The 4-H Youth Program is an informal, practical, learn-by-doing educational program for youth ages 5-19 conducted by Virginia Cooperative Extension. Information 324-5369.
These pages of useful information are © copyright 1997 by Community Builders of America Foundation which has assigned updating and publication responsibilities to the Mount Vernon Net.* (For information on their reproduction and publication, see Copyright.*)
Additions, clarifications, corrections, and up-dates to these pages are welcomed. As useful as this information is, there is much that can be done to make these pages more useful for the next person using them.
Send along your suggestions by e-mail to Editor@MtVernon.Net or by post to the Editor, Mount Vernon Net, Box 363, Mount Vernon, VA 22121 or e-mail them to
Alexandria is the address we use for mail delivered to our homes because our letter carriers operate out of post offices admistratively under the Alexandria Post Office. An acceptable alternative address for residents in 22309 is "Engleside, VA 22309" and is sometimes recommended as the one to give an insurance carrier to obtain lower rates on home and automobile insurance, rather than "Alexandria 22309," because a clerk in another area of the country who does not check the zip code may assume that you live in the City of Alexandria.
Mount Vernon is where we live, but if you would like to use it as a mail address for your correspondents to use, there are two steps you need to take-one for postal service and one for e-mail.
Mount Vernon 22121 is the Mount Vernon Post Office. It does not provide mail delivery. So if you wish to use this postal address, obtain a box at the Mount Vernon Post Office. You can indeed use both addresses. (However, don't try to combine the two into one address. Mail will only be delayed, at best, if you try to use your street address with the Mount Vernon address.)
Getting a box and using the Mount Vernon address for your telephone bill will allow you to list your residence in the Bell Atlantic telephone book without the street address and will substantially reduce the number of telephone solicitations you receive.
@Mount Vernon address for e-mail may be used by simply signing up with our local Mount Vernon Net. You do not even have to own a computer. Your e-mail address is
YourName@MtVernon.Net
which not only supports our community but is a nice address to use with friends and on business cards, Christmas cards, letterhead and résumés. It can be your permanent life-time address. (Because the service automatically delivers the e-mail wherever you wish, and you can change Internet access services whenever you wish-as explained at E-mail and Mount Vernon Net.)
Your house number: Is it easy to read from the street? It will help your friends, delivery services (like pizzas and UPS) and, most importantly, emergency vehicles. Lives have been lost because the ambulance or fire engine went to the wrong house. The local hardware stores have inexpensive holders for house numbers to be placed on the house, front fence or mail box.
Many opportunities for study exist in our immediate area. These are a sampling.
Fairfax County Office of Adult and Continuing Education:
Main office, Centreville, 227-2200
Groveton-Bryant Center,
2709 Popkins Lane, 660-2056.
Popkins Lane runs east from Richmond Highway, just south of the
Beacon Mall area.
Fairfax County parks and recreation, see Recreation Services.
George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, 993-1000, admissions 993-2400.
Northern Virginia Community College:
Alexandria Campus, 3001 North Beauregard
Street, Alexandria, 845-6200.
Woodbridge Campus, 1520 Neabsco Mills Road, Woodbridge, 878-5700.
Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Graduate Center:
7054 Haycock Road, Falls Church, 538-8324.
Virginia Theological Seminary, Office of Continuing Education:
3737 Seminary Road, Alexandria, 370-6600.
Prevailing southerly and southwesterly winds are one of the great assets of Mount Vernon, bringing fresh air to us from down river.
Air pollution, however, is a fact of life in metropolitan areas. Monitoring is conducted by a network of government agencies including a county office, a Virginia state office and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) which issues daily ozone forecasts during the summer months. These forecasts can be heard by calling (202) 962-3299. Codes used are Green=Good, Yellow=Moderate, Orange=Approaching unhealthful, Red=Unhealthful.
Code red ozone alerts are broadcast on local radio stations, on public television cable channel 16 and on the web site cais.net/mwcog. On these days, the young, the frail and the elderly are advised to stay indoors as much as possible. Even healthy people are advised to limit strenuous outdoor work and exercise on these days. Since ozone takes several hours to form, the highest levels usually occur from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
ü You can help during alerts by refueling your car after dusk, reducing your use of cars and aerosols, avoiding excessive engine idling, refraining from painting with oil-based paints, setting your air conditioner thermostat to 78° and refraining from lawn mowing until after the alert.
Open fires are prohibited in Fairfax County without a permit issued by the Fire Marshall. Call 246-4800 for information.
Pollution law enforcement is conducted by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, 583-3900, hours M-F 8:15 am to 5:00 pm, which has two inspectors in the Northern Virginia metropolitan area. After-hours pollution law violations may be reported to the Emergency Operations Center at 1-800-468-8892.
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board Alcohol and Drug Service offers a full range of substance abuse services including prevention, assessment, detoxification, outpatient, and day and residential treatment programs. ((457**.) Call 359-7040.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a national support group for individuals for whom drinking has become a problem. Local groups meet regularly at nearby locations. Call 281-7501 for information, times and places.
Alanon is a national support group for individuals who have been affected by others' drinking problems, whether in the family or elsewhere. Local groups meet regularly at nearby locations. Call 764-0476 for information, times and places.
Alateen is the youth branch of Alanon. Participation in the Alateen program for a few months is very helpful for restoring the self confidence and perspective of teenagers whose families are affected by drinking problems of a parent. There are also separate meetings for pre-teens. Meeting times and places generally coincide with those of Alanon so that one parent is able to take them to their meeting. For information, call the same Alanon number, 764-0476.
See also Drug Abuse, Emergency Assistance.
Occasional false alarms are a fact of life but a real aggravation to neighbors if you have an outside siren. Since you are responsible for having it turned off promptly, please make arrangements ahead of time, or have your outside siren disconnected.
Frequent false alarms are a sound reason to disconnect your outside siren.
Centrally monitored alarms must be registered with the local police. Call 360-8400.
Call 911. In the event of a possible heart attack, stroke, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness or other life-threatening situation, the Fire and Rescue Department recommends calling 911 immediately so that an Advanced Life Support Unit with skilled personnel can be dispatched to aid you. They will probably arrive at your home within 5-10 minutes-far faster and with less risk to life than your going to the emergency room. See Fire and Rescue on this subject.
These family members are important to us. Please take a moment to refresh yourself on local policies and practices regarding pets.
County Animal Control, 4500 West Ox Road, 830-3310, hours M-F 6:00 am to 10:30 pm, Sat and Sun 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, enforces county animal laws, investigates complaints of cruelty to animals, provides 24-hour emergency service for injured and stray animals, quarantines animals which have bitten humans, assists in removing stray animals from streets and issues hunting licenses.
Animal bites should be reported immediately to 830-3310 ((102**). Rabies ((114, (115, (120**) is a very serious illness.
