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ANNANDALE
The Crossroads of Northern Virginia TM
Read Annandale's News Magazine,
ENDEAVOR
News: Driving While Distracted
News: Real Estate Tax Assessments UP
News: Meet the Artisan Jean Vasconcellos
News: The Police Beat-Spring Baby Boom
Business: Business Insurance Audits
Business: ENERGY SENSE-Lower Your Bills
Elder Care: Pets Fill Our Hearts with Joy
Real Estate:Impact of Internet & Covid
History: The Bomb that Didn't Burst in Air.
VIEW ON NATURE:How do Those Critters Make it to Spring
The Garden Path: Get Ready for Spring
ANNANDALE News, Events & Networking
Nationwide Survey Shows Startling Number of Americans Guilty of DWD Culture of multitasking spreading to the roads, leading many to “Drive While Distracted”
You’ve seen them in your rear view mirror or in the car next to you. Sometimes they’re putting on makeup while steering with their knees, punching text messages into a phone without ever looking up at the road, or using a BlackBerry to read e-mail with one hand and steering with a cup of coffee in the other. Or, perhaps you’ve seen – or even done – worse.
A new survey by Nationwide Mutual Insurance shows “Driving While Distracted” (DWD) is quite prevalent among today’s drivers and more dangerous than you might think. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says distracted drivers account for almost 80 percent of all crashes in the U.S.
As found by Nationwide’s survey, even those who perceive themselves as safe drivers admit to doing outlandish things behind the wheel, including changing clothes, balancing a checkbook and shaving. In fact, more than 80 percent of drivers surveyed identified themselves as multitaskers.
According to the survey of 1,200 Americans, 83 percent of those polled believe they are safe drivers and 59 percent don’t consider themselves distracted drivers. However, 73 percent talk on cell phones, only 16 percent drive at or below the speed limit, and 38 percent admit they have driven a certain distance without any recollection of doing so.
What exactly do people do behind the wheel? According to the survey, 31 percent of respondents say they daydream; 23 percent experience road rage; 19 percent fix their hair, text or instant message; 14 percent comfort or discipline children; and 8 percent drive with a pet in their lap.
Celebrating our Amazing Nurses
Home Instead Senior Care has been honored and inspired by the 14 year leadership of Laura McKay, their VP of Nursing here at the Home Instead/Annandale office. Laura and her nursing team have expanded their services, detailed below, to accommodate older adults without family nearby.
Home Instead/Annandale Celebrates Our Amazing Nurses! Thank you to Laura McKay, Vice President of Nursing, along with Anabelle Ong-Hay, Catherine Pence, Paul Yeboah and Kristen Snellings. We are fortunate to have you all on our Team!
Our Owner Jason Sager (pictured) was pleased to present gifts of appreciation. Catherine Pence and Laura McKay are also pictured.
HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
7058 Columbia Pike (In the Annandale Shopping Center next to Silverado's)
Annandale, VA 22003
703-750-6644 (24/7)
A Virginia Civil Rights Hero
Senator Mark Warner
This month marks the 68th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education – the seminal case that ended institutionalized school segregation in America. But did you know that this case partially came from a Virginia native?
Prior to Brown v. Board, during the Jim Crow era, many Virginia schools remained segregated, including the R.R. Moton High School in Prince Edward County, where sixteen-year-old Barbara Johns was a student. After experiencing many years of substandard school conditions, (plywood and tar paper structures that lacked heating and plumbing) she felt called to action against the injustice of segregation. On April 23, 1951, she led her classmates in a walkout to draw attention to the issue.
The strike attracted local and national attention, and two lawyers from the NAACP filed a lawsuit against the school district as a result. This case would eventually go on to be filed jointly with four other cases and argued in front of the Supreme Court under the name Brown v. Board of Education. I’m guessing you know the rest from here – the Court ruled that there was no legal basis for “separate but equal” and school segregation was officially outlawed.
