Author: James Jarvis

James Jarvis covers county government, local politics, schools business openings, and development for both FFXnow and ARLnow. Originally from Fauquier County, he earned his bachelor’s degree in government from Franklin & Marshall College and his master’s degree in journalism from Georgetown University. Previously, he reported on Fairfax, Prince William, and Fauquier counties for Rappahannock Media/InsideNoVa. He joined the ARLnow news team as an assistant editor in August 2023.

News

Mason District’s new supervisor to focus on pedestrian safety and economic growth in first term

By James Jarvis
Supervisor Andres Jimenez (courtesy of Andres Jimenez)

For the first time this century, Fairfax County’s Mason District has a new supervisor.

In his first week since succeeding Penny Gross, who retired in December after 27 years in the position, Andres Jimenez says he has been actively engaging with constituents to tackle issues ranging from transportation to art projects and economic development.

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Around Town

Jersey Mike’s Subs and another Starbucks appear to be coming to Kingstowne

By James Jarvis
Ledo Pizza & Pub and My Gym in Kingstowne shopping center (staff photo by James Jarvis)

Jersey Mike’s Subs and a new Starbucks location are slated to open in Kingstowne Towne Center (5890 Kingstowne Center) this year.

The national chains — renowned for their fast-casual, cold-cut sandwiches and coffee, respectively — have both filed for permits adjacent to each other in a section of the shopping center currently home to Ledo Pizza & Pub and the youth gymnastics company, My Gym.

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Around Town

District Taco tries out different look for new restaurant in West Springfield

By James Jarvis
A new District Taco has opened in the Old Keene Mill Shopping Center (staff photo by James Jarvis)

A new District Taco quietly opened its doors last fall in the Old Keene Mill Shopping Center.

The Mexican-inspired fast-casual chain began welcoming customers at its West Springfield location in September 2023,  according to a spokesperson for District Taco.

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Countywide

First Hike Fairfax contest offers $100 gift cards for top photos of county trails

By James Jarvis
Walkers turn corner of Ellanor C. Lawrence Park trail (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

To kick off the new year, the Fairfax County Park Foundation is offering hikers gift cards ranging from $75 to $100 for their best photos of local trails.

This upcoming Monday, Jan. 1, hikers are invited to snap pictures while exploring any of the county’s 334 miles of trails.

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