CFH is hosting its 7th Annual 5K Run-Walk and 2nd Annual Cornhole Toss Tournament at Occoquan Regional Park on October 6, with a virtual 5K option available from October 6 to October 20. Participants are invited to bring non-perishable food items for CFH’s food pantry.
Press Release:
CFH, a 45-year-old Northern Virginia housing nonprofit, has announced that its 7th Annual CFH 5K Run-Walk for Affordable Housing and 2nd Annual Cornhole Toss Tournament will take place at Occoquan Regional Park at 9:30 am on October 6. The virtual 5k race will take place from October 6 – October 20, with registrants choosing their own course and time to participate. Interested participants can find more information and register online at cfhva.org. As part of this annual fundraiser, CFH is also asking race participants to bring non-perishable food items for its food pantry.
This annual fundraising event is held in honor of the late Father Gerard Creedon, a Northern Virginia Catholic priest who inspired a group of his parishioners to establish CFH in 1979 and guided the group to seek out ways to assist the community until his passing in 2017. In addition to its rescue and ongoing management of the East End Mobile Home Park in Manassas, Va., CFH conducts a variety of programs related to affordable rental housing, first-time homeownership and senior emergency assistance, and also runs a food pantry from East End.
Based in Manassas, Va., CFH helps individuals and families along a path of self- sufficiency, providing assistance to individuals and families all along the continuum of housing needs. The CFH board of directors represents a diverse group of individuals who provide expertise in business, development, architecture, financial services and real estate.
Birmingham Green has been recognized as one of "America's Best Nursing Homes" by Newsweek Magazine, ranking #1 in Northern Virginia for facilities with over 150 beds and #2 statewide. The rankings, compiled by Newsweek and Statista, evaluate nursing homes based on quality metrics, online surveys, accreditation data, and Google reviews, emphasizing medical performance indicators. CEO Denise Chadwick Wright and Administrator Aaron Rebuck attribute this achievement to their team's dedication to providing comprehensive and personalized care, enhancing residents' physical, emotional, and social well-being. Birmingham Green, serving Northern Virginians for over 90 years, continues its mission through a public-private partnership, offering essential long-term care services.
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Riverside Center for the Performing Arts in Fredericksburg is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season. It will showcase a diverse lineup of musicals, classic plays, and compelling dramas. With a mix of nostalgic favorites and thought-provoking productions, Riverside aims to offer something for everyone.
Season Opener: “Heartbreak Hotel”
The season kicks off in January with Heartbreak Hotel, a musical celebrating Elvis Presley’s rise. Featuring over 40 of his classic hits, the production promises to transport audiences back to the early days of rock and roll. Director Patrick A’Hearn expressed confidence that the show will be a hit, noting that “group ticket sales are already off the charts.” Heartbreak Hotel is set to be a fun and high-energy start to the new season, inviting the audience to relive the music and magic of a young Elvis.
A Powerful Story: “Jesus Christ Superstar”
In time for the Lenten season, Riverside will bring the iconic *Jesus Christ Superstar* to the stage. This legendary rock opera tells the story of the final week of Jesus’ life, focusing on the music’s emotional depth and power. “It’s a story that we all know, and it’s an inspirational one,” said A’Hearn. “From Elvis to Jesus, we’re moving through musical history and telling stories that people connect with on a deep level.”
A Classic Drama: “To Kill a Mockingbird”
One of the season’s highlights is the stage adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. Riverside will present the original version of Harper Lee’s beloved novel, featuring Fredericksburg native Tug Coker in the role of Atticus Finch. Coker, a Broadway veteran, will bring a local connection to this classic tale of justice and morality. “This is a story that needs to be told again and again,” A’Hearn emphasized, noting the play’s timeless relevance.
Addressing Mental Health: “Next to Normal”
In a powerful turn, Riverside will produce Next to Normal, the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical about a family dealing with mental illness. The show explores themes of bipolar disorder, grief, and resilience. Riverside is partnering with local mental health organizations to raise awareness through this production. A’Hearn described Next to Normal as “a story that will deeply move audiences” and added that it’s essential to address these issues on stage in a way that resonates with the community.
Nostalgic Favorite: “The Sound of Music”
Riverside will revive The Sound of Music for the 2025 season, marking the return of a beloved classic. A’Hearn will direct the production, ensuring a fresh and captivating take on this family favorite. While many know and love the movie version, A’Hearn believes the stage production has a unique appeal.
A’Hearn will direct Sound of Music. Although he had initially been hesitant to direct this iconic show, he is now looking forward to the challenge and is excited to bring a fresh perspective to this beloved classic.
Holiday Showstopper: “White Christmas”
The 2025 season will conclude with *White Christmas*, a holiday favorite known for its festive spirit and timeless songs. This musical will offer Riverside audiences a heartwarming year-end filled with familiar tunes and holiday cheer. A’Hearn noted that Riverside has done this show before, and it remains a crowd-pleaser that people look forward to during the holiday season.
