| |
|
Good afternoon!
I hope you're enjoying the start of June and finding time to get outside as summer settles in. It’s been an exciting and active season in Mason District, and I’m happy to share a few highlights and ways to stay engaged.
In this edition of Mason Matters, you’ll find:
🥈 Justice Rowing Takes Silver at Nationals
The Girls’ Junior Quad earned a silver medal at the SRAA National Championship, Justice High’s first since 2016!
🎉 Ribbon Cutting at Justice High School
We celebrated the launch of major capital improvements that will enhance learning spaces for students and staff.
🏦 InFirst Federal Credit Union Joins the Community
InFirst Federal Credit Union opened a new branch in Mason District, expanding access to trusted financial services.
🐾 A Quick Reminder on Pet Safety
As summer heats up, please don’t leave pets in parked cars, even briefly, as it can quickly become dangerous.
📅 Summer Events and Community Projects
From festivals to park upgrades, there’s a lot happening, stay tuned to our calendar for ways to get involved.
Fairfax County is full of energy this season, and I hope these updates help you stay informed and connected. As always, my office is here to help, please reach out anytime at 703-256-7717 or Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Thanks for being an engaged member of our Mason District community. I look forward to seeing you out and about soon!
Sincerely,
| |
Andres Jimenez
Mason District Supervisor
| | | | | |
👟 On the Move with Supervisor Jimenez: Recent Visits & What’s Ahead | | InFirst Federal Credit Union Opens New Branch in Mason District 🎉🏦 | | |
We were thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of InFirst Federal Credit Union’s newest branch right here in Mason District. This expansion marks a continued commitment to empowering community members with trusted financial services and support.
Welcome to the neighborhood, InFirst. Here's to building brighter financial futures, together.
| | Celebrating Progress at Justice High School | | |
We were proud to join the Justice High School community for the Capital Improvement Project Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. This important milestone reflects our shared commitment to investing in education and creating spaces where students can thrive.
Improving our schools is a direct investment in our future, and it was inspiring to see that investment come to life at Justice High.
| | Justice Rowing Takes Silver at Nationals 🥈🚣♀️ | | |
Justice High School made an exciting return to the SRAA National Championship, with the Girls’ Junior Quad earning a silver medal in a thrilling final, Justice’s first medal at Nationals since 2016.
Congratulations to all three Justice Rowing boats for their determination, teamwork, and outstanding performances, especially in the face of a highly competitive field and challenging weather.
A heartfelt thank-you to the dedicated athletes, coaches, and supporters who made this achievement possible.
| | | | |
Flood Mitigation Project and Fire & Rescue Training Underway on Barrett Road | | |
As part of the ongoing Tripps Run at Barrett Road Flood Mitigation Project, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department will be conducting training exercises at homes located at 6656–6642 Barrett Road beginning May 21, 2025. These training exercises will take place intermittently between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. over the next several weeks and will include both non-destructive and destructive scenarios, followed by home demolition as the project advances.
This essential training provides firefighters with realistic practice in key skills such as search and rescue, ventilation, and hose operations while maintaining strict safety protocols.
The project itself, funded by an $8.9 million grant from the Community Flood Preparedness Fund, aims to reduce property and structural flooding, restore stream stability, and create a new environmental corridor with passive recreational space in the Bel Air neighborhood. Design began in 2023 and will continue alongside the planned mitigation work.
For questions about the training exercises, contact Lt. Andy Martinez at 571-363-9874 or Andres.Martinez@fairfaxcounty.gov. For project-related inquiries, contact Jacob Green at 571-407-6723.
| | Warm Weather Alert: Keep Pets Safe in the Heat | | |
As temperatures rise, it's important to remember that even a short time in a parked car can be fatal for pets. On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach 102 degrees in just 10 minutes, and up to 120 degrees in 30 minutes, even with windows slightly open.
Dogs and cats are highly susceptible to heat stress. Warning signs include heavy panting, a rapid pulse, glazed eyes, vomiting, and unsteadiness. If your pet shows signs of overheating, move them to a shaded area immediately, apply cool (not cold) water with towels, and offer small sips of cool water or ice cubes. Seek veterinary care right away if symptoms are severe.
If you see a pet alone in a parked car on a hot day, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Travel Tips for Pet Safety:
- Never leave pets unattended in a car, even briefly.
- Always travel with your pet’s rabies certificate and up-to-date ID tags, one for home, one for your destination.
- Use carriers or pet seat belts for secure transport.
- Remember: a quick errand is not worth your pet’s life.
Let’s keep our four-legged family members safe and healthy this summer.
| | 📢 Fairfax County Federal Workforce Resource Hub | | |
Fairfax County is home to around 80,000 federal employees and over 3,800 federal contractors, making our region deeply connected to federal operations. To support those impacted by changes or disruptions in federal services or employment, the Fairfax County Federal Workforce Resource Hub provides essential resources for residents, government employees, active military/veterans, contractors, nonprofits, and businesses. Whether you need job search assistance, financial support, or guidance on available county services, this hub is designed to help you navigate current and future challenges.
🔗 Explore resources and support: Fairfax County Federal Workforce Resource Hub
Fairfax County is committed to ensuring our workforce and community remain strong, stay informed, and connected!
| | |
🚲 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
| | |
🚧 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.
| | | | |
Community Drives and Programs | | |
George Mason University Launches Support Resources for Displaced Federal Workers
George Mason University is offering a comprehensive suite of support services to assist federal employees and their families impacted by job disruptions. These resources are designed to help individuals gain new skills, explore new career paths, and stay engaged with the community.
