Stafford County’s Sheriffs will host Coffee with a Cop on October 30 at The Grounds Coffeehouse from 9 – 11 a.m.

The Coffee with a Cop program is a free, public event that allows community members to ask questions or have casual conversations with deputies. Spokesperson Ryan Wilbur said, “The goal has been and will always be to build a meaningful relationship with deputies and community members.”

The program provides a neutral space for the community to interact with law enforcement outside of active incidents and helps build positive connections. All deputies are welcome to attend, with Crime Prevention officers often present, but others, like School Resource Officers and K-9 deputies, participate when available.

The department typically holds the event once a month, depending on other scheduled activities. Common concerns raised during the events include traffic and roadway safety, which are passed on to the Traffic Safety Unit for investigation. The events are also opportunities to ask questions about jobs and the hiring process, or learn more about recent community incidents.

Stafford’s Coffee with a Cop program began in October 2017 as part of National Coffee with a Cop Day. Initially held once a year, the program was expanded to monthly events about three years ago when Deputy F.C. Shannon Jr. took charge. Locations are chosen randomly with the permission of local businesses, and the department tries to offer events in all areas of the county.

Wilbur said children seem to have the most fun at the events and enjoy learning about what deputies do. He added some community members just visit for the chance to chat, “almost like old friends meeting up.”

The Grounds Coffeehouse is located at 50 North Stafford Complex Center.

Fredericksburg’s streets were full of costumed children (and adults) for the annual Treats in the Streets.

Fredericksburg has hosted this event since 2016, where families are invited to dress up in Halloween costumes and stroll downtown, stopping at participating businesses to collect treats, toys, books, and gifts.

Volunteer crossing guards helped man intersections without traffic lights.

The city’s Scarecrow Fest, where participants are given a map and asked to find all scarecrows downtown, continues until October 31. Participating businesses have ballots for visitors to vote for their favorite scarecrow. Ballots are also available on the Scarecrow Fest website.

 

 

The annual Stafford County Agricultural and Homemaking Fair is this weekend, October 17 through 20.  The fair is located at University of Mary Washington’s Stafford Campus, 121 University Boulevard.  The fair is open Saturday from 12 to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 7 p.m. In addition to vendors, rides, and carnival treats, Saturday and Sunday will feature Children’s Power Wheel Derbies and  Pedal Tractor Pulls.

Next week, the Fredericksburg Nationals will host FredNats Fall Fest on Oct. 25. The family event is free to attend, but parking is $6 per vehicle. In addition to a pumpkin carving contest, the stadium will feature arts and crafts, fall-themed foods, goats, and trick or treating on the concourse. Pumpkins must be labeled with contact information, carved and dropped off during the week for the competition. Costumes are encouraged. FredNats Fall Fest is open from 6 to 9 p.m.

Dear Readers,

We are excited to present to you the second installment 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

Annaburg Manor Unveils First Phase of Renovations, Opens to Public

This Saturday, the City of Manassas will celebrate the ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Annaburg Manor, a historic estate built in 1892 by the Portner family. Once a nursing home and hospital, the manor was purchased by the city in 2019 with the vision of transforming it into a public park. After years of renovations, the first phase of the project is complete, opening the grounds to the public.

Mary Helen Dellinger, Curator at the Manassas Museum, spoke about the challenges the city faced while restoring the manor. “The single biggest challenge for us was that there were no architectural plans showing what the building looked like before. We don’t know what the inside of it looked like during Portner’s time; we only have pictures of the outside,” Dellinger explained. Changes made by previous owners complicated efforts to determine which parts of the house were original and which were later additions. To aid the process, the city worked with Portner’s descendants and used old photographs.

The restoration of Annaburg Manor was more of a renovation than a true historical restoration, according to Dellinger. “The home was in rough shape. There was mold, debris, and old systems that needed to be replaced,” she said. While they chose not to fully restore the home to its original 1892 condition, the team aimed to stay as faithful as possible to its historic design.

One notable feature of the renovation is the addition of a fountain to the manor’s grounds. While the original fountain was custom-cast and could not be replicated, a new fountain was installed that pays homage to the original water feature. “It’s not the exact sculpture that was there, but I think it’ll make the house look nice and is a nod to the original fountain,” Dellinger noted.

Beyond the structural renovations, the project aims to enhance the community’s green spaces. “One of the things we heard from the community was that there was nowhere in that area of town that was walkable,” Dellinger shared. Annaburg Manor is expected to provide much-needed green space where locals can relax and enjoy nature.

Looking ahead, there are plans for further development. While the public will initially only be able to tour the grounds, Dellinger hinted at future events and rental opportunities. “You’ll be able to rent the space for any kind of event,” she said, adding that the manor’s spacious porch would make it a picturesque wedding venue, with meetings and other gatherings possible inside the house.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 19, at 9201 Maple Street, Manassas.

The 4th Annual Manassas Park Latino Fest, “Unidos en Fiesta,” will occur Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, on September 29, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature live performances, food, games, and activities, promoting community unity and cultural appreciation.

