Sunday, October 31, 2010

SANTA RAILWAY EXPRESS

All aboard the Santa express



Tickets go on sale for Whistle Stop Hobbie's annual Santa Railway Expresss
(better known as "Santa Train") on MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1 at the store! Take a
holiday train ride with Whistle Stop Hobbies & Hooray 4 Books, and our
special rider --- Santa! This year you and your family will have a choice of
three Mondays in December on the 6th, 13th, or the 20th. You will have to
choose your date when you purchase your ticket. Tickets are $25.00 each
which includes the $15.70 round-trip VRE fare from Old Town Alexandria to
Historic Manassas, goody bags for the children, and treats for all riders!
Take this holiday train ride with Santa and make a memory with your family!


Whistle Stop Hobies
130 S Royal St
Alexandria, VA 22314-3328
(703) 549-4912

November Library Programs

The Alexandria Public Library's beloved children's reading programs have been posted for November and are listed on this blog's Calendar of Events. There are a few new programs and seasonal offerings in addition to the on-going pre-school and toddlers' programs.

Enjoy!

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Swordsmen’s Rendezvous

En garde!

Saturday, November 6 –

Experience this unique living history program at Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St., and learn a skill all 18th -century gentlemen must know – swordplay!

The program includes re-enactment of 18th century swordplay and a display of 18th century weapons. This popular family and Scout event will include some audience participation as you practice your new found talents. Price is $6 per person, ages 5 and up. Tours are from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and last about one hour.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 703.746.4242. For more information, visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Trick or Treat Alternative - Saturday, October 30

Safe Night Out Haunted House 


This alternative to trick or treating offers fun for the whole family. Ghoulish games, freaky fun, frightening food. All ages welcome. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. At Gum Springs Community Center, 8100 Fordson Road, Alexandria. Call 703-360-6088 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/rec.  6 to 9 p.m.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

City of Alexandria Out of School Time Program

Of Interest to Parents in Alexandria City Schools

The Department of Recreation Parks and Cultural Activities is now accepting registrations for the 2010-2011 school year Out of School Time Programs. Program hours begin when school is dismissed until 6 p.m. Out of School Time Programs include the Power–On Program for elementary students from 5 (registered in Kindergarten) to 12 years of age, and the Power-Up Program is for middle school students in grades 6, 7, and 8.  For more information, visit www.alexandriava.gov/recreation.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities to Host “Hallow Scream” on Saturday, October 30


Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities to Host "Hallow Scream" on Saturday, October 30


City of Alexandria middle school students are invited to attend the Annual Saturday Night Hype "Hallow Scream" party on Saturday, October 30 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Nannie J Lee Recreation and Lee Centers, 1108 Jefferson St. The Saturday Night Hype program is designed for middle school age (Grades 6, 7 & 8) children. Admission if $1, and all activities and refreshments are free.


Participants will enjoy age appropriate Halloween activities such as Costume Contest, Fear Factor, Black Light Posters & Crafts, Freaky Fortune Teller, Scary Movies, Creepy Story Telling, Dancing, Music, Games, Pizza and other refreshments. For those who have the nerve, participants can tour the biggest haunted house in the City of Alexandria.


Saturday Night Hype events are monthly theme parties and events designed specifically for teens that provide a supervised Safe Place to interact with their peers. Participants must be City of Alexandria middle school residents with school ID or an official city or school document.


Van transportation will be provided to the King Street Metro from the Lee Center starting at 10 p.m. through 10:30 p.m. for any participant using public transportation.


For additional information on Hallow Scream, other teen programs activities, or to volunteer, visit www.alexandria.gov/12384, or contact Ann Redfearn, Teen Coordinator, at 703.746.5410 or ann.redfearn@alexandriava.gov.

