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Good afternoon!
Below is the latest edition of our Mason Matters newsletter. Yesterday marked the last day of classes for Fairfax County Public Schools, and I want to take a moment to wish all our students a happy summer! I'd also like to congratulate all our recent high school graduates. I had the pleasure of joining students from Annandale and Justice high schools for their graduation ceremonies last week. You can see photos from those events in our "Bi-Weekly Review" section.
Next week you can expect a special edition of our newsletter as we look back on all we've accomplished together in the last six months. Thank you for all your support, and for all that you do for our community. I look forward to connecting with you in the future. In the meantime, please 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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Important reminder for Edsall Precinct voters:
Edsall precinct voters who normally vote at St. John’s Methodist Church will vote at Poe Middle School (7000 Cindy Ln., Annandale, VA 22003) for the Primary Election on Tuesday, June 18. This is an emergency temporary relocation due to a fire at the church. Edsall voters may receive a polling place notification in the mail in multiple languages. Signage at the church also will direct voters to the temporary precinct on Election Day. Questions can be directed to the Fairfax County Office of Elections by calling 703-222-0776, emailing voting@fairfaxcounty.gov, or visiting fairfaxcounty.gov/elections.
Cast your ballot during Early Voting!
Early Voting is on for the June 18 Primary Election. You can cast your ballot early at one of the multiple EV locations across Fairfax County, but voting times and locations vary. Learn more.
CHECK MY VOTING INFO
VIEW SAMPLE BALLOTS
IN-PERSON EARLY VOTING
VOTING BY MAIL
REMEMBER: ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, JUNE 18! Make sure you’re in line at your correct polling place by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
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Save the Date
Join the Fairfax Library Foundation for a FREE event kicking off the Fairfax Library’s Summer Reading Program! There will be games, crafts, a mini zoo, face painting, food trucks, music, and more! This program encourages young readers to continue their enthusiasm for reading through summer vacation.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 15
WHERE: Woodrow Wilson Library (6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church, VA 22041)
Join the Friends of Green Spring (FROGS) for this FREE, family-friendly concert in the garden. Bring a blanket, lawn chair, and picnic dinner to enjoy on the garden lawn. We hope to see you there!
WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 20
WHERE: Green Spring Gardens (4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312)
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Board Proclamations celebrate diversity, inclusion, and heritage
Mason District is the ‘Cultural Hub’ of Fairfax County. That wouldn’t be possible without the immense contributions from our neighbors who immigrated here and now call this their home. On Tuesday, Supervisor Dalia Palchik (Providence District) and I carried a Proclamation designating June 2024 as Immigrant Heritage Month. We were joined by dozens of folks from organizations dedicating to assisting our immigrant neighbors in Fairfax County and the Northern Virginia region. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the Proclamation!
My Board colleagues and I also recognized Pride Month and Juneteenth, You can view photos from the presentations on the County's flickr page.
If you know a person or organization that should be featured in this section, please email Communications Director Eleanor Rogers at Eleanor.Rogers@fairfaxcounty.gov with the subject line "Celebrating Mason"
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(Left column, top to bottom: Celebrating Annandale High School’s graduation with Music Teacher Annie Ray, School Board Member Rachna Sizemore Heizer, and Delegate Kathy Tran; A fun moment from Justice High School’s graduation ceremony; Touring Annandale’s American Legion Post 1976 with Commander Dorothy Vigano. Right column, top to bottom: Commemorating the life of Kip Germain the Annandale Boys & Girls Club Soccer Festival; Reading “Pete the Cat” to students at Higher Horizons Head Start; Justice High School’s Rowing Team’s end-of-season luncheon)
Co-hosting an Entrepreneurship Workshop with Fairfax County's Economic Development Authority
Mason District's status as Fairfax County's ‘cultural hub’ includes diversity among our small businesses! I was thrilled to co-host an Entrepreneurship 101 Workshop with the Fairfax County EDA earlier this month at the Mason District Government Center. We met lots of folks who are hard at work on their small business ideas. Thank you for everyone who came out! If you’re interested in starting a small business, visit fairfaxcountyeda.org to learn more.
