I left Manassas almost twenty years ago and when I came back in 1997, this city had grown so much that I had to call my sister to come and get me when my son and I arrived. I didn't recognize anything and was completely lost.

Still after being here over a year, I find little stores that I remember, hidden behind the large businesses that have moved in. Useful Things is dedicating this website to putting the spotlight on the small area businesses that seem to be left behind. While Manassas is growing every year and the large corporations move in, the small business owners are existing in the strip malls and outskirts of town. Sometimes all but hidden behind large new developments, businesses, and busy highways, where no one seems to have time to notice.