| |  | Thursday, Spetember 11, 2025 | | | | |
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Good afternoon,
Today, as we reflect on September 11, we pause to remember the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the extraordinary bravery of our first responders and everyday heroes. It’s a day of reflection, on grief, on unity, and on the resilience that has carried us forward. This morning, I had the honor of joining our firefighters at Station 28 in Seven Corners for a memorial ceremony, and I was reminded once again of the strength and service that define our community.
Even as we reflect, we continue the work of building a stronger, more connected Mason District. From celebrating civic engagement to expanding community programs and honoring those who serve, there is much to share with you this month.
In this edition of Mason Matters, you’ll find:
🧹 Culmore Day Clean Up
Residents came together for a morning of service and neighborhood pride, thank you to all who participated.
🍂 Leaf Collection Town Hall
We welcomed residents to learn more about the future of vacuum leaf collection and hear directly from DPWES staff.
🎙️ Next Episode of Reimagine Mason
I sit down with Reasa Currier to talk animal welfare, pet-friendly policies, and how we’re working together to support both people and pets.
🗂️ Shredding Event Success
Thanks to everyone who came out to safely dispose of documents and protect against identity theft.
As always, I’m grateful to be in this work with you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 703-256-7717 or Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov if we can be of service.
Thank you for staying connected, and let’s keep building a stronger Mason District, together.
Sincerely,
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Andres Jimenez
Mason District Supervisor
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👟 On the Move with Supervisor Jimenez: Recent Visits & What’s Ahead | | 🚒 Remembering 9/11 at Fire Station 28 | | |
Today, I joined the firefighters and emergency personnel at Fire Station 28 in Seven Corners for their annual 9/11 memorial ceremony.
On this day, we pause to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, those who perished in the attacks, and the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others. Being with our local firefighters this morning, standing in silence and reflection, was a powerful reminder of the bravery, resilience, and unity that define our community.
It’s never lost on me that the men and women of Fairfax County Fire & Rescue continue to answer the call every single day. Today was about honoring that legacy and recommitting ourselves to the values of service, compassion, and community.
Thank you to the team at Fire Station 28 for welcoming me, and for all you do to protect and serve Mason District.
| | 🧹 Culmore Day Clean Up Brings Neighbors Together | | |
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of joining neighbors, families, and community partners for our Culmore Day Clean Up, and I couldn’t be prouder of the turnout and the spirit everyone brought to the event.
We kicked things off at the Culmore Community Library, where I had the opportunity to thank our volunteers for stepping up to help keep our community clean and welcoming. From the moment folks signed in, collected their gloves and supplies, and grouped up for their assignments, the energy was incredible.
Seeing everyone come together, from students to seniors, to take care of the streets and sidewalks we all share was a powerful reminder of what makes Mason District such a special place. After the cleanup, we gathered back at the library for a well-deserved lunch and some great conversations.
I’m especially grateful to Second Story, Friends of Holmes Run, the Special Waste Management Program, Culmore Library staff, and all the volunteers who made the day such a success. Thank you for showing up, showing pride, and showing what community looks like.
| | 🍂 Leaf Collection Town Hall | | |
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to speak with many of you at the Mason District Leaf Collection Town Hall at the Government Center. I want to thank everyone who took the time to stop by and engage with our Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) team during this open-house style event.
This was part of our ongoing effort to improve communication around seasonal leaf collection, especially as we plan for the fall. Residents were able to speak directly with staff, ask questions about service areas, and learn more about the environmental and logistical challenges associated with vacuum leaf collection.
We know how important this service is to many of our neighborhoods, and I appreciated hearing your feedback, whether it was about scheduling, routes, or how we can make the process smoother going forward.
Thank you again for staying engaged, and for helping us build a more responsive and transparent local government.
| | 🗂️ Shredding Event Brings Out the Community and the Paper! | | |
I want to thank everyone who joined us at the Mason District Government Center for our Shredding Event this past weekend! We had a fantastic turnout, and it was great to see so many residents taking proactive steps to protect their personal information and safely dispose of old documents.
Events like this are a simple but powerful way we can help residents safeguard against identity theft while keeping unnecessary paper out of landfills. From old tax forms to outdated files and junk mail, we shredded it all, and we did it with smiles and a strong sense of community.
Thank you again to everyone who stopped by. We’re already looking forward to the next one!
| | 🎙️ Coming Up on Reimagine Mason: A Conversation with Reasa Currier | | |
I’m excited to share that the next episode of Reimagine Mason is on the way, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.
