ANNANDALE News, Events & Networking



Golf Fairfax Spring Pass Sale: Save Big and Win!
Save Big and Win!

Prepare for the golf season with unbeatable discounts on rounds at all seven Golf Fairfax courses and a chance to win a free foursome round of golf. From March 21 to April 5, golfers can save on weekend and weekday passes at Burke Lake, Greendale, Jefferson, Laurel Hill (senior rounds only), Oakmont, Pinecrest and Twin Lakes golf courses.

Spring pass deals include:

  • Get 10% off 5 rounds, 20% off 10 rounds and 25% off 15 rounds. Pass savings are based on regular greens fees.
  • Senior golfers, save up to 35% off weekday rounds and receive the 15th round for free with the purchase of 14 rounds.
  • Passes are available for 9 or 18 holes, for both weekend or weekday rounds.
  • Golf passes are valid at the course where it was purchased for two years after the date of purchase.

New this year, each course will be selecting one lucky winner to receive a free foursome round of golf at the winner’s course. 

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FOOD DONATIONS NEEDED FOR THE ANNANDALE PANTRY

Stuff the Bus on Saturday, March 16 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the the Giant at 7137 Columbia Pike in Annandale across the street from Giant Food.. Please consider picking up a few extra items for the food pantry and dropping them off at the bus parked outside the Giant. 

Current Pantry Needs
Low sodium and low sugar items and the following items (canned or in boxes) continue to be in demand and also PAPER BAGS:

What is Needed
Canned Beans including Kidney, Pinto, Baked, Garbanzo (chickpeas), Dry Red Beans
Canned Chicken, Canned Fruit and Vegetables, Canned Tuna, Canned Tomatoes
Cooking Oil, Napkins, Laundry Soap, Dish Soap, Bars of Soap, Paper Towels, Shampoo
Juice, Jelly/Jam, Flour, Mustard, Ketchup, Mayonnaise, Pancake Syrup and Mix, Masa
Sugar, Tea, Rice, Peanut Butter, Cereal, Instant Coffee
Canned Meals (Chef Boyardee), Chunky Soups, Spaghetti Sauce and Pasta, Mac & Cheese
Feminine Napkins, All sizes of Diapers

Gardens – ACCA can also distribute fresh produce to clients from your home gardens.  Please deliver to the pantry on Tuesday – Wednesday between 1:30 and 4 p.m. (so the produce is delivered to clients before the weekend).


George Mason Regional Library Programs

We're 85!
It’s hard to imagine that the 1939 Board of Supervisors could envision the success of their new library system when they budgeted a whopping $250 to support the library, but here we are, stronger than ever!


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Teacher of the Year 2023-2024 FCPS Region 6 
Ms. Shea Hestmark from Columbia Elementary School, Annandale

Columbia Elementary School 2nd Grade Teacher, Ms. Shea Hestmark (pictured below, third from the left) has been recognized as the 2023-2024 FCPS Region 6 teacher of the year!

As a result of this recognition, Ms. Hestmark is now a finalist for the FCPS Teacher of the Year award that will be announced later this spring.

Ms. Hestmark as she represents the wonderful Columbia community, the Annandale pyramid of schools, and all of Region 6 at the FCPS Honors awards ceremony.

(Dr. Boyd, Mr. McDaniel, Dr. Anderson, Ms. Rodriguez, and Ms. Lavery and Columbia Elementary School Principal, Mike Astudillo also pictured.)


The Police Beat

Keeping Your Kids SafeDetectives Behind the Internet

Detectives from the Major Crimes Bureau’s Child Exploitation Unit (CEXU) are the men and women who track down online perpetrators seeking to cause harm to minors. While a significant portion of their police work occurs through virtual channels, their unwavering dedication to safeguarding our most vulnerable, young residents should be acknowledged on a larger scale.

What do CEXU detectives do?
Detectives from the Major Crimes Bureau’s Child Exploitation Unit (CEXU) are the men and women who track down online perpetrators seeking to cause harm to minors. While a significant portion of their police work occurs through virtual channels, their unwavering dedication to safeguarding our most vulnerable, young residents should be acknowledged on a larger scale.

Detectives from our Child Exploitation Unit, comprised of highly skilled and specialized investigators, work tirelessly to identify and combat online threats to children. Part of these efforts include proactively investigating online predators. Throughout the year, proactive operations are conducted by our detectives targeting individuals who are seeking to solicit illegal acts with juveniles. Some investigations lead to “travelers.” Travelers are individuals who engage in sexually-related conversations with individuals they believe to be juveniles online. They come to Fairfax County with the intent of committing a sex act with the minor, only to discover a CEXU detective waiting for them.

