2026 November

Features

Celebrating Family Caregivers! 

Every November, we recognize National Family Caregivers Month and honor the individuals who care for, and support loved ones who are aging, ill, or living with disabilities. Family caregivers play a vital role in our communities, often balancing jobs, family responsibilities, and personal commitments while providing daily comfort and care. This month recognizes their dedication, raising awareness about the challenges they face, and connecting them with the resources, support, and appreciation they truly deserve. Read more.

GMU Student Helps Older Adults Stay Safe Online 

Using computers, phones, and the internet is now part of everyday life for most people. But many users have to figure technology out on their own, which is not always easy. This can leave people open to online scams, which are getting more sophisticated and harder to spot thanks to Artificial Intelligence (AI). When GMU student Lakshmi Katrapati learned that an older neighbor lost $30,000 to a scammer who used a deepfake video on Facebook, she decided to take action. She began giving AI literacy and deepfake awareness presentations at local senior centers and living communities to help older adults protect themselves from scams that use this new technology. Read more.

Hospice and Palliative Care Explained 

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, a timely reminder to raise awareness about these types of healthcare and thank the people who provide this vital service in our community. If you or a loved one is living with a serious illness, you may already know about these types of care and understand the differences between the two, but many people only learn about them after a life-changing diagnosis. Learn about hospice and palliative care, how they are similar, and how they differ. Read more.

GrandInvolve Volunteers Help Children Learn

In schools all over Fairfax County, volunteers age 50 and older are stepping up to provide academic support to elementary school students. Called GrandInvolve, the program operates in Title I schools and is designed to close the educational and resource gaps these students face. Learn how this innovative program is changing lives by connecting older adults with children in need of extra support and encouragement in the classroom. Read more.

Mindful Indian Cooking: A Feast for the Senses

Cooking can be much more than preparing a meal. It can be a chance to slow down, focus on the present, engage the senses, and enjoy the creative process. Mindful Indian cooking brings this thoughtful approach into the kitchen while introducing the colorful ingredients, fragrant spices, and richly layered flavors of Indian cuisine. Read more. 
 

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Monthly Columns

Free Screening of Award-Winning Documentary 

(By Willow Mitchener, Department of Family Services)

A daring, 12-day expedition through the Grand Canyon, while deep in the throes of an aggressive, fatal muscle-wasting disease and no longer able to walk unassisted. Facing the Falls is international disability rights advocate Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan’s incredible story of doing just that. 

Join us at the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging 50th Anniversary Celebration on Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. for a free screening of this documentary, and experience for yourself as Cara’s journey to live an extraordinary life and shatter stigma against people living with disabilities unexpectedly becomes a deep dive into fear, trust and vulnerability.

Following the screening, meet the film’s star Cara, as she joins us and shares more about her experience in the Grand Canyon, filming the documentary, and her ongoing advocacy for people with disabilities. 

After the documentary and talkback, make sure to come celebrate 50 Years of Aging Well in Fairfax! The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging celebration continues until 2 p.m. and includes workshops, including fan-favorite Bingocize sessions, flu shots (first-come, first-served), helpful aging resources, community connection, and more!

Event Details

Friday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Fairfax County Government Center (12000 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax)

Let Us Know You’ll Be There

Please submit a pre-registration form to help with event planning and for a quicker check in experience. Each attendee should complete their own registration form. 

Reasonable accommodations provided upon request. For information, call 703-324-6184, TTY 711.

Fairfax Area Commission on Aging

(By Linda Hernandez-Giblin, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging (COA) is an advisory board mandated by the Older Americans Act. Commissioners for the COA are appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the City Councils of the City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church.

At the October 21 COA meeting, the COA discussed the implementation of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and Initiative Development Committees. Department of Family Services (DFS) staff shared more results from the Community Assessment for Older Adults Survey. In addition, the COA heard an update on DFS programs, and updates on the Adult Protective Services program. At the November 18 meeting, the COA will work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and Initiative Development Committees. The SHAPE Committee meetings will be ongoing through the duration of the Plan.

COA Meeting - Wednesday, Nov. 18, 1 p.m.

In Person: Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035 – Room 505 

To learn more about the meeting, obtain meeting materials, or for ADA accommodations visit bit.ly/FXCOA, email Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5859, TTY 711.

