|
06.08.2026
Dear Neighbor,
| | |
June is here, and that means it's Pride Month! This is such an important time of year when we come together as a community to celebrate and honor our LGBTQIA+ neighbors, friends, and family members.
I had the pleasure of attending Fairfax City Pride this weekend, and I was blown away by the sheer amount of joy, laughter, and love that filled the room.
While Pride Month is a celebration, it is also about recognition and remembrance. We honor the courage of those who fought for equality before us, and we recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of building a world where everyone can thrive as their true selves.
I'm proud that we've built such a welcoming and supportive environment here in Braddock District, and I'm committed to making sure we continue fostering that spirit of inclusion and love.
| |
I’m very excited to share that the Braddock Nights Summer Concert Series and our Children’s Arts in the Park Series are almost here! We’ll be kicking things off on June 26 in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority and their supporters, and this year’s lineup is bursting with energy and variety!
Get ready for crowd‑favorite tribute bands, the beloved Kings Park Band, one of the last neighborhood bands of its kind. Plus, genres like the blues, rock, and even the vibrant sounds of a live Mariachi band!
We’re also excited to bring back a special treat for our youngest residents! The Children’s Arts in the Park Series will run on Saturday mornings from June 26 through August 21, offering fun, creative, and memorable summer moments for families. Be sure to mark your calendars and check out the full schedule!
| |
This Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend the Lake Accotink Open House alongside former Braddock District Supervisor and now Congressman James Walkinshaw and Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk to hear important updates about the future of one of Braddock District’s most cherished community assets.
During the event, Turgay Dabak and Joni Calmbacher from Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) Stormwater Management Division shared information from the ongoing Sedimentation Study, helping residents better understand the challenges facing the lake and the options being evaluated to address sediment buildup. Alex Burdick from the Fairfax County Park Authority also presented the results of the Dam Study, providing valuable insight into the condition of the dam and considerations for its long-term future.
| |
Thank you to the county staff, subject matter experts, and community members who participated in this important conversation. Lake Accotink is a treasured resource for our residents, and I remain committed to ensuring our community stays informed and engaged as we work together to shape its future.
| As a reminder, Fairfax County Public Schools graduation ceremonies are continuing this week at George Mason University, so please plan ahead and expect heavier traffic on Braddock Road and surrounding roads during graduation events. | |
Finally, I wanted to give a heartfelt thank you to Celebrate Fairfax for their generous support of this year's Braddock Bark event. Their partnership, as well as other partner organizations and agencies, helped make this beloved community gathering a tremendous success, bringing together residents, families, and their four-legged friends for a day of fun, connection, and celebration.
Events like Braddock Bark are only possible because of dedicated community partners who share a commitment to strengthening our neighborhoods and creating memorable experiences for residents of all ages. We are grateful to Celebrate Fairfax for their support and for helping make Braddock Bark another fantastic event for the Braddock District community.
| | Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer | | |
In this issue:
- Rachna in the Community
- Braddock District Office Job Opportunity
- Meet the Newest Braddock District Staff Member
- Welcoming the New Braddock District Interns
- Community Happenings
- Pet Adoption Corner
- Education Updates
- Environment & Parks
- Human Services
- Public Safety
- Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers
- Transportation Updates
| | Girl Scout Invasive Species Clean-Up | |
This weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting with Girl Scout Troop 55033 at Canterbury Woods Elementary School and learning about their impressive efforts to protect our local environment.
The troop organized a cleanup project focused on removing invasive species in the Braddock District, helping to preserve native plants and improve the health of our community’s natural spaces. I was inspired by the Scouts’ dedication, leadership, and commitment to environmental stewardship. Thank you to these outstanding young leaders for making a positive impact in our community and demonstrating the difference that volunteer service can make.
| Third Annual FCPS Summer Extravaganza | |
I had a wonderful time attending the third annual FCPS Summer Extravaganza and seeing the incredible energy of our students, families, educators, and community partners. With more than 1,900 attendees and over 500 students participating, the event featured hands-on STEM activities, interactive learning opportunities, student performances, and valuable resources to help students continue learning throughout the summer.