Available Resources Include:
- Access to Online Micro-Credentials: Over 90 training courses and certifications are available through Mason Career Academy.
- Free Entrepreneurial Coaching: Mason Enterprise is providing personalized coaching for those exploring small business opportunities, consulting, or federal contracting.
- Graduate Application Fee Waivers: Several Mason colleges are waiving application fees for select fall 2025 graduate programs.
- Complimentary Event Tickets: Free admission to select performances and athletic events during the 2025–26 season, courtesy of the College of Visual and Performing Arts and Mason Athletics.
To learn more and access these resources, visit gmu.edu/displaced-workers-support.
| | |
Outdoor Movie Night: The Princess Bride
Saturday, June 14 | 8:00 PM
Eileen Garnett Civic Space | 7200 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA
Prepare for adventure, laughter, and true love under the stars! Join us for a free outdoor screening of The Princess Bride, the beloved classic that has captured hearts for generations.
Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets (no open flames, please!) as we transform the Eileen Garnett Civic Space into an open-air cinema. Arrive early to grab a good spot and get ready to quote your favorite lines.
This is a free, family-friendly community event, perfect for fans of fencing, fighting, chases, escapes, giants, and miracles.
Reserve your spot here.
| | |
Improving Access to Healthy Food in Fairfax County
The Food Access Program works to ensure that all residents in Fairfax County have reliable access to nutritious food. This initiative enhances coordination among local systems and agencies, identifies barriers that prevent food access, and manages grants and contracts that support food distribution across the county.
Whether you’re a resident in need or a partner looking to support equitable food systems, the Food Access Program is here to help.
Scan the QR code for more information.
| | |
Upcoming Dementia Caregiver Program: SPY with Me
Friday, June 13 | 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. EDT | Virtual
Join us for SPY with Me, an interactive virtual program created in collaboration with the International Spy Museum’s Access to Spy initiative. Designed for individuals living with dementia and their care partners, this hour-long session uses music and museum artifacts to spark curiosity, connection, and conversation through some of the most fascinating stories in spy history.
Presenters:
- Shana Oltmans, Manager of Museum Programs & Experiences
- Ben Wilson, Museum Programs and Experiences Coordinator
Details:
- Free and open to caregivers, older adults, adults with disabilities, professionals, and the community
- This program is interactive and will not be recorded
- Advance registration is required
Questions? Contact Ayiguli Saifuding at Ayiguli.Saifuding@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 571-407-6961.
Explore stories, build connections, and engage through the lens of espionage history, all from the comfort of your home.
| | |
🐾 Help Bring More Animal Services to Mason District!
We’re excited to announce the formation of the Mason District Animal Welfare Alliance, a new monthly working group dedicated to improving services and support for animals in our community, including pets, wildlife, and companion animals.
This collaborative group will work closely with my office, local agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations to advance county resources, policies, and programs that strengthen animal welfare and promote coexistence in both residential and natural spaces.
Whether you're passionate about expanding access to veterinary care, improving shelter resources, or protecting our wildlife neighbors, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact.
📩 Interested in joining?
Contact Hannah Frank at hannah.frank@fairfaxcounty.gov for more information and to get involved.
| | | |
Summer Fun for Kids and Teens: Camps, Conservatories, and Family Theatre
Looking for engaging activities for kids and teens this summer? Traveling Players offers nationally awarded acting programs that are perfect for families in and around Mason District.
Summer Camps & Conservatories:
- Day Camps at Tysons Corner Center (Grades 2–5)
- Sleepaway Camp at Christchurch Boarding School in Virginia’s scenic Northern Neck (Grades 3–12)
These programs provide a dynamic mix of theatre, creativity, and confidence-building in a supportive, enriching environment.
Family-Friendly Plays:
Enjoy live performances all summer long at Tysons Corner Center, great entertainment for all ages.
Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Learn more and register at: www.travelingplayers.org
| | | |
💼 Job Opening & Volunteer Opportunities with Shepherd’s Center of Annandale-Springfield
The Shepherd’s Center of Annandale-Springfield (SCAS) is looking for a Part-Time Office Manager to join their dedicated team! This is a wonderful opportunity to support an organization that enhances the lives of seniors in our community.
🕒 Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
📄 Job Description & Details: www.shepherdscenter-annandale.org
📧 Email: shepherdscas@vacoxmail.com
📞 Phone: 703-941-1419
SCAS has been serving Annandale and Springfield since 2004, helping seniors stay engaged, productive, and connected through creative programs and services.
Other Ways to Get Involved:
- 🚗 Drivers: Provide volunteer transportation
- 🍽️ Lunch N’ Life Committee: Help set up/clean up, plan events, and book speakers
- 🏛️ Board Members: Help guide SCAS’s mission
- 🤝 Outreach: Connect with churches and businesses
- 💰 Fundraising/Grant Writing: Support fundraising efforts
Interested? Call the SCAS office at 703-941-1419 to learn more and start giving back to your community!
| | |
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.
| |
Volunteer appointment drivers needed for Annandale/Springfield
The joint Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA) and Shepherd's Center of Annandale Springfield transportation program is in desperate need of drivers to assist residents who cannot drive themselves to medical appointments, the grocery store, or to food banks. Learn more by calling the Shepherd's Center office at 703-941-1419 or emailing shepherdscas@vacosmail.com.
| |
Storage space needed for furniture program
The ACCA Furniture Program needs storage space for the gently used donated furniture that is picked up and then delivered to our neighbors. If you have storage space available, please email furniture@accacares.org.
| | | | |
| |
