Press Release: Â Potomac Mills is pleased to announce Bunny visits for families as part of the Bunny Photo Experience at Potomac Mills. The Bunny arrives on Friday, March 8, and will be available for visits until Saturday, March 30.
The Bunny Photo Experience will be open seven days a week and hours vary throughout the season. Find the full list of hours here. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Â Make Bunny reservations today by clicking here.
Potomac Mills will also once again host Caring Bunny on Sunday, March 17 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Caring Bunny ® is a private event for children with special needs and their families. Special care is taken to ensure a sensory-friendly environment. Reservations are required. Click here to reserve your spot.
County leadership, library staff, and community members gathered on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, to celebrate the new Mobile Library at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
More in a press release from Prince William County Public Libraries:
A state-of-the-art Mobile Library has been added as the “13th branch” to allow library staff to bring the library to the community. Presenters shared remarks, and then invited attendees to tour the Mobile Library.
“The new Mobile Library will promote literacy and education across the county and the City of Manassas,” said Prince William Board of County Supervisors Chair At-Large Deshundra Jefferson. “It will provide access to books, resources, and programs to residents who may have difficulty visiting our 12 library branches.”
Last year, PWPL created a new division, Community Outreach Services, to visit organizations, community events, and neighborhoods to promote library services and provide library materials. Community Outreach Services also identifies opportunities to partner with community organizations to take library services beyond its brick-and-mortar buildings.
“The library’s Community Outreach Services will also offer unique programs and will be able to attend local events to promote library services,” commented Prince William Library Advisory Board Vice Chair Corinne Doerr. “There are many other unique features of the Mobile Library, including free mobile Wi-Fi so residents can connect to reliable internet at any stop.”
The Mobile Library will make it possible for PWPL to deliver books and other physical materials to local senior centers, youth centers, and residents who cannot visit its libraries. It will also bring programs and access to technology to underserved communities.
Watch the BUZZ video of the ribbon cutting here.
The Mobile Library will begin outreach service in spring 2024. Visit the Online Events Calendar and select Location: Mobile Library to see where it will visit next.
Prince William County is considering significant changes to its early voting ordinance, aiming to enhance accessibility and streamline the process for voters. General Registrar Eric Olsen presented a comprehensive plan to the county Electoral Board, highlighting the current trends in early voting and proposing adjustments to meet the community’s evolving needs.
Olsen noted that while early voting has seen steady participation, it remains relatively flat compared to other methods, such as mail-in voting. “Early voting is kind of flat right now,” Olsen said, indicating that only about 25% of voters opt for early voting, with the majority still preferring Election Day turnout.
In response to this trend, Olsen proposed a “one-two-three” system for early voting, which would allocate specific timeframes for different types of elections. Under this system, satellite voting sites would be operational for one week during Primaries, two weeks for General Elections, and three weeks for Presidential General Elections.
The proposed changes aim to address several key issues. Firstly, there is a plan to expand the number of satellite voting locations to ensure geographic and political balance across the county. The more densely-populated eastern section of the county votes for Democrats while, historically, the west has learned more Republican. This expansion would bring early voting closer to more voters, thereby increasing accessibility. Additionally, Olsen suggested using the same locations for all elections to provide consistency and familiarity to voters.
In the east, those locations have historically been at the Woodbridge DMV on Caton Hill Road and the Ferlazzo Government Building on Route 1.
Explaining the plan’s logistics, Olsen emphasized that each satellite location could handle hundreds of voters daily, significantly increasing the overall capacity for early voting. Furthermore, the proposed schedule includes three weekend days for voting, accommodating those with busy weekday schedules. He did not name the proposed locations.
The timeline for implementing these changes is ambitious, with Olsen aiming to have the new early voting ordinance in place by late spring or summer, in time for the fall presidential election. Despite potential increases in costs during presidential General Elections, Olsen estimated that the overall savings over a four-year cycle would be substantial, thanks to increased efficiency and reduced staffing needs.
One notable aspect of the proposed changes is the inclusion of Sunday voting, which has received unanimous support from the Electoral Board. While Sunday voting is favored for its accessibility, it is suggested to start voting hours later in the day to accommodate voters and election officers.
The Board of County Supervisors must approve the change to the voting ordinance.
If you work at a school or a non-profit organization, you can now post your events to our Community Calendar for free.
Click Here to access the calendar, and click “submit your event” at the top of the calendar to submit your event.
- You can use the drop-down menu at the top of our website to view the calendar and submit your events.
The addition of the events calendar marks a return of the popular feature to Potomac Local News. The events calendar is part of a host of new site improvements that we’ve made since Thanksgiving 2021.
- Since then, we’ve added a cleaner homepage designed for more content discovery.
- A new Community Post feature that allows businesses and non-profit organizations to pay a small fee to post their event on our homepage and in our News Email (18,000+ subscribers).
