Just Listed: 402 Cabin Ct, Stafford, VA 22554
Open House: Saturday, April 5, 12 to 3 p.m.
Price: $435,000
MLS#: VAST2036384
Listing Agent: Lindsey Schmidt – Fathom Realty | Licensed in VA | Call now! 205-223-1732

This beautifully updated townhome in the Cabin Creekwood subdivision offers comfort, convenience, and style—all in one. Now available at a new price, this home is centrally located just minutes from Quantico, I-95, Route 1, and the VRE, providing easy access for commuters.

Inside, you’ll find a bright, inviting space with neutral paint throughout. The updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances, modern countertops, and a functional center island with storage. The open-concept main level includes a spacious living and dining area, perfect for entertaining, along with a refreshed powder room.

Step outside to a fully fenced backyard with a deck—ideal for relaxing or hosting guests.

Upstairs, the home offers two large bedrooms with ample closet space and a renovated full bathroom that includes a wide vanity and a stylish, floor-to-ceiling tiled tub surround.

The finished lower level includes a third bedroom (not to code) with a fireplace, luxury vinyl flooring, a full bathroom with a walk-in shower, a dedicated laundry area, and additional storage. Whether you need extra space for guests, a home office, or a workout area, this level delivers versatility.

Additional highlights:

One-car garage with storage
HVAC replaced in 2024
Lot size: 0.04 acres
Located within Stafford County Public Schools
The property is just a short drive to shopping, dining, entertainment, schools, parks, and medical facilities. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate proximity to the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, while those who enjoy historic charm can explore nearby Downtown Fredericksburg.

Sellers request rent-back through May 24.

Don’t miss your chance to tour this updated and move-in-ready home. Visit the open house on Saturday, April 5, from 12 to 3 p.m.

For more information or to schedule a private showing, contact:

Lindsey Schmidt
Licensed in VA
205-223-1732

If you’ve caught a whiff of cinnamon sugar in the air and followed your nose to a gleaming churro truck, chances are you’ve stumbled upon Noris Churros — a new local business serving up the sweet, golden treats of Mexico City right here in Northern Virginia.

The name “Noris” is a loving tribute to co-founder Nora Sanchez, who, alongside her partner Marcos Vazquez, turned a dream into a dessert-slinging reality. Their secret recipe? A mix of authenticity, patience, and just a pinch of daring.

“It’s not easy being an entrepreneur,” said Viridiana Neri, Nora’s daughter and the unofficial ambassador for the brand. “People think it’s glitz and glamour, but it’s a lot of hard work.”

The churro truck — custom-built in Mexico — was hauled across the border to Texas, where Marcos jumped into a rental truck and drove it all the way to Virginia. “My mom flew down to meet him,” Viridiana recalled with a laugh. “It was a whole adventure.”

Now six months into selling, Noris Churros is a regular sight at events, where fans line up for fresh, crispy churros made with love — and a notoriously “picky” dough. For smaller gatherings, the team offers large party boxes perfect for meetings, birthdays, or whenever you’re in need of a sugar fix.

Behind the scenes, the business got a major boost from Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) — a nonprofit based in Manassas that’s celebrating 100 years of strengthening families and communities across the region.

Through their entrepreneurial training programs, including business planning and financial education, NVFS empowers local residents like Nora and Marcos to turn their ideas into reality. “They learned everything — business plans, permits, how to grow a business,” said Viridiana. “It gave them confidence.”

Founded in 1924, NVFS provides a broad spectrum of services — from early childhood education to housing and workforce development — designed to help individuals and families become self-sufficient. Their Manassas location plays a vital role in supporting the entrepreneurial dreams of immigrants and underserved residents through accessible education and mentorship.

While Nora has dabbled in other jobs before, this venture feels different. “She’s a risk-taker,” Viridiana said proudly. “But this time, she’s put her heart into it. And Marcos? He’s been her biggest motivator.”

So what’s the secret to the perfect churro?

“Patience,” Viridiana said with a smile. “And a little love.”

Jose Rafael Lizama, a 48-year-old Manassas Park resident, was sentenced on April 3, 2025, to 10 years in prison, with five years suspended, for the 2023 death of Justin Burns. He will serve five years in the Virginia Department of Corrections, followed by five years of supervised probation. Lizama must also wear an ankle monitor for continuous drug and alcohol testing after release.

Four days before the start of his January 2025 trial, Lizama took a plea deal and admitted to striking and killing Justin Burns of Blackstone near Richmond while speeding and driving drunk on December 2, 2023. Justin was crossing the 8900 block of Center Street in downtown Manassas, near Old Town Sports Pub, just before 11 p.m. Police crime scene investigators determined that Lizama was traveling nearly double the speed limit in foggy weather when he struck Justin. 

