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A brief power outage may be an inconvenience; a prolonged one can threaten food, comfort and essential medical devices. Prince William County’s emergency management guidance offers practical ways to prepare and stay safe.

Before an outage, stock a kit with flashlights, batteries, cash and first aid supplies. Charge devices, plan backup power for medical equipment, freeze water containers to help keep food cold, and locate nearby warming or cooling shelters.

When the lights go out, use flashlights instead of candles, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed, and unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from a surge. A closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about four hours; a full freezer holds its temperature for about 48 hours. Report the outage to Dominion Virginia Power or NOVEC rather than assuming someone else has.

In extreme heat, drink water and seek a cooler place; in cold weather, dress in layers and consider relocating somewhere warm. Never use generators, grills or charcoal-burning devices indoors or near openings, and never run a car in a garage: carbon monoxide is a serious danger.

Afterward, discard food exposed to 40°F or higher for two hours or more, ask a doctor about potentially spoiled medications, and restock supplies. If driving is unavoidable while traffic signals are dark, treat intersections as four-way stops and yield to pedestrians.

After considering community feedback, the City of Manassas and Historic Manassas, Inc. have canceled the final First Friday of 2026 and are turning their attention to fall and winter events in Historic Downtown Manassas.

Families can trick-or-treat at Haunted Happenings on Oct. 24, honor service members at the Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 7, and explore local art at the Fall Gallery Walk on Nov. 14. December brings the Holiday Market and tree lighting, the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade, and the ticketed VRE Santa Train. The city and HMI are also inviting feedback on First Fridays ahead of 2027.

Scam alert for Prince William County: Fraudulent emails are impersonating the Planning Office and Planning Commission, using publicly available information to make the messages look official. Residents and businesses should be especially cautious of emails about application fees or invoices.

Official county email addresses end in @pwcgov.org or @pwcva.gov, and the Planning Office and Planning Commission will never request payment by wire transfer, credit card or ACH. If an email or invoice seems questionable, don’t respond to the payment request. Call the Planning Office directly at (703) 792-7615 to confirm whether it’s legitimate.

America Recycles Month brings hands-on activities and practical waste-disposal advice to Prince William County libraries and recreation centers this November. County staff and Keep Prince William Beautiful volunteers will answer questions and help residents learn what belongs in the recycling bin.

Events begin Nov. 10 at the Sharon Baucom Dale City Recreation Center, followed by stops at Potomac and Montclair libraries, Chinn Park Recreation Center and Bull Run Library. Residents can also take the 2026 “I Recycle” pledge through Nov. 20 for a chance to win prizes—a small commitment with a community-wide purpose.

Looking for a way to give back in Prince William? The volunteer opportunity search lets you narrow listings by organization, county, date, available slots and distance from a ZIP code.

Filters for interests, qualifications and volunteer age can help you find a good fit. You can also look for family-friendly, outdoor, virtual or wheelchair-accessible opportunities—and check whether team registration is available if you’re hoping to volunteer with others.

Opening a checking or savings account? A checklist from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau can help you gather what you need and understand your choices before you sign up.

It also highlights two details worth checking: when money from a deposited check will be available, and how overdraft coverage works. Banks and credit unions set their own check-deposit policies, within federal limits. Overdraft fees may apply to checks, electronic payments or debit cards, but there are steps you can take to reduce or avoid them. Knowing the rules upfront can help you choose an account that fits.

Clean hands can help stop germs from spreading. The CDC says washing with soap and clean, running water helps prevent respiratory and diarrheal infections. Key moments include before preparing or eating food, and after using the toilet, coughing, sneezing, handling animals, or touching garbage.

The routine is simple: wet, lather—including between fingers and under nails—scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry. When soap and water aren’t readily available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.

Benton Middle PTO is inviting school families and community supporters to a Panda Express Spirit Night. It’s a chance to enjoy a meal while helping Benton Middle School.

To make a purchase count, present the event flyer when ordering in person or enter fundraiser code 3860722 when ordering online or through the Panda Express app. Twenty percent of qualifying purchases will benefit the school.

What makes Pilates more than a workout? A Pilates Principles educational workshop at the Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center explores the ideas behind the method, from breathing, concentration and control to balanced muscle development, whole-body movement and relaxation.

Designed for ages 14 and up, the session focuses on how to bring these principles into daily life. Registration is required. The workshop is free for passholders and costs $12 for non-member guests.

What birds are calling in Virginia? At Virginia Bird Calls, Master Naturalist Candice Lowther introduces some of the species that call the state home, then leads a stroll through Veterans Memorial Park to listen for and learn familiar bird calls.

Open to all ages, this $12 program offers a chance to slow down, enjoy the park and get to know its feathered residents by sound.

Could I-95’s reversible Express Lanes someday carry traffic both ways around the clock? VDOT and operator Transurban are studying that possibility along roughly 45 miles between the Springfield area and Spotsylvania County. The preliminary concept calls for three express lanes in each direction north of Prince William Parkway and two in each direction farther south.

The proposal could also change ramp access and help OmniRide buses, which currently benefit only when the lanes run their way. But feasibility has not been determined, and property, traffic and environmental impacts still need study. VDOT plans public meetings in 2027 and 2028, followed by a hearing in 2028.

This Veterans Day, Prince William County is honoring local veterans through One Community, Many Heroes, a temporary outdoor tribute featuring their photos, names and branches of service.

The display will be at Sean T. Connaughton Plaza at the Prince William County Government Center in Woodbridge from Nov. 6–15, 2026. Residents, county employees, veterans and families are invited to visit and reflect on the service of those with ties to the community, especially on Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11.

Prince William County is expanding where distribution and fulfillment operations can locate near Bristoe Station Battlefield Historic Park. The Board of County Supervisors unanimously approved a zoning change October 20 that adds light-industrial parcels southeast of the Bristow Road and Nokesville Road intersection to the county’s E-Commerce Overlay District.

Residents raised concerns about truck traffic, noise, lighting, stormwater and potential effects on the historic park. The vote opens the door to additional warehouse-related activity, but any future development on the newly included land must still undergo county review.

A 10-Minute Walk After Dinner Can Help Lower Blood Sugar

That after-dinner stroll may do more than help you unwind: a short walk after eating can lower your blood sugar. The sooner you get moving, the better.

Endocrinologist Kelly Wood, MD, recommends walking for 10 to 15 minutes after a meal. Blood sugar typically peaks 30 to 90 minutes after eating, and walking while it’s rising lets your muscles absorb glucose before it floods the bloodstream. It’s a simple reason to make room for a brief walk after dinner.

