The Governor instructed that tomorrow Fairfax County will join the rest of the state in Phase I of Forward Virginia. He also directed a mask requirement in indoor public places. Below, I detail what this means for residents and businesses and connect you with the best resources on these topics.

 

Moving the first phase is an important step to relieving the financial stress on many residents and businesses. But I'm not ignorant to the fact that reopening brings a number of fears and risks for many, including our vulnerable communities and simply those who don't feel comfortable going back to work. You can find resources on testing, food assistance, and financial assistance in Tuesday's newsletter. Our decisions will continue to be guided by the data to make adjustments with public health and safety at the center.

 

That said, I want to reiterate that reopening does not mean COVID-19 is gone nor is it safe to return to "normal". We have lost 100,000 Americans to this disease and sadly that number will continue to increase. But you can still act to protect yourself, your loved ones, and honor the memories of those we have lost. Please continue to stay home as much as possible, wash your hands (using hand sanitizer if you aren't able), sneeze and cough into your sleeve, social distance, and wear a mask. These are the best tools we have to fight this virus and move forward.

 

See below for the full May 28 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.