Author: FFXnow.com

Reminder: Schools to Close Early — Fairfax County Public Schools will close three hours early today (Monday) due to potentially severe storms, including the possibility of tornadoes, in the afternoon forecast. All afterschool and evening activities on school grounds have been canceled, and morning preschool and special education classes will be dismissed around 10 a.m. [FFXnow]

Lawsuit Coming Over Chantilly Gas Explosion — “The attorney for an 83-year-old man whose home exploded in Centreville, Va., plans to file a lawsuit against Washington Gas. The explosion forced about 50 residents to evacuate from the neighborhood on Quail Pond Court. The man was injured and displaced after the blast destroyed his home.” [DC News Now]

Emergency Repairs for Potomac Sewer Complete — “D.C. Water has completed the final steps necessary to return flow to the Potomac Interceptor. D.C. Water spokesperson Sherri Lewis said the water flow was restored after a series of tests were carried out by officials early Saturday … The environmental rehabilitation work is still needed, which has begun on the C&O Canal.” [WTOP]

General Assembly Session Highlights — “Virginia lawmakers wrapped up the 2026 General Assembly session in dramatic fashion Saturday evening, adjourning their regular session without a budget deal after an unexpected dispute over data center tax breaks … overshadowed what had otherwise been a consequential session for Democrats,” who control both chambers of the legislature and all three statewide offices. [Virginia Mercury]

Retail Cannabis Bill Heads to Governor — “Virginia lawmakers passed legislation to let people 21 and over buy cannabis recreationally starting Jan. 1, 2027, moving the state closer to ending its yearslong stay in marijuana purgatory.” Gov. Abigail Spanberger is expected to sign the bill, which comes five years after Virginia decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. [VPM News]

Southwest Airlines Leaving Dulles — “Southwest Airlines Co. said Friday it will soon stop operating service to, from or through Dulles International Airport.” The company, which currently provides flights from Dulles to Phoenix and Denver, said it will end service at Dulles and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport starting June 4 as “part of the airline’s ongoing effort ‘refine services.'” [Washington Business Journal]

Falls Church Approves E-Scooter Program — “Falls Church has formally opened its doors to e-scooters. Now it just needs to find some takers. City Council members voted 7-0 on Monday night for a one-year pilot program, hoping to entice companies to deploy up to 100 e-scooters and e-bicycles within the community’s 2.2 square miles.” [ARLnow]

Private-Sector Job Losses a Concern — “Private sector job losses linked to federal reductions and economic uncertainty are a top concern for City of Alexandria and its regional counterparts, according to a presentation” given to the City Council on March 10. “While [Brookings Institute fellow Tracy] Hadden Loh said the region is still adding private jobs in certain subsectors, others have taken a hit.” [ALXnow]

New Legal Notice — Administrative plan available; hearing May 1, 2026; comments invited. [Public Notices]

It’s Monday — Showers and thunderstorms likely, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 5pm. Some of the storms could be severe. Temperatures could reach a high near 72 before dropping to a low around 30 at night. Chance of precipitation is 80%. [NWS]

Falling Tree Behind Fatal GW Parkway Crash — “The GW Parkway was closed in Arlington for hours [yesterday] after a fatal crash caused by a falling tree. The incident happened in rainy weather just after 7:30 a.m., in the southbound lanes of the parkway near Chain Bridge.” [ARLnow]

Former N. Va. Resident Identified as ODU Shooter — “The gunman believed to be behind Thursday’s shooting that left one dead and two wounded at Old Dominion University was Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Sterling resident convicted nine years ago of attempting to provide material support to ISIS.” [Inside NoVA]

Bill Tightens Speed Camera Rules — “Under the pending legislation [patroned by Del. Karrie Delaney], cities and counties would still be allowed to keep the cash they generate from the cameras. But they must use it only on roadway safety initiatives — not to prop up other parts of their budgets.” Cameras would need signs telling drivers how fast they’re going, and they can only operate in construction zones when workers are present. Versions of the bill have passed both chambers and are now being reconciled. [Virginian-Pilot]

Potomac Sewer Line Repair Costs Estimated — “The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments briefed local leaders on the latest repair efforts and costs for the Potomac Interceptor project on Wednesday.” COG Water Program Resources Director Steve Bieber estimates emergency repairs will cost around $30 million, but the cost of more extensive capital projects could total “roughly $600 million over the next ten years.” [DC News Now]

Medical Cannabis Bill Under Negotiation — “A bill moving through the Virginia General Assembly would allow hospital staff to store and administer medical cannabis oil to patients who have a valid medical certification. Virginia already allows certified patients to use medical cannabis, and state law permits its use in nursing homes, hospice facilities and assisted living centers,” but not in hospitals. [WHRO]

Gen Z Reviving Mall Culture — “For some teenagers, the pandemic was the very thing that spurred their interest in the mall. It was a place to go to get out of the house and break the cycle of endlessly scrolling on TikTok or Instagram in favor of having real life experiences. ‘Even if I don’t buy anything, just going out is really fun,’ Pranvi Yarvaneni, 14, told The Journal while out at Tysons Corner Center.” [Wall Street Journal/Daily Mail]