Nurturing New Talent
Riverside Center continues to serve as a launching pad for young performers. The 2025 season will feature several high school and college students in various productions, including Heartbreak Hotel and Jesus Christ Superstar. Talented young performers like Aniyah Lee and Nyarai Burrell are already making their mark on the Riverside stage.
“Talent is talent, no matter the age,” said A’Hearn. “We’re lucky to have these young performers bringing their energy and skills to our productions, and it’s exciting to watch them grow.”
One of Riverside’s greatest strengths is the sense of community it fosters among its cast and crew. The 2025 season will see the return of several familiar faces, including cast members from past productions like Jersey Boys and They’re Playing Our Song. A’Hearn noted the importance of this continuity, explaining that it enhances both the onstage performances and the overall experience for audiences.
“We’ve built a family here, and that sense of community makes Riverside special,” said A’Hearn. “We aim to offer something for everyone, and that’s reflected not just in the shows we choose but in the talent we bring together to tell these stories.”
Tickets for Riverside’s 2025 season are now on sale.
The 2025 Fall Arts and Crafts Show will be held in historic Occoquan on September 28 and 29 from 10 am to 5 pm, featuring over 300 vendors, live music, and a Beer Garden. Attendees can enjoy artist demonstrations, participate in painting lessons, explore Imagination Alley for kids’ activities, and use shuttle services from nearby parking lots for $8 round trip.
Press Release:
It’s a maker, creator, and shopper paradise during the 2025 Fall Arts & Crafts Show! Over 300 vendors will line the streets of historic Occoquan offering unique, handmade, and artisan goods. Meet experienced artisans, talk to them about their work, and watch demonstrations of some of their craft techniques. Indulge in delicious festival fare and enjoy live music in the?Beer Garden?in beautiful River Mill Park. Master your creative side! Sign up for a painting lesson and create a masterpiece. Kids will want to make their own art too in Imagination Alley.
The Fall Arts & Crafts Show will be open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm both Saturday and Sunday, September 28 & 29 and will take place rain or shine. There is no admission fee at the gate. Shuttle service from nearby satellite parking lots is $8 round trip or 2 for $15. More information can be found at occoquanfestivals.com.
“The Fall Arts & Crafts Show is a perennial favorite in the region. It’s two days packed with a huge range of?hundreds of makers and creators from all over the region,” says Julie Little, Events Director. “This show has an amazing legacy, and this fall marks the 54th year of the Fall Arts & Crafts Show in the streets of the historic district!”
ARTS & CRAFTS and LIVE DEMOS
Discover a myriad of artisans, crafters, and makers along the streets in Occoquan’s beautiful historic district. Here, craftmanship is showcased in a wide variety of mediums and price points. Find treasures from favorite crafters and discover new talents. Visitors may meet experienced artisans, talk to them about their work, and even view demonstrations of some of their craft techniques.?Look for signs on vendor tents that say, “Ask Me About My Work!”
BEER GARDEN and LIVE MUSIC
The Fall Arts & Crafts Show will include a Beer Garden in River Mill Park, both days from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Local eatery, Bar J, will offer Frito Bandito with a side of chili to go with that beer! With plenty of seating, the park situated along the river is the perfect spot to take a break and listen to live music. 9th Gear is new to Occoquan and is the featured band on Saturday. The D.C. Transit Band also makes its Occoquan debut on Sunday. Pro-tip: by parking at the Route 123 Commuter Lot on Old Bridge Road, visitors can board the “Beer Garden Express” Green shuttle straight to the garden at River Mill Park. The main Food Court is situated at this end of town as well.
LEARN TO PAINT
Explore your creative side at our Learn to Paint sessions at Town Hall! Painting fosters relaxation, sparks creativity, and produces a one-of-a-kind piece of art by YOU! Local artist, Rachael Bright will guide you to create your own make-and-take acrylic masterpiece. So, bring a friend and unleash your inner artist! Tickets include all the supplies needed to get creative. Each session is approximately one hour. Reserve your space at occoquanfestivals.com/learntopaint.
IMAGINATION ALLEY
Located in the center of town at 305 Mill Street, Imagination Alley will be packed with make-and-take projects, performances, and tons of family fun. Here’s a sneak peek into just some of the excitement in store:
- Make your own art project from recycled craft supplies at the Art Bar
- Create a one-of-a-kind?masterpiece at the Spin Art machine
- Make your very own creation at the bracelet bar (fee)
- Get your face painted with Fairy Jennabelle (fee)
- Be inspired by our Junior Entrepreneurs
- And much more!
