Greetings, Prince William – Educate America, Inc, a nonprofit startup, is seeking volunteers ages 18+ to assist with providing after-school tutoring and mentoring services within five (5) to ten (10) Prince William County Public Schools during the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 school year. Volunteer with Educate America and make a difference in the lives of underserved youth! Your time and expertise can positively impact the academic success and personal development of our youth—contributing to brighter futures for the next generation. Volunteers will need to have background and CPS checks completed by July 15, 2024. Please join them as a volunteer, tutor, mentor, or community partner by completing and submitting the online application form(s) at educateusainc.org/now-recruiting. Questions? Please email educat…@gmail.com.

• Just In: Is a safe community important to you? The PWC Office of Community Safety is hosting an open house, “Fostering a Safe PWC Together” on May 11, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building, 15941 Donald Curtis Drive in Woodbridge. Volunteers age 16+ are needed to assist with set-up/clean-up, greeting attendees and directing traffic. You’ll feel great as you support this event which provides the public with safety resources from county government agencies, nonprofits, faith-based, community-based and charitable organizations! Please email mblo…@pwcgov.org to sign up and learn more. Note: This event is free to the public, please visit https://bit.ly/3y1B6JU for more information.
• Do you love going fishing? Brain Injury Services (BIS) is searching for a volunteer to be a PALS (Providing a Link for Survivors) for a brain injury client living in Prince William who would like to go on occasional fishing trips. PALS is a one-to-one friendship program for brain injury survivors; the program connects BIS clients with volunteers who can help them socialize in the community and rebuild social skills through friendship. You’ll feel great as you enjoy a day at your favorite fishing hole while helping a client get their life back on track following such a traumatic occurrence! Please visit braininjurysvcs.org/volunteer/ for more information, email mth…@braininjurysvcs.org to learn how you can help.
• CRi (Choice. Respect. independence) is a community-based nonprofit organization with a focus on providing personalized resources to people with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. They are currently in need of an American Sign Language (ASL) volunteer age 18+ to service the public at CRi events. This volunteer will communicate with individuals who are hearing impaired and in need of socialization with those who speak ASL. Strong skills in ASL are necessary and you’ll feel great as you share your specialized talent to help someone communicate with the public! Please email volu…@mycri.org to learn more.
• The year is speeding by, and Girls on the Run of NOVA is already preparing for their 5K Celebration being held May 18 (Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax) and May 19 (Pentagon City, Arlington)! Over 100 volunteers age 13+ are needed for all sorts of jobs like Greeters, Water Stations, Cheerleaders and more. It sounds like it will be a fantastic event and you’ll feel great as you support and encourage these youth who have been working hard to build up their fitness and confidence! Please visit https://bit.ly/3TCr3lN to sign up or visit gotrnova.org. Hurry, volunteer slots will fill up quickly!
• Here’s a “Honey” of a volunteer opportunity! The Manassas Bee Festival is coming June 22 at Liberia House, 8601 Portner Avenue, Manassas and volunteer “Worker Bees” of all ages are needed to support this fun event. Volunteers under 18 are welcome to volunteer with a responsible adult or group leader. Volunteers are needed June 21 help set up the festival at Liberia House. Then, volunteers will be needed to help with the 2K Honey Hike 8:45 a.m. on June 22 at Manassas Museum lawn and also to help on shifts during the festival on June 22. Jobs include assisting with set up, helping vendors unload, helping at the welcome tent to show the map or answer basic questions. Volunteers who sign up will get a free green t-shirt but should complete the online form at manassasbeefestival.com/contact-donations-questions/. Please be sure to indicate you are a Volunteer on the form. Please email manassasb…@gmail.com for more information.
• Gardeners, here’s a fantastic volunteer opportunity for you! PWC Office of Historic Preservation is looking for Historic Garden Volunteers to help maintain the garden at Rippon Lodge Historic Site this summer. Help is needed with planting, weeding and harvesting the fruit and vegetables. You’ll enjoy being outdoors as you help the garden illustrate what plants may have been planted by the Ellis family in a Victory garden during World War II! Please call Rippon Lodge at 703-499-9812 for more information.
• St. Thomas United Methodist Church in Manassas needs a volunteer Team Leader for their Food Pantry on Tuesdays and Fridays. Jobs include instructing volunteers on how to sort/store donated food from local grocery stores, organize items for Saturday distributions, train new volunteers and help keep the pantry organized and clean. Training provided; no experience necessary! You’ll feel great as you help this busy food pantry get prepared for their food distributions which serve up to 800 food insecure individuals each week! Please email gary…[email protected] or call 703.368.5161, ext. 122 for more information.
• Mark your calendar! Walk MS: Manassas 2024 will be held May 4 at Harris Pavilion in Manassas, and LOTS of volunteers age 15+ are needed to make this successful! Jobs include Event Set-Up, Volunteer Check-in, Route Marshals, Hydration Stations, and much more! You’ll feel great as you get involved with this community walk whose goal is to end Multiple Sclerosis (MS) forever! Please visit https://bit.ly/4cHgvut and to sign up, email cassie…@nmss.org for more information.
• The Workhouse Arts Center (WAC) in Lorton needs volunteers age 16+ to be Volunteer Artist Building Representatives (VABRs). These individuals are the first point of contact for visitors entering the artist buildings on the WAC campus. Volunteers should be friendly, willing to engage with the public and be able to share information about the WAC. Onsite training is required but is offered to accommodate the schedules of volunteers and staff. If you’re an artist or are into art, this could be a wonderful opportunity to get involved with the growing art community! Please visit https://bit.ly/3WfOF2x for more information, email volu…@workhousearts.org to learn more.