Vienna Names New Deputy Police Chief — After promoting Dan Janickey to chief, the Vienna Police Department has hired David Huchler to serve as its new deputy police chief, a role he previously filled for the Alexandria City Police Department. He also served as chief of police for the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority until this past January. “His service with the Town of Vienna will begin on April 6.” [Town of Vienna]

Earth Day Celebration Volunteers Wanted — “Earth Day Fairfax will be an unforgettable day of fun, education and community. The 2026 event will take place on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston. Earth Day Fairfax is the county’s largest Earth Day celebration, and we are asking for your help. Join us as an Earth Day Fairfax volunteer.” [Fairfax County Park Authority]

It’s Friday — Clouds will thicken throughout the day as temperatures reach a high near 54°F. Expect winds to pick up from the south, ranging from 7 to 22 mph and gusting up to 38 mph. At night, skies will clear, leaving a low temperature around 42°F. [NWS]

Police Increase Impaired Driving Patrols — “Several events throughout March bring increased travel and social gatherings, including college basketball’s March Madness tournament and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. These events can lead to more impaired driving incidents, particularly during evenings and late-night hours when people gather to watch games or attend celebrations.” [FCPD]

Court Rules Felon Disenfranchisement Is Illegal — “On Monday, a federal court reaffirmed a January ruling that found that Virginia’s current practice of disenfranchising all people with felony convictions violates post-Civil War laws that required former Confederate states to guarantee voting rights for newly emancipated Black residents.” [Virginia Mercury]

Fairfax City Sets Tax Rate Ceiling — “Fairfax City homeowners could see their annual real estate bill increase by an average of $633 if the City Council adopts the maximum real estate tax rate it set at its meeting on Tuesday night. The council voted 4-3 to advertise a maximum real estate tax rate of $1.095 per $100 of assessed value for Fiscal Year 2027” — higher than the rate proposed by City Manager Daniel Alexander. [Patch]

N. Va. Impact of DC Minimum Wage Increase Limited — “A ballot measure to substantially increase D.C.’s minimum wage would undoubtedly have major effects on Arlington’s neighbor, but the region-wide impacts are murkier.” George Mason University professor Terry Clower says a proposal to raise D.C.’s minimum wage for tipped workers to $25 per hour “probably won’t mean much for localities like Arlington in the short term.” [ARLnow]

VRE Shares Expansion Plans — “Virginia Railway Express is on track for a big expansion in service by 2030, with its new CEO hoping for a total transformation of the system by 2050.” The train system’s plan for 2050 sets “for adapting to changing travel patterns, maximizing ridership and adding off-peak and weekend service.” [Inside NoVA]

Kings Dominion Nears Start of Season — “With Kings Dominion set to reopen on March 21 and Busch Gardens Williamsburg switching over to its spring celebrations this weekend, it’s time to start planning your next trip. But, before you take a drive down I-95, make sure you know what’s new at both amusement parks.” [Northern Virginia Magazine]

Afghan Women Celebrated in Reston — “On Sunday, March 8, which was International Women’s Day, the Afghanistan Refugee Rescue Organization (ARRO-USA) celebrated Afghan women, acknowledging that their voices need to be heard in all walks of life.” Held at the United Christian Parish in Reston, the event featured speakers, government and nonprofit resources, and an Iftar dinner accompanied by singer Latifa Azizi. [Press release]

Metro Hiring Bus Mechanics — “Metro will host an invitation-only hiring event on Saturday, March 28, for experienced Automotive Service Technicians (Bus Mechanics) … All interested candidates should complete applications online at wmata.com/careers no later than March 26, at 11:59 p.m.” [WMATA]

It’s Thursday — Rain showers will transition to a mix of rain and snow by 2pm, with temperatures dropping to around 40°F. Expect breezy conditions with winds at 14-21 mph and gusts up to 38 mph. Precipitation chances are 90%, but snow accumulation should be minimal. Night will be mostly clear with a low of 33°F. [NWS]

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Assault Weapons Ban Heads to Governor — “Virginia is one step closer to enacting an assault weapons ban. The Senate is sending a bill to Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s (D) desk on Monday that would make it illegal to sell, purchase, import, manufacture or transfer assault weapons in Virginia starting on July 1, 2026, with some exceptions.” [WRIC]

Gambling Commission Push Stalls — “A Virginia Senate committee killed a House bill that would create an independent body to regulate various gambling industries Monday, as state lawmakers seek to corral the sprawling industry.” A separate Senate bill currently being negotiated by members of both General Assembly chambers would instead hand most regulatory authority over gaming to the Virginia Lottery. [VPM Media]

Rarely Seen Bird Spotted in Great Falls Park — “Since a birder named Phil Kenny first discovered a female red-flanked bluetail in a tree just off the Capital Beltway on New Year’s Day, crowds of visitors have flocked to Great Falls Park — where the bird has been living for the past three months — to try to catch a glimpse. Locals young and old, plus bird nerds from as far away as Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, Michigan and Florida have all showed up with binoculars in tow.” [Washington Post]