Gift cards are for gifts, not payments. The FTC warns that anyone demanding gift card numbers and PINs to settle a bill, fix a computer, claim a prize, or help a loved one in an emergency is trying to scam you. Real businesses and government agencies won’t ask to be paid this way.

Scammers often create a sense of urgency so you won’t stop to check their story. Slow down, don’t share the card details, and contact someone you trust. If you’ve already sent the numbers, report the scam to the gift card company, ask for your money back, and tell the FTC. Keep the card and receipt to help with your report.

Changes to SNAP and Medicaid can raise questions about eligibility, renewals and coverage. On Thursday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m., Prince William County Department of Social Services staff will discuss those updates in a virtual session, “SNAP & Medicaid Updates You Need to Know.”

Part of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Prince William County Chapter’s Economic Empowerment Series, the session aims to give residents accurate information and help them understand any steps they may need to take as changes are implemented.

Young makers, big ideas: Prince William 4-H Young Entrepreneurs are bringing their homemade products to the Historic Manassas Farmers Market on Saturday, November 7, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Meet the young entrepreneurs, browse their handmade items, and see the business skills they’ve learned in action. It’s their final market day of the 2026 4-H Project—one last chance to shop their work and cheer on the next generation of local business leaders.

Prince William’s Human Rights Student Leadership Council has welcomed its largest cohort yet: 99 students in grades 10–12 from public, private and homeschool programs. At orientation, the council introduced its 11th cohort to the work ahead in the 2026–27 school year.

Under the theme “Leading with Purpose and Passion,” students will explore fair housing, human trafficking, equity and other human rights issues, then put their learning into practice through community service.

County Executive Christopher Shorter and schools Chief Equity Officer Dr. Charmelle Ackins urged students to listen to different perspectives and use their leadership to strengthen their schools and communities—starting now.

Prince William County has adopted Pathways 2035, a master plan to guide future trail connections and investment. Shaped by community input, it maps 291 miles of unbuilt routes for walking and cycling and 118 miles of unbuilt recreational trails, then ranks gaps to help the county focus its efforts.

The plan also takes the county’s first comprehensive look at blueways, or water trails, with Broad Run identified as a starting point for formal planning. Other recommendations address bike routes, trail maintenance and design standards. Adoption sets a direction, but it does not approve construction or funding for individual projects; those decisions will come separately.

An itchy, scaly rash isn’t always psoriasis—even when it resembles the familiar plaques on elbows or knees. Psoriasis can also appear as small spots, pus-filled bumps, or smooth patches in skin folds, and its color can vary with skin tone.

Eczema, ringworm, heat rash, acne, and other conditions can look similar, making self-diagnosis tricky. If a rash keeps returning or won’t go away, a clinician can usually assess it with a physical exam and may use a skin biopsy to rule out other causes.

Groceries that cost $100 five years ago now cost about $123, making the checkout a source of stress for many households. But saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing nutrition.

Start by “shopping” your fridge, freezer and pantry, then build meals around ingredients that need using soon. Track what you throw away—and its cost—to spot avoidable waste. For a faster plan, experts suggest asking an AI chatbot to build a weekly menu and grocery list around your budget, then help compare local deals and coupons.

Halloween meets environmental discovery at Prince William Water’s free Trick or Treatment festival on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the H.L. Mooney Advanced Wastewater Reclamation Facility in Woodbridge.

Families can trick-or-treat with local community and environmental organizations, explore sustainability, and tour a working wastewater facility. Costumes are encouraged, though they’re optional.

Because of construction, attendees must park at Mary G. Porter Traditional School and take a free shuttle to the event. Shuttles begin at 9:45 a.m.; the last ride to the facility leaves at 1:30 p.m., and ADA-compliant shuttles are available.

For some breast cancer survivors, the effects of chemotherapy include peripheral neuropathy, a painful condition that can persist after treatment. A new collaboration between George Mason University and Virginia Commonwealth University aims to better understand this side effect.

Supported by a $200,000 Commonwealth Health Research Board grant, the project brings together Nadine Kabbani of George Mason’s Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Imad Damaj of VCU, and Paula Bos of the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. Their focus is chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy—and a clearer picture of what survivors experience.

Dominion Energy is suing Prince William County after its Board of Supervisors unanimously rejected a permit for a $300 million expansion of the Vint Hill electrical substation. Dominion says the board overstepped its land-use authority and is obstructing a grid upgrade approved by regional operator PJM.

The proposed expansion sits near the Braemar neighborhood, where residents worry about its industrial appearance, noise and use of the greenhouse gas SF6. Supervisors also questioned Dominion’s transparency, while Dominion says growing electricity demand—including from data centers—makes the project necessary. The lawsuit puts a local dispute over development and grid reliability before the courts.

Protein deficiency occurs when someone doesn’t get enough protein, and it can cause symptoms that deserve attention. It mainly affects older adults and people with certain underlying conditions.

For those groups, protein intake may be an important part of the broader health picture. The takeaway is simple: getting too little protein can have consequences, and knowing who is most affected is a useful first step toward recognizing the risk.  More->

Eggs are a protein staple for good reason: one large egg contains about 6.3 grams. But they aren’t the only way to boost your intake.

Five other foods offer significantly more protein per serving, along with compounds that may help fight chronic inflammation and protect cells from damage. If you’re looking to add more protein and anti-inflammatory foods to your plate, these options are worth exploring. More->

The Mediterranean diet may help you live longer and healthier.

The Mediterranean diet is one of the world’s best-known eating patterns, and research consistently supports its health benefits. It emphasizes plant-based foods while limiting ultra-processed foods.

Studies link this way of eating to a longer life and a lower risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, chronic inflammation and other conditions. Its appeal is straightforward: what you eat regularly may make a meaningful difference to your long-term health.

Shopping for health insurance in Virginia? Open enrollment for 2027 Affordable Care Act plans runs from November 1 through January 29. Enroll by December 31 for coverage starting January 1.

The State Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance urges shoppers to compare more than premiums: check benefits, deductibles, doctors, medications and restrictions. Cheaper alternatives may exclude preexisting conditions or lack the protections of ACA-compliant plans.

Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace is the official place to enroll in ACA plans and the only route to financial assistance, including the new Virginia Premium Savings program for eligible consumers. Get plan details in writing, and be wary of unsolicited sales calls or requests for personal information.

Anthropic has filed for a potential IPO that could become the biggest ever, putting the AI company’s ambitions in the spotlight.

But the prospect of a record-breaking debut comes with a stark warning from its own CEO: AI could pose a risk to humanity. The contrast captures a defining tension in the industry, as companies pursue growth while confronting questions about the technology they are building. More->

Anthropic Seeks a Record IPO as Its CEO Warns of AI Risks to Humanity

Anthropic has filed for what could become the biggest initial public offering ever, even as its CEO warns that artificial intelligence may pose a risk to humanity. The pairing puts a striking tension at the center of the company’s next chapter: a potentially record-setting market debut for technology its leader says could carry grave consequences.

