My longtime friend, Kenny Loveless, proprietor at Tangs Alterations in Manassas, a Local Spotlight member, and my tailor picked up this mailbox for me at a local antique store. The Manassas Journal Messenger is where my career came into focus and where I put in the time, training, and effort to learn the media business and laid the groundwork to become an entrepreneur.
Hired in 2006 to work at the daily newspaper, I was tasked with helping the salespeople in the bullpen close their deals. I was able to travel around the community, meet the business leaders of our community, and get an education on how to help businesses grow.
Later, as a reporter at sister publications Stafford County Sun and Potomac News in Woodbridge, I learned the ropes of local journalism — and that advertising salespeople make more money, but that’s another story.
The Manassas Journal Messenger was published from the late 1850s to 2009, when it combined with The Potomac News to become News & Messenger. The combined newspaper and the Stafford Sun stopped the presses for the last time in 2012.
Not a day goes by that I’m not reminded of what I learned at that institution: Tell interesting stories about the community, always provide value to your customers, and deliver on your promises.
Here’s to the “JM” and the people who made it great and all the great things that lie ahead for the future of local news.
In Local Spotlight member news, prepare for the Super Bowl with Dixie Bones BBQ’s unbeatable specials! This Saturday and Sunday, swing by their Woodbridge location to enjoy:
– Half Rack Ribs (6 bones) for $17.95
– 1 lb. of smoked wings (12 – 14 wings) for $10.95
– 1 Quart of Chili for $14.95
From tender ribs to flavorful wings, they’ve got everything you need to elevate your gameday spread. Don’t miss out on these delicious deals!
Meanwhile, the Manassas Park Community Center is celebrating Black History through craft! We love handcrafted creations because they tell a story. Take & make a paper treat bookbag to celebrate student Ruby Bridges’ bravery that helped pave the way for the civil rights movement in the American South. Pick up at the front desk.
If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member, and thank you!
- Join our Locals Only Membership Today! 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.
- Our Local Spotlight Membership is perfect for businesses and non-profits to increase sales, donations, and branding awareness in the community.
Recent Stories
SALEM, Va. – The Fredericksburg Nationals defeated the Salem Red Sox 9-5 on Tuesday night, powered by a dominant start from Bryan Polanco and a seven-run sixth inning.
A teen suspect was arrested for a strong-arm robbery at Potomac Mills, while another faces charges for secretly filming and assaulting classmates. Stafford County deputies responded to assaults, larcenies, DUIs, and vandalism.
Rappahannock Area Community Services Board will present its “Art of Recovery” exhibition from May 2 to 31 at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library in Fredericksburg.
MANASSAS, Va. — Residents packed City Hall on Monday, April 28, 2025, to speak out during three public hearings on proposed increases to real estate taxes, personal property taxes, utility rates, and the city’s $174 million operating budget for fiscal year 2026.
Empower Your Future: Leadership, Mentorship, Education, and Networking — Calling middle and high school students for FREE Educational Summer Programming!
LLT STEMpower Camp at Marymount University
Middle School Students | Two Sessions:
July 7–11, 2025
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
