Neighbors,
The
pain the past week of seeing individuals (police officers) whose hearts were so
vacant of care for another and/or their racism, anger or hatred so large, that they
missed the humanness of George Floyd, will
remain with me forever. To know that the
Minneapolis Police Department trains its officers to utilize risky, even dangerous practices that
contributed to Mr. Floyd’s murder should remind us further of the importance of
quality leadership. We are fortunate
our police have that leadership and our officers understand fundamental tenets of our community;
the sanctity of human life, fairness and opportunity. As our
Police Chief Ed Roessler wrote last week,
“We continue to pray for Mr. Floyd’s family as individuals, a Police Department, and as a community who all
collectively value the sanctity of all human life
." Read Chief Roessler’s
message about community trust
here.
Of course our
community has problems with bigotry, racism, xenophobia and equity, ones that
our leadership and I continue to work hard to address; from implementing
changes in our employment, education, housing and police practices to our broad County-wide commitment to
“One Fairfax”. We always can and always must do more to
support individuals and communities to realize their full potential. That starts with a
caring heart and concern for one another. Each of us can
make that difference every day.
This
summer will be unlike any other we have experienced. Among the many changes, we will
not be able to celebrate the opening of the
National Museum of the United States Army on June 4 or enjoy the annual presentation by the
US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps at the Board of Supervisors meeting in observation of the
US Army’s birthday on June 14. However, it is important to take a moment to
recognize all who serve in our military and their families. It is through their sacrifice that we remain the land of the free, because of the brave.
Thank you for your service!
Are your plans being scuttled by COVID-19? This is a great time to
consider local attractions, whether in-person (with safety precautions) or virtually. As our
many historic, cultural and arts sites in the MVD begin to reopen, you will find they are
taking precautions to protect both visitors and staff. Visit their websites to learn more. But, the exciting news is that
you don’t have to “go” to “visit”! Our favorite sites have created
virtual experiences to engage their visitors in new ways. TEAM MVD and Visit Fairfax have put together a
sampling of the various
South County Virtual Experiences, as well as those throughout Fairfax in
Fairfax at Home. I encourage you to
“visit”, enjoy, learn and provide support if you are able!
Read the full article…
In closing, I would like to
introduce you to our newest MVD Team member,
Diego Rodriguez Cabrera our new Latinx Outreach Coordinator. I have long wanted a team member to do more
outreach to the minority populations in our District and I am pleased Diego is joining us. He was
raised in Mount Vernon having gone to Mount Vernon Woods, Walt Whitman Middle School and Mount Vernon High School. He recently returned from the College of William and Mary where he earned his
Bachelors of Sociology with a concentration in Social Problems, Policy and Justice. In his spare time, he loves soccer, reading and ultimate frisbee! He is
excited to meet you, learn more about the your community and
how our office can better serve you.
I wish you all a
safe and happy summer, even if it is different than you ever expected!
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Respectfully yours in public service,
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Dan Storck
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
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Meet Diego Rodriguez Cabrera, TEAM MVD's Latinx Outreach Coordinator!
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Litter Warriors Clean Up Hunting Creek
Ben Swanson and Caleb Merendino have been doing clean-ups in Old Town Alexandria and around the GW Parkway for years. Recently they
launched Associates for Clean & Clean Waterways with an initial mission to clean up Hunting Creek. Phase I of the clean-up process is complete and
resulted in over 110 trash bags, with an anticipation of another 100 in Phase II. The organization's mission is to
facilitate a healthy environment and prevent pollution by organizing, inspiring and leading pollution clean-up efforts in local communities, waterways and along our shorelines through direct response and collaboration with local partners.
Learn more...
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The Garage Saves the Day
Some people are using the
garages as headquarters for community outreach.
Lorton resident, Rebecca Geller, has transformed hers into a satellite food pantry. Ms. Geller, a lawyer, is a longtime regular volunteer at the
Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC), a local food bank in Fairfax County. Her husband, Brad Cheney, and their three children, Sam, Noah and Emily, often join her.
Read the full story...
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Local Students Raise Funds to Feed Those in Need
When
school abruptly ended in March due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we didn’t know what it would mean for completing the rest of the school year or socializing with our friends. As
seventh-graders at South County Middle School, we were still just trying to adjust to middle school. When the
Foundation for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) requested
donations to assist with providing meals to families, we knew that this was the cause for us to support.
Read Akul Dixit and Riley Williams' full article...
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Feeding Those on the Front Lines
Chef Gail saw an
opportunity to help in her local community and stepped up. For the last two months, she has been
preparing meals and delivering them to
feed employees at the Lorton Inova Healthplex. To date, she has delivered
over 150 meals!
Learn more on Chef Gail's Facebook page...
