Fairfax School Street Park Dedicates New Bench

In a heartwarming event, officials from the city of Fairfax came together with members of the Woman’s Club of Fairfax on Oct. 25 to dedicate a bench in School Street Park. This special bench is the only one in this quiet park nestled in a residential area between School Street and University Drive, making it a cherished addition to the community.

Mayor Catherine Read and City Council members Anthony Amos, Rachel McQuillen, and Stacy Hall were on hand to represent the city of Fairfax at the ceremony. It was a touching moment as they gathered together with members of the Woman’s Club of Fairfax to honor their fallen club members.

Janet Jaworski, a member of the Woman’s Club of Fairfax, expressed the sentiment behind the dedication, stating, “We’re dedicating the bench in memory of all our club members who’ve passed away. Our club adopted this park in June 2023 through the Parks and Rec Department’s Adopt-A-Spot program, and since then, we’ve helped maintain it.”

The Woman’s Club of Fairfax, with nearly 50 members, has been a pillar in the community for almost 70 years. President Martha Peacock spoke at the dedication ceremony, emphasizing the club’s commitment to charitable work and community enhancement.

Peacock highlighted the club’s efforts to beautify School Street Park, including planting new plants and adding whimsical features like the painted-rock ‘snake’ named Roxie. The recent addition of a yellow-tulip garden serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in the community.

The new bench, generously provided by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, serves as a permanent tribute to the women who have been part of the club over the past seven decades. A plaque on the bench commemorates those members who have passed away, ensuring that their legacy lives on through the club’s ongoing work.

Overall, the dedication of the bench in School Street Park represents a thoughtful gesture by the Woman’s Club of Fairfax to create a welcoming and serene space for all park visitors to enjoy. It is a reminder of the club’s commitment to community service and a fitting tribute to the women who have made significant contributions to the organization over the years.