| |  | Thursday, September 25, 2025 | | | | |
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Good afternoon,
This past week has been a reminder of everything that makes Mason District such a vibrant and connected community. From celebrating our cultures to supporting our schools and lending a helping hand to neighbors in need, I am continually inspired by the energy and generosity that shine through in each of our neighborhoods.
In this edition of Mason Matters, you’ll find:
🎉 Culmore Day
A celebration of community, culture, and connection, with a special highlight as I presented the Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation.
🚌 Stuff the Bus
Our collection at the Annandale Giant was a tremendous success, with donations going directly to support the ACCA Child Development Center.
🚗💦 Sleepy Hollow Elementary Car Wash
Students, families, and staff came together to raise funds and strengthen their school community.
📚 Bailey’s Upper Elementary Tour
A look inside classrooms and programs that showcase the creativity and dedication of our students and teachers.
🍴 Taste of Annandale
A celebration of local food, culture, and small businesses that makes Mason District the cultural hub of Fairfax County.
I’m grateful to each of you who make these moments possible, whether through volunteering, participating, or simply showing up to support your neighbors. Together, we are building a Mason District defined by connection, pride, and opportunity.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 703-256-7717 or Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov if we can be of service.
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 | | |
Culmore Day was such a wonderful celebration of community, culture, and connection here in Mason District. I was thrilled to join families, neighbors, and visitors who came together to enjoy live performances, delicious food from around the world, and activities that highlighted the incredible diversity of our community.
One of the highlights for me was presenting the Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation, recognizing the rich contributions of our Hispanic community and honoring the traditions that make Mason District such a vibrant cultural hub. I was also glad to see free books being shared with attendees — a great way to support literacy and learning while bringing people together.
I am so grateful to the organizers, volunteers, performers, and sponsors who made Culmore Day such a success. I’m already looking forward to celebrating with you all again next year!
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I’m proud to share that this year’s Stuff the Bus collection at the Annandale Giant was a tremendous success! Thanks to the generosity of our community, we filled the bus with donations that directly benefitted the ACCA Child Development Center, supporting their work to provide food and resources to children and families in need.
Neighbors came together with bags and boxes of food, showing once again the strength of our community spirit and our commitment to caring for one another. Every single donation made a difference — and together we helped ACCA ensure more families in Mason District have access to the support they need.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and helped spread the word. Because of you, Stuff the Bus continues to be a shining example of what we can accomplish when we come together.
| | 🚗💦 Sleepy Hollow Elementary Car Wash | | |
The Sleepy Hollow Elementary Car Wash was a huge success! Students, families, and staff came together for a fun day of soapy sponges, teamwork, and community spirit — all while raising funds to support programs that directly benefit the school.
It was wonderful to see so many neighbors stop by, get their cars cleaned, and show their support for Sleepy Hollow Elementary. Events like this highlight the strong sense of community here in Mason District and the dedication of our schools and families to making a difference.
A big thank you to everyone who participated and donated — your contributions help keep our schools thriving!
| | 📚 Touring Bailey’s Upper Elementary | | |
I had the pleasure of touring Bailey’s Upper Elementary and was so impressed by the creativity and dedication of both the students and staff. During my visit, I got to taste fresh tomatoes grown by a science class, watch students showcase their talents in the improv and dance classrooms, and even drop into a math lesson.
One of the highlights was seeing the recording studio and the library — places where students are building skills that will serve them for years to come. The energy and enthusiasm at Bailey’s Upper reflect the incredible commitment our teachers and families bring to supporting student success.
I left the tour inspired and proud of the work being done right here in Mason District to give our kids every opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
| | Taste of Annandale Highlights Mason District’s Cultural Hub | | |
The Taste of Annandale was an incredible celebration of food, culture, and community right here in Mason District. From delicious bites prepared by local restaurants to lively performances and community booths, the event truly highlighted the richness and diversity of our neighborhood.
It was wonderful to see so many neighbors, families, and visitors come together to support local businesses and enjoy everything Annandale has to offer. Events like this remind us why Mason District is the cultural hub of Fairfax County.