I’m proud to honor Barbara Johns, which is why I sponsored a bill securing a National Park Service designation for the Moton Museum in Farmville, which honors Johns and all the others that contributed to the local fight to end segregation. This bill passed the Senate unanimously and was recently signed into law, and it will help get the Moton Museum the support and preservation it deserves as it keeps this story alive. I also successfully pushed for a statue of Johns to be placed in the Capitol as another tribute to this civil rights hero – and I’m proud to report that the statue is currently in the works.
Editor's Note: An excellent mystery/adventure book for Middle Schoolers called, "Pictures at the Protest" by Steven K. Smith explores the protest that was led by Barbara Johns. The lawyer who eventually took this case sued for desegregation rather than equal facilities. This case challenged the concept of "separate but equal" since the segregated schools had never been the least bit equal. Four other cases were eventually incorporated into the Supreme Court decision, Brown v. Board of Education, which struck down school segregation as unconstitutional. (1)
As part of Virginia's Massive Resistance (2) to desegregation, Prince Edward County cut off funds to its public schools, which remained closed from 1959 to 1964. Most white students attended schools set-up as private schools that remained firmly segregated. Black students were left with no public education options. It was not until 2003 that the Virginia General Assembly issued a resolution apologizing to Prince Edward County students who lost five years of education.
(1) “Barbara Johns,” Virginia Changemakers, accessed May 21, 2022, https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/items/show/121.
(2) "Massive Resistance was a policy adopted in 1956 by Virginia’s state government to block the desegregation of public schools mandated by the U.S. Supreme Court. Advocated by U.S. senator Harry F. Byrd Sr., a conservative Democrat and former governor who coined the term, Massive Resistance reflected the racial views and fears of Byrd’s power base in Southside Virginia as well as the senator’s reflexive disdain for federal government intrusion into state affairs. Massive Resistance added more bitterness to race relations already strained by the resentments engendered by the caste system and delayed large-scale desegregation of Virginia’s public schools for more than a decade. Meanwhile, Virginia’s defiance served as an example for the states of the Lower South, and the legal vestiges of Massive Resistance lasted until early in the 1970s." Hershman, James. "Massive Resistance" Encyclopedia Virginia. Virginia Humanities, (07 Dec. 2020). Web. 21 May. 2022
MOTON MUSEUM: 900 Griffin Blvd. Farmville, VA 23901 | Museum Hours 12PM - 4PM Mon. - Sat. | 434.315.8775 | info@motonmuseum.org
GREEN SPRING GARDENS
GARDEN PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS
Juneteenth Celebration in the Garden: Saturday, June 18
10 a.m.-2 p.m. (5-Adult) Join us for a Juneteenth celebration in the garden to honor the emancipation of those who had been enslaved in the United States. Celebrate and gather as a family to reflect on the past and look to the future. Guest speakers Teri Speight and Abra Lee will discuss the past, present and future of Black garden clubs in Virginia, and environmental educator Maya Alexander will highlight the benefits of natural spaces for the Black community. Enjoy a mini-Farmer’s Market and activity tables for children. After lunch, join a garden walk or seed planting session. Pack a picnic or preorder from local restaurant, Granddaddy’s Skillet. All attendees (including children) must be registered, and children must be accompanied by an adult. $10 per person, free for children 5-15 years old. Code IKD.3NXW. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Summer Concert in the Garden: Tuesday, June 28
6-8 p.m. (All ages) Every summer, the Friends of Green Spring (FROGS) extend a special welcome to families in the community by hosting a free concert in the garden. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, pack a picnic dinner to enjoy on the lawn, and kick back to hear lively music. Bring the children at 5:30 p.m. to learn about frogs, hear frog stories, enjoy art projects, and participate in games. Have your picture taken with Ribbit the frog! For more information, call Green Spring at 703-642-5173.
HISTORIC GREEN SPRING TEA PROGRAMS
A traditional English afternoon tea served in the 1784 Historic House follows each program. Full tea includes finger sandwiches,pastries, and scone with cream and jam. Specially prepared tea boxes to go are also available with advance purchase.