Thank you to the Fairfax County Public Schools Office of Community Relations, along with the many staff members, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community partners who made this event possible. Your dedication to supporting students and families is inspiring. The Summer Extravaganza is a great example of what we can accomplish when we come together to support educational opportunity, community engagement, and student success. I am grateful to everyone who helped make this event such a success.
| Soldiers of Howrey Field Park Day Memorial Ceremony | |
On Monday, I had the honor of participating in the annual Soldiers of Howrey Field Park Day Memorial Ceremony here in the Braddock District. This solemn event honors six soldiers from Fort Belvoir who lost their lives while serving our community during the Vietnam War era.
On June 1, 1967, members of the 77th Engineer Port Construction Company were assigned to a community service project at Howrey Field in Annandale, helping construct a baseball field for the local Little League. Tragically, the six soldiers perished when a flagpole they were erecting was caught by a gust of wind and came into contact with a high-voltage power line.
While they did not fall in combat, these soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others. Nearly six decades later, their legacy lives on through the park and athletic facilities that generations of families continue to enjoy.
As we remember these six servicemembers, we honor their dedication, their sacrifice, and the lasting impact they made on our community. May we never forget their service and the lives they gave while helping build something that continues to bring people together.
| Meeting with the Cub Scouts | |
I had such a great time meeting with Cub Scout Pack 1965 earlier this week. One of my favorite parts of this job is speaking to the Scouts and Cub Scouts about government, elections and what we do. They truly are the future of Braddock.
We talked about last year’s special elections and the difference between a ranked-choice voting primary and a majority-vote general election. They had such insightful questions and solutions to my "ranked choice pizza" example that I used to explain to them what ranked choice voting is.
I walked them through the different levels of government, what each one does, and how the branches fit together. I also shared more about what the Board of Supervisors does and my role as the Braddock Supervisor. Thank you for having me!
| Braddock District Arts Roundtable | |
Our Braddock District Arts Roundtable brought together a passionate mix of local creatives, educators, and program leaders united by a shared belief in the power of accessible arts in our community. With more than 200 arts initiatives countywide and remarkable talent right here in Braddock, our conversation celebrated the many ways creativity is already flourishing, as well as the unique opportunities waiting to be harvested. Our office is exploring ways to establish a more permanent collective to support and connect creatives of every shape and form. Stay curious, stay local!
| Moo Thru Now Serving Ice Cream at New Location in Burke | |
I stopped by the new Moo Thru Burke location in Burke this week and was excited to welcome another local business to the Braddock District! It's great to see Burke Town Center continue to grow, and I encourage everyone to stop by, support this new addition to our community, and enjoy a scoop (or two) this summer.
Now open at Burke Town Center (6025H Burke Centre Parkway).
| |
Braddock District Office
Job Opportunity
| Join the Braddock District Team: Staff Aide – Communications and Policy | |
The Braddock District Office is seeking a motivated, creative, and community-focused individual to join our team as a Staff Aide for Communications and Policy. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of public policy, constituent services, communications, and local government.
Applications are due by June 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their education, experience, and availability to braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov with "Staff Aide – Communications and Policy" in the subject line.
