Santa On Skis | Metallica To Judge Bands | Soccer Star: NoVA Good News

VIRGINIA — This week's good news stories in Northern Virginia include a town named one of the most "Christmassy" in the U.S., the return of waterskiing Santa, and a glass vase found at a thrift shop sells at auction for more than $100,000.

Plus, a local soccer star reflects on her legacy, a team of moms raises hundreds of thousands of dollars to renovate a playground, and a local marching band will be judged by the members of the heavy metal band Metallica.

Here are some of this week's good news headlines:

Most 'Christmassy' Towns: NoVA Town Makes Top 5

Between the illuminated trees on King Street and plentiful holiday events, it's no surprise Alexandria is ranked as one of the top Christmas towns in the U.S.

Waterskiing Santa Returns In 2023 With A Splash

It may not be a white Christmas Eve in Alexandria, but it will certainly be a cold one for the Waterskiing Santa team, which will put on its annual show on the waterfront.

Team Of Moms Raises $400K To Renovate Playground

A group of local moms reached their fundraising goal that will help to cover the costs of turning the McLean Central Park playground into a modern space for children of all ages to enjoy.

• Basketball Court Project Gets Funding From Park Authority

$4 Vase Found At VA Goodwill Sells At Auction For $107K

Horse trainer Jessica Vincent got a bit more than she bargained for after purchasing a glass vase for $3.99 at a Virginia thrift shop.

Soccer Star, NoVA Native Ali Krieger Reflects On Legacy

n November, Ali Krieger found the storybook ending for her professional soccer career. The lifelong defender won her first National Women's Soccer League Championship in her final game before retirement.

Metallica To Judge NoVA Marching Band, Other Finalists

Oakton High School's marching bands and others around the U.S. are ready to face the music as Metallica names winners in its national marching band contest.

Holiday Fun

• Holiday Scavenger Hunt Offers Free Family Fun
• Holiday Decorating Contest Nominees Announced For 2023
• Dogma Holds Holiday Toy Event For Adoptable Dogs And Cats

Santa's Mail Box

• Letters To Santa: TyKeitha Wants Santa Skates And Gumball Machine
• Letters To Santa: Siblings Share Best Wishes With Santa
• Letters To Santa: Barbie House, Family Happiness Girl's Wishes

Big Money Winners

• Spotsylvania Man Wins $500K From Virginia Lottery
• Woodbridge Woman Wins $273K From VA Lottery Online
• $125K VA Lottery Win For Chantilly Man With Ticket Bought At Giant

Business Openings

• Boutique Fitness Studio Cut Seven Opens Flagship Location
• Hawaiian Shaved Ice Business Ready To Make Waves
• Panera To Hold Special Promotion For Opening Of New Location

Award Winners

• Difference Makers In Recognized With Star Awards
• County Fair Awards Inaugural $5K Grants To Community Groups

More Good News Stories

• 'Community Of Readers': Public Library's Most Popular Books
• 'One, Two, Tree' Model Chosen For 2024 Art Installation
• Selena Gomez, Record Producer Boyfriend Go Public With Relationship
• Civil Air Patrol Squadron Holds Change Of Command Ceremony

Thanks for reading Patch!