County Animal Shelter, 4500 West Ox Road (directions (106**), 830-1100, hours Tu-F 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Sat to 5:00 pm. Lost pets are kept here 10 days if they have collars, 6 days if they have lost their collars. Dog licenses may be purchased here in person or by mail.
Viewing animals for adoption (please do your homework first-Sherwood Hall Library has excellent books on selecting the right kind of pet and the responsibilities entailed):
Feline Foundation, please see their card on page 10.
Alexandria Animal Shelter, 910 S. Payne Street, Alexandria, 838-4775.
County Animal Shelter, 4500 West Ox Road, 830-1100 (Also adoption recording 830-0824).
Channel 16 carries Adopt-A-Pet program, 324-5930.
Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies, licensed annually from age four months, and kept on leash restraint ((111**) when not on your property. They must not be left in the custody of anyone not able to control them. The County has adopted the "pooper-scooper law" ((121**) requiring cleaning up after the dog anywhere off your own property. Responsible dog ownership entails having your dog spayed or neutered.
Dog licenses ((108**) are issued annually between November 1st and January 31st by the Department of Tax Administration. This can be handled by mail. A copy of a rabies certificate must be shown. For information call the Tax Office (222-8234) or the County Animal Shelter (830-1100), both of which issue licenses. The latter is reported to be considerably faster.
A dog barking constantly is cruel to the animal and to the neighbors.
Cats must be vaccinated for rabies, but are not licensed by the County. Responsible cat ownership entails having your cat spayed or neutered.
Ferrets should also be vaccinated for rabies.
Exotic animals may not be kept as pets in Fairfax County. ((119**.)
Wild animals are not proper pets and by law may not be kept as pets. For advice on wildlife problems ((116**), call the Department of Animal Control at 830-3310. For questions about minor injuries to wildlife animals and orphaned wildlife, call the Volunteer Wildlife Hotline 440-0800.
Acreage requirements apply to keeping more than two dogs and to keeping fowl, horses and livestock. ((118**.) Call Zoning 222-1082.
Fish owners will find useful the recording (714** regarding treatment of Fairfax County water for use in fish tanks.
Volunteers are welcomed by each shelter above, by the local Committee to build a National Pet Memorial in Mount Vernon (Box 211, Mount Vernon, VA 22121), and by the Pets on Wheels Program (324-5411) through which volunteers take their pets to visit residents of nearby nursing homes. In particular, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria has been the focus of a number of Mount Vernon residents' volunteer efforts.
Pet sitting, see Neighborhood Services section, page 7.
Locating lost pets can best be begun by (1) searching the neighborhood, (2) calling the County shelter at 830-1100 (or 830-3310 after hours) to file a "Lost Report," since Animal Wardens take strays to the County shelter, (3) calling the Alexandria City's Animal Welfare League shelter at 838-4775 to file a "Lost Animal Report" (8:00 am to 8:00 pm every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas), (4) calling the shelter of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington at 931-9241 (24 hours) to file a "Lost Dog/Cat/Bird/etc. Report," and (5) checking with the Fort Belvoir veterinary clinic at 805-4336 (after hours, the Military Police at 806-3104 can tell you if they have picked up a stray as it will be in their journal). (6) After you have done the above, visit the County shelter and any other shelters where you think your pet might have been taken. Don't rely on a clerk reading the Lost Report. Go back again to the shelter in a few days. Although the state requires an animal found without identification to be held for a minimum of five days and an animal with identification to be held for a minimum of 10 days, each shelter has rules for how long it will hold a new arrival. If it's six days (the County shelter's minimum) make sure your visits are not more than five days apart. The Fort Belvoir shelter, not governed by state law, has a three-day rule. If your pet is important to you, don't rely on paperwork to find your friend; go look for yourself.
If you find a stray pet, look for its identification and let the owner know right away. Call the animal shelter and file a "Found Report." The shelter can trace dog licenses, many local rabies tags, tatoos, and the microchips that many pet owners use for fail-safe identification. A call to Animal Control will have the stray picked up and taken to the County shelter. If you wish to hold the animal and post local "Found" posters, please discuss this with the animal shelter when you call. Please do not leave up such posters more than a week (see Signs). A conscientious search for the owner would include "Found" reports to each animal shelter listed above under Locating Lost Pets.
Art workshops for children are offered by the County Department of Community Recreation Services (324-4386) and the Fairfax County Park Authority (324-8680).
Virginia license plates are required on all vehicles and trailers regularly garaged, parked or operated in Virginia. ((158**). New plates may be purchased at any time of the year and must be purchased within 30 calendar days of bringing a vehicle into Virginia. They are issued upon registration with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Before getting in line, have your paperwork filled out. You may ask to see their catalog of inexpensive special license plates-your alma mater might just have one. For an additional fee you can also request custom letters, numbers or words on your plates.
DMV offices are located in Springfield and Alexandria. For information call 761-4655.
ü You can help make these offices more efficient by not waiting until the end of the month to visit them. The Department says that it is reorganizing its methods of handling workflow to help reduce the long lines that are traditional on the first and last days of the month, and are as stressful for its employees as for its customers. Thanks for good service are always appreciated.
Virginia driver's licenses, also issued by DMV ((155**) , are required for all Virginia residents to operate motor vehicles and must be obtained within 30 calendar days of moving to Virginia. See Virginia Driver's Manual. For information call DMV at 761-4655.
County decal (windshield sticker) costs $25 and may be purchased following payment of Fairfax County personal property taxes. See Taxes. These transactions can be made by mail or in person during normal County government business hours at the Department of Tax Administration, Suite 223, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. Cashier's office stays open on Thursdays until 6:30 pm. See map page A-7. For directions, see Government Center. The new decal must be displayed by November 16th each year, and within 60 calendar days of bringing a car into Virginia. For further information call 222-8234.
Inspection, annual safety. Required for all cars. Performed at local garages, which issue a 12-month windshield sticker.
Inspection, emission control system is required on first registering a car and then every other year. Performed at certain local garages, which issue the certificate required for car registration.
Military personnel should pick up the pamphlet Tax Obligations of Military Personnel Living in Fairfax County at any County library or at the Legal Assistance Office on Fort Belvoir.
Repair estimates, law regarding, recording (251**
Accidents. Reporting requirements vary depending on the amount of damages and whether there are injuries: how to report (151**, when there are injuries (160, when there are no injuries (161. See also Emergency Assistance, Police.
Traffic violations. Informative recordings** are those for tickets (159, the point system (662, reporting reckless driving (661.
The beauty of the area we live in is one of its most important assets. Some neighbors go to great lengths to enhance that beauty, with wonderful plantings and landscaping.
Many of us just don't have that kind of time, though we would love to. Still, we enjoy the attractiveness of our neighbors' homes. An evening's walk is not only good exercise but a feast for the senses.
Each of us plays a part in maintaining the beauty of the area, however, even if it is just in small ways like tending our lawn, or moving that eyesore in the side yard around to the back of the house, out of sight. Please stop to take a look at your house from the street occasionally.
See also Eyesores.