Full details on the Fairfax County Job Page.
| Meet The Newest Braddock District Staff Member | |
I'm pleased to introduce Ethan Mitchell, who is joining our office as our new Junior Legislative Aide. A lifelong Braddock District resident, Ethan was born, raised, and continues to live in the district while completing his final semester at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. Ethan brings valuable experience from his service as a Field Organizer on Congressman James Walkinshaw’s campaign, as a Congressional Intern in Congressman Walkinshaw’s Washington, D.C. Office, and most recently as a Braddock District Intern in our office this spring. During his internship, Ethan demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving our community. I am excited to welcome him to the Braddock District Team and look forward to the contributions he will make in this new role.
| Meet The New Braddock District Interns | |
Alyssa joins us from California, having graduated from UC San Diego with a degree in Urban Planning. Her experience includes serving as the Planning Management Intern for National City’s Planning Division, where she evaluated zoning compliance and researched data-informed policy recommendations. Alyssa is dedicated to supporting local communities and applying her skillset towards Team Braddock’s mission!
| |
Gabby is a proud Braddock District local who grew up in the community, attending Terra Centre Elementary School and Robinson Secondary. She is now a rising junior at George Mason University, where she studies Government and International Politics. Most recently, she served as a District Office Intern for Congressman James Walkinshaw, gaining hands-on experience in event planning and constituent services. Gabby is excited to bring these skills and her deep connection to the community to the Braddock District team!
| | Braddock District Battle of the Bands Announcement | |
We are excited to present Battle of the Bands 2026 – an opportunity to celebrate and promote rising musicians in Fairfax County!
Battle of the Bands will feature in two shows at Lake Accotink Park:
-
August 14, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. – Six Bands
-
August 21, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. – Final Three Bands
More details, submission form, and prize information to be available soon!
Eligibility - groups must include:
- at least two members
- at least one vocalist
- at least one member who plays a musical instrument, and
- preference: a majority of members whose residence is in Fairfax County
Musical selection: All genres welcome. Each group must submit two recorded tracks for review. Although cover songs are permitted, priority will be given to original music.
Tracks can be recorded live or in studio. Submissions will be accepted via .mp3, .mp4, link to publicly posted music website, or YouTube video (best format for selection purposes).
Submission deadline will be July 15, 2026. All questions should be directed to braddockevents@fairfaxcounty.gov.
| Marian Homes Free Document Shredding Event | | |
Looking for a safe and convenient way to dispose of sensitive documents? Marian Homes invites community members to attend a Free Paper Shredding Event on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church in Fairfax.
This event is open to everyone and provides an opportunity to securely shred old paperwork, financial records, and other confidential documents to help protect against identity theft and fraud. While the event is free to attend, donations are graciously accepted. Contributions help support Marian Homes and its ongoing efforts to serve members of our community.
| |
The Golden Gazette Goes Digital | |
The Golden Gazette is going digital. This free monthly community newsletter covers a variety of topics concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. July 2026 will be the last printed issue—but sign up for the email version today!
Subscribe to the Golden Gazette
| The 51st Annual Sully Antique Car Show Rolls Into History | |
Shine up the chrome, grab the family and cruise into Father’s Day at the 51st Annual Sully Antique Car Show on Sunday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Sully Historic Site.
Explore hundreds of antique and classic cars; see judging and awards throughout the day; and enjoy restoration and specialty car displays, live music, food vendors, children’s activities, a kids’ tent and opportunities to explore Sully’s history.
New this year: Car owners can register online for faster, easier event entry.
Online tickets are available through June 19: $12 for adults ages 16-64, $10 for seniors ages 65 and older and $8 for children ages 15 and younger.
Day-of tickets are available at the gate: $15 for adults ages 16-64, $12 for seniors ages 65 and older and $10 for children ages 15 and younger.
| ArtsFairfax Accepting Applications for FY27 Project Support Grant | | |
ArtsFairfax Project Support Grants support projects by Fairfax-based arts organizations that take place in Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church. Project Support Grants are awarded in four grant subcategories, including Arts in Education, Opportunity, Partnerships, and Arts Access.
Organizations based in Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church may be eligible to apply. Visit the ArtsFairfax website for details. Please contact grants@artsfairfax.org for additional information.
Application Deadline: July 15, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
| | |
Library Events
Come and partake in the wonderful activities taking place in the Kings Park and Burke Centre Libraries this week.