Mature Living: Advance Care Planning

(By Fran Guastadisegni, Channel 16)

Have you thought what might happen if a sudden illness or injury leaves you unable to speak for yourself? The time to think about choices for future medical care is now. This ongoing process is called Advance Care Planning. Aaron Zadjel, Manager of Care Connections with Goodwin Hospice and Denise Pitts, Managing Attorney with Legal Services of Northern Virginia, discuss both the general and legal aspects of the Advance Care Planning process. Satoriea Warren, Operations Manager with Neighborhood and Community Services, speaks about her work to raise awareness about this topic, and shares personal stories about the importance of being prepared.

Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 on the following days and times:

• Monday-Friday at 9 a.m.
• Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

Mature Living replays on Channel 16 may be pre-empted by Board of Supervisors, Board of Zoning Appeals, or Planning Commission meetings. Mature Living can also be seen On-Demand anytime.

You can find information on services for older adults at Older Adults Services or call 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday-Friday.

Upcoming Free Classes

(Hosted by Inova ElderLink)

Caring for You, Caring for Me
In-Person Workshop at Inova Prosperity (2740 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax)
Mondays, November 2-30, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
“Caring for You, Caring for Me” is a blend of interactive support and education for caregivers of older adults. This free program focuses on advocacy and care for both the caregiver and care recipient. Participants report increased feelings of confidence and competence in their caregiving role after attending this program. For more information, please call Holly Giovengo 703-324-7642, TTY 711. Register online. 

Financial Planning Considerations in the Caregiver Journey
Virtual Caregiver’s Roundtable 
Tuesday, Nov. 10, 12-1 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.
When stepping into the caregiving role, it’s important to think about the financial impacts it can have. Good financial planning helps you prepare for both short-term needs and long-term goals. Join us for our November support call, where we’ll discuss key financial planning tips for the caregiving journey. Register online or call the Inova ElderLink Intake Line, 703-324-5374.

Exploring the Dimensions of Aging
Virtual Embodied Labs Training Sessions
In these 75 minute facilitated sessions, you will use the Embodied Labs training platform to “see” what it’s like to be an older adult facing real-life challenges. Offered by Inova ElderLink and the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging three session topics are currently available, including two new facilitated sessions for 2026: The Clay Lab (End-of-Life Conversations) and The Beatriz Lab (Alzheimer’s Disease). After the training, attendees receive a license to keep using the Embodied Labs platform to learn more. Register online

• Alzheimer’s Disease (The Beatriz Lab): Friday, Nov. 6, 2-3:15 p.m.
  Embody Beatriz as she goes through the challenges of progressive Alzheimer’s Disease, seeing how it affects her communication, thinking, and emotional well-being, while learning ways to help her feel safe, supported, and maintain a better quality of life.
• Preserving Physical & Psychological Health (Elder Safety and Well-Being Lab): Thursday Nov. 12, 10-11:15 a.m.
  Through a series of 3 unique scenarios, you will embody older adults and care partners who are experiencing challenges related to Caregiver Burnout, Intervention and De-escalation, and Trauma-Informed Care.
• End of Life Conversations (The Clay Lab): Monday, Nov. 16, 10-11:15 a.m.
  Embody Clay as he and his family cope with his terminal illness and move into hospice care, learning how clear and caring communication can help with end-of-life choices and understanding what to expect in his final days. 

Family Councils in Long-Term Care Facilities 

(By Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)

Families of nursing home residents have the right to form and hold regular organized group meetings called a family council. These councils provide families an opportunity to meet privately with other families to discuss and consolidate common concerns about their loved ones, come up with ideas on how to address issues, and present their concerns and ideas to facility staff. Each nursing facility must provide the family council with space to meet privately and must provide a designated staff person responsible for helping and responding to written requests that result from the family council meetings.

Virginia law does not provide specific rights to family councils in assisted living facilities. However, regulations for assisted living facilities do state that a resident council may extend its membership to family members, advocates, friends, and others. If your loved one’s assisted living facility does not have a family council, you could talk to the facility staff about starting one. You can find more information about family councils at the National Consumer Voice website.

