OmniRide is the operating name for the mobility services offered by the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC). OmniRide’s goal is to provide safe, reliable and flexible transportation options while helping to reduce congestion and pollution in one of the region’s fastest growing areas. OmniRide’s headquarters are in Woodbridge, Virginia, about 25 miles southwest of Washington, D.C.
From blue jeans to business attire to brides, Tang’s is both a full-service alteration shop and private bridal studio located in Manassas, VA.
Dear Readers,
We are excited to announce the launch of our History and Heritage Feature Series, sponsored by Sentara. This special series celebrates the rich cultural heritage and history of Prince William County, Stafford County, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg.
We will delve into the historical events, landmarks, and personal stories that have shaped our communities. From in-depth articles on significant historical milestones to spotlights on notable landmarks and engaging oral histories from long-time residents, our series aims to connect you with the past in a meaningful and enlightening way.
We are proud to partner with Sentara, a name synonymous with community involvement and support. Sentara’s sponsorship helps make this series possible, allowing us to bring these important stories to you while highlighting their commitment to preserving our local history.
Join us as we explore the places, events, and people that tell the story of our region’s past. Understanding our history is crucial to building a better future and maintaining the rich traditions that define us.
Thank you for your continued support of local journalism.
Uriah Kiser
Founder & Publisher
Potomac Local News
Combining Historical and Environmental Education
Prince William County’s Historic Preservation Division has unveiled plans for a new addition to the Rippon Lodge Historic Site in Woodbridge: a Nature and Interpretive Center combining historical and environmental education. The project promises to serve as a hub for learning and exploration, reflecting the rich history of the site and the surrounding region while promoting environmental stewardship.
Rich Historical Legacy of Rippon Lodge
Rippon Lodge, dating back to the 1740s, stands as one of the oldest homes in Prince William County. Over the years, it has undergone significant preservation efforts led by the county’s Historic Preservation Office, with support from the Board of County Supervisors and various grants. “Rippon Lodge is one of the county’s treasures,” said Sharon Pandak, treasurer of the Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation and a key project advocate. “This center will help preserve its rich legacy, spanning from colonial times to the present, and highlight the diversity of communities—enslaved people, Native Americans, and others—who shaped this region.”
A Dual-Focus Center
The new Nature and Interpretive Center is designed to be a comprehensive educational facility, blending historical interpretation with environmental science. Bill Backus of the county’s Historic Preservation Division emphasized the importance of this dual focus. “We’re aiming to create a space where visitors can learn about both the colonial history of the area and the natural resources along Neabsco Creek,” said Backus. “The center will also serve as an environmental hub, helping to fill a gap for Prince William residents.”
The center will be located southwest of the main Rippon Lodge property, offering scenic views of the Potomac River and close proximity to the Neabsco Boardwalk Regional Park. “This is Prince William County’s answer to Huntley Meadows,” said Pandak, referring to the 1,500-acre wetland area near Alexandria.”We hope to make it even better.” The design is still flexible, but plans include historical exhibits, an environmental education pavilion, and space for community gatherings and events.
Community Impact and Vision
The center will serve as both a museum and a nature center, making it a unique resource for the county. According to Backus, the center’s location near the Neabsco Boardwalk offers “a wonderful opportunity to engage with local wildlife and ecosystems while also exploring the history of eastern Prince William County.”
The Neabsco Creek Boardwalk, part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, offers visitors an immersive experience in one of Woodbridge’s most valuable natural assets—the Potomac River waterfront. Stretching 3,300 feet and measuring 10 feet wide, the boardwalk traverses Neabsco Creek, providing a gateway to the region’s wetlands. These wetlands play a vital role in the ecosystem, with their tall grasses and marshlands naturally filtering pollution from the river while creating a rich habitat for various wildlife.
Among the winged species that call the area home are great blue herons, wood ducks, mallards, sparrows, and red-The boardwalk features two observation decks—one two-level and one single-level—as well as three overlooks, each offering stunning views of the surrounding wetlands.
As part of the broader Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, which Congress established in 1983, the boardwalk links historic landmarks such as Rippon Lodge and Leesylvania State Park. The Potomac Heritage Trail stretches over 800 miles, winding through Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. This network of trails not only preserves natural beauty but also connects visitors to the region’s rich history.
The project will enhance public access to the site and generate revenue through private events such as weddings and corporate gatherings. “It’s a stunning location,” said Pandak. “I’ve always thought it would be perfect for weddings or community events, and this center will open up those possibilities, all while supporting ongoing preservation work.”
Funding and Timeline
The project is expected to cost several million dollars, with contributions from donations, corporate sponsors, and local government funding. “We’re looking at a five-year timeline, but it all depends on funding,” said Pandak. “We’re hopeful that a large portion will come from contributions, and we’ve already begun initial fundraising efforts.”
