The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is hosting its Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA to support local families affected by the criminal justice system. Running through December 8, the community is encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys at drop-off locations across the Workhouse campus. The drive aims to bring holiday joy while emphasizing the center’s commitment to creativity, compassion, and community engagement. For more information, visit the Workhouse Arts Center’s website.

Press Release:

Workhouse Arts Center is excited to continue its tradition of giving back with its Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA. Running through Sunday, December 8, the community is invited to donate new, unwrapped toys for local families impacted by the criminal justice system. Donation drop-off locations include the Visitor Center (Bldg 16), Lucy Burns Museum (Bldg 2), and Art of Movement (Bldg 11) at Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA.

The Toy Drive runs through December 8, with new, unwrapped toys collected at the Workhouse. “Our community thrives on creativity and compassion,” says Keith Gordon, CEO of Workhouse Arts Center. “Every toy donated brings joy and reminds us of all of the differences we can make in the lives of others.”

Donations can be dropped off at the holiday tree in W16. Help us make the season brighter for local families and share the magic of the holidays!

For more information, visit Workhouse Arts Center Toy Drive.

About Workhouse Arts Center

The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability, the Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. Visit us online at www.workhousearts.org to learn more.

About Workhouse Arts Center

The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability, the Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.

Workhouse Haunt is back for its 11th season, delivering spine-chilling thrills with a twisted take on classic fairy tales. Running every weekend from October 4 to November 2, this haunted trail through the historic Workhouse prison will transport guests into reimagined, terrifying versions of Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more. With pre- and post-trail festivities, including food trucks, Halloween art, and DJ music, it’s a must-see for thrill-seekers.

Special sensory-friendly sessions are available for families on October 20. Tickets start at $25.

Press release:

Brace yourself for the return of Northern Virginia’s most spine-tingling Halloween tradition—Workhouse Haunt. Now in its 11th season, this eagerly anticipated event promises a heart-pounding journey through the eerie remnants of the historic Workhouse prison. Kicking off on October 4, Workhouse Haunt: Twisted Tales of Terror will immerse visitors in a world where classic fairy tales take a dark and twisted turn.

This year’s theme brings to life over a dozen terrifying scenes, reimagining beloved stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Pinocchio with a sinister twist. As participants navigate the haunted trail, they will encounter gruesome characters and nightmarish surprises around every corner—perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween enthusiasts alike.

The Haunt runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2, with a special event on Halloween night, Thursday, Oct. 31. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $25. To secure your spot visit www.workhousearts.org.

Pre and Post-Trail Festivities
To keep everything moving along, guests will travel in small groups via a timed entry. While awaiting their timed entry or after surviving the trail, the Rizer Pavilion offers a festive Halloween atmosphere. Enjoy DJ-spun tunes (Fridays, Saturdays, and Halloween Night), a variety of themed drinks at the bar, delectable treats from local food trucks, and unique Halloween-inspired art and souvenirs at the Haunt Pop-up Shop.

“We’re proud that the Workhouse Haunt has become a cornerstone of Halloween in Northern Virginia,” said Keith Gordon, President and CEO. “As an extension of the Workhouse Performing Arts program, the Haunt also provides an opportunity for local talent to showcase their skills, with nearly 100 participants crafting an experience that’s as terrifying as it is theatrical.”

Haunt: Twisted Tales of Terror Schedule:

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October

Gates open at 6:30 pm, first group dispatched to trail at 7 pm
On Fridays and Saturdays, final groups will be dispatched by 10:30 pm
On Sundays, final groups will be dispatched by 9:30 pm

Thursday, October 31, Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2
Gates open at 6 pm, first group dispatched to trail at 6:30 pm
Final groups will be dispatched by 9:30 pm

The Haunt is generally not recommended for children under 13 years old; however, special designated sensory friendly trail times are available on Sunday, October 20 for families that would like to experience the trail without strobe lighting, overall lower volume levels of sounds, and scares that are not as intense. See the website for specific times.

The Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department has launched a Little Free Library in front of Station 14 to honor Assistant Chief Michael Clark’s 35 years of service and commitment. This initiative aims to enhance literacy and community engagement by allowing members to borrow and share books at no cost.

Press Release:

This week, the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWL VFD) proudly unveils its newest community initiative: a Little Free Library dedicated to Assistant Chief Michael Clark. Located in front of Station 14, the library is a tribute to Chief Clark’s 35 years of service, commitment to education, and lifelong dedication to the OWL VFD.

Rescue Chief Sandra Williams, who also serves as a school teacher, envisioned the Little Free Library as a way to promote literacy and knowledge-sharing within the community. “Many children lack regular access to books outside of school, making initiatives like our Little Free Library crucial,” said Williams. “The library not only connects us to the community but also empowers young minds with the joy of reading, encouraging imagination, creativity, and critical thinking.”