As a mandated program under the Older Americans Act, the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) is often called on to assist residents and consumers to advocate for their rights to ensure quality of care and quality of life. For more information about family councils, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711, or email NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Get Involved: Lend a Hand 

(By Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)

November is a time to reflect on the many things we’re grateful for, including the people who give their time and talents to help others. From fixing treasured items to supporting individuals and families, volunteers play an important role in strengthening our community. Explore the opportunities below or find many more.

Fix-It Clinics: Share Your Repair Skills

Fairfax County Public Library’s Fix-It Clinics need handy volunteers who can bring broken treasures back to life—whether it’s clothing, electronics, small appliances, jewelry, or even bicycles. If you enjoy tinkering, repairing, and helping neighbors, you’ll have fun sharing your skills at one of these libraries on Saturday, November 14. Learn more and register.

VITA: Help During Tax Season

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) provides free tax preparation for qualified individuals and families in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Department of Family Services is recruiting volunteers to act as greeters, interpreters, screeners, and tax preparers. No tax training is needed for greeters and interpreters. No prior experience is necessary. Free in-person training is available for screeners and tax preparers. Opportunities are available throughout Fairfax County. Hours are flexible, including evenings and weekends.

Volunteer training begins in early December, and volunteers are needed through mid-April. Learn more and register. Learn more about the VITA program.

Volunteer Solutions: Share Your Time and Talents

Would you like to connect with others and share your skills in the community? Volunteer Solutions seeks volunteers to support older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers.

Senior centers need volunteers to lead fitness, dance, arts and crafts, language classes, and other fun activities. Other opportunities include one-on-one social visits, grocery shopping, and more. Explore the full list of volunteer roles. 

Have questions? Email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5406. Volunteer Solutions is part of the Fairfax County Department of Family Services and works in partnership with the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

Venture into Volunteering: Explore Local Organizations

Did you miss the annual Venture into Volunteering Fair at Springfield Town Center in October? You can still connect with the organizations that participated and learn about their volunteer opportunities.

To explore and learn more, visit the “Participating Organizations” tab on this webpage.

If you wish to advertise volunteer opportunities in future editions, email Tanya.Erway@FairfaxCounty.gov.

Keep Your Heat On: Apply for Energy Assistance

(By Stevie Connor, Department of Family Services)

Don’t go without heat this winter. Whether it’s due to broken equipment or a disconnection notice, the Crisis Assistance program helps eligible households without heat or in imminent danger of being without heat. Crisis Assistance offers assistance with one or more of the following:

• Payment of utility bills and/or security deposits for the primary heat source
• Purchase of primary home heating fuel when the fuel supply is low.
• Repair of inoperable or unsafe heating equipment.
• Replacement of heating equipment for homeowners only (when repair is not possible).

When to apply:

• November 1 through March 16 for heating equipment repair/ purchase/maintenance and a one-time only heat security deposit.
• The first business day in January through March 16 for purchase of home heating fuel and payment of a heat utility bill.

To apply for Crisis Assistance, or food and medical benefits, visit CommonHelp.Virginia.gov or call 855-635-4370. 

Kitchen Fire Safety

(By Community Risk Reduction, Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department)

Many home fires are caused by cooking equipment. Two common contributing factors are unattended cooking and food being left on the stove or in the oven. Reduce the risk of burn injuries and fires in the kitchen by following these safety tips: 

• Remain in the kitchen while cooking. Stand by your pan!
• Set a timer and keep the timer on your person (rather than using the timer built into kitchen appliances) so you can freely move about your home while maintaining awareness. The free clock app on your smart phone has a timer feature.
• Be on alert! If you are tired or have consumed alcohol, do not use the stove or oven.

Combustibles (items that could easily catch fire) being in close proximity to cooking appliances is another common cause of home fires.

• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking. Wear short sleeves or roll up/secure long sleeves by placing a rubber band over the rolled sleeve near your elbow.
• Be mindful of oven mitts and towels being left near open flames and heat sources.
• Turn long pot/pan handles on the stove towards the wall/back of the stove.
• If a fire begins, GET OUT AND STAY OUT. When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. Call 911 as soon as you have exited your home. 

If a grease fire occurs:

• In the oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• On the stovetop, smother the flames by SLIDING a lid from the side onto the pan or pot.
  • Turn off the burner or remove the pan from the heat.
  • Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
  • Check out this video from AARP Answers: See How to Put Out a Grease Fire
• If the fire cannot be contained, GET OUT AND STAY OUT. When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. Call 911 as soon as you have exited your home.