I sat down with Reasa Currier, Director of the Fairfax County Department of Animal Sheltering, for a great conversation about animal welfare, community partnerships, and the work happening at the new Lorton Animal Shelter. We also discussed ways we can make Mason District even more pet-friendly, from education initiatives to local resources for pet owners.
As the founder of the Mason District Animal Welfare Alliance, this conversation was especially meaningful to me. I’m proud of the collaborative efforts happening in our district to support both animals and the people who care for them.
The episode drops next week, keep an eye on your inbox and our social media channels for the link. Whether you're an animal lover or just curious about what’s happening behind the scenes in Fairfax County, this episode has something for you.
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🍽️ Restaurants Wanted: Be Part of the 2nd Annual Mason District Restaurant Week!
🗓️ October 20–26, 2025
🌍 Theme: Eat Around the World in Mason
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🍽️ Mason District Restaurant Week is Back!
Mark your calendars! Mason District Restaurant Week returns October 20–26, 2025 with this year’s theme: “Eat Around the World.”
This week-long celebration is your chance to explore the incredible flavors of our community, support local businesses, and enjoy special menus from some of your favorite restaurants.
📅 October 20–26, 2025
✨ Theme: Eat Around the World
We’re inviting restaurants across Mason District to join in the fun. If your restaurant would like to participate, please email mason@fairfaxcounty.gov for details.
Stay tuned for the full list of participating restaurants and get ready to eat your way through Mason District!
| | 📢 Fairfax County Federal Workforce Resource Hub | | |
Fairfax County is home to about 80,000 federal employees and more than 3,800 federal contractors, making our community closely tied to federal operations. The Fairfax County Federal Workforce Resource Hub offers essential support for residents, government employees, military/veterans, contractors, nonprofits, and businesses impacted by changes in federal services or employment. From job search tools to financial assistance and county services, the hub helps our workforce stay strong, informed, and connected.
🔗 Explore resources and support: Fairfax County Federal Workforce Resource Hub
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George Mason University Launches Support Resources for Displaced Federal Workers
George Mason University is offering support services for federal employees and families impacted by job disruptions, helping them build new skills and career paths. Resources include 90+ online micro-credential courses, free entrepreneurial coaching, graduate application fee waivers, and complimentary tickets to select events. These programs aim to keep displaced workers engaged, connected, and prepared for future opportunities.
To learn more and access these resources, visit gmu.edu/displaced-workers-support.
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🚲 Stay Connected: Active Transportation Newsletter
Did you know that FCDOT’s Active Transportation Program publishes a monthly newsletter? It’s a great way to stay up to date on local events, safety tips, transportation plans, and projects that make walking, biking, and rolling easier and safer across Fairfax County. Whether you’re a regular trail user or just curious about what’s happening in your neighborhood, this newsletter is a valuable resource to keep you informed and engaged.
👉 Check it out and subscribe here: Active Transportation Newsletter | Transportation
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🚧 Check Out VDOT’s 2025 Paving Map
Wondering when your street, or a nearby road, might be repaved? The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has a live paving map for 2025 that lets you track paving projects across the region in real time. It’s a helpful tool to stay informed about planned improvements and potential impacts in your neighborhood.
👉 Explore the map here.
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Community Drives and Programs | | |
🎶 Mason Arts Social Hour – Friday, September 12
Looking for a fun way to spend your Friday evening? Join the Mason Arts Group for a special Social Hour at OmyChiQ+ Bar on Friday, September 12.
This isn’t just a casual meetup, we’ll have live music, plenty of community spirit, and the perfect chance to connect with fellow neighbors, artists, and friends. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the arts or just looking for a lively night out, this event is for you!
📅 Friday, September 12
📍 OmyChiQ+ Bar
🎶 Hosted by the Mason Arts Group with live performances
Come raise a glass, enjoy great music, and help us celebrate Mason’s vibrant arts community. We hope to see you there!
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Upcoming Forum: Animal Welfare League of Arlington
The Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia will host its next Forum on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Little River United Church of Christ in Annandale. The featured speaker is Jennifer Toussaint, Chief of Animal Control at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, who is nationally recognized for her work in humane urban wildlife management. This free, in-person program is open to the public: learn more at llinova.org or contact admin@llinova.org with questions.
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Urgent Need for Type O Blood Donors
Inova is facing a critical shortage of Type O blood due to multiple traumatic incidents and medical emergencies. While all blood types are needed, Type O is especially urgent to help patients in critical need.
