June 14, 2024

Dear Providence,


June is an opportunity to celebrate and embrace our diversity! At Tuesday's Board of Supervisors Meeting, the Board designated June as Pride Month. The Department of Family Services provides resources and organizations for the LGBTQIA+ community here and you can click here to see how you can celebrate Pride Month with the Fairfax Library.


The Board also designated June as Immigrant Heritage Month. Celebrate Fairfax has compiled ways we can honor the unique heritage of Fairfax County's immigrant population and learn about the diverse backgrounds that enrich our community. Roopal Saran, Executive Director of the English Empowerment Center, shared that since "Fairfax County is a microcosm of the world, with residents hailing from virtually every corner of the globe, our diversity if reflected in our schools, neighborhoods, and community events where different languages, traditions, and cuisines are celebrated. such cultural exchange fosters mutual understanding and respect, making our community more inclusive and cohesive."


Independence Day celebrations begin on June 19th for Juneteenth National Independence Day. A few ways we can participate in Juneteenth is by attending events around the county to learn about our history and the impacts we experience today, and by visiting and learning from both the Black/African American Historical Marker Project and the newly-created Inclusive Leadership Institute.


Lastly, my office is still collecting diapers to benefit Fairfax Diapers and Higher Horizons. I invite you to join in supporting our community in addressing diaper insecurity. Please consider dropping off donations of any opened or unopened packages of diapers of any size at the Jim Scott Community Center. Read more about the Annual Diaper Drive here.


With gratitude,

In this week's Palchik Post:

> June 11th Board Meeting Highlights

> Providence Spotlight

> What's New in Providence?

> Health and Human Services & Updates

> Public Safety Updates

> Nature's Notes

> Land Use and Transportation Updates

> Providence Palette

> Upcoming Events

June 11th Board Meeting Highlights

At Tuesday's Fairfax County Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board designated June 19 as Juneteenth, June 7 as Gun Violence Awareness Day, and June 2024 as Pride Month and Immigrant Heritage Month. The Fairfax County History Commission presented its 2023 Annual Report.


I presented the below Board Matter:


The Board also took the following actions:

Providence District

  • Held a public hearing and approved the proposed plan amendment for the expansion of public facilities uses, including new residential uses that may include affordable and supportive housing, and other land uses supportive of the 2021 Judicial Complex Master Plan.


Countywide

  • Approved the replacement of "Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalk" signage with "Stop for Pedestrians in Crosswalk" signage. These signs are to be installed as soon as possible at 314 locations in the County.
Access the Board meeting materials here.

Providence Spotlight

Kelly Ego-Osuala

Chairman’s Task Force on Equity and Opportunity Providence District Representative on the Fairfax County Athletic Council


Kelly Ego-Osuala and her husband relocated to Providence District from “the other side of the bridge” in 2012. They have fallen in love with their community and are blessed to raise two amazing children here. Kelly is an active member of her children’s school and her community.


In August 2020, after my recommendation, Kelly was selected to join the Fairfax County Chairman’s Task Force on Equity and Opportunity. The task force, comprised of residents, institutional leaders, and subject matter experts who represented a diverse range of experiences and perspectives, was established by Chairman McKay to identify equity challenges facing Fairfax County and to develop and present recommendations and insights to the Chairman and Board of Supervisors. Kelly’s contribution to the task force and her eagerness to continue racial equity work in the community led to her appointment as the Providence District Representative to the One Fairfax Community Roundtable.


In addition to her equity work in the county, Kelly serves as the Providence District Representative on the Fairfax County Athletic Council. The council serves in an advisory capacity to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, School Board, and county agencies on matters relating to sports in the county. As a former athlete herself, Kelly is a major advocate for youth sports. Now raising two young athletes of her own, she is grateful to work alongside and collaborate with other athletic enthusiasts to ensure all the county’s youth have access and the ability to freely participate in safe, fun, and equitable sports programs.


Outside the county, Kelly also stays busy as an active member of her church and its various ministries. Professionally, Kelly works for herself as a Corporate Wellness Consultant, in which she designs and facilitates health and wellness programs for companies. She finds that no time is better spent than with her family either traveling, dining out, playing a game, or simply watching a show/movie. Thank you, Kelly, for all you do for our community here in Fairfax County!

What's New in Providence?

Providence Presents


I am thrilled that the Providence Presents concert series returns this weekend! We are kicking off the Mosaic Live series with special guests including Congressman Connolly and Chairman McKay. The Nottoway Nights series returns to Nottoway Park on July 11th. I hope to see you there!

Lillian Blackwell Historical Marker


In 2021, I was proud to lead the Board of Supervisors to initiate the Black/African American Historical Marker Project to help ensure a more comprehensive and inclusive telling of our county's diverse history. Earlier this month, I was happy to join the community in unveiling the first Black/African American Historical Marker Project marker dedicated to civil rights activist Lillian Blackwell at Oakton High School. Together with her family, we celebrated her courageous stand against segregated public spaces in the county.