Programs are by reservation only. Call Historic Green Spring at (703) 941-7987.
Sunday, June 5-Moon Magic
1-3 p.m. (Adults) June’s full moon is the strawberry moon and a super-moon. The Moon is an object of enduring fascination. Explore its many incarnations throughout history, including deity, feminine symbol, and green cheese! Consider the moon’s influence on human behavior, from “lunar lunacy” to its intimate connection with women. $38 (lecture + tea); $15 (lecture only).
Saturdays, June 11 and July 9-Garden Tour and Ice Cream
10-11:30 a.m. (Adults) Tour the vibrant summer gardens with a Green Spring Master Gardener docent. Finish at the Historic House lawn to enjoy delicious ices, served with toppings and garnishes. $15 per person. Code I7Q.G0TU for 6/11; I7Q.RGAF for 7/9. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Thursdays, June 16, July 14 and August 18-Summer Garden Tour and Tea
1-3 p.m. (Adults) Take a walking tour of the glorious summer demonstration gardens with a Green Spring Master Gardener docent. Afterwards, relax over afternoon tea in the Historic House. $38 per person.
Sunday, June 19-Juneteenth: Jane Austen and Slavery
1-3 p.m. (Adults) What were Jane Austen’s views on slavery? Recent “historical interrogation” research has provided new details about Austen family ties to colonialism and the slave trade. Hear about exhibit updates at the Jane Austen House Museum in England that will reflect historical context, and consider what Jane’s writings, tastes, and connections may reveal about her sentiments on the issue. $38 (lecture + tea); $15 (lecture only).
Sunday, July 24-Superstition
1-3 p.m. (Adults) Superstitions are present in all human societies. Discover the origins and rationale of believing in the unbelievable across centuries and cultures. Hear fascinating stories behind common superstitions and discover that tea is steeped in superstition. Learn to be careful how you drink it. $38 (lecture + tea); $15 (lecture only).
Sunday, August 7-Souvenirs: Tchotchkes or Treasures?
1-3 p.m. (Adults) Knickknacks and sentimental mementos of vacations are tangible memory keepers that preserve the past. Discover the origins of “tourist art” and consider souvenirs as historical storytellers, from ancient relics and keepsakes to t-shirts and key chains! Take home a souvenir of Historic Green Spring. $38 (lecture + tea); $15 (lecture only).
Navigating the Infant Formula Shortage
Fairfax County Health Dept
As the nationwide infant formula shortage continues due to a temporary shutdown of the plant that manufactures about half of the U.S. supply, local families are impacted, too.
Our Health Department advises if you have any questions, check with your baby’s physician or healthcare provider, especially if your baby is on a restricted diet or has any medical conditions.
“This is a very challenging time for many parents and caregivers who are doing all they can to ensure their babies are receiving optimal and safe nutrition during the current infant formula shortage,” says Joanna Hemmat, assistant director of the Health Services Division. “There are alternatives and substitutions available to help families as they navigate the shortage. We recommend you reach out to your baby’s health care provider for guidance on alternative formula options. And if you are a WIC participant, Virginia WIC has expanded the number of alternative formula options available to you. We urge parents not to resort to diluting formula to stretch it out or to use online “Do it Yourself” recipes, as both alternatives can lead to nutritional imbalances and are very risky to the baby’s health.”
Finding Formula Tips
Here are some tips if your formula is hard to find:
- Call a store to check on the stock or check the online inventory before going to purchase formula.
- Check smaller markets and drug stores when the big box stores and supermarkets are out.
- Call your OBGYN or pediatrician to see if they have in-office samples or can suggest a formula that is nutritionally similar to your infant’s typical formula that may be available in stores.
- Try a different formula if your baby is not on a restricted diet and has no major health problems. If you are a WIC participant, you may be able to find another type of formula. See the updated substitution form: Updated Formula Substitution Form.
