QUANTICO — Habitat for Humanity Prince William, a nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park, recently received a $3,500 grant from the charitable arm of Dominion Energy.
The funds will support significant improvements to a home in Quantico.
“In addition to providing an exterior paint job, our dedicated volunteers are fixing a leaky roof, as well as installing new siding and a new HVAC unit,” said Traci DeGroat, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Prince William. “Thanks to the generous support of Dominion Energy and other area partners, we are able to revitalize the home of a local resident.”
From Habitat For Humanity Prince William:
Quantico resident, Robin Langham, is truly unique – she has lived in the small town of Quantico, Virginia, her entire life. Her parents set up shop there and began driving taxis for military personnel. Quantico is surrounded by the U.S. Marine Corps base and the town is small with around 500 residents. When asked what makes Quantico special, Robin’s eyes light up and she says “Everybody knows everybody – you’ve always got a friend here.”
Robin’s Story
Robin and her husband, Jimmy, were married for 21 years before he passed away in December. Their adult daughter, Ashley, and a family friend, Dee, live with Robin along with their four beagle-mix rescue dogs.
Robin has always worked in Quantico but lost her job as a clothing presser at a dry cleaner when the military went to “permanent press” uniforms that didn’t need ironing anymore. She currently works as lead housekeeper for a company that caters to the military.
Five years ago Robin suffered a stroke that left her unable to work and barely able to speak. She remembers desperately wanting to get back to work and her normal life with her family. Today Robin has completely recovered, works full-time again and serves on the Quantico Town Council.
How Habitat Will Help
Critical work is needed on Robin’s home in order for her to remain in the home and provide a safe place for her grandchildren to visit. We will remove and replace the existing roof; remove and replace the exterior siding as well as repair the interior damaged drywall.
Robin said of running for Town Council: “You promise people you’re going to be there for them and do your best.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to communities, the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation awarded more than $1.6 million in Critical Community Needs grants this year to help feed, shelter, and care for people in need. Donations were shared by more than 200 nonprofit organizations providing critical community services in 12 states.
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Patricia A. Healy, the longest-serving member in the history of the Stafford County School Board, celebrated a remarkable milestone on January 14, 2025—25 years of dedicated service to Stafford County Public Schools. First elected to represent the Rock Hill District in 2000, Healy has since become a pillar of leadership and advocacy for education in the community.
In a special recognition at the school board meeting, Healy was lauded for her steadfast commitment to students, families, and educators. Over the course of her tenure, Healy has served alongside 33 board members and held leadership roles, including seven years as chair and one year as vice chair. Her guidance has been instrumental in navigating the board through significant growth, challenges, and transformations within the school system.
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.
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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.