Learn more about Lillian Blackwell and the Historical Marker Project.

Summer Reading Adventure


Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) is happy to announce this year's Summer Reading Adventure, which runs through August 18th, with the theme of Adventure Begins at Your Library! From adventures found in the pages of a good book to the events and programs planned, there is an adventure for everyone waiting at the library.

Learn more about the Summer Reading Adventure.

Health and Human Services Updates

Shape the Future of Aging


The SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan is a five-year strategic plan to make Fairfax County a better place to age, where older adults can live safely, independently, and with dignity. 


A special edition of the Golden Gazette provides an update and overview of the work done over the course of the first year of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan. The plan supports continuing efforts to make the Fairfax area an excellent place to age well. The first annual report was provided to the BOS at the Older Adults Committee Meeting on May 14, 2024. A selection of the initiatives that were developed and reported to the BOS at that meeting are highlighted in this special edition.

Read the special edition and learn more about SHAPE here.

Free Learning Opportunities for Seniors at George Mason University


George Mason University (GMU) offers free learning opportunities for senior citizens! Through GMU, seniors can explore lifelong learning endeavors. Eligible Virginia residents aged 60 and older may enroll for credit in university courses through the Nondegree Studies Program without paying tuition. Eligibility is based on income. All senior citizens, 60 and older, may also audit (enroll but not receive credit) classes for free.

Learn more about the offered courses here.

Public Safety Updates

Swimming in Natural Waters Safely


Fairfax County has over 1,600 miles of streams and associated channels. These natural waters are continuously changing and can be susceptible to pollution that can cause health risks to people and their pets. The Department of Public Works and Environmental Services monitors the current condition of the County’s streams and the impact of stormwater infrastructure. However, water users should always assume a level of risk when using natural waters. Because of the potential sources of contamination that can impact water quality (including sewer line breaks, illegal dumping, and runoff of pesticides, herbicides, etc.), swimming in county streams is discouraged.

Learn more about swimming in natural waters safely here.

Tornado Preparedness


Tornado warnings are serious - know what to do if you're in a warning area. Read through Fairfax County's guide to tornado preparedness which outlines what to do when Fairfax County is under a tornado watch or waning in the future. Learn about ways to stay informed of a warning, including Wireless Emergency Alerts, Fairfax Alerts, and weather radios.

Learn more about warnings and preparedness here.

Summer Crime Prevention Initiative


In an ongoing effort to proactively combat crime and keep the county the safest jurisdiction of its size, FCPD is launching a coordinated effort to reduce crime through strategic prevention and focused enforcement. The Summer Crime Prevention Initiative will last three months (June-August) with a different focus area and patrol coordination model each month. The focus areas and resource plans will be created in coordination with the FCPD's Crime Analysis Unit to use data to combat crime trends and patterns effectively.

Learn more about the Summer Crime Prevention Initiative.

Nature's Notes

Free Compost Bins at Farmers Markets


Are you looking to get into composting with the Fairfax County Park Authority Farmers Markets? If so, don’t miss out on their free countertop compost bin giveaway! Through June 16th, farmers market customers who dispose of food scraps at any of the 10 markets may receive a free compost bin. Supplies are limited and open to shoppers who have not received a bin in previous years.


Follow these easy steps below and you may have the opportunity to receive a free countertop compost bin:

  1. Learn what kind of food scraps you can drop off at the Farmers Markets by visiting the Compost Drop-Off webpage.
  2. After meals, collect your food scraps in a reusable container, an old coffee can, or even a freezer bag!
  3. Through June 16th, bring your food scraps to any of the 10 Farmers Markets and drop them off at the compost tent.

National Waste and Recycling Workers Week


During this year’s National Waste and Recycling Workers Week (June 17th - 21st), Fairfax County’s Solid Waste Management Program is excited to announce a special contest to highlight the most creative examples of residents thanking their collection workers. Starting June 17th, residents are encouraged to display messages of appreciation for the men and women who serve their neighborhood.



How to Participate:

  • Chalk Drawings: Create colorful drawings on your sidewalk or driveway.
  • Cardboard Signs & Banners: Craft signs or banners with heartfelt messages.
  • Thank-You Notes: Attach a note to your trash or recycling cart.
  • Photo Opportunities: Capture moments of children waving to the crew.


Submit Your Entries:

Take photos of your creative efforts and send them to trashmail@fairfaxcounty.gov. The most inventive idea may even be chosen to decorate a trash or recycling container! Plus, all entries will be shared on the county’s Facebook page.

Fix-it Clinic


Do you have an item that needs fixing? Rather than throwing it away, try your hand at repairing and reusing your broken item, and avoid sending it to a landfill.