A full listing of library activities throughout Fairfax County may be found on the Library Calendar.
| | Tangled Tuesdays: Drop-In Knitting and Crochet | | |
Knit and crochet with a friendly group of strangers on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at Kings Park Library. Maybe you're a fiber enthusiast wanting to find your people, or a newbie trying to get started. All skill levels are welcome to this drop-in fiber craft night.
Bring that project you've been meaning to finish, or use provided supplies to start something new. Are you stuck on a stitch, or having trouble with a pattern? Their friendly volunteer can help you troubleshoot your problem and give advice.
Date: Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Kings Park Conference Room
Audience: Adults, Older Adults
Tangled Tuesdays : Drop-In Knitting and Crochet - Fairfax Library Calendar - Library Home
| | |
Calling all home gardeners! Drop-in for horticultural tips, information, techniques and advice from the Fairfax County Master Gardeners.
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Kings Park Conference Room
Plant Clinic - Fairfax Library Calendar - Library Home
| |
A variety of toys and books will be spread out for you and your little one to enjoy. Enrich your child through play and socializing, and enjoy socializing with other parents and caregivers in a welcoming environment.
Ages 0-5.
Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
Time: 10:15am - 11:00am
Location: Burke Centre Meeting Room 116, Burke Centre Meeting Room 117
Library Playdate - Fairfax Library Calendar - Library Home
| | |
Help your child build confidence and strengthen their reading skills at Burke Centre Library’s “Read to the Dog” program featuring Asiago, a gentle therapy dog who loves listening to stories! On Thursday, June 11, children ages 5–12 are invited to practice reading aloud in a fun, relaxed, and judgment-free environment alongside their caregiver. Readers can bring a favorite book or choose one from the library to share during their session. In-person sign-ups begin at 3:30 p.m. on the day of the event, and sessions are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026
Time: 4:00pm - 4:15pm
Location: Burke Centre Meeting Room 116, Burke Centre Meeting Room 117
Read to the Dog - Asiago - Fairfax Library Calendar - Library Home
| | STEAM Team - Color Adventure | | |
Have fun with colors! Take a colorful STEAM adventure as we explore the magic of the rainbow with a special guest! You'll be able to experiment with mixing colors, make exciting discoveries, and learn how different hues come together to create the vibrant spectrum we see every day. This program was inspired by America 250 Voices of Pride and Progress in the month of June. Children's library books on the topics of Pride and Progress will be available for check out during the program.
Ages 6-14 years.
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 10:30am - 11:30am
Location: Burke Centre Meeting Room 116, Burke Centre Meeting Room 117
STEAM Team - Color Adventure - Fairfax Library Calendar - Library Home
| Fairfax Library Foundation’s 4th annual Children’s Summer Reading Festival | |
Come one, come all, to the annual FREE event to kick off Fairfax County Public Library’s summer reading program! Fairfax Library Foundation’s 4th annual Children’s Summer Reading Festival is designed to encourage young readers to continue their enthusiasm for reading straight into summer vacation. There will be games and crafts, bounce houses, snacks, facepainting, food trucks, a photobooth, a D.J., a petting zoo, live entertainment, and of course, books!
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Fairfax County Government Center
1200 Government Center Pkwy. Fairfax VA, 22015
Tickets and Information
| | |
Oliver is a sweet and adventurous senior boy looking for a new home to spend his golden years. As many of us know, aging comes with a few bumps in the road, and Oliver is no exception. He will need a family prepared to help him manage his health and continue to age gracefully. This gentle, cuddly fellow is an expert at lap-quality testing, and his sunbeam-locating skills are unparallelled. Come on in and meet him today!