The filing points to enormous commercial expectations for AI, while the warning asks a harder question about its future. How should a technology advance when the people building it are also sounding alarms about where it could lead?

Whether Anthropic’s offering ultimately sets a record remains uncertain. But the contrast is clear: as interest in AI reaches toward a historic financial milestone, concerns about its impact on humanity are part of the same story. More->

Men’s health risks go well beyond the annual checkup. Prostate and testicular cancers, heart disease, lung conditions, erectile dysfunction, depression, and unintentional injuries all deserve attention. Some risks are tied to reproductive anatomy; others reflect a mix of lifestyle, behavior, and genetics.

Early detection can make a difference. The American Urological Association recommends discussing prostate cancer screening starting at age 40 and checking the testicles monthly for new lumps, swelling, or tenderness. Regular checkups can also help assess heart health, while speaking openly with a healthcare professional about symptoms—including changes in mood—can be an important first step toward care.

Locked bathrooms at Colgan High School are prompting calls for a Prince William County-wide policy on student restroom access. At an Oct. 21 School Board meeting, parent Janelle Anderson said students encounter locked facilities during passing periods and other parts of the day, sometimes forcing them to miss class to find an open toilet.

Anderson cited records describing a student who bled through her clothing after encountering locked bathrooms and a long line. Fred M. Lynn Middle School student Saul Guzman also criticized restrictions on bathroom passes. The board took no action, though member Lisa A. Zargarpur said she was listening and wanted to hear from principals before writing policy.

A credit freeze or fraud alert can make it harder for an identity thief to open accounts in your name. The FTC explains the difference: a freeze blocks new credit accounts until you lift it, while a fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity first. Both are free, and a freeze won’t affect your credit score.

Anyone can freeze their credit by contacting Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—even before a data breach. If you suspect identity theft, you can place an initial fraud alert through just one bureau; extended alerts are available to people who have reported identity theft. The FTC also covers options for servicemembers and children under 16.

More than one in three children may not be getting enough sleep. In 2020–2021, parents reported insufficient sleep for 35% of children ages 4 months to 14 years, according to the National Survey of Children’s Health. The definition varies by age, from fewer than 12 hours for infants to fewer than 8 hours for 13- and 14-year-olds.

Short sleep is associated with risks including obesity, poor mental health, and attention and behavior problems. Regular bedtimes and limits on screen time can help children build healthier sleep habits. The measure tracks reported sleep duration, not sleep quality or specific sleep problems.

Virginia’s SNAP Healthy initiative aims to help families buy nutritious food and improve long-term health. As of November 1, 2026, SNAP benefits can no longer be used to buy sweetened carbonated beverages in the state, including regular, diet and zero-sugar sodas and carbonated energy drinks.

Milk, juice, lemonade, iced tea and unsweetened seltzer remain eligible, and the change does not affect SNAP eligibility or benefit amounts. SNAP Healthy also partners with Virginia Fresh Match, which doubles SNAP benefits spent on fruits and vegetables at participating locations.

Prince William County is reorganizing its zoning services to make approvals more efficient and consistent. Effective November 2, 2026, Zoning Counter Services will move into the Zoning Administration Division, bringing frontline operations under the Zoning Administrator’s authority.

Ricky O’Connor, acting director of the Department of Development Services, says the change is meant to align responsibility and authority for issuing zoning approvals. For residents, businesses and contractors, the shift should be seamless: public counters, online applications, contact information and processing channels will stay the same, with no service interruptions expected.

Prince William County may revisit stricter noise limits for data centers. Supervisors have revived a proposed ordinance they set aside in favor of a more lenient version. Under the current rules, the county has recorded no data center noise violations, despite receiving more than a dozen complaints.

County staff are expected to present a report on the earlier proposal on Nov. 17. Board Chair Deshundra Jefferson wants supervisors to discuss it then and consider scheduling a public hearing and possible vote. For residents concerned about data center noise, the renewed debate offers another chance to weigh in.

A safe home can change a family’s future. That’s the promise behind Habitat for Humanity Prince William County, winner of the 2026 Prince William Living Giving Back Award. Since 1994, the organization has helped more than 300 local families find decent, affordable housing. Its recent work includes rehabilitating two homes for first-time buyers and completing 13 critical repairs for lower-income homeowners.

The awards also recognize runners-up CFH, which provides housing assistance, food and emergency support, and Pink Space Theory, which opens doors to math, coding and career opportunities for young people. Together, they show how many forms giving back can take across Greater Prince William.

KIDSUNITED plans to open in Lake Ridge on Friday, Nov. 13, bringing soccer classes for children ages 18 months to 9 to 12545 Dillingham Square in Woodbridge. Owner Craig Cromwell says the center is in the final stages of preparation.

The program pairs age-appropriate soccer instruction with coordination, social skills, confidence and teamwork. Classes will run seven days a week, with parents joining the youngest children and older kids participating independently. Cromwell, a former basketball referee, hopes the center becomes a welcoming place where local families can watch their children grow. A free introductory class is also planned.

About one in three people in the United States will develop shingles, a painful disease that can lead to lasting nerve pain. Risk rises with age, but vaccination offers strong protection: the two-dose Shingrix vaccine is over 90% effective at preventing shingles in adults 50 and older with healthy immune systems.

Shingrix is recommended for everyone 50 and older, as well as adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems—even if they’ve had shingles before. Temporary side effects, such as a sore arm or fatigue, usually fade within two to three days. A doctor or pharmacist can help answer questions about vaccination.

Woodbridge renters may have room to negotiate renewals as asking rents dip

Before accepting a lease renewal in Woodbridge, it may be worth checking what similar homes and apartments are renting for now. Realtor.com’s September 2026 market report put the median advertised monthly rent at approximately $2,700, down about 3.57% from the previous month.

That doesn’t mean every landlord is cutting prices—or that every rental is becoming cheaper. But if your renewal offer assumes rents are only going up, current listings could give you useful context before you decide whether to sign.

Supplements can help fill nutritional gaps in your diet.

Where do supplements fit into a healthy diet? Their main role is to add nutrients that may be missing from what you eat each day. Some people take them to help meet a daily nutrient goal, while others use them to address a known vitamin deficiency.

Diet choices can shape those gaps. People following vegetarian, vegan, paleo, or ketogenic diets, for example, may need to pay attention to nutrients such as B vitamins. Supplements can help fill a gap when diet alone isn’t providing enough; many U.S. adults also use them to increase their daily intake of key nutrients.