Riding defensively. Bicycling is a wonderful activity. Bicycles provide transportation, exercise and enjoyment for the individual and for a family outing. Bicycling can also be dangerous. Please take a few minutes to review these common sense rules and local laws.
Your responsibility before you or your children ride on the public roads includes ensuring each person knows proper safety procedures and the rules of the road.
Equipment must be in good working order. Check your brakes and your child's brakes frequently. Adjust bike bells so they are loud enough to be heard by someone walking up ahead. By law, every bicycle on the streets after dusk must have a headlight on the front as well as a reflector in the rear. If your child's bike does not have these, please get them. If they don't work, instruct the child out after dusk to walk the bike home, not ride it. Unlit bicycles are "accidents waiting to happen" and against the law.
Sensible clothing for riding on asphalt includes the kind of knee and elbow pads which are worn for skateboarding. For night riding, light colored clothing is recommended. Our local police station recommends putting across your back two or three strips of reflective tape available at any auto parts store or sporting goods store, since the greatest danger is cars coming up from behind. For even the shortest ride, code-approved helmets are required by law for everyone under 15 and are recommended for all bike riders.
Rules of the road. Bicyclists are required by law to obey the same traffic regulations as drivers of automobiles, including giving hand signals before turning. Additionally, they are required to ride to the extreme right side of the road. Children should ride on sidewalks when it's the safe thing to do, but pedestrians always have the right of way. Riding on private property is only permissible with the owner's consent.
Trails. The county has extensive bike trails and is building more. To obtain a map of them, call 324-2974. Riding safely on bike trails requires a degree of caution to avoid colliding with others using the trail. Pedestrians always have the right of way. The rules of the road on bike trails are to ride on the right, pass on the left and give an audible signal before overtaking a pedestrian. Come to a full stop before crossing public roads.
Rentals. Washington Sailing Marina, Daingerfield Island, George Washington Memorial Parkway south of National Airport, 548-9027. The Bicycle Exchange, 1506 Belle View Boulevard, Alexandria, 768-3444.
Lost or stolen. Most bicycles have serial numbers stamped on the frame. Record the number in a safe place. Report a bike theft to 691-2131 as soon as possible. To find a lost or stolen bike, call the local police station at 360-8400. After a few weeks, bikes are taken to the County Police Department's Property Section in Fairfax. Call 246-2786 for directions.
Birth Certificates: see Vital Records.
Motor-powered boats of any type must be registered with the Virginia Game and Inland Fisheries and the registration number displayed in accordance with instructions received upon registering.
Virginia title is required for any sail boat over 18 feet in length and for any watercraft 15 feet or longer that is powered by a motor of 25 horsepower or greater.
Temporary operation. A motorboat registered in another state may operate in Virginia for 90 days without being re-registered in Virginia. To operate boats while awaiting permanent registration and title, obtain a temporary registration certificate ($10.50).
Agents who issue hunting* and fishing* licenses generally also handle boat registration.
Rentals, see Sailing.
Boating forecasts and tides call 260-0505. See Weather.
General Obligation Bonds. To finance most major capital construction projects, Fairfax County issues bonds which must be approved by the electorate (you) at election time, and are general obligations of the County. Our bonds have triple-A ratings of quality from both Moody's and Standard and Poor's rating services, resulting in lower interest rates to the County.
Special Revenue Bonds. The County and its various authorities also issue special or project revenue bonds which are not part of the County budget.
The Fairfax County budget is spent as follows: 51% schools, 12% public safety, 9% health & welfare, 3% general government, 6% to other transfers, 5% County debt and 14% other programs. For a detailed booklet call 324-3185.
Building Permits: see Permits and Home Improvements
Business, Operating a
Before you begin a business, familiarize yourself with the pertinent laws-federal, state and county. Doing Business in Fairfax County is a very useful booklet available at the Mount Vernon Government Center. It provides a summary of permit requirements, taxes, relevant County offices and other time-saving tips.
Home occupations recording (255** is provided by the Department of Consumer Affairs. For further information call their office at 222-8435.
George Mason University offers many excellent one-day seminars and short courses for people planning or operating a business. Call 993-8300.
Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce provides the opportunity to meet others operating small businesses in the area. Regular schedule of lunch and dinner meetings. Call 660-6602.
Mount Vernon Net provides resources for starting and operating a business, as well as advertising and employment opportunities. See http://MtVernon.Net on the Internet.
Fairfax Connector runs to the Huntington Avenue Metrorail Station. Call 339-7200.
Metrobus runs to Alexandria, Pentagon, Washington. Call (202) 637-7000.
Greyhound runs inter-city from Springfield and Washington. Call (800) 231-2222.
Media General Cable serves this area of Fairfax County. Call 378-8422.
Public service cable channels include the Fairfax County Government Cable TV (Channel 16) offering County news and information 24 hours a day (including bulletins during weather and other emergencies) and Fairfax County Public Schools (Channel 21) which offers news on educational issues and school closing announcements during inclement weather, and the Community Classroom (Channel 25) which offers instructional and enrichment programming for student and adult audiences.
Often misunderstood, this service can be turned off when making a call (dial 1170 or *70) or just ignored and the phone number of the last caller will be available to you later (dial 1169 or *69 for Return Call Service, which is inexpensive when ordered with call waiting).
Located at the high school, the Career Center is available for any resident's use. For hours, call the school at 360-5900. See also Employment.
RideSources, run by the County Office of Transportation, is a free program which enables county residents to form car pools and van pools. Call 324-1111.
Cars see Automobiles.
Mt. Vernon Hospital's Select Seconds Thrift Shop, Woodlawn Shopping Center, 780-4603
United Community Ministries' Back Porch Thrift Shop, 7810 Richmond Highway, 799-7015
Salvation Army (Furniture Pick-up), 642-9270
Goodwill Industries, 7702C Richmond Highway, 799-4885, or (202) 636-4233 or
(202) 636-4225x1331 for pick-ups.
School-Age Child Care (SACC) program operates in most schools before and after hours of instruction. It cares for children whose parents are working, studying, or who, for medical reasons, cannot care for them. ((561**.) Call 449-1414 for further information.
Home child care providers must have an annually approved license from the County to operate a business. Regarding rules and procedures ((560**), call 324-8000.
Child Care Resource System (CCRS) of the County Department of Family Services helps parents find child care services appropriate to their needs through individual consultation and detailed computer data base. To find child care ((559**), discuss its cost ((556**) and learn about possible subsidies ((557**), call 449-9555.
See also Babysitting.
Churches: see Worship.
Clubs and Service Organizations
American Horticultural Society, 768-5700
League of Women Voters, 360-9377
Lions Club, 971-5681
Mansion House Swim and Tennis Club, 780-6485
Mansion House Yacht Club, 360-3832
Mount Vernon Yacht Club, 780-8850
Rotary Club, Mount Vernon, 780-5289
Young Life, 780-4096
See also Music and Dance Groups and Scouts.
