Publisher’s Post: Protests, Farewells, and a Championship Ring

Protesters rally in Manassas and Fredericksburg against Trump policies

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Manassas and Fredericksburg on Saturday as part of the nationwide “Hands Off!” movement opposing the Trump administration’s policies. In Manassas, about 1,000 protesters gathered near the Social Security office. In Fredericksburg, demonstrators filled downtown with signs expressing concerns over cuts to public programs. The coordinated events were among more than 1,100 protests held nationwide.

FredNats swept to start season — but 2024 champs still shine

The Fredericksburg Nationals (0-3) dropped all three games to the Carolina Mudcats, struggling with 27 walks across the series. Despite the rocky start, fans can celebrate the 2024 Carolina League Championship at a noon ring ceremony today at Riverfront Park in Fredericksburg.

Read more: potomaclocal.com/2025/03/28/frednats-to-celebrate-2024-carolina-league-championship-with-ring-ceremony-at-riverfront-park/

Saying goodbye to a Dumfries institution

After 34 years, Padrinos Restaurant & Bar is closing its doors. Dumfries Mayor Derrick Wood presented owner Sal Basile with a proclamation recognizing his decades of service and hospitality. We’ve covered campaign events and hip-hop performances there over the years—this one’s personal.

Sal, thank you. Enjoy your well-earned retirement.

Dumfries townhouse fire displaces one

On Thursday, April 3, a fire broke out in an upstairs bathroom at a townhouse on McDowell Court. Damage from broken water lines and a closed bathroom door helped contain the flames. No injuries were reported. The Red Cross is assisting the displaced resident.

Joint Town Hall in Stafford later this month

Leaders from the Stafford County Board of Supervisors and School Board will host a Joint Town Hall on Monday, April 29, from 6–8 p.m. at Colonial Forge High School. They’ll take questions and talk about infrastructure, transportation, budget, and economic development. The meeting will not be streamed.

Elizabeth Guzman to challenge Ian Lovejoy in House District 22

A familiar face is back on the ballot in western Prince William County. Former Delegate Elizabeth Guzman, a Democrat who previously represented parts of Dale City and Fauquier County, has announced her candidacy for House District 22, challenging incumbent Republican Delegate Ian Lovejoy in this fall’s election.

In 2022, she garnered national attention for proposing legislation that would have expanded the definition of child abuse to include parents who do not affirm their child’s gender identity or sexual orientation—a move that sparked considerable debate.

Ghost hunt at Annaburg Manor

Love a good scare? Join Old Spirits Investigations for a paranormal exploration of Annaburg Manor in Manassas on April 25, 7–10 p.m. Tickets are $25. Space is limited.

Register here: cityofmanassas.recdesk.com/Community/Program

Free concert in Fredericksburg

St. George’s Episcopal Church invites you to hear The Peacemakers on Sunday, April 27 at 3 p.m. Enjoy world music and modern folk in the beautiful, acoustically rich nave. Admission is free. Donations welcome.

Learn more: stgeorgesepiscopal.net/music/concerts

Heads up: Nighttime road closures near Haymarket

Waterfall/Hopewell Road (Route 601) will be closed 10 p.m.–4 a.m. April 7–9 for drainage work near 17002 Waterfall Road. Local traffic allowed. Detour via Antioch Road and Route 55.

Manassas Park Community Center’s Easter Egg Hunts

Flashlight hunts. Photos with the Easter Bunny. Crafts, games, and golden eggs. The fun starts this Friday. Don’t miss our noon post today on potomaclocal.com for all the details and how to register.

Weather update: Cold, rainy start to the week

Expect rain through midday Monday, with one to two inches possible. Highs will only reach the upper 40s to low 50s. Skies will clear on Tuesday, but it will stay chilly with gusty winds up to 35 mph. Overnight lows tonight and Tuesday night will dip into the 20s and 30s.

Coming up on PotomacLocal.com today:

• 7 a.m. – Haymarket Police Chief hosts Senior Summit
• 11 a.m. – Goats on the Job! at Old Mill Park
• 1 p.m. – Dumfries updates 2025 event calendar
• 3 p.m. – Manassas School Board votes on collective bargaining ban

Check back all day long for fresh, local stories you won’t want to miss at potomaclocal.com.

Potomac Local Weekly Recap (March 31–April 6)

Top 5 Most-Read Stories:

• Buc-ee’s submits plans for 120-pump travel center in Stafford
• Girlfriend’s Taphouse opens in North Stafford
• Police blotter: Father, son drown; assaults reported
• Stafford schools warn of devastating cuts after Youngkin veto
• Prince William Supervisors unite on cracking down on noise

Top 5 Cities by Page Views:

• Stafford – 6,429 views
• Fredericksburg – 4,886 views
• Woodbridge – 4,264 views
• Washington, D.C. – 3,169 views
• Manassas – 1,524 views

Thanks for reading, and keep checking potomaclocal.com for the stories your neighbors are talking about.