On Sat., Feb. 9, Occasionally Cake of Old Town Alexandria is featuring a hands-on Valentine Day Cookie Decorating workshop for all ages at 207 King Street in Old Town Alexandria offered at three sessions, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.  Participants will receive four cookies at the one-hour workshop, a decorating demonstration and a take-home heart cookie box for the decorated cookies. Cost is $25 per person. Reservations are required. Call (703) 647-9638 to register or visit www.occasionallycake.com for more information.

“Valentine’s Day is a time to spend with those closest to your heart, whether it be your family or your sweetheart, we have created a workshop that you can learn from and enjoy,” said Sabrina Campbell, Occasionally Cake owner.

“Hobie (formerly Brinks) is just a darling. He sits, stays, shakes, and has a perfect ‘down,’ when not distracted, of course! He's learning to ‘fetch the paper’ and to ‘wait’ before charging through a doorway. He's playful, curious, very smart, and just a regular love. He loves big dogs, and now that he has his rabies vaccine, he is going to K9 Divine's farm two days a week, which is heaven for him. We also love exploring the woods behind our house and the Archbold Glover Trail. Hobie is now a part time lawyer and loves going to my husband’s law office.

Is Sourwood, Red Maple or Green Ash under your Christmas tree this year? City of Manassas Utilities and Public Works has a gift idea that keeps on giving for years to come----trees. More than 40 tree species have been selected as part of the national Tree Power Program to help beautify the Manassas community, increase home value and improve air quality. Ten dollars will be credited to customers’ utility accounts for each tree that is planted and approved by the Manassas City Horticulturist. For details, go to www.manassascity.org or call 703-257-8276.

The National Tree Power Program is part of a nationwide public power program to help improve the environment and reduce energy costs. Trees help improve air quality, provide shade in the summer and help break the wind in winter. The program is offered all year. Customers can pick up a Tree Power brochure with a validation card attached and a full list of approved trees.