Greetings Governors Grove!
A few items to note and to be aware of as they relate to our neighborhood activities.

Solicitors/Sales People

There have been solicitors and sales people walking around trying to sell their business and promotions. As many of you may already know, this is illegal as our property is private and marked accordingly. Please be careful of who you open your door to and let in your home. One salesman recently came by my house and tried to sell me on Pest Control spraying. I asked him to leave his business card and any information pamphlets. He stated that he didnt have a business card on him and would drop one by later that day. He then asked if he could have a glass of water as it was a hot day. I informed him there was a 7-11 not far and then asked him why he wasnt prepared with his own water. It immediately caused me concern that someone would solicit and not be carrying those set of papers or supplies. The company to be aware of was called Home Shield Pest Control. I am still trying to determine if that is a legitimate company.
Please be cautious of these types of people everyone -- they may very well be scoping out the area.

Noise Violations- From Fairfax County Police Dept.

Fairfax County residents and businesses are reminded that they must comply with the county’s noise ordinance and are encouraged to report any violations that directly affect them. The ordinance promotes an environment for county citizens that is free from noise that jeopardizes their health or welfare or degrades the quality of life. Specific Prohibitions Under the ordinance, the following acts are violations during the hours noted:

1. Operating loud speakers and amplification devices on the exterior of a building between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
2. Operating construction equipment outdoors between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m.
3. Operating construction equipment outdoors on Sundays and federal holidays between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m.
4. Repairing vehicles or equipment outdoors between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m.
5. Operating powered model vehicles outdoors between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m.
6. Refuse collection in residential neighborhoods between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.
7. Truck loading or unloading outdoors between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.

TV, radio, musical instruments, and animals that howl, bark, meow, or squawk frequently and habitually are declared a noise disturbance any time when plainly audible across property lines or through partitions.

The Fairfax County Code states that violations of the noise ordinance is punishable as a misdemeanor offense. Violators may receive a sentence of imprisonment not exceed 6 months or by a fine not to exceed $1,000.00 or both.

Please be safe and vigilant of what going on around you as it impacts us all in our neighborhood.

Regards, Sharon Voss-Northrop
(GG Neighborhood Watch Lead)

Police Warn Seniors of “Phony” Callers

Several seniors across Fairfax County have been victimized by a phone scam in recent weeks. Thousands of dollars have been lost by these few individuals and many others have nearly lost money.

The scam begins with a phone call from a “grandchild.” The caller tells the senior they have been involved in an accident or arrested for DWI. They plead with the senior to wire money and not tell “mom and dad.” They also say the money cannot be sent directly to them because their wallet is in the car which was impounded. Instead, they ask for the money to be sent to a “friend” or “attorney.” In some cases, another person posing as the “attorney” calls the senior a few minutes later and supports the claims made by the initial caller.

This technique, known as social engineering, is preying on the fact that most seniors will do anything to help a family member. Steps need to be taken to not fall victim of this attack.

If you get a call from anyone asking for immediate money, you need to:

• Verify who the caller is by asking personal questions.
• Be cautious; don’t give personal information.
• Call other family members before sending any money.
• Call the location where the “family member” is being held or treated.

Remember, an unsolicited call does NOT guarantee verification.