“I felt happy, excited, grateful, valued and above all blessed,” Riveron-Wong said of winning the award. “Being recognized with this award has a very big and important meaning because it shows that I’m on the right path, that I’m doing things well and that my work is valued and appreciated by others.”

The RISE, or the Recognizing Inspiring School Employees, Award is given to support staff who “go above and beyond in their service to students, staff and the broader school community,” an MCPS release stated. Nominees from each MCPS school, central office and the Transportation Department are evaluated in five areas: work performance, school and community involvement, leadership and commitment, support from colleagues and community members and enhancement of the public image of classified employees.


This update on both the public campaign and outreach into the community follows more than a year of discussion at the Board level. In February 2024, a team was developed to find strategies to reduce panhandling in the county; the team determined public safety and the need for social services were a top priority.

Panhandling, according to county staff, is “someone that is out on the corner and on the median, and they are asking for money.” County staff does not consider those selling items on the side of the road as panhandlers.


At Taste of Old Country, guests are treated to more than just a meal—they’re invited into an experience that combines European bistro charm with a curated gourmet market. Located at 10427 Balls Ford Road, near Manassas, this hidden gem offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfect for everything from casual lunches to lively evening wine tastings.

A Dining Room Draped in Greenery


OCCOQUAN, Va. – A charming new boutique is now open in Occoquan’s historic downtown.

To Bee, located at 308 Poplar Alley, welcomed shoppers during its grand opening weekend on May 10–11, 2025. Owned by Thalia Wyatt, the shop features handmade candles, custom earrings, and curated gifts—many crafted by Wyatt herself. Guests can also join “Master Salons,” creative workshops led by Wyatt’s mother, Alma, to make their own one-of-a-kind treasures.


MANASSAS, Va. – Time is running out to catch the Prince William Art Society Members’ Exhibit at the ARTfactory gallery in Historic Downtown Manassas. The final day to view the exhibit is this Friday, May 30, and art lovers are encouraged to stop by while they still can.

According to a post from the ARTfactory, the group exhibit features work by 24 artists from across Prince William County, showcasing a wide range of styles and mediums—from striking abstracts to serene landscapes. All artwork on display is available for purchase.


The camps offer exciting opportunities in visual, performing, and literary arts for children and teens ages 5 to 17. With new themes and projects each week, there’s something fresh for every young artist to explore. Families are encouraged to browse the full catalog and find the perfect camp for their child.

For details and to register, visit ARTfactory’s website.


🚗 Prince William County’s Department of Transportation showed that its temporary photo-monitoring speed limit cameras have been effective in a recent Board of County Supervisors meeting, and is now requesting that they become permanent.

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Woman charged in Woodbridge armed robbery

Police arrested an 18-year-old woman in connection to an armed robbery that occurred last month in a Woodbridge neighborhood.


MANASSAS, Va. – Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory is bringing high-energy comedy to the stage this summer with Lend Me a Soprano, a fast-paced farce by acclaimed playwright Ken Ludwig. The show runs from June 13 to 22 at the Wind River Theatre in downtown Manassas.

This gender-swapped take on Tony Ludwig’s Lend Me a Tenor, directed by Vince Worthington, is set in 1934 at the fictional Cleveland Grand Opera Company. Audiences can expect a night full of backstage mayhem as the characters scramble to save a performance of Carmen when their star soprano arrives late, a jealous husband crashes the scene, and a young assistant must think on her feet to prevent a disaster.


According to the school division, the fair aimed to encourage student participation in middle and high school sports. Thirty tables highlighted Virginia High School League (VHSL) programs and activities. Coaches and student-athletes were on hand to answer questions and inspire attendees to get involved.

“This event is all about showing students that there’s a place for everyone in PWCS,” said Ashley Ausborn, PWCS coordinator of sports medicine. “Whether you’re into track, robotics, or wanting to try something new, we want kids to feel excited and confident about getting involved.”


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