Good Thursday morning, and welcome to our newsletter. I don’t have a catchy name yet, so we’ll keep it simple. “Newsletter” is fine.
Today’s newsletter is brought to you by our longtime sponsors Virginia National Bank, where you can hit the target on your financial goals in 2024 with its new four-month, nine-month, and 15-month CD Specials at 5.35%.
Sunny and mild, showers later…Water’s End Brewery has your weather forecast because, sometimes, no matter the weather, all you need is a Damn Beer.
Volunteers were out in force counting the homeless in Prince William County this past weekend, participating in the region’s annual homeless count. As this Potomac Local original report uncovered, the county used a new method to boost participation in the survey — distributing gift cards.
A Haymarket man is charged after police said he shot and killed his 16-year-old cocker-spaniel.
For Locals Only: Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen in downtown Fredericksburg offers a unique bourbon experience with over 180 selections, signature cocktails, and a locally sourced menu.
- Launched in 2020, it survived pandemic challenges by adapting its services. Recognized as a top whisky bar, Rebellion is more than a bourbon bar—it’s a downtown destination.
- Our ‘Locals Only’ members get first read. In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community. Join Today!
From bourbon to beer, the local brewery market is tightening, and beer-makers in our area must differentiate themselves to stay afloat. The Prince William Times reports (leaky paywall) that, nationally, breweries experienced close to zero growth in 2022, and sales declined 2% in the first half of 2023. Locally, demand for brewpubs is still strong, but consumer tastes are changing.
Hello, baby! A Virignia State Police trooper delivered a baby on the side of Interstate 66 in Prince William County. Mom, Audrey, and Dad are doing well, we’re told.
Way to go, baby! Mary Washington University grad Jin Wong talks about his fateful interview with baseball legend Hank Aaron and his 24 years with the Kansas City Royals. Not a bad representative for the class of 1997, who is now working for the Chicago White Sox.
Now for Local Spotlight Member News.
- Join the fun at Manassas Park Community Center! Now accepting applications for Teen Recreation Leaders. Dive into exciting opportunities working with teens in the Community Center and Teen Center. Contact Mike Arrington at [email protected] for more info.
- Dive into Dixie Bones BBQ in Woodbridge! Sunday Special: All You Can Eat BBQ Buffet, 11 am – 3 pm. Adults $18.95, Kids (under 12) $9.95.
- Join Local Spotlight today and put the power of Potomac Local, reaching 1.5 million readers online, on social, and in this email newsletter, to work for you.
Best in the biz: The 2024 Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Award nominees are up. You probably know a few of them. Voting is open until Valentine’s Day. The award show is on February 23, from 5 to 10 p.m. at Foxchase Manor. Good luck to all the nominees!
Not to be outdone, Stafford County announced its business appreciation ceremony in April at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts.
In Richmond, there have been at least 2,529 bills and resolutions introduced during the General Assembly session. Of these, at least 87 have been passed in the House, and 147 have been passed in the Senate. The Prince William Chamber of Commerce updates us.
Also announced, Prince William County will hold its second annual “State of Parks” event on Feb. 29. The county parks department manages 5,000+ acres of parkland, 80 park properties, and 60+ miles of trails. Get out there.
Helping to spread the word, Occoquan Mayor Earine Porta tells us where to drop off Valentine’s for Vets, a project of Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-Prince William, Stafford, Fredericksburg).
And, since we’ve brought politics into it (because what’s a Potomac Local newsletter without some local politics?), time is running out for you to register to vote in person.
That’s it for today. Please email us your news tips and photos, or say hello.
Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you tomorrow.
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Recent Stories
Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop is currently on leave, the school announced Thursday in a message to families.
Prince William County Public Schools did not provide further details upon  InsideNoVa’s request as it is a “personnel matter,” said Director of Communications Diana Gulotta.
Empower yourself and take the first step towards self-care and growth at the Commitment to Self: “I Do!” Women’s Empowerment Conference!
Topics include:
– Navigating power structures
– Women’s health issues
– Learning to A-D-A-P-T and tap into your power
– Discovering your best self today
Fredericksburg celebrated the grand opening of its new Visitor Center on January 10, 2025, with an open-house event that drew hundreds today at the newly renamed City Center government building, formerly known as the Executive Plaza. Community members gathered at 601 Caroline Street to explore the revamped space, enjoy light refreshments, and learn about the Visitor Center’s offerings.
The new facility, described as brighter and more accessible, provides an inviting hub for showcasing Fredericksburg’s artists and businesses. “The center is fabulous,” said Mayor Kerry Devine. “It has space for showcasing our artists and businesses, and we’re just so excited to welcome people to this new center.”
Rita McClenney, President and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation, emphasized the importance of the Visitor Center as a resource for wayfinding and discovering unique experiences in Fredericksburg. “A lot of people research before they travel, but there’s nothing like being on the ground and finding out about a place through the people who know it best,” said McClenney.
What kitty can resist Churu Treat Lickables? Not many, and thanks to a very generous donation of them, 24-754 Eve is coming around and opening up.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
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.
Featuring:
