News

Shop Local, Gift Local: Clay Creations and Holiday Inspiration at Corgi Clay

By Kelly Sienkowski

A family of handmade snowmen, a tree luminary, and hand-sculpted ornaments: Corgi Clay Art Center’s classes this month are focusing on the holidays. Corgi Clay has classes available for a wide range of ages and abilities, from teens learning to spin clay for the first time to advanced sculptors learning detailed techniques. Owner Deb Balestreri said the center is “Stafford County’s first vibrant, creative community that offers ceramics and other art classes, firing services, artist residencies, teaching and exhibition opportunities, and memberships for potters.”

Balestreri, a University of Mary Washington alum, opened Corgi Clay in 2020 after serving as the Director of Visual Arts Education at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton. The center is hosting a holiday marketplace through January, featuring unique artwork, apparel, pottery, and more.

Go to Shop Local, Gift Local: Clay Creations and Holiday Inspiration at Corgi Clay Read more

Prince William Opens Applications for 2025 Internship Program

By Caitlyn Meisner
[fauxels viz Pexels]

The internship is an eight-week-long program for students enrolled in higher education institutions and are interested in local government. According to a county press release, the program provides students the opportunity to go through training, mentoring, networking with executive leadership, field excursions, short-term projects and hands-on experience. The program will run from May 27 through July 18.

“Public service is one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting impact on the lives of others, and our internship program is an incredible opportunity for students to step into that role,” County Executive Chris Shorter said. “This program is about more than just gaining experience; it’s about inspiring the next generation of public servants who will shape our communities and lead us into the future.”

Go to Prince William Opens Applications for 2025 Internship Program Read more

Dr. Tim Duffy Announces Resignation from Fredericksburg City Council

By Uriah Kiser
Duffy takes the oath of office in 2018. [Photo: Fredericksburg City Goverment]

In a statement, Dr. Duffy shared that recent developments within his family and his ongoing battle with prostate cancer, initially treated in 2019, prompted him to reprioritize his commitments. “My family needs me, and I need them,” Dr. Duffy stated, visibly moved as he addressed his colleagues and the public.

Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Duffy expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and collaborate with fellow council members and city staff. “This body means so much to me and this city. It has been an amazing experience,” he said. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about his decision, calling himself “the luckiest person you will ever meet.”

Go to Dr. Tim Duffy Announces Resignation from Fredericksburg City Council Read more

UNITS Moving Hauls Toy Donation from Manassas to Stafford

By Uriah Kiser
Submitted photo

UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Northern Virginia has helped spread holiday cheer with its largest-ever involvement in the Toys for Tots program. Yesterday, Thursday, December 11, 2024, the Manassas-based company delivered hope and joy to needy children with its “Sleighs of Storage Caravan.”

A convoy of more than a dozen portable storage containers, packed with toys collected across Northern Virginia, arrived at the Toys for Tots warehouse at 736 Warrenton Road in Stafford County, at a former Big Lots store. Adding a touch of modern logistics to the festive event, robots unloaded the containers, stacking them with precision. Local Marines then took charge, sorting the toys and preparing them for distribution to families throughout the region.

Go to UNITS Moving Hauls Toy Donation from Manassas to Stafford Read more

Prince William County Launches Campaign to Reduce Panhandling

By Caitlyn Meisner
[Courtesy of Prince William County]

According to a press release, the county hopes to encourage residents to “rethink” how they give. Rather than donating directly to panhandlers, the county is directing residents to donate to local organizations and nonprofits that address housing, food insecurity, mental and health and job training.

This initiative was approved on Nov. 26 by the Board of County Supervisors. The campaign will run through December and will resume during the spring and summer, the press release stated.

Go to Prince William County Launches Campaign to Reduce Panhandling Read more

Crime News: Attempted Sexual Assault Reported at Nokesville Park; Police Seek Suspect

By Uriah Kiser

Prince William County police are investigating an attempted sexual assault that occurred on Tuesday, December 10, at Nokesville Community Park, 12560 Aden Road, near Manassas. A woman was walking along a trail near Hickerson Lane around 9 a.m. when she was approached by a masked man who attempted to assault her. The victim fought back, and the suspect fled after a struggle. Another park visitor assisted the victim in contacting the police.

She was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Go to Crime News: Attempted Sexual Assault Reported at Nokesville Park; Police Seek Suspect Read more

Stafford County School Board Discusses High School Redistricting Scenarios

By Uriah Kiser

The Stafford County School Board is evaluating five scenarios for redistricting its high schools, aiming to address overcrowding, transportation inefficiencies, and community concerns. The school board held a public hearing on high school redistricting at its Tuesday, December 10 meeting. The discussions, which have drawn public input, focus on balancing capacity projections with operational feasibility and maintaining community stability.

Schools Facing Significant Changes

Go to Stafford County School Board Discusses High School Redistricting Scenarios Read more
View More Stories