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MANASSAS, Va. -- The regional Forty Under 40 Awards held its first nominating “Cocktails and Cupcakes” after hours event at Okras in Manassas. A dozen nominees came to have their photos taken and to mingle among other young professionals who all work in the fields of education, finance, law, media, and government. But more than just a social hour, the event was also used to educate attendees about two community causes – the need to help local military veterans, and the finding solutions to the lack of information technology workers in Northern Virginia. To help with the latter, the U.S. Labor Department has spent at least $12 million, and has tasked Northern Virginia Community College, in part, to help produce more skilled IT workers to fill critical job openings in our area. “The labor market index says we need IT workers. There are over 600,000 IT jobs in Northern Virginia,” said Judith James, with the college’s Credentials to Careers Gateway Learning Community. “Between George Mason University and the big NOVA, which is the second largest community college system in the country with over 70,000 students, between the two of those institutions we’re only producing 1,200 people a year in IT.” James distributed literature in hopes of recruiting more students to the college program. All of the proceeds collected from ticket sales and donations taken at last night’s event went to Final Salute, Inc., an organization founded to help reduce the problem of homelessness among the U.S. vets. Director Denyse Gordon talked about the need to draw attention to the work of her non-profit organization through beauty pagent started by Final Salute, Miss Veteran America. “When you walk in with a crowd and sash you get noticed, and someone walks up to you and says ‘wow, that’s really pretty,’ and then the conversation starts about Final Salute and the work we do” said Gordon. An Air Force Airman, she was the first to be crowned Miss Veteran America in 2012 and now serves as the event’s director. Potomac Local News is the media partner for the Forty Under 40 Awards. Another “Cocktails and Cupcakes” nominating after hours event is planned for Wednesday, April 23 at Bahama Breeze at Potomac Mills Mall in Woodbridge from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The House Inc. will benefit from the event.Recent Stories
Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 367-7872 | ? [email protected]
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
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Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega is pushing to cancel the long-debated Route 28 Bypass project, a multi-year effort designed to alleviate congestion on Route 28 by extending Godwin Drive to connect Manassas with Dulles Airport. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is set to vote on her resolution during its meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The project, initially endorsed in September 2020, was meant to relieve congestion on Route 28 by constructing a four-lane divided bypass extending Godwin Drive across Sudley Road. The road would have connected with Route 28 at a signalized intersection north of Bull Run Stream in Fairfax County.
If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.
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.