Be sure to check the "shelter information" box on the listing to see if the pet is located at the Michael R. Frey Campus (4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Road, Lorton). Then, come in during our open hours! Both of the Fairfax County Animal Services locations are open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 12-5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 12-7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on our adoption process, including requirements and fees, visit the Animal Shelter Website.
| | Free Student Bus Pass Program | |
As the school year wraps up in Fairfax County, don’t forget to grab your free Student Bus Pass. Learn more. It’s a great way to get around this summer. All middle and high school students in Fairfax County are eligible.
The free student bus pass SmarTrip card permits students to ride Fairfax Connector or City of Fairfax CUE buses for free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week, all year. All other times you will need cash or a standard SmarTrip® card.
| FCPS Adult and Community Education Announces Expanded Skilled Trades Scholarship Opportunities for Fall 2026 | |
FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) is expanding opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the skilled trades by offering $40,000 in scholarship funding for Fall 2026 apprenticeship programs in Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC. Supported by the ACE Foundation and private donors, the initiative will provide $1,000 scholarships that are applied directly toward tuition for approved FCPS ACE trade courses. The scholarship application period runs from June 15 through August 15, 2026.
The program reflects Fairfax County’s continued investment in workforce development and increasing access to high-demand career pathways. According to FCPS ACE Administrator Paul Steiner, the scholarships are designed to help students gain valuable, career-focused skills while strengthening the local workforce. Educational Career Counselor Bob Sargent emphasized that financial barriers should not prevent students from pursuing education that can lead to stable, well-paying careers, noting that the scholarship process is intentionally simple, accessible, and based on trust rather than extensive financial documentation.
Historically offered twice each year, the Trade Initiative Scholarships have already helped dozens of students begin or continue their training, with 31 students receiving awards during the previous cycle alone. Scholarships are also repeatable, allowing students to seek additional support as they advance through higher-level coursework. Students interested in applying can learn more at the FCPS ACE scholarship webpage, and community members interested in supporting future students can contribute through the ACE Foundation donation portal.
| Apply for Congressman Walkinshaw's Youth Leadership Council | |
Applications are now open for Virginia’s 11th District 2026 Youth Leadership Council!
This is an opportunity for high school students in grades 9–12 across VA-11 to join the Congressman and his team for conversations about leadership, public service, and the issues shaping their lives and communities.
For details and to apply by June 30, visit Rep. Walkinshaw's website.
| | |
You may have noticed that the elusive and invasive Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) has been making its return to Northern Virginia. In order to help you start preparing, here are some tips on what to do if you see a Spotted Lanternfly.
Reporting
If you come across an infestation of Spotted Lanternflies, it is recommended that you report your findings through the mobile app iNaturalist.
Management Options
If you find egg masses, smash all the eggs completely, or scrape them into a small container or baggy of soapy water or alcohol that you can empty into the trash or bury later
If you find nymphs or adults, smash them, or vacuum them up with a shop vac to be smashed later.
If they are largely feeding on a particular tree, you can put a circle trap or a sticky band on it if you want. Using sticky bands is not largely recommended however, because a myriad of spiders, native insects and even small frogs, lizards, and birds can become stuck despite protective netting and wire mesh guards.
For more information on how to build a Circle Trap, you can visit this article from Penn State Researchers that gives you a step-by-step guide: How to Build a Spotted Lanternfly Circle Trap
In order to prevent future Spotted Lanternfly infestations, it is recommended that you remove the tree-of-heaven if possible. They attract SLF resulting in heavy infestations with a messy build-up of honeydew underneath. Destroy any SLF life stages on them.
The Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Services has a detailed Management Plan and prevention tips on their website, which we have linked here: Spotted Lanternfly | Public Works and Environmental Services
|
Environmental Justice Summit Set for June 16
| |
Join the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition, along with policymakers, community leaders, and industry experts, for a dynamic Environmental Justice Forum focused on tackling long-standing inequities in transportation, energy, and environmental policy. The free event is June 16 from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Armour J. Blackburn Auditorium on Howard University’s campus in Washington DC.
