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https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAFAIRFAXCOUNTY/bulletins/399edde
May 2, 2024
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Good evening! This is a busy time of year for folks, so I’ll keep my greetings brief:
First, Mason District’s annual Culmore Community Day is this weekend. This is a free family-friendly event hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority and showcases the best the Culmore community offers. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 4 at the Woodrow Wilson Library in Falls Church. I hope we’ll see you there!
Next, I want to highlight Fairfax County’s upcoming data center info sessions. These virtual community meetings will discuss proposed updates to Fairfax County’s Zoning Ordinance that could impact future data center projects. Two things about this issue stood out to me since taking office in January: one is the nuance surrounding ‘by-right’ land use and how it impacts personal property; the second is the lack of clear, concise information available for residents through media coverage. If you care about data centers, I urge you to go straight to the source and attend one of these info sessions. You can learn more here.
As always, please don’t hesitate to contact my office directly if I can be of assistance. You can contact me at Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-256-7717.
Thank you for subscribing to Mason Matters!
My best,
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 Andres Jimenez
Mason District Supervisor
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 Join us for the Fairfax County Park Authority's annual Culmore Community Day! This event is a multicultural celebration by the global community of the Bailey’s Crossroads and Culmore. The event brings the community together, celebrates the diversity that makes us strong and connects residents with resources. This FREE event will feature live music, food, dancing, live animals, and more!
WHAT: Culmore Community Day
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 4
WHERE: Woodrow Wilson Library (6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church, VA 22041)
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Save the Date
The Entrepreneurship 101 workshop is intended for start-up entrepreneurs who want to launch or grow a business in Fairfax County. Learn about business registration, business and property taxes, financing programs, licensing and certifications, local, state, and federal business resources, and much more. This workshop is FREE and open to folks across Fairfax County. Registration is required and seating is limited.
WHAT: Entrepreneurship 101 Workshop
WHEN: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 30
WHERE: Mason District Government Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003)
Join Mason District Supervisor Andres Jimenez and his Board of Supervisors colleagues at this FREE health fair! The event includes free health screenings, access to community services and resources, fitness classes, hands-on activities, and ‘bite-sized’ learning for all ages. Participants can also explore the trails and playgrounds at Franconia Park and enjoy a ride on the carousel.
WHAT: Healthy Together Fairfax
WHEN: Noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 19
WHERE: Franconia Park (6601 Telegraph Rd., Alexandria, VA 22310)
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It's Small Business Month!
You know by now that we consider Mason District to be Fairfax County's 'cultural hub.' But did you know that we're also considered a hub for small businesses and entrepreneurs?
Here's some quick facts about Mason District:
- Mason District is home to more than 400 permitted food establishments, ranking 2nd of nine magisterial districts
- We have the most retail shopping locations despite having the smallest geographic area
- About 25% of our real estate value in Mason District lies in commercial property, a higher proportion than other districts
Would you like to invite Supervisor Jimenez to tour your small business? Email us at Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov!
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If you know a person or organization that should be featured in this section, please email Communications Director Eleanor Roy at Eleanor.Roy@fairfaxcounty.gov with the subject line "Celebrating Mason"
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(Top row, left to right: Arbor Day tree planting ceremony at Annandale Terrace Elementary School; greeting residents at the New Hope Housing annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. Middle row, far right: Fundraiser for Culmore Clinic celebrating Pay Haynes’s 20th anniversary cancer-free. Bottom row, left to right: Presenting the Korean Community Service Center of Greater Washington with a proclamation celebrating 50 years of service with Chairman McKay; Annandale Green Way steam cleanup; Earth Day Celebration at the Eileen Garnett Civic Space in Annandale.)
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Check out my discussion on climate change with republicEn's "EcoRight Speaks" podcast, a project of George Mason University's Center for Climate Change Communication. We can't tackle the climate emergency from the comfort of our own silos. Issues like extreme heat waves, flooding, and food insecurity affect all of us. That's why it's so important that groups like this bring folks into the conversation about climate change. We chatted about the diversity of voices in climate change communication, how folks can get involved, and our hyper-local approach to climate change mitigation here in Mason District. Listen to the full episode here.
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Mason Works
Information for businesses & job seekers
GrowCon 2024 FREE conference helps small businesses thrive (Thursday, May 9 in Vienna)
This FREE half-day, in-person conference is designed to help small businesses recognize and capitalize on growth opportunities in a competitive market. Learn more.