Manassas is welcoming new businesses across technology, professional services and the skilled trades. Akamai Intelligence, which supports federal agencies with cybersecurity and engineering services, has begun advertising technical roles tied to its new Manassas address. Valeria Insurance is expanding into the city, while Meta Academy has opened career-focused training in HVAC, electrical work, plumbing, automotive mechanics and English.

For local employers, Virginia’s coming paid family and medical leave program is another development to watch: payroll contributions begin in April 2028, with benefits available that December. Entrepreneurs looking for space can also explore a 950-square-foot commercial condo near Historic Downtown.

What began as Jeff Robertson’s over-the-top Halloween yard display in Holly Springs, North Carolina, has become a nationwide tradition. After his skeletons drew crowds in 2020, his family turned the attention toward St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—and Skeletons for St. Jude was born.

This year, 625 households are set to join the haunt, which runs through December 25. From a display packed with animatronics in Michigan to skeleton-filled lawns in Maryland, home decorators are inviting neighbors to give. The effort has raised more than $1.1 million so far, with participants now aiming for $2 million—all while giving their spooky setups a bigger purpose.

PWCS turns sustainability goals into everyday action during Energy Action Month.

At Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), sustainability is moving beyond a promise and into everyday practice. During Energy Action Month, the school division is spotlighting how students and staff are working to lessen their environmental impact while making sustainability part of learning.

That work spans energy-efficient schools, efforts to reduce waste, and environmental initiatives led by students. Together, these efforts show how changes across school buildings and classrooms can support a broader commitment to using resources more thoughtfully.

The focus isn’t just on what schools can save or reduce; it’s also on what students can discover by taking part. Hands-on opportunities give young people a way to connect environmental ideas with action, while staff and students alike help carry the work forward.

PWCS’s Energy Action Month spotlight offers a look at a school division turning its sustainability goals into practical steps, with its school communities at the heart of the progress.

Halloween 2026 is on the menu at Cakes by Happy Eatery. Victoria Wu recently joined Elaine Espinola on WUSA9’s Great Day Washington and Steve Chenevey and Mikea Turner on Fox 5’s Good Day to talk about treats and decor for the holiday.

Her TV visits offer a little inspiration for anyone starting to think about how to make Halloween feel festive, from what to serve to how to set the scene.

Protecting your identity starts with your paperwork. The Federal Trade Commission recommends keeping bank statements, pay stubs, and routine bills for a year; tax records for at least three years, sometimes longer; and property titles, loan documents, and major appliance warranties for as long as you own the item.

Lock up vital records such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, passports, and wills. When you no longer need documents containing personal or financial information, shred them rather than tossing them in the trash. If you rely on electronic copies, consider shredding the paper versions, too.

As holiday shopping approaches, more households will receive packages from online retailers—and scammers are taking advantage. A common scam begins with a text claiming a package can’t be delivered because the address is wrong or a delivery fee is unpaid.

The message asks recipients to follow a link to update their information or make a small payment. But the link may lead to a fraudulent website designed to collect credit card numbers, passwords, and other sensitive details. What looks like a routine delivery alert could be an attempt to steal personal information.

Regaining weight after a restrictive diet can be frustrating, but it does not mean you lack discipline. A plan that clashes with your appetite, schedule or favorite foods is hard to keep following.

A Mediterranean-style approach offers a flexible starting point: vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, protein and olive oil, with room for meals out and foods you enjoy. It is less about following a fixed menu than building satisfying meals you can make regularly.

That might mean yogurt and fruit for breakfast, or eggs and toast; fish for dinner, or beans if you prefer. The useful plan is the one that fits your life well enough to last.

Airbnb Sets New Limits on Checkout Chores

Airbnb is setting new limits on checkout chores, restricting requests that take guests substantial time or effort. For Virginia travelers booking a vacation rental, the change could make departure day less of a to-do list.

The policy draws a line between reasonable checkout requests and more demanding tasks, though the available details don’t specify which chores are affected. It’s a shift worth noting before the next stay.

Nighttime work on I-95 leads this week’s Fredericksburg-area traffic alert, with lane closures for bridge cleaning, soil sampling and paving. Near Spotsylvania’s exit 126, the Route 1 on-ramp will close Sunday through Thursday nights, while the northbound exit 126B off-ramp to Route 1 southbound will close Wednesday and Thursday nights.

Beyond the interstate, drivers can expect temporary turn restrictions during Route 1 intersection work in Fredericksburg and alternating traffic for an inspection of the Norris Bridge over the Rappahannock River. Longer-running projects remain in place, including the Route 17 bridge replacement at Dragon Run and the closure of Kamps Mill Road in Lancaster County.

A high electric bill can be frustrating, but small changes may help. Dominion Energy’s guide points Virginia customers toward ways to use less energy and manage monthly costs, from everyday habits to programs designed to reward savings.

Customers can earn Peak Time Rebates by shifting electricity use during periods of high demand, find discounts on products such as spray foam and air filters, or complete a virtual energy audit. The audit provides personalized recommendations and a free kit of energy-efficient products. For anyone wondering why their bill is high, the guide also highlights heating and cooling costs as a place to start.

Hours at a screen can leave eyes dry, blurry and tired, sometimes with a headache to match. The 20-20-20 rule offers a simple way to build breaks into the day: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Endorsed by the American Optometric Association and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the rule encourages frequent refocusing and blinking. The distance needn’t be exact—a tree or building across the street will do.

A reminder can help make the habit stick. Artificial tears, lower screen brightness and regular eye checkups are other ways to address screen-related discomfort.

The Mediterranean diet is known for its emphasis on plant-based foods and its limits on ultra-processed foods. Research has linked this eating pattern to a longer life and lower risks of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic inflammation.

Now, researchers in England have observed another possible benefit: lower rates of depression among people whose diets more closely resemble the Mediterranean pattern. Their study began before the COVID-19 pandemic and continued into its first year, giving them a chance to examine the connection during an unusually challenging period. The findings add a mental-health angle to an already well-studied way of eating.

Few eating patterns have attracted as much attention as the Mediterranean diet, and its reputation rests on more than popularity. Research consistently supports its benefits: an emphasis on plant-based foods and limits on ultra-processed foods are linked to better long-term health and a longer life.

That connection spans several major health concerns. The Mediterranean diet has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes, as well as chronic inflammation and other conditions. Its appeal lies not in one standout ingredient, but in an overall pattern of eating that research has repeatedly connected with healthier outcomes.

