It’s been a busy few weeks here in the Fortieth. Apologies for the delayed update as I had spent two weeks on Reserve Duty (more below). We’re all excited by the progress we are making toward reopening. Do please encourage friends and family who have not been vaccinated to get a vaccine!
Events and Meetings
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit some of the vaccine clinics located in the Fortieth District. I first stopped by the Korean Central Presbyterian Church’s vaccine clinic, where I presented the church with a commending resolution in their honor. The Korean Central Presbyterian Church has consistently gone above and beyond to serve members of our community, especially during the pandemic. Next, I visited Mt. Olive Baptist Church’s clinic, where volunteers and staff are working hard to provide our neighbors with the opportunity to get vaccinated. Our district is so fortunate to have these community partners helping to bolster Virginia’s vaccination efforts.
In late May, I headed to West Point for an active duty tour with the US Army Reserve. For two weeks I served as a Reserve Instructor, teaching a course on International Relations. I was proud to spend this time helping a new generation of military leaders develop a deeper understanding of the world they will serve in.
This past weekend, I was able to resume knocking on doors and chatting with neighbors about our vision for the Commonwealth. It was great to hear directly from voters about the issues they care about — and a special thank you to our incredible volunteers who are helping to get our message out in the Fortieth District. If you would like to hear more about the opportunities to get involved with our campaign, please contact payton@danhelmer.com.
On Tuesday, I cast my vote in Virginia’s primary elections, and had the chance to visit some of the election sites in the Fortieth along the way. These poll workers and volunteers worked incredibly hard to ensure that Election Day went smoothly and I am so grateful for their help.
Join us next Saturday for a Day of Action! With the primaries now over, it is important that we are talking to more people to learn about what issues are on people’s minds. As one of the key districts in the House of Delegates elections this year, every conversation with our neighbors can make a difference.
Come by Manna Bistro & Bakery next Saturday at 10AM to learn about what our campaign has been up to, to meet other supporters, and to help talk to voters across the 40th District. Sign up here: bit.ly/H4VA-619
Transportation Updates
Progress is moving along on both the Popes Head Road Interchange and the widening of Route 29 (from Union Mill Rd to Buckleys Gate Dr). The right of way acquisition on these projects are slated to begin later this summer or early fall.
COVID Updates
As of this week, 47% of all Virginians are fully vaccinated and 56.6% have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Virginia’s 7-day moving average for new COVID cases has dropped to 176, which is the lowest average we’ve had since April of 2020. Virginia’s current 7-day positivity rate is at 2.1%. I am so encouraged by the incredible progress we’ve made in Virginia. In order to beat this virus once and for all, we need to continue increasing our vaccination numbers. If you haven’t gotten vaccinated yet, you can find the nearest vaccination site to you here — please let my office know if you need assistance.
Favorites of the Fortieth
Located in Clifton, Rosemary’s Thyme Bistro has been providing great food and hospitality since their founding in 1995. They serve a wide variety of Mediterranean food options, including homemade pasta and pizza. Rosemary’s Thyme Bistro is currently offering options for takeout, indoor and outdoor dining, and catering. I had the opportunity to stop by Rosemary’s Thyme Bistro this past weekend and loved my meal — if you would like to learn more about the restaurant, you can visit their website here.
As always, please feel free to reach out to my office if you have any concerns, questions, or need assistance with an issue. I hope you have a wonderful weekend!