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.