In residential neightborhoods, trucks or other commercial vehicles should not be parked on or alongside the street for more than two hours unless drivers or associated personnel are actively engaged in deliveries, pick-up or conduct of work services. Applies also to motor homes and buses. Park these vehicles in garage, carport or driveway.
Committees, Community Representation
The committees of the Mount Vernon Council of Citizens Associations* need representatives from each individual community association. What is your own personal area of interest? Is it local transportation problems? County budget matters? Education? Public safety? Consumer affairs? Health and human resources? Planning & zoning? Talk with your community association president about being appointed to the Council committee which keeps abreast of these matters. For further information, call a Council officer, or Supervisor Hyland's office, 780-7518.
Commonwealth's Attorney
Robert F. Horan, the Commonwealth's Attorney, is the chief law enforcement officer of Fairfax County. It is an elective office with a four-year term. His office prosecutes criminal cases, and all felonies and misdemeanors, as well as over 150,000 traffic cases a year. Telephone 246-2776.
Community Beautification
Each one of us plays a part in making ours an attractive community. There are many ways for each of us to pitch in, from policing trash on the roads to taking down illegal commercial signs to helping remove eyesores.
A compost pile in your backyard will provide a valuable source of fertilizer for your plants and will help reduce the yard waste hauled to the county landfill.
Consumer Protection
County Consumer Affairs Department investigates reports of consumer law violations, as well as regulating such commerce as taxicabs and pawnbrokers. Complaints against local businesses (and landlords) for fraudulent practices must be made in writing. Call 222-8435 to obtain complaint form or to check on a particular local business's complaint history.
Useful recordings** include health spa memberships (256, auto repair estimates (251, tenant-landlord relations (258**.
See Home Improvements*
Useful recordings menu (200**.
See also Beauty*, Eyesores*.
This Useful Information write-up has been copyrighted to prevent commercial exploitation. It may not be reproduced without permission of the copyright holder, Community Builders of America Foundation. Permission is hereby given to individual persons to copy, for their own personal and non-commercial use, selections from the text not exceeding five pages in total. Individual persons and organizations having need of a more complete text are referred to the Fairfax County Citizens Handbook, which has been reprinted and is now available at the library* and at the Mount Vernon Government Center.*
Community Associations may publish this Useful Information to their membership by contacting Mount Vernon Net* which handles its updating and has initiated a program to pay community associations' printing costs through the sponsorship of local businesses.
A map of the City of Fairfax showing the location of the courthouses is included in the appendix at page A-7. The fastest route is to take the Beltway to Route 236 to Fairfax City*. Alternatively, take Richmond Highway (Route One) south to the Fairfax County Parkway and follow it (see entry below at Parkway for navigational pointer) to the Ox Road (Route 123) northbound exit. Its name changes to Chain Bridge Road as you approach Fairfax City.
Scenic alternative route through Lorton, take Richmond Highway south to Lorton Road and follow it to the end, turning right on Ox Road (Route 123) and following it into Fairfax City.
General District Court hears cases of traffic violations, criminal misdemeanors, civil suits, and small claims cases. It conducts preliminary hearings in felony cases. In cases involving up to $1,000, the court has exclusive jurisdiction. In cases involving $1,000 to $10,000, it has concurrent jurisdiction with the Circuit Court. Located in the new courthouse, 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax. Hours: M-F 8-4. Recording (664**. Information 591-8525.
Circuit Court, in addition to hearing appeals from lower courts, has exclusive jurisdiction over all felonies and all civil suits involving more than $10,000. It has concurrent jurisdiction with the General District Court over civil suits involving $1,000 to $10,000. Other Circuit Court services include civil and criminal cases with juries, adoptions and equity cases, cases of probate of estates ((671), appeals of traffic offenses penalties, name changes ((674), marriage licenses ((673), civil marriage celebrants, trade names, passport applications, processing of concealed weapons permits, and all divorce ((675) cases with child custody, support and visitation rights. The Land Records Office of the Circuit Court keeps details of real estate transactions, which are available to the public. Located in the new courthouse, 4110 Chain Bridge Road. Hours M-F 8:00-4:00. Recording (663. Information 591-8525.
Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court has jurisdiction over all offenses committed by juveniles, by adults against juveniles, and over all cases involving complaints between family members such as matters of custody, non-support and assault. Located in the old courthouse, 4000 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax. Hours M-F 8:00-4:00. Recording (665. Information 246-3367.
Magistrate, Mount Vernon Government Center, 2511 Parkers Lane, 780-8580 (24 hours). Useful recording (666**. In 1974, the magistrate system replaced Justices of the Peace. Some legal cases are brought before a local magistrate prior to their reaching the above courts. Our local magistrates staff this office around the clock, working on a shift basis, so that someone is always available. Magistrates are not law enforcement officers but are judicial officers of the Commonwealth whose principal function is to provide an unbiased, independent review of complaints brought to the office by police officers, sheriffs, deputies and citizens. While they do not provide legal advice, they try to assist citizens by providing general information about the workings of the justice system. Most magistrates are not attorneys.
Magistrates' powers include issuing warrants (for searches and arrests), issuing summonses, issuing subpoenas, issuing emergency custody orders (in cases of mental illness), issuing emergency detention orders (where a person refuses medical assistance for serious illness or injury), issuing emergency protective orders (in domestic violence cases), setting bail, admitting to bail, committing to jail, and accepting payment of traffic and certain minor misdemeanor offenses (when payment is made five or more calendar days prior to court date).
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, 401 Courthouse Square, Alexandria, 299-2100. Location is in the new Carlyle area of the City of Alexandria, off Duke Street, not downtown by the City Courthouse. Traffic cases initiated by military police and the U.S. Park Police are heard here. Visitors have observed that penalties assessed by the magistrates of this court are often higher than the amount stated on the ticket, and court costs are additional.
Death Records: see Vital Records.
Delegates, House of
The House of Delegates is the lower house of the Virginia legislature. Delegates are elected for a term of two years, extending through December 1999. They will stand for election again in November 1999. See also Elected Officials, Elections, Senate.
Remember that you have underground utility lines. Before you or a contractor dig, call the locator number, "Miss Utility" 1-800-257-7777, for free marking service.
Disabilities, Programs for Persons with
General information. Many forms of assistance are available for persons with disabilities. Some of these programs are noted below. For general information, call Human Services Access/Coordinated Services Planning 222-0880.
Directory of TDD access numbers for Fairfax County offices is available from 222-0880 (voice) or 803-7914 (TDD). For a more complete directory of metropolitan area TDD access numbers, call (301) 585-3323 (TDD).
Home repairs. Assistance is available for minor repairs or adjustments such as building wheelchair access ramps. Call the Department of Housing 246-5154.
Libraries. Over 23,000 talking books are available. Call Access Services 660-6943.
Park Authority has year-round activities. Call 324-8563.
Parking permits for spaces designated for persons with disabilities may be obtained from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Call 761-4655.