Our CEXU detectives work closely with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which generates CyberTips. According to NCMEC, in 2022, over 31.9 million CyberTips were submitted to NCMEC regarding suspected Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) nationwide. Online service providers and members of the public can submit tips to the NCMEC..

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Old School Methods Still Have Their Uses
Why You Should Have a Paper Map for Emergencies 

During an emergency situation like a natural disaster or power outage, your phone or GPS may not work. Cell towers and internet access can go down, leaving you without digital maps or navigation. That’s why it’s wise to keep a paper map on hand for backup during emergencies.

Here are some key reasons why a paper map is an essential part of emergency preparedness.

Reliable Backup Navigation
If the power goes out or cell towers are down, most smartphones and GPS units will be rendered useless. But a paper map does not depend on electricity or internet connectivity. Unfolding a paper map provides you with a trusty backup way to navigate and find alternate routes if needed.  Knowing how to read a map is an invaluable skill when technology fails.READ MORE


The Police Beat
Thwarting Auto Thefts
 


At the forefront of tackling auto theft crimes across Fairfax County is FCPD’s Auto Crimes Enforcement (ACE) Unit, specializing in investigating and thwarting auto theft organizations, street level auto thefts, and other vehicle-related crimes.

Who is the “ACE” Unit?

Staffed by two supervisors and six detectives, the ACE Unit is dedicated to addressing criminal activities linked to vehicles. The unit's primarily focuses on incidents involving stolen cars, as these often correlate with serious crimes. FCPD proactively established the ACE Unit to bolster efforts against this criminal element, aiming to enhance community safety and curb the rising instances of vehicle-related offenses. Since its inception in April 2022, the ACE Unit has been instrumental in investigating, preventing, and combatting various aspects of criminality associated with automobiles, contributing significantly to the overall proactive, and data-informed strategy of FCPD.

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The Clarke House
Family Homestead & 400 Acre Dairy Farm,
Now an Event Venue

The Clark House was built in 1902 by Clark House on Columbia PikeWilliam Lee Clark and served as

the family homestead, of this 400 acre dairy farm, for over 50 years. The builder, Henry Manchester, was a long time local resident. His remuneration came in the form of dinner plus two dollars a day. One of the first telephones in the area was installed here in 1918 and electricity was added around 1935. The family consisted of William, his wife Minnie Howdershell Clark and their children, Wilbur, Lillian and Madeline.

In 1953, Wilbur Burnley Clark (son of William) retired from farming and sold all his land except the house and 6.1 acres. Here he established W.B. Clark and Sons Inc. which sold top soil, sawdust, gravel, wood mulch, fertilizer, firewood, and railroad ties. His sons Larry and Wayne ran the business in an office next to the kitchen and employed over 20 people.

Progress was not to favor the Clark family.  In 1972 Fairfax County went in search of a building site for the Mason District Government Center and the Clark property became a prime contender. Unfortunately, Wilbur Clark had no desire to sell. By this time four Clark generations had lived on the homestead, built decades of memories and a thriving business. The issue was resolved when another site was deemed more appropriate, but that was not the end of Wilbur’s problems. The Fairfax County Park Authority was in need of 8.1 acres in Mason District to meet the 8.5 acres of community parkland for every 1,000 people goal. A long fight ensued, and the Clarks were ultimately forced to sell the house and remaining land to the Park Authority in 1986. The house was moved down Columbia Pike in 1990 (originally located at 6337 Columbia Pike); townhouses built around it; and, a saddened Mr. Clark died two years later at age 92.

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Insurance Insights
Why are Home Insurance Rates Rising in Virginia?
 


Owning a home is a part of the American dream. However, over recent years, maintenance costs, taxes, and the overall risks to owning a home have all been increasing. Insurance is no different, and with increased risks and aging homes, the insurance companies have been increasing the premiums to help mitigate losses. 

One major factor is the increasing cost of labor and materials to build homes. In Northern Virginia, we have some of the highest labor and material costs in the country. This means that insurance companies need to charge higher premiums to cover the increased cost of repairs or replacements.

The real estate market has been booming in recent years causing home values to skyrocket. Higher home values mean that insurers may need to pay out more in the event of a total loss, leading to higher premiums for homeowners.

Many homes in Alexandria, Annandale, Mclean, and D.C. are aging, and as they get older, they become more prone to issues like plumbing leaks, electrical problems, and roof damage. Insurance companies take the age and condition of a home into account when determining premiums, and older homes often result in higher insurance costs.