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Neighborhood Health Provide Critical Medical Care
Dr. Basim Khan, MD, MPA, and his
team at Neighborhood Health provide services to
low-to-moderate income families in the Richmond Highway Corridor. They recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic
continues to disproportionately affect their patient population.Testing results are still showing
high rates of infection with approximately 50% coming back positive. The team's hope is that by
continuing to ramp up testing, providing support to affected families, and assisting with contact tracing and isolation efforts, they can help
turn the corner for their patients, families and communities.
Read more about their efforts...
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Latest COVID-19 News Links
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NOTE:
Only those topics that are
new since my last newsletter
are updated below. For
information sent in previous emails
visit our website
.
If you know someone who
would like to
sign up for my newsletter
, they can do so
here
.
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Phase I: What does it mean?
- The County's webpage lays out guidelines for businesses, houses of worship and more.
Also, if you are an employee and
feel that your working conditions
are unsafe:
- Employees or their representatives have the right to file a complaint with the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health office requesting an inspection.
- VOSH will withhold, on request, names of employees filing complaints.
- A list of VOSH offices is here or you may file a complaint online with the US Department of Labor.
Masks
Law enforcement is
not to be involved for calls related only to someone
not wearing a mask. Persons are to
report those concerns to the appropriate business or property manager or owner. For questions and concerns call 1-877-ASK-VDH3.
Outdoor Space for Restaurants and Exercise Facilities
- Last week, the Board approved an emergency ordinance allowing restaurants, breweries, wineries and exercise facilities to operate outdoors at 50% of their indoor capacity.
- Phase 1 of the Governor's Plan allows for outside dining, but only for those restaurants with a patio. Today's action will allow these businesses (even those without outside seating) to operate outside in places like parking lots and other spaces.
- The ordinance took effect immediately and is valid for no more than 60 days.
- This action was necessary because the County does not typically permit restaurants and exercise facilities to operate outside in parking lots without express approval. As a result of the Board’s action, these businesses will be able to do so without the need for any additional County approvals provided that they meet the requirements here.
- This action also included a blanket approval for individual Virginia ABC license applications.
- Learn more...
Contact Tracing
Resources for Undocumented Immigrants/Recursos para Inmigrantes Indocumentados
- Start by calling 703-222-0880, TTY 711, our Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) social work call center. CSP will make all the arrangements to get you the help you need through our network of community and County service providers.
- County staff does not ask questions around a person’s immigration status, unless you are seeking a type of assistance, such as Medicaid, where there is a legal or regulatory requirement for us to ask about this.
- We keep your information confidential, including any documents you submit to us. We do not share this information outside of CSP, unless you have given CSP authorization with other Fairfax agencies and not with the state or federal government.
- Immigration status excludes some from certain types of federal government assistance designed to address the impacts of COVID-19, such as expanded unemployment benefits and tax benefits. Acknowledging this, Fairfax County and our nonprofit partners are committed to providing basic needs assistance regardless of immigration status.
- Read more...
- Lee mas...
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Happening in the District
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Construction Contract Awarded for Lorton Community Center and Library
This contract award will provide for the
full renovation of the library, with additions, and the
construction of a one-story community center. The new work will include a
shared lobby entrance between the library and community center. The project will also
upgrade the existing park, walking trails and other site improvements. The project has a goal of
silver level certification under the LEEDS v4 Green Building program. This contract has been awarded to
R.J. Crowley, Inc. in the amount of $19,555,000.
Visit the project website...
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Groundbreaking for Hunting Creek at Fairchild Stream Restoration
Recently, the County broke ground on this
new stream restoration project. The plan was developed with
Natural Channel Design (NCD) techniques to create a stable channel cross section, longitudinal profile and planform geometry for the
severely degraded stream channels. NCD restores a degraded stream by
mimicking the characteristics of a stable, ‘natural’ stream. Through the use of geomorphic principles, NCD achieves long term stability given current and future flow rates. The Notice To Proceed was issued on
March 2, 2020. Construction completion is scheduled for
April 13, 2021.
Learn more...
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Lower Potomac Ballpark Facility & Outfall Restoration
Located at the entrance of Lower Potomac ball fields, this project retrofitted the existing
stormwater management basin to provide
improved water quality benefits. Two forebays were installed to create an
extended detention wetland to provide
maximum enhanced water quality, and a new concrete riser was added to increase the quality of water discharged from the basin. Approximately 200 linear feet of eroded channel was rehabilitated using
natural stream design techniques to improve water quality, provide channel stability and enhance ecological function.
Native trees, shrubs, and plants were installed to enhance function of the site and
provide habitat for local wildlife. This project will remove approximately 17 lbs. phosphorus, 86 lbs. nitrogen, and 10,546 lbs. of suspended solids annually and helps the County
meet regulatory requirements to improve the Chesapeake Bay. Before and after photos below.
