Meeting about Local Schools
A meeting of the Southwestern Regional Planning Study Committee will be held Thursday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m. at Liberty Middle School, 6801 Union Mill Road (just past Centreville High). Two representatives from each of the 23 elementary schools involved in the study will be there to learn about possible changes in the school boundaries and populations. Schools involved include Clifton and Colin Powell elementaries.

Free Carseat Inspections
Certified technicians from the Sully District Police Station will perform free, child safety carseat inspections Thursday, Nov. 5 and Nov. 19, from 5-8:30 p.m., at the station, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly. No appointment is necessary. But residents should install the child safety seats themselves so technicians may properly inspect and adjust them, as needed.
However, because of time constraints, only the first 35 vehicles arriving on each date will be inspected. That way, inspectors may have enough time to properly instruct the caregiver on the proper use of the child seat. Call 703-814-7000, ext. 5140, to confirm dates and times.

Westfield Community Coalition
The Westfield Community Coalition will meet Monday, Nov. 9, at 6 p.m., at Moe’s Southwest Grill, 505 Westone Plaza in Chantilly. For more information, contact Jennifer Cooper at jalcooper@aol.com.

Protection from Holiday Crime
The SALT (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Council is a partnership between senior citizens and law enforcement to inform seniors about crime prevention projects and recruit and train volunteers to work with local law enforcement. The Sully SALT council meets monthly, and the next meeting is slated for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 12:30 p.m., at the Sully Senior Center, 5690 Sully Road in Centreville. The topic is "Protecting Yourself from Crime during the Holidays."

Daylight Savings Time Ends
Daylight Savings Time will end, Sunday, Nov. 1, at 2 a.m. So after Halloween’s festivities, remember to turn clocks, watches and other time-telling devices back one hour. And change the batteries in smoke alarms.

Centreville Farmers Market Ending
Fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, pasta and sauces, meats, wine, honey, soaps, baked goods and coffee are all available at the Centreville farmers market. It’s off Route 29 in Trinity Centre, behind Life Time Fitness, at 5875 Trinity Parkway. Last day of the season is this Friday, Oct. 30, from 3:30-6:30 p.m.

Conflict Resolution Workshop
A Conflict Resolution workshop will be held Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at the Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike in Annandale. Registration is $20 and includes lunch and materials. Any proceeds will benefit Wellspring United Church of Christ’s Immigrant Ministry in Centreville. Pre-register and send questions to Alice Foltz at afoltzva@verizon.net
Leading the workshop will be the Rev. Al Fuertes, who holds a Ph.D in conflict analysis and resolution and teaches a course on conflict, trauma and healing at GMU.
The workshop will offer a more holistic understanding of conflicts, especially within the context of faith communities or congregations. It will also familiarize participants with various interventions, skills and tools.

How To Help WFCM Food Pantry
The Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) food pantry is in great need of food to help serve its many clients in the local community. Especially needed are: Soup, canned meats and tuna, dry pasta, dried beans, oil, pancake mix, syrup, baked beans, Hamburger Helper, canned fruits and beans, and cake and frosting mixes.
Also needed are size 5 diapers and toiletries, as well as flour, sugar, fruit juice, dried beans, hot cereal, coffee, tea, condiments, and canned evaporated and sweetened condensed milk. Items may be brought to the food pantry at 13981 Metrotech Drive (near the Backyard Grill and Bar) in Chantilly.

WFCM Needs Donations, Volunteers
With the downturn in the economy, Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) could use some help meeting its increased demand from local residents for food, clothing and financial aid. To make donations for the food pantry or thrift shop, to volunteer or to receive information on the next free budgeting class, call 703-988-9656.
Needed items in WFCM’s thrift store include: Clothing for all ages, denim, coats and jackets, shoes, jewelry, accessories, seasonal items, furniture, linens, small appliances, books, music, movies, kitchenware, sporting goods and baby items.