Public schools provide special education programs for school-age children as well as screening checkups for 2-4 year olds. Call 246-7899.
Transportation. Lift-equipped FASTRAN vehicles ((616**) are provided by the County to certified riders for essential shopping and medical appointments. Call 222-9764 regarding certification and availability.
Good Samaritans. Some Mount Vernon community associations have initiated Good Samaritan* programs in which neighbors have volunteered to help with transportation and other needs where assistance is needed but not otherwise readily available.
Door-To-Door Solicitors: see Solicitors.
Faithful payment by all members of our community association dues allows them to maintained at a modest level each year.
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board operates the Alcohol and Drug Services Program of Fairfax County. It offers a full range of substance abuse services including prevention, assessment, detox, outpatient and residential treatment programs. Call 359-7040.
National Clearing House For Alcohol and Drug Abuse Information (301) 468-2600
Narcotics Anonymous local meetings can be found by calling 532-1255.
See also Alcohol Services, Emergency Assistance.
Title, Incumbent
Telephone, Facsimile
E-mail / Web Site
United States
President - Bill Clinton
(202) 456-1414, (202) 456-2461
president@whitehouse.gov
Vice President - Al Gore
(202) 456-1414, (202) 456-2451
vice.president@whitehouse.gov
U.S. Senator - Charles
Robb
(202) 224-4024, (202) 224-8689
senator@robb.senate.gov
U.S. Senator -
John Warner
(202) 224-2023, (202) 224-6295
senator@warner.senate.gov
U.S. Representative, 8th
District - James Moran
(202) 225-4376, (202) 225-0017
repmoran@hr.house.gov
Commonwealth of Virginia
Governor - George Allen
(804) 786-2211, (804) 371-6351
governor@gov.state.va.us
www.state.va.us/governor*
Lt. Governor - Don Beyer
(804) 786-2078, (804) 786-7514
ltgovbeyer@aol.com
Attorney General - James
Gilmore
(804) 786-2071, (804) 371-0200
rcullen@aog.state.ba.us
Senator, 36th District - Joseph
Gartlan
(804) 786-6691, (703) 339-0033
senjoegar@aol.com
Delegate, 42nd District - David
Albo
(804) 786-6804, (703) 451-3555
davealbo@aol.com
County of Fairfax
Chairman of Board of
Supervisors - Katherine Hanley
(703) 324-2321, (703) 324-3955
chairman@co.fairfax.va.us
www.co.fairfax.va.us/gov/chair*
Mount Vernon Supervisor - Gerald
Hyland
(703) 780-7518, (703) 780-1491
mtvernon@co.fairfax.va.us
Mount Vernon School Board
Representative and Chairman of School Board -
Kristen Amundson
(703) 246-4787, (703) 768-1893
board@burkholder.fcps.k12.va.us
* Prefer to receive e-mail through this web site.
General elections are held on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Federal elections are held in even-numbered years, county and state elections in odd-numbered years. The next elections for federal offices will be held in 1998, for state and county offices in 1999.
Primary elections are held on the second Tuesday in June preceding general elections.
Registration and voting : see Voting.
Ballots: see Elected Officials and listings under individual offices here. Also on the ballots will be the approval of any proposed amendments to the Virginia Constitution and any new Fairfax County bond issues ("bond referenda"), both of which require approval of the voters.
Poll workers. If you are interested in working at the polling place, call the Election Board Office at 324-4735.
E-mail simply means electronic mail-great for corresponding with family and friends down the street or around the world because it's easy, it's fast, and it's free if you have a computer.
If you don't have a computer you can still send and receive e-mail by signing up with our local Mount Vernon Net.
If you do have a computer, you should join Mount Vernon Net* for several reasons. Not only is it the civic thing to do, to be a part of this community initiative, but you get a Mount Vernon address* to put on your letterhead, business cards and Christmas cards. And it makes a good permanent e-mail address because the Net's server will automatically forward your mail wherever you wish, freeing you to move between Internet services. (Now you can take advantage of that latest free ISP offer without ever "leaving home.")
Eliminating junk mail. As long as e-mail is free, entrepreneurs will find new ways to use it. Here is the way to solve the problem. Give your Mount Vernon address to your friends and to your important business contacts. For all other e-mail and web surfing, use any address you wish; change the address often; each time you change, your junk mail will be lost! Furthermore, each junk mail message will subsequently bounce back to the person who sent it. (So if we all did this, we could eliminate junk mailers too--burying them in their own waste.)
Each community association in the Mount Vernon area has been invited to join the Mount Vernon Net and obtain an @MtVernon.Net e-mail address, as well as its own home page and threaded discussion for member communication. If each person working on community matters has e-mail, it can save meetings and speed communication, such as passing drafts of materials between those working together on projects.
Residential electric service is provided by Virginia Power, a state-regulated subsidiary of the investor-owned power company Dominion Resources. Equipment is often stamped with the company's former name, Virginia Electric Power Company (VEPCO).
Power outage. Call the toll-free number 1-888-667-3000 (24 hours). An automated system matches the calling number with its address and forwards the outage report to repair crews. The system can handle 100,000 calls an hour. To ensure these records are accurate for your home, check the street address and telephone number printed on your monthly bill. When reporting a power outage, use that telephone number to call in from. (If you have more than one phone line, you cannot register both lines with this system.)
Billing questions may also be referred to the same number, but only during office hours M-F 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Bill paying office has been closed. Payments in person can now be made at certain convenience stores in the area.
Energy share is a program enabling customers to help others with their electric bills. Funds are turned over to United Community Ministries and the County Department of Family Services which administer their allocation to families in need.
Emergency Assistance
Fire call 911
Ambulance call 911
Ambulance, Fort Belvoir call 911
Police, ongoing crimes, car accidents call 911
Non-emergencies:
If you need the police to come (dispatcher) call 691-2131
Other police matters (local police station) call 360-8400
Poison hot line call 698-2900 or (202) 625-3333
Drug/alcohol:
Medical emergencies call 911
Suicide and other crises 527-4077
(Northern Virginia Hot Line)
Hearing impaired call 280-1368
(If TTY, press announcer bar several times)
Flooding call 691-2131
(see Flooding below)
The above are all 24-hour numbers.
Private companies. Fairfax County is now home to over 23,000 employers. The reference librarians at Sherwood Hall Library are expert in showing how to research companies and employment opportunities.
County government positions ((351, (350**) availability announcements are accessible in a variety of ways including the 24-hour job information recording at 324-JOBS, the CRIS kiosk at Sherwood Hall Library, Channel 16 television, the County internet web page http://www.co.fairfax.ca.us, the County computer on-line bulletin board at 802-3270 and in person at the County Personnel Application Center at Suite 17, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax. Other information recordings** are (351, (357, (358.
State and federal government positions may be similarly researched at Sherwood Hall Library.
County school positions call 750-8400.
Forty-Plus of Greater Washington provides employment transition support, workshops and networks for members seeking employment in the metropolitan area. Call (202) 387-1582.