Backus added, “The exact cost will depend on the final design, but we’re estimating at least a couple of million dollars. We’ll need support from the Board of Supervisors, as well as state-level funding, to make this a reality.”
Future Opportunities and Community Support
In addition to its educational role, the center is expected to host community events, educational programs, and tour groups. It will also generate income for ongoing restoration efforts at Rippon Lodge, contributing to its long-term preservation.
“This project will be transformative for Rippon Lodge and for the broader community,” said Pandak. “We encourage residents and local businesses to get involved and support our efforts through donations.”
For more information or to contribute to the project, visit the Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation’s website at preservepw.org.
This center promises to deepen the public’s connection to Prince William County’s history while fostering a new appreciation for the area’s environmental beauty. As Pandak stated, “This is our gift to the community—a place where history and nature come together for future generations to enjoy.”
In this Local Business In Focus, we talked with Cristian Abrigo, operations manager at NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair. Call them today at 703-690-3889 or nvwaterproofing.com for all your wet basement solutions, foundation repair, crack repair, drainage systems, and new home waterproofing needs.
In a recent interview, Cristian Abrigo, operations manager at NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair, shared his journey within the company and gave an overview of the services they provide to homeowners.
“I joined NV Waterproofing in 2019 as a design specialist. I was out on the field actually visiting with homeowners and going through what issues they were experiencing and how we could help them,” Abrigo explained. His role involved direct interactions with clients, assessing their issues firsthand, which gave him a deep understanding of homeowners’ everyday challenges.
After two years in the field, Abrigo transitioned into an operations role. “And then, after doing that for two years, I moved into an operations role here at NV, and since then, which was at the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022, I’ve been handling all the operations portions and permits for NV,” he said.
In his current role, Abrigo oversees critical aspects of the business, such as permit applications, inspections, and crew scheduling. “Almost every job that we have that’s required by the county we go and get permits for that county, that city, or whatever jurisdiction that’s in. So, I handle the application process of that, the inspection process, and then getting those closed out. I also handle all the scheduling of our crews,” he noted.
The company specializes in addressing specific waterproofing, crawl space repair, and foundation repair needs. These services directly tackle the issues Abrigo and his team frequently encounter in the field. “We specialize in waterproofing, crawl space repair, and foundation repair,” said Abrigo, highlighting the scope of NV Waterproofing’s expertise.
From his initial role to his current position, Abrigo has focused on direct client interaction and operational efficiency, ensuring that the company meets and exceeds the expectations of the homeowners they serve. Through his insights, it’s clear that NV Waterproofing is dedicated to solving the real and pressing issues affecting homes in the region.
Based in Manassas, the NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair team has served Greater Washington D.C. with quality basement waterproofing and foundation repair services since 1986. We specialize in wet basement solutions, foundation repair, crack repair, drainage systems, and new home waterproofing throughout Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.
In this Local Business In Focus, we talked with Cristian Abrigo, operations manager at NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair. With hurricane season at its peak, NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair urges residents to take immediate action to secure their homes, ensuring peace of mind as storms approach. Call them today at 703-690-3889 or nvwaterproofing.com for all your wet basement solutions, foundation repair, crack repair, drainage systems, and new home waterproofing needs.
Cristian Abrigo, Operations Manager at NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair, emphasizes the urgent need for homeowners to prepare for the hurricane season. With peak season upon us, proactive measures are essential to prevent and manage potential water damage.
Abrigo advises homeowners not to delay in addressing vulnerabilities in their homes.
“Definitely calling the sooner the better usually, we see most homeowners wait until that storm comes or we’re experiencing that storm to then call us. And at that point, a lot of people are also putting in calls. So you’re getting added to a list that’s a little bit longer so preparing for it. Knowing that, ‘hey, these storms are upcoming. Maybe I get someone to come out and take a look at this.’”
“Now, to prepare what could I do rather than once it happens. Then having someone come out, we do everything that we can to get to people as quickly as possible. Because one of course, we want to help them but we also know it’s an urgent matter,” he stated.
The urgency is clear—waiting until the last minute can result in longer wait times for services and could lead to more significant damage. Abrigo underscores the importance of being proactive, especially with storms on the horizon. “If you’ve experienced these issues before, it’s definitely going to suffer with these harder rains and more frequent,” he said.
NV Waterproofing provides specialized services to enhance home resilience, such as installing sump pumps with battery backups and secondary systems to ensure functionality even during power outages.
“Even as simple as if you haven’t had a water issue, but maybe you live in an area where the power goes out during these storms. Those are things that homeowners should be thinking of; maybe I should think of a sump pump that can handle if the power goes out, having a battery backup, and having another secondary pump on standby. So those are things that we can offer and take care of for these residents,” Abrigo explained.
In conclusion, Abrigo reiterates the company’s commitment to the community, especially during critical times.