In addition to all the fun making and playing with art, Imagination Alley will feature some wonderful free performances from our community partners. The Alley will be open both days, 10 am to 5 pm. Be sure to check the website at occoquanfestivals.com/imagination or the program for the most up-to-date schedule of activities and performances.
SHUTTLE INFORMATION
At a cost of $8 per rider round trip, or 2 riders for $15, visitors may park at designated lots and be transported by shuttle into Town. Kids 12 and under ride free. This fall, shuttle riders may prepay their shuttle fees online at occoquanfestivals.com/shuttle or use cash or credit via QR code at the door. Visitors that prepay may simply show the shuttle stop attendant their receipt once they disembark in Occoquan. The shuttle runs for patrons from 9 am to 6 pm. Satellite parking can be found at three locations:
Purple Lot
Lake Ridge Commuter Lot
Corner of Old Bridge and Minnieville Roads, Woodbridge, VA
Drop off/Pick Up located at?the corner of Commerce and Washington StreetsGreen Lot (Beer Garden Express!)
Rt 123 Commuter Lot
Corner of Route 123 and Old Bridge Road, Woodbridge, VA
Drop off/Pick Up at the?Footbridge?by River Mill ParkYellow Lot*
Workhouse Arts Center
9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA
Drop off/Pick Up under the Route 123 Bridge*The Yellow Lot offers wheelchair-accessible shuttle service from 10 am to 5 pm both days. For more accessibility options for the craft show, see occoquanfestivals.com.
Ashlee Waldbauer returns to the Riverside stage with a show-stealing performance as Carole King. Her rendition of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” melts the audience and reminds us why King’s music continues to resonate across generations. Waldbaur, who also starred in Riverside’s spring production of They’re Playing Our Song, showcases an ability to channel the emotional depth and vulnerability that made King’s music timeless.
Another Riverside veteran, Zachary Spafford, brings powerhouse vocals to his portrayal of characters like one of the Righteous Brothers, delivering a stunning performance of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling.” Audiences will remember Spafford from his standout role as Frankie Valli in Riverside’s acclaimed production of Jersey Boys earlier this year, and his talent for hitting those high notes remains an undeniable highlight of the show.
Adding fun and charm, Andy Braden plays record producer Don Kirshner behind the famed Brill Building in New York City, the hub of pop songwriting in the 1960s. Braden’s portrayal provides comic relief and serves as a grounding force as the show transitions through the more turbulent parts of King’s personal and professional life.
The show’s pacing is brisk, keeping audiences on their toes with seamless costume and set changes, infectious dance numbers, and a compelling portrayal of the music industry’s shift from the polished pop songs of the early ’60s to the introspective singer-songwriter era of the later part of the decade, and 1970s. As King’s career evolves, so does the soundscape of the show, with the music growing more prosperous and more personal as it mirrors her journey to stardom.
Much like Jersey Boys, Beautiful invites the audience to sing along and often leaves them marveling, “I didn’t realize they did that song!” The show celebrates King’s profound impact on popular music, from her early collaborations with husband Gerry Goffin to her solo successes.
Aniyah Lee, who plays one of the Shirelles, is still in high school. “I’m very grateful to be where I am right now because this time last year, I was doing community theater, and now it’s a step up,” she said.
Nyarai Burrell, an understudy, said it has been eye-opening to work with so many locals and talent from all over the U.S. who have come to Fredericksburg to perform in the show. “This is my first show with Riverside, and the rehearsal process was incredible,” she said. “Being able to curate my own performance while preparing to step into any role has been a huge help.”
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical transports audiences back to the era of vinyl records, jukeboxes, and cultural revolutions, offering a musical ride that’s both exhilarating and deeply emotional. Winner of two Tony Awards, the production features a treasure trove of hit songs, including “I Feel the Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and the title song “Beautiful.”
Ticket prices for Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts vary. Adult tickets are priced at $82 plus applicable taxes for those looking to enjoy dinner and the show, while seniors aged 65 and over can attend for $77. Children between 3 and 17 can enjoy dinner and show combinations for $70. For guests interested in the show alone, adult tickets are available for $65, seniors for $60, and children’s tickets for $55. Note that there is a $5 online processing fee per ticket.
The performance schedule includes Wednesday matinees, with meal service running from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., followed by show-only arrivals at 12:45 p.m., and the performance beginning at 1:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday evening performances offer meal service and appetizers from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., with show-only arrivals at 6:45 p.m., and the performance starting promptly at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees provide meal service and appetizers from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., with show-only arrivals at 2:15 p.m., and the performance beginning at 3 p.m. Please be advised that meal service for all performances ends 45 minutes before the show starts.
A new craft brewery with a distinct German flair, Laudenbach Brewing, will bring a unique mix of classic German beers and modern craft favorites to Stafford this fall. Founder Zack Guy's vision is to create a warm, friendly atmosphere that mimics a Bavarian courtyard and offers a diverse selection of beers that cater to all tastes. The brewery is located at 45 Centreport Parkway.