Fairfax County Office for Women offers career development and employment services. Call 324-5730.
Women's Center of Northern Virginia offers counseling, support and workshops for women returning to the workforce or transitioning. Call 281-2657.
Persons over age 50 may receive employment support and referrals from the non-profit Senior Employment Resource Center. Call 750-1936.
Income-eligible seniors recording, (752**
Mount Vernon area employment opportunities often appear in the Mount Vernon Gazette, the Mount Vernon-Lee Vantage and the Mount Vernon Net*.
See also Career Center, Volunteering.
As one man's music may be his neighbor's poison, so one person's cherished project may be his neighbors' eyesore, and is best done in the privacy of the back yard, not in the side yard or the front yard. As a general rule, the best way we can help maintain the attractiveness of the area which we prize so highly is to look at one's own house from the street. If in doubt, just ask your neighbors! See also Beauty.*
Namesake. Fairfax County and Fairfax City are named after Thomas Fairfax, Sixth Baron of Cameron (1693-1781). History buffs will know that Thomas was a favorite family name-Thomas, 3rd Baron, played a major role in English history as an associate of Cromwell. Thomas Fairfax inherited large estates in Northern Virginia and moved here permanently about 1746. It was his cousin William Fairfax who built Belvoir, his family home, on the promontory that is now Fort Belvoir. Belvoir of course refers to the beautiful view of the river.
Laid out in 1800 when the original courthouse was planned, Fairfax City was the county seat.
No longer part of Fairfax County since being separately incorporated in 1962, as under Virginia law incorporated cities are not part of counties. Consequently, while many County offices are still located in Fairfax City (see map on page A-7 at the back), many others have been moved from the city to the newer Government Center* area to the west.
Still shares some public services with the County, such as the school system and library.
Directions: Take the Beltway to Route 236 (Main Street, Fairfax) or to Route 50 or to I-66 (never at rush hour). Fairfax City is located where these roads intersect Route 123 (Chain Bridge Road, which is called Ox Road from Fairfax City south to Woodbridge). Alternative directions: Take Fairfax County Parkway* to Route 123 exit northbound.
Scenic alternative directions: Take Richmond Highway (Route 1) south to Lorton Road (at the foot of the hill after Telegraph Road). Follow Lorton Road to the end, then turn right onto Ox Road (Route 123) and follow it north where it becomes Chain Bridge Road as it enters the City (see map above).
We live in the Commonwealth of Virginia, the County of Fairfax, the Mount Vernon District.
Founded in 1742, Fairfax County covers 399 square miles. Its population of approximately 920,000 is the largest of any political jurisdiction in the Commonwealth. ((405**)
Our local government is the government of Fairfax County, organized by departments under a chief administrative officer-the County Executive, Robert O'Neill, Jr.-who is appointed by the Board of Supervisors* and whose office is located in the Government Center* at 12000 Government Center Parkway. The County has 10,400 employees, including the Park* Authority but not including employees of the School System*. The County has a $1.77 billion annual budget* of which 51% goes to fund the School System.
Standard office hours for Fairfax County government are M-F 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
For information on particular Fairfax County programs, see listings under the individual headings in this section. General information may also be obtained during County government office hours by calling the Fairfax County Citizens Assistance Desk in the Fairfax Government Center lobby at 324-3185, the County Government Center switchboard operator at 324-2000, or the County Public Affairs Office at 324-3187.
County Resident Information System (CRIS) is a network of multimedia kiosks which provide printouts of information on various topics parallel to what you now hold in your hands, but not bound so handsomely nor arranged alphabetically. However they are considerably more authoritative, accurate and up-to-date. At publication time they were only located in regional libraries and government centers, so our two in Mount Vernon are close enough to talk to each other. Watch for further developments.
On-line sources of information are the County web site at http://www.co.fairfax.va.us and bulletin board, called the Fairfax County Information Network (FCIN), at 802-3270. For staff assistance during regular County government hours, call 324-4584.
Fairfax County Economic Development Authority
FCEDA has useful information on doing business in Fairfax County, including free publications on their economic development activities and a free computer database of local businesses. ((408, 403**)
Farmers' Market
Our local farmers' market is held from May to November on Tuesdays from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Mount Vernon Government Center* on Parkers Lane. Information 324-5390.
Alexandria City farmers' market is the oldest in the country, held year round on Saturday mornings from 5:00 am to 9:00 am in Market Square at City Hall. Information 838-4770.
Fingerprinting Services
Recording (653**.
Emergency call 911.
Local fire stations are staffed 24 hours a day by professional full-time, career fire fighters who are also trained as emergency medical personnel.
Normal fire dispatching sends a fire engine, which has a paramedic on board.
Normal ambulance dispatching sends an ambulance with two medical technicians.
Advance Life Support unit is also dispatched to meet any situation involving possible heart attack, CPR, stroke, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness, or any other life-threatening situation. ALS units are stationed at the Sherwood Hall and Penn Daw fire stations.
Teamwork. These various units are trained to work as a team on arrival at your home.
Questions. Residents with questions are encouraged to call their local station.
Fire Prevention and Preparedness
Responsibilities of every family include preventing house fires and ensuring the safety of each family member in the event of a fire.
Fire drills are an essential part of preparedness. Does each member of the family know what to do if a fire breaks out in each different part of the house? Preparing a family fire plan includes knowing sensible escape routes from each bedroom, feeling doors before opening them (to check that they are not hot), using a wet towel or pillow case as a mask, staying close to the floor. Every bedroom needs two ways to exit. Recording (304** has useful information on home fire extinguishers. If you would like to encourage the County to add more recordings on fire preparedness, call 324-3185.
Properly working smoke detectors are now required by law in all single-family homes. Since homeowners are responsible for maintaining them in good working order, the failure to do so could jeopardize your fire insurance policy. At least one smoke detector should be installed on each level of the house, including each hallway in sleeping areas. Either of the two types of smoke detectors may be used-battery-powered or powered by house current. Battery-powered units are inexpensive and easy to install but you must remember to change batteries at least once a year. A simple way recommended by our local fire station is to change the batteries when you set your clocks in the fall and in the spring. For further information or to participate in a free installation program, call the fire station.
Records of your household furnishings are invaluable after a fire. The most useful records are accurate, thorough, and reasonably up-to-date. They should be stored in another location, such as at the home of a relative. A simple, effective way to inventory one's possessions is with a video camera. If you are interested in participating in a program to make such an inventory for your family, send a postcard to our Community Association.
Further information on fire preparedness and prevention is available from our local fire station and from the main office of the Fire and Rescue Department at 246-3801.
Definition. The term firearms covers all types of guns, rifles and handguns, including air rifles, BB guns and starter pistols.
Authority. The ownership or use of a firearm carries certain safety and legal responsibilities on which the police at our local police station are your authority. Call them at 360-8400. See also the pamphlet Hunting and Shooting in Fairfax County available there and at County libraries. See also Hunting.
