Community Update (5/1/25)
Community Health and Wellness Benefits Fair, May 6
Arlington County’s Aging and Disability Services and Benefits Enrollment Center is hosting a Community Health and Wellness Benefits Fair on Tuesday, May 6 from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Arlington Department of Human Services, 2100 Washington Blvd. Lower Level. See details below.
Senior Housing
VHC is hosting two events (May 9 and June 6) on Senior Housing. The place we call home can significantly impact our safety and comfort as we age. With so many options and resources to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Mark your calendar for two upcoming events focused on bringing the experts to you. See details below.
Dinner at Panjshir Restaurant, May 20
Join us for a family-style Afghani dinner at the Panjshir Restaurant, 114 E. Fairfax Street, Falls Church. Similar to Lunar New Year, this is a fixed-price menu; the cost is $45 per person including tax and tip, drinks are extra. See details below.
Save the Date: ANV Annual Picnic, June 7
ANV’s annual lunch picnic is Saturday, June 7 at the Bluemont Picnic Shelter. Details will be shared in the May 15 newsletter, but for now, mark your calendars!
Planet Word Museum Visit, May 23 at 10am
We were able to get 15 tickets for this tour and will share information on this museum visit with the ANV members that have previously signed up in the May 15 newsletter. Others are welcome to join this tour, but they will need to get their own tickets online at the Planet Word museum.
Real Estate Tax Relief
The Real Estate Tax Relief program provides an exemption and/or deferral of real estate taxes for qualified Arlington homeowners age 65 and older and certain totally and permanently disabled homeowners who have title to the property and meet income, asset and all eligibility requirements. You may qualify for tax relief. For more information, go to https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Topics/Real-Estate/Tax-Payments/Real-Estate-Tax-Relief or call 703-228-1350. The filing deadline is Nov. 15, 2025.
Welcome
New Members
- Scherrone Dunhamn
- Alice Hayes
- David Ratner
- Laura Sullivan
New Volunteers
- Jennifer Chisholm
- Kristin Smith
In Memoriam
Please join us in remembering our ANV friends who have passed away: John Becker, Joanne Gibson, and Nancy Rhoades.
Activities
ANV Events are posted on our online calendar at www.ANVarlington.org/events so you can always easily find the Zoom link for any scheduled event.
Coffee and Conversation on Wednesdays at 10 am
- May 7: Recycle It! Recycle It!
- May 14: Securing Your Phone and Computer
- May 21: Socialization
- May 28: Health Fair
Special Events
Weekly Groups
- Tai Chi
- Bocce and Boules
- Happy Hour
- Board Games
Monthly Groups
- Men’s Lunch Bunch
- Ladies Lunch
- Low Vision Group
- Pop Up Picnic
- Page Turners
Educational Activities
Wellness
Also of Interest
ANV Activities
Coffee and Conversation: Wednesdays at 10 am
This ANV Speaker Series is held each Wednesday from 10:00 – 11:00am. Join our weekly conversations via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88948577106?pwd=eW0rN1RTTU5ITmJ5NnF2QXZINmdUQT09
You also have the option to dial in by phone to participate without video. For that, dial: 929-205-6099. The meeting ID is 889 4857 7106 and the passcode is 872327.
Wednesday, May 7: Recycle It! Recycle It! Spring cleaning is well underway and you now have dried-up paint cans, old computers and broken-down bikes you need to get rid of. Doug Krietemeyer, PMP, LEED Green Associate, Environmental Sustainability Planner with the Arlington Department of Environmental Services will talk about the county’s waste management and recycling programs, including the food scraps collection program, glass recycling, and the proper way to dispose of batteries, and more.
Wednesday, May 14: Securing Your Phone and Computer: Viruses, worms, spyware, trojan horses, etc. The numbers and types of malware are increasing every day, making it more and more important to know how to protect both your computer and phone from malicious attacks. Dr. Diane Murphy, Ph.D., Director, and Senior Faculty Member, at the Center for the Innovative Workforce at Marymount University will tell us what to do to keep ourselves and our computers safe.