Prince William Assistant Commonwealth Attorney, Ryan Reynolds, told the court that police wrote in their report that Lizama had attempted to blend into the crowd to avoid responsibility for the crash until witnesses identified him as the driver.

Lizama appeared remorseful before Prince William County Circuit Court Judge Angela Horan, apologizing to the judge, the victim’s family, and his own family. “I’m sorry from the bottom of my heart to Mr. Burns’ family. My words will never be enough for the pain and suffering that I have caused,” Lizama said through a Spanish interpreter.

Horan said she wanted to see an end to drunk driving and stated that the sentencing guidelines did not allow for a harsher sentence. “We are never going to eradicate this behavior (drunk driving) if we let people get away,” she said, adding, “too many lives are taken because of this behavior.”  Raising her voice, Horan expressed anger that he had been driving 47 miles per hour drunk down Manassas’ Center Street. “That decision was outside the realm of the sentencing guidelines.”

Lizama had prior offenses related to speeding and alcohol dating back to 2018 in Virginia. It is unclear when he entered the country or if he had other violations elsewhere.

Kim Burns, Justin’s mother, gave a victim impact statement emphasizing his philanthropic work in the community. He volunteered with several organizations, including the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Manassas. He also founded Succor Solutions, Inc., a nonprofit specializing in disaster recovery and economic development in Blackstone.

Burns told the court she was saddened not to receive a call from Justin on her 66th birthday, as he had done every year. “Our lives changed forever that day. There will never be a day I don’t wake up thinking of Justin, and he is the last thought I have before I go to sleep. My son had so much to give, and that’s not going to happen now. I’m never going to get to dance with my son at his wedding. I’m never going to get to hold my grandchild from him, and he’s not going to be there for his brother and sister when his dad and I get old.”

“Justin was a blessing to the community, what a loss his death was to the community,” Horan said in response.

Justin had been in town to attend an event for his nonprofit. Burns described Justin’s death as a “good day,” during which he participated at the Manassas Christmas parade with his brother and toured the recently renovated Manassas Museum. He was on his way to Old Town Sports Pub to meet friends when he was killed.

After sentencing, Burns told Potomac Local News that she was glad Horan did not hold back in chastising Lizama from the bench. “While nothing can fill the loss of our son, Justin, Judge Horan served a sentence that brings him some justice while setting a precedent that drinking and driving will not be tolerated.”

Burns said her family plans to honor Justin’s legacy by organizing an annual blood drive, something he was passionate about. Justin was designated as a “Hero for Babies” by the American Red Cross, a title awarded to blood donors who meet specific criteria to provide safe and essential blood for newborns and infants. His blood donations over the years saved more than 75 lives.

Lizama’s attorney, Fernando Villarroel of the Manassas-based Irving Law Group, did not respond to requests for comment. He had sought only probation and alcohol treatment for Lizama, but Horan denied the request.

Welcome back to a Potomac Local News series, “Meet Prince William.”

We’ve started this series so Prince William County residents can get to know the important people working behind the scenes to make the county run smoothly and efficiently. This is an opportunity to learn from experts on the county. Potomac Local has asked each leader the same questions in bold, and their respective answers will be found below.

Today, get to know Jennifer Patterson, the library director. Patterson has been with the county since September when she assumed her role. Most recently, she was the library services director in Thousand Oaks, Calif. Patterson has also served in various roles in Greensboro, N.C.; Gonzales, La.; and Winston, N.C.

How have your previous roles in libraries across the country helped prepare you for becoming Library Director?

Having served as a library director three times in systems of varying sizes — rural, urban and suburban — I have developed a deep appreciation for community engagement and a strategic mindset for balancing tradition with innovation. Each role I’ve held has helped shape my servant leadership approach. I’ve learned how to build meaningful relationships with staff, patrons and stakeholders while honoring the traditions that make each library unique. At the same time, I’ve gained experience implementing new services and technologies that help libraries evolve. This experience equips me to lead Prince William Public Libraries, where we serve a diverse population through 12 library locations and a Mobile Library. I have successfully navigated the challenges and opportunities that come with serving different populations, ensuring that library services remain relevant, inclusive and impactful.

If there’s one thing you’d like the community to understand about the role of the library in today’s society, what would it be?

The public library is more than just a place for books: It’s a vital community hub that provides access to information, technology and opportunities for lifelong learning. Today, libraries bridge the digital divide, support workforce development, promote literacy for all ages and offer a welcoming space for connection and discovery.