Register here:
GWRCCC 3rd Annual Environmental Justice Summit Tickets, Tuesday, June 16 • 10 AM - 1 PM | Eventbrite
| Celebrate Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week with Events and Volunteer Opportunities | |
Join in the celebration from June 6-14, 2026, for Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week! This annual event recognizes the cultures, history and natural beauty of the nation's largest estuary. The week will include online and in-person events, as well as volunteer opportunities so everyone can take part in celebrating the Bay.
Protecting and preserving the environment for the next generation is crucial to the Fairfax community and a key focus of the Countywide Strategic Plan. More information about events and activities can be found on the Chesapeake Bay Program website.
| Countywide Strategic Plan Launches New Environment & Energy Dashboard | | |
Fairfax County has launched a new Environment & Energy Dashboard as part of the Countywide Strategic Plan, providing residents with an easy way to track the county’s progress toward environmental and sustainability goals. The dashboard is the seventh of ten planned outcome-area dashboards and features key indicators related to air, water, and land quality, as well as environmental policies and practices that support a healthier and more sustainable community.
The interactive tool includes data on important measures such as greenhouse gas emissions, tree canopy coverage, electric vehicle adoption, solar energy installations, waste diversion, and other environmental trends. By making this information publicly available, Fairfax County is helping residents, community leaders, and policymakers make informed, data-driven decisions to improve climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and a cleaner future for all.
| |
Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge | |
Fairfax County is inviting residents to participate in the Sustain Fairfax Challenge, a free online platform designed to help individuals and families take simple, meaningful actions that support a healthier environment. Through the challenge, participants can explore sustainability activities tailored to their household, track their progress, and learn how everyday choices—such as conserving energy, reducing waste, using alternative transportation, or preparing for extreme weather—can make a positive impact on the community and the environment.
The interactive challenge also encourages community engagement by allowing residents to connect with friends, neighbors, and local groups, share ideas, and celebrate achievements together. Available in both English and Spanish, the platform provides access to helpful resources, rebates, and guides while showing how small actions can add up to significant environmental benefits. By participating in the Sustain Fairfax Challenge, residents can help create a cleaner, more resilient Fairfax County while saving money and building sustainable habits for the future.
| | Celebrating 10 Years of Diversion First | |
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Diversion First, a Fairfax County initiative that connects individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges with treatment and support rather than unnecessary involvement in the justice system.
Over the past decade, Diversion First has expanded a range of services, including crisis response, diversion programs, reentry support, and community-based care. These efforts have helped divert thousands of individuals to treatment, reducing repeat justice system encounters while enhancing public safety and community well-being.
| | Learn, Lead, Explore: FCPD Summer Programs Open for Students and Young Adults | |
Graduation season is here, and for students and young adults, summer is a great time to start thinking about what comes next.
Whether you are exploring career paths, building your resume, looking for leadership experience, or curious about the technology, teamwork, and training behind modern policing, the Fairfax County Police Department offers several summer programs designed to give participants a firsthand look at public safety.
From hands-on activities to conversations with officers across the department, these programs give participants the chance to learn more about law enforcement, public service, and the many career opportunities that exist within FCPD.
| Police Leaders of Tomorrow | |
Police Leaders of Tomorrow is designed for young adults ages 18-24 in the Metro Washington Area who are interested in exploring careers in law enforcement and learning more about the police profession.
Participants will take part in presentations, activities, and opportunities focused on public service, leadership, character, and community. Participants are expected to attend all classes and will also have the opportunity to participate in a ride-along with a sworn police officer.
June 22-26, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open to young adults ages 18-24 in the Metro Washington Area
| |
The Teen Police Academy gives high school students an opportunity to learn more about the Fairfax County Police Department, understand core police functions, explore careers in law enforcement, and participate in hands-on activities.
This free program is open to Fairfax County students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade during the 2026-2027 school year, including public, private, and homeschooled students.