No way of eating comes with a guarantee against illness. Still, the Mediterranean diet stands out for the range of benefits supported by research—and for the straightforward choices at its heart. It’s a reminder that the foods we eat regularly can matter for both how well we live and how long we live.  Get your free guide->

Where can you find omega-3s? Fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, sardines, and anchovies are standout sources of EPA and DHA, omega-3 fats linked to heart and brain health. Oysters, herring, and cod liver oil also make the list, though cod liver oil calls for care because too much vitamin A can be harmful.

For plant-based options, try ground flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, or soybeans. They provide ALA, an omega-3 the body converts to EPA and DHA only inefficiently. If omega-3-rich foods rarely make it onto your plate, a healthcare professional can help you decide whether a supplement makes sense.

A rising PSA after prostate cancer surgery or radiation can signal a recurrence even when conventional scans show nothing. New PSMA scans can reveal tiny cancer deposits sooner—but finding them doesn’t always mean treatment must begin immediately.

Harvard-affiliated oncologist Dr. David Einstein says some PSMA-detected lesions may grow slowly or not at all, while hormonal therapies can bring significant side effects. There’s no evidence yet that treating biochemical recurrence improves survival. Decisions about monitoring or treatment should weigh how quickly PSA is rising, the cancer’s earlier aggressiveness, overall health, scan findings, and the patient’s priorities. Researchers are studying how these newly detectable recurrences behave over time.

A once-daily pill for Parkinson’s disease has won FDA approval after decades of research at the University of Virginia. The drug, tavapadon, will be sold as Juvmo by AbbVie and could give patients another way to manage movement symptoms, including alongside the long-standing treatment levodopa.

UVA scientist Richard B. Mailman pioneered the approach of targeting D1 dopamine receptors, while neurologist Xuemei Huang helped design an early successful clinical trial. Earlier drugs aimed at those receptors had to be injected. Juvmo does not stop the disease, but researchers hope it can provide lasting symptom relief for patients whose current treatments fall short.

A $400 Craigslist haul of more than 2,000 books helped Ben Pagel buy an engagement ring—and launched a bookselling career. After years of selling collectible titles online, he has opened Buzz Bookstore in Occoquan’s oldest building, which dates to 1750.

The shop offers rare and vintage finds chosen one by one, from a specially bound Dracula to a 1930s edition of Pride and Prejudice. Open on weekends for now, Buzz gives browsers a chance to discover a book that feels like it was waiting just for them.

A grocery run can be a money lesson hiding in plain sight. Children see what goes into the cart, but they may not see the budget and trade-offs behind each choice.

Start by making the shopping list together and explaining how it helps leave room for other expenses. At the store, talk through price comparisons, sales, and requests for treats that weren’t on the list. At checkout, estimate the total aloud and explain that paying by card still means spending money.

Thinking out loud turns everyday decisions into a chance for kids to understand how money works—and why sometimes the answer is “not today.”

Prince William County schools have announced their high school graduation schedule, giving students and families a head start on planning for commencement.

Graduation season is still a few months away, but the early announcement gives everyone time to prepare.

Botox isn’t just cosmetic. The prescription drug is used to help prevent episodes of chronic migraine and treat conditions including neck spasms, severe armpit sweating, muscle spasticity and certain bladder problems. It works by blocking nerve signals that trigger symptoms, with injections given by a healthcare professional at sites that depend on the condition.

Effects may begin within days, though improvement can take weeks. Side effects vary by treatment and can include injection-site pain or urinary tract infections. Botox also carries a serious warning: its effects can spread beyond the injection area, potentially causing trouble swallowing or breathing. A clinician can help weigh the benefits and risks.

Rising grocery prices make every item in the cart count. Meal planning can help: map out the week’s meals and snacks, check the pantry, fridge, and freezer before shopping, then build a list around what you already have and what your budget allows.

The savings don’t stop at checkout. Store groceries promptly, keep older items up front, and prep ingredients or meals ahead when you can. Leftovers can become tomorrow’s lunch instead of another purchase. Shared by GreenPath Financial Wellness, these practical steps offer a way to waste less, spend less, and make weeknight cooking a little easier.

Nearly 1,000 candles will light a walkway at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park on Saturday, October 17, in tribute to soldiers who died in the Civil War’s Battle of Bristoe Station.

Hosted by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation, the annual Bristoe Station Luminary offers a chance to visit the battlefield after dark and reflect on its history. The free event runs from 7 to 9 p.m. at 10501 Tenth Alabama Way in Bristow.

Northern Virginia teens build a navigation app for safer walks to school.

Three Northern Virginia high school seniors have built a navigation app with a different priority: helping people walk safely, rather than guiding vehicles. Their custom mapping tool focuses on pedestrian travel through neighborhoods and school zones.

Local school districts and walking groups are beginning to adopt the technology to support student safety. What started with three students could soon help more young people navigate the everyday walk to school.

From classrooms to clean energy, Governor Abigail Spanberger’s early October announcements span a busy agenda for Virginia. Her administration released a new energy plan, made more than $67 million available for home efficiency projects, and announced over $26 million in new school investments alongside updated performance results.

Economic development brought a major headline: M.C. Dean plans a $412.5 million expansion in Caroline County expected to create 1,950 jobs. Spanberger also announced community development grants, celebrated Virginia’s top-ranked workforce training program and affirmed AAA bond ratings, while urging federal officials to preserve protections for nearly 400,000 acres of national forest.

Last chance to weigh in on the PWCS 2027–28 school calendar before the October 16 deadline.

It’s the last chance to weigh in on the PWCS 2027–28 school calendar. Families can review three proposed options and share their preferences before the calendar survey closes Friday, October 16.

The School Board will consider the calendar later this year. For families who want a say in the school-year schedule, now is the time to look over the options and respond.

In Prince William County, Virginia, police are testing a new approach to emergency response: a pilot program that could send drones into the air before officers reach the scene. Police Chief Peter Newsham says the department has begun the program and expects to test it over the next few months.

Newsham also highlighted upcoming community events, including an expired-drug take-back event and the department’s Trunk or Treat celebration. Trunk or Treat is set for October 28, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., in the Macy’s parking lot at Manassas Mall.

Virginia homebuyers are backing out of deals as the housing market cools. A Redfin report found that 13.9 percent of purchase contracts in the Virginia Beach metro area were canceled in September, compared with 12.8 percent in the Washington, DC, metro area. Pending sales also fell in both markets from a year earlier.

More homes are available, giving buyers room to negotiate on price, repairs and closing costs. But mortgage rates and high prices are keeping many would-be buyers on the sidelines. For sellers, Redfin’s advice is to price realistically and be flexible with buyers who are ready to move.

Finding your way around James Long Park just got easier. All three trailheads now have kiosks with full-size trail maps, thanks to a yearlong project by Eagle Scout Chris Sheeran.

