Mason Neck, Va. –– Some expert spellers took a break Monday to tour George Mason’s historic home.
Gunston Hall on the Mason Neck Peninsula served as a respite for spellers participating in the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee in the Washington area.
“We had more than 1,000 participants here yesterday who toured George Mason’s home, tasted 18th-century recipes in the (sweltering) hearth kitchen, played organized games, sang karaoke, line-danced, moon-bounced, and did a good bit of perspiring in the 90 + degree heat,” said Gunston Hall spokeswoman Susan Blankenship.
During one of the demonstrations on Monday, a cook at the mansion showed two children and their father how to cook a fish by placing it on board and placing it near a fire.
The spelling bee is aired nationally on the networks of ESPN, and they, along with other national cable news outlets were on hand with the spellers as they toured the historic estate.
The spellers will spend the next four days in the area focused on winning the bee, but while at Gunston Hall they were invited to tour the mansion, play games, hike trails and participate in other activities on the 550-acre estate.
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Big decisions and new initiatives are always unfolding around us—decisions that can leave us questioning the future and wondering how they will impact our community. But at Potomac Local News, we’re dedicated to showing you the way forward, helping you understand these changes and what they mean for the road ahead.
This week, we brought you exclusive stories that showcase how our community is evolving, from the cancellation of a major road project to the launch of new fundraising initiatives. Here’s how we’re showing you the way forward:
Osbourn Park High School has received the Virginia School Breakfast Award from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for its success in expanding breakfast access, maintaining nutritional integrity, and serving more scratch-cooked meals. The school is one of three recipients this year.
Cafeteria manager Nidia Bruno expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the team’s dedication to feeding students. Andrea Early, director of Food and Nutrition, noted that breakfast participation at Osbourn Park has increased by 30% and praised the cafeteria team for efficiently managing the expanded program. The school benefits from the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program, which provides free breakfast and lunch to all students.
(FXBG Advance) – Local delegates Joshua Cole, a Democrat, and Hillary Pugh Kent, a Republican, have been appointed to an emergency committee that will monitor the impact to Virginia of the…
Nothing Bundt Cakes has officially opened its doors just outside Manassas, bringing its signature, handcrafted bundt cakes to the community. The Prince William Chamber of Commerce celebrated the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new bakery at 9825 Liberia Avenue, Suite 101.
The popular national bakery chain, known for its rich, moist cakes and signature cream cheese frosting, offers a variety of flavors and sizes, from bite-sized Bundtinis to 10-inch Bundt cakes perfect for special occasions. The store aims to be a go-to destination for birthdays, anniversaries, and everyday celebrations.
“We are ecstatic to have them join the thriving business community in Prince William County,” said a representative from the Chamber. “Their presence adds to the diverse selection of locally owned and franchised businesses that make this area a great place to shop and dine.”
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