One of the primary drivers of rising homeowners’ insurance premiums is the increase in extreme weather events. Climate change has led to more frequent and severe hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and storms. Insurers are now faced with higher payouts for property damage and losses, which in turn leads to increased premiums for homeowners.
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What a Difference a Century Makes:  1924
US Population: 114,109,000 

President Coolidge with his Mother, Mrs. Jones, in the White House Garden 


President: Calvin Coolidge
Vice President:  Charles G. Dawes
Virginia Governor:  Elbert Lee Trinkle
Chief Justice Supreme Court:  William Howard Taft
Speaker of the House:  Frederick H. Gillett (R-Massachusetts) 
Senate Majority Leader:  Charles Curtis (R-Kansas)
VA Senators: Claude A. Swanson & Carter Glass
BORN:  Marlon Brando, Tom Landry, Gloria Vanderbilt, James Baldwin, George H.W. Bush, Robert Mugabe, Henry Mancini
DIED: Woodrow Wilson,  Henry Bacon, Isabella Stewart Gardner, Louis Sullivan

HISTORICAL EVENTS

  • Mahatma Gandhi is released from jail early because of ill health. He served less than two years of a six year sentence. Gandhi decides to write about improvements for India instead of taking part in political action. 

  • In Munich, the trial against Hitler for treason in the Beer Hall Putsch begins. He is found guilty, sentenced to 5 years of hard labor but only serves 9 months. During his imprisonment, he writes Mein Kampf (My Struggle). It was part political treatise and part autobiography. The book lays out Hitler’s his ever increasing antisemitic and militaristic views. 

  • An immigration law is signed by Pres. Calvin Coolidge restricting immigration to the U.S. Part of the law is the Asian Exclusion Act which banned the entry of Asians to the US from a variety of countries.  

  • The Indian Citizenship Act was signed into law by President Calvin Coolidge declaring all Native Americans to be U.S. citizens. 

  • J. Edgar Hoover is appointed head of the FBI. 

  • The Statue of Liberty is declared a National Monument

  • Nellie Tayloe Ross is elected as the first U.S. female governor (Wyoming) much to the surprise of her male colleagues.

  • Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two wealthy students from the University of Chicago, kidnapped and killed 14 year old Bobby Franks to demonstrate their supposed intellectual superiority by committing a “perfect crime” without consequences. They were each sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and 99 years for kidnapping.  The trial of Leopold and Loeb at Chicago's Cook County Criminal Court became a media spectacle and the third (after those of Harry Thaw and Sacco and Vanzetti) to be labeled "the trial of the century." The Leopold and Loeb families hired the renowned criminal defense attorney Clarence Darrow to lead the defense team. Darrow took the case because he was a staunch opponent of capital punishment. Both Leopold and Loeb were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder, and an additional 99 years for the kidnapping.  They were sent to Northern Illinois Penitentiary near Joliet. In January 1936, Loeb was razor-slashed and killed by a fellow inmate, toward whom Loeb allegedly had made sadistic homosexual advances.
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    Blue Moon Estate Sales

Helping Families. Selling Treasures. Having Fun.

Blue Moon Estate Sales began over 10 years ago as one family's mission to help others sell belongings during life transitions. As the need for home and business liquidation is never-ending, Blue Moon Estate Sales franchise locations have continued to open around the nation to service additional communities. Since opening last year, our team at Blue Moon Estate Sales of NE Fairfax County has proudly offered professional, modern estate sale services in our local area. Blue Moon prides itself on their mission, values, experience and results.

Items accumulated over the years can become overwhelming when families or individuals are ready to make a change.   Blue Moon streamlines possessions as people adjust to life as empty nesters, move to a new destination, relocate for a job or family responsibilities, sell a rental property, close a business or office, relocate for care, or sell an estate after the loss of a loved one.

No matter the stage of life that sellers are in, estate sales serve as a turnkey solution to avoid the time-consuming, costly, and stressful process of dealing with personal property. Their professionally-trained estate liquidators speed up and simplify downsizing. Unlike garage sales, estate sales sell as much as possible, typically with the goal of clearing the entire contents of a residential or commercial space. Estate sales encourage sustainability through resale; allowing belongings to serve a new purpose.

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VIEW ON NATURE
One with Nature                                                                                              

"The Coronation of Powhatan," by the American artist John Cadsby Chapman, oil on canvas. Courtesy of the Greenville Museum of Art, Greenville, South Carolina.  (1)

 They thrived here for at least 12,000 years.  Their lifestyle centered around Nature – planting, fishing, hunting, gathering -- in recurrent seasonal rhythm. 

