Today, there were mixed messages on whether or not newly contracted state health inspectors have the authority to order a business closed.

During a meeting of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors, Coles Supervisor Yesli Vega asked about the new contractors. They have been hired to investigate people’s complaints about not wearing masks inside businesses in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.
Instead of fining small business owners, Vega suggested the contractor’s skills could be better used in the effort to vaccinate the more than 465,000 residents who live in the county.
Prince William Health District chief Dr. Alison Ansher replied to Vega, saying she didn’t believe the contractors had the authority to shudder a business.
“Generally, we don’t try to close places down,” explained Ansher. “We try to use education to explain the importance of wearing masks.”
Three new contractors were hired in early February to conduct surprise visits to ensure people are wearing masks. If they’re not, the contractors can revoke a business’s occupancy permit, putting it out of business, reports the Prince William Times.
Brentsville District Supervisor Jeanine Lawson pointed out that fact, as reported by the newspaper. Ansher had no further comment on the issue.
Since May, there have been more than 1,800 mask complaints filed with the Prince William Health District office, an arm of the Virginia Department of Health. Most have been unfounded.
While Gov. Ralph Northam eased some coronavirus restrictions this week, including allowing restaurants to stay open past 10 p.m., his order requiring Virginia residents to wear a mask in public remains in effect.
Virginia is one of 35 states that still have a mask mandate in place. Governors in Montana, Iowa, North Dakota, Mississippi, and Texas have lifted their mask mandates.
It’s up to the state health department to enforce Governor Northam’s mask mandate, not the police
Recent Stories

The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!

Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Christmas in July
Volunteer Prince William will be holding a fun-filled Christmas in July event at Heritage Brewing Co on July 26th from 12pm until 6pm with all proceeds going to support the 2025 Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket Program. Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something