“The goal is to create a quaint taproom with a sense of comradery. We want our customers to leave wanting to come back,” he explained.
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To everyone who had an eye on the restoration of Goolricks Pharmacy on Caroline Street in Fredericksburg as recently as this past spring, it seemed like a long time to wait for an old-fashioned milkshake, a cool treat for which Goolrick's became famous.
The original Goolricks Pharmacy opened in 1892. Now closed for business, the landmark is being restored to its former glory.
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Get ready to be transported through the life and music of one of the most influential songwriters of the 20th century. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is set to take the stage at the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts starting Wednesday, September 18, 2024, for a seven-week run.
The Tony Award-winning musical, based on a book by Douglas McGrath, tells the inspiring story of Carole King, born Carole Klein, a young Brooklyn songwriter who would go on to shape the soundtrack of a generation. Audiences will witness King’s journey from her early years penning chart-toppers for stars like The Shirelles and The Drifters to her own groundbreaking solo success with her album “Tapestry.”
The musical features a score packed with King’s greatest hits, including “I Feel the Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and, of course, the title song, “Beautiful.” With music and lyrics by Gerry Goffin, Carole King, Barry Mann, and Cynthia Weil, as well as additional arrangements by Steve Sidwell and Jason Howland, the show is a treat for fans of classic pop and rock.
Ticket Information
Ticket prices for *Beautiful: The Carole King Musical* vary based on the performance and package:
– Adult Dinner & Show: $82 (plus applicable taxes)
– Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show: $77 (plus applicable taxes)
– Children (3-17) Dinner & Show: $70 (plus applicable taxes)
– Adult Show Only: $65
– Seniors (65+) Show Only: $60
– Children (3-17) Show Only: $55
The theater charges a $5 online processing for each ticket purchased online.
Showtimes and Dining Schedule
The Riverside Theater offers meal service before performances, providing a delightful experience for both dinner and show patrons. Food service stops 45 minutes before showtime.
Wednesday Matinees:
– 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.: Meal Service
– 12:45 p.m.: Show-Only Arrival
– 1:30 p.m.: Performance Start
Thursday-Saturday Evenings:
– 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.: Meal Service
– 6:45 p.m.: Show-Only Arrival
– 7:30 p.m.: Performance Start
Sunday Matinees:
– 1 to 2:15 p.m.: Meal Service
– 2:15 p.m.: Show-Only Arrival
– 3:00 p.m.: Performance Start
For tickets and more information, visit the Riverside Theater’s website.
Heather Haney, a participant in the Leadership Prince William Signature Program Class of 2025, shared her journey with the organization, reflecting on how it began with the Emerging Leaders Program. Haney’s involvement in Leadership Prince William started in 2018 after a friend encouraged her to apply.
“I was in a tough headspace at the time, working on launching my own business,” Haney said. “My friend, who was already involved with Leadership Prince William, suggested I give it a try.”
Haney first enrolled in the Emerging Leaders Program, an eight-week course for those seeking a preview of the more extensive Leadership Prince William Signature Program. “It’s a great option for people not ready to commit to the full 10-month program,” Haney explained. “Each week, community leaders come in to speak about leadership and managing both yourself and others.”
During her time in the Emerging Leaders Program, Haney learned valuable skills in leadership and communication. “Bob Schneider from OmniRide and Greg Ballard were two speakers who resonated with me. They really helped me understand the dynamics of working with clients and business professionals,” she said.
After completing the Emerging Leaders Program, Haney was eager to further her involvement and enrolled in the Class of 2025 Signature Program. “I was nervous but knew I needed to be part of the community. I wanted to build my business acumen and be more involved in Prince William County,” Haney said.
The Class of 2025 will kick off at the Hylton Performing Arts Center on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The morning event will begin with breakfast and networking from 7:30 to 8 a.m., followed by a send-off program from 8 to 8:45 a.m. The program will include a welcome to new members, sponsor recognition, and a special moment as the Class of 2024 “passes the torch” to the incoming participants.
A fun tradition at the event is the awarding of the “Golden Pineapple” to the class with the highest attendance. “It’s all about encouragement and welcoming new members to the Leadership Prince William family,” Haney said.
Haney, originally from Pennsylvania, moved to Northern Virginia in 2000 and has lived in Manassas since 2005. She started her business, Calluna’s Lens, during the 2020 pandemic, providing photography and marketing services. She continues to expand her business while growing her leadership skills through the Signature Program.
“Leadership Prince William has given me a more professional mindset and helped me understand how to approach challenges in business,” Haney said. “For anyone thinking about joining, I recommend just reaching out and learning more. It’s been a great experience for me.”