July 13-17, 2026
9:0 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open to eligible Fairfax County high school students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
| Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement | |
Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement gives high school girls in Northern Virginia the opportunity to explore careers in law enforcement and learn firsthand about core police functions, including patrol, helicopter operations, and crime scene investigation.
Participants will meet women leaders in law enforcement, learn what it takes to become a police officer, and discover the skills developed through police academy training.
July 27-31, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open to high school girls in Northern Virginia entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
| |
For young people looking for a longer-term opportunity, the Fairfax County Public Safety Cadets Program provides leadership development, ethical decision-making skills, teamwork, mentorship, and career preparation for those interested in law enforcement or public safety.
The program is open to teens and young adults ages 14-20 and gives them the opportunity to learn about policing, build confidence, and connect with officers and mentors from across the department.
Those interested can complete the Fairfax County Public Safety Cadets Interest Form to receive updates on upcoming program opportunities.
| | Community Meeting on Redevelopment of Lots on Ridge Top Rd., and the Corner of Route 50 and Waples Mill Rd. | |
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has reauthorized the Fairfax Center Suburban Center Sub-Units J1 and J2 Plan Amendment, pertaining to the lots on Ridge Top Road and the corner of Route 50 and Waples Mill Road. This is a continuation of efforts to evaluate future land uses, densities, and development opportunities within the area. Originally authorized in April 2023, the amendment seeks to assess the appropriate mix of residential, office, and other uses while considering transportation, public facilities, open space, and supporting infrastructure.
Plan Amendment Meeting:
Monday, June 15, 2026 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting - Zoom
Meeting ID: 880 1099 9081
Passcode: 517862
| |
Braddock District Land Use and Environment
Committee Meeting
| |
The Braddock Land Use and Environment Committee will hold an in-person public meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Braddock Hall. Braddock District Supervisor Sizemore Heizer will be in attendance. Committee Members will be electing new officers for the year.
All interested members of the community are also invited to participate in the online meeting by using the Teams Link, or by dialing in to (571) 429-5982, Phone Conference ID: 730 922 969#.
| Join the Braddock Land Use and Environment Committee | |
The Braddock Land Use and Environment (BLUE) Committee is looking for volunteers to join the committee to review and comment on land use, transportation, and environmental matters in the Braddock District.
The BLUE Committee was established in 2012 to review applications for proposed land use changes in the Braddock District and other matters relating to the local environment. They make recommendations to the Braddock District Planning Commissioner and the Braddock District Supervisor. It is a self-selected, independent, nonpartisan, and volunteer advisory body that is comprised of interested citizens who live in the Braddock District.
The Committee meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Braddock Hall, next to the Supervisor's office at 9002 Burke Lake Road, Burke, VA 22015, in the same building as the Kings Park Library. A virtual meeting option is also available. Committee meetings are open to the public and community members are welcome to attend.
Any resident of the Braddock District may apply for membership on the Committee. Terms are one year, from July 1 to June 30, and may be renewed annually. Members are asked to make a commitment to at least one year of service and to serve on at least one subcommittee. No previous land use experience is required, however, members are asked to have the following: an interest in advising on preserving stable neighborhoods while allowing for change that improves the community as a whole; a readiness to become informed about land use and environmental matters; and a willingness to take into consideration the interests and perspectives of all parties. Those interested are encouraged to attend a meeting, learn about the Committee's work, and talk with current members.
An application may be downloaded here or may be requested by calling (703) 425-9300.
| Learn About “Fast Track” Residential Permitting | |
Fairfax County Land Development Services is making it faster and easier for you to make home improvements, such as installing solar panels. Visit the following link to learn how the County has improved its Residential Fast Track building plan process by reducing the review time from five to just one business day. The goal is simple: To help you move your project forward without long delays. A similar review of the commercial Fast Track program is also underway.