At their core, libraries are about equity: ensuring everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has the resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s a student seeking homework help, a job seeker learning new skills or an older adult attending a community program, the library is there to meet people where they are and empower them to grow. I want the community to view their library as a place that evolves with them — always ready to serve, adapt and inspire.

What do you perceive as the most pressing challenges facing the libraries in Prince William County, and how do you intend to address them?

One of the most pressing challenges facing Prince William Public Libraries is ensuring equitable access to library services across a rapidly growing and diverse community. With 12 locations and a mobile library, we already serve a wide range of needs, but as the county expands, so does the demand for more library services in areas where physical branches may not yet exist.

I see this challenge as an opportunity to reimagine how we can deliver library services. By leveraging technology and innovative service models, we can expand our reach beyond traditional library walls. Pop-up libraries in high-traffic community spaces, strategically placed library vending machines that offer popular materials on demand, and enhanced digital resources will help bridge service gaps. Additionally, offering mobile and virtual services — such as expanded e-book and audiobook collections, online programming, and virtual reference services — ensures that residents can access library resources anytime, anywhere. By planning creatively and remaining adaptable, Prince William Public Libraries can continue to meet the community’s needs while positioning itself as a leader in modern library service delivery.

What programs, initiatives or projects are you most excited about for the library in the next few years?

I’m excited to share that PWPL will launch its Level Up Challenge this fall. Level Up is a new program designed to engage with and foster a love of reading for students in grades K–12. PWPL’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a wonderful way to introduce our youngest readers to pre-reading skills that provide a solid reading foundation, a key to school and learning success. While 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten remains popular, PWPL does not have a comprehensive literacy program after children enter kindergarten.

PWPL’s Summer Reading and Winter Reading programs also help bring readers of all ages into our libraries to enjoy our programs and read to earn prizes, but the Level Up Challenge will truly take reading to the next level! Stay tuned for more details in the coming months.

How do you envision strengthening partnerships with local schools, businesses and other organizations?

PWPL values our collaboration and community engagement with community members. Built into our mission is to bring people, information and ideas together, and we couldn’t do that without local schools, businesses and organizations. We work diligently to strengthen partnerships by expanding student access to library resources, collaborating with schools on curriculum-aligned programs and bringing mobile library services to classrooms.

Partnering with local businesses, we will support workforce development through job fairs, small business workshops and financial literacy programs. Engaging with community organizations, we continue to provide health and wellness initiatives, cultural programming, and social services resources. Sponsorships from businesses will ensure the sustainability of essential programs like Summer Reading and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and support PWPL’s outreach efforts. By fostering these partnerships, the library is a vital resource for education, economic advancement and community support.

What do you believe is the most important value the library should provide to its patrons in an increasingly digital world?

PWPL provide equitable access to information, technology, and lifelong learning opportunities in an increasingly digital world. As the greater Prince William community grows and evolves, the library will continue bridging the digital divide by offering free internet access, digital literacy training, and emerging technology through our makerspaces and STEM programs. Even our approach to local history and genealogy is influenced by advancements in technology. We recently introduced our new Digital Preservation Lab at RELIC — with technology and software designed to preserve historical documents without damaging originals, visitors can now digitize their personal archives for free at the library.

Beyond technology, the library remains a cornerstone of education, civic engagement and community connection — offering virtual and in-person resources that support students, job seekers and lifelong learners alike. By expanding digital collections, enhancing online services and fostering innovation, PWPL can ensure that all residents have the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Prince William County:

Road Rage Shooting – Suspect at Large

Dale Blvd & Forestdale Ave (Dale City) – April 2, 2025
A man was shot at during a road rage incident while driving on Dale Blvd. The suspect, described as a Black male in his 30s with dreadlocks, fired multiple rounds before fleeing. The victim’s vehicle was struck, but no injuries were reported. Police are actively searching for the suspect.

Armed Robbery at Gas Station

Wawa – 13303 Telegraph Rd (Woodbridge) – April 1, 2025
A clerk was held at gunpoint by a masked suspect demanding cash. The suspect took an undisclosed amount of money and fled on foot. No injuries were reported. The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 5’10”, wearing all black clothing and a ski mask.

Assault on Police Officer

Prince William Pkwy & Hoadly Rd – April 1, 2025
A traffic stop turned violent when a driver became combative, striking an officer. The suspect, identified as Johnathan Parker, 32, of Manassas, was arrested and charged with assaulting an officer and resisting arrest.

Hit-and-Run Driver Crashes into Business

Sudley Rd (Manassas) – April 2, 2025
A driver lost control and crashed into a storefront before fleeing the scene. The business sustained major damage, but no injuries were reported. Police are reviewing surveillance footage to identify the suspect.