They flourished in a land of plenty between the coastal James and Potomac Rivers.  Maize (corn) introduced ~200 AD comprised 50% of their diet by 1100 AD.  Beans and squash were staples by the 14th century.  Their ingenious symbiotic planting of corn, beans and squash created a bountiful Garden of Eden -- the beans grew up the cornstalks for sunlight while fertilizing the soil with nitrogen, and the fast-growing squash out competed all weeds.   

Life was very good for the indigenous Algonquin-speaking people with their close relationships with Nature.  Their corn-centric diet was supplemented with seasonal fishing and hunting.  Oysters grew to one foot diameter, clams and mussels were aplenty, and fish were easily trapped, speared, and even lassoed (giant sturgeons up to 800 pounds!).

Fresh meat, primarily from deer, turkey, bear and rabbit, boosted with raccoon, opossum, squirrel and waterfowl, supplemented their protein intake.  Deer also provided the all-important tanned hides, with every tribal member owning a winter deerskin robe and leggings.

Their exceptional spacious, energy efficient lodgings known as yehakins were made of flexible saplings lashed together into tall arches covered with bark or woven marsh reeds.  The replica in Jamestown is 40 by 20 by 15 feet high with one entry / exit and two campfire ceiling vents.  The inhabitants slept, cooked and stored their foods and belongings on triple bunk beds.  Even in freezing weather, they comfortably went shirtless.   

In 1607, Wahunsunacock, or more popularly Chief Powhatan, was the paramount chief of the over 30 tribes comprising the master Powhatan tribe of ~20,000 members.  One of his many daughters was the acclaimed Pocahontas.  

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MEET THE ARTISAN:  Shelia Lynch
Work on Display and for Sale at the Artisans United Gallery

In a world where specialization often reigns supreme, there are individuals who defy conventional boundaries and embrace a multitude of talents. Meet Sheila Lynch, a polymath artist whose diverse range of skills and expertise spans across various fields of science, humanities, and the arts.

With a passion for exploration and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Lynch has mastered an astonishing array of disciplines. Playing and teaching 11 musical instruments showcases a remarkable musical talent that knows no boundaries. From delicate strokes of a paintbrush to the intricate art of glass fusing and mosaic creation, Lynch’s artistic prowess knows no limits

But it doesn’t stop there. Sheila Lynch is also a skilled silver-smith, crafting exquisite jewelry pieces that reflect her unique artistic vision. Sculpture becomes a medium for her to breathe life into her imagination, while calligraphy allows her to express her creativity through the written word.

The term “polymath artist” is not one to be taken lightly. It harkens back to the days of Leonardo DaVinci, the true Renaissance genius who excelled in painting, architecture, invention and scientific exploration. In a similar vein, Sheila Lynch embodies the spirit of a modern day polymath artist. 

Lynch explained her creative journeys:
“An idea will pop into my head randomly at any given time. I will see an actual picture in my mind’s eye. I then draw the picture, using diagrams and explanations of how it will work. I analyze the inner workings of the piece to visualize how I want to create what I see. I often draw 10 versions of the piece in order to find the one I am most excited about creating. At this time, I start thinking about what materials I want to use to accomplish my vision. Then, I start to draw, in reverse, the steps I will need to take to complete the project. I work out any foreseen problems I may have along the way and remedy them before I begin. I plan every step of the way. Gathering up my materials, I begin the journey to creating my vision.”

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The Golden Years
WINTER WEATHER SAFETY TIPS FOR SENIORS
 

Winter can be a wonderful time of the year, but it can also be especially dangerous for older adults. Protect yourself and understand how the cold affects the Seniors in your life by following these winter weather safety tips.

Stay Hydrated – Dehydration is not just a concern during the summer months. Older adults are already at risk because they naturally have less water in their bodies. They may also be taking medications, such as blood pressure that flush the water from the body and cause additional risks.

Protect Your Skin – Over time, skin becomes thinner, drier and more fragile. Winter weather can take a toll on aging skin, causing cracking and bleeding. Older adults need to use moisturizing cream regularly, which is especially effective after bathing when the skin is most absorbent.