Sheeran handled the design, approval, construction and installation of the kiosks across the park’s trail system. Prince William County Parks & Recreation announced the project Tuesday, when parks staff added the maps. Visitors can now check their route before heading out on the trails.

The U.S. Department of Energy has warned of elevated blackout risks across the Mid-Atlantic this week, citing high electricity demand, autumn generator maintenance and planned transmission outages. Its emergency order aims to keep more power available through October 16.

The order directs PJM Interconnection, which serves Northern Virginia communities including Manassas, Woodbridge and Fredericksburg, to dispatch specified generators and allow backup generation as a last resort before or during an Energy Emergency Alert. Issued after a request from PJM, the order is a precaution to help keep electricity reliable while the grid faces added strain.

Feeling bloated or gassy from time to time is common. But if digestive symptoms are ongoing or you’re concerned they could be related to a chronic gastrointestinal condition, speak with a doctor rather than brushing them aside.

You’ve worked out what bills are coming, decided how much to save, and even made a plan for the weekend. Then your phone lights up: “Hey, we’re all going out Friday. You coming?”

Suddenly, a casual invitation feels like more than a casual decision. It’s the familiar moment when the pull of a night out meets the budget you’ve worked hard to keep—and when answering one short message means reconsidering a carefully made plan.

More Prince William County public schools have earned Virginia’s highest performance rating, according to new reporting from Woodbridge Patch. The number receiving the state’s top designation reportedly doubled compared with 2025.

It’s a notable improvement in the district’s ratings, with more local schools now in Virginia’s highest-rated category.

Free Local Medicare Counseling Available for Open Enrollment

Medicare Open Enrollment begins Thursday, Oct. 15, and runs through Dec. 7. If you’re reviewing your coverage for 2027, free local help is available.

The Prince William Area Agency on Aging’s Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) offers free Medicare counseling to help beneficiaries review their plans. Contact Rosemari Walker at 703-792-4156 for assistance.

Veterans Can Get Free Legal Documents at an Oct. 17 Clinic

Local veterans may be able to get essential legal documents prepared at no cost through the county’s Wills for Vets clinic. The event runs Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Prince William Senior Center in Woodbridge.

Honorably discharged veterans living in Prince William County, Manassas or Manassas Park can have wills, powers of attorney and medical directives drafted for themselves, a spouse or a caregiver. Space is limited to the first 100 sign-ups. Because the posted questionnaire deadline has passed, call 571-242-8010 or 703-792-4583 to ask whether spots remain.

Keeping school buses fueled is costing some Northern Virginia school districts more than they planned. After months of changing gas prices, districts are spending thousands of dollars beyond their diesel-fuel budgets.

The issue is not a new route or a one-time purchase: it is the changing price of the fuel buses need to run. When that price rises above what a district expected, the difference adds up across its bus fleet, turning an everyday operating expense into a budget pressure.

For school districts, transportation costs must be planned in advance, while fuel prices can change long after those plans are made. The result in Northern Virginia is a widening gap between what some districts expected to pay for diesel and what they are actually spending.

That gap is already measured in thousands of dollars. The available details do not say which districts face the largest overruns or how they will cover them, but they make the immediate challenge clear: buses still need fuel, even when its cost exceeds the budget.

It is a reminder that price changes felt at the pump can reach beyond individual drivers. For the Northern Virginia districts facing higher diesel bills, months of shifting prices have made the routine job of fueling school buses more expensive than anticipated.

Make Room for Savings in Your October Plan.

October is here, and before bills, errands, plans, and everyday spending take over, it’s a good time to decide what you want your money to accomplish this month. You don’t need a complete financial overhaul—just a plan.

Picture two people who each want to save $100. One plans to save whatever is left at the end of October. The other sets money aside throughout the month, before discretionary spending gets to it. They have the same goal, but only one gives saving a place in the plan from the start.

How snowy and cold will winter be in Virginia? An early outlook points to a powerful El Niño as a possible influence on the season, with predictions favoring warmer temperatures and wetter conditions.

That combination leaves the question of snowfall open. Wetter weather does not necessarily mean more snow, particularly if temperatures lean warm. For now, the outlook offers a broad picture of winter rather than a firm answer about how much snow Virginia might see.

The distinction matters because “warmer and wetter” can sound like two different forecasts at once. More moisture could make for an eventful season, but the early predictions do not say whether it will arrive as rain or snow. Nor does a warmer overall outlook settle what conditions will be like on any given winter day.

For Virginians wondering whether to expect a snowy season or a milder one, the clearest takeaway is also the most tentative: El Niño could help shape a winter that trends warm and wet. Exactly how snowy or cold it becomes remains to be seen.

Late-night drinks may look different with age, but one childhood favorite deserves another look: a warm cup of milk. Dietitian Danielle VenHuizen says milk isn’t just for kids—it’s a rich source of nutrition for adults, too.

As a soothing bedtime ritual, it may offer more than comfort. If you’re thinking about healthy aging, milk could be a simple way to end the day while supporting your nutritional needs—and perhaps a better night’s sleep.

The Mediterranean diet is one of the world’s best-known eating patterns, and its reputation is backed by a consistent body of research. Built around plant-based foods while limiting ultra-processed foods, it offers a simple way to think about everyday eating and long-term health.

Research links this pattern to a longer life and a lower risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic inflammation, among other conditions. That breadth of potential benefits helps explain why the Mediterranean diet remains a focus of interest: its appeal goes beyond any one health outcome.

The central idea is straightforward. Rather than focusing on a single food, the Mediterranean diet emphasizes an overall pattern—more plant-based foods and fewer ultra-processed ones. The research suggests that those choices, sustained over time, can make a meaningful difference to health and longevity.

FDA inspectors have detected cyclospora at a farm in Guanajuato, Mexico, linked to the largest U.S. foodborne outbreak of the parasite on record. The outbreak, tied to lettuce from Taylor Farms’ operation, sickened nearly 13,000 people across the country before officials declared it over last month.

Inspectors found the microscopic parasite in a wastewater tank and a drainage ditch used for lettuce cultivation. The findings strengthen the link to the site, the FDA says, but leave the central question unanswered: how did the parasite get into the lettuce? The agency has closed its investigation without establishing a route of contamination.

The inspection came more than six weeks after FDA investigators were sent to the farm, their first visit there in over seven years. Taylor Farms says the contamination identified by the FDA was associated with an independent grower no longer in its supplier program. The company says its central Mexico facility remains closed while it works on stronger safety measures from field to facility.

