Manassas

Correction: An earlier version of this article did not include Laura Goldzung’s educational distinction, an Ed.D. We have updated the article and photo caption to reflect her degree.

Tracy Hammond, a special education teacher in Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS), was recently given the Mary V. Bicouvaris Teacher of the Year award from the district.


Manassas Park

Updated –Members of the community gathered to honor the Manassas Park police department for their diligent efforts in the investigation of Mamta Kafle Bhatt, a mother who has not been seen since July 2024. The recognition ceremony highlighted the role of law enforcement in uncovering key evidence in the high-profile case.

During the ceremony, 11 officers from the Manassas Park Police Department were presented with traditional Topi headdresses provided by Kafle Bhatt’s Nepalese family. Sunita Basnet Thapa, a coworker and mentor to Kafle Bhatt during her nursing career, explained the cultural significance of the Topi. “The headdress is traditionally presented to Nepalese men to identify them as honorable and hardworking,” she said.


Fredericksburg

Dr. Janet Gullickson, the first female president of Germanna Community College, will retire in July 2025 after eight years of leadership.

During her tenure, Gullickson oversaw significant enrollment growth, national recognition by the Aspen Institute, and the distinction of being the first college to host Amazon Web Services’ mobile classroom. She also spearheaded work-based learning initiatives, including paid internships, to enhance student career readiness.


Don’t miss the fun – bring your friends and enjoy great performances while sipping on your favorite brews!

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News

Gov. Glenn Youngkin highlighted the industry’s importance during his State of the Commonwealth address Monday, noting that “data centers alone support 74,000 jobs, bring in $9.1 billion in Virginia GDP, and generate billions in local revenue.” He called for Virginia to remain “the data center capital of the world” while ensuring state support for the industry.

However, lawmakers from both parties have emphasized the need for oversight to ensure the industry’s growth is managed responsibly.


News

The Center Square: Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin delivered the final State of the Commonwealth address of his term Monday after a delayed start to the 2025 General Assembly session, urging the state legislature to “keep Virginia winning” with bills it passes this year.

The governor began his speech by recounting how his administration and the General Assembly have delivered on priorities and policies that have made Virginia stronger.


Pets

Yang, a charming adult female lop-eared rabbit, is seeking a new home through the Prince William County Animal Shelter. With her soft white fur and sweet demeanor, Yang is ready to hop into the hearts of her new family.

At 1-3 years old and weighing around 15 pounds, Yang was surrendered by her previous owner and now needs a loving family to provide her with the care and companionship she deserves. Her short coat is easy to maintain, making her an ideal companion for anyone looking to add a furry friend to their life.


Manassas

A Prince William County resident, Bethany Selvage, has her car back nearly two months after an unlicensed tow operator stole it, according to police. On January 2, 2025, Manassas City Police located Selvage’s 2018 Nissan Sentra.

Police have since charged Michael Tillman, owner of Tillman’s Auto Salon in Manassas, with a third felony offense related to illegal towing and demanding exorbitant fees for vehicle release. This charge represents the third vehicle Tillman is accused of stealing, and authorities say more charges are likely as they uncover years of him towing without a license.

In the most recent case, police say Tillman took a 2018 Toyota Yaris from the Raising Cane’s parking lot on Liberia Avenue just outside Manassas under false pretenses. The Yaris owners had contacted their insurance company, which arranged for a tow truck. Police said Tillman arrived before the legitimate tow company, misrepresented himself as the insurance company’s provider, and obtained the vehicle.

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Prince William

Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chair At-large Deshundra Jefferson delivered her annual State of the County address during the board’s organizational meeting on January 14, 2025. Jefferson reflected on the board’s achievements in 2024 and outlined priorities for the coming year, emphasizing collaboration, financial stewardship, and community investment.

Achievements in 2024

Jefferson highlighted the board’s bipartisan collaboration, leading to several major accomplishments:

Tax Reforms: A reduction in the real estate tax rate, offset by an increase in the business computer and peripheral (data center) tax rate to $3.70, the highest allowable rate. The board also extended the car tax deadline by 60 days to provide temporary relief to taxpayers.

Education Investments: A historic $105.1 million increase in contributions to Prince William County Schools, marking the largest year-over-year increase in the county’s history.

Public Safety Enhancements: Funding for additional police officers and medics, and the ratification of collective bargaining agreements with public safety personnel to improve recruitment and retention.

Preserving Fiscal Health: Maintaining the county’s AAA bond rating, a distinction held by only 53 counties nationwide and 12 in Virginia.

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