Ownership of most firearms requires no special permit by Fairfax County.
Carrying most firearms is permitted if they are not concealed. The Circuit Court issues permits to carry concealed handguns; for a recording, call 246-3486.
Purchasing. ((654**.) Businesses selling handguns must have permits and must obtain a permit for each sale.
Minors under age 18 may only carry a firearm that is unloaded and in a carrying case. They are not permitted to use a firearm except under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian or adult instructor. The transfer of ownership of a firearm to a minor is illegal.
County policy on the use of firearms is as follows (source Fairfax County Citizen's Handbook): Hunting with firearms and recreational shooting-generally limited to shotguns and air rifles-are permitted in the county only:
1. On a parcel of land or unbroken combination of parcels of 20 acres or more, hunters may use multiple-ball shotguns only, provided the landowner has given permission and obtained a permit from the Director of Animal Control listing authorized hunters.
2. On an outdoor shooting range for which a permit has been obtained, or on a target range operated by the Police Department or some other law enforcement agency.
3. In an entirely indoor target range, provided that adequate measures have been taken to ensure that projectiles remain within the structure.
4. By a law enforcement officer in the performance of duty, or by anyone else for the purpose of protecting any person from death or bodily harm.
5. Shooting in accordance with a special permit issued by the State Game Warden to prevent substantial property damage by an animal.
Most are illegal in Fairfax County, including all that explode. Legal fireworks include sparklers, smoke bombs and tubes that shoot out showers of sparks less than 12 feet. These are sold locally between June 1 and July 15.
Licenses are required to fish in Virginia. Fishing licenses are issued by the State Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. They may be purchased at many hardware and sporting goods stores.
Game Warden: see Hunting.
Mason Neck State Park, 7301 Highpoint Road, off Gunston Road (Route 242), Mason Neck, 550-0960 has a boat launch for fishing in the Potomac. Park open daily 8:00 am to dusk, year-round. Visitor center (550-0362) hours vary, generally open by 10:00 am to approximately 6:00 pm year round.
Jones Point Park, 1 Lee Street, Alexandria. 52-acre park with fishing piers and other facilities.
Cameron Run Regional Park, 3699 Eisenhower Ave. Fishing allowed from the shore of Lake Cook. Call 960-0767.
Emergency assistance 24 hours a day may be obtained by calling the County Public Assistance Center at 691-2131. Tell them the kind of flooding and whether there are live electrical outlets/appliances in the flooded area.
Main shut off valve for your home's water line is important for family members to know: where located and how to operate. Some recommend labeling the handle conspicuously, attaching a pair of "vice-grip" pliers so even the children can turn it off in an emergency, and turning it off before leaving on vacation. In a pinch, water can be turned off outside at the meter (twist valve 90°). The water remaining in the pipes can be drained by opening a faucet downstairs.
Sewer drain backup problems coming from outside your house, call the County Department of Public Works at 323-1211. More commonly, such problems are caused by blockage within the house and are your responsibility to fix or call a plumber to fix.
Storm drain backup problems may be reported to the same department at 246-2406.
Electric power outage for an extended time sometimes can result in flooding from shutdown of sump pumps. Also, in homes with oil-heated hot water systems, the cooling of the boiler water jacket can result in leakage. If boiler leakage occurs, turn off the furnace power switch, turn off the feed valve to the boiler and open the drain valve (at the bottom of the boiler) with a garden hose attached leading to a drain. (Ater refilling the system, check that each zone is zone is heating properly and purge the air from any zones that are not. Your heating contractor can check this during the annual cleaning such furnaces should have to retain their efficiency.)
In new houses less than two years old, if foundation damage such as cracking or bowing occurs, call the County Code Enforcement Board at 324-1937.
Insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program, of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, offers affordable flood insurance at 1-800-638-6620.
Signs on cars and boats are not attractive. Such items are best sold through the local papers, bulletin boards and internet postings. Also, Mount Vernon area residents may place cars, trucks and boats on the Fort Belvoir sales lot. See Fort Belvoir.
See also yard sales and signs.
Information 545-6700, M-F 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Personnel locator 805-2043, M-F 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Military police 806-3104, 24 hours
Speed limit is 35 m.p.h. on all roads passing through Fort Belvoir and on roads within the post except housing areas (25 m.ph.), the new Fairfax County Parkway (presently 45 m.p.h) and the lower part of Route One approaching Pohick Church (50 m.p.h.). Speed limits are indeed enforced-by both military police and county police (joint jurisdiction); the law is the same for both (Virginia Code) but cases involving tickets issued by Military Police are heard at the new U.S. District Courthouse in Alexandria. See Courts.
Speed traps exist, especially on those apparently deserted stretches of road.
Vehicles and boats for sale are parked in the lot across the street from the post gas station. You do not have to be military to use this lot (to buy from it or to park here), but you must register. Presently handled by B.O.S.S. which can be contacted through 805-3781. The marina also has a bulletin board listing boats for sale.
Residents interested in becoming foster parents ((811**) may call the County Foster Care Program at 324-7639.
Garbage: see Refuse Collection and Recycling
The Virginia legislature is in session annually, beginning on the second Wednesday in January, for 60 days in even years and usually for 45 days in odd years.
See also Delegates, Senate, Elected Officials.
Recording (618**.
See Parks.*
Some Mount Vernon community associations have initiated Good Samritan programs in which neighbors have volunteered to help their neighbors with transportation and other needs when other assistance is not readily available. This can be done by including in a membership questionnaire, such as often used to compile the residents directory, a place for the respondent to check, "Please call on me as a Good Samaritan. Let me know if there is a neighbor who has a particular need." These confidential responses are compiled by the association president who designates a person to be called when such assistance is needed.
There are two government centers which serve us.
Mount Vernon Government Center, 2511 Parkers Lane, next to the Sherwood Hall Lane fire station. Located here are the office of our Supervisor*, Gerry Hyland (780-7518), the office of the District Magistrate* (780-8580, 24 hours), and the District Police* Station (360-8400, 24 hours).
Fairfax Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, is the County's capitol building, affectionately known as "the Taj" for economy of style. See map page A-7.
Directions: From the Capital Beltway, Route I-495, take Route I-66 westbound to Exit 55B onto the Fairfax County Parkway northbound, turning right onto Fair Lakes Parkway, and then at the third light turning right onto Monument Drive and then right again onto Government Center Parkway. The Government Center will be on your left. Alternatively, take Richmond Highway (Route One) south to the Fairfax County Parkway* and follow it to Fair Lakes Parkway, then follow the directions above. Scenic alternative route through Lorton, take Richmond Highway south. At the foot of the hill after Telegraph Road, turn right onto Lorton Road and follow it to the end, turning right onto Ox Road (Route 123). Take 123 north to the Fairfax County Parkway. Follow the Fairfax County Parkway west to the Fair Lakes Parkway exit. Then follow the directions above. You may also refer to the map on page A-7.
