Cherry Blossoms Peak Bloom Predicted — “The cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin are predicted to reach peak bloom from March 29 to April 1, 2026, the National Park Service announced at a National Cherry Blossom Festival press conference on Thursday.” The festival is scheduled to begin on March 20 and continue through April 12 with events across the D.C. region. [Washingtonian]
FCPS Considers Policy to Punish Deepfakes — “A disturbing trend in which some students are using AI to make fake nude images of their classmates is leading Fairfax County School Board members to consider changing the school system’s discipline policy.” Under the proposed policy, students who create the fake images could face a suspension of up to five days with referrals to the superintendent and law enforcement. [NBC4]
Fairfax Station Road Changes Still Pending — More than three years after two teens were killed in a crash on Lee Chapel Road, their families are still waiting to see improvements. Construction on a project to eliminate two hills between Fairfax County Parkway and Ox Road is expected to begin in 2027, and “officials are also working with the Virginia Department of Transportation to install a roadside memorial along the stretch of road.” [WUSA9]
Bill Would Protect Public Education for Immigrants — “Virginia lawmakers are on track to codify a 1982 U.S. Supreme Court decision that protects a child’s right to an education regardless of their immigration or citizenship status. The move comes amid ramped up immigration enforcement, federal policy changes and related legal challenges.” [Virginia Mercury]
Senate Rejects By-Right Housing Bill — “A bill seeking to permit by-right multifamily development in commercial zones was defeated in the Virginia Senate [on Wednesday, March 4] despite limitations proposed by Arlington’s state Sen. Barbara Favola (D-40). The Senate voted 17-22 on HB 816 by Del. Dan Helmer (D-10),” while the House of Delegates sent a companion bill to a committee. [ARLnow]
Va. Could Ease Restaurant Liquor Sales Rule — “Gov. Abigail Spanberger may soon put her pen to one of the most notable changes to Virginia’s liquor license laws in more than three decades. The House of Delegates and Senate both passed legislation last month that would reduce the ratio of food-to-alcohol sales for restaurants in the commonwealth from no less than 45% to at least 30%.” [Washington Business Journal]
Mural Takes Shape on Vacant Annandale Building — “The long-vacant building at 7219 Columbia Pike is in the process of being covered with designs in preparation for painting. Fairfax County land records show Annandale Social LLC is renovating the building to establish a restaurant/carryout. An ABC license for beer, wine, and mixed beverages is pending.” [Annandale Today]
Participants Wanted for Reston Cultural Festival — “The Reston Community Center is preparing for the 25th anniversary of its Multicultural Festival, a signature event that draws thousands to Reston each fall. Applications are currently open for performers, artisans, culturally inspired businesses, and community organizations interested in participating in this milestone celebration.” [Patch]
New Legal Notice — Applicant seeks mixed-beverage restaurant license; objections due within 30 days. [Public Notices]
New Legal Notice — Public hearing on advanced academics center, March 19, 6:45 p.m. [Public Notices]
It’s Friday — Showers may occur after 4pm, with foggy conditions clearing up before 11am. Expect a mostly cloudy sky with a high near 54 degrees and an east wind blowing at 5 to 8 mph. The chance of precipitation stands at 20%. For Friday night, showers could occur after 7pm, and a low temperature around 45 degrees under a mostly cloudy sky with east winds at 5 to 8 mph and a 30% chance of precipitation. [NWS]