-Information submitted by Volunteer Prince William.

Stafford County Public Schools press release: Stafford County Public Schools is proud to announce the outstanding achievements of its Stafford High School competitors at the 59th SkillsUSA Virginia State Leadership Conference, held in Virginia Beach from April 19 to April 21.

The Stafford High School team showcased exceptional talent and dedication, resulting in an impressive array of medals:

Gold Medalists

• Haley White – Architectural Drafting
• Sam Chapman – Carpentry

Silver Medalist

•  Tre Gorham – Carpentry

Bronze Medalist

• Stefani Duran Cerritos – Poster
• Kayla Hamburger – Technical Drafting

As further testament to student leadership and success, Karlie Schalk has been elected to the prestigious position of SkillsUSA Virginia State Office.

Additionally, Sam Chapman and Tre Gorham served as voting delegates. In recognition of their exceptional performance, Sam Chapman, Karlie Schalk, and Haley White will represent Virginia at the upcoming 59th SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, scheduled for June.

Angela Candela, Ryan Cooper, Dan Harding, John Irby, Robert Jett, Yumi Zink, and Greg Zook, along with other instructors, accompanied and supported their students throughout the conference, playing a significant role in their success.

“It was such a pleasure to witness the achievements of Stafford High School’s students at the SkillsUSA Virginia State Leadership Conference first-hand. Their projects are a testament to their hard work, talent, and the guidance of our dedicated educators,” said Dr. Thomas W. Taylor, Superintendent. “These accomplishments also demonstrate our commitment to ensuring every student is Prepared to Excel.”

City of Manassas Press Release: The City of Manassas honored eight volunteers for their extraordinary contributions to the community in 2023 during a volunteer reception and dinner on Tuesday, April 23.

Those honored are:

