Happy Wednesday, everyone. If you’re someone who wants to learn more about their community and more about posting news content to the web, please contact me for information about a 12-week internship. It’s 100% remote, and it’s great for students and seniors.Â
Here’s what’s happening locally.Â
New school sup: Stafford County is expected to announce a new superintendent for its government school division tonight. The county School Board will meet at 7:30 p.m. at the school’s HQ, at 31 Stafford Avenue. Former Superintendent Dr. Scott Kizner retired September 1.
Happy 246th Birthday: Governor-Elect Glenn Youngkin will attend a cake cutting ceremony for the 246th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps and greet veterans at the National Museum of the Marine Corps at 10:30 a.m. today.
It’s that dam siren again:Â A test of the Occoquan Dam be held at 10 a.m. on November 17, 2021. People living between Occoquan and Belmont Bay and commuters will hear a loud siren at that time.
Cushioning the crush:Â Prince William Supervisors approved a $10 million “Lift Up Lodging and Restore Retail” grant to cushion the ongoing crunch felt by hotels, restaurants, event spaces, and storefront retail businesses.
Toys for Tots:Â The Prince William police department Community Engagement Unit will partner with a group called Santa’s Helpers to collect new toys for the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.
Drip and Drop: The Prince William County Service Authority published a pair of activity booklets designed to educate children about water, wastewater and the environment.
Final trivia night: Occoquan will hold its last Trivia Night of the year, Friday, November 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at River Mill Park. Residents are encouraged to bring camp chairs, blankets, and food for a team of up to 6 people to rent a 10 ft. circle.Â
Diving deep:Â Jeff and Merial Currer, who own Patriot Scuba in Occoquan, are helping veterans heal physically and mentally through the techniques learned in the PADI Adaptive Support Diver and Adaptive Techniques Specialty courses.Â
Best Christmas towns:Â Williamsburg, Va. has been ranked 15th out of 152 Â best “Christmas Towns” in America.
Recent Stories
![](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/012422-stafford-school-bus-.jpg)
A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the region from 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, to 7 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025, prompting numerous school closings and early dismissals. The National Weather Service forecasts heavy snowfall between 4 to 8 inches, with snowfall rates reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour Tuesday afternoon and evening. Hazardous road conditions are expected to impact both the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.
![](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/end-meals-tax-dixie-bones.jpeg)
The Prince William County Board of County Supervisors will address the county’s meals tax during the upcoming budget deliberations, according to Chair At-Large Deshundra Jefferson. The meals tax, enacted in 2022, has been a concern for local restaurant owners, some of whom are advocating for its repeal.
The proposed meal tax (also called the food and beverage tax) for Prince William County in FY2025 is projected to generate $42 million in revenue. This represents a $10 million increase from the previous year, reflecting a significant rise of 31.25%.
The tax has drawn strong reactions from the restaurant industry, where owners have repeatedly called for its abolition, arguing that it places additional strain on their already tight margins. Restaurant owners have pointed to the increased costs they’ve faced over the past few years, compounded by inflation and staffing shortages, making the meals tax particularly burdensome.
![](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/workout-anytime-dumfries-.jpg)
A new gym is set to open in Dumfries, bringing 24/7 fitness access to the community. Workout Anytime will celebrate its grand opening on February 13 at 18069 Triangle Shopping Plaza (Suite C&D), offering state-of-the-art equipment, personalized training, and a commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle.
At the helm of the new gym is Gary Wortham Jr., a former James Madison University football player and recruiter, taking on the general manager role. Wortham, a longtime Dumfries resident, is excited to bring his passion for fitness and community building to this new venture.
“We’re thrilled to be opening a full 24-hour fitness facility right in the heart of Dumfries,” Wortham said. “This town hasn’t had anything like this before, and I’m excited to provide a space where people of all ages can work toward their health and wellness goals.”
![](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/475647058_1029157722580705_3797163681947833481_n.jpg)
OmniRide has earned the prestigious Best Workplaces for Commuters designation, meeting rigorous standards for excellence in employee commuter benefits. This national recognition highlights OmniRide’s commitment to providing stress-free, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation options for Northern Virginia commuters.
Experience award-winning service with OmniRide’s reliable express and local bus routes, designed to save you time, money, and hassle. Join thousands of commuters who choose OmniRide for a smarter, greener way to travel.
Learn more at OmniRide.com.
![announcement-6133063584918090649](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/announcement-6133063584918090649-630x420.jpg)
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:
![announcement-6130270649951247053](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/announcement-6130270649951247053-630x420.jpg)
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.
(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