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Good morning!
I hope this edition of Mason Matters finds you well. We’re excited to share the latest Mason District updates, headlines, and more.
May is Small Business Month and as our social media followers know, we’re traveling around Mason District showcasing several local businesses. If you’d like to invite me to tour your small business, please email us at Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov. We’d love to connect!
In the meantime, please enjoy this edition of Mason Matters. And don’t hesitate to reach out if I can be of any assistance. You can contact me by emailing 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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Mason District precinct to move due to fire
Voters who cast ballots at St. John's United Methodist Church (Precinct 527 Edsall) will report to a different voting location due to a fire. The new location has not been announced by the Fairfax County Office of Elections. We will share more information as it becomes available. Please direct questions to the Office of Elections by calling 703-222-0776 or emailing voting@fairfaxcounty.gov.
 Early Voting is on for the June 18 Primary Election. You can cast your ballot at one of the multiple EV locations across Fairfax County now through Saturday, June 15, but voting times and locations vary. Please note that the Mason District Government Center does not open for Early Voting until Saturday, June 8.
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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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Board recognizes FCPS winter sports champions!
 Last week my BoS colleagues and I recognized all the Fairfax County Public Schools student-athletes who won the Virginia High School League Class 6 championships in their winter sports. Of those five teams and 36 individuals, I want to give a special shout out to the those who are Mason District students:
- Individuals winning the championship:
- Emma Redman, Justice High School, Swim and Dive, Girls 200 Yard Individual Medley
- Justice High School, Swim and Dive, Girls 200 Yard Freestyle Relay
- Emma Redman, Justice High School, Swim and Dive, Girls 100 Yard Breaststroke
- Runners-up:
- Ben Rubin, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Wrestling, 126 pounds.
- Beck Hastings, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Swim and Dive, Boys 200 Yard Freestyle.
- Rem Turatbekov, Thomas Jefferson School for Science and Technology, Swim and Dive, Boys 1 Meter Diving.
- Justice High School, Swim and Dive, Girls 200 Yard Medley Relay.
Congratulations to all the FCPS student-athletes who placed this year! You can see the full list of participants here.
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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I often say Mason District is the cultural hub of Fairfax County, and the past two weekends we proudly hosted three of our biggest cultural showcases of the year! Thank you to everyone who attended the KORUS Festival, Culmore Community Day, and the AAPI Heritage Festival!
Celebrating our community champions with Volunteer Fairfax
Congratulations to Mason District resident Nancy Hall who received the Community Champion Award from Volunteer Fairfax! We’re so lucky to have your commitment and passion here in Mason District. Thank you for all that you do!
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 Hokies capstone focuses on Annandale Green Way
Even though I didn't attend Virginia Tech, the Hokies are always close to my heart! I got to stop by the capstone presentations for students of the Master of Urban and Regional Planning through Virginia Tech - School of Public and International Affairs. Their work on the Annandale Greenway Alliance has been superb. Thank you for all your hard work, and best of luck to the soon-to-be graduates!
Rockin’ in Red with the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta
The Northern Virginia Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta celebrated its 65th anniversary, and I was thrilled to present them with a resolution recognizing all their accomplishments during their Rockin' in Red celebration last weekend. Thank you for all that you do for our communities here in Northern Virginia!
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Mason Works
Information for businesses & job seekers
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:
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
THIS WEEKEND: Green Spring Gardens’s Annual Plant Sale
The popular Annual Spring Garden Day and Big Plant Sale is on for this Saturday, May 18, at Green Spring Gardens in Alexandria. This is a free event that offers plants for experienced green thumbs and new gardeners alike. Learn more.
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MORE EVENTS:
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Green Corner
The latest environmental news in Mason
Greener Mason Advisory Committee to hold first meeting
The Greener Mason Advisory Committee will convene for its introductory meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 30. The meeting will take place at the Mason District Government Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003). The committee is tasked with providing Sup. Andres Jimenez with actionable insights and recommendations to enhance the environmental health and aesthetic of Mason District. This meeting is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend.
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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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 Sunday, June 30. Learn more.
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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.
- Join a free webinar about energy efficiency goals and available funding at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21. Register online.
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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 3 p.m. on Monday, June 3. Register online.
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Parents Corner
Exciting news & events for families & students
Free presentation helps parents talk to kids about drugs and alcohol
A free online presentation will focus on how parents can talk to kids about substance use prevention. The “Talk. They Hear You” presentation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 21. Register online.
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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Register your child
- 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.
- Parents can apply for PreK and Early Head Start programs for income-eligible children ages 6 weeks to 4 years. Learn more.
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 Sunday, June 9. 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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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 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.
- A working group is seeking feedback about parking and transportation needs for Justice High School. The survey takes about 15 minutes and responses are confidential. The survey period closes Friday, May 31. Take the survey.
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Metro is seeking input on its 2025 Better Bus Network. Survey responses are due by 5 p.m. on Monday, July 15. Take the survey.
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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
Mason District Commander receives promotion
Mason District Commander Erin Weeks was promoted last week to the rank of Major! Since Day 1, Major Weeks prioritized showing up for our residents and meeting them where they're at. I look forward to continuing to work with her to ensure the safety of our community. Congratulations, Major Weeks! Read the full list of FCPD promotions.
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Theft prevention tips for construction sites
The Fairfax County Police Department released theft prevention tips for construction sites. 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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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. Learn more.
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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 25) - Come by the Franconia District Station (6121 Franconia Rd., Franconia, VA 22310) to get your car seat inspected on Saturday, 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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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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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 18, 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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Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) (Thursday, May 30) - This lecture will help participants learn about attackers, disaster response, and how to prepare for and respond to being trapped in a building during an active violence event. The event will be held in-person from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 30 at the West Springfield District Station community room (6140 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA). While the training is open to anyone, the material shown may be disturbing.
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Land Development Services
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.
Fairfax County’s Community Services Board provides mental health care services 24/7 for residents of all ages. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available. See a full list of resources here.
Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 703-527-4077
or 9-8-8, or text “CONNECT” to 855-11.
Upcoming events:
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- May 13, 2024 (GazetteLeader)
- May 6, 2024 (Annandale Today)
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