More safety tips:

• Small appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Establish a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet from the stove and areas where hot food or drinks are being prepared. 

Most home fires can be prevented; working smoke alarms save lives! Test your smoke alarms MONTHLY. Contact Fairfax County Fire & Rescue to arrange for free smoke & CO alarm installation (703-246-3801 or email fire.smokealarms@fairfaxcounty.gov). 

For more information, or to book a presentation by a Life Safety Education Specialist, please visit our webpage of Educational Resources or email us at fire.ESW@fairfaxcounty.gov. 

Source: AARP Answers YouTube Channel

Give Seniors Some Love!

(By Evelyn Grieve, Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter)

Adopting a senior pet can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both you and the animal. Here are some great reasons to consider adopting an older pet:

1. Less Training Needed: Senior pets are often already house-trained, know basic commands and have established behaviors. This can save you time and effort versus adopting a younger pet who needs more training.
2. Calm and Gentle Companions: Older pets tend to be calmer and more settled than their younger counterparts, making them great companions for those looking for a relaxed pet. They are often more content with quiet time and less energetic.
3. Gratitude and Bonding: Senior pets often come from difficult situations and adopting them can feel deeply rewarding. They tend to be incredibly grateful for the second chance at a loving home, and you can form a strong bond with them quickly.
4. Immediate Impact: Senior pets are often overlooked in shelters in favor of younger animals. By adopting one, you’re making an immediate difference in their lives. You’re also helping to free up space in shelters for more pets in need.
5. Predictable Personality: With senior pets, what you see is what you get. You can usually tell their temperament, energy levels, and health status upfront, unlike with younger pets who may still be developing their personalities.
6. Saving a Life: Many senior pets are at risk of being euthanized in shelters because they are not sought after. By adopting an older pet, you give them a chance to live out their remaining years in a loving environment.
7. Less Destructive Behavior: Older pets often have less interest in chewing, scratching, or other destructive behaviors that younger pets might display while teething or exploring.
8. Lower Energy Requirements: If you’re looking for a pet that doesn’t require as much physical exercise, senior pets can be ideal. While they still need regular walks and mental stimulation, they generally don’t need as much physical activity as younger pets.
9. It’s a Win for Both of You: Adopting a senior pet often means you're providing them with a loving home during their twilight years, but it can also bring you comfort and joy. Many people find that they can form deep, meaningful connections with older animals, as these pets often crave attention, affection, and companionship.

In short, adopting a senior pet means giving a loving animal a well-deserved second chance. It’s a fulfilling, compassionate choice that benefits both the pet and you! 

Fairfax County Animal Services (The Shelter) has many loving seniors waiting for their forever home. In addition, Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter offers senior pets a $500 medical voucher to Pender Veterinary Centre.

Visit FairfaxCounty.gov/animalservices/adopt to find your new companion.

2026 Holiday Giving Guide

(By Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)

For people who are struggling to meet their basic needs, the holiday season can be a source of dread rather than happiness. You can help relieve some of their burden and spread a little joy by contributing to one of these holiday drives, created to support individuals and families in need. 

DFS Adult and Aging Division’s Holiday Care Package Drive

You can help bring comfort and care to older adults and adults with disabilities by contributing to the Adult and Aging Division’s holiday care package drive, created to support individuals in our community. There are two ways to donate:

• Check out our Amazon wishlist for a list of needed items.
• Visit our website to learn about donating a blanket for the drive.

All donations must arrive by Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026. Learn more or call 703-324-6898 with questions.

DFS Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Holiday Gift Card Drive 

Help families impacted by interpersonal violence get ready for the holiday season. Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Advocacy Services is collecting gift cards (in $25 dollar increments) for Target, Walmart, Giant, Safeway, and similar big-box and grocery stores. To ensure families have enough time to do their holiday shopping, gift cards will be collected until Friday, Dec. 11, 2026. Learn more. 

Gift cards can be dropped off or mailed to:
Daniel Gaona Lopez
Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC)
Pennino Building
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building, Floor 7, Suite 740
Fairfax, VA 22035

DFS Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program 

For 20 years, the Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program has helped children and families who need clothing, food and toys for the holidays. Donations support families who are working with the Fairfax County Department of Family Services. In 2025, 882 donors made the holidays brighter for 1,019 families and 2,096 children. 

