Local economic leaders in Fredericksburg and Prince William County are launching new initiatives to strengthen small businesses and entrepreneurs, reflecting a broader shift toward locally driven networking, education, and collaboration.
In Fredericksburg, the city’s Economic Development Authority announced today the launch of two new quarterly programs — FXBG Local Loop and The Business Pour — designed to support business growth and deepen connections within the local business community.
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Birmingham Green, a nearly century-old senior living community in Prince William County, is inviting the public to brighten residents’ holidays with a car parade designed for seniors who can’t easily leave campus.
“The ARTfactory is proud to present the 22nd Annual Off the Wall High School Art Exhibit & Competition, an inspiring showcase of emerging creative talent from across the region,” ARTfactory announced. “This free event invites the community to enjoy the artwork, meet the student artists, and celebrate the top winners in each category.”
“The 2025–26 exhibit features student artwork across five categories: Art & Technology, Painting/Drawing, Poetry, Wearable Art, and Photography,” according to ARTfactory stated. “Wearable Art designs will be unveiled and judged live during the ceremony.”
“Electra doesn’t have ‘the complication others face of going through a still untested certification pathway,’” Aerospace America reported. “This [Part 23] is a certification pathway that’s well understood, and we have a team that’s gone through that pathway dozens and dozens of times.” “That rewrite of Part 23 is going to significantly facilitate our pathway through certification, just as the FAA intended,” the outlet added.
Electra has submitted its application to certify the nine-seat EL9 for commercial and military use and has expanded its footprint at Manassas Regional Airport, where it is building its first aircraft and displaying a full-size mockup. Flight tests are planned to begin in 2027, followed by three prototypes for FAA pilot evaluations. The EL9 is designed for ultra-short takeoffs and landings enabled by blown-lift aerodynamics, and the company is evaluating a future manufacturing site to support mass production.
The Manassas City Council moved one step closer to bringing commercial passenger service to Manassas Regional Airport, securing several foundational approvals that will enable the airport to expand operations and welcome regional carriers in the coming years.
The actions taken during the December 8 council meeting mark a significant milestone in a multi-year effort to transform the city-owned airport from a general aviation hub into a limited-commercial-service facility.
“A big round of applause and congratulations to all of the winners announced of this year’s 79th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade,” Greater Manassas Christmas Parade announced. “Everyone did an amazing job bringing ‘Elfin’ Around Old Town’ to life with their floats, routines and decorations!”
“Our awards ceremony will be held on Monday, January 12th at 6:00pm at City Hall! If you are a winner mentioned below, please join us to accept your trophy and certificate.”
Christmas festivities were interrupted Friday night when a vehicle crashed through a police barricade during the annual Santa Lights Manassas celebration, injuring an officer and sending families scrambling during one of the city’s most heavily attended holiday events.
The crash occurred around 7:43 p.m. in Old Town at the intersection of West and Center streets, where officers were directing traffic as thousands gathered for the tree lighting, wagon rides, and Santa’s arrival by Virginia Railway Express train.
