Features

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Damien and Quadrell Sylvester have been named Prince William County’s 2025 Foster Parents of the Year, honored by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) for their outstanding commitment to children in care.

The Sylvesters, who currently care for a sibling group of three, have repeatedly stepped up, offering emergency, respite, and long-term placements, often on short notice. County officials say the family consistently provides nurturing and stability, even under challenging situations.


Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Runners and their fans will be out in force as the Marine Corps Historic Half returns to Fredericksburg the weekend of May 17-18, 2025.

This year, a new event—the Semper Fred 5K—will take place on Saturday, May 17, ahead of the main half marathon. This family-friendly race will lead to road closures in the Central Park area from midnight to 9 a.m. on Saturday. Expect impacts on Gordon Shelton Boulevard and portions of Carl D. Silver Parkway. You can view the 5K course map here: Semper Fred 5K Course Map.


Manassas

MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas City Animal Shelter is hopping with excitement as three two-month-old bunnies are now ready to find their forever homes.

According to shelter staff, these energetic, curious female rabbits are looking for families ready to commit to proper rabbit care. “Bunnies make wonderful companions, but they have specific care needs that are different from other pets like cats or dogs,” the shelter shared. “We always recommend doing a little homework first to ensure their new families are prepared to give them the best life possible.”


Prince William

MANASSAS, Va. – Drivers traveling on northbound Prince William Parkway near Balls Ford Road in Manassas should expect overnight lane closures later this week.

According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, crews plan to close the parkway’s right lane on Friday night, May 16, and Saturday night, May 17, to make repairs to the Balls Ford Road overpass.


Manassas

Looking for a romantic Italian escape without leaving Prince William County? Step into SEMIFREDDO Italian Cuisine—a charming culinary gem in Manassas offering a warm, intimate setting and a menu bursting with traditional and Mediterranean flavors. With over 20 years of chef-driven expertise, this locally owned favorite is ideal for couples seeking a memorable night out over wine, pasta, and candlelight.

Three-Course Menu Suggestion


Features

Presented by Triune Entertainment, Into the Sun follows Freddy and Mary Sigfried as they navigate the emotional and moral upheavals of World War I. Freddy, eager to serve, rises through the military ranks but is haunted by the consequences of leadership. Meanwhile, Mary breaks with tradition by taking a job in a munitions factory, eventually grappling with the ethics of her work.

Director Esther Wells called the show “an honor” to direct, highlighting its local roots and cast of talented regional performers. Leading roles include Ryan Schaffer as Freddy and Audrey Mollo as Mary, joined by Cam Ezell, Joseph Allen, and others in a rich ensemble cast.


Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Flooding concerns remain high along the Rappahannock River after a day of heavy rain and rescue operations.

At 2:54 p.m. today, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office reported multiple people were rescued after their car became stranded in flood waters on River Road near Fredericksburg. Meanwhile, the Fredericksburg City Fire Department announced the closure of City Dock, warning that the river is expected to crest at 13 feet around 2 a.m. Wednesday, May 15. A Flood Warning is in effect for the dock area from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m.


Manassas

MANASSAS, Va. – City leaders say they were surprised to learn that the first tenant of the newly opened Brickyard Data Center on Godwin Drive won’t contribute to the city’s business personal property tax base as expected.

The data center, operated by Digital Realty Trust, opened earlier this year. Officials had projected millions in tax revenue from computer equipment expected to fill the site. But when tax paperwork arrived on April 14, 2025, city officials learned the first tenant is a bank—an industry that is exempt from paying business personal property taxes under Virginia law.


Prince William

MANASSAS, Va. – Hundreds gathered last night at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas to honor nearly 300 Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) employees who are retiring this year.

According to PWCS, 278 educators, administrators, and support staff were recognized during the ceremony for their years of dedication to students across the county. The honorees included those who officially submitted retirement notices between April 2024 and April 2025.