Join the Patriot Club, George Mason Alumni Association, and MasonRVA for an electrifying pre-game pep rally at the Henrico Sports and Events Center! Let’s gather an hour before tip-off to pump up our spirits and cheer on our Women’s team as they battle it out in the A10 tournament. 🙌
🗓 Date: Friday, March 8
⏰ Pep Rally: 12:30 p.m. (One hour before the game)
🎟 Remember: The pep rally is free, but you’ll need a game ticket to enter.
Our Women’s team is entering the championship with an impressive 14-4 conference record, securing the fourth seed and a double-bye into the Quarterfinals. They’ll face off against the winner of game 4 (Duquesne/La Salle/UMass) at 1:30 p.m.
Don’t miss out on this momentous occasion to support our team and show your Patriot pride! 🌟 Be there to witness history in the making at the newly built Henrico Sports and Events Center. Let’s make some noise and cheer our team to victory! 💪
From: George Mason University Office of Alumni Relations
We’re writing to let you know that we are going to postpone the Mason Nation event at the Old City Bar on Wednesday, March 6. We’ve heard from enough alumni that the date and time of the reception don’t work, so we are going to reschedule it for late summer/early fall.
Please help us cheer our Women’s team on to victory in the A10 tournament on Friday, March 8 at 1:30 p.m. in the Henrico Sports and Entertainment Center. We will host a pre-game pep rally one hour before the game at the arena. The pep rally is free to attend, but you must have a game ticket to enter the building. You canpurchase tickets here through Mason Athletics.
We want to start by offering our sincere apologies for the recent change in plans. We did not hear from enough of you to proceed with our initial formal arrangements. However, we still would like to meet up with fans coming into town for the game.
Breweries in Scott’s Addition
Despite the change, we’re excited to facilitate Mason Nation fans getting together. We are still going to grab lunch at ZZQ at noon and then plan to join others coming down early to visit some fantastic breweries in Scott’s Addition. Richmond’s craft beer scene is thriving, and we invite you to join us in savoring exceptional brews and connecting with fellow Mason Nation enthusiasts.
Casual Meetup and Tavern Gathering
To keep things flexible and enjoyable, we won’t be providing formal transportation or specific plans. Instead, we’ll be posting our location on [X] @MasonRVA. If you’d like to join us, simply drop by and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Richmond. Later on, we’ll head to the Tavern for a pre-game gathering, where you can meet up with other Mason Nation fans, share your game-day excitement, and enjoy the camaraderie.
We may have had to adjust our plans, but we believe this approach will allow everyone to have a fantastic time in Richmond.
Please stay tuned for updates on [X], and if you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Once again, we apologize for the change and look forward to celebrating the game day spirit with you.
For all the Mason Nation basketball fans out there, MasonRVA always looks forward to hosting you when the Men’s Basketball team comes to town to face VCU or the University of Richmond. However, if you’re attending a late Saturday game, why not make the most of your visit by exploring more of what Richmond has to offer?
This year, MasonRVA would like to extend an invitation to join us for lunch at noon at ZZQ Barbecue. ZZQ is renowned by many as the BEST TEXAS BBQ on the East Coast and has become a must-visit spot for BBQ enthusiasts driving through Richmond. Texas Monthly even featured ZZQ!
Keep reading for more about ZZQ, Scotts Addition, the Richmond Beer Trail, pre-game at the Tavern and an opportunity for Transportation to and from the game from a convenient parking location near I-95 / I-64.
Richmond: More Than Just VCU – A Food and Beer Lover’s Paradise (and a nice place to live)
Richmond, Virginia, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. Once known primarily by Mason Nation as the host city for the CAA Tournament and home to VCU fans, it has evolved into a destination city for food enthusiasts, craft beer, cider, and spirit lovers. Moreover, since the pandemic and the rise of remote work, it seems like half of Northern Virginia has decided to call Richmond home. In this blog post, we’ll explore the changing face of Richmond and an exciting opportunity for Mason Nation fans.
Richmond, often referred to as the River City, has seen a remarkable shift in recent years. It’s no longer just about the CAA Tournament and VCU. Before the pandemic, Richmond was gaining fame as a culinary and craft beverage hotspot. From its diverse array of restaurants to its flourishing craft beer scene, Richmond has something for every foodie and beverage aficionado.