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NEEDED: Bilingual community members for Election Day workers
The Fairfax County Office of Elections is looking for community members to serve as election officers for the June 18 election. In particular, bilingual officers who speak Korean and Vietnamese are needed. This is a paid position. Learn more.
Upcoming events for entrepreneurs, job seekers, employers, and small business owners:
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KORUS Festival Job Fair (Friday, May 3 through Sunday, May 5 in Annandale) - The KORUS Festival is the largest festival in the DMV area and attracts more than 50,000 visitors over three days.
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Marketing 101 (Wednesday, May 8 online) - Refresh your knowledge on marketing your business.
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Just-in-time career fair at George Mason University (Monday, May 13 in Fairfax) - This event will feature career advice, professional contacts, and employers who have the jobs you want.
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Learn about Latino-led business expansion into Latin America (Tuesday, May 14 in Tysons) - The Exportando a Casa program is seeking Latino-owned businesses with established websites who want to develop stronger e-commerce sales into Latin America.
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Building your value proposition design (Wednesday, May 15 online) - Learn about the step-by-step process of building your Value Proposition Design for startups, early-stage companies, growth, and mature businesses.
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TalentUp Fairfax virtual info session (Wednesday, May 15 online) - TalentUp Fairfax helps businesses find qualified workers for jobs in high-demand fields.
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Entrepreneurship 101 Workshop in Mason (Thursday, May 30 in Annandale) - Learn how to launch or grow a business in Fairfax County.
Are you hiring? Connect with George Mason University students
George Mason University’s Career Services provides you access to well-qualified applicants. Mason students and alumni possess the latest industry knowledge and in-demand transferable and technical skills. Post your job or internship, attend a career fair, or interview students on campus. Learn more.
Things to Do
Events & volunteer opportunities
HAPPENING NOW: Fee waived for Springtime ‘Empty the Shelters’ adoption event
Fairfax County Animal Shelter is waiving adoption fees for all pets through Sunday, May 5 thanks to a partnership with the BISSELL Pet Foundation. The partnership comes at a critical time as the shelter is currently over capacity with dogs, and has many small pets and cats looking for homes. Buttercream and Marshmallow are among those available for adoption! Learn more.
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HAPPENING NOW: Art in Daily Spaces pop-up galleries across Annandale
This hyper-local program transforms local retail and business spaces into temporary art galleries featuring local artists. The event runs through Sunday, May 12 at multiple locations across Annandale. Learn more.
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TOMORROW: KORUS Festival
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and immerse yourself in a three-day cultural extravaganza featuring talent shows, K-pop concerts, live music, and dancing. Other resources will be available along with a job fair. The KORUS Festival is hosted by the Korean American Association of Greater Washington Metropolitan Area. Learn more.
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MORE EVENTS:
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Green Corner
The latest environmental news in Mason
Charge Up Fairfax brings home residential EV chargers
Community associations can apply for assistance getting residential EV charging stations through Charge Up Fairfax. This program offers tech assistance and partial reimbursement and is available to HOAs, condos, clusters, and co-ops. The application period ends June 30. Learn more.
Join a free webinar on Charge Up Fairfax at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 3. Register online.
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Apply to be a Green Business Partner
Fairfax County’s new Green Business Partners program recognizes local businesses that advance climate action through sustainability and contributing to a carbon-neutral economy. Partner businesses will be recognized for their sustainability efforts and get the latest info on clean energy incentives. Learn more.
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Register for Bike to Work Day
Cyclists from across the region will take to the streets on Friday, May 17, as part of the Council of Government’s Washington Area Bicyclist Association’s Bike to Work Day. This event is open to all skill levels and includes dozens of pit stops in Mason District, Fairfax County, and the Greater Metropolitan Washington area. Lots of pit stops will have free giveaways, so be sure to register your spot, plot your route, and learn about the benefits of biking to work. Learn more.
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Free solar panel assessments for Fairfax County residents
Solarize Virginia will host an online webinar for Fairfax County residents interested in switching to solar panels. The program is managed by the nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) and will feature info about Solarize Virginia, benefits of solar energy, and the process of switching to solar.
Join a free webinar on Solarize VA at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7. Register online.
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Parents Corner
Exciting news & events for families & students
Registration open for 24-25 school year
Online registration is open for new and returning (re-enrolling) families to apply for students entering Kindergarten (00) through 12th grade for the 2023-2024 school year and 2024-2025 School year. Learn more.