The findings follow a more complicated testing history. In August, Mexican regulators said they had not found cyclospora in lettuce or water at the facility; days earlier, the FDA had retracted a faulty positive result from lettuce sampled at the border. Cyclospora spreads through human feces and can cause watery diarrhea, but how it reached enough food to sicken so many people remains unclear.

October 1 brings a wave of new laws across D.C., Maryland and Virginia, touching grocery bills, criminal records, health coverage, time off and the cost of keeping a pet.

In Maryland, grocery stores and delivery services can no longer use shoppers’ data to set individualized prices, and grocery prices must stay fixed for at least one business day. Other changes prohibit ICE agents and other law enforcement officers from wearing masks, extend protective orders for domestic abuse victims from seven to 14 days, and limit how rap lyrics can be used as evidence in criminal cases. The Justice Department has sued over the mask restriction.

Virginia is expanding its “clean slate” laws, allowing certain misdemeanor records to be automatically sealed after a set period. The state is also tightening full-benefit Medicaid eligibility for some noncitizen adults, while leaving the rules unchanged for pregnant and postpartum people and noncitizen children. Tobacco retailers will face regular unannounced checks aimed at preventing sales to people under 21.

In D.C., guaranteed family leave falls from 12 weeks to six, medical leave drops from 12 to 10 weeks, and the maximum weekly benefit decreases. Parental and prenatal leave stay the same. Renters will also see limits on pet rent, while landlords can no longer ban common household pets based on breed, size or weight.

That IRS Letter May Be About Free Retirement Money, Not a Bill

An IRS envelope can look alarming, but one recent mailing may bring news about free retirement money. Notice CP321J is an early heads-up about the Saver’s Match, a new federal benefit—not a bill, audit or penalty.

That makes this letter worth a closer look rather than a quick trip to the recycling bin. For anyone who has received a notice from the IRS, the first step is simply to check what it says: it may be about a retirement benefit, not money owed.

For 19 entrepreneurs in Prince William County, a major milestone is official: their businesses have been authorized to open through the county’s Small Business Project Management Program. The news marks a step for each entrepreneur, turning the work of getting ready to open into permission to welcome customers.

Take a Two-Week Head Start on Holiday Savings

Holiday costs can add up quickly. Gifts, travel, food, decorations, and family activities all compete for space in the budget—but the season doesn’t have to become a financial emergency.

Try a two-week challenge: estimate what you’ll realistically spend, decide how much you can safely set aside over the next 14 days, and keep that money separate from everyday spending. Check your progress before the end of October. Even $10 or $20 saved now can mean less to find later.

Reaching for food after a stressful day is familiar to many of us. Emotional eating is common, and finding comfort in food is natural. But when eating becomes the main way to cope with stress, sadness, boredom, or loneliness, the feelings behind it can go unaddressed.

The article offers a gentler way to understand the habit: notice when the urge to eat appears, check in with hunger cues, and get enough food throughout the day. Movement, mindfulness, connection, and self-compassion can offer other ways through difficult moments. If eating leaves you feeling distressed or ashamed, a mental health professional or dietitian can help—no diagnosis required.

AI’s data center boom is meeting a growing obstacle: local opposition. Backlash that has already complicated projects in the U.S. is spreading across Europe and emerging in South Korea, as communities question the power, water and land these facilities require—and what they will get in return.

In Europe, public opposition has affected about $42 billion in planned data center investment through delays and cancellations, according to STL Partners. More than 70 projects were rejected or restricted in the first four months of the year, the European Data Center Monitor found. Scotland has paused approvals for new hyperscale facilities, Denmark has moved to limit their priority for grid access, and Spain has proposed renewable-energy requirements. Europe’s dense populations and high electricity prices could make such disputes especially difficult to resolve.

South Korea faces a similar tension. Its government wants to accelerate AI data center development, but residents near a proposed site in Seoul’s Geumcheon district have pressed to stop construction; local officials have proposed requiring consent from nearby households. For investors, the risk is not just a rejected project: operators can spend heavily before securing permits. The AI buildout continues, but communities are gaining a stronger say in where its infrastructure goes.

How much monthly income do you need to retire comfortably? For many workers, the idea of building a retirement nest egg of $1 million or more feels overwhelming. A seven-figure target can seem so far away that it is hard to know where to begin.

For people approaching retirement, there may be a more manageable way to frame the challenge: start with the income you will need each month to pay your bills. Rather than treating one large savings figure as a “magic number,” focus on the recurring amount your retirement savings will need to provide.

That shift does not make saving effortless. It changes the question from “How do I reach $1 million?” to “How much income will I need each month?” The answer gives you a more practical starting point for thinking about retirement security, grounded in your own expenses rather than an intimidating round number.

A comfortable retirement is still a big goal, but it may be easier to approach in bite-size pieces. Looking at the monthly bills you will need to cover can make the challenge feel less abstract—and help turn a daunting savings target into a clearer income goal.

Five friends vanished in 1996. This October, the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton is inviting visitors into the woods to follow their trail.

Haunt: Dark Encounters returns on Saturday, October 3, for its 13th year, turning dark woodland paths into an immersive Halloween mystery. Guided groups will encounter professional scare actors and unexpected frights as they search for clues to the friends’ disappearance. Rather than a conventional haunted house, this year’s experience leans into the tension of moving through the trees, where every shadow might seem a little too close.

The haunted trail runs Fridays, Saturdays and select Sundays through October 30. Tickets are $39, with discounts available, and the recommended age is 13 and up.

For families who need a different way to experience the Haunt, the Workhouse is also offering a sensory-friendly night on Saturday, October 17, from 6 to 7 p.m. Parents of young people with sensory needs or others requiring accommodations can contact the organizer to reserve a spot. Whether it’s a full-strength scare or a more accommodating visit, the mystery of those five missing friends awaits in the woods.

Refined dining meets neighborhood warmth at Bourbon & Fig in Lake Ridge. Owners Jill and Bassam Medawar have turned decades of hospitality experience into a restaurant that feels both elegant and welcoming, with thoughtful details throughout a space they helped build.

The menu pairs modern American cuisine with Mediterranean influences, from bourbon-glazed short ribs to coconut-poached halibut. Rare bourbons, inventive cocktails and a wide-ranging wine list invite guests to linger. For the Medawars, the goal is simple: give Prince William neighbors a place close to home to celebrate milestones—or make an ordinary evening feel special.

PWCS highlights financial aid, specialty programs, and career education resources for families

PWCS families exploring options for their students have several resources to consider. This week, the district’s superintendent highlighted financial aid and specialty program resources, alongside PWCS’s Career and Technical Education offerings.

The message brings together practical information for families weighing different educational paths, from specialty programs to career-focused learning.

Silver’s Price Surge Could Come With a Tax Surprise

Silver prices have doubled this year, but the headline gain may not tell the whole story for anyone thinking about selling.

