To the Fairfax County Community,

Today, the Governor announced more details on his Forward Virginia Blueprint to re-open the Commonwealth. The details can be read below. Though it is exciting to see a plan ahead, it is not a declaration that things will go back to "normal". It is an easing of restrictions and a plan to slowly re-introduce certain activities into our lives when needed. "Life" will not be as it was pre-coronavirus for many more months. Just because there are parts of the economy re-opening, does not mean you should or have to go out. It will still be safer to stay home.

As I noted last week, Fairfax County saw a spike in cases. We are in the exponential growth period of our epidemic curve and will see more cases and deaths in the coming weeks. I encourage you to not change what you are doing. We can't see our friends and go to concerts yet, that's the reality.

I know this ask isn't getting easier. We are all ready for this to be over. My family and I are not immune to the stress that comes with balancing working from home while helping our kids with distance learning. Honestly, it's all difficult, but we have to do it.

See below for the full May 4 edition. For the resources mentioned in past newsletters, visit my website. If you have a friend who would like to sign up for this newsletter, they can do so here.