Fairfax County government encourages composting grass clippings and leaves to reduce the burden on the landfill. Many residents believe in leaving the grass clippings on their lawns and not using chemical fertilizers which run off into the river.
Gunston Hall Plantation
George Mason's home, named after the family home in Staffordshire, England, was completed in 1758. The charming house has intricately carved interiors and extensive formal gardens. Mason was the author of the Fairfax Resolves, the first Constitution of Virginia and the Virginia Bill of Rights. Taking an active role in the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1878, Mason opposed the compromises on slavery and the slave trade. His suggested amendments to the U.S. Constitution became the substance of the present Bill of Rights.
Location. Gunston Road, Mason Neck.
Hours 9:30 to 5:00. Open every day except Christmas.
Telephone 550-9220.
Two worthwhile brochures explaining the steps you need to take to protect your oak trees from this devastating insect are available at the Mount Vernon Government Center. They are Control Options For Gypsy Moths and Burlap Banding. A third brochure on Look-a-likes can help differentiate the gypsy moth caterpillars from others.
Banding oak trees with burlap is recommended. Burlap is provided by the County with these brochures from mid-April to mid-June.
Aerial spraying is conducted by the County some years, based on the egg counts the previous fall. Before such sprayings, the Gypsy Moth Office (324-5304) sends each home a notice of the date and the safety precautions such as keeping pets indoors.
Tent caterpillars are often confused with gypsy moths. Distinguished by the large tents they build in tree crotches and the single cream-colored stripes down their backs, tent caterpillars also feed on other trees but are not as devastating because the damage they do occurs early in the spring and the trees tend to rebound, whereas the gypsy moth caterpillars can kill your oaks. The tents of tent caterpillars can be easily spotted in your trees and successfully exterminated with wasp spray. Gypsy moths do not build tents.
Never put the following items in your household trash!
Here's how to dispose of them:
Take to an auto service station which accepts for recycling (most nearby stations):
Used motor oil
Auto batteries
Take to the Lorton Landfill* for proper disposal the above items and:
Auto anti-freeze
Pesticides-insect/pest control sprays/liquids/solids
Herbicides-weed control products
Other poisons
Oil-based paint and paint solvents (not latex paints - see below)
Household cleaners, solvents, and oven cleaners
Car waxes with solvents
Photographic chemicals
Household batteries: carbon zinc, nicad and button batteries are recycled
(Alkaline batteries cannot be recycled and may be disposed of with regular trash.)
Latex paints are not hazardous waste. The Department asks that you not take them to the hazardous waste collection point. Just open the cans, allow them to dry out and then put them into your regular trash collection.
Useful recording 324-5068. For other information call 324-5052 or call 324-5230 during regular County office hours.
County's Mount Vernon Office is located at 6301 Richmond Highway. Call 660-7100 to learn where to obtain information on home-based medical care, adult day-care programs, HIV counseling and any other health matter. The following is an outline of the on-site services provided to Mount Vernon residents at this location.
Free services to all residents, regardless of age or income, include checking blood pressure, measuring height and weight, screening hearing and eyesight loss, the diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases, confidential and anonymous testing for HIV, lead screening for children under seven and immunizations ((454**) for children 18 and under.
Fee-based services offered to all county residents include immunizations for adults, pregnancy testing, hepatitis B screening and vaccine, tuberculosis testing, speech evaluation and therapy, and hearing evaluation by an audiologist.
Services for income-qualified residents provided at this location include maternity, well-baby pediatrics, Medicaid emergency dental services and the supplemental food program for pregnant women. Referrals are made to other County-run facilities for pregnancy prevention and for a broad array of other medical services.
Medicaid. ((455**) This office will process applications for families enrolling in medicaid for the first time.
Other locations and services of the County Health Department address housing codes health and safety hazards (call 246-2300), on-site sewage problems (call 246-2201), building plan review (246-2510).
Local history. One of the pleasures of living in Mount Vernon is savoring the abundance of our history. Some historic sites open to the public in the immediate area are:
Mount Vernon Estate, open daily, summer 9:00 to 5:00, winter to 4:00
Woodlawn Plantation, open daily, summer 9:30 to 4:30, fall and winter 10:00 to 4:00 except Sunday noon to 4:00
Gunston Hall Plantation, open daily 9:30 to 5:00
Pohick Church, open daily until 4:30
Washington's Grist Mill, hours vary
Each of these is worth visiting and is sketched in these pages. A map of other historic sites in Fairfax County is available free at Sherwood Hall Library.
County office. Further information on County museum, archaeological and restoration services is available from the Resource Management Division at 324-8674.
Virginia Room in the Fairfax City Regional Library maintains an engrossing collection of both state and local historic materials and memorabilia, including genealogical and government records. For location and hours see Libraries*. Direct telephone line 246-2123.
Archives section of the Circuit Court Clerk's office has historical documents dating from 1742 which are available for research and viewing. Call 246-4168.
Historic Properties Rental Service, 324-8674, part of the Park Authority, has nine properties which it is possible to lease for private events. Other properties like Woodlawn Plantation, Gunston Hall and Collingwood also make their facilities available. Costs and reservation requirements vary widely. Enquiries are best made individually.
Home Businesses see Business-Operating
Permits. Home improvement projects generally require permits*. If in doubt, call the Permit Application Center, 222-0801.
Contractors. To learn if homeowners have filed complaints against a contractor ((216**), call the Department of Consumer Affairs, 222-8435. To learn if a contractor is licensed to perform work in Fairfax County ((207**), call the licensing section of the Department of Environmental Management at 324-1540. Don't deal with unlicensed contractors! Have a written contract for the work to be done.
Recordings issued by Fairfax County on building and house construction: (200** provides a menu of these.
Regulations. The Zoning Ordinance regulates the location and size of home improvements such as garages, storage sheds ((217**), decks ((208**), fences ((211**) and other accessory uses and structures. To obtain a copy, see Zoning Ordinance*. For further information, call 222-1082. The covenants of your neighborhood homeowners association may also apply.
Financing. Home improvement loans are offered by all area banks. Most contractors are also familiar with available financing alternatives. For homeowners who are ineligible for commercial loans, a program is offered by the Department of Housing and Community Development. Call 246-5155.
INOVA-Mount Vernon Hospital, 2501 Parkers Lane. Ambulance call 911. Emergency room 664-7111, general information 664-7000, patient information 664-8000.
INOVA-Alexandria Hospital, 4320 Seminary Road, 379-3000. Location is just east of the Seminary Road exit from Shirley Highway (Route 95).
INOVA-Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, 698-1110. Location is just west of the Gallows Road exit from the Beltway (Route 495).
DeWitt Army Hospital, Ft.
Belvoir, Virginia. Ambulance call 911.
Emergency room 805-0518, other hospital information 805-0510.
Walter Reed Army Medical Center, (202) 576-3501.
Bethesda-National Naval Medical Center, (301) 295-5385.