- And we’ve expanded our reach after joining forces with Local News Now, LLC, publishers of ArlNow.com (Arlington), AlexandriaNow.com (Alexandria), and FFXnow.com (Fairfax).
We hope you enjoy the new calendar. Thank you to our nearly 500 paid members who want 100% early access to our content and our regular readers for your continued support of local news in our communities.
The Prince William County Green Business Council (PWCGBC) is currently inviting submissions for its upcoming Sustainability Awards, which will be held on March 14, 2024.
Businesses and organizations within Prince William County are encouraged to participate by submitting their initiatives and practices that contribute to sustainability and environmental conservation efforts. These awards aim to recognize and celebrate local businesses’ innovative and impactful efforts in promoting sustainability across various sectors.
Submissions are open to businesses of all sizes and industries, including but not limited to manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and technology. The Sustainability Awards will encompass a range of categories, highlighting achievements in areas such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and community engagement.
The PWCGBC is committed to fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and sustainable business practices within the community. By recognizing and rewarding outstanding sustainability initiatives, the organization states that the council aims to inspire other businesses to adopt similar practices and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for Prince William County.
The Prince William County Green Business Council is dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and responsible business practices in the county through education, outreach, and collaboration.
Every Saturday should be Small Business Saturday. Now it is.
Please support small businesses in our communities. Here’s how you can help today.
- “Remnant Farm Kombucha (6620 James Madison Highway, Haymarket) We offer direct delivery to our customers! All you have to do is order online, and we take care of the rest. If you are looking for an alternative craft beverage that tastes amazing but doesn’t make you feel like junk, try Remnant Farm Hard Kombucha.”
- “Wren & Sparrow (807 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg) Wren & Sparrow has everything you need for backyard birding. Five pounds of House Blend (sunflower chips and diced peanuts) for $14.99.”
- “My God Is Apparel, LLC (800 Corporate Drive Suite 301- #571, Stafford) MyGodIs Apparel introduces an innovative collection of uncompromising designs that delivers a combination of comfort and style. From the beginning, we’ve believed in the power of originality—that’s what makes us bold. And we design with this philosophy in mind. Enjoy online shopping only for additional 10% off all clothing.
- Possum-bilities (211 William St, Fredericksburg) Come in and meet an ambassador possum every Saturday from 12-6 pm and shop products from over 80 small businesses under one roof!”
- “Corgi Clay Art Center (15 Tech Parkway Suite 101, Stafford) Our exciting clay art classes are starting this week, and you don’t want to miss out on the fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, our expert instructors will guide you through the fascinating world of clay art.”
- “AubScents Bath & Body (10432 Balls Ford Rd Suite 300 Manassas) AubScents has everything you need for your self-care journey. From Soap bars for your daily cleanse to body scrubs which will remove dead skin and promote smoother skin texture. Our handmade products are safe for the entire family. Use code ‘PLN’ at aubscents.com to save on your first online order.”
Small business owners: Submit a FREE, effective way to get your message to our 28,000 weekly readers here on Small Business Saturdays.
Your submission should be short and sweet; include your business name, address, and link to your website.
Click this link to submit your Small Business Saturdays Notes. Submit by 5 p.m. Wednesday.
“Reckless Handling of a Firearm – On January 12 at 11:03 a.m., officers responded to the Longview Apartments located in the 13700 block of Lynn Street in Woodbridge to investigate a shots fired call. The investigation revealed a resident of the complex, identified as the accused, retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and brandished it towards a maintenance worker who was in the parking lot. The parties eventually separated. At one point, the accused fired multiple rounds into the air before being detained without incident by arriving officers. No injuries or property damage were reported. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Deandrae Ladale SPRADLEY, was arrested. Arrested on January 12: [No Photo Available] Deandrae Ladale SPRADLEY, 46, of 13711 Lynn Street in Woodbridge. Charged with willful discharge of firearm in public place, reckless handling of a firearm, and brandishing. Court Date: Pending | Bond: $3,000 Secured Bond.”
Prince William Police Department: “Commercial Burglary – On January 15 at 8:17 a.m., officers responded to Potomac Mills Mobil Gas located at 14496 Gideon Drive in Woodbridge to investigate a burglary. The investigation revealed sometime between 6:00 p.m. on January 14 and 8:00 a.m. on January 15, entry was forced into the building through a rear bay door and then into the office area and ATM. An undisclosed amount of money and tobacco products were reported missing.”
“Residential Burglary – On January 12 at 1:06 p.m., officers responded to investigate a burglary that was reported to have occurred at a residence located in the 1900 block of Scarlet Pine Road in Dumfries between 3:00 p.m. on January 5 and 7:00 a.m. on January 8. There were no signs of forced entry into the residence. Cabinets were reported missing.”