Bundle Up – As we age, our bodies become less effective at regulating heat which puts Seniors at an increased risk of developing hypothermia, a dangerous condition that can occur when the body’s core temperature dips too low. When outdoors, older adults should dress in multiple layers of clothes

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Annandale's American Legion

Would you like to be a part of a winning organization who helps the community and has fun doing it? Are you a veteran or someone in your family a veteran? Common myth is that if you are not a veteran, you cannot join. Not true, you can join under family members. American Legion Post 1976 is always looking for new members. If anyone in your family is a veteran, you may qualify. Meeting new people in our club is a great part of the experience. We have a monthly breakfast that is the best in town. Other events include trivia, spaghetti dinners, lunches on Tuesday and Wednesday, steak dinners, karaoke and many more. We participate in the Annandale parade and toys for tots. We have a pool table, 6 televisions and low prices. Lockers are also available. Email me at rpcomm6759@aol.com to see if you qualify. If you prefer, stop by the post at American Legion Post 1976, 4206 Daniels Avenue, Annandale, VA 22003. 703-941-9608 or 703-941-9460.


 

The ENDEAVOR News Magazine is the Chamber's quarterly online publication and the must read magazine in Annandale.  Acquaint yourself with local businesses, community history, revitalization efforts, and issues that concern Annandale: The Crossroads of Northern Virginia TM.


The Garden Path 
The Ten Best Winter Trees

Winterberry, Creative Commons Share Alike 3.0Your winter landscape doesn’t need to look bleak. Instead, you can incorporate trees and shrubs with attractive bark, evergreens, and other woody contrast against the winter landscape.

Your patio contractors probably built your patio so you can look at it from inside your home. If you plant trees and shrubs with berries near your patio, you’ll also have many birds visiting your backyard, which you can watch from your warm home.

Planting Design Considerations + 10 Trees & Shrubs for Winter Interest

If you want to add more winter color and attract birds to your backyard, then you want to add evergreens and woody plants with showy bark, berries, and evergreen leaves.

But first, you must consider what will grow in Annandale, VA. We’re in zone 7, so there are many trees and shrubs to consider for winter interest. Here are four characteristics to keep in mind when adding trees and shrubs to your backyard landscape:

  • Attracts birds with the plant’s berries
  • Look for woody plants that have sturdy branches to hold snow and ice
  • Plant trees and shrubs with interesting bark
  • Plant shrubs and trees with evergreen foliage.

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The Police Beat:  
10 Essential Tips for Staying Alert When Using Ride-Share Services 


Ride-sharing services have revolutionized transportation by providing convenient and affordable ways to get around. While ride-shares offer an accessible service for our Fairfax County residents to travel, Fairfax County Police Department reminds community members of ways to prioritize your safety when using these services.

Every year, major rideshare companies document the number of sexual assault incidents reported to their company. Although Fairfax County does not have as many reported incidents as other major metropolitan areas, since the beginning of 2023 FCPD has had three separate ride-share incidents reported in our communities.

By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of being victimized and enjoy a safe and secure ride. Remember to always trust your instincts, stay alert, and report any concerns or inappropriate behaviors as soon as possible.

Tips on Ride-Share Safety
Verify the driver and car: Before getting into the vehicle, ensure that the driver’s name, photo, and license plate match the details provided on the app. Do not hesitate to cancel the ride if something seems off or unfamiliar.
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UnCovered:   Cookie Cutters and Kitchen Tools

Antique Baking Tools from a private collection.  Copywrite, not available for reproduction. The tradition of baking holiday cookies to share with friends and family dates to the medieval era. Historically, these cookies would be made with fragrant spices such as black pepper, ginger and cinnamon, making them taste similar to modern day gingerbread. The first known recipe for gingerbread came from Greece in 2400 BC.

Gingerbread is claimed to have been brought to Europe in 992 AD by the Armenian monk Gregory of Nicopolis (also called Gregory Makar and Grégoire de Nicopolis). He left Nicopolis(in modern-day western Greece) to live in Bondaroy (north-central France), near the town of Pithiviers. He stayed there for seven years until he died in 999 and taught gingerbread baking to French Christians (1)  It may have been brought to Western Europe from the eastern Mediterranean in the 11th century.  (2)

The creation of gingerbread men cookies is attributed to Queen Elizabeth I. It is said that she presented visiting foreign officials with gingerbread in their likeness. Gingerbread was also a favored treat at medieval European festivals and fairs, and there were even dedicated gingerbread fairs.

Specialty forms of gingerbread can be found in Belgium, France, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Russia, and Panama.  Some substitute honey for molasses, others add a sweet sauce over the top.

