Legion Bridge into Virginia)
• Exit to northbound I-495 general purpose-lanes (before crossing American Legion Bridge into Maryland)
• Entry to southbound 495 Express Lanes from northbound George Washington Memorial Parkway
• Exit from northbound 495 Express Lanes to southbound George Washington Memorial Parkway
• Entry from eastbound and westbound Dulles Toll Road to northbound 495 Express Lanes

Drivers will know an entry to the Extension is open when wayfinding signs are visible, toll pricing is active, and barriers are removed. Drivers should not attempt to access an entry that still appears closed or is in the process of opening.

Mobile and stationary closures on the I-495 general-purpose and express lanes and shoulders, as well as ramp closures and detours, will occur within the 495 NEXT project corridor during implementation of the Extension opening. For more information, please visit this webpage.

After opening, drivers should use caution when traveling on the new express lanes extension and within the surrounding area, as traffic becomes acclimated to the new lanes and ramps. In addition to the expected ramp-up period associated with the opening of new express lanes or any major roadway, travelers should anticipate changing traffic patterns over the coming months due to holiday travel and approaching potential winter weather. During this transition period, VDOT and Transurban will coordinate closely to monitor and manage the travel corridor to ensure any on-road incidents or issues are addressed quickly.

After opening the new 495 Express Lanes northern extension, 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, which will benefit surrounding communities and regional travelers. 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 news and updates on 495 NEXT lane closures and project updates, 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.

Travelers should stay informed and prepared by:

• Checking VA 511 by using 511virginia.org or via the mobile 511Virginia app
• Following VDOT on social media at:
• X (formerly Twitter): @VaDOTNOVA and @VaDOT
• Facebook: VDOT NOVA District
• Nextdoor: Virginia Department of Transportation
• Signing up for construction updates and alerts
• Calling the Construction Information Lane at 703-592-6430

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.

Learn More & Stay Connected:

• To opt in to receive email updates about traffic, meeting notices and information about major milestones, please click here.
• To contact the project team, please e-mail the National Park Service.
• View recordings of informational public meetings on the public meeting webpage.

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dranesville

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