Join

Workhouse Holds Second Arts Gala

Paul Berry and Sally Merten at the Gala cocktail reception. (Submitted photo)

LORTON, Va. — The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton held its second annual Arts Gala on Saturday.

The event is held to celebrate the artistic and cultural significance of a bustling arts center near Occoquan. Here are some snippets from a press release about the event that featured former WJLA-TV anchor Paul Berry as the Master of Ceremonies.

-The evening began with guests mingling at a cocktail reception that included decadent hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction, full of community donations and Workhouse artists’ work. From there, they moved to an elegant dinner upstairs in the McGuireWoods Gallery, featuring filet mignon and seared mahi mahi.

-Dinner entertainment included an awards presentation and live auction, featuring a Nascar Experience hosted by a Sprint Cup team owner and a custom oil portrait from one of the Workhouse Arts Center’s exceptional artists, Patricia McMahon Rice

-Musical entertainment was provided by the Johnny Artis Band, a favorite local rock and roll/rhythm and blues band. Throughout the evening, guests were able to meet the Workhouse Art Center’s outstanding artists and view their work.

-The evening’s Honorary Chairman Dr. Alan G. Merten, President Emeritus of George Mason University (GMU), was honored for his outstanding commitment to GMU, as well as to the arts at GMU and throughout Fairfax County.

-During dinner, [Fairfax County] Mount Vernon District Supervisor, Gerald W. Hyland, was presented the Lorton Arts Foundation (LAF) Founders Award by LAF Board Chairman Richard Hausler. The award was presented on behalf of the Workhouse community with appreciation and respect for Hyland’s steadfast support of LAF and the Workhouse Arts Center.

 

Recent Stories

Prince William County Supervisors on Tuesday night approved a plan to rezone more than 60 acres of the Manassas Mall property, clearing the way for more than 1,000 new apartments, commercial storefronts, and pedestrian promenades to replace large areas of underused parking lots.

Stafford County supports Option C, a proposed new Rappahannock River crossing that promises to reduce traffic and connect Stafford with Fredericksburg, without relying on I-95.

A fake water advisory notice found on residents’ doors in North Stafford has prompted concern and an investigation by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.

With its pastel earrings, woodland-themed accessories, and shelves full of colorful handmade creations, To Bee is more than just Occoquan’s new gift shop — it’s a deeply personal tribute to love, loss, and artistic resilience.

The most anticipated night of the year is almost here! This Saturday, May 31, step into the romance, elegance, and charm of Paris—without ever leaving Washington, DC.

Join us for An Evening in Paris, an unforgettable soirĂ©e celebrating the best of French culture. Experience an immersive evening filled with gourmet French cuisine, refined wines, captivating live music, and the irresistible ambiance of the City of Light. Whether you’re a lifelong Francophile or simply love a night of sophistication, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

✨ Highlights of the evening include:

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Your Weight Matters National Convention

Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.

This unique Convention truly has something

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has

Ă—

Subscribe to our mailing list