Fairfax County Residents Securely Shred Paper and "E-cycle" on Oct. 23 & 24

Set a Good Recycling Example 

The Fairfax County Solid Waste Management Program will host two free recycling events for county residents during the weekend of Oct. 23 and 24:

  • Saturday, Oct. 23 – Document Shredding/Recycling: Residents may securely shred paper documents from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the North County Governmental Center located at 12000 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Residents may shred up to five boxes of paper documents at no charge. Information stored on film or computer discs will not be accepted. Participants are asked to remove paper from binders and binding and to remove all binder clips, plastic page protectors and rubber bands. All documents will be securely shredded on-site by a private contractor, and the shredded material will be taken to a local recycling facility for processing.
  • Sunday, Oct. 24 - Electric Sunday: This event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the I-95 Landfill Complex located at 9850 Furnace Road in Lorton. Residents may recycle old televisions, computers and peripheral electronics such as speakers, printers, scanners, etc. Also, residents can recycle unbroken fluorescent tubes and light bulbs.
Complete details for these events and other recycling opportunities planned for 2010 can be found on the Fairfax County Solid Waste Management Program’s website or by calling the Recycling InfoLine at 703-324-5052, TTY 711.

Fall Tree Sale - Saturday, October 23

Practice Science and Ecology in Your Own Backyard - Plant a Tree 


Alexandria’s Urban Forestry Steering Committee (UFSC) and the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities will hold its sixth annual tree sale on Saturday, October 23, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mt. Vernon Ave.  The goal of the sale is to promote the preservation of the Alexandria’s tree canopy by encouraging the planting of trees on private property throughout the City. Alexandria Tree Stewards and Master Gardeners will be on site to answer questions about tree selection, planting and care. For more information, visit www.alexandriava.gov/recreation.


Thursday, October 21, 2010

Markoff’s Haunted Forest.

For Teenagers and Those who are 15 at Heart


Quirky entertainers, fire twirlers, DJs, face painters, fortune tellers and live music, bonfires, nighttime zip lines, and food. Also, Markoff’s Haunted Harbor, opening on Oct. 8 and adds a nautical twist to the Markoff's formula of spine-tingling scenes, creepy characters and weird experiences. At National Harbor, Md. Visit www.markoffshauntedharbor.com or www.markoffshauntedforest.com.


 Oct. 1-2; 8-9; 15-16; 21-23; 28-31.

Air & Scare at the National Museum of Air and Space, Udvar-Hazy Center

Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010 2-8 PM
at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center


Discover the spooky side of air and space at the Udvar-Hazy Center’s sixth annual Air & Scare! Arrive in costume for safe indoor trick-or-treating. Participate in creepy crafts, spooky science experiments, and other Halloween-themed activities. Bring the tiniest visitors by the Tot Zone to play dress-up and hear a story. Don’t forget to stop by the face painting station or pose for a photo with your favorite Star Wars character! FREE admission; parking $15 until 7 PM.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Halloween events for all ages

Burke Lake Park Ghost Train Rides Return

Catch a spooky ride on the Ghost Train at Burke Lake Park and be there when the Great Pumpkin arrives to hand out treats! Thrills and chills appropriate for kids are provided by students from Northern Virginia Community College. Costumes are encouraged. Children under age six must have adult supervision. Please leave pets at home. The cost is $4.50 per person; children under two ride free. Rides start at 10 a.m. The last train departs at 5:15 p.m. Ticket sales end at 3:30 p.m. For information, call 703-323-6600.

The Ghost Train will run on the following dates:
  • Saturday, October 23
  • Sunday, October 24
  • Saturday, October 30
  • Sunday, October 31


Halloween Goblin Golf and Bonfire


Come to Lake Accotink Park from 6 to 9 p.m. for this spooktacular event perfect for adults and children of all ages. Dare yourself to venture onto the haunted golf course to play a round of golf with glow in the dark golf balls, ride the spooky carousel, and join in storytelling over a cup of hot chocolate around a beach bonfire. The cost is $7 per person. Costumes are welcome. For information, call 703-569-0285. Saturday, October 30, 2010.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

“Mousequerade” Ball for Kids at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum October 23, 2010

Step into the Past

Get in the Halloween spirit at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum’s Mousequerade Ball for kids! On Saturday, October 23, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum welcomes author Cheryl Barnes who will sign her book,  “Alexander, the Old Town Mouse” and read the story of Alexander and his ball at Gadsby’s Tavern. Then kids can create masks and enjoy a ball of their own, in the very same ballroom where Alexander – and George Washington – danced! 

