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People
One Journey to Make Pride Celebrations Across Northern Virginia Within Reach
Pride Month is a celebration of courage, community, and the freedom to live authentically. It’s a time to recognize the progress that has been made toward equality, while also honoring the resilience of LGBTQ+ people whose voices, stories, and advocacy continue to make our communities stronger.
Bringing the World Home: Au Pair Program Charms Families in Northern Virginia
The au pair program, specifically through organizations like Cultural Care Au Pair, is a cultural exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding between Americans and international participants that is facilitated by the US Department of State. Unlike traditional childcare, an au pair is a vetted young adult from another country who lives with a host family, providing personalized care while engaging in a deep cultural exchange, according to Cultural Care.
City FY2027 Budget: Taxes, BPOL, Meals Tax, and the Cost of Funding Growth
City of Fairfax, VA - The Fiscal Year 2027 (FY2027) budget for City of Fairfax outlines a broad financial plan that increases funding for schools, infrastructure, and public services while relying on a diversified set of revenue sources. Rather than a single large tax hike, the city spreads revenue adjustments across property taxes, business taxes, meals tax, hotel tax, and utility fees, creating a gradual but noticeable increase in overall costs for residents and businesses.
Fairfax County Adopts $5.7 Billion FY2027 Budget, Slightly Lowers Tax Rate
Fairfax County, VA - Fairfax County officials adopted a roughly $5.7 billion FY 2027 General Fund budget, maintaining spending across schools, public safety, transportation, health services, and infrastructure while navigating rising costs in staffing, healthcare, and long-term capital needs. The Board of Supervisors approved the plan in May, along with a quarter-cent reduction in the real estate tax rate to about $1.12 per $100 of assessed value.
Community
Fairfax Federation Crisis Escalates Amid Conflicting Claims of Authority, Discrimination, and Bylaw Compliance
A leadership dispute within the Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Associations (“Federation”) has escalated into a significant governance controversy, marked by contested board actions, emergency special meetings, disputed communications, and sharply conflicting accounts regarding the legality and legitimacy of the removal of the Federation’s President.
History
Honoring a Legacy: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C.
As our nation reflects on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., one monument stands as a lasting tribute to his vision of justice, equality, and hope: the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C.. Nestled along the Tidal Basin, between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, it offers visitors a place to pause, reflect, and be inspired.
Community
The Great Christmas Light Fight: Ashburn Family Shines
An Ashburn family has just taken the holiday spotlight by winning ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight, bringing home the $50,000 grand prize and the coveted Light Fight trophy for their dazzling Christmas display. The Horn family, residents of 21260 Rosetta Place in Ashburn, out-lit competitors from across the country with a show that featured nearly 90,000 pixel lights synchronized to an original musical score created by the family — a first in the show’s history and a key element that impressed the judges.
Traditions
Fairfax United Methodist Church Preschool:A Christmas Story
Nothing says December in Northern Virginia like cruising Meadow Farms’ dazzling light show in Vienna, sipping hot cider at the Reston Town Center tree...
Culture
“A Few of My Least Favorite Things”
It’s nearly the end of the year. Christmas will soon be here. In the spirit of the season, we need to celebrate all the...
City
Mary Petersen: A Lifelong Advocate for Fairfax City’s Homeless Community
Honoree Mary Petersen has been a cornerstone of The Lamb Center, playing a vital role in its evolution from a modest outreach initiative into a comprehensive support center for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Lamb Center began in 1987 as a social outreach ministry of Truro Church, providing daytime support for those without stable housing. Petersen became involved early on, dedicating her time and energy to the center’s mission. Her commitment eventually led her to serve on the board of directors, where she helped guide the organization’s strategic growth and expansion.
