I hope you’re enjoying your Sunday morning while managing to stay dry. Rain is in the forecast as we finish the weekend and begin the new work week on Monday.
As we look back on the week that was and share with you the top five most-read stories on Potomac Local News. I’ll also take a moment to review the week that was.
- We told the story of former IBM employees who gathered to commemorate the founding of the company’s Manassas headquarters 5o years ago. When I was a child riding in the backseat of my parents’ car, I remember riding past the old building and seeing the IBM sign. I later remember listening to a radio program about IBM planning to close its Manassas headquarters, and the effect it was going to have on the city. It was a pleasure to work with the folks who held a commemorative 50th-anniversary party to tell their stories.
- Our subscribers were treated this week to a great story about a fourth-grade girl who convinced school officials in Stafford County to ban plastic straws in public schools. That’s impressive.
- We’re back in the habit sending out our”Potomac Local List” events email newsletter on Thursdays. It’s a mix of our local reporting, and a don’t-miss events list. Please let us know what you think.
- For Nurses Week, we compiled a special sponsored post this week for Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center featuring eight hard-working nurses who wanted to share their stories with our readers. Here’s a hat tip to them and all nurses who work tirelessly to care for others.
- Megan Dietrick has joined us as a summer reporter from the University of Pittsburgh. She’ll be posting content to our website, writing local news for our web, and learning about what makes our community unique. I hope you take the time commenting here, or by sending us an email and welcoming her to the team.
Here are the top most-read stories on our site this week:
- Fredericksburg man killed on I-95
- Former IBM Manassas employees gather for 50th-anniversary celebration
- Woman sexually assaulted at Woodbridge park
- Updated: Downed power lines force closure of portion of Route 234
- Temporary closure of Route 17 at I-95 planned
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Recent Stories
Traffic disruptions and lane reductions are set to begin on northbound I-495 (Capital Beltway Inner Loop) near Tysons, Virginia, as part of the 495 NEXT project’s Big Beam Weekend. The impacts will start tonight, Friday, January 24, at 9 p.m., and continue through 5 a.m. Monday, January 27. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and plan alternate routes, as significant delays and backups are anticipated.
Discover the hidden gems and rich history of Downtown Manassas on the thrilling Manassas Scavenger Hunt! This exciting walking tour will take you on a journey through the charming streets of Manassas, unlocking the secrets of its iconic landmarks and beloved attractions. From the historic Veterans Memorial to the majestic Water Tower and the Opera House, each location offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.
Join the adventure and solve clues, unravel mysteries, and dive into the captivating stories that make Manassas unique. It’s a perfect outing for friends, families, or anyone looking for a fun and engaging way to explore this vibrant city.
Ready to embark on this unforgettable journey? Visit Manassas Scavenger Hunt for tickets and details.
With contraception rights under scrutiny nationwide, Virginia Democrats are doubling down on efforts to safeguard access, even as they brace for potential pushback from Gov. Glenn Youngkin, the Virginia Mercury reports.
House Bill 1716, introduced by Del. Cia Price, D-Newport News, passed the House of Delegates on Thursday, while a companion bill from Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, cleared the Senate Education and Health Committee.
Last year, similar bills passed both chambers with bipartisan support but were ultimately vetoed by Youngkin.
The Manassas City Council began its three-day retreat on Thursday at James Madison’s historic Montpelier, located over 80 miles south of the city. The event quickly raised concerns about public access after members of the public who traveled to attend the meeting discovered the venue was locked and inaccessible.
Virginia law mandates that government meetings remain open to the public unless they are specifically classified as legal closed-door sessions. According to Virginia’s open meetings laws, the Council’s work session and retreat did not qualify as a closed-door meeting, raising questions about compliance.
Former Councilwoman Lynn Forkell Green attended the event and confirmed the gate to the complex was locked. “I couldn’t get in. Had I not had the cell numbers of council members, I would not have gained access because the meeting space was more than a mile past the gate, and the complex was closed,” Forkell Green said. While she was able to contact a council member who provided the entry code, she noted that most members of the public would not have such relationships or access.
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.
