Opinion
On June 9th, I urge my fellow voters to support Atif Qarni in the Democratic Primary. He is a person we can trust to fight for public education and will be a true advocate in Richmond for the reforms our students deserve.
As a teacher, I know that our classes are too large and they don’t get the resources they need to thrive. Northern Virginia is a proudly diverse region and we’re leaving too many kids behind by forcing this one-size fits all curriculum. The current pacing guides that teachers need to follow do not allow for students to gain a complete understanding of any of the subjects, and those who have questions fall behind early and cannot catch up. I know Atif personally and as a teacher, he knows the issues better than anyone. He knows the kind of improvements that need to be made to ensure our students, and students across Virginia, need to be competitive. Atif can be the passionate supporter that public education needs in the Senate.
The fact is that we need to improve public education for our students. Between benchmarks and SOLs, our students are tested constantly. The teachers have to follow the pacing guides set for us to make sure that the students have been exposed to the information, but they often don’t have time to learn and fully comprehend it. Many of these tests don’t emphasize skills many of the students will need for the future. Atif knows that we need to re-invest in our children, not in unnecessary, formulaic standards.
The June 9th primary will send a signal to Richmond about our education priorities. We must go to the polls and elect a true advocate for public education. Atif will be the State Senator that promotes real education reform for Northern Virginia and fights for the policies that will make Virginia stronger. I urge my fellow citizens to join me in supporting Atif, the teacher who will fight for a quality public education in Virginia. Â
Recent Stories
Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.
In Stafford County, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins celebrated the grand reopening of their Next Generation restaurant on Warrenton Road with a unique community event on Saturday, February 8. Customers enjoyed free medium hot or iced coffee while participating in fun activities, including a prize wheel, face painting, and a visit from Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy. As part of the event, local franchisee Pravina Bhalani hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presented a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.
Stafford County Fire and Rescue expressed their appreciation, stating, “Thank you to Dunkin’ (Warrenton Road) for the invite to their reopening and thank you for the generous $500 contribution to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.”
The Dale City Farmers Market is open Sundays year-round, rain or shine! From December to March, shop from 10 AM – 1 PM at 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City.
Discover a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and more! Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or unique artisanal products, the Dale City Farmers Market has something for everyone.
If you’re a Lab lover, Raven is waiting for you! This one-year-old Labrador mix is full of energy and enthusiasm, just as you’d expect from her breed. She has experience living with kids, cats, and dogs, making her a great fit for an active and pet-friendly household.
Raven was returned to the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter because she does best in a home with a fenced yard. Without one, she has a tendency to wander, so her ideal home includes a secure space or committed leash walks.
Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page has been appointed to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees to represent Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed in 2024. The Board oversees library policies across Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties. Brown-Page, a retired federal senior manager and mediation expert, brings extensive experience in human and community relations. Her appointment follows the censure of Stafford Supervisor Monica Gary, accused of political maneuvering in Becelia’s removal.
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.