The Little Free Library is a simple yet powerful concept—a “take a book, share a book” exchange where community members can leave or borrow books at no cost. The library at OWL VFD will offer books for all ages, making it a welcoming space for families, individuals, and firefighters to enjoy. This initiative fosters a love for reading while promoting community engagement and connection.

Chief Michael Clark, a life member of OWL VFD and the library’s namesake, has been an inspiration to the department and community throughout his decades of service. Despite facing ALS, Clark continues to share his knowledge and passion for fire service through his role on the Board of Directors and by leading the department’s history group. His efforts have preserved the legacy of OWL VFD, providing valuable lessons and inspiration to its members.

Reflecting on his career, Clark said, “Back when I started in 1976, it was about giving back to my community. As time went on, OWL gave me the training and knowledge to support my advancement through the ranks of the department. Over the last 40+ years, I’ve seen the challenges of the department to keep providing services to the community. Unfortunately, due to my illness, I wasn’t able to continue my goals for my position and the department. I had a great career in the fire service, but I wish that I could do more.”

The Little Free Library at Station 14 is more than just a collection of books—it represents OWL VFD’s ongoing commitment to education, community service, and honoring the contributions of its members. The department invites the public to visit, borrow a book, and join in celebrating Chief Clark’s lasting legacy.

For more information on OWL VFD and its community outreach programs, visit www.owlvfd.org

About OWL VFD:

The Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWL VFD) has been serving the local community since 1938, providing fire and emergency services to protect lives, property, and the environment. OWL VFD is one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in Virginia, responding to more than 20,000 calls annually.

Amtrak is launching a sale for travelers looking to avoid Interstate 95 and opt for a trip aboard Auto Train. Through July 31, 2024, customers can book Coach Class for as low as $75, plus the cost of a vehicle. Children ages two through 12 ride free in Coach Class or First Class private rooms.

The cost to transport a vehicle on the Amtrak Auto Train varies based on the type of vehicle. For standard cars, the cost starts at $208. Extended vehicles, such as trucks, vans, and larger SUVs, are priced at $239. Motorcycles can be transported for $146. Additionally, there is a $60 charge for priority offloading, which ensures your vehicle is among the first 30 to be unloaded upon arrival.

Guests traveling in Coach Class have wide, reclining seats with legroom, no middle seat, and a large window. A complimentary continental breakfast is served before arrival.

Travelers can upgrade to a First Class room for extra comfort and privacy. Accommodation options include a Roomette with two seats that convert into beds, or a Bedroom with twice the space of a Roomette, an in-room sink, restroom, and shower. First Class customers receive priority boarding, a dedicated attendant, and complimentary meals onboard.

This offer is valid for sale from May 21, 2024, through July 31, 2024, and for travel from May 24 to September 2, 2024. The discount is available for travel between Lorton, Va., and Sanford, Fla. A three-day advance purchase is required.

The Amtrak Auto Train offers daily, non-stop service between Lorton and Sanford, Fla. (near Orlando). Customers can travel with various types of vehicles, including cars, vans, SUVs, and motorcycles. This train eliminates nearly 900 miles of driving between the Northeast and Florida.

Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation: Mason Neck State Park will host the 26th Annual Eagle Festival on May 11 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Park staff along with many exhibitors will be on the visitor center lawn for a full day of animal shows, hands-on activities, and outdoor recreation clinics that aim to highlight the rich natural history of Northern Virginia as well as foster stewardship of our environment.

“Guests will be able to see animals such as hawks and owls up close as well as learn about the majestic bald eagles, with the hopes of seeing one in flight during the event,” said Mason Neck State Park Chief Ranger Jamie Leeuwrik,

Parking for the event this year will be located offsite at Pohick Bay Regional Park at the Pirate’s Cove Waterpark. Shuttles will be provided to and from the festival at Mason Neck State Park and will run about every 15-20 minutes from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

The family-friendly event is free and will include a variety of food vendors, musical performances, and a puppet show.

“Caroline Seitz, the star of Kids Nature Shows, puts on such a fun and interactive show for kids and adults to experience the animals they might see at the park,” said Leeuwrik. “There will be a musical performance at 11 a.m. and another at 1:45 p.m. Eagle Festival is a great way to bring together the local community for programs and activities all in the name of conservation and preservation.”

Almost 60 years ago, Elizabeth Hartwell led a successful grassroots effort to preserve more than 5,000 acres of wetland habitats on the Mason Neck Peninsula in Fairfax County. Today her legacy lives on – especially through the annual Eagle Festival at Mason Neck State Park.

