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Sponsor | Virginia National Bank

Virginia National Bank is a longtime Potomac Local News sponsor and a proud community bank dedicated to strengthening the neighborhoods it serves by offering personalized financial solutions and supporting local businesses and nonprofits. With a deep commitment to fostering growth and prosperity, Virginia National Bank is more than just a bank—it’s a trusted partner invested in the success of its communities.


Originals

The Fredericksburg City Council has announced a series of public meetings and work sessions as it considers approving the city’s first data centers within a newly proposed Technology Overlay Zoning District (TOD). The meetings aim to gather public input and provide transparency as the city plans to encourage high-technology industrial development in Celebrate Virginia South, next to the Fredericksburg Nationals baseball stadium. While the council is promoting data centers as an opportunity for economic growth, concerns from local activists and experts highlight potential challenges, including environmental and community impacts. A recent report by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission…

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) announced that all its locations will remain closed today, Tuesday, January 7, 2025, citing “continued dangerous road conditions.” This decision comes after the library had initially planned to open at 1 p.m. on Tuesday following a delayed start due to inclement weather. The announcement was first made on Monday, January 6, in response to winter storms that have left roads icy and treacherous throughout the region. Residents are encouraged to check CRRL’s website and social media channels for updates regarding reopening plans. Library services, including online resources and virtual assistance, remain available for those…

Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors will hold its next meeting Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 5 p.m. The meeting will be streamed live, and the agenda will be posted online. Supervisor Monica Gary, Aquia District, confirmed the meeting is still being held despite the county government and schools closing for weather conditions. Tonight’s meeting is primarily organizational, with the board set to elect a new chairman and vice-chairman. They will also review their proposed meeting schedule for the new year, and consider appointments to a number of committees and boards. Stafford’s Board of Supervisors is comprised of seven elected representatives, who each represent…

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion. The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a…

Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8. Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee…


Sponsor | Freedom Property Management and Sales

Freedom Property Management & Sales offers complete property management, real estate, and military relocation services, all supported by a skilled and experienced team. Committed to clear communication and customer satisfaction, they provide user-friendly tech tools to ensure a smooth experience for tenants, owners, and clients. We thank you for your sponsorship of local news in our community!


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Sponsor | OmniRide

OmniRide is the operating name for the mobility services offered by the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC). OmniRide’s goal is to provide safe, reliable, and flexible transportation options while helping to reduce congestion and pollution in one of the region’s fastest-growing areas. OmniRide’s headquarters are in Woodbridge, Virginia, about 25 miles southwest of Washington, D.C.


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Sponsor | Tangs Alterations, Bridal, and Bespoke

From blue jeans to business attire to brides, Tang’s Alterations, Bridal, and Bespoke is a full-service alteration shop and a private bridal studio in Manassas, Virginia.


Announcements


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Sponsor | Pr. Wm. County Office of Historic Preservation

The Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation stewards County-owned historic structures, cultural and natural resources, landscapes, and artifacts.


Events

Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run. This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door. St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy…


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Recent Stories

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.

Looking for a new best friend? Meet Echo, a 3-4-month-old pup full of love, energy, and curiosity. This little guy, possibly a Boxer mix, is still finding his voice, but…

Should Virginia ditch the longstanding practice of electing the General Assembly and the governor in odd year elections?

The first odd year election in Virginia was in 1851, after a new state Constitution was approved and members of the House were elected to a two-year term. Before that, members of the House had one-year terms, and voters selected members every single year.

Now, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell says modern day voters are sick and tired of voting every year.

A Manassas man was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for providing drugs and alcohol to a child in exchange for sex acts and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting the same victim as well as other children.

According to court documents, Olajide Benjamin Ayilaran, 24, met a 14-year-old girl during the summer of 2023 and began communicating with the victim via iMessage. In the messages, Ayilaran offered to provide the victim drugs, alcohol, and nicotine products in exchange for sex acts. Between at least Nov. 21, 2023, and Feb. 29, 2024, Ayilaran met the victim nine times, usually in the morning before the victim went to school, to exchange the products for sexual acts. Ayilaran would wait for the victim in his car in a nearby park. When the victim arrived, he gave her the drugs and alcohol and then had the victim perform sex acts on him in the car.

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:

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