This hour-long program begins at 1 p.m. and is recommended for kids ages 4 to 7.  Admission is $10 per child (ages 2 and older); adults with child admissions are free. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 703.746.4242 or by purchasing tickets online through the shop at www.gadsbystavern.org.

As America began as a nation during the late 18th century and emerged in the 19th century, Gadsby’s Tavern was the center of social and political life in Alexandria as well as the new Federal City of Washington.  The tavern served as the premier gathering place for residents – including George Washington – and visitors to eat, drink, learn, and influence history.  Tavern keepers John Wise and John Gadsby hosted balls, performances, and meetings, and their accommodations were known as the best by travelers near and far.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is located at 134 North Royal Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria and is owned and operated by the City of Alexandria. For more information, please visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

Monday, October 18, 2010

USA Science and Engineering Festival - Saturday and Sunday, October 23-24, 2010

The Inaugural USA Science & Engineering Festival is the country’s first national science festival and descends on Washington, D.C. on October 23 and 24, 2010. The culmination of the Festival will be a free, two-day Expo on the National Mall and surrounding areas (National Mall 1st-7th streets, Freedom Plaza, Pennsylvania Ave. NW between 12th and 14th streets, Wilson Plaza, Mellon Auditorium and National Museum of Natural History - view map) on October 23 and 24 that will feature over 1500 fun, hands-on science activities and over 75 stage shows and performances on four stages. In addition, several exhibitors will be hosting talks and performances in their exhibit areas. This event is free and open to the public.


As you walk among the booths, you'll find hands-on activities, experiments, and lots of scientists and engineers to talk to. Most hands-on activities will take about 15 minutes to complete. This is not show and tell... it's show and do! There will be all kinds of exhibits, from flight simulators, virtual reality environments and surgical robots to making virus structures with marshmallows and toothpicks. The Expo is not a Science Fair static poster session but rather a dynamic, hands- on, interactive, fun and entertaining set of activities, displays and demonstrations.

Then check out the over 50 stage shows on four different stages. Be amazed by science magicians and nano jugglers, shout and dance with the science cheerleaders, tap your feet to science songs, learn about amphibians, meet the Biggest Looser and much, much more! 

Finish your day by coming to Wilson Plaza on Saturday evening between 7-10pm for a star gazing party with leading astronomers from around the world. Explore our amazing Universe with Celestron, The Astronomy Outreach Foundation and Hofstra University! Get an up close view of Jupiter and four of its moons and gaze in wonder at the craters of Earth’s magnificent Moon and many other exciting planetary objects. Listen to a talk by 17 year old Teen Astronomer, Caroline Moore. Then rest to get ready for a 2nd day of exploration on Sunday!


Expo Hours:

Saturday, October 23, 10am-5:30pm
Sunday, October 24, 10am-5:30pm
On Saturday, plan to stay into the evening for a star gazing event on Wilson Plaza!


Visit for more information:
http://www.usasciencefestival.org/


Friday, October 15, 2010

Volunteer Day at the Library

VOLUNTEER FEST

Three Fairfax County Public Library branches will be participating in Volunteer Fest on Saturday, Oct. 23. Volunteer Fest is a community-wide day of service held in conjunction with National Make a Difference Day. Spend a few hours at any of the branches below and make a difference for the library. This is a great way for students to earn community service hours. To register for any of the projects below, visit Volunteer Fairfax (www.volunteerfairfax.org). Advance registration is required.

The two participating libraries near the Alexandria area of Fairfax County are,

John Marshall Library Fall Library Clean Up, Oct. 23, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Beautify the library both inside and out. Outdoor work includes preparing the gardens for the fall by planting bulbs, spreading much, weeding and picking up trash. Indoor work includes cleaning shelves, furniture and other surfaces as well as finding items that have fallen behind shelves, shifting books and other tasks. (Must be 14 years old or older -- younger is okay with parental supervision.) 

