On Nov.
1, 2014, Project Mend-A-House (PMAH) held the first ever Fall Fix-It Fest. The day was organized and executed by PMAH Project Manager, Rob Pennington, and his 5 volunteer team leaders (Bill Hoehn, Edrys Laprea, Dean Quick, Patrick Wesley and Eric Zuniga).
Together, they marshalled 40 volunteers and PMAH staff members at 5 project sites to tackle major projects for clients from around the county. Volunteers braved a cold, wet Saturday to make a difference in the lives of low income seniors by making home repairs to make their homes more livable.
Among the volunteers were a number of first time PMAH participants, including seven adolescents. Over the course of several hours, the PMAH teams were able to accomplish repairs including replacing doors and siding, fixing gutters, yard cleanup, replacing flooring, installing safety grab bars and various plumbing repairs.
“It was wonderful to see so many members of our community pulling together to make a difference in their neighbor’s lives at our first Fall Fix-it Fest.” said PMAH Executive Director, Jennifer Schock-Bolles, “Thank you to everyone for their dedication and hard work, without volunteers, Project Mend-A-House would not exist.”
This event was conceived as a way to tackle bigger projects and involve new volunteers under the guidance of more experienced team members. Another community volunteer day, the Spring Spruce-up is being planned for early next year. PMAH plans to make these annual events to mobilize the community for a day of service and help raise the quality of life for some of the needier members of Prince William County.
Project Mend-A-House needs volunteers. To join PMAH’s team, please contact the organization at 703-792-7663 or visit the website at www.pmahweb.org.
Recent Stories
This week, we’re thrilled to host Dr. Babur Lateef, Chairman of the Prince William County School Board, and Jennifer Wall, Gainesville District Representative, for an engaging discussion on the state of education in Prince William County on the next Potomac Local News Podcast.
Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS). Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
Rania credited her success to the supportive academic community of Prince William County Public Schools, her teachers Stephanie Brown and Dr. Alexis Patanarut, and her unique opportunities at GS@IP. As a finalist, she has already won $27,000 and will compete for additional awards totaling over $1.8 million during a week-long event in Washington, D.C., in March 2025. Rania’s journey emphasizes the power of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful scientific discoveries.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
Gomez Alvarez displayed red, glassy eyes and had a strong odor of alcohol. The investigation revealed that he had been convicted of DUI in New York just the previous day, making this his second offense in five years. He was charged with DUI second offense, refusal, and destruction of property and was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
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.
