Residents rang in the holiday season at a tree lighting ceremony at the Stafford County Courthouse.
After a 10-second countdown, at 6:20 p.m., county leaders lit a 20-foot-tall pine street planted in front of the county’s iconic courthouse 15 years ago. White lights and red bulbs adorn the tree.
About 1,000 people attended the event, according to a county estimate. Many gathered below the courthouse steps, in a courtyard between the government center and courthouse.
Food trucks featuring sugared treats and coffee greeted attendees who parked their vehicles in a large parking lot serving the county government complex.
Rockhill District Supervisor Crystal Vanuch served as master of ceremonies. Falmouth District Supervisor Meg Bohmke, County Treasurer Laura Rudy, and incoming Hartwood District Supervisor Darrell English joined her.
Pastor Paul Toelke of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church provided an opening prayer. Drew Middle School Choir and the Chamber Choir at Colonial Forge High School provided musical performances.
A fire truck brought Santa Claus to the celebration, which began at 5 p.m. and wrapped about 7 p.m. The Christmas Tree lighting event was the most significant holiday event of its kind in the county in recent years.
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DUMFRIES, Va. –Dumfries Mayor Derrick Wood recently spoke about the new development underway at the corner of Route 1 and Possum Point Road: the first-ever Wawa gas station in the town. This new business, set to open in late summer or early fall of 2025, promises to bring economic benefits to the area, marking a pivotal moment in the town’s growth and revitalization efforts.
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After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”

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Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has