NORFOLK, Va. — Potomac Local News has been recognized by the Virginia Press Association as the state’s leading online-only news source.
The independent news organization’s photography and writing took home seven first place awards in the VPA’s newly created online-only category at last night’s annual Awards Banquet held at the Marriott Waterside Hotel in Norfolk.
Potomac Local News was recognized for outstanding breaking news, portrait, feature and pictorial photography, feature series writing and government reporting.
In addition, the independent news organization won the overall sweepstakes award in the online-only category, a contest in which the winner is determined by adding up the most points earned by winning first, second, and third place awards. Each first place earns three points, each second place wins two points and each third place earns one point.
This is the first year online-only news organizations were allowed to compete in the Virginia Press Association news and photography contests.
Potomac Local News was founded in 2010 by publisher and long-time area resident Uriah Kiser as an independent news organization dedicated to serving the communities of Prince William and Stafford counties.
The Virginia Press Association was incorporated in 1881 and serves member newspapers from across the state and Washington, D.C., and includes three online-only members: CharlottesvilleTomorrow.org, Fauquier Now, and Potomac Local News.
Our proud winners are…
Mary Davidson
1st Place Breaking News Photo – Found Four Door
After a teenager was shot and killed by a Stafford County Sheriff’s Deputy inside his Fauquier County home, investigators worked feverishly to piece together what led to the shooting, and found the car the teenager had been driving just hours earlier, nearby his home.
1st Place General News Photo – Casket Carry
When long-serving OWL Volunteer Fire Department Chief Richard “Ricky” Arrington passed away, members of his family, his friends, and many dedicated public safety professionals came to the First Baptist Church of Woodbridge to pay their respects.
1st Place Feature Photo – Child Salutes Casket
While paying respects to OWL Volunteer Fire Department Chief Richard “Ricky” Arrington, 10-year-old Benjamin stood next to his father, Micheal Clark, and saluted Arrington’s casket as is past.
1st Place Personality or Portrait Photo – Obama Fist
When the 2012 Presidential Campaign came to Woodbridge on Sept. 21, thousands packed the stands at Richard G. Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge. When President Barack Obama took the podium, he convinced residents it was not the time to change leadership in the White House.
KJ Mushung
1st Place Pictorial Photo – Marine Corps Museum
With wispy clouds overhead and with one of the region’s most iconic structures in the foreground, the Virginia Press Association recognized KJ Mushung’s photo of the National Museum of the Marine Corps as the year’s best in the online-only category.
Uriah Kiser
1st Place Government Writing
In 2012, the Stafford County Board of Supervisors tackled issues like deciding whether or not to begin the process of adding an At-large Supervisor to represent all county residents, formulating a plan for what the future of the county’s courthouse district will look like in the future, and the creation of the county’s first wetlands mitigation bank. Potomac Local News Publisher Uriah Kiser’s reporting was recognized as the year’s best in the online-only category.
KJ Mushung & Uriah Kiser
1st Place Feature Series
Hydrilla, a weed that has overtaken Quantico Bay in Dumfries, has plagued boaters, property owners, and has brought nearly all boat traffic on the once-busy bay – a port that once rivaled New York City – to a halt. Through a series of reports, Virginia Press Association recognized the reporting of KJ Mushung and Uriah Kiser as the year’s best on the online-only category.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