Va. Could Clear Way for Plug-In Solar Panels — “Bills allowing for portable solar generation devices are nearing the finish line to be sent to the governor’s desk.” Led by Fairfax State Sen. Scott Surovell and Del. Paul Krizek, the bills prevent landlords with “more than four rental dwellings from prohibiting the use of balcony solar panels.” [Virginia Mercury]

Annandale Masonic Lodge for Sale — “The Elmer Timberman Masonic Lodge is selling its building at 6911 Columbia Pike in Annandale. The Masons only use it for monthly meetings. They own the building but they’re finding it hard to keep up with maintenance expenses” after a slowdown in event rentals post-Covid. [Annandale Today]

Vietnamese Eatery Launches at Tysons Galleria — “At his upscale restaurant Moon Rabbit, chef Kevin Tien and his team reimagine Vietnamese food with modern dishes like mochi beignets with fresh eel or green-curry sponge cake. But at his new fast-casual spot, Chao Ban, in Tysons Galleria, Tien is focusing on more familiar staples like pho and banh mi — albeit with some of his usual cheffy twists.” [Washingtonian]

Vienna Steakhouse Aims for Spring Opening — “Electric Bull is slated to open this spring at 176 Maple Ave. West. It began as a basic idea: a neighborhood grill and butcher shop centered on great meat and live fire. Somewhere along the way, that vision attracted an elite group of chefs and partners whose combined experience is helping shape it into something much bigger.” [Northern Virginia Magazine]

Fairfax City Schools Take Cautious Approach to Budget — “City of Fairfax school leaders say they are building a cautious Fiscal Year 2027 budget that preserves student programs and staff support while budgeting for a lower tuition bill than the roughly $77 million figure initially projected by Fairfax County Public Schools.” [Patch]

It’s Wednesday — There’s a 50% chance of rain with partly sunny skies, and a high near 82 degrees. South winds will range from 6 to 11 mph, gusting up to 22 mph. Evening brings a 70% chance of rain, along with cloud cover and a low around 51 degrees. [NWS]

There’s more local news to explore. Check out WSHnow, with stories from around the region.

Statewide Tornado Drill Today — “The 2026 State-Wide Tornado Drill is Tomorrow, March 10th. At 9:45, practice your Tornado Preparedness by getting under a table or desk, going to an interior low-level floor, or bracing and covering your head and neck in an interior hallway.” [Ready Fairfax/X]

Potomac Sewage Spill Could Raise Water Bills — “The battle over who pays for January’s pipe collapse is quickly becoming a regional flashpoint — and DMV residents may not realize they could see the costs show up on their water bills.” Though DC Water is responsible for the repairs, a regional cost-sharing agreement for the 54-mile sewer line would require utilities in Maryland and Fairfax and Loudoun counties to cover part of the estimated $20 million bill. [Axios DC]

Bill Would Allow Lawsuits Over AI Political Ads — “Fairfax Democratic Senator Saddam Salim had hoped to require disclosure on political ads that use artificial intelligence. But a House committee Monday turned his bill into an anti-defamation law that asks courts to quickly review complaints related to allegedly false political ads instead.” [WVTF]

More Leeway Proposed for Rent Payments — “Del. Cia Price (D–Newport News) says legislation that she and other Democrats are behind aims to give renters like Tinsley a little more time to avoid an eviction hearing. HB15 would give tenants 14 days to pay off late rent, not five as in current law, before a landlord can try to evict them.” [VPM Media]

Police Investigating Reston Robbery — The Fairfax County Police Department released a composite sketch yesterday (Monday) of a potential suspect in a robbery that occurred in the Edgewater Townhomes at Reston Town Center on Feb. 16. “The victim reported seeing a man lying on the ground, possibly hurt. When he approached, the suspect jumped up, assaulted him, and stole his credit cards.” [FCPD]

Golf Simulator Maker Boosts Chantilly Presence — “Seoul-based Golfzon is relocating its global business team from South Korea to the U.S. to capitalize on the growing demand for indoor golf experiences stateside in North America and other regions, the company said Monday … Golfzon America CEO Sean Pyun will lead the global business division from 3863 Centerview Drive at Dulles Business Park in Chantilly,” where the company’s U.S. division has been based since 2016. [Washington Business Journal]

N. Va. T-Shirt Company Featured in Oscars Gift Bags — “The 98th Academy Awards are less than one week away, and while not all the nominees will walk away with an Oscar, some of them are guaranteed apparel from a Northern Virginia-based company. Included in this year’s swag-bags given to the nominees will be various clothing items from the Northern Virginia apparel brand Bored Rebel.” [WTOP]

Park Authority Hiring for Summer — “The Fairfax County Park Authority is now hiring hundreds of seasonal team members to support parks, recreation centers, nature centers, historic sites, golf courses and pools across the county … Full job descriptions, qualifications, and details on upcoming open hire sessions can be found online.” [FCPA]

It’s Tuesday — Expect sunny skies and a high near 77, accompanied by calm winds that will shift to the south at 5 to 7 mph later in the afternoon. The night will remain mostly clear, with a low around 61 and a gentle south wind of 3 to 5 mph. [NWS]

Want more local news? Check out our newest sister site, WSHnow, with the latest from across the region.