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Mason Works
Information for businesses & job seekers
Upcoming events for entrepreneurs, job seekers, employers, and small business owners:
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Rock your pitch for funding success webinar (Tuesday, June 18 online) - Whether you're a small business or an established organization, this webinar focuses on strategies about development, branding, crafting a winning pitch, and more.
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Government contracting certificates (Thursday, June 20 online) - Learn about ways to complete government contracting certificates to increase your revenue.
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Branding your business for the long-term (Tuesday, June 25 online) - This webinar is for all businesses who want to have successful branding strategies for their long-term business outlook.
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Small business loan basics presentation (Wednesday, June 26 online) - Lean about the types of small business loans, how they work, and how to apply.
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TalentUp info session (Friday, June 28 online) - This jobseeker event will focus on employment opportunities in high-demand fields.
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Accelerate Breakfast Series (Friday, July 19 in McLean) - This series unites entrepreneurs and investors offering a platform to pitch opportunities to local founders. The selected participating companies are seeking seed-stage capital up to $2 million.
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.
Arts Corner
Exciting updates about Mason District arts
Where We Belong art contest celebrates Immigrant Heritage Month
Fairfax County youth are invited to submit art for the Where We Belong art contest! Winners will have their art displayed in a traveling exhibit and will receive a gift card. All submissions are due by Saturday, June 15. Learn more.
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ArtsFairfax grant applications open
ArtsFairfax’s newest grant program, Ticket and Participation Subsidy Grants, will fund free and reduced-price tickets, tuition, and transportation for performances, workshops, classes, and camps for people who may not have regular opportunities to experience the arts. Applicants may request up to $5,000 for activities taking place before Sunday, June 30. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more.
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Things to Do
Events & volunteer opportunities
THIS MONTH: Celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month
Honoring the unique heritage of Fairfax County’s immigrant population and learning more about the diverse backgrounds that enrich our county. Visit Celebrate Fairfax's website throughout the month of June to explore events happening near you!
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Annandale Farmers Market (Thursdays) - Mason District’s local Farmer’s Market is open! Stop by from 8 a.m. to Noon on Thursdays at the Mason District Park.
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Children’s Summer Reading Festival (Saturday, June 15) - Join the Fairfax Library Foundation for free crafts, face painting, a mini zoo, food trucks, and more to kick off the Fairfax County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program! The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 15 at the Woodrow Wilson Library in Falls Church.
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Pride Trivia Night (Monday, June 17) - Test your knowledge of Pride Month history over four rounds of trivia at the George Mason Regional Library.
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Celebrate Juneteenth with the Fairfax County Park Authority (Wednesday, June 19) - The Park Authority commemorates Juneteenth with a series of programs, tours, and lectures around Fairfax County.
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Spotlight by Starlight summer concert series (Wednesday, Friday & Sunday evenings) - This free concert series is hosted at the Mason District Park and features performers from across the globe.
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Providence Players performs ‘Twelve Angry Jurors’ (multiple days, times from June 13-22) - This dramatic “twist and turn” court drama tells the story of twelve jurors charged with the unenviable task of deciding a young man’s fate. Evening and matinee shows are available.
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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 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.
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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.
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Parents Corner
Exciting news & events for families & students
 College financial aid still available for graduates - Clinic to be held in Mason District
Parents and students can get free help completing or correcting FAFSA or VASA financial aid forms at several clinics throughout the summer in Fairfax County. The clinics are hosted by College Access Fairfax and Spanish translation will be available. Both the student and a parent/guardian must attend, and applicants should bring a laptop. Learn more.
WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10
WHERE: Mason District Government Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003)
 Summer Reading Adventure kicks off
Keep your family interested in reading throughout the summer! Earn virtual badges by reading or listening to books, reading for 20-30 minutes, and more. Then visit your local library branch to receive prices for your age group. Learn more.
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
Nominate a Champion of Character
The Stephen A. McLaughlin Fairfax County Champions of Character Awards program honors youth, coaches and parents for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Awards are presented to a male and female athlete, coach and parent in each supervisory district. Nominations are due by Thursday, August 1. Learn 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.
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“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.
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).
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Fairfax Connector introduces major changes for riders starting June 22
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) announced major Fairfax Connector bus services changes starting next weekend. The changes include expanded park and ride options, increased frequency, streamlined bus service routes, and new bus stop locations. Learn more.