Other forms of gingerbread, such as loaves and houses, have historical ties as well. It is believed that gingerbread houses were popularized by the witch’s cottage from the fairytale Hansel and Gretel. In America, George Washington’s mother, Mary Ball Washington, was known for her gingerbread loaf recipe, which was her hospitality staple. Her recipe called for spices such as ginger, cinnamon, mace and nutmeg, with a surprise hint of citrus from some orange zest.

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UnCovered
Tracing the Origins of Silhouettes 

Before photography, if someone wanted to have their portrait made quickly and inexpensively, they might visit a silhouette artist. Cutting portraits became popular in the mid-18th century, and skilled artists using minimal materials could cut an accurate portrait in a matter of minutes.  They represented a cheap but effective alternative to the portrait miniature, and skilled specialist artists could cut a high-quality bust portrait, by far the most common style, in a matter of minutes, working purely by eye. (1)

The term silhouette comes from Étienne de Silhouette, a French Private Family Archive copywrite, not for reproduction.minister who enacted severe economic demands on the French people during the Seven Years’ War to curb the deficit and strengthen the nation’s finances. His name became synonymous with anything viewed as cheap and austere, and people who could not afford more expensive painted portraiture turned to the cheap paper cutouts that we now know as silhouettes. Prior to this, silhouettes were referred to as profiles or shades. The invention of the camera heralded the end of the popularity of these portraits.

This unidentified profile of a man in a gilded frame was purchased by the Park Authority in 1989 from an antique store. It is a hollow-cut silhouette, meaning the positive image was traced and cut away from a light-colored paper, leaving the negative outline behind.

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Route 236/Little River Turnpike Plan HORRIFIC for the Residents and Merchants of Annandale

The proposed plan to expand Little River Turnpike has one and only one goal, to accommodate more and more cross county commuter traffic and move it through the LIttle River corridor as quickly and as unencumbered as possible.  There is NO consideration shown for the residents and businesses of Annandale.  This proposal will greatly hinder the people of Annandale while killing off easy access to Annandale merchants.

Just imagine driving from Fairfax to Annandale on your way home.  You wish to take a left on Hummer Road  or to access roadways to Falls Church?  Under this new plan, you will be driving many more minutes while all but circumnavigating the western banks of Annandale traveling through one traffic circle to another.  THIS PROPOSAL IS NUTS and we can only hope that the leadership in Mason District will stand up and fight for the rights of our citizens.

Many NO left turns off of Little River will be blocked causing more inconvenience and time burden to our residents.  Other detour type routes and traffic circles are proposed taking you further from your destination every single day.  Yet, the commuter traffic will race through our community unfettered while eliminating the much needed access roads that provide easy entrance and inter-parcel access to the merchants on which you depend.

These access roads also provide a calmer direct route for the local residents keeping them off Little River.  Without them, we will be forced to join what will become a Freeway.  Designers of this plan intentionally market a massive misdirect by calling the expanded Little River a Boulevard.  Sounds nice but this is not Paris.  Have no doubt, this will be a Freeway and one that is far harder for pedestrians to cross no matter how many cross walks are striped. 

The breadth of Little River does not allow anyone to cross all lanes in one go.  Waiting on the median for another round of changing lights is necessary and dangerous.  Pedestrian accessibility in Annandale is all but non existent right now.  The most dangerous spots have always been when attempting to cross both Columbia Pike and Little River.  Recently we have also experienced such distracted and high volume driving that fatalities have occurred on sidewalks.  The next victim, and there will be more, could be you!  This new road plan does not improve pedestrian accessibility although there are lofty claims that it is one of the goals.  If in fact that is more than lip service, that goal deserves a grade of (F) Failure. 

As to Roundabouts the research shows serious concerns about safety, so much so that in England where Roundabouts have existed in plenty for more than 100 years, they are now disappearing because of serious safety concerns. 

They are not as safe as traditional crossings for either pedestrians or bicyclists and they are not meant for higher speed roadways since entry speeds on each leg of the intersection should not exceed 15-18 mph.  Roundabouts are also not designed for multilane road intersections which all of the roadways displayed for inclusion in this proposal are multilane.  Raises even more questions about creating safe road conditions.

Ten years ago when a less dramatic version of this plan was first proposed, a compromise was reached to create an inner loop for the residents of Annandale so we would be able to avoid much of the commuter traffic and easily access our neighborhoods and merchants.  That Inner-Annandale Loop has been abandoned.  Do not be deceived, there is NOTHING in this plan that will benefit the people of Annandale.

Annandale Road to Backlick

We will forever be going around in circles.  Have you seen the shockingly ugly Roundabout on Ravensworth Road that VDOT installed?  If they can not install even one attractive “roundabout” what horror awaits with these circles littering every roadway?