“Residential Burglary – On January 11 at 11:08 p.m., officers responded to a residence located in the 9700 block of Sunrise Court in Manassas to investigate a burglary. The investigation revealed sometime between 8:30 a.m. on January 10 and 8:00 p.m. on January 11, entry was made into the home through the unsecured front door. An undisclosed amount of money was reported missing.”
“Strangulation | Domestic Related – On January 14 at 11:57 a.m., officers responded to the Riverside Station Apartments located in the 14100 block of Big Crest Lane in Woodbridge to investigate a domestic dispute. The investigation revealed the victim, a 28-year-old woman, and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. During the encounter, the accused grabbed the victim’s neck and struck her before the parties separated. Minor injuries were reported. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Quinton Jaquille THOMAS, was arrested. Arrested on January 14: Quinton Jaquille THOMAS, 33, of 47 Acadia Street in Stafford. Charged with strangulation and domestic assault & battery. Court Date: Pending | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond.”
“Strangulation | Domestic Related – On January 11 at 11:02 p.m., officers responded to The Crossings at Summerland Apartments located in the 13700 block of Keelingwood Close in Woodbridge to investigate a domestic dispute. The investigation revealed, the victim, a 14-year-old male juvenile, and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. During the encounter, the accused struck the victim before grabbing his neck. The parties eventually separated, and the accused fled the apartment. While investigating the incident, the accused returned to the apartment, and was detained without incident. The victim was treated at an area hospital for non-life threatening injuries. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Alvaro Jasmany TOLEDO-GARCIA, was arrested. Arrested on January 11: Alvaro Jasmany TOLEDO-GARCIA, 27, of 3931 Sunny Brook Court in Woodbridge. Charged with strangulation and domestic assault & battery. Court Date: Pending | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond.”
“Assault & Battery on a Corrections Officer – On January 13 at 5:56 p.m., officers responded to the Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center (ADC) located at 9320 Lee Avenue in Manassas to investigate an assault. The investigation revealed a corrections officer was assisting an inmate of the facility, identified as the accused, when the inmate grabbed the officer’s arm and pulled their arm into the cell. The officer was able to separate from the accused and sustained minor injuries to their hand. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Jamal Donniel JAMES, was charged. Charged on January 13: [No Photo Available]
Jamal Donniel JAMES, 34, of no fixed address. Charged with assault and battery on an ADC officer. Court Date: Pending | Status: Remains Incarcerated.”
From Prince William police:
“Animal Cruelty– On Satruday, January 13 at 8:30AM, officers responded to the 1500 block of Cherry Hill Rd. in Dumfries (22026) to investigate a dog that was located with an injury consistent with being struck with a projectile. A resident located the dog suffering from the injury in the area and contacted police. The dog, an American Bully, 1-3 years on age, red/tan and white in color, was transported to an emergency veterinarian.”
“The dog has received medical care and is resting comfortably at this time. PWC Animal Services is seeking assistance from the public on identifying the dog and information about the events leading up to the dog being located this morning. Anyone with information please contact Prince William County Police on their tipline 703-792-7000.”
Every Saturday should be Small Business Saturday. Now it is.
Please support small businesses in our communities. Here’s how you can help today.
- “Remnant Farm Kombucha (6620 James Madison Highway, Haymarket) We offer direct delivery to our customers! All you have to do is order online, and we take care of the rest. If you are looking for an alternative craft beverage that tastes amazing but doesn’t make you feel like junk, try Remnant Farm Hard Kombucha.”
- “Wren & Sparrow (807 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg) Wren & Sparrow has everything you need for backyard birding. Five pounds of House Blend (sunflower chips and diced peanuts) for $14.99.”
- “My God Is Apparel, LLC (800 Corporate Drive Suite 301- #571, Stafford) MyGodIs Apparel introduces an innovative collection of uncompromising designs that delivers a combination of comfort and style. From the beginning, we’ve believed in the power of originality—that’s what makes us bold. And we design with this philosophy in mind. Enjoy online shopping only for additional 10% off all clothing.
- Possum-bilities (211 William St, Fredericksburg) Come in and meet an ambassador possum every Saturday from 12-6 pm and shop products from over 80 small businesses under one roof!”
- “Corgi Clay Art Center (15 Tech Parkway Suite 101, Stafford) Our exciting clay art classes are starting this week, and you don’t want to miss out on the fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, our expert instructors will guide you through the fascinating world of clay art.”
- “AubScents Bath & Body (10432 Balls Ford Rd Suite 300 Manassas) Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer but on a budget. AubScents Bath & Body has all natural bath bombs for $7.25 grab yours today”
Small business owners: Submit a FREE, effective way to get your message to our 28,000 weekly readers here on Small Business Saturdays.
Your submission should be short and sweet; include your business name, address, and link to your website.
Click this link to submit your Small Business Saturdays Notes. Submit by 5 p.m. Wednesday.