Wednesday, May 21: The importance of socialization when aging. Research has found that social support can play a significant role in overall health as people age. Spending time with friends and family members can boost quality of life, including both physical and mental health. Melissa Long, Director of Education and Support at Insight Memory Care will talk to us about the role socializing plays in our overall health and well-being as we age.
Wednesday, May 28: Health Fair. In lieu of our online speaker, please join us to celebrate National Health & Fitness Day (hosted by ANV and others) on Wednesday, May 28 at 11:00am – 1:00pm at the Lubber Run Community Center, 300 N. Park Drive (free parking in the garage). Information and screenings for: Blood Pressure, Vision, Hearing, Falls Risk, Cognitive Screening, Home Care Resources, Fitness Class Demonstrations, Senior Olympics, Vaccinations, Insurance Counseling and Assistance, Mobility Equipment, Community Services and Healthy Food Tastings. Everyone is welcome.
ANV’s YouTube channel
If you miss a Coffee and Conversation speaker, be sure to check out ANV’s YouTube channel where we post some of our Coffee and Conversation speakers and other special events. Sit back and enjoy!
Special Events
Dinner at Panjshir Restaurant, May 20 at 5:30pm
Join us for a family-style Afghani dinner at the Panjshir Restaurant, 114 E. Fairfax Street, Falls Church. Similar to Lunar New Year, this is a fixed-price menu; the cost is $45 per person including tax and tip, drinks are extra. Please bring cash to pay at the door. The menu will include two appetizers, two entrees (chicken and lamb), three vegetables (pumpkin, eggplant and spinach); and dessert. Parking is available onsite. Please RSVP to Office@ANVarlington.org or call 703-509-8057 so we may have an accurate count of attendees.
Panjshir has been serving the flavors of Kabul since 1985. Founded by Aziz Niazy, who arrived in the United States with a dream of sharing Afghan cuisine, Panjshir quickly became known for its authentic, home-style dishes. Today, the restaurant is run by his son, Esmat Niazy, with the kitchen led by Aziz’s daughter, Maria, ensuring that the family’s culinary traditions continue. From kabobs grilled to perfection to dishes that reflect the simple, genuine flavors of Afghan cooking, Panjshir remains a place where you can experience the tastes of a true family legacy.
Planet Word Museum Tour, May 23
We were able to get 15 tickets for this tour and will share information on this museum visit with the ANV members that have previously signed up in the May 15 newsletter. Others are welcome to join this tour, but they will need to get their own tickets online at the museum. The museum is the only one of its type dedicated to renewing and inspiring a love of words and language. Planet Word, opened in 2020, is located in the historic Franklin School at the corner of 13 and K Streets NW in downtown D.C. It is an immersive language experience with interactive galleries and exhibits bringing words and language to life in all sorts of fun ways. Attendees will meet at the museum entrance for a self-guided walking tour. Once inside you can proceed at your own pace. Plan on up to 90 minutes for a good experience. Immigrant Food is located in the museum for lunch afterwards. Planet Word is a private, non-government museum, supported primarily by the generosity of donors.
ANV recommends that participants use metro to access the museum, which is conveniently located at the opposite end of Franklin Park, directly across the street from the McPherson Square station (silver/blue/orange lines) and about two blocks from the Metro Center station (red line). The ANV Office will help participants co-ordinate rides and meeting points at one or more Arlington metro stations.
Weekly Events
For more information on an event or to request transportation for an activity/event, please email Office@ANVarlington.org or call the ANV Office at 703-509-8057.
Tai Chi: Tuesdays at 9:30am
ANV Tai Chi practice meets outdoors every week, weather permitting. Meet the group in the parking lot at Museum of Contemporary Art (formerly Arlington Arts Center) at 3550 Wilson Blvd. If the forecast is too cold or wet, we will meet indoors. If you are interested in joining this practice (not instruction), please contact Anita Wallgren at awallgren@gmail.com or (202) 674-5553 to get the weekly location email.