- If you choose to shop online, purchase only from well-recognized distributors and pharmacies rather than individually sold or auction sites. You may not know what you’re actually getting, and there is little or no control over pricing.
- Do not import formula from overseas. These products will not be FDA cleared, and may contain contaminants or ingredients inappropriate for your baby.
- Purchase only a 10-14-day supply each time. It appears unlikely that the supply is going to run out, and hoarding will only make shortages worse.
Call Formula Manufacturers
Additionally, you wish to contact one of the manufacturer hotlines for more information:
- Gerber’s MyGerber Baby Expert : reach a certified nutrition or lactation consultant by phone, text, Facebook Messenger, web chat, or video call, who can help you identify a similar formula that may be more readily available.
- Abbott’s Consumer Hotline: call 1-800-986-8540.
- Abbott’s urgent product request line : ask your OBGYN or your infant’s pediatrician to submit an urgent product request by downloading and completing the form - PDF .
- Reckitt’s Customer Service line: call 1-800 BABY-123 (222-9123).
Do Not Make Homemade Infant Formula or Water Down Formula
This can be dangerous for your baby.
Adding extra water to infant formula to “stretch it out" is not safe and can put your infant at nutritional risk and lead to serious health problems. Always follow the instructions on the formula.
Recipes for homemade formulas may be circulating on the internet, but they are NOT SAFE. Even if only safe ingredients are used, these formulas will not provide adequate nutrition. Learn more about these concerns from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the American Academy of Pediatrics .
Only medical professionals are qualified to provide advice on acceptable alternatives to formulas that may currently be difficult to find. Please talk with your pediatrician about safe and appropriate feeding alternatives for your child if needed.
The Garden Path: Get Ready for Spring
Ten Tips for Preparing Your Garden
Have you noticed any snowdrops, crocus, or other late winter plants popping their heads out of the ground?
If you have, you know spring is around the corner. And that means it’s time to prepare your garden for spring in Northern VA.
Spring Gardening Tips and Tricks to Start the Season on the Right Foot
After a long winter, it’s time to dust off your gardening tools and take inventory of your current beds. It’s also time to pull out the rakes to wake up your garden beds and your lawn.
Before spending time getting your gardening equipment and tools ready for spring planting, walk around your property with a notebook and pencil. Write down what perennials, shrubs, and trees are located in each landscaped area. Also, take stock of any seeds you saved in the fall.
You’ll also need a backyard design if you're starting new gardens. Sketch out some areas where garden beds would beautify your property. Consider how much light, wind, and drainage there are in each spot.
Make sure your new backyard design includes a mix of edibles and non-edibles. Flowers, fruit trees, vegetables, and shrubs don’t need separate beds. Instead, mingle them together for interest, texture, and color.
You may also want to hire a gardening service to help you with a backyard design and to suggest the best plants for your new garden.
Here are 10 spring gardening tips and tricks to start the growing season on the right foot:
Know your growing zone. Northern Virginia is in zone 7 according to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Why do you need to know your plant hardiness zone? Because it helps you know when the last frost will occur and what plants can survive your summers.
For example, plant tags and seed packets that you buy at your local garden center will have zone plant hardiness listed on them. You can determine whether certain lettuces, marigolds, and pumpkins will grow well in Annandale, VA.
Uptick in COVID-19 Cases Prompts Fairfax Health District to Urge Continued Vigilance
Fairfax County Health Dept.
Over the past two weeks in the Fairfax Health District, cases of COVID-19 have risen by 62%; and since a low on March 21, the daily number of cases has about tripled. Although not as high as the peak in cases seen in January, this change is concerning. Just during the past week, there have been 15 new outbreaks (clusters of three or more connected cases of illness) reported in the county with 12 occurring in schools and daycares. Despite this surge in cases, hospitalizations continue to be low, and the community level remains at “low.”The BA.2 variant now is causing most COVID-19 infections in the United States. While there is no evidence that BA.2 results in more severe disease compared to other variants, it is more transmissible as shown by the increase in cases and outbreaks in recent weeks. Additionally, the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to mutate with subvariant BA.2.12 identified first in New York state and now seen nationwide.