This event celebrates the decades of conservation work that has taken place on the Mason Neck Peninsula. Had it not been for the work done by individuals like Hartwell, nicknamed “The Eagle Lady” and for whom the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is named, the area would look drastically different than it does today.

Greetings, Prince William – Educate America, Inc, a nonprofit startup, is seeking volunteers ages 18+ to assist with providing after-school tutoring and mentoring services within five (5) to ten (10) Prince William County Public Schools during the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 school year. Volunteer with Educate America and make a difference in the lives of underserved youth! Your time and expertise can positively impact the academic success and personal development of our youth—contributing to brighter futures for the next generation. Volunteers will need to have background and CPS checks completed by July 15, 2024. Please join them as a volunteer, tutor, mentor, or community partner by completing and submitting the online application form(s) at educateusainc.org/now-recruiting. Questions? Please email educat…@gmail.com.

• Just In: Is a safe community important to you? The PWC Office of Community Safety is hosting an open house, “Fostering a Safe PWC Together” on May 11, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building, 15941 Donald Curtis Drive in Woodbridge. Volunteers age 16+ are needed to assist with set-up/clean-up, greeting attendees and directing traffic. You’ll feel great as you support this event which provides the public with safety resources from county government agencies, nonprofits, faith-based, community-based and charitable organizations! Please email mblo…@pwcgov.org to sign up and learn more. Note: This event is free to the public, please visit https://bit.ly/3y1B6JU for more information.
• Do you love going fishing? Brain Injury Services (BIS) is searching for a volunteer to be a PALS (Providing a Link for Survivors) for a brain injury client living in Prince William who would like to go on occasional fishing trips. PALS is a one-to-one friendship program for brain injury survivors; the program connects BIS clients with volunteers who can help them socialize in the community and rebuild social skills through friendship. You’ll feel great as you enjoy a day at your favorite fishing hole while helping a client get their life back on track following such a traumatic occurrence! Please visit braininjurysvcs.org/volunteer/ for more information, email mth…@braininjurysvcs.org to learn how you can help.
• CRi (Choice. Respect. independence) is a community-based nonprofit organization with a focus on providing personalized resources to people with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. They are currently in need of an American Sign Language (ASL) volunteer age 18+ to service the public at CRi events. This volunteer will communicate with individuals who are hearing impaired and in need of socialization with those who speak ASL. Strong skills in ASL are necessary and you’ll feel great as you share your specialized talent to help someone communicate with the public! Please email volu…@mycri.org to learn more.
• The year is speeding by, and Girls on the Run of NOVA is already preparing for their 5K Celebration being held May 18 (Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax) and May 19 (Pentagon City, Arlington)! Over 100 volunteers age 13+ are needed for all sorts of jobs like Greeters, Water Stations, Cheerleaders and more. It sounds like it will be a fantastic event and you’ll feel great as you support and encourage these youth who have been working hard to build up their fitness and confidence! Please visit https://bit.ly/3TCr3lN to sign up or visit gotrnova.org. Hurry, volunteer slots will fill up quickly!
• Here’s a “Honey” of a volunteer opportunity! The Manassas Bee Festival is coming June 22 at Liberia House, 8601 Portner Avenue, Manassas and volunteer “Worker Bees” of all ages are needed to support this fun event. Volunteers under 18 are welcome to volunteer with a responsible adult or group leader. Volunteers are needed June 21 help set up the festival at Liberia House. Then, volunteers will be needed to help with the 2K Honey Hike 8:45 a.m. on June 22 at Manassas Museum lawn and also to help on shifts during the festival on June 22. Jobs include assisting with set up, helping vendors unload, helping at the welcome tent to show the map or answer basic questions. Volunteers who sign up will get a free green t-shirt but should complete the online form at manassasbeefestival.com/contact-donations-questions/. Please be sure to indicate you are a Volunteer on the form. Please email manassasb…@gmail.com for more information.
• Gardeners, here’s a fantastic volunteer opportunity for you! PWC Office of Historic Preservation is looking for Historic Garden Volunteers to help maintain the garden at Rippon Lodge Historic Site this summer. Help is needed with planting, weeding and harvesting the fruit and vegetables. You’ll enjoy being outdoors as you help the garden illustrate what plants may have been planted by the Ellis family in a Victory garden during World War II! Please call Rippon Lodge at 703-499-9812 for more information.
• St. Thomas United Methodist Church in Manassas needs a volunteer Team Leader for their Food Pantry on Tuesdays and Fridays. Jobs include instructing volunteers on how to sort/store donated food from local grocery stores, organize items for Saturday distributions, train new volunteers and help keep the pantry organized and clean. Training provided; no experience necessary! You’ll feel great as you help this busy food pantry get prepared for their food distributions which serve up to 800 food insecure individuals each week! Please email gary…[email protected] or call 703.368.5161, ext. 122 for more information.
• Mark your calendar! Walk MS: Manassas 2024 will be held May 4 at Harris Pavilion in Manassas, and LOTS of volunteers age 15+ are needed to make this successful! Jobs include Event Set-Up, Volunteer Check-in, Route Marshals, Hydration Stations, and much more! You’ll feel great as you get involved with this community walk whose goal is to end Multiple Sclerosis (MS) forever! Please visit https://bit.ly/4cHgvut and to sign up, email cassie…@nmss.org for more information.
• The Workhouse Arts Center (WAC) in Lorton needs volunteers age 16+ to be Volunteer Artist Building Representatives (VABRs). These individuals are the first point of contact for visitors entering the artist buildings on the WAC campus. Volunteers should be friendly, willing to engage with the public and be able to share information about the WAC. Onsite training is required but is offered to accommodate the schedules of volunteers and staff. If you’re an artist or are into art, this could be a wonderful opportunity to get involved with the growing art community! Please visit https://bit.ly/3WfOF2x for more information, email volu…@workhousearts.org to learn more.