Lorton Library, Library Garden Restoration, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Volunteers will restore the garden originally donated by the Lorton Heritage Society, which, in addition to other plants, contains boxwoods from Gunston Hall and Mount Vernon. Tasks include weeding, pruning, planting and mulching. (Must be 16 years old or older -- younger is okay with parental supervision.)
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Fort Hunt Preschool Fall Festival

Enjoy Autumn with Creativity for Kids 

The air is starting to get cooler, the leaves are changing colors, and fall is in the air. What better way to celebrate the start of autumn by attending Fort Hunt Preschool's annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 17 from 3:00-6:00 pm. Kids of all ages will enjoy riding ponies in a farm-like setting, jumping in the moon bounce, and playing lots of fun games, including hunting for treasure. Your children can explore their creative side through a variety of crafts, including glittery beaded tiaras, sand art necklaces, colorful spin art pictures, and decorating pumpkins. Face painting will also be available to transform them into princesses, animals or any character they can imagine. And, it wouldn't be a Fall Festival without sing-a-longs and storytelling that will entertain all ages. You can even show off your best dance moves to the sound of our accomplished accordion player's polka songs. And bring your appetite with you as we will have popular seasonal food beverages for sale, as well as many delicious homemade baked goods. You may even walk home with half of the proceeds from our raffle. So come to Fort Hunt Preschool's Fall Festival for a relaxing day of autumn fun, games, crafts, food, and drink!

All proceeds from this event will benefit Fort Hunt Preschool, a non-profit, parent-run cooperative. The preschool is located at 1909 Windmill Lane, Alexandria, VA 22307. For more information, contact us at 703-768-7584 or visit our website at http://www.forthuntpreschool.com/.The rain date for this event will be Sunday, November 7, from 2-5pm.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Watershed Clean-Up Day, October 16, 2010

Fairfax County Parks and Recreation Department seeking environmental volunteers

Be part of the International Coastal Cleanup! Individuals, students, families, scouts and other community groups can help clear the earth’s arteries by collecting tires, bed springs, bottles, cans and other debris from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Wear boots and old clothes and bring gloves. Trash bags and appreciation are provided. Pick a site and call to register.


  • Cub Run RECenter, 703-817-9423

  • Frying Pan Farm Park, 703-437-9101

  • Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703-941-1065

  • Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703-451-9588

  • Huntley Meadows Park, 703-768-2525

  • Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-3464

  • Riverbend Visitor Center, 703-759-9018

  • Sully Historic Site, 703-437-1794

  • Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 703-631-0013

  • Friday, October 8, 2010

    Libraries closed for Columbus Day, October 11, 2010

    In honor of Columbus Day, both the Alexandria City and Fairfax County Public Libraries will be closed on October 11, 2010. Make sure you stock up on books for the long weekend. 

    Did you know that you can check out audio books and digital books (for FREE) through Overdrive, the Fairfax County Library's on-line, digital system? Thousands of audio books, eBooks, and digital videos are available including hundreds of children's titles. Download them onto your portable device or view on your computer. Visit the Library web site for more information. 

    Hint: Check out kid's audiobooks before your next car trip and load them onto MP3 players.  You'll get hours of quiet time while reducing kids' screen time. 

    Thursday, October 7, 2010

    City of Alexandria playground renovation updates

    What's up with the playground projects in Old Town?


    James Mulligan Park, 3000 S. 28th St. (Closed for Renovation)
    Construction began in early September and is nearly complete, with an anticipated mid-October completion. All existing equipment has been removed and replaced with new play pieces, including a 360 degree climbing structure, 2 spinner devices, a see saw, and a swing set with toddler and school age seats. A new perimeter border and drainage system have also been completed. Rubber safety surfacing and new benches will be installed early October.

