Author: Mauriah Church-Barbour

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Prince William

Valentine’s Day Bash returns to Manassas Museum with romantic civil ceremonies

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
[Submitted Photo].

Held inside Mae Merchant Hall, the venue will be transformed into a charming space with whimsical decorations and heart-shaped accents. Throughout the day, couples will participate in personalized ceremonies, from first-time vows to renewals celebrating decades of marriage.

The event, now a community tradition, draws support from local partners and small businesses to create a memorable experience for couples and their guests. Smith described the bash as “a special, elegant, and affordable way to celebrate their union together with family and friends in a welcoming and supportive environment.”

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Health

New Blood Program Launched by Fire Rescue

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
Prince William County's Fire & Rescue System Engine 23. [Courtesy of PWCFRS]

Fire & Rescue officials said the program was developed in partnership with the Northern Virginia Emergency Response System and Inova Blood Donor Services. The initiative allows specially trained EMS supervisors to provide whole blood in the field, improving care for patients with severe bleeding before they reach a hospital.

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Fredericksburg

Apartment Fire Displaces Pets in Fredericksburg

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
[Submitted Photo].

“Two cats were rescued and treated on the scene,” the department stated. “Unfortunately, one cat and one dog perished.”

Firefighters responded to the apartment complex Monday afternoon with assistance from Spotsylvania crews. Officials said the incident resulted in animal losses but no reported injuries to residents.

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Manassas

Buckhall VFD Mourns Former Chief

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
Chief Tom Pitkin [Submitted Photo].

“Tom was dedicated to serving the community and helping wherever he could,” the department added. “Tom was also a business leader in Prince William County, growing Pitkins Hardware to what it has become today.”

Pitkin was a longtime member of the Buckhall Volunteer Fire Department and served as chief for more than a decade. Department members asked the community to keep the Pitkin family in their thoughts and prayers during this time.

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Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg Area Drivers Urged to Delay Travel This Morning

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

“Staying off the roads will also provide space for crews removing snow today on primary roads and high-volume secondary roads,” the agency added. (Virginia Department of Transportation)

VDOT crews are actively working around the clock to plow and treat roads after a winter storm left many low-volume secondary roads snow-covered and icy. Interstates and major routes are priority for snow and ice removal before crews shift focus to smaller secondary and residential roads. Drivers should check 511Virginia for current road conditions before traveling. (Virginia Department of Transportation)

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Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg schools name Dr. David Ferguson as new operations director

By Mauriah Church-Barbour
Dr. David Ferguson [Submitted Photo].

Dr. David Ferguson has been appointed Director of Operations for Fredericksburg City Public Schools, effective January 28, 2026. The School Board approved the move, bringing in a seasoned educator with more than 22 years of experience in school leadership and operations.

Ferguson most recently served as principal of Fauquier High School and previously led Rappahannock High School for nearly a decade. His background includes work in Spotsylvania and Richmond counties, with roles focused on facilities, safety, special education, and capital planning. He holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Virginia Tech.

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