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Meet the Artisan: Jean Vasconcellos
The journey of my creative expressions began in the tropics of beautiful rural Guyana where I was raised. Surrounded by the abundance of flora and fauna, varieties of beads growing on trees and clay from the many rivers; my imagination would go wild about what to do with the things I could see, reach and touch. When indoors, my Mom who was the village seamstress taught me to make dolls and their clothing from left-over fabrics and she taught me to do hand-embroidery and smocking, to crochet, to weave and to make lovely paper flowers, as well. I totally enjoyed the opportunity to create gift items with the variety of my ‘country-girl’ skills I could share and bring some added happiness to people around me and also enabled me to save money.
In the midst of this, I took the opportunity to attend Teachers’ Training College where I majored in ‘The Principles and Methods of Teaching’ and the topic of my thesis was ‘The Benefits of Creativity in the Classroom’. After graduation I was assigned to a Pilot School for Vocational Studies where I was responsible for teaching Crafts with the use of local, sustainable materials only.
A few years later, I moved to Barbados and taught at an all-boys Catholic High School. Fine Crafts was then added to the school’s curriculum and those who opted to take the classes created wonderful, hand-built/free-form items of clay and fabulous 3D wall pictures of textiles and yarn with my guidance.
Sunday, June 12: 1-4 pm
Braddock Bark at Lake Accotink Park
Grab your pup and get ready to have a barking good time! This free event brings our community together to celebrate the love that we have for our pets. We welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs to attend and enjoy activities such as pet photography, demonstrations, a dog superlative contest, mobile grooming, and more! Hosted by Supervisor James Walkinshaw of Braddock District.
McLaren Sargent Pavilion
5650 Heming Ave, Springfield, VA 22151
The Golden Years:
Pets Fill Our Hearts with Joy
The warmth and unconditional love of a pet is a therapy for us all – priceless and unmatched.. As we age, that beloved pet becomes even more of a focus to our daily lives – and to our health and emotions. The tactile and constant love of a pet offers a replacement that so many seniors need when little or no family remains regular in their lives.
Did you know that a strong attachment to a pet is associated with less depression among seniors? It is often coupled with less fatigue, tension and confusion as well. There is a strong connection between heart health and pet ownership which is also why animal-assisted therapy has become so popular. Senior pet owners are more likely to get more exercise leading to lower blood pressure and stress levels. And these furry companions can help individuals feel more focused and positive in their daily living.
Our pets provide a wonderful source to channel a sense of responsibility and our affection. To many, they can literally be that reason for being; that heart string connection with a mutual need and devotion. When family and even friends are scarce, a warm furry friend can be that comfort and unconditional love that we all need. Our beloved pets don’t ask–they don’t wait – they just fill our hearts with joy!!
Home Instead Senior Care
7058 Columbia Pike (In the Annandale Shopping Center at Gallows Road)
Annandale, VA 22003
703-750-6644 (24/7)
Freestanding Accessory Structure Locations
To Know about the Location Regulations for Freestanding Accessory Structures on Residential Lots in Fairfax County
Click the Image Below.
On the Energy Front
Spring into Savings with Virginia Energy Sense
For many, springtime means spring cleaning. As you get ready to deep clean your home, consider adding a few energy-saving — and money-saving — home improvements to your to-do list this season.
Breathe Easy With Clean Air Filters
Did you know a dirty air filter can cost you money? When an air filter is clogged, your cooling system has to work harder to distribute air, which increases your energy bill.
Change your air filters once a month to keep your cooling system at peak performance. Another benefit is that you can be sure you’re breathing fresh air — essential for combating seasonal allergies this spring. For added efficiency, consider upgrading to a reusable air filter, which can be washed and lasts up to 10 years.