In addition to solar, eligible projects also include decks, finished basements, small one-story additions, minor interior updates, small garages, retaining walls under four feet, swimming pools and more. Residents are strongly encouraged to call 703-222-0801 or email LDSBuildingPermits@fairfaxcounty.gov before submitting an application to make sure the project qualifies.
| Resources for Older Adults
& Caregivers | | Training Session: Exploring Dimensions of Aging | | |
This unique opportunity allows participants to “see through the eyes” of older adults is available through a new virtual training series called Exploring the Dimensions of Aging through Virtual Reality. The training series was developed by Embodied Labs and simulates what it is like to be an older adult encountering various challenges in everyday situations.
The 75-minute facilitated virtual sessions focus on how social isolation impacts an older adult, learning about the early signs and progression of Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease, how to navigate caregiver burnout, and much more.
Registration is required to attend the training session
Upcoming session:
- June 23 - The Beatriz Lab: Alzheimer's Disease
Have questions? Call (703) 324-5374, TTY 711.
| | VRE Fireworks Trains Return for July 4th Celebrations | |
The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) is bringing back its popular Fireworks Trains on Saturday, July 4, 2026, offering a convenient and festive way to celebrate Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Special roundtrip service will operate on both the Fredericksburg and Manassas lines, with passengers boarding at select stations for express service to Washington, D.C. Trains will arrive around 5 p.m. and return south after the National Mall fireworks show concludes, allowing riders to avoid traffic and parking challenges. Tickets are available through Eventbrite beginning June 1 and will be sold until they are gone.
Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for children under 12, and each rider will receive a commemorative LED “sparkler” to help celebrate the occasion. VRE will also operate its full regular service schedule on Friday, July 3, making it easy for commuters and visitors alike to participate in America250 events throughout the region. For schedules, ticket information, and guidelines for attending events on the National Mall, visit VRE’s Fireworks Trains webpage.
| E-Bikes Gain Speed — Here’s What to Know Sharing the Road | |
Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are becoming an increasingly popular way for Fairfax County residents to commute, run errands, and enjoy our community’s trails and shared-use paths. As more people choose e-bikes for transportation and recreation, it is important for everyone—riders, pedestrians, and motorists alike—to understand how to safely share the road. E-bike riders should follow traffic laws, obey posted speed limits, stay alert to their surroundings, and yield appropriately to pedestrians and other trail users.
Motorists can help improve safety by remaining aware of cyclists, providing sufficient space when passing, and recognizing that bicycles and e-bikes have a legal right to use many roadways. By practicing courtesy, patience, and responsible behavior, we can create a safer environment for everyone while supporting transportation options that promote mobility, sustainability, and community connectivity throughout Fairfax County.
For more information: Fairfax County Government News Center
| Virtual Meeting for Lee Chapel Road Project Set for June 11, 2026 | |
Residents are invited to attend an online public information meeting on the Lee Chapel Road project at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Hosted by the Fairfax County Department of Transportation and Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, the meeting will provide an update on the project's progress and next steps.
Topics will include roadway design, maintenance of traffic plans, traffic analysis and detour routes, utility coordination, environmental considerations, and the project's cost and schedule. Following the presentation, attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback. The meeting will be held virtually through Microsoft Teams, with both online and phone participation options available.
| Route 29 Inside the Beltway Active Transportation Study To Hold Virtual Community Meeting in Spanish | | |
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) will host a virtual public meeting entirely in Spanish to provide an overview of the Route 29 Active Transportation Study and proposed improvements on Wednesday, June 10, at 7:00 p.m.
To join the Spanish meeting:
FCDOT staff are requesting feedback on proposed transportation improvements. To learn more:
To submit feedback by phone, please call 703-890-5898 and enter Project Code 2402 to leave a recorded voice mail comment. Feedback will be accepted through the close of business, Tuesday, June 30.
For more information, visit the Route 29 Active Transportation Study webpage.
| | Follow Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer on
Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Bluesky, and 'X.' | | | | |
