It’s that time of year again when we take a look back at the most compelling, most interesting stories we’ve covered this year at PotomacLocal.com. It’s been a big year for local news in our area, from floods, hurricanes, landslides, and even earthquakes. Those events caused by nature are just the tip of the iceberg as we’ve brought you stories about fascinating people who have impacted the community in ways large and small, and for better and for worse.
See our list below of PotomacLocal.com’s most interesting stories of 2011 and then vote for which story you think is the biggest story overall.
Captured East Coast Rapist arrives
In November, Prince William police finally got their man. Aaron Thomas, the man accused in a series of rapes along the east coast since 1997 was extradited from New Haven, Conn. where he was arrested in held since March.
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Recent Stories
Police are investigating after an 18-year-old man was fatally struck by a train early Wednesday morning near Manassas Drive.
Potomac Local News is giving away free tickets to one of the most powerful shows of the summer—Next to Normal at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts—and entering is as simple as filling out a form.
This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rambler in Fauquier County just saw a price reduction and is ready to welcome new owners looking for peaceful country living with modern comforts.
Fireworks will light up the sky over Garrison Park this Sunday as the Town of Dumfries hosts its annual Independence Fireworks Show.
The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Christmas in July
Volunteer Prince William will be holding a fun-filled Christmas in July event at Heritage Brewing Co on July 26th from 12pm until 6pm with all proceeds going to support the 2025 Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket Program. Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