Break Out the Caulk To Plug Air Leaks
Springtime means warmer weather. If you turn on your air conditioner this season, you’ll want to make sure cool air isn’t escaping through leaks. Inspect your doors, baseboards, and walls for cracks or holes. Then, fill in any leaks with caulk or sealant, which costs less than $10. A little effort now can result in big savings later!
Annandale REAL ESTATE
IMPACT ON REAL ESTATE FROM THE INTERNET AND COVID
First, we have the Internet allowing us to work on our desktops, iPads and iPhones. Over the years workers have transitioned from working 1 day a week from home, to full time at home. The benefits have included less travel time, ability to spend more time with family, time to enjoy our surroundings, not having to dress up (except maybe for Zoom calls), ability to spend time with newly acquired pets, and more.
Then, there is the new factor of viewing our surroundings in a new light leading to home expansion and renovations; also, to deciding to move to a larger home or farther out for a larger home and more land. Statistically, more people are moving to western Loudoun County, for instance.
So, if Covid hadn’t reared its ugly head would people have returned to their offices? After working from home for a couple years not going back to the office is a new trend that may be here to stay. And among those who have a workplace outside of their homes, the majority (61%) said they are choosing to work from home, while the remainder said they're remote because their workplace is closed or unavailable to them. This is up from 54%.
Among people who rarely if ever worked from home before the pandemic and are choosing to do so now, 64% said working from home has improved their work-life balance. In terms of productivity, 44% say remote work has made it easier for them to get work done and meet deadlines. One common downside, however, is feeling less connected to colleagues, which 60% cited.
The Police Beat:
Spring Baby Boom-Keep Young Wildlife Healthy and Wild
Springtime is here, and with the warming temperatures, we see a boom in baby wildlife. Our Animal Protection Police Officers and Wildlife Management office receive many calls this time of year from residents who are seeking help for young wildlife that appear to be orphaned or abandoned.
While these actions are well-intended, it is important to realize intervention may be unnecessary and can be detrimental to wildlife. Many baby animals that are brought to wildlife professionals are in no need of help from humans. Baby animals left alone are not necessarily orphaned or abandoned; many species of wildlife will hide their young for safety, leaving them alone for extended periods of time.
Common wildlife frequently found and “rescued” in Fairfax County include squirrels, red foxes, raccoons, rabbits, skunks, opossums, and songbirds. If you come across a baby animal and feel the need to intervene, we offer guidelines below to determine if the animal needs help. If an animal is displaying these signs, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, veterinarian or our Animal Protection Police for further assistance and instruction.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Kenwood Summer Day Camp
At Kenwood Summer Day Camp the children not only go on exciting trips everyday but also have a wide variety of activities to keep them entertained while they are at camp. When the campers arrive in the morning they are greeted by our friendly camp counselors and immediately go join their friends on our large, wooded playground. Our playground equipment is top notch but you will likely say goodbye to your child as they are running to join the basketball or kickball game in progress on the blacktop. As the day warms up the campers go in groups to one of our 5 themed rooms to cool off and play.
- Game Room - board games, air hockey and foosball tables, and a Wii with a projector
- Art Room - weekly arts & crafts projects to make and take home
- Lounge - bean bag chairs, oversized pillows to relax on, books and magazines to read
- Video Game Room - jam packed with televisions with playstations and lots of games to choose from
- Gym - basketball, volleyball, or relay races are played in a nice, air conditioned environment
The campers can also participate in camp-wide games such as flag football, outdoor laser tag, capture the flag, and karaoke contests. In the afternoons free sports clinics are held in a variety of sports from baseball to football and soccer in our open meadow or gym.
Looking for Summer Fun?
- Extended Day at no additional charge
(7 am to 6 pm) - Week by Week Sign-Up
- Weekly Tuition covers all activity fees
- Sibling Discounts
- Family Registration
Kenwood Summer Day Camp
4955 Sunset Lane
Annandale, VA 22003
703-256-4711 . www.kenwoodschool.com/services/
VIEW ON NATURE
Dead of Winter: How Do Those Critters Make it to Spring?
