Morning Notes

Metro Optimistic Worst Budget Cuts Can Be Avoided — “Metro is likely to escape extreme cuts that would have decimated the region’s public transportation after D.C., Maryland and Virginia leaders vowed to make up nearly half a billion dollars of the transit system’s budget shortfall, Metro officials said Monday. The infusions must still be finalized through votes…over the coming months.” [Washington Post]

Murder Charge Dropped in Hybla Valley Shooting — “D’Mari Norris, a young father, died after he was shot three times outside the Mount Vernon Square Apartment Homes in Fairfax County in late August 2022…In court on Monday, the Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office dismissed the murder charge against the accused killer,” stating that they lacked the evidence to disprove the defendant’s self-defense argument. [NBC4]

Protestors Camp Outside Secretary of State’s Home Near McLean — “Protesters angry over Israel’s assault on Gaza have become a regular presence outside [Antony] Blinken’s residence in Northern Virginia, with some camping out for days in roadside tents. Palestinian flags and handmade signs express their fury at a diplomat who has become the face of President Biden’s policy toward the conflict.” [New York Times]

County Sees Uptick in Opioid Overdoses — “Opioid overdoses in Fairfax County, Virginia, are rising in part because of the cost and accessibility of counterfeit pills that are often laced with fentanyl, county leaders said during a recent committee meeting…There were 404 non-fatal opioid overdoses in the county in 2023, compared to 304 in 2022, according to county data.” [WTOP]

Valentine’s Day Events Coming to County Parks — “The Fairfax County Park Authority has many activities to usher in the big day of adoration. Whether you are into chocolate, animals, do-it-yourself crafts or good ol’ fashion togetherness, love is all around in our parks! Check out these fun activities to enjoy the holiday that commemorates love.” [FCPA]

Chain Saws Stolen in Fairfax City — “City of Fairfax Police released photos taken by a surveillance camera that show a man they say stole two chainsaws from a city business…On Jan. 17, the man in the photos entered the Lowes department store located at 4080 Germantown Road and took two electric chainsaws without paying.” [Patch]

Springfield Gas Station Could Add Convenience Store — “The owner of a Shell station in the Springfield area of Mason District is proposing to add a convenience store and double the number of fuel pumps…The proposal calls for a new 3,982-square-foot convenience store, possibly operated by 7-Eleven.” [Annandale Today]

Vienna Inn Celebrates 64th Anniversary — “Much has changed in Vienna since 1960, but the Vienna Inn remains a mainstay for chili dogs and neighborly camaraderie. In February, the restaurant will celebrate its 64th anniversary with…special menu offerings, kids nights, community fundraisers with Mayor Linda Colbert and other guests, contests, giveaways and more.” [Patch]

It’s Tuesday — Expect sunny skies and a high of around 47 degrees, accompanied by a northeast wind at 7 to 9 mph. In the evening, clear conditions will continue, with the temperature dropping to around 29 degrees, and a north wind at approximately 6 mph. [Weather.gov]