MANASSAS, Va. — After more than two decades of research, Gainesville writer Linda S. Johnston held a launch party for her new book, Hope Amid Hardship: Pioneer Voices from the Kansas Territory (TwoDot Books/Globe Pequot Press) on Aug. 17 in the Merchant Gallery at the Candy Factory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas.
Hope Amid Hardship brings together the reflections of 60 Kansas pioneers of different ages, backgrounds, and outlooks who helped shape the identity of the Sunflower State. Despite the challenges of loneliness, drought, and political turmoil, many found and wrote about joy and beauty in their adopted communities. Their words describe the times that gave them reason to sing, dance, and celebrate-moments when their burdens were lighter. The book includes Johnston’s watercolor illustrations.
Johnston will be working with youth on a journaling activity and selling her book at The Manassas Museum during the Civil War Weekend commemoration, August 24 and 25 in Manassas.
Recent Stories
Mayor Derrick R. Wood outlined a bold and hopeful vision for the future of Dumfries during his annual State of the Town Address on June 5, 2025.
STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County has quietly ended its contract with PulsePoint, a mobile app that alerts nearby users when someone in a public space is experiencing cardiac arrest and may need CPR. The decision marks the conclusion of an eight-year relationship with the public safety technology.
Stafford County Public Schools is moving ahead with plans to eliminate artificial food dyes from school meals, following the signing of a new state law that will ban certain synthetic color additives by 2027.
On the last weekend in May, most Stafford families were abuzz with the excitement of summer’s arrival. The Allwine family was abuzz with excitement over the annual AA Farm Honey harvest.
Looking for art opportunities in the DMV? ArtsFairfax.org is your online destination to find and promote artist calls in and around Fairfax. Our Artist Calls directory is always free to use and highlights opportunities to audition, exhibit artwork, or secure commissions. Be sure to check out ArtsFairfax Artist Calls on an ongoing basis – new opportunities are added every week.
In addition to a dozen or so Artist Calls from throughout the region, ArtsFairfax is proud to host the following:
Fairfax250 RV Wrap
For illustrators, visual artists, and graphic designers, we are working with the Fairfax250 Commission to wrap a 37’-long RV that will travel to hundreds of events across Fairfax County. A signage company will handle the installation – all we need is the design. See your art on this rolling billboard all year long!
On June 20th, 2025, Woodbridge Rotary Club will be holding our 21st annual charity golf tournament. This tournament is in memory of two of our past Presidents and valued members of the community. Joe Devaney passed away March 22, 2005 and a few years ago, Bill O’Hop passed away barely a week after playing in this tournament in 2015. Both Joe and Bill were each other’s best friends and they both loved golf! Please help us pay tribute to our dear friends by participating in this tournament and helping us to support our local and international charities. If you are interested in golfing, sponsoring, donating a door prize and/or know someone who is, please contact us (Mark Worrilow [email protected] or 703-244-8702). Signing up is also possible using the QR code.
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