• Myra Brent, a member of the Architectural Review Board, for her recent efforts to save the Cottage House on Jefferson Street, which was an original building of the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth. When she noticed that the current owner of the Cottage House was planning to demolish the structure to provide access to a new electric transmission line, she alerted City staff. Thanks to her efforts in recognizing the importance of this building, the owner will adjust the project and save the structure.
• Harriet Carter, a Beautification Committee member who has generously shared her knowledge of plants and advocated for the use of native plants in our green spaces. You can often find Harriet getting her hands dirty in gardens at Liberia, Annaburg, and the Master Gardeners Teaching Garden—which use native plants, of course—or helping to create holiday greenery baskets for Historic Downtown with her own donated greens.
• Mike Crump, a Visitor Center volunteer who takes the initiative, volunteers for special events, and contributes to the Historic Manassas, Inc. (HMI) newsletter. As a true ambassador for our City, he greets all our visitors warmly, tells them about our rich history, and promotes and recommends our local businesses and restaurants.
• Yvonne Greenberg, a Beautification Committee member who participated in 61 trash cleanups in the City last year. She not only takes to the streets for the sole purpose of collecting trash, but she makes the best use of her time and picks up trash while walking home from appointments. She also helps weed the garden at Annaburg Manor and Liberia House and lends a hand beautifying downtown businesses with plants and flowers.
• Robyn Johnson, who, as a member of the Advisory Board to Social Services, engaged local faith leaders, participated in shelter training, and supported Child Abuse Prevention Month and Christmas in July events. She supports Social Services in its goal of helping Manassas residents achieve safety, independence, and overall well-being by connecting with people from all walks of life and creating a positive and inclusive community atmosphere, whether as a Board member, church member, or Delta Sigma Theta sorority volunteer.
• For over 15 years, Pete Rockx has answered calls as an Emergency Medical Technician, served in various administrative roles, and has had a hand in managing almost every need the Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad has faced. He managed the renovation of Hutton Hall, and the transition of operations from Center Street–where the Squad had been since the 1960s–to the new Fire and Rescue Station on Dumfries Road. He is not only ready to fill in for others, but he is ready with a wrench to fix leaking water fountains, and a shovel to landscape the grounds.
• Ross Snare, IV, Chair of the Airport Commission, Manassas Business Council, Treasurer of HMI, and ex officio member of the Economic Development Authority, helps organize and align the resources of outside employers and non-profits. His engagement with some of the City’s most critical and active economic development-related committees brings resources and work plans into better alignment.
• Sheila Sunday, a Manassas Museum volunteer, is the face of the City for visitors from all over the world, guiding visitors to Museum resources and also destinations throughout the City. Her enthusiasm for greeting and orienting visitors to the Museum’s new spaces, and her willingness to help with additional projects or tasks makes her a role model for other volunteers.

The annual Volunteer Reception honors volunteers who support the City in a variety of roles. About 200 volunteers attended, representing various boards, commissions and committees, those assisting with the Police and Fire and Rescue Departments, and those working on Beautification, Parks, Culture and Recreation initiatives.

Prince William Police Department incident report: On April 21 at 10:10 p.m., crash investigators responded to the Red Roof Inn located at 10610 Automotive Drive in Manassas to investigate a hit-and-run crash.

The investigation revealed the victim, a 51-year-old man, and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were involved in a physical altercation in the parking lot of the motel.

The encounter escalated when the accused intentionally drove towards the victim and struck him with the vehicle before fleeing the area. The victim was treated at an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Michael Lee BEACH, was arrested. Arrested on April 22: Michael Lee BEACH, 53, of no fixed address. Charged with aggravated malicious wounding, felony hit & run, and assault & battery. Court Date: Pending | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond.

The commercial space at 610 Caroline Street is starting to show life, beginning with a new neon “Bistro,” sign in the front window. In early May, the new tenant “Always Flavored,” will complete their move from the current location on Princess Anne Street, giving the Fredericksburg dining crowd another option but this time adding beer and wine.

• If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
  • Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
  • Our Local Spotlight Membership is perfect for businesses and non-profits to increase sales, donations, and branding awareness in the community.
  • Sign in here if you're already a member, and Thank You!

On Friday, May 10, Dumfries will celebrate the 275th anniversary of the original charter for Dumfries. 

The festivities will begin May 10 with a sold-out black-tie dinner at the National Museum for the Marine Corps. The dinner will have keynote speeches by local dignitaries, historical presentations on Dumfries’ intriguing history as a port town, and a commemorative program. The keynote speaker has yet to be announced.  