At the Fix-It Clinic at the City of Fairfax Library on June 23rd, you can bring small household appliances, electronics, clothing, or jewelry, and receive guided assistance from handy volunteers. You’ll learn how to disassemble, troubleshoot, and if possible, repair your item! Workspace and basic tools will be provided.

Sign-up and learn more here.

Charge Up Fairfax


There’s still time to participate in the Charge Up Fairfax programcommunity associations have until June 30th to apply for technical assistance and partial reimbursement to cover the costs of installing EV charging stations for their residents and guests.

Electric vehicles, or EVs, are better for the environment and less expensive to fuel and maintain than gas-powered vehicles. The convenience of at-home charging makes EV ownership more practical, but that can be a barrier for residents who may not have a private garage or driveway.

Apply and learn more about Charge Up Fairfax here. 

MWCOG Climate and Leadership Awards


Government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and educational institutions across metropolitan Washington are now officially invited to apply or nominate candidates for the 2024 Climate and Energy Leadership Awards offered by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG).


Winners serve as role models for the region and are recognized in front of local, regional, and national officials for their innovative climate stewardship projects and programs that engage and serve the region’s underserved communities. Climate efforts are recognized in three categories: government agencies, NGOs, and educational institutions. The deadline for submissions is June 30th.

Apply, nominate, and learn more here.

Land Use and Transportation Updates

Fairfax Connector Update


Fairfax Connector buses will operate on a Holiday Weekday service schedule on Wednesday, June 19th.

Fairfax Connector Service on Juneteenth.

Alliance Center Community Outreach Meeting


Fairfax County is evaluating a land use change for the current site of Alliance Center condominiums at 2929 and 2931 Eskridge Road in Merrifield. Following the community kickoff meeting in September 2023, this upcoming event will provide the latest updates regarding Fairfax County’s analysis of potential impacts and the initial draft plan text. You are invited to join the discussion on Thursday, June 20th from 7:00 - 9:00 pm on Zoom. Fairfax County staff and the developer’s representatives will be available to answer questions

Learn more and access meeting details.

FCDOT Transforms Daily Travel for Residents


The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) announced a significant transformation of the Fairfax Connector bus service along the I-66 corridor and beyond, starting Saturday, June 22nd. Residents and visitors will benefit from expanded park-and-ride options, increased frequency, streamlined bus service routes, and new bus stop locations designed to make traveling throughout Fairfax County and our region more convenient for everyone.

Read more about the service changes.

Providence Palette

Poet Laureate


In partnership with Fairfax County, ArtsFairfax proudly raises visibility of poetry through the designation of a Fairfax County Poet Laureate. This program celebrates and supports a poet who can engage new audiences, create opportunities for poetry to be shared, and encourage the creation of poetry and other literary works.


The application deadline is Friday, June 28th.

Learn more about becoming the next Poet Laureate.

Fairfax Regional Artist Survey


ArtsFairfax launched a survey tool to assess the opportunities and resources local artists need to thrive. The Fairfax Regional Artist Survey is the first study of its kind, designed to identify the needs and obstacles for artists across all art forms living and working in Fairfax County, Fairfax City, and Falls Church City. Participating artists can promote and publicize their work in a new Artist Directory and immediately connect with fellow artists and professional networks through an online community.

Learn more and take the survey.

Upcoming Events

Date

Time

Location

Event Name

Wednesdays

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Oakmont Rec Center

Oakmont Farmers Market

Wednesdays

2:00 - 7:00 pm

Jim Scott Community Center

Providence Produce

Saturdays

6:00 - 9:00 pm

Mosaic District

Mosaic Live

Fri., Jun. 14th

5:30 - 8:30 pm

Long Branch Nature Center

Salsa in the Park

Sat., Jun. 15th

10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Woodrow Wilson Library

2024 Children's Summer Reading Festival

Sat., Jun. 15th

11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Frying Pan Farm Park

Exploring our Historic Meeting House and Grounds

Wed., Jun. 19th

10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Sully Historic Site

Juneteenth Celebration

Thu., Jun. 20th

11:00 am

Monument Garage

Monument Garage Ribbon Cutting

Fri., Jun. 21st

7:00 pm

Capital One Hall

Neon Night Dance Party

Sat., Jun. 22nd

11:30 am - 2:00 pm

Burke Lake Park

Annual NOVA Fathers Matter Cookout

Tue., Jun. 25th

6:00 pm

Starr Hill Biergarten

Drag Bingo

Wed., Jun. 26th

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale

Senator Mark Warner's Passport Acceptance Fair

Wed., Jun. 26th

12:00 - 1:00 pm

Virtual

Financial Steps and Resources for Family Caregivers

Thu., Jun. 27th

7:00 - 9:00 pm

James Lee Community Center (Theater)

English Empowerment Center's Annual Recognition Ceremony

Contact Us

Office Phone: (703) 560-6946

EmailProvidence@fairfaxcounty.gov

Website: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/providence

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