I always thought the expression “in the dead of the winter” was odd. Yes, it refers to the middle winter, when it is darkest and coldest, but Nature is hardly dead during winter. To numerous Native American tribes, winter is the time for traditional storytelling passed down through the generations, while other cultures humanized the season to the lively ‘Old Man Winter’.
For us, winter is a time of change, a time to bring out our cold-weather clothes, raise indoor thermostats, winterize our vehicles, and indulge on hot chocolate and heavier, fat-induced meals and baked goods that just don’t hold their appeal on the Fourth of July. Similarly, Nature adapts not just to survive but in some cases thrive year after year in frigid, sometimes foreboding conditions.
But how do all the critters survive the prolonged cold and diminished food sources? Think adaptation, migration, avoidance, hibernation, and tolerance.
Insects and other species that only live one year survive by propagating larval descendants able to survive the cold. Migratory birds fly south to warmer climes, while amphibians and reptiles close up shop by burying themselves in sediments, soils, or leaf little. Yet others uniquely, dramatically lower their metabolisms, body temperatures, and heart rates during months of “winter lethargy” (bears, some bats), or full-fledged hibernation (ground squirrels).
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Annandale Area Swimming Pools
Splash Your Way through Summer
Annandale Swim and Tennis Club
7530 Little River Turnpike, Annandale 22003
Membership contact: 703-354-4272 ast22003@gmail.com
Swim team: Red Tide
Social activities: Family dinners, movie nights, family campout and sleepover, annual pig roast, dog swim, ladies’ night party, men’s Texas hold ‘em party,
Special features: Dive team and tennis team, pool slides.
Audrey Moore Recreational Center at Wakefield Park
8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA 22003
703-321-7081
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wakerec.htm
Fully equipped recreational center located within Wakefield Park with a 50m x 25yd pool, one 3m and two 1m diving boards, and super slide. The natatorium also contains spectator seating, doors that lead to a spacious outdoor sundeck, and locker rooms containing saunas and showers. In addition to the various racquetball/wallyball and squash courts, the center has a large gymnasium with six basketball hoops, and volleyball nets. The center also contains a cycle studio, a dance room, a pottery lab and kiln, an arts and crafts room, a photography lab, three multi-purpose activity rooms, and a senior center. Over 40 fitness classes each week are offered for all ages.
Wakefield Park has miles of outdoor trails including the Cross County Trail which is utilized by cyclists, runners and nature lovers. There are well lit outdoor basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, baseball & softball diamonds, a newly expanded skate board park, and soccer fields. An extensive summer camp program is held each year along with the Braddock Farmer's Market on Wednesdays during early May to late October from 2-6pm.
Broyhill Crest Recreation Club
7212 Early St., Annandale 22003
Membership contact: 703-560-1282, 703-914-9608 (front desk)
Swim team: Barracudas
Social activities: Weekly float night, Friday evening happy hours, Sunday night dinners, annual pig roast and silent auction, Fourth of July festivities, Christmas in July, Oktoberfest. Special features: Snack bar, party pavilion available for rental, playground, swim lessons, volleyball, basketball, tennis courts.
Falls Church High School
to begin Renovations this Spring
Planning is complete and renovations are finally scheduled for renovating Falls Church High School starting this spring. The 2017 School Bond referendum provided funding for the planning and design. The construction will occur in phases to allow for continuous use of the school building. The renovation will take approximately 4 years to complete.
The building will expand from 303,413 to 429,000 square feet - a 41% increase with space enough to increase student capacity to 2,500 students from 1,966. The additions include science classrooms, administrative offices, library, music rooms, and site improvements. Construction will continue year round with the school day being uninterrupted.
