Author: Mauriah Church-Barbour

Schools

Stafford schools assess road conditions ahead of possible return to class

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Stafford County Public Schools officials say school buildings are in good condition following recent weather, but lingering issues on neighborhood roads could affect when students return to class, according to a message sent to families Friday evening.

Superintendent Daniel W. Smith, Ed.D., said staff are working through the weekend to complete cleanup efforts and ensure access to all schools. While facilities are ready, some roads still need attention, and the school division is coordinating with the Virginia Department of Transportation to monitor conditions.

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News

Firefighters rescue dog from icy embankment in Dumfries

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
[Submitted Photo].

Fire and rescue crews in Dumfries helped rescue a dog Wednesday afternoon after she slid several hundred feet down an ice-covered embankment near her home, according to a Prince William County press release.

Units from Fire Station 23 in River Oaks were dispatched at 12:39 p.m. on January 28, 2026, and found the dog, a 10-year-old black Labrador named Shelby, unable to climb back up the steep, frozen slope. Firefighters worked to safely retrieve her and carried her back to her owners.

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Fredericksburg

Who Speaks for Abused Children?

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
Rappahannock CASA [Submitted Photo].

“CASA’s No. 1 priority is to make sure that every child grows up in a safe, permanent home, free from the risk of further harm,” the nonprofit said.

Rappahannock CASA has served the Fredericksburg region since 1990. Volunteers are appointed by local judges to advocate for children involved in abuse and neglect cases, working alongside the courts to ensure each child’s safety and long-term well-being.

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Manassas

Police Find No Card Skimmers

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Police said the operation followed the recovery of several skimming devices locally late last year. Credit card skimmers are typically hidden on payment terminals to steal card information, leading to fraudulent charges and identity theft. Officers encouraged residents to inspect card readers, use chip or contactless payments, monitor statements, and report suspicious activity immediately.

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Features

Virginia ARTfactory to host free Valentine’s Day ‘Sculpting Your Inner World’ wellness workshop

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
Join us for this exciting and hands on workshop from our ARTful Wellness Series, brought to you by UVA Health! [Submitted Post].

“Using simple sculpting techniques, you will create a small, abstract or figurative sculpture from earthenware clay that represents a feeling, a goal, or a part of your inner world,” the organization stated. “This workshop will be a powerful and cathartic exercise in self-reflection.”

The free wellness workshop will be held on Valentine’s Day from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants will take home their finished clay pieces to air-dry and complete as they wish. Seating is limited, and advance registration is required. The class is offered in collaboration with UVA Health.

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