One neighborhood that has exemplified this transformation is Scott’s Addition. A decade ago, this area was filled with empty warehouses and was considered unsafe to walk through at night. Today, it’s the beating heart of The Richmond’s Beer Trail. Those once-empty warehouses are now some of the most sought-after apartments and condos in the city.
Located in Scott’s Addition, ZZQ Barbecue has played a significant role in revitalizing this once-neglected neighborhood. Their mouthwatering barbecue offerings are a testament to the culinary transformation Richmond has undergone.
After a delicious lunch at ZZQ, we’ll embark on a leisurely stroll to explore 2-3 nearby breweries. Richmond’s craft beer scene is booming, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste some exceptional brews. If beer isn’t your thing, don’t worry, Scott’s Addition has plenty more to offer. Check out what else you can do here.
Following our brewery tour, we’ll make our way to the Tavern for the “official” pre-game gathering, starting at 3:30. It’s the perfect opportunity to mingle with fellow Mason Nation fans and share your excitement for the game.
For those interested in convenience, MasonRVA will provide transportation* in a 12-15 passenger van from a meeting spot near ZZQ to the Tavern, the Robbins Center (the game venue), and back. If you’re planning to stay the night, we’ll even drop you off at a hotel. (*subject to enough interest)
Reserve your spot for transportation here, and ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience during your visit to Richmond.
Richmond is no longer just a place to visit for basketball games; it’s a city that has embraced a vibrant food scene, craft beverages, and a thriving community. Join MasonRVA, and let’s make your next visit to Richmond a memorable one. Experience the new face of this remarkable city, both on and off the court.
Hey everyone! 🎉 Just a quick reminder about tonight’s MasonRVA Festivus Happy Hour! 🍻 Don’t forget to bring a small gift (less than $5) for our White Elephant gift exchange – it’s always a blast! 🐘🎁
If you’re wondering where to find us, no worries! I’ll make sure to let the host at the front door know where we’ll be, so you can join in on the fun. Looking forward to seeing you all there! 🥳
📅 Date: Wednesday, December 20, 2023 🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM 📍 Location: Capitol Ale House, Downtown Richmond
🎉 Join MasonRVA for a Festivus Happy Hour and White Elephant Gift Exchange! 🎁
📅 Date: Wednesday, December 20, 2023 🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM 📍 Location: Capitol Ale House, Downtown Richmond
‘Tis the season to celebrate with fellow Mason alumni in Richmond! 🎄 Get into the holiday spirit and join us for a special Festivus-themed Happy Hour at Capitol Ale House.
Here are the details:
🎁 White Elephant Gift Exchange: Bring a wrapped gift valued under $5 for our hilarious White Elephant Gift Exchange. It’s the perfect way to share some laughs and spread holiday cheer!
🍻 Happy Hour Specials: Enjoy exclusive drink specials and delicious food options at Capitol Ale House while catching up with old friends and making new connections.
🎉 Networking and Fun: Connect with fellow alumni, share your favorite Mason memories, and hear exciting updates about the university.
Don’t miss out on this festive gathering of Mason alumni in Richmond! It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the holidays, exchange gifts, and enjoy the company of your Mason family.
Please RSVP to help us plan accordingly. We look forward to seeing you there!
The Mason Men’s Basketball Team is heading to #10 Tennessee for their biggest test of the year so fare. Coming of a good road win in Toledo, the team is 7 – 1 and ranks in the top 100 on Kenpom (#92 currently), a place we haven’t been at this point in the season in about ten years.
Since the game is on ESPN+, to make sure we have access to the game, I am going to host the watch party at my house. I have a 60″ TV, plenty of chairs and will make sure I have a few cold beverages and snacks on hand (or feel free to BYOB).
Be sure to check back for more details, updates, and more events, but here are the events we have on the calendar so far! TBD locations for MasonRVA events will be determined based on your feedback. Look for a survey to be posted soon.
Date
Time
Where
Event
Tue, Dec 5, 2023
6:30 – 8:30pm
TBD
MasonMBB @ 7 UTenn Watch Party – The men are looking good so far this season with Final Four guard Tony Skinn as a first year coach. The team plays hard and they can score. Not sure we are ready for a top team 10 yet, but it will be fun Livin’ on a Prayer again!
