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News
We Must Destroy Democracy in Order to Save It!
About fifty years ago the United States was involved in a military conflict in Vietnam which lasted many years and did not end well. There was a phrase from that era – “We had to destroy the village in order to save it” –which encapsulated its own self-defeating logic. We know better than the natives. We must force them to appreciate our values. Fast forward to 2026.
Willard Sherwood Health and Community Center Discussions
Residents in Fairfax City have been hearing a lot about the proposed Willard Sherwood Health and Community Center (WSHCC) project discussed at recent meetings, and one number in particular keeps coming up: an estimated $1.7 million annual operating cost to the city once the project is fully implemented. While the proposal’s goals include improving services and responding to community needs, many residents are understandably asking what that figure could mean for their own property tax bills and for the city’s long-term finances. This is especially important because the WSHCC is only one of four projects with the potential to increase real estate taxes substantially.
Affordable housing is a frequent rallying cry among our leaders
In Fairfax City, affordable housing is a frequent rallying cry among our leaders. Mayor Catherine Read has repeatedly emphasized its importance to the City’s vitality and long-term growth. She’s championed diversified housing types, supportive projects like Beacon Landing, and even sought legislative changes to help religious institutions build affordable units. Those are worthy goals — but they ring hollow if other City actions make living here increasingly unaffordable.
The Willard-Sherwood Health and Community Center: A Nice-to-Have Project?
After the Council’s vote to increase the real estate tax rate to $1.055 last spring, many residents are taking a more critical look at which recommended capital improvements are “nice-to-have” projects, such as the extensive recreational component of the Willard-Sherwood Health and Community Center, and which are “must-have” projects, such as replacing the high school roof and renovating the elementary schools.
Restaurant
Fairfax County’s New Meals Tax
If grabbing dinner out is one of your small joys in life, Fairfax County has a gentle reminder for you: starting January 1, 2026, eating out will cost just a little bit more - a new 4% Food and Beverage Tax - better known as the meals tax goes into effect.
Government
New Virginia Laws Take Effect in 2026, Bringing Changes to Wages, Health Care, and Consumer Protections
Virginia residents rang in 2026 under a slate of new state laws that touch nearly every aspect of daily life—from paychecks and health care access to digital privacy and public safety. Most of the legislation approved by the General Assembly during the previous session took effect January 1, with additional reforms scheduled for later in the year.
News
Old Glory DC Brings Big-Time Rugby to Fairfax
Rugby fans across the DMV have something huge to cheer about: Old Glory DC is officially bringing all 2026 home games to George Mason University in Fairfax—and the move promises to energize not just the team, but the entire region. “This is a milestone in our community. The first pro sports team in Fairfax since 1976. When the NASL’s Washington Diplomat played at Woodson High School,” city resident, Chap Petersen continued “as a long-time rugby player, I am very excited to see OG drop anchor here.”
High School
Fairfax High Field Hockey Lions Roar With Domination
The Fairfax High School field hockey team has been nothing short of spectacular this season, asserting themselves as one of the most dominant forces in the Patriot Region. Through a combination of skill, cohesion, and unshakeable focus, the Lions have built an 18‑5 overall record, and an unblemished 9‑0 mark in the Patriot Region, putting them firmly in the conversation as serious state‑playoff contenders.
Election
Virginia Governor’s Race | Debate 2025
Voters across Virginia will get their only chance to see the two major candidates for governor share a stage this week when Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears meet for a live, televised debate on Wednesday, October 9, at Norfolk State University. The hour-long debate, hosted by WAVY-TV 10 in partnership with WRIC-TV 8 and other Nexstar Media Group stations, is expected to reach more than four million viewers statewide. Moderators Tom Schaad of WAVY and Deanna Allbrittin of WRIC will lead the discussion, focusing on issues facing Virginia families, education, the economy, and public safety.
Council
Council Misled on George Snyder Trail Cancellation Payback Terms
A vote to build the George Snyder Trail (GST) was pushed through last June despite significant community and Council opposition. Whatever your position on the project, you may be interested to learn that the June vote was based on misinformation. Council had been told by the acting city manager and his staff, in no uncertain terms, that the City would have to pay back $3.7 million if the project was canceled. This is simply not true.