Stafford County:

Drug Bust at Local Church – Multiple Arrests

Victory Church (Garrisonville Rd) – April 1, 2025
A major drug operation was uncovered at a local church, where deputies found large amounts of narcotics and cash. Several individuals were arrested, and more charges are expected as the investigation continues.

DUI – Suspect Found Passed Out at Intersection

Route 610 & Mine Rd – April 2, 2025
Deputies discovered a driver unconscious at a red light with an open bottle of liquor in his lap. The suspect, a 36-year-old male from Stafford, was arrested for DUI and reckless driving.

Residential Burglary – Suspect Caught on Camera

Austin Ridge Dr – April 1, 2025
A homeowner reported a break-in caught on a Ring camera. The suspect forced entry through the back door and stole electronics before fleeing. Police are working to identify the suspect.

Vandalism – Vehicles Keyed in Parking Lot

Target – 1090 Stafford Market Pl – April 1, 2025
Multiple vehicles were keyed in the parking lot. Victims reported deep scratches along the sides of their cars. Surveillance footage is being reviewed.

The Haymarket Town Council revisited the proposed Islamic Center at 14600 Washington Street during a work session on March 31, continuing its review of a special use permit (SUP) application submitted by Mohammed Kasim Gul. The application seeks approval to establish a permanent place of worship in the old Pace West school building for the local Muslim community.

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I live by email, and, like you, I pay close attention to what lands in my inbox. I especially enjoy the messages that begin with, “Hey, Uriah,” — because I never know where they’re going next.

“Here’s a picture I took of a new restaurant — do you know when it’s going to open?”
“Here’s a photo of a crash — is everyone OK?”

Whether it’s breaking news, a community event, or something interesting you spotted around town, I want to hear from you.

The Friends of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library have launched a special membership drive for the month of April.

The Friends is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization established in 1972 to raise funds to enhance the services of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, focus public attention on the library, and support the library in developing services and facilities for the region.

To celebrate the drive, the Friends are offering membership rewards to anyone who joins or renews in April. Memberships come in multiple levels, each offering different perks. Friends of the Library are also eligible to become members of the Virginia Credit Union and Topside Federal Credit Union.

Learn more or join at crrlfriends.org/join-us

Upcoming Book Sale
The Friends will host a multi-day sale at the Friends of the Library Center & Bookshop, located at 125 Olde Greenwich Drive, Suite 150, Fredericksburg, 22408.

Sale schedule:

• Friday, April 4, 5 to 9 p.m. – Preview Night for Friends members only (non-members may join at the door)
• Saturday, April 5, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Monday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Half-price day
• Tuesday, April 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Half-price in the bookshop, $3 in the warehouse
• Wednesday, April 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Half-price in the bookshop, $3 in the warehouse

The shop will be closed April 1–3 and before 5 p.m. on April 4 to prepare for the sale.

Proceeds support professional development for library staff and popular community programs like Music on the Steps, the Claudia Emerson Teen Poetry Contest, and the Johnny P. Johnson Teen Art Show.

More information is available at facebook.com/CRRLFriends

Easter Events Around Town

Coles District Easter Egg Hunt
Supervisor Yesli Vega will host the Annual Coles District Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 5 at 10 a.m. at Kyle R. Wilson Elementary, 5710 Liberty Hill Court, Woodbridge.

The event includes games, snacks, activities, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The Prince William County Sheriff’s Office will also be on site providing free child ID services. No registration is required to attend.

Easter Bunny Visits Potomac Mills
The Easter Bunny arrives at Potomac Mills on Friday, April 4, and will be available for visits and photos through April 19.

The Bunny Photo Experience is open daily, and reservations are encouraged. A special Caring Bunny event for children with special needs and their families will take place Sunday, April 6 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Potomac Mills is located at 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge.
Learn more and make reservations at simon.com/mall/potomac-mills

Live Theater in Manassas: All My Sons Opens April 5
The ARTfactory in Historic Downtown Manassas will present Arthur Miller’s All My Sons, opening Saturday, April 5 and running through April 13 at the Wind River Theatre.

Set in the aftermath of World War II, the play follows a businessman whose past decisions threaten to tear his family apart. This classic drama explores themes of truth, guilt, and the cost of the American dream.

Performance schedule:

• Saturday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, April 6 at 2:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, April 13 at 2:00 p.m.

Note: The performance includes a simulated gunshot.
Tickets and information at virginiaartfactory.org

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As Fredericksburg city officials weigh budget cuts, tax increases, and federal funding uncertainties, one possible source of future financial relief came up during a joint City Council and School Board budget work session: a data center under development in Celebrate Virginia South.

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