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A Message from the
West Springfield Police Station
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Hello Mount Vernon District. It is amazing the
changes a few months can have on a country, and Fairfax County. At the West Springfield Station, there have been many changes from
more officers on the street to officers wearing masks on most of our calls for service. We are adapting to the changing times as best we can, and we are
grateful for the continued support of the community. Without your support, we would not be as effective as we are. If you have any further questions about our
COVID-19 business practices, please
visit our blog. I would also like to take this time to
introduce myself as a
new Crime Prevention Officer at the West Springfield Station. I am also the
Homeless Liaison for the station. If you have any questions, please
feel free to contact me at
anthony.capizzi@fairfaxcounty.gov, or call the station at 703-644-7377. And always remember, 911 for an emergency or 703-691-2131 for a non-emergency call.
Take care and be safe during these times. PFC Tony Capizzi
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Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events
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Lorton Farmers Market Opens
The
Lorton Farmers Market at the Lorton VRE parking lot
opened on Sunday, May 31. Openings of the county’s 10 producer-only markets
have been delayed this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To help shoppers keep their visits relatively brief
many vendors are offering pre-ordering, with streamlined payment and pickup options.
Read more on the Lorton Patch...
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Removal of Fort Belvoir’s SM-1 Nuclear Reactor to Proceed after Army Finalizes Environmental Assessment
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) remains
on track to award a contract for the decommissioning and dismantlement of the
deactivated SM-1 nuclear power plant at Fort Belvoir by September 2020.
Read more on the Fort Hunt Herald...
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Inova to Build New Hospital in Springfield
Inova Health System plans to
expand its services to the Springfield community on recently acquired property
adjacent to the current Inova Springfield HealthPlex. The expansion results from a current,
comprehensive assessment of the communities Inova serves in the eastern region of Northern Virginia. The new facility will
complement Inova Mount Vernon.
Read more in the Connection...
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New Richmond Highway Sidewalk Complete
A
new pedestrian walkway from
Virginia Lodge to Huntington Avenue is substantially completed. The construction includes a 1,320 L.F. concrete sidewalk and curb ramps,
signal modification, extension of an existing box culvert, repair cracks and spalled areas in the existing culvert, guard rails and end treatments installation, and
watermain relocation.
Learn more and see more photos...
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Pohick Road and Southrun Road Pedestrian Improvements
A
new sidewalk connection improved pedestrian access from the existing trail along the northside of Pohick Road, continuing along the eastern side of Southrun Road to the
Newington Forest Community Center, and ending at the existing sidewalk along southside Rushing Creek Drive. In addition, a
new sidewalk connection from the existing bus stop at southside Pohick Road/Southrun Road to the eastside of Southrun Road. Project improvements include curb and gutter, concrete sidewalk, curb-cut ramps, underground storm drainage system,
pedestrian signals, pavement markings and concrete bus pads.
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William K. "Billy" Hilton Named Mount Vernon District 2020 Volunteer Service Award Community Champion
I have known of the
legend of Billy Hilton at the local fire stations for many years and it is an honor to celebrate his
countless hours of service to our public safety teams. Billy is always willing to
roll up his sleeves and do any necessary grunt work with a smile. His selfless dedication and devotion to the community make him absolutely deserving of this recognition and he represents the
best in volunteerism in all of us.
Read more about Billy...
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Workhouse Arts Center News
The Workhouse announces
NEW
Drive-In Movies on Friday and Saturday nights through June, featuring
socially distanced flicks for the whole family!
In addition, the
Art of Movement Program is preparing for a
June 16 return to in-person classes. Careful planning for your safety is underway and
many classes will be held outdoors.
Learn more...
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Contest to Thank Waste and Recycling Workers
The Department of Public Works is encouraging County residents to
show their appreciation for Waste and Recycling Workers during the National Waste and Recycling Workers Week starting June 14. Residents can show their appreciation by doing things like placing
thank you signs at the curb on set day or
doing chalk art on their driveways. The
most creative idea may be used to
decorate a trash or recycling container!
Learn more and enter...
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Riverside Elementary School Earns the NWF's Eco-Schools USA Green Flag Award
This is the
highest honor given to schools working on environmental stewardship goals by the
National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Riverside began its quest in 2016, when the school developed their
edible garden, added a composter and formed an Eco-Action Club, which established a cafeteria recycling program. The
Virginia garden was added in 2017. In 2018, the school launched
audits for Energy and Consumption and Waste. In 2019, the students adjusted the audits for Energy and Consumption and Waste, and they added an
audit for Healthy Living. Students in all grades are involved in the
care and maintenance of the gardens; preschoolers and kindergartners
water the plants, and first graders
care for the birdfeeders.
Read more and watch the videos...