The program matches generous donors with families to make their holidays more joyful. If your family, business, company, organization or faith-based group is interested in helping to support a family experiencing difficult times during the holidays, consider Adopting-A-Family. All donations must be received by Friday, Dec. 11, 2026. Learn more about the program.

Fairfax County Police Department’s 13th Annual Holiday Gift Card Drive

The Fairfax County Police Department’s Victim Services Division remains dedicated to supporting child victims and witnesses of domestic and sexual violence, as well as children and families who have lost a loved one to homicide. For many of these children, the financial strain their families experience as a result of crime can make it difficult to enjoy the holiday season. You can help bring a little extra holiday cheer by donating gift cards for Target, Walmart, Amazon, clothing stores, grocery stores, restaurants, and other retailers. Gift cards can be donated Monday, Nov. 9 through Sunday, Dec. 20, 2026. For more information or to learn how to donate, please email Saly.Fayez@FairfaxCounty.gov.

Northern Virginia Family Services Toy Drive

Help families across Northern Virginia have a memorable and hopeful holiday season this year. Donate new toys for children, gift cards for teens, holiday meals, and essentials.

Visit the NVFS website for more information, including a toy wish list. Toys can be dropped off on Friday, Dec. 4, 1-6 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at NVFS Headquarters, 3110 Fairview Park Dr., Falls Church. 

You can also purchase toys from the NVFS Amazon Wishlist or make a monetary donation using their secure portal.

If you have questions about donating, call Lacy Hurst at 571-748-2672 or email lhurst@nvfs.org. 

Volunteers are needed to help unload cars, sort, wrap, and distribute toys and gift cards to families. Call Samara Weinstein at 571-748-2876 or email sweinstein@nvfs.org to volunteer.

Fairfax Circuit Court Releases Free Property Alert Notification System

(By the Fairfax Circuit Court)

The Fairfax Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, in collaboration with the Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration (DTA) and the Department of Information Technology (DIT), has launched the new Fairfax Circuit Court Property Alert Notification System, a free e-alert service available through MyFairfax for Fairfax County and City of Fairfax property owners.

The Fairfax Property Alert System is designed to help property owners stay informed and receive an email alert if any documents are filed on their real estate record with the court. By providing a timely alert, the system provides early detection of potential fraud, including unauthorized deed filings, or other suspicious activity involving real property records.

Key features of the Fairfax Property Alert System include:

• Email alert when a document is filed with Fairfax Circuit Court's Land Records office matching the property owner’s name
• Monitoring for unauthorized transfers or potentially fraudulent activity
• Online access and management through the MyFairfax portal
• Quick, easy, and no-cost enrollment

Additional information, including step-by-step enrollment instructions and FAQs, please visit the Fairfax Circuit Court website.

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Community Calendar

Dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information using the phone numbers or websites provided. To submit an event, email DFSGoldenGazette@FairfaxCounty.gov. All events must be received by the first day of the month prior to the issue month. 

Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia Forum
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 9:30-11 a.m.

Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Join LLI/NOVA for their free monthly forum featuring Chris Pearmund, Owner of Pearmund Cellars, Vint Hill Craft Winery and Effingham Manor Winery. This award-winning Virginia winemaker and educator will share his experiences with the challenges faced by winemakers today. Chris has been president of the Virginia Vineyards Association, first chairman of the Virginia Wine and Food Society, and is a certified wine judge. Learn more at llinova.org or email admin@llinova.org.

Caregiver Cafe: Food, Resources, and Support
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 12:30-2 p.m. (Register online)
Kings Park Library, 9000 Burke Lake Road, Burke

Wednesday, Nov. 18, 6-7:30 p.m. (Register online)
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria

Celebrate National Family Caregivers Month at the library. The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging invites you to an afternoon at the Caregiver Cafe where you will find food, resources, and support. This in-person event supports family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. Enjoy a delicious Panera box lunch provided by AARP, learn about valuable resources available through the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging/Department of Family Services, and connect with other family caregivers. Registration is required. Walk-ins welcome as space allows. 