DOT Extends Route 236/Little River Turnpike STARS Study Comment Period
By public request, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is extending the comment period for the Route 236/Little River Turnpike STARS Study from May 31 through Sunday, June 12, 2022. This STARS (Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions) Study is assessing potential cost-effective measures to improve safety and reduce congestion during morning and evening peak periods for approximately four miles of Route 236/Little River Turnpike, between I-495 in Annandale and I-395 in Alexandria.  For more information, and to access the survey in English, Korean, and Spanish, visit www.virginiadot.org/projects/northernvirginia/route236stars.asp  Make certain to add a note in the comment area that neither proposal is acceptable!

For more photos of other intersections, go to the VDOT Northern Virginia page or the Route 236 STARS Study.


Shop Locally and Support Annandale Merchants

Artisans United Gallery of Gifts Artisans United Gallery of Gifts, Annandale, VA
When you shop at the gallery, you will find a wide variety of reasonably priced hand-crafted items by local artisans. Socially distanced shopping at the Gallery is easy. Or, if you can’t visit in person, call to arrange for a virtual tour and shopping. Staff can take payments over the phone and provide curbside pickup. Mailing or delivery to your home may be available.

Visit us at the Packard Center (Annandale Community Park), 4022 Hummer Road, Annandale, VA 22003. We are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  

READ MORE ABOUT ARTISANS UNITED Call us at 703-941-0202 to check on current hours. You may also arrange a Sunday, Monday, or evening visit.
(703)941-0202    .    augallery1@gmail.com   .   www.augallery.org
Gifts for All Occasions

The Craft Gallery of Artisans United
Artisan Creations from woodworking to ceramics, jewelry to knitware & weaving and so much more are available to purchase at very reasonable prices. 

4022 Hummer Road, Annandale 22003   (in the Annandale Community Park)
703.941.0202   .   www.augallery.org/

Green Spring Gardens  -  Tea Gifts, Nature & Garden Gifts
Off Braddock Rd. behind Pinecrest Shopping Center-Braddock and Little River
6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312

(703) 642-5173
   .  
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring

Collector's World
Comics, Collector's Cards and Sports Memorabilia

7006 Columbia Pike,  Annandale, VA 22003
(In the Annandale Shopping Center at Columbia Pike & Gallows Road)

703-256-8408   .   collectorsworldinfo@gmail.com
Call for current hours of operation. 

Pinecrest Golf Coursen - Golf Gifts, Clothing, and Gift Cards
Corner of Braddock and Little River
6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
(703) 941-1061   .   www.fairfaxcounty.gov/golf/pinecrest


 

Chamber Membership is an Effective Business Strategy

According to a recent study conducted by the Shapiro Group: 

“When consumers know a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 49% more likely to think favorably of that business, and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.” 
  For more information on benefits when joining the Annandale Chamber of Commerce please see......

Membership Information.

More News and Local Issues

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LAMBROS GOLDSMITH AND FINE JEWELRY

Lambros Fine Jewelry in Annandale, VASparkling, even inspiring are the jewelry designs exhibited in abundance at this charming retailer. Lambros and Jayne Magiafas, goldsmith and geologist, are a team made in Jewelers Heaven. Lambros began his goldsmith apprenticeship at the age of 12 in his native Greece while Jayne started her career in the US at the age of 16.

Lambros Goldsmiths is a family owned and operated, full service Fine Jewelry retailer.  

Founded in 1987, Lambros Goldsmiths has been serving the Fine Jewelry needs of people from around the country. Nestled in our friendly town of Annandale, Lambros Goldsmiths offers uniquely handcrafted Fine Jewelry at competitive prices. READ MORE

 

WISA Solutions

        Is Your Home in Need of a Makeover?   WISA Solutions, Home Improvement Inside and Out

                          Exterior Improvements include Roofing & Siding     

The Chamber would like to introduce Waris Mojaddidi and WISA Solutions, his family run business to the Annandale Community.  Waris was born and raised in Springfield attending West Springfield High School.  He went onto Coastal Carolina University playing Division 1 Soccer and graduating with a Business Management Degree in 2010.  A year later he and his father drew together a business plan and opened WISA Solutions.

WISA is a full service home improvement company that specializes in mid to major interior design build renovations (kitchens, bathrooms, basements, additions) along with roof, siding and gutter replacement.  They can make your home renovations easier by hiring one contractor to take care of your many needs.

Need more space?  Have your basement renovated into a home theatre, home office, playroom, and study space.