Wed, Dec 20, 2023
5:00 – 6:30pm
TBD
Happy Hour – Festivus Edition. Bring a gift (under $5) for a White Elephant Gift Exchange. (2nd Wed moved one week due to conflicts on 12/13)
Tue, Jan 9, 2024
4:00 – 11pm
Car/Van Pool from RVA
MasonMBB vs VCU Road Trip – If you live in Richmond, there is a good chance your significant other may be a VCU alum. All are welcome to ride with us so witness the beat down of VCU in Fairfax.
Wed, Jan 10, 2024
5:00 – 6:30pm
TBD
2nd Wednesday Happy Hour
Sat Jan 13, 2024
12:00 – 3:00pm
Scotts Addition, Richmond
MasonRVA Lunch & Brewery Tour – All Mason Alumni and their family & friends welcome.
Student Sendoff – My favorite event every year. Meet the future Mason alumni and their parents from Richmond who will never return because they will get jobs in the DMV.
Help the Central Virginia community this year by bringing non-perishable donations to City Stadium from 5:00-8:00pm or donate online until 11:59pm, Sep 13, 2023, and help the Mason Alumni Network in Richmond BEAT VCU again! We challenge our alumni friends in Fairfax and beyond to help out!
11th Annual Alumni Charity Challenge to support FeedMore!
Copyright: James H Loving 2017
And while your in the giving mood, take a few minutes to visit Give Mason page and make your annual donation of $25 or more (great habit to get into like changing your batteries in your fire detectors when we change our clocks an hour to spring forward or fall back).
Looking forward to seeing you on September 13th and with your help, lets BEAT VCU! (and the Hokies, Wahoos, Dukes, Tribe, Spiders, etc.)
HISTORY OF THE ALUMNI CHARITY CHALLENGE
The Alumni Charity Challenge was established in 2013 by the VCU Alumni Chapter with Mason Alumni Network in Richmond (#MasonRVA) one of only seven alumni chapters in attendance on a cool rainy day. Over the last 10 years, the challenge has grown to include over 40 alumni chapters and collecting more than 797,000 pounds of canned goods. Feed More collects, prepares and distributes food to neighbors in need across 29 counties and five cities in Central Virginia. This year 34 schools will be represented and we have the goal to collectively raise 150,000 pounds of food (75 tons).
Despite the rain in 2013, Mason Alumni embarrassed VCU alumni and then did it again in 2014 on their own turf in Richmond (RVA) by donating nearly twice as much food as all other local alumni chapters combined, In 2015, 2016 & 2017 Mason Alumni finished 2nd or 3rd behind VCU and/or Virginia Tech alumni. In 2018 with the addition of online giving and out-of-state schools, the big boys from the Big 10 came to play and took the top spots, but Mason reclaimed the top bragging rights for Virginia schools. This year is the first year since the pandemic MasonRVA has participated in the Challenge since the pandemic. We know we are #1 in Virginia so let’s do it again this year and see if we can beat the “big boys” like we did in 2006!
Join us for pregame @ Pies & Pintsfrom 5 – 6:30pm! Tables will be reserved and pizza will be provide by MasonRVA. Pies & Pints has great pizza and over 30 beers on tap that change daily (see drinks menu). Wine by the glass, as well as bottled beer, cider, seltzers & spirit cocktails are available as well.
Where to Park
There should be plenty of street parking between Pies and Pint and the Siegel Center on West Broad and back into the neighborhood between West Broad and W Grace St. The earlier your arrive the better chance you will have of finding a convenient space on the street. West Broad Street will be busy and well lit before and after the game. The area near Lowe’s usually has street parking early if you want a shorter walk after the game and they even have the best markings on disabled spots thanks to resources from https://carparkmarkings.co.uk/disabled-bay-marking-installer
MASON MAIL 2/16 – #RockWithUs at the Siegel Center as George Mason Men’s Basketball battles VCU for a rematch on Feb. 23th at 7pm. Limited Tickets are available for the match up. Tickets will be located in section 36 and will be available for $25. Tickets can be purchased by signing into your George Mason Account Manager or by calling the Athletic Ticket Office at 703-993-3270.
Nearby Scotts Addition is home to 10 breweries, 3 cideries, 1 meadery, 4 distilleries and 1 winery in just 7×7 blocks (last count). Richmond is also a foodie town and some of our best restaurants can be found in Scott’s Addition (ZZQ is a destination for BBQ lovers). There are also arcades, bowling alleys, shuffleboard, top golf, etc. for family fun. In fact, Richmond is growing so fast, my 2019 post is already way out-of-date, so I found two two links that will help you plan your day for when you are “working”.
