Welcoming the New Year at The Plains Community League

New Tutors Join the Team to Support Students

The Plains Community League has kicked off the new year with energy and enthusiasm. After a busy December filled with festive activities, the community is now back to its regular rhythm, supporting local students and welcoming new volunteers. This season brings fresh opportunities for learning, connection, and celebration, reflecting the strong spirit of the community.

Our tutoring program has grown with several new volunteer tutors joining the effort. These volunteers include high school students from Fauquier High School and Kettle Run High School, as well as new adult tutors. The mix of youthful energy and experienced guidance creates a dynamic learning environment.

Students especially enjoy working with the teenage tutors. Their enthusiasm and relatability help make tutoring sessions engaging and effective. This blend of volunteers strengthens the program and ensures that students receive personalized support tailored to their needs.

Holiday Decorations Brightened the John Page Turner House

December was a busy month, highlighted by the festive decoration of The John Page Turner House. Dedicated volunteers from The Plains transformed the historic house with brightly lit trees, Christmas lights, and fresh greenery. A special donation from Lisa Vella, owner of The Baileywyck Antiques, added a large straw horse to the decorations, enhancing the holiday atmosphere.

The house became a focal point of excitement and community pride, welcoming visitors and spreading holiday cheer throughout the neighborhood.

Pilots for Kids Brought Holiday Cheer to Families

In partnership with the Windy Hill Foundation, The Plains Community League hosted Pilots for Kids, an event that brought holiday joy and inspiration to students and their families. Pilots shared stories about flying and answered questions, creating a memorable experience for everyone.

Children enjoyed pizza, cookies, and vegetables while earning their pilot wings, a fun and educational activity that combined celebration with learning. This event strengthened community bonds and offered a unique way to engage children during the holiday season.

Wakefield School Students Helped Prepare Luminaries

Community service is a core value at The Plains Community League, and students from Wakefield School have been active participants. Each month, they dedicate a day to community projects, and in December, they helped prepare over 300 luminaries for the upcoming year.

Their work included carrying the luminaries upstairs at the Town Hall, replacing melted candles from the previous year, and swapping out torn bags for fresh ones. This hands-on involvement teaches responsibility and pride in community traditions while providing valuable support to local events.

Santa and Mrs. Claus Arrived in Style

On December 20th, the holiday spirit reached a peak when Santa and Mrs. Claus (Buster Presgraves and Joyce Heflin) arrived at The Community House in a wagon pulled by Fjord horses from Shenandoah Carriage Company. This free event was open to all. The Fjord horses provided wagon rides through town to visitors. Santa visited with children, and gave each child a wrapped gift, provided by a generous donor. Santa’s Elf helped children with crafts, while Hilt Face Painting offered amazing face painting, and Sugar Cookies by Shannon provided delicious holiday treats. This festive gathering brought joy and warmth, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.

A Special Day for Children

Even when schools closed for the holidays on December 22nd, The Plains Community League remained open to serve the community. Over 35 children participated in a special day filled with fun and generosity.  Community members included Viva Community, local businesses, and friends who donated, collected wrapped and delivered the gifts. Shirin Al-Ansi and Brandi Hanson from A Place To Be brought creativity to life through crafts and facepainting. Angela Hish Killinger and Krister Killinger, who made the magic real as Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Daniela Stephanz Anderson from The Preppy Pretzel, who treated everyone to delicious hot dogs, pretzels, and more. Emily Mason from Emmanuel Episcopal Church, who brought her harp and additional instruments, allowing the kids to experience the power, beauty, and healing of music in a truly special way. Gomer Pyles, who shared his incredible talent and ensured these families will receive beautiful memories captured in photos. Shawn Thomas, a local teacher and author, shared her book "Monday Moves".

This event highlighted the community’s commitment to ensuring that every child experiences happiness and inclusion during the holiday season.

Luminaries Light the Town

Volunteers gathered at the Town Hall to distribute luminaries throughout the town. The luminaries ushered in a peaceful night and bright hopes for the coming new year.

Looking Ahead to a Bright Year

The Plains Community League’s activities demonstrate the power of community involvement and volunteerism. With new tutors joining the team and ongoing support from neighbors, businesses, and organizations, the League is well-positioned to continue making a positive impact.