Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans and their families often qualify for special tax benefits. An IRS news release describes some of the most common deductions and exclusions and tells where to get more information.

After a competitive bid process that attracted 11 bidders, the city’s new general obligation bonds were awarded to PNC Capital Markets at a true interest cost of 2.73%. The $37,342,000 in bonds will be used to build the new Baldwin Elementary School. Repayment of these bonds plus interest will be completed in 2035.

Visitors and Virginians alike are encouraged to experience the fresh wild-caught and farm-raised oysters from Virginia's seven different oyster regions throughout November, as well as participate in the numerous oyster festivals and events around the Commonwealth. Oystering is a $22 million business for the state, up about 25% from 2012.

Prince William County Human Rights Commission is accepting nominations for the Annual Human Rights Award. Individuals, nonprofit organizations or businesses may be nominated by Nov. 23 for outstanding accomplishments in the area of human rights in Prince William County.

Deadly house fires often occur late at night and early morning when people are sleeping, therefore, it is imperative that smoke alarms be properly installed and maintained to protect against injury and the loss of life. Here are the best life-saving smoke alarm tips to keep you and your family safe:

Virginia Department of Corrections Director Harold Clarke has announced this year’s plans to monitor sex offenders under probation and parole supervision throughout the Commonwealth on Halloween night.

The date by which an absentee ballot must be requested for the Nov. 4 election was incorrect in the page 1 story in the Oct. 24 edition of the Manassas Observer. It should be Oct. 28 - NOT Nov. 28. The newspaper regrets the error.

Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 2nd. As you turn your clocks back, Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue reminds residents to change the battery in their smoke alarm. Smoke alarms provide early warning–allowing you time to escape a home fire.