Bocce and Boules, Mondays at 4:00 pm
Bocce and boules are played every Monday afternoon at 4pm on the courts at the corner of N. Randolph St & N. Glebe Rd (behind the Ballston Quarter parking garage, and across from Harris Teeter). All are welcome and everyone gets to play. Each third Monday of the month, players are invited to go across the street to Harris Teeters for Bocce-Pizza Happy Hour. Whole pizzas are available for $5 (if you are willing to wait for it). There are also many hot and cold options at the food bar. Contact John Thomas for more information at thomas-johnr@comcast.net. If you don’t use email, please call the ANV Office at 703-509-8057 and request a call-back from John.
ANV Board Games Day: May 1 and May 15
Do you like board games? Join ANV members and volunteers for Games Day at Ballston Quarter Food Hall (lower level). Look for players at the tables near the elevators. Play games like Rummikub, Mexican Train Dominoes, Ticket to Ride, Quiddler and more. We play every other Thursday at 2pm. Parking is available in the Ballston Quarter for $1. Contact John Thomas for more information at thomas-johnr@comcast.net. If you don’t use email, please call ANV Office and request a call-back from John.
Happy Hour: Thursdays, 5–7pm
Join the ANV Happy Hour Group. The Happy Hour Group will try locations in the Ballston area. For more information and to know the weekly plan, contact Mike Murtha, Happy Hour Coordinator at dmmurtha@verizon.net. Mike will add you to his email list and let you know the weekly location on Thursday morning. If you don’t use email, please call ANV Office and request a call-back from Mike
Monthly Events
Ladies Lunch, May 9 at noon
The Ladies Lunch will meet at Ramparts Tavern, 1700 Fern St., Alexandria. Ramparts, located in Fairlington Center, is a lively neighborhood pub serving comfort food. Parking is available in the Center. Attendees pay for their own meals by separate check, using cash or credit card. Please RSVP to roslynva@gmail.com so we may have an accurate count. If you don’t use email, please call the ANV Office and request a call-back from Roslyn.
Mens Lunch, May 9 at noon
Come explore Nepalese cooking with the men’s lunch group at Himalayan Wild Yak. This new Nepalese restaurant is located in Ballston at 1010 North Glebe Road. The authentic menu includes momos, the Nepalese version of dumplings and other dishes including yak korma and goat or chicken curries. Vegetarian dishes are also available. Street parking is available on Glebe Road. Attendees pay for their own meals by separate check, using cash or credit card. Please RSVP to Tim Burns at tfxb23@yahoo.com . If you don’t use email, please call the ANV Office and request a call-back from Tim.
Low-vision Group: Monday, May 19 at 1 pm
Do you experience low vision or want to learn more about it? Join us in the conference room at the ANV Office (St. Andrew’s Church, 4000 Lorcom Lane). Participants are invited to share conversation, exchange experiences and useful tips, discuss helpful resources, recommend presentation/ speaker topics, and brainstorm future field trips. Please bring your ideas, experiences, and thoughts to share with others who experience low vision. Beverages and snacks will be served. If you need a ride, please call the ANV Office to place your request. To learn more, contact facilitator (and ANV member/volunteer) Susan Wallace at susanbwallace@gmail.com or 703-241-8686.
Page Turners, May 22 at 11:00am
Please join us to share a book that you have read, and you think would be interesting for other people to read. It can be something you are reading now, or a book you enjoyed in the past. Meet up with your fellow bibliophiles, share opinions, and learn about new books to add to your reading list. See the suggested reading list below.
Join the conversation via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89666785566?pwd=WFFpTlY2SkJMQlJjN0NWNEUraFhEQT09
You also have the option to dial in by phone to participate without video. For that, dial: 301-715-8592. The meeting ID is 896 6678 5566 and the passcode is 007241.
Pop Up Picnic in the Park (PPP) – May 30
May’s Pop-up Picnic will be at Utah Park, located at 3191 S. Utah St in Arlington. There is a gazebo with picnic tables, and parking is free. Bring your lunch and something to drink. PPPs are always held at noon on the last Friday of the month. These popular events are a chance to enjoy fresh air and light conversation and to discover a different Arlington neighborhood park. For information, contact John Thomas at Thomas-johnr@comcast.net.