-Information submitted by Volunteer Prince William.

 

Workhouse Arts Center: “The Workhouse Arts Center is excited to announce the return of a Northern Virginia Halloween season favorite, the Workhouse Haunt, a scare-inducing outdoor haunted trail.”

“This year’s event, titled Haunt: Game Over, marks the 10th season of the haunted trail at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton. Haunt will run on weekends from Friday, Oct. 6 through Saturday, Oct. 28. A sneak-preview night is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 30, featuring complimentary and discounted tickets for first responders, veterans, active military, teachers, and health-care workers.”

“Haunt will also perform on Halloween night, Tuesday, Oct. 31. Each Friday and Saturday night, live bands will perform in the Rizer Pavilion on the Workhouse campus.”

The campus can be found at 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton.

“Music entertainment is free; no entrance fee is required to attend the performances. Food trucks, soft drinks, beer, wine, and themed-specialty drinks will be available for purchase on site.”

“Tickets for the haunted trail go on sale at noon on Aug. 25, and prices start at $30 per person. Visit www.workhousearts.org for schedule and event details.”

“Guests will travel in small groups for a frightening experience that brings them next to the site’s abandoned, historic buildings where they will encounter characters and sights.”

“The gates open at 6:30 p.m. most evenings, with the first groups dispatched to the Haunted Trail at 7 p.m. Closing time will vary by event night; please see ticketing web page for the complete schedule. Tickets are being sold by a timed-entry basis to allow guests to reserve the time that they would like to experience the haunted trail and to reduce long wait times at the event.”

“Advance online ticket purchase is highly recommended due to the event historically reaching sold-out capacity.”

Haunt: Game Over 2023 Schedule:

• Fridays – Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Saturdays – Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Sundays – Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Tuesday – Halloween, Oct. 31 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

“InsideNoVa is the media sponsor for this year’s Haunt, and tickets for the Haunt Preview Night can be purchased directly from their website.”

“This year Workhouse has partnered again with the Lorton Community Action Center to encourage guests to give back to the community by donating food and other items when they attend the Haunt. A drop off location will be available on the Haunt site.”

StoreBrands: “Lidl is coming to the Northern Virginia community of Lorton with a new store opening scheduled for July 26. The store will be open to shoppers from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday.”

“The store at 9001 White Spruce Way is part of Liberty, a mixed-use community that is transforming the historic Lorton Reformatory into an urban village.”

“At the grand opening event on July 26, the first 100 customers in line before the store opens at 8 a.m. will receive a special gift card ranging from $5 to $100 each. Shoppers can also sample Lidl’s award-winning assortment and take advantage of special giveaways.”

“I am excited to welcome Lidl to Liberty! Not only does it bring a diversity of grocery shopping options to Lorton, but it provides a walkable, bikeable location to many, many residents in the immediate vicinity of the store,” said Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck.

“As an anchor for the rest of the commercial development at Liberty, we are already seeing exciting new options coming and anticipate welcoming Taco Rock and others to the site this fall.”

FFXNow: “A massive fire broke out last night (Monday) at the Rainwater Landfill on Richmond Highway in Lorton, occupying Fairfax County firefighters for hours. As of 9 a.m., the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department remains on scene in the 9900 block of Richmond Highway after units were dispatched to a reported outside fire at 11:03 p.m.”

“The department reported at 5:47 a.m. that the fire had been contained, but smoke was still visible from Route 1 and I-95.”