Give your feedback: Middle school start times
Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring operations for adjusting middle school start times and is seeking feedback from the public. Join one of multiple info sessions that will feature the same information and feedback opportunities. Learn more.
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Environmental Quality Advisory Council seeking student member
The Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) is seeking a student member to join the council for its upcoming term. This student will help EQAC make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for improving and protecting Fairfax County’s environment. Interested high school Sophomores and Juniors are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is Monday, May 6. Learn more.
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Summer Camps
Nominations, contests & more
Sponsorships for children’s literacy
The Fairfax Library Foundation is seeking sponsorships for its annual Children’s Summer Reading Festival. The festival encourages young readers to continue their reading enthusiasm during summer vacation and served a record-breaking 15,000 participants last year. Sponsorship levels range from $125 to $20,000.
Interested sponsors can call 703-324-8300 or email events@fairfaxlibraryfoundation.org.
“Outstanding” Park Authority employee nominations open
Cox Communications is seeking nominations of Fairfax County Park Authority employees in the first-ever “Outstanding Service to the Fairfax County Park System'' campaign. Folks can nominate an employee who shows their love for our incredible natural resources. Five nominees with the strongest or most memorable submissions will be awarded a $1,000 donation to the nonprofit of their choice from Cox and Cox Conserves. Learn more.
Nominate an environmental champion
The call for nominations for the 2024 Environmental Excellence Awards is open. These awards recognize individuals, organizations, businesses and county employees who went above and beyond to support the county’s environment. Nominees’ achievements should have occurred between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, or over a period of years that include a portion of this time frame. Nominations must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on June 9, 2024. Learn more.
Interested in serving on a Board, Authority, or Commission (BAC)?
Interested in serving on a Board, Authority, or Commission (BAC)? Topics range from athletics and health care to ending domestic violence and development. Learn more here and send a resume to Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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Need to report a VDOT issue? The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has an easy way for residents to report road problems. Visit my.vdot.virginia.gov to use their interactive report tool or call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623).
Expect traffic, noise impacts during Idylwood-Falls Church Electric Transmission Maintenance Project
An upcoming project in the area between the Idylwood and Falls Church substations will likely affect traffic. Dominion Energy issued a notice to community members alerting them to the work, which is scheduled to take place now through August. Learn more.
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Public hearing will discuss pedestrian right-of-way
The Board of Supervisors will conduct a public hearing to deliberate proposed amendments to the Fairfax County Code regarding pedestrian right-of-way. The hearing comes ahead of a July 1 change to the Code of Virginia by the General Assembly.
WHEN: 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7
WHERE: Board auditorium of the Fairfax County Government Center (12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035) and streamed live on Channel 16
GIVE TESTIMONY: Learn how online
Give your feedback: Multiple organizations need public comment for NoVa transportation projects
Several organizations are seeking public feedback about transportation projects in and around Mason District. Some of these projects may affect your commute.
- The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) is accepting comments on projects affecting the I-66 Commuter Choice program. The public comment period ends at 5 p.m. on Monday, May 13. Provide feedback.
- The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) is inviting public input on projects in its Six Year Program. The public comment period ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 19. Provide feedback.
- The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) is seeking feedback on transportation projects through its Six-Year Improvement Program.. The public comment period ends on Monday, May 20. Provide feedback.
Safety tips for drivers and cyclists
As temperatures rise, we can expect to see more cyclists and pedestrians in the roadways. The Fairfax County Police Department shared safety tips for drivers and cyclists. Lean more.
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Mason District is served by multiple stations of Fairfax County Police Department that include Mason, Franconia, McLean, and West Springfield.
County-Wide Information
Fairfax County Fire & Rescue annual report
The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department released its 2023 annual report. The report includes statistics broken down by magisterial district, staffing numbers, and more. Read the full report.
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Women's self-defense class is back
The Fairfax County Police Department is hosting its popular women’s self-defense class. The event is open to women and girls ages 13-17 with a parent/guardian and takes place over four evenings at the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy in Chantilly. The event begins Tuesday, May 14. Attendance is required for all four nights. Learn more.
- Mason District Station launched a new quarterly newsletter for folks to stay updated on upcoming events, district news, and crime stats. Sign up here.
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Community Advisory Committee meeting (Monday, May 6) - The Mason Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will host a community engagement meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 6 at the Mason District Station (6705 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22033).