“We are critical on helping the community; we want to help these homeowners that live here. We live in such a great area near the nation’s capital, and we also have so many great homes, but many of them suffer from these storms and, unfortunately, the drainage around them. So if there’s anything that we can do to help, we want to do that. And we’re a company that leads in helping our community and ensuring they’re safe,” he concluded.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to make an extraordinary impact in the lives of young people and families, and work alongside a supportive, encouraging a group of colleagues, Youth For Tomorrow is for you.
As we continue to grow and expand our program services to support more troubled teens, we have an immediate need for additional staff members in several areas within our residential programs. We are seeking compassionate individuals who want to make a positive impact on the lives of the youth in our care. Perhaps you, or someone you know, would be interested in joining our team!
“YFT reminds me of a big family. Family is very important in everything we do here. We work for the good of those we serve and strive to provide a safe haven for those in need.”
“Everyone here builds unique relationships with their co-workers, uplift each other, prays for one another and work together, which, of course, are examples of core family concepts. YFT brings together a multitude of people from all walks of life and encourages growth — personal and professional — amongst its employees.” — Mikka Sturdivant (YFT Staff Member, 20 years)
We are seeking qualified staff for several positions, including Residential Counselors, Case Managers, Mental Health Counselors, Teaching Assistants and more. Each position plays a vital role in providing children and their families the opportunity to refocus their lives and to develop confidence, life skills, intellectual ability, spiritual insight, and moral integrity.
Our greatest needs are for individuals who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Whether you are interested in direct care with the kids, or supporting them from behind the scenes, we are looking for compassionate and dedicated individuals who share our commitment to fostering growth and healing. These roles are essential to maintaining the high standards of care and support that YFT is known for.
As a YFT team member, you will receive comprehensive training, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued. If you are ready to contribute your time and talents to change lives, we encourage you to apply today.
Youth for Tomorrow provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits illegal discrimination and harassment based on race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or veteran status.
Youth for Tomorrow exercises its right as a religious organization to employ people consistent with its religious beliefs, practices, and observances.
Calling all young swimmers! The Manassas Park Sharks Swim Team is ready to dive into the fall season, and they want you to be part of the team! Open to participants aged 5-16, the program is designed for swimmers who can swim 50 yards each of freestyle and backstroke. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or new to the sport, this is a fantastic opportunity to improve your skills and be part of a fun and supportive team environment.
Program Details:
– Age Group: 5-16 years old
– Requirements: Participants must be able to swim 50 yards each of freestyle and backstroke. A swim test, swim lesson instructor sign-off, or proof of previous swim team participation is required before the first practice.
– Included: Each participant will receive a Manassas Park Swim Team swim cap.
Pricing:
– Non-Residents (NR): $210
– Residents (R): $185
– Members (M): $160
– All Access Members (AAM): Free
Important Dates:
– Season Duration: September 9th – November 16th, 2024
– Time Trials: September 13th, 2024
– Scrimmage: November 18th, 2024
– End of Season Banquet: November 22nd, 2024
Practice Schedule:
– 9 and Under:
– Monday: 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM
– Thursday: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
– Friday: 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM (both age groups)
– Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (both age groups)
– 10 and Up:
– Monday: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
– Thursday: 7:45 PM – 8:30 PM
– Friday: 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM (both age groups)
– Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (both age groups)
Note: Practices will no longer be held on Wednesdays.
Ready to register? Scan the QR code in the image or visit mpdpr.com/SharksFall24 to sign up.
For more information, contact Grace Cruz at [email protected] or call 703-335-8872.
Join the Manassas Park Sharks Swim Team and make a splash this fall!
Explore our great city in a truly unforgettable way!
Join D.C.’s only car-free, social bike ride on Saturday, September 7 with our exclusive 15% OFF discount.
Just click the link or button below and enter promo code LOCALNEWS15 at checkout.
Perfect for first-time riders and avid cyclists alike, DC Bike Ride takes riders past some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial for the perfect photo op.
More than just a bike ride, DC Bike Ride features live music and entertainment throughout the entire course to keep riders moving, several well-stocked rest stops to refuel with snacks and beverages, and a celebratory Finish Festival (open to the public) near the Capital Building with plenty of entertainment, beer, and delicious food to enjoy with family and friends.
Visit DC Bike Ride to learn more and browse our range of Ride Passes. Remember to use promo code LOCALNEWS15 to save 15% off a standard Ride Pass.
See you at the start line at the intersection of 12th Street and Constitution Ave., NW on September 7!
Is your basement ready for this heavy rain from Debby? Water can sneak in through cracks in your foundation walls, causing costly damage.
NV Waterproofing is here to help!
We install top-notch waterproofing systems to keep your basement dry for years to come.
Call now for a FREE inspection and estimate. You’ll be glad you did!
703-690-3889