Educational Activities
Arlington Public Library Programs
The Library has curated events from the 55+ Program, Encore Learning and elsewhere to make it easy to find something that will pique your interest. There are craft programs, book clubs, and more. It’s worth 5 minutes of your time to click on the calendar of events and see what’s happening at your local branch of the library.
Senior Housing
VHC is hosting two events in May and June on Senior Housing. The place we call home can significantly impact our safety and comfort as we age. With so many options and resources to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Mark your calendar for two upcoming events focused on bringing the experts to you. Ask questions, collect information, and think holistically about what “home sweet home” looks like now and in the future.
Senior Housing Resources and Expert Panel (webinar) in partnership with Positive Aging on May 9 at 11am. Registration required.
Senior Housing Fair on June 6 Friday, 11 am – 1 pm at the Lubber Run Community Center, 300 N. Park Drive. Free parking; no registration required.
Wellness
Community Health and Wellness Benefits Fair, May 6
Arlington County’s Aging and Disability Services and Benefits Enrollment Center is hosting a Community Health and Wellness Benefits Fair on Tuesday, May 6 from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Arlington Department of Human Services, 2100 Washington Blvd. Lower Level. The event is for older adults and caregivers to learn about aging services and resources, receive free basic health screenings, enjoy cooking demos, and apply for benefit programs.
Blood Pressure – the silent marker of health, May 23 at 11:00 am
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, puts tens of millions of people at risk for largely preventable conditions – such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure – and premature death. Sometimes referred to as the “silent killer,” high blood pressure can be managed once individuals are aware of their risk. Join VHC Cardiologist Dr. Brian Clark as he discusses the importance of understanding high blood pressure and how it affects your overall health. Register online.
Also of Interest
Cinema on the Plaza: Mamma Mia!
Friday, May 9 at 8 pm
Mason Square Plaza, Arlington Campus, 3351 N Fairfax Dr.
Grab your lawn chairs and picnic blankets and join the neighborhood on the Mason Square Plaza for free outdoor movie nights! Families and friends are welcome.
Super Senior Taxi Discount Program
Sometimes, ANV volunteers are not able to provide a ride. In those instances, please be aware of the Arlington Super Senior Taxi (SST) discount program, a subsidized transportation program for Arlington County residents 70 years of age and over. It is a program that allows seniors to purchase a $20 book of vouchers for half price, at $10. Information regarding the Super Senior Taxi is available online. You will need to complete an application and send it back to: Arlington County AAA, DHS, Super Seniors Taxi, 2100 Washington Blvd., 4th Floor, Arlington VA 22204. For more information, you can call 703-228-1700.
Aging Matters Radio and TV
Aging Matters radio is a weekly podcast, hosted by Cheryl Beversdorf, and features interviews with experts on topics impacting the lives of older adults, their care partners, and families. Every Tuesday at 3 pm, a new Aging Matters broadcast is posted on Apple, Spotify and RedCircle podcast sites. Aging Matters TV Show offers interviews with aging experts, including demonstrations of aging related subjects. Stories of Life programs feature interviews with older adults who have made a difference in their communities.
Free Classical Music – FMMC
The Friday Morning Music Club (FMMC) invites everyone to live classical music concerts the first and second Fridays of the month at Saint George’s Church, 915 N. Oakland St., one block from Virginia Square Metro Station. You can see the musical program here. The one-hour concerts start at noon. Free, no ticket required.
Suggested reading list:
The Heart of Winter by Jonathan Evison (Thriller)
Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (Fiction Family Drama)
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Fantasy)
On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century by Timothy Snyder (NonFiction)
Middle of the Night by Riley Sager (Thriller)
When the World Fell Silent by Donna Alward (Fiction: Historical Romance)
Complimentary membership in Arlington’s 55+ Program is available as an ANV membership benefit. If you haven’t yet opted-in and would like to do so, contact our Member Services Director at 703-509-8057. 55+ Program offerings are posted in the quarterly catalogue available online.
ANV Events are posted on our online calendar so you can always easily find the Zoom link for any scheduled event.