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Metro fares to increase July 1
Metro customers will see a 12.5% fare increase, according to a news release. Bus fares and base rail fares will increase from $2 to $2.25. The maximum rail fare will increase from $6 to $6.75. Late-night and weekend fares will rise from a flat $2 to a variable charge between $2.25 and $2.50 based on distance. MetroAccess fares will be capped at $4.50, up from $4. Pass products will also increase. Metro is also equipping bicycle lockers with an hourly rental feature, with a rate of 5 cents an hour, up to $1.00 per day. Parking fees will not change. Learn more.
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Give your feedback: Multiple organizations need public comment for NoVa transportation projects
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Mason District is served by multiple stations of Fairfax County Police Department that include Mason, Franconia, McLean, and West Springfield.
- 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, July 13) - Come by the Mason District Station (6705 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22033) to get your car seat inspected Saturday, July 13 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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Free car seat inspections (Saturday, June 22) - Come by the Franconia District Station (6121 Franconia Rd., Franconia, VA 22310) to get your car seat inspected on Saturday, June 22 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 (Wednesday, June 26) - The Franconia Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will host its meeting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26 at the new Lorton District Police Station (9900 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079). This month's presentation will cover auto theft.
- NOTE: This location has changed due to Early Voting.
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Free car seat inspections (Saturday, June 22) - Come by the McLean District Station (1437 Balls Hill Rd., McLean, VA 22101) to get your car seat inspected on Saturday, June 22 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 (Tuesdays) - Come by the West Springfield Station (6140 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA 22152) to get your car seat inspected from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays. Please call the station at 703-644-7377 and press 0 (zero) to schedule an appointment on those days.
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Passport Fair in Annandale this month
U.S. Senator Mark Warner's office will host a Passport Fair in Annandale this month with the State Department's Washington Passport Agency. Staff will be on-site to help Virginians submit new passport applications and apply for renewals. Appointments are required and capacity is limited. Learn more.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 26
WHERE: Northern Virginia Community College, Ernst Community Cultural Center Gym (8430 Center Dr., Annandale, VA 22003)
Land Development Services
Plan Forward project seeks feedback on land development policies
Fairfax County launched a new project to update its land development policies. Plan Forward focuses specifically on the Policy Plan which is a component of the Comprehensive Plan, the county’s long-term vision for land use. These policies affect important issues like land use, housing, sustainability, transportation, and our quality of life. Learn more at one of the upcoming virtual or in-person info sessions. The survey is available in multiple languages.
Join a local community meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, June 24 at the James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church, VA 22042).
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June Code Compliance Corner posted
This month’s Code Compliance Corner focuses on food trucks including regulation, parking, and restrictions. Learn more.
Land development zoning fees to increase
Starting July 1, Fairfax County will implement updated fee schedules for Land Development Services (LDS) and zoning applications. The adjustments are intended to reflect the increase in costs related to inflation and personnel over recent years while ensuring the continuation of high-quality county services. Learn more.
Request a mosquito inspection
Interested in a yard inspection by one of the Health Department's environmental health team members to help determine the source of your mosquitos? Residents of the Fairfax Health District can request inspections of their property. Learn more.
 Fairfax County may activate its Extreme Heat Response Plan next week
A heat wave is forecasted for next week and staff are closely monitoring the weather. When the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory, excessive heat watch, or excessive heat warning, the county activates its Extreme Heat Response Plan, which includes the following elements:
- Offering space for residents to cool off in an air-conditioned area with water available along with other heat-related supplies. Spaces available include all libraries, Rec Centers, community centers, and human services buildings during operating hours.
- Providing messaging through the county's communications platforms about resources available and preventing heat-related illnesses.
- Sending targeted messages through Fairfax Alerts to unsheltered residents.
- Activating overflow shelter space at the County’s emergency homeless shelters.
- Deploying homeless services outreach staff to check on unsheltered residents and provide them with supplies.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for Fairfax Alerts for the latest information.
Join the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Development and the Fairfax County Party Authority for a Health & Wellness Fair in Annandale. Attendees will participate and learn more about meditation, yoga, dental health, chiropractic health, massage therapy, and more.
WHEN: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 29
WHERE: Eileen Garnett Civic Space (7200 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003)
Upcoming events:
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