WASHINGTON, DC – The Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) today elected Prince William County Supervisor Frank J. Principi as its Chairman for 2012. The COG Board is made up of local and state elected officials from the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia and is responsible for the regional body’s overall policy and funding decisions.
Principi was elected to his first term as Woodbridge Supervisor in November 2007 and, in addition to COG, he serves on a number of regional organizations, including the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC), the Virginia Association of Counties (VACO) Community Development Committee, Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC), and the National Capitol Region’s Emergency Preparedness Council (EPC).
Prior to his election as Supervisor, Mr. Principi served as Chairman of the Prince William County Future Commission 2030. This experience prepares him well for one of his priorities as COG Chairman for 2012 – integrating the goals and targets of Region Forward, a planning guide for the metropolitan Washington region, into every aspect of the organization’s work.
Principi commended the outgoing COG Chairman, Prince George’s County Chairman Andrea Harrison on her leadership. “In my year as Chairman, we will continue to build on the work of the past year and keep our momentum going. We will continue to move the region forward,” Principi said.
COG also elected its 2012 Vice Chairs—Phil Mendelson and Karen Young. Mendelson, a previous COG Chairman and President, has served as an At-Large Councilmember for the District of Columbia since 1998. Young is serving her first term as Alderman for the City of Frederick and also serves as President Pro Tem of the Frederick Board of Aldermen.
The “Souper Bowl” returns to Historic Downtown Manassas for First Friday on February 7, 2025, with a sold-out crowd ready to sample soups from top local restaurants. Attendees will explore downtown, tasting a diverse selection of soups—from classic Tomato Basil Bisque to bold Pork Belly Ramen and Cocoa Cloud Dessert Soup—served at various businesses. Participants will vote for their favorite, crowning one soup the ultimate winner. With new contenders and returning favorites, the event promises a flavorful journey. Missed out this year? Stay tuned for next year’s Souper Bowl and more exciting First Friday events in Manassas.
Award-winning brand Always Flavored is relocating across the street from 610 to 619 Caroline St., with plans to open by March 31, 2025. The move allows for an expanded selection of hot sauces, seasonings, and gourmet products, plus tastings and events.
The announcement comes as the brand celebrates recent award wins:
Ritabeata’s Mild Sauce – 2nd place (International Flavor Awards)
Peri Peri Sauce – 3rd place (2025 Scovie Awards)
In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Craig Wade, President of the Prince William Association of Realtors, and Matthew Rathbun, President-Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors. They discuss the latest trends in the local real estate market, the impact of rising interest rates, and the challenges first-time homebuyers face in Northern Virginia.
The conversation also dives into the region’s housing inventory, with insights on the growing demand for homes and the lack of affordable options, especially in areas like Prince William, Fredericksburg, and Stafford. Craig and Matthew share their predictions for 2025, the future of smart growth, and the importance of balancing development with affordability.
Looking for a furry friend who can steal your heart? Look no further than Chloe, the 5-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, waiting for her forever home at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.
Chloe isn’t just any dog—she’s an Italian superstar in livestock protection, with a personality as impressive as her heritage. This lovable lady may have a calm and gentle demeanor, but don’t let her laid-back attitude fool you—she’s a heart-stealer extraordinaire!
Chloe is ready to charm her way into your home, and she’s patiently waiting for someone special to give her the love she deserves. Are you ready to make room for Chloe in your life?
Visit the Prince William County Animal Shelter today to meet Chloe and other wonderful animals available for adoption. For more information or to contact the shelter, visit www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services. Don’t wait—come see Chloe today, and you might just find your new best friend!
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
