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History
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.
City
Catherine S. Read’s Legacy As First Woman Mayor Of The City of Fairfax
Catherine S. Read was first elected Mayor of the City of Fairfax in November 2022. She was sworn in on January 1, 2023, becoming the first woman mayor in the city's history. She was subsequently reelected in 2024. Her election marked both a personal achievement and a symbolic step forward for women in public leadership across Northern Virginia. A reflection on her career tells the story of a woman who worked tirelessly for her neighbors and her values.
America
Virginia – The Mother of Aviation
Susan Catherine (Koerner) Wright was born on April 30, 1831 in Hillsboro, Virginia and died on July 4, 1889 in Dayton, Ohio. Although she was not alive to watch her children change the world forever with their flight on the 17th of December 1903, she was fundamental in their achievements.
History
How a cow burned down the Fairfax County Jail
In the early morning hours of Wednesday, December 12, 1883, Richard “Dick” Lane and John Wheeler, entered "Strawberry Vale", the 144-acre farm of James N. Walton near Peach Grove (now Tyson’s Corner) Fairfax County, Virginia. Strawberry Vale was located on the south side of Chain Bridge Road (Rt. 123) at the interchange of present-day Interstate 495.
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.
History
Virginia Prepares for the 75th Governor’s Inauguration on January 17, 2026
Virginians are gearing up to witness a historic moment as the Commonwealth prepares to inaugurate its next governor. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond.
Latest
Washington Monument Lighting Show
As America turns 250, the Washington Monument becomes the world’s tallest birthday candle. From December 31-January 5, each night the story of the discovery, expansion, independence, and future of our nation will be projected onto the Washington Monument. This will serve as a dazzling kickoff to the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence.