The Virginia Railway Express Operations Board today unanimously approved a slate of officers for 2021. Installation of the new officers will take place at the board’s January 15 meeting.
City of Alexandria Vice Mayor Elizabeth Bennett-Parker will chair the 15-member Operations Board. Bennett-Parker, who joined the board in 2019, served as vice-chair this past year. She represents the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC).
Prince William County Supervisor Jeannine Lawson will serve as vice-chair. Lawson, who was first appointed to the Operations Board as an alternate in 2015, became a board member in 2019. She served as board secretary this past year. Lawson represents the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC).
Fairfax County Supervisor James Walkinshaw will serve as secretary. Walkinshaw joined the Operations Board in 2020 and served as treasurer in his inaugural year. He represents NVTC.
City of Manassas Park Vice Mayor Preston Banks will serve as treasurer. Banks was appointed to the Operations Board in 2019. He represents PRTC.
VRE’s bylaws stipulate its parent commissions, NVTC and PRTC, provide two officers from among its Operations Board members. The offices of the chair and vice-chair may not be held at the same time by members representing the same jurisdiction or the same appointing commission. The office of chair rotates each year between the two commissions.
The 13th largest commuter rail service in the U.S., VRE is a transportation partnership of the Northern Virginia and the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commissions. The 4.5 million rides the railroad provides annually remove some 100 million vehicle miles from Northern Virginia’s interstates.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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