Mason's Back ... And Welcome!

This morning Kerry and I took our long walk through George Mason's campus. We're fortunate to live close by, especially when we can see the new students - all ready to take on the world  - move in. There is a certainly a new since of purpose for the university with new President Dr. Angel Cabrera's arrival. Not to take away anything from former president Dr. Alan Merten, but let's face it, it's pretty cool to have a university president who tweets. Seriously - that is just something you don't see everyday.

It's fair to say that Mason and the City of Fairfax have had a push and pull existence. If not for the City (then town) of Fairfax there would be no George Mason University as we donated the land for the campus. And the university has given back, too, in the form of bringing jobs, prestige and of course a Final Four appearance to the City. That said, there have been times when we didn't see eye to eye. But that is all in the past and we are now looking forward.

As an indicator of that, the City held its first ever welcome back BBQ at City Hall for first year students to meet with the Mayor, members of Council, staff from Mason and the City and the community. We had a great time. Food - provided by Pelano's, Red Hot and Blue and Jersey Mike's - was fantastic and the band - HariKaraoke - was a blast, with them providing the music and members of the crowd providing the words. Councilman Michael DeMarco and I even got in the act, singing a duet of John Denver's "Country Roads." Sounded pretty good actually; although my daughter Sadie couldn't decide if she was excited or embarrassed.

The event was a great start to the school year and a new beginning to a relationship between the City and Mason, one that will be made stronger with respect, cooperation and support for our community and students alike.

Let's go Patriots! (except when they are playing the ODU Monarchs)