The event was rescheduled, according to Manassas Park Council woman Yesi Amaya, who said, “We had to change the date to Sunday, October 6 due to weather.”

Potomac Local News learned of the change only after this story was posted.

Press Release:

Manassas Park Gears Up for the 4th Annual Latino Fest “Unidos en Fiesta”

Manassas Park, VA – September 29, 2024 – The vibrant spirit of Latin American culture will come alive at the 4th Annual Manassas Park Latino Fest, “Unidos en Fiesta,” on Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 10 AM to 6 PM. This much-anticipated celebration, organized by the Manassas Park Latino Fest Committee and chaired by Council Member Yesy Amaya, promises a day filled with music, food, and community unity at Signal Hill Park.

Live performances from talented groups and soloists will take center stage, showcasing the sounds and rhythms that define Latino heritage. Festival-goers will also enjoy a variety of food, games, arts and crafts, and much more, making it a fun and family-friendly experience for all. Special appearances by Latino Fest Queen Heydi Martinez and Vice Queen Sonia Lovo will highlight the day’s festivities.

Guided by the values of inclusivity, respect, and cultural appreciation, the mission of the Latino Fest is to foster a joyous and welcoming atmosphere where people from all backgrounds can come together to celebrate the richness of Latino traditions, art, music, and cuisine.

“We are excited to once again bring this event to life and unite our community in celebration of the vibrant Latino culture,” said Yesy Amaya, Chair of the Manassas Park Latino Fest Committee. “This festival is a testament to the strength and beauty of diversity in our city, and we look forward to welcoming everyone.”

A special thanks goes out to our Silver Sponsor, WG Contracting, for their generous support in making this event possible.

Event Details:
What: 4th Annual Manassas Park Latino Fest “Unidos en Fiesta”
When: Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, September 29, 2024, 10 AM – 6 PM
Where: Manassas Park City Plaza, 100 Park Central Plaza
Admission: Free

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/MPLatinoFest or contact Yesy Amaya 571-359-3188

Come join us for a day of unity, culture, and celebration!

Ferry Farm, the historical boyhood home of George Washington, will host a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community Day on Oct. 6. Visitors will be provided with American Sign Language (ASL) tour guides at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.  Tours begin at the back porch of the Washington house, a five-minute walk from the Visitor Center, and pre-registration is encouraged. Each session is limited to 10 guests.

The event began around 10 years ago as part of Virginia Archaeology Month in October.  In 2018, the focus of the tours shifted to the Washington House, and in Spring of 2023, the program was added to Historic Kenmore as well. Allison Ellis, the George Washington Foundation’s Manager of Public Programs, said in addition to programs at Ferry Farm and Historic Kenmore, they are adding a new archaeology-focused Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community Day where guests will be able to speak with Ferry Farm archaeologists at the lab and at the dig site with an ASL interpreter.

Ellis said, “These events are on our calendar every year, so anyone who wants to come visit either of our sites and learn more about the history of the region can do just that with confidence.  We host these events as part of our mission to make history accessible for all.” She also noted the first floor of the reconstruction of the Washington House is wheelchair accessible, as are the Ferry Farm and Historic Kenmore Visitor Centers.

Ferry Farm offers guided tours of the Washington House replica that explore the lives of George Washington, his mother Mary, other Washington family members, and the enslaved community who lived there. The tour highlights the hardships these individuals faced after the death of George’s father, Augustine Washington. Visitors begin at the Visitor Center, where they can purchase tickets and explore The Science of History at Ferry Farm. This exhibit showcases colonial and Civil War artifacts excavated at Ferry Farm and offers a view into the Archaeology Lab, where experts study thousands of artifacts.

A new mini-exhibit displays artifacts related to the presence and use of horses, focusing on the safety of both horses and riders. Visitors can view the grounds before and after their guided tours.

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 Streets

Green 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 Park

Yellow 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.

 The Prince William County Police Department hosted its fourth community fair, dubbed “Diversity Day,” on Saturday, September 7, 2024. The community came together to celebrate the things that make Prince William County unique. The event, created in 2020, is held every year to humanize the badge and introduce the community to those entrusted to keep the community safe.

Prince William County Police has consistently received high marks from the public in annual customer satisfaction surveys.

 

Stafford County has announced the return of its annual Fall Festival on Oct. 5 at John Lee Pratt Memorial Park. The family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The festival will include several food trucks and vendors, as well as live music from the Leroy Burks Band. Alpacas, hayrides, a petting zoo and pony rides will be on site. Those wishing to participate in the Pumpkin Derby are asked to pre-register.

Stafford Tourism Program Director Lisa Logan said the Fall Family Festival was designed “to promote a sense of community, to provide new and innovative programming for all ages, and to enhance family-oriented recreational opportunities within our community.”  The event was first began in 2015, and was centered around the Annual Pumpkin Derby, Logan said. The festival typically has around 500 guests.

There is no charge for admission.