Need a new roof?   WISA can provide an accurate view of your roof with drone technology and then show you a range of roofing materials including the longest wearing materials on the market today.

Want to reduce your home insurance premiums?  Replacing your roof, especially before the harsh winds and heavy winter storms, may be the single best home investment you can make. 

READ MORE


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Kenwood Summer Day Camp






Bowlero, Annandale, VA

Kitchen and Bath Solutions, Annandale, VA

Kinneman Insurance

Demaine

Patient First Annandale

Hapmudo Martial Arts

Home Instead Senior Care

Lambros Fine Jewelry, Annandale, VA

Annandale Shopping Center

 Blue Moon Estate Sales
Blue Moon Estate Sales



Youth Sports & Summer Camps
in Annandale
are best represented by:

Annandale Boys & Girls Club

Lee's Hapmudo Martial Arts Studio

Kenwood School Summer Day Camp

Annandale Boys & Girls Club Youth Sports

Hapmudo Summer Camp

Kenwood Summer Day Camp


Artisans United Gallery of Gifts 
10-4, Tuesday through Saturday
1-4 on Sunday

Artisans United

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Read the Latest
ENDEAVOR N
ews Magazine

 

The ENDEAVOR News Magazine is the Chamber's quarterly online publication and the must read magazine in Annandale.  Acquaint yourself with local businesses, community history, revitalization efforts, and issues that concern Annandale: The Crossroads of Northern Virginia TM.



The Annandale American Legion
Post 1
The American Legion976 is recruiting new members.  Veterans and family members welcome to join.  Party hall rental is free for all members.  Call 703-408-9123 and ask for Diane Ramsey.

4206 Daniels Ave, Annandale, VA 22003
(behind the Bank of America building
on Columbia Pike.
RPCOMM6759@aol.com 



Mondays and Thursdays
The Annandale Volunteer Fire Dept. BINGO 
Temporarily Halted due to Covid

Annandale Volunteer Fire Dept. BINGO

Doors opening at 4:30pm – Early Birds start at 6:45pm – Regular Sessions starts 7:45pm

  • 42” LCD TV monitors display next ball to be called.
  • Must be 14 yrs of age to play bingo at AVFD.
  • ATM machine available.
  • Bingo Hotline is 703-941-1328
  •  Non-smoking inside format

 7128 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA  22003
Ample parking on site. www.avfd.org


Wednesdays at 6 PM
Annandale Boys & Girls Club BINGO
BINGO
This weekly event is held at Annandale's

American Legion Bicentennial Post 1976
4206 Daniels Ave.   .   Annandale, VA 22003
located directly behind the Bank of America on Columbia Pike.


Homeless & Hypothermia Shelters
in Northern Virginia
through Fredericksburg (Fairfax, Loudoun, Culpepper, Arlington, Alexandria,  and Prince William Counties, plus Manassas & Manassas Park,  can be found at:  www.novaregion.org/DocumentCenter/View/11750

Office to Prevent and End Homelessness: 703-324-9492   https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/

Families with children who need shelter must contact Coordinated Services Planning at (703) 222-0880 between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm to gain access. After business hours, families with children in need of shelter should go directly to the nearest family shelter.

Bailey's Homeless Shelter

As the weather gets colder, Bailey's Shelter and Supportive Housing (BSSH) is getting ready to begin its Hypothermia Prevention Program, which provides shelter to 50+ additional individuals during the coldest months of the year.  The shelter currently needs donations of new sweatpants, sweatshirts, T-shirts, and underwear to support increased outreach for our homeless neighbors. 

To schedule a donation, volunteer, or just learn more about shelter needs, contact Bianca Clark at bclark@newhopehousing.org, or call 703-578-8852.  If you or someone you know needs shelter, please call BSSH at 703-820-7621.  If you see someone who may need shelter, call the Fairfax County Police non-emergency number at 703-691-2131.  

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Help Fill the Needs of Your Neighbors here in Annandale

Food Bank at ACCA

The need for food donations is greater than ever before. Your support will go a long way in helping to bring relief to our most vulnerable neighbors. For more information or, to donate now, click HERE.

ACCA collects food donations on weekdays with the exception of County Holidays and other scheduled closings from 1 – 5 pm at the food pantry across from Giant Food on Columbia Pike (trailer separate from the day care center) in Annandale. See their website for Saturday donation schedule.

Annandale Christian Community for Action
7200 Columbia Pike Annandale, VA 22003
703-256-0100  info@accacares.org
https://accacares.org/foodpantry/



 

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