Make a life-saving difference today by scheduling an appointment. Call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (1-866-256-6372) or visit inovablood.org.
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📚 Support Reading is Fundamental of Northern Virginia
Reading is Fundamental of Northern Virginia (RIF of NOVA) is seeking businesses and individuals to sponsor their upcoming race, sponsorships received by October 10 will include your name or logo on the race-day T-shirt. Proceeds directly support the Books For Keeps program, which provides at least one new book of their choice to more than 23,000 children across Mason District, Fairfax County, and neighboring communities. The race itself will be held on October 25, and while runners and walkers are welcome, sponsorships are the top priority right now. Learn more about RIF of NOVA’s programs at 2025 BOOK IT FOR BOOKS - Reading is Fundamental of Northern Virginia
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📚 Mark Your Calendars: George Mason Friends Fall Book Sale
I’m excited to share that the beloved George Mason Friends Fall Book Sale is right around the corner! From Wednesday, October 22 through Sunday, October 26, the George Mason Regional Library (7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale) will be filled with incredible deals on high-quality used books, CDs, and DVDs for every reader and collector.
This semi-annual event is a community favorite, and for good reason. Not only is it a chance to stock up on great reads, it also directly supports our local library programs, including the Summer Reading Program, Library Foundation scholarships, Fall for the Book Festival, and other essential resources at George Mason Regional Library.
📖 Preview Night:
Wednesday, October 22 | 5:00–8:00 PM
$20 entry fee per adult for first pick access
📚 General Sale (Free Entry):
Thursday through Sunday | 10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Sunday is half-price day, perfect for bargain hunters!
Come early for the best selection, bring your tote bags, and know that every purchase supports literacy, learning, and community programming right here in Mason District. For more details, visit georgemasonfriends.blogspot.com or contact georgemasonfriends@gmail.com / 703-813-6616.
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🌳 New Homeowner Tree Program Coming to Culmore
The Fairfax Tree Stewards, a nonprofit dedicated to planting and maintaining trees across Fairfax County, are launching a new Homeowner Tree Program right here in the Culmore community.
The goal is simple: increase the number of trees in our neighborhoods to provide shade, cool summer temperatures, reduce heating and cooling costs, improve air quality, and create habitats for birds and other wildlife. Plus — trees add beauty and value to your home!
Here’s how it works:
🌱 The program is looking for homes that currently have no trees in their front yard.
🌱 Homeowners who sign up will receive a 7–9 ft. tree from a selected list.
🌱 Tree Stewards volunteers will come to your home, bring all the supplies, and help you plant it properly to ensure long-term success.
🌱 A simple application and a suggested $10 donation secures your new tree.
📩 Apply here: fairfaxtreestewards.org/tree-program-application
🌐 Learn more: fairfaxtreestewards.org
📧 Questions? Email Trees@FairfaxTreeStewards.org
📞 Call: Brenda Frank (703-821-0624) or Jo Doumbia (202-492-5996, Spanish)
This is a wonderful opportunity to green your yard, lower costs, and make Culmore a cooler, healthier, and more beautiful place to live.
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Support Healthy Aging: Apply for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
The Virginia Office for Aging Services and FRESHFARM are partnering to bring the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (Senior FMNP) to eligible older adults in Fairfax County!
The program offers a $50 benefit to qualifying seniors to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from local farmers markets. It’s a simple way to eat healthy, support local agriculture, and stay engaged in the community.
📅 Apply by September 30, 2025
🎯 Goal: Enroll 772 senior shoppers this season!
🔎 Learn more: freshfarm.org/virginia-senior-fmnp
📝 Apply now: freshfarm.org/virginia-senior-fmnp/apply
Please help spread the word, share with neighbors, post in your community, or feature in your organization’s outreach. Every share brings us closer to connecting seniors with fresh, nutritious food.
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Explore Our Galaxy and More at George Mason’s Space Day
Prepare for takeoff! 🚀🧑🚀
Aspiring space explorers are invited to join George Mason University’s College of Science on Saturday, September 20 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus for Space Day. This FREE and interactive event explores the science, research, and technology driving today’s leading aerospace initiatives.
The out-of-this-world event features experts from George Mason, NASA, and the aerospace industry, and includes hands-on activities, observatory tours, and educational exhibits. 🪐🔭 Learn more at https://science.gmu.edu/spaceday
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