A new Chick-fil-A restaurant will open in Haymarket next week. That means hundreds are expected to pack the eatery’s parking lot for a chance to win free food for a year.Â
Here’s more in a press release:Â
Local franchise owner Jason Ward will open Haymarket’s first stand-alone  Chick-fil-A restaurant on Aug. 4, bringing 80 new jobs, a chance for 100 adults to win free Chick-fil-A meals for a year and the opportunity for the community to donate children’s books to benefit Prince William County Schools.
             The family-friendly overnight First 100 party is expected to pop up in the restaurant parking lot at 15250 Washington St., 24 hours before the grand opening as guests try to be one of the first 100 adults through the door to win a year of free Chick-fil-A meals. This community event is open to guests residing in specific zip codes surrounding the restaurant. A complete listing of eligible zip codes and rules can be found at www.chick-fil-a.com/Locations/
Openings. The Chick-fil-A First 100
             A tradition going back more than 12 years, Chick-fil-A’s First 100 celebration has given away nearly $27 million in free food through 2015 and continues to be the chain’s signature grand opening event. Rain, snow and extreme temperatures below zero or above 100 do not deter fans who arrive with tents, chairs, TVs, computers and other gear.
             Each fan is hoping to win a digital offer card loaded with a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A meals (52 meals with each consisting of a Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, medium Waffle Potato Fries and a medium beverage) that will be awarded to the first 100 eligible adults — ages 18 and older with identification — in line when the doors open at 6 a.m. on Aug. 4. If more than 100 people are onsite when the line officially opens at 6 a.m. on Aug. 3, a drawing will be held to select the First 100. Those chosen will be required to camp out until the grand opening in order to secure their spot.
             “My team members and I can’t wait to welcome our guests,” said Ward. “We’re not just in the chicken business — we’re in the people business. Our goal is to provide a remarkable experience for every customer, every time, by serving food our guests can truly feel good about eating, providing sincere hospitality and being a good neighbor in the Haymarket community.”
Children’s Book Drive
             Reflecting his desire to have a positive impact on the surrounding community, Ward is inviting his First 100 guests and restaurant customers to celebrate the new location by participating in a children’s book drive for a local elementary school. Ward is collecting new and gently used children’s books on Aug. 3 and Aug. 4 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The donated books will be placed in a nearly 3-foot Book House to serve as a free library exchange and will be donated to Prince William County Schools. The Book House, built from reclaimed wood, is donated by the Chick-fil-A Foundation (https://www.chick-fil-
afoundation.org/). Last year with the help of communities from coast to coast, Chick-fil-A collected more than 10,000 books, which were donated to 89 local organizations in 30 states and Washington, D.C. Restaurant Details
The new Haymarket Chick-fil-A restaurant features a:
·      restaurant design using hand-made, authentic materials for a vintage-inspired interior, including a large gathering table made from reclaimed wood, subway tiles, and light fixtures made from recycled Coca-Cola bottles and peach baskets.
·      two-story interactive indoor play area for children and free Wi-Fi.
·      drive-thru service expanded to offer dual drive-thru ordering lanes and screens to enable customers to quickly move into a single lane for payment and pick up.
·      dining room with seating for 134 and additional outdoor patio seats
·      full-service menu including breakfast until 10:30 a.m., and will be open Monday through Saturday from     6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Like all Chick-fil-A locations, it will be closed on Sunday.
Recent Stories
Looking for a fun and educational experience for kids? Check out Semillitas: Puerto Rican Bomba Kids. This event brings Puerto Rican bomba songs, dance, and music to Stafford every Sunday starting February 2, 2025, and running through June 1, 2025. Kids will enjoy learning rhythm, dance moves, and songs in an interactive environment.
The classes are designed for children up to 10, with a unique May 4 program featuring visiting artists from Puerto Rico!
Dates: Feb 2nd, Mar 2nd, Apr 6th, Jun 1st
Time: 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Virtuous Dance Center, 31 Utah Place #101, Stafford.
Cost: $10 for the first child, $7 for additional children per class, $32 for all four classes for the first child, and $24 for each additional child.
It’s free to submit your events to Potomac Local! Simply visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the details, and we’ll feature your event!
Authorities have released additional details regarding the homicide of 61-year-old Charles Childress and 59-year-old Kimberly Newcomb, whose bodies were discovered on January 25, 2025, at a residence in the 10800 block of Heatherwood Drive.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office initially responded to the home after a concerned friend discovered a deceased female and called 911. Upon arrival, deputies found both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have now confirmed that both victims died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following the autopsy, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) continue their investigation and work around the clock to process evidence and interview potential witnesses. While the relationship between the victims remains under investigation, it has been confirmed that they were living together at the residence.
Crews from Stafford Utilities are repairing a water main break on Route 1 southbound near Centreport Parkway. The far-right and center lanes of the highway will be closed to traffic as repairs are made, though the far left lane remains open. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution through the area.
Stafford County spokeswoman Shannon Eubanks said one customer remains without water due to the break. The cause of the water main rupture is still under investigation.
There is no estimated completion time for the repairs, as crews must first identify the problem before calculating how long it will take to fix it. Howell emphasized that safety remains a priority and urged drivers to avoid the closed lanes where possible.
More as we have it.
The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Operations Board meeting on January 17, 2025, saw several significant discussions aimed at enhancing service and infrastructure across the transit system. Among the most talked-about topics were the introduction of Saturday service, a crucial funding agreement for the Manassas Line, solutions for parking challenges at stations, and major infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Seminary Yard and the Long Bridge upgrades. Each of these initiatives is designed to improve the commuter experience and accommodate a growing ridership base.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the ongoing development of Saturday service, a long-awaited addition that has been approved and included in VRE’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Set to feature three round-trip trains on the Fredericksburg and Manassas lines, this service is expected to cater to weekend commuters, offering a much-needed alternative to the crowded roads in the region.
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:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
