Opinion

Regarding the October 23 article about Monica Gary’s domestic violence charge, I feel it was extremely inappropriate and irresponsible, both as an individual reporter and as a publication, to open the article with reference to her previous employment as a stripper. It is very clear that intent of this statement, based on its delivery, was to condemn, degrade, and disqualify the quality of character of not only Monica Gary, but of strippers and sex workers as a whole — especially female strippers and sex workers. I will not stand for that in my community.

For this letter, I am using the terms “sex work” and “sex worker” broadly to encompass the various types of sex work including but not limited to stripping, pole dancing, prostitution, pornographic film acting and modeling, escort services, erotic massages, etc.


Newslinks

“Gov. Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency Thursday to keep food assistance going for Virginians as the federal government shutdown drags on,” The Center Square reported. “Youngkin said the order lets the state use emergency funds to continue Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits until Congress passes a funding deal.”


Fredericksburg

“Join us for the Veterans Day Procession on November 11 to remember and honor all those who served our country,” the City of Fredericksburg announced. “All are welcome to view the procession along Washington Avenue and join the Veterans Day Commemoration at the Fredericksburg Area War Memorial on George Street.”

 


Newslinks

“The Stafford County Board of Supervisors adopted an Emergency Ordinance, EO25-01, on October 21, 2025, to extend zero penalties and interest through December 20, 2025, on personal property tax,” Stafford County Government announced. “This effort was prompted by the financial uncertainty surrounding the delayed adoption of the federal budget and its potential impact on the residents of Stafford County.”

 


Manassas

“The Electric and Street Departments worked together to install a new traffic pole, damaged by an accident this morning, and get traffic lights up and running at Liberia Avenue and Quarry Road,” the City of Manassas posted. “The Water and Sewer Department finished repairing a water main break that affected Jennie Dean Elementary School.”

Earlier in the day, Manassas City Public Schools announced that water to Jennie Dean Elementary would be turned off at 11 a.m. due to the break. City crews have since completed repairs, restoring water service and resolving the issue that temporarily disrupted school operations.


Newslinks

“Heads up: Please don’t BURN anything outside today. Stafford is under an elevated fire advisory,” Stafford County Government announced. “The combination of recent dry conditions, low relative humidity and windy conditions will result in an elevated threat for the rapid spread of fires today.”

 


Manassas Park

“Got fines? Clear ’em with canned goods! 🥫📚 Donate non-perishable food at Manassas Park City Library November 1–15 and get $3 off fines per item!” Manassas Park City Library posted. “Donations support NVFS Hunger Resource Center.”


Newslinks

“A special shout-out to the Stafford High School Class of 1975 as they celebrate their 50th Reunion!” Stafford County Public Schools posted. “This class holds a unique place in our history: they were the last class to graduate from Stafford High School when it was located in the building we now know as Edward E. Drew Middle School.”


Newslinks

 

“A multi-agency emergency crisis response drill with Spotsylvania County Public Schools, Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, and FBI will take place in the evening on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Freedom Middle School,” Spotsylvania County Public Schools posted. “As part of the drill, there will be multiple Sheriff’s Office and FBI vehicles to include helicopters at the school during that time.”