A potential tax bill could come as a surprise. It’s a reminder to look beyond the price chart before counting profits: what an investment gains and what you ultimately keep may be two different things.

Why are Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Kentucky called commonwealths while the other states are not? The answer has more to do with the ideals their founders wanted to express than with any special powers of government. In legal and practical terms, a commonwealth is a state like any other.

For Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Virginia, the name reaches back to their beginnings as states. Kentucky followed a different path: It was once part of Virginia, became a state in 1792, and did not adopt the commonwealth designation until its fourth constitution in 1891. Its ties to Virginia likely played a role, as did the influence of Pennsylvania’s constitution, considered among the most democratic of its time.

The distinction is symbolic, not legal. As the Library of Congress explains, the four are commonwealths because the people who drafted their constitutions chose to call them that. The word also appears elsewhere in the United States: Puerto Rico and the Northern Mariana Islands are classified as commonwealths, though they are territories rather than states or independent countries.

Outside the U.S., the term may bring to mind the Commonwealth of Nations, a group of 56 independent countries, many formerly under British rule, that share interests in democratic values and economic cooperation. Canada, Australia, and India are among its members, and King Charles III serves as its symbolic head. The American states’ use of “commonwealth” reflects a similar emphasis on democracy and the common good—but it does not give them a different status from their neighbors.

What if a shopping trip felt less like a race to the checkout and more like a day out? At B-thrifty in Woodbridge, Virginia, the appeal is a different kind of retail experience: a massive secondhand store where browsing can be part of the fun, not just the step before buying something.

Juliet Warren’s look at the store centers on a simple proposition: $40 can go a surprisingly long way. The article suggests that amount is enough to keep a visitor happily occupied for an entire day, turning a modest budget into an invitation to slow down and see what the store has to offer.

That’s the contrast at the heart of the story. While many stores seem designed to get shoppers spending more and moving along quickly, B-thrifty is presented as a place to linger. Its size and secondhand focus make the experience feel less like a routine errand and more like an outing with no need to rush.

For anyone who enjoys the possibility of finding value without setting out to spend a lot, this Woodbridge stop offers an appealing idea: shopping doesn’t have to be expensive or hurried to be worth the trip. Sometimes the pleasure is simply having time to look—and discovering how far a small budget might take you.

Northern Virginia Layoffs Spike 50% Amid Economic Uncertainty

Layoffs in Northern Virginia have surged this summer, rising nearly 50% as hundreds of workers face job losses across the region.

This sharp increase signals growing economic uncertainty for local communities and industries, with businesses of various sizes making tough workforce decisions. Residents and officials alike are keeping a close eye on how these trends may impact the broader job market in the months ahead.

Rising diesel prices are putting Virginia businesses under pressure. Companies that depend on transportation and logistics are seeing operating costs climb, making it harder to protect margins while maintaining service.

The strain reaches beyond the fuel bill: it exposes how quickly shifts in energy markets can affect supply chains. For businesses across the region, the immediate challenge is to adjust to higher costs without compromising day-to-day operations or long-term stability.

Inflation Expectations Hit Three-Month High, Stirring Economic Concerns

Americans are bracing for prices to rise faster, with inflation expectations reaching their highest point in three months.

This shift signals growing concerns about the cost of living and could influence both consumer spending and economic policy in the months ahead.

As people keep a closer eye on grocery bills, gas prices, and rent, these rising expectations reflect wider unease about the future direction of the economy.

Millions of people regularly take calcium and vitamin D supplements, hoping to strengthen their bones and prevent fractures as they age.

But a major new review challenges this common practice, revealing that these supplements may offer little benefit for bone health in most adults. The findings suggest it's time to rethink routine supplementation and focus on other proven ways to protect bones, such as a balanced diet and weight-bearing exercise.

The Prince William Planning Commission has recommended significant changes to the county’s data center policies, including ending by-right approvals for new data centers and reducing the size of the designated data center district.

This move could reshape the landscape for tech development in the area, signaling a more cautious approach to future data center growth. Final decisions now rest with the Board of County Supervisors, who will weigh these recommendations and their impact on the community.

Verizon's plan to phase out traditional copper wire landline service across the state is sparking strong reactions. At a recent town hall, local leaders and a congressman joined residents to voice concerns about the reliability and accessibility of alternative options.

Many worry that discontinuing copper service could leave vulnerable communities without dependable phone connections, especially in emergencies. The pushback highlights the ongoing debate over balancing new technology upgrades with the needs of all residents.

Wonder Debuts Food Hall with 20+ Restaurant Concepts on Worth Avenue This Thursday

Wonder is celebrating the grand opening of its new location on Worth Avenue in Woodbridge this Thursday, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m.

This innovative food spot is set to bring more than 20 restaurant concepts together under one roof, letting you mix and match delicious dishes from a single order.

Don’t miss out on the launch of a unique new culinary destination in the neighborhood!

Prince William County Fire & Rescue is shaping its future plans and looking to the Woodbridge community for valuable input.

Residents are invited to share their thoughts as the department develops its next strategic plan, aiming to better serve local needs and priorities.

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer

Why did the tomato turn red? 

Because it saw the salad dressing!

Q: What school district does Prince William County, VA belong to?

A: Prince William County Public Schools.

Q: How do I pay my property taxes in Prince William County, VA?

A: You can pay your property taxes online, by mail, or in person at the County Government Center.

Q: Is there public transportation available in Prince William County, VA?

A: Yes, the county operates a public bus system called OmniRide, which provides service throughout the area.

Montclair Family Restaurant is your local go-to for hearty, home-cooked meals made with care. For years, they’ve been a beloved gathering spot in Prince William County, noted for their warm service and welcoming family atmosphere.

With an extensive menu spanning hearty breakfasts, slow-roasted rotisserie chicken, daily specials, and indulgent desserts, there’s truly something for everyone. What makes Montclair stand out is their commitment to fresh food at a fair price, ensuring every visit feels like coming home.

Experience comfort, quality, and community at Montclair Family Restaurant—the neighborhood favorite you’ll want to return to again and again.

A proposal to offer Americans $5,000 “dividends” if Republicans hold onto Congress has prompted wary responses from several Virginia lawmakers. Many have questioned both the feasibility and intent of such payments, expressing doubts about how the promise would be funded and whether it’s a realistic commitment.

Some elected officials see the announcement as a political tactic rather than a serious policy plan, warning residents not to bank on receiving these funds. The promise has quickly become a flashpoint in ongoing debates about government spending and pre-election pledges in Virginia and beyond.

Visit the Winery at La Grange in Prince William County for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting and beautiful views...Here