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Free car seat inspection (Saturday, May 18) - Come by the Mason District Station (6705 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22033) to get your car seat inspected Saturday, May 18 from 9:30 a.m. to Noon. No appointment needed. Car seats will be inspected on a first-come, first-served basis. All car seat inspections/installations will be conducted by a certified Child Passenger Safety technician.
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Coffee with a Cop (Monday, May 22) - Bring your friends and family to grab a coffee and chat with officers from your local unit. Officers will be available from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, May 22 at Target (6100 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church, VA 22044).
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Free car seat inspections (Saturday, May 11 & 25) - Come by the Franconia District Station (6121 Franconia Rd., Franconia, VA 22310) to get your car seat inspected on Saturday, May 11 OR May 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. No appointment needed. Car seats will be inspected on a first-come, first-served basis. All car seat inspections/installations will be conducted by a certified Child Passenger Safety technician. Be sure to install the child safety seat yourself so the inspection can be performed. Call the station at 703-922-0889 for questions. Learn more.
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Community Advisory Committee meeting (Thursday, May 9) - The McLean Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will host a community engagement meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 9 at the McLean District Station (1437 Balls Hill Rd., McLean, VA 22101).
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Free car seat inspections (Saturday, May 25) - Come by the McLean District Station (1437 Balls Hill Rd., McLean, VA 22101) to get your car seat inspected on Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. No appointment needed. Car seats will be inspected on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to install the child safety seat yourself beforehand so the inspection can be performed. If necessary, the seat will be properly re-installed and you will be shown how to install the seat properly in the future. Call the station at 703-556-7750 for questions. Learn more.
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Community Advisory Committee meeting (Tuesday, May 7) - The West Springfield Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will host a community engagement meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7 at the West Springfield Station (6140 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA 22152). This month’s guest speaker is from the special weapons and tactics team.
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Scout Night (Wednesday, May 15) - Join West Springfield officers for a hands-on Scout Night! Activities include a virtual station tour, chatting with officers, and checking out a real police cruiser. Each Troop/Den group visit must be arranged ahead of time and is limited to 30 minutes. Slots are available starting at 5:30 p.m. If your older Scouts have specific badge requirements, please contact us to discuss arrangements. Contact either PFC Liam May at 703-277-2357 or MPO Tony Capizzi at 703-277-2363 for scheduling and questions.
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Free car seat inspection (Saturday, May 18) - Come by the West Springfield Station (6140 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA 22152) to get your car seat inspected on Saturday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. No appointment needed. Car seats will be inspected on a first-come, first-served basis. All car seat inspections/installations will be conducted by a certified Child Passenger Safety technician. Be sure to install the child safety seat yourself so the inspection can be performed. For questions, contact MPO Tony Capizzi at 703-277-2363 or Anthony.Capizzi@fairfaxcounty.gov.
- We also have car seat inspections, by appointment, every Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. Please call the station at 703-644-7377 and press 0 (zero) to schedule an appointment on those days.
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Land Development Services
Get details on proposed data center changes (virtual, multiple dates)
Fairfax County’s Department of Planning and Development will host a series of virtual community meetings discussing proposed Zoning Ordinance changes affecting data centers. Each meeting will include the same content and registration is not required. Recordings of the meetings will be made available. Questions or comments can be directed to ffx-data-centers@publicinput.com or to Carmen Bishop at 703-324-1314.
The meetings will be held:
- Thursday, May 2 at 7 p.m
- Monday, May 6 at 7 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 8 at Noon
Visit the Data Centers project website to review the draft text, get meeting details and see additional project information.
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May Code Compliance Corner posted
This month’s Code Compliance Corner post includes info about grass height, info on planting for pollinators, and background info on code compliance investigations. Learn more.
Do I need a permit?
Land Development Services updated its website to include an in-depth guide on permitting requirements for commercial and residential projects. Learn more.
Affordable housing wait list open
Waitlist applications for affordable housing has opened through the Fairfax County Department of Housing and Community Development. The application period ends Sunday, May 5. Learn more.
Give your feedback: Survey for older adults, caregivers, and adults with disabilities
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services is seeking input to help increase awareness of services for older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers. The responses are confidential and the survey takes about 10 minutes to complete. Multiple languages are available. Take the survey.
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Caregiver webinar series
Fairfax County’s Caregiver Support Program offers ongoing webinars and resources for family caregivers of elderly relatives, adults with disabilities, and those with cognitive issues like dementia. See all events online.
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- Annandale Today (April 20, 2024)
- Annandale Today (April 17, 2024)
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