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GW Parkway Opens Parking Lots and Restrooms
George Washington Memorial Parkway will increase recreational access by
reopening parking lots and restrooms that were closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Park Service (NPS) is working with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a
phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.
On June 3, several parks in the Mount Vernon District will reopen.
Read more...
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June 23 Democratic and Republican Primary Election Information
What is on the Ballot?
- Republican Primary Senate Countywide
- Democratic Primary 11th Congressional District
Absentee ballots are encouraged! Absentee ballot request deadline:
June 16 by 5:00 pm.
NOTE: The polling place for the
Lorton precinct has been relocated to Lorton Station Elementary School, co-located with the Lorton Station precinct. In an Emergency Relocation due to COVID-19, the
Marlan precinct has been relocated from Paul Springs Retirement Community to Hollin Meadows Elementary School, with the Kirkside precinct.
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Job Opportunity
The
Institute for Public Health Innovation, contracted by the County, is
hiring several positions to assist with the
COVID-19 contact tracing efforts. If you or someone you know is interested, consider applying.
Learn more...
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Mount Vernon - Lee Chamber of Commerce 2020 Scholarships Announced
Nine scholarships were awarded to
local high school students by Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce to recognize
outstanding achievement of 2020 graduating seniors planning to continue their study in a business-related field.
Congratulations to all the recipients!
Read more...
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Spring Hill Community Village Counters Isolation with Opportunities for Connection
Spring Hill Community Village in Lorton, a part of the
County’s Neighbor to Neighbor program, continues to raise the bar on
caring for their village, especially during these times of social distancing. Village Leader Diane Watson understands the
perils of isolation and the detriment it has on all people, but
particularly older adults. Watson is a member of the
Long-Term Care Coordinating Council (LTCCC), the Commission on Aging (COA) and several other community groups. She shares
virtual activities with her Village. Online yoga. Zoom meetings. All of these activities are the
new way to interact and reduce isolation.
Read more...
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Working From Home (Energy) Efficiently
Working from home has its
pluses and minuses
, some days are better than others.
Higher monthly electricity bills
are an unfortunate consequence of spending more time at home, using lights, hot water, appliances and electronics like computers and monitors. If you are looking for a way to
liven up your teleworking routine
while reducing your monthly energy bills, the County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination has
six suggestions for you
.
These simple steps will help you keep your
energy use under control
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Eco-Friendly Activities For Kids
With Fairfax County Public Schools
embracing distance learning
and
preschoolers at home
as well, the County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination offers some
how-to guides for eco-friendly activities
suitable for kids of all ages. From water science, to energy transfer, to the importance of simply recycling, these activities are sure to help
keep your kids engaged and learning
.
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Mount Vernon District Staff (clockwise):
Donna Slaymaker, Nick Rinehart,
Christine Morin,
Sally Kidalov,
Supervisor Dan Storck,
Camela Speer, Volunteer Shirley Short,
Abdul Shaban,
Diego Rodriguez Cabrera
.
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May 2020 Activities:
- Phone calls: 600
- Meetings: 215
Stay Connected:
Mount Vernon Governmental Center
2511 Parkers Lane
Mount Vernon, VA 22306
703-780-7518 (TTY 711) 703-780-1491 (fax)
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Office Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Second Saturday Each Month (except August)
MV District Office: 9 a.m.
- 3 p.m.
Walk-ins and by appointment
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Boards, Authorities and Commissions
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Help
serve your community by serving on a Fairfax County Board, Authority or Commission (BAC). Please ask your friends, neighbors and community members if they are willing to help serve Fairfax County.
Citizen Corps Council
The Citizen Corps Council meets the fourth Thursday of every odd month. The council serves to
coordinate preparedness initiatives across the county through internal and external volunteer programs such as,
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS),
Neighborhood Watch, and Fire Corps. Two (2) year term.
There are
several At-Large positions available as of February 2020 on County BACs.
- Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board (Engineer/Architect Rep)
- Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board (Lending Institution Rep)
- Alcohol Safety Action Program Local Policy Board (ASAP)
- Athletic Council (Women’s Sports Alternate Rep)
- Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (Design Professional)
- Civil Service Commission
- Engineering Standard Review Committee
- History Commission (Historian)
- Human Rights Commission
- Road Viewer Board
- Tenant Landlord Commission (3 openings - Citizen Member, Condo Owner, Landlord Member & Tenant Member)
Volunteering on these committees
increases citizen participation in our District. If you are interested in serving on a county board, authority, commission, or committee (BAC), please provide a current résumé to
Donna.Slaymaker@fairfaxcounty.gov. For more information, please download the
brochure for a brief guide to BACs, or learn more on the
County website. You can also
check out the
County's Volunteer Management System
for information on these and
other volunteer opportunities near you.
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Mount Vernon District Office | 703-780-7518
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