CarFit
Saturday, Nov. 7, 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Shenandoah University, 44160 Scholar Plaza, Leesburg
CarFit is an educational program developed by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) that ensures that participants have the proper fit inside of their vehicle. During your 20-30-minute appointment, you will receive information and resources from trained experts on how to enhance your safety in the driver’s seat and will be shown how to enhance comfort, safety and fit within your vehicle. Sponsored by Reston Hospital Center. Register online. 

Navigating The Holidays
Saturday Nov. 7, 2-4 p.m.
Haven of Northern Virginia, 4606 Ravensworth Road, Annandale
This workshop is for people grieving a loss during the holiday season. The workshop will be held at Haven. Registration required; please call Haven at 703-941-7000 or email havenofnova@verizon.net.

Red Cross Blood Drive
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Reston Hospital Center, 1850 Town Center Parkway, Reston
Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every two to three seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime. Give the gift of life this Veteran's Day by signing up to donate blood! Please bring your driver’s license or other form of ID and complete your RapidPass prior to your appointment. Register online.

Learning About a Dementia Diagnosis
Thursday, Nov.12, 12-1 p.m.
Hosted by Insight Memory Care Center, this free, virtual information session is for individuals recently diagnosed with dementia and their loved ones. We will explore what dementia is (and isn’t), what to expect early on, the emotional impact of a diagnosis, and practical next steps. Participants will also learn ways to live well with dementia and have time for questions. Learn more and register.

Meet Guest Artist Teresa Oaxaca
Thursday November 12, 7 p.m.
Vienna Art Society Center, 243 Church St. NW, Floor LL, Vienna
Free event hosted by Vienna Art Society. Meet Teresa Oaxaca, a contemporary realist painter, whose work is seen throughout the US and internationally. She was educated at the Florence Academy, Odd Nerdum, Norway, and the Art League of Alexandria. Currently, she teaches workshops around the United States and Europe. For more information, visit viennaartssociety.org.

Fairfax Area Agency on Aging 50th Anniversary Celebration
Friday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax
In honor of the 50th anniversary, Fairfax AAA is hosting a free community celebration and you’re invited! Event highlights include a screening of Facing the Falls, an award-winning documentary short film, workshops, flu shots, CarFit, and helpful aging resources. Register online.

CarFit
Friday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax
CarFit is an educational program developed by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) that ensures that participants have the proper fit inside of their vehicle. During your 20-30-minute appointment, you will receive information and resources from trained experts on how to enhance your safety in the driver’s seat and will be shown how to enhance comfort, safety and fit within your vehicle. Sponsored by Reston Hospital Center. Register online. 

Friends of Centreville Regional Library Fall Book Sale
Friday, Nov. 13, 1-5 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 15, 12-5 p.m.
Centreville Regional Library, 14200 St. Germain Dr., Centreville
Shop for fiction and nonfiction for all ages, DVDs, audiobooks, and more. Bag sale on Sunday – fill a grocery bag with books and DVDs for just $10! No electronic scanners allowed.

Memory Screenings
Monday, November 16, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Insight Memory Care Center offers free, in-person, confidential memory screenings to people with concerns about their memory or who want to check their memory now for future comparison. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a 30-minute appointment.

Friends of Richard Byrd Library Book Sale
Wednesday, Nov. 18-Sunday, Nov. 22
Richard Byrd Library, 7250 Commerce St., Springfield
Preview sale on Wednesday from 2-5 p.m. Entry fee $10 per adult. General sale, Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Bag sale on Sunday, 12-2 p.m., $5/bag. Browse a wide variety of used books, CDs, DVDs, LPs, puzzles, and special gift quality items. Revenue supports library programming. For more details (or to volunteer), email rbfriends@gmail.com.

Santa Who? An Original Holiday Musical!
Saturday and Sunday, Dec 5-6. and Friday-Sunday, Dec. 11-13
Richard J. Ernst Theater, NOVA's Annandale Campus, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Encore Theatrical Arts Project presents its newest original Broadway-style holiday show, Santa Who? a Christmas musical event for all ages! Tickets range from $33-42 with senior and group pricing available. For more information, call 703-222-5511 or visit our website at encore-tap.org.

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*Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. To request reasonable accommodations or to receive this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-7948 or TTY 711.