Writer's flock: Classes, clubs help children to express themselves in print

Vanessa Bittel has been writing since she was 6. Her first story, "Jane is Mad," helped her realize a passion for storytelling. The Stephens City resident now enjoys writing mysteries, especially ones that begin with a death.

Outside the lines: Journal project strikes a chord at James Wood

WINCHESTER -- A group of seniors gathers in an art room at James Wood High School on a recent afternoon to look back on journals they constructed during the last year. They flip through the pages, marveling at ideas they harnessed in moments of brilliance and laughing at the memories shared with friends.

Students create electric cars for fall project

MIDDLETOWN -- For Physics II students at the Mountain Vista Governor's School for Science, Math and Technology, going the distance is a calculated risk.

Family-friendly: New events at Strasburg Theater cater to a younger crowd

STRASBURG -- Mounds of pasta and karaoke on Mondays. Muchos tacos and programs for youths on Tuesdays.

Sky's the limit: Local eighth-graders win chance to attend youth summit

Kai Gingerich and Johnathan Foltz may be just eighth-graders at Peter Muhlenberg Middle School in Woodstock, but they are no strangers to hard work and determination -- especially significant because they are also in the special education program. Both were recently awarded scholarships to attend the Self-determination Youth Summit, which, in conjunction with the 23rd Virginia Transition Forum, was held this past Monday through Wednesday in Norfolk.