UnCovered:
The Bomb that Did Not Burst in Air
As Americans battled the British in the War of 1812, militiamen stationed near what is now Fort Belvoir caught a lucky break when one bomb did not perform as expected.
This 13-inch mortar shell was found at the US Army Engineer Research and Development Laboratories Pontoon Basin at Fort Belvoir in October 1959. Sometime between September 3 and 5 of 1814, the Royal Navy bomb vessel Aetna or Meteor likely fired this 194-pound bomb at an American gun battery that had been erected at a small building known as the White House, located at the Belvoir manor ruins.
This hollow bomb was filled with 10 to 15 pounds of gunpowder and plugged with a fuse. The fuse should have burned for 27 seconds before the bomb exploded, projecting two-inch-thick shrapnel at its target. Fortunately for the Americans at Belvoir, this bomb did not burst. The diffused bomb is now preserved with many other artifacts associated with the British attack in September of 1814.
Just a month earlier, Royal Navy commander Vice Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane had begun assembling a large task force off the Maryland coast and assigned Rear Admiral George Cockburn to strike Washington in an effort to demoralize Americans and suppress local resistance. Admiral Cockburn ordered Captain James Gordon’s squadron to sail up the Potomac to Washington to destroy fortifications along the river. On August 24, British soldiers and marines defeated Americans at Bladensburg, Maryland. They entered Washington that evening and set fire to the Presidential Mansion, the U.S. Capitol, and other government buildings. The British left Washington the next day and occupied Alexandria.
Meet the Artisan: Jeanette Bieber
Pottery with a Flair
Jeanette Bieber is a new member of Artisans United. While working as an accountant, Jeanette never gave up her love for art. She has worked in painting including sumi-e, knitting, needlepoint, sewing, embroidery and other handcrafts. When she discovered pottery, she found her passion. “Pottery for me is a wonderful way to express my creative abilities. The technical skills and use of color in glazing a piece of pottery is very satisfying.” Although she is primarily a functional potter, Jeanette has branched out into some decorative work as well. Her pieces include fish vases, pumpkins for Halloween, gnomes and Christmas ornaments for the holiday season.
Pottery is a process that is time consuming and exacting. It includes three stages. The first stage includes creating the piece either by wheel throwing or hand building. Hand building can include the use of templates, molds or other devices to create a shape or object. After the piece is created it needs to dry to what is known as a leather hard consistency.
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.
Jake’s Ice Cream
Made With Pride by Loving Hands
Jake’s Ice Cream has opened at Barcroft Plaza off Columbia Pike. This especially delicious ice cream is handcrafted of fourteen percent butterfat in twenty-four flavors plus four non-dairy/began coconut-based flavors. They also produce house-made waffle cones, sundaes, shakes, floats and many other confections. Each week their assortment of cocoa bombs, cake pops, and ice cream changes making it fun to stop in frequently to taste the latest offering.
Jake’s is owned by Robin Rinearson who worked as a pediatric and developmental optometrist for more than forty-four years. Later she became a geriatric eye care specialist at the NOVA Vision Center in Bailey’s Crossroads. Most recently she envisioned a career in the ice cream business where she could employee individuals with special needs. The shop is named for her nephew Jake, an adult with special needs who lost his job due to the pandemic. Job prospects became dim during this pandemic but even more so for those with special needs since job opportunities were far more limited even in the best of times.
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Artisans United Gallery of Gifts
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
Golf Gifts and Gift Cards
Pinecrest Golf Course
Corner of Braddock and Little River
6600 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
(703) 941-1061 . www.fairfaxcounty.gov/golf/pinecrest
Collector's World
7030 Columbia Pike (current location), Annandale, VA 22003
703-256-8408 . collectorsworldinfo@gmail.com
Call for current hours of operation.
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.
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LAMBROS GOLDSMITH AND FINE JEWELRY
Sparkling, 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
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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
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Read the Latest
ENDEAVOR News 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
976 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
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
Annandale Boys & Girls Club 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.
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
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
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Braddock District Supervisor
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