    Stevenson Park, 300 Stultz Rd. (Closed for Renovation)
    Construction started in late September. All existing play equipment has been removed and will be replaced with new swings and a modular structure with climbers, slides, and other unique play elements.  A new four-square court is planned for the old swing area. Other improvements include new benches, refurbishing the open picnic areas, adding a new grill, and completing park-wide tree work. The brush behind the play area was recently cleared for improved visibility. The anticipated completion date is mid-November.

    Tarleton Park - Holmes Run Trail, south of Jenkins St. and Vermont Ave. (Renovation to begin early October)
    The renovation is scheduled to begin early October with a mid November completion. The new Tarleton play area will be relocated north of the existing fenced play area. The new play area is designed for toddlers ages 2-5, includes a train theme play structure, climbing turtle, see saw and toddler swings. The existing equipment will be removed. The play area will be closed during the renovation.

    For more information on these updates, call Judy Lo, Park Planner, at 703.746.5490.

    Wednesday, October 6, 2010

    Did you know that the Alexandria Public Library has its own cable access show?

    STORIES ALIVE ON COMCAST CABLE

    Tune into Alexandria Comcast Cable Channel 69 for children’s stories and songs. Stories are broadcast on  Mondays at 5 pm and Wednesdays at 6 pm.

    Tuesday, October 5, 2010

    Flu shots available soon

    Flu season is coming; be prepared


    The CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated against the flu as soon as the 2010-2011 season vaccine is available, especially people who are at high risk. The Fairfax County Health Department has issued the following recommendations and information. 
    • The 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against three different flu viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus that caused so much illness last season.
    • People who received 2009 H1N1 vaccine should get another flu vaccine this season.
    • All children 6 months through 8 years of age are recommended to receive 2 doses of 2010-11 flu vaccine depending on their flu vaccine history. Ask your health care provider for more information.

    Flu shots are already available in a number of locations. Some doctors offices have the vaccination available. Many local pharmacies, including Walgreens and Safeway, have posted that they have vaccine on hand as well. 





      Sunday, October 3, 2010

      Alexandria City public library October calendar posted

      The City of Alexandria library system has released its October program schedule. The children's events have been posted to the Ft. Hunt Family calendar. Enjoy a bonanza of reading and story events with your children this month.

      Saturday, October 2, 2010

      Local Fire Stations Recognize National Fire Prevention Week

      Area Firefighters Host Events to Raise Community Awareness
      National Fire Prevention Week is October 3 - 9, 2010, and both Fairfax County and the City of Alexandria will hold events to educate the public about firefighters and fire safety.


      Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres.

      For 89 years, Fire Prevention Week has been sponsored by the National Fire Prevention Association and is proclaimed by the President of the United States each year. This is the longest running safety commemoration and is the premier fire safety program of the fire service.



      Friday, October 8 – Memorial Service and Wreath Laying for Fallen Firefighters
      The Alexandria Fire Department will observe National Fire Prevention Week with a Memorial Service and Wreath Laying at 11 a.m. The solemn ceremony is held each year at Ivy Hill Cemetery (2823 King St.) to honor those who have died in the line of duty and to mark the passing of those members of the department who died during the preceding 12 months. During 2010, there was one job-related death of a retiree in the line of duty; six retired members of the department also died during the past year.
      Saturday, October 9 – Open Houses at Fire Stations Throughout the City of Alexandria
      In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week, all Alexandria Fire Stations, with the exception of the Department's Del Ray Fire Station, will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each station will open their doors to the community, host family-oriented activities, and hand out fire prevention educational materials. Fire apparatus and station tours will be also be available. Check out the location of your nearest City fire station, and make plans to attend an open house near you!

      Saturday, October 9 – In an effort to prevent home fires before they start, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department will host Fire Prevention Week Open House, Saturday, October 9, 2010, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at all stations throughout the county. The theme for Fire Prevention Week is, “Smoke Alarms:  A Sound You Can Live With!” 

      Firefighters and paramedics will have displays and activities emphasizing fire safety, including preventing fires and fire injuries, especially in the home. Residents are encouraged to visit a nearby fire and rescue station to participate in the activities and learn more about fire safety. Click here for a list of fire stations in Fairfax County.