Good morning, everyone!
It’s Monday, August 5, 2024, and I’m Uriah Kiser, the publisher of Potomac Local News. Thank you for joining us for a brief overview of what we’re working on today. It has been a busy 24 hours for us, with a significant story breaking, which I’ll get to shortly. But first, I have a couple of important announcements.
New Sponsor Announcement
I’m thrilled to announce a new sponsor for Potomac Local News. We sincerely appreciate the local businesses, especially the Mom and Pops, that support us because they are the backbone of our community. These businesses create jobs and strengthen our local economy; we are here to help them.
Our new sponsor, NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair, specializes in waterproofing and foundation repair. Based in Manassas, they serve a wide area, including Manassas Park, Prince William County, Stafford, Fredericksburg, Fairfax, Loudoun, and even parts of Maryland. They offer services from basement waterproofing to shoring up floors and fixing foundations. With rainy weather forecasted for this week and Tropical Storm Debbie approaching, now is the perfect time to consider getting a free inspection and estimate to ensure your home is ready.
Breaking News from Quantico
We broke another significant story regarding Quantico Marine Corps Base. Over the weekend, State Senator Tara Durant informed us that at least two other illegal immigrants intruded on the base on May 3rd, the same day two Jordanian nationals were arrested after posing as Amazon delivery employees and ramming their box truck into vehicle barriers.
These two men, identified as Hasan Y. Hamdan and Mohammad K. Dabous, were arrested, processed by ICE, and released on bond with a court hearing scheduled for September. Despite our repeated requests, Quantico officials have not provided any comments on these incidents. Governor Glenn Youngkin had also requested a briefing from the White House, but as far as we know, no further information has been provided.
We will continue to cover this developing story diligently, seeking answers and updates as Quantico plays a crucial role in our community, with 17,000 people coming in and out daily and major tenant commands on the base, including the FBI Academy.
Other Stories
Later today, look out for a story on why the Manassas Park Community Center will be closed next week for scheduled maintenance. Additionally, we have a feature on the Fredericksburg Food Co-op and the new benefits they are launching. If you haven’t checked out the co-op yet, it’s a fantastic place with a lot to offer.
Another significant piece we’re working on is about the Stafford County Animal Shelter, which is currently overwhelmed with animals. Many pets are being surrendered because their owners can no longer afford to care for them, a situation exacerbated by the pandemic. This is not just an issue in Stafford but is affecting shelters throughout our area. We will provide more details on how you can help these needy animals.
That’s it for today’s update. Have a great Monday, and we will talk with you soon.
Uriah Kiser
Founder & Publisher
Potomac Local News
Author
Recent Stories
(AP) — Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Sunday and predicted six more weeks of wintry weather, his top-hatted handlers announced to a raucus, record-sized crowd at Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania.
Phil was welcomed with chants of “Phil, Phil, Phil,” and pulled from a hatch on his tree stump shortly after sunrise before a member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club read from a scroll in which he boasted: “Only I know — you can’t trust A.I.”
At approximately 2:45 P.M. on Saturday, February 1st, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) responded to a reported structure fire in the 100 block of Aquia Creek Road, near Aquia Creek. Callers reported a neighboring residence on fire, and first arriving units marked the scene less than 10 minutes later and confirmed fire and smoke coming from the rear and roof of a single-family residence.
Due to a lack of hydrants in the area, crews had to utilize rural water operations to shuttle water to the scene. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire and bring it under control in approximately an hour, despite the roof collapsing.
The residence was not occupied at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. The fire is under routine investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office. SCFR units were assisted on scene by Quantico Fire and Emergency Services.
(AP) — Preliminary data from the deadliest U.S. aviation accident in nearly 25 years showed conflicting readings about the altitudes of an airliner and Army helicopter when they collided near Reagan National Airport in Washington, killing everyone aboard both aircraft, investigators said Saturday.
ARTfactory and Birmingham Green made headlines in Manassas this week. ARTfactory’s Rooftop Productions, now Actors Theatre, won seven awards at the 2024 DC Broadway World Awards, including Best Musical for Kinky Boots and Best Choreography for The Rocky Horror Show. ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre also earned recognition, winning Best Theatre for Young Audiences for its production of The Wizard of Oz.
Meanwhile, Birmingham Green, ranked as Northern Virginia’s top nursing home by Newsweek Magazine, announced Duane Smith as its new Nursing Home Administrator, effective December 30, 2024. Smith brings extensive experience from senior living leadership roles across multiple states and holds several professional qualifications. Birmingham Green continues its 90-year mission of providing quality long-term care to Northern Virginians in need.
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.