A family-friendly festival on May 11 and 12 at Garrison Park, behind the town hall, will include free historical tours,  re-enactors, and music, food, and vendors.  The  festival is free to attend.

Dumfries has previously held annual celebrations of Charter Day. The town’s original charter date is May 11, 1749. Much of the town’s colonial history has been lost over the years. The town was once a major east coast seaport and the early center of Prince William County’s’ government, economy, and social activities.

This year’s theme, “Rediscover Dumfries: Our Past, Present, and Future,” aims to highlight Dumfries’s journey through a curated selection of individuals, landmarks, and stories representing the town’s spirit and resilience. According to the council, the gala and celebration activities will honor Dumfries’ rich history and will also assist in the ongoing economic revitalization efforts.

The town’s website shows the 2024 Budget includes a budget of $197,5000 for Special Events for the newly created Office of Civic Engagement. The event will be primarily funded through a combination of taxpayer funds and private sponsorship, which Mayor Derrick Wood believes with emphasize the town council’s commitment to responsible fiscal management and community partnerships. 

The town manager Tangela Innis, in her letter published in the 2024 budget, notes the Civic Engagement office “will begin to fulfill the need for public services throughout more community events, free vaccination clinics, a new Farmer’s Market…and partnerships with [Prince William Parks & Recreations] to provide for after school activities.” She notes the 275th anniversary celebration is a one-time funding plan.

The 2024 budget also reports Dumfries’ population has a median income of $71,784 with 14.1% of persons in poverty. In her letter, Innis stated the desire to “Create an inclusive and financially sustainable environment where residents of all ages and backgrounds have access to quality housing, essential services, employment, and recreational opportunities”.

The council notes they have taken several steps to ensure taxpayer dollars are utilized efficiently for the celebrations, including using existing resources to minimize rental costs; encouraging volunteers to boost community spirit while lowering labor costs; and using transparent competitive bidding for services.

Tickets to the May 10 gala are $100 As of April 25, the event website states they are sold out. 

Sarah Romero contributed to this article.

Kelly Sienkowski is a freelance reporter for Potomac Local News.

The checkerboard tower next to the train station in downtown Fredericksburg is getting a makeover that will say less “Purina,” and more “upgrade,” as officials go with a blue checkerboard pattern and “Welcome to Fredericksburg.”

• If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
  • Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
  • Our Local Spotlight Membership is perfect for businesses and non-profits to increase sales, donations, and branding awareness in the community.
  • Sign in here if you're already a member, and Thank You!

Prince William Parks and Recreation sponsors today’s weather forecast.

Summer Job Alert: Parks and Recreation Hiring Seasonal Workers Now! Want to earn some extra cash this summer and enjoy your job at the same time? PWC Parks and Recreation is now hiring for seasonal jobs.. Camp Counselors, Lifeguards, Cooks and more…

As we head into the weekend, we can expect a mix of weather patterns, with a gradual transition from cooler temperatures to a significant warm-up.

Starting today, a surface high-pressure system will shift southward along the eastern Appalachians, bringing cooler temperatures and increased cloud cover. While morning cloudiness is expected, especially west of U.S. 15, the afternoon promises more sunshine, with temperatures reaching the low to mid-60s. Tonight, temperatures will not drop as low as previous nights, settling in the low to mid-40s.

Moving into Saturday, a weak mid-level disturbance combined with a warm front lifting through the area will result in scattered showers, particularly west of U.S. 15. Cloudy conditions are expected, with temperatures slightly cooler in the upper 50s to low 60s. Saturday night will be milder, with lows in the 50s.

Sunday marks a significant change as deep ridging dominates much of the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, ushering in dry, partly cloudy, and notably warmer conditions. Highs are expected to soar into the low to mid-80s, approximately 20-25 degrees higher than Saturday. While there’s a chance for isolated showers or thunderstorms west of the Blue Ridge in the afternoon, any convective activity will be short-lived due to dry low-levels and deep mixing. Sunday night will remain mild, with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s to low 60s.

Looking ahead to the start of the new week, Monday promises sunny skies and even warmer temperatures, with highs reaching around 90 degrees.