A big thank you to the organizers, vendors, volunteers, and performers who made this year’s Taste of Annandale such a success. I’m already looking forward to next year!
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🎨 First Ever Mason District Arts Festival | | |
I’m excited to invite you to the inaugural Mason District Arts Festival on Saturday, October 11, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at the Eileen Garnett Civic Space in downtown Annandale. This brand-new event will showcase the incredible creativity and talent of our community, with artist booths, live performances, a children’s play area, and local food trucks.
The festival is organized by the Mason District Arts Council and proudly sponsored by ArtsFairfax, Beanetics Coffee Roasters, Celebrate Fairfax, Fairfax County Planning & Development, and my office. It’s a true community partnership designed to highlight the role of the arts in strengthening Mason District and bringing neighbors together.
I hope you’ll join us for this special day of art, culture, and community.
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🍽️ Join Us for the 2nd Annual Mason District Restaurant Week!
🗓️ October 20–26, 2025
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🍽️ Mason District Restaurant Week is Around the Corner!
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! Visit our Restaurant Week website at masonrestaurantweek.my.canva.site/masondistrict and keep an eye on our social media channels for special content and deal announcements.
| | 📢 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 | |
🗳️ Early Voting Update
The Mason Government Center isn’t open for early voting just yet, but doors open on Thursday, October 23!
📅 Early Voting Dates: October 23 – November 1
⏰ Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 1 PM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM
✅ Other Fairfax County early voting sites are already open. You can find the full list here: Fairfax County Early Voting Locations
Make your plan and let’s get out the vote, Mason District!
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🐾 Supporting Our Furry Friends
In these uncertain times, food insecurity doesn’t just affect our friends, neighbors, and family members — it can also affect our pets. That’s why I’m proud to share the work of the newly formed Mason Wellfare Alliance, led by Holly Hazard and other dedicated community members here in Mason District.
One of the Alliance’s first projects is a pet food pantry to ensure our furry friends don’t go hungry. Food collection bins are now set up at three convenient locations:
- Playful Pack (Barcroft Plaza Shopping Center)
- Columbia Pike Animal Hospital
- Mason District Government Center
If you’re able, please consider supporting this effort by donating unopened wet or dry pet food at one of these locations. Together, we can make a real difference for families and their pets across Mason District.
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🌌 Discover the Universe at GMU’s Observatory!
Looking for a stellar evening? Join George Mason experts for 45-minute talks and night sky tours every Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday at the Fairfax Campus. Perfect for families, students, and stargazers of all ages.
📍 Research Hall, GMU Fairfax Campus
🕖 Evening sessions
🔗 science.gmu.edu/observatory
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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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🎭 The Mousetrap Comes to Mason District
A blizzard rages. The roads are closed. There’s no way out.
Get ready for intrigue and suspense as the Providence Players of Fairfax bring Agatha Christie’s legendary whodunit, The Mousetrap, to the stage. The longest-running play in history, The Mousetrap will keep you guessing—and second-guessing—from the first act to the final gasp.
📅 Performance Dates and Times
- Evenings: Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 7:30 p.m. (October 10–25)
- Matinees: Sunday at 2:00 p.m. (October 12 & 19)
Join us at the theater and experience a classic murder mystery where everyone becomes a suspect.
🎟️ Tickets: providenceplayers.org/tickets
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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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🌳 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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📚 George Mason Friends Fall Book Sale
The George Mason Friends Fall Book Sale returns to George Mason Regional Library, Oct 22–26! Find amazing deals on books, CDs, and DVDs while supporting library programs like the Summer Reading Program, scholarships, and Fall for the Book.
📖 Preview Night: Wed, Oct 22 | 5–8 PM | $20 entry per adult
📚 General Sale: Thu–Sun, Oct 23–26 | 10 AM–5:30 PM (Free)
✨ Half-Price Day: Sun, Oct 26
📍 George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
📧 georgemasonfriends@gmail.com | ☎️ 703-813-6616
🔗 georgemasonfriends.blogspot.com
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