Fredericksburg Schools Delayed After Mass Shooting
Fredericksburg City Public Schools will open two hours late today in response to a mass shooting that left three people dead and three others hospitalized in nearby Spotsylvania County.
School officials made the decision late Tuesday, citing the “profound impact this incident has had on members of our school community.”
The shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m. in the area of Olde Greenwich Circle, just off Lafayette Boulevard. Deputies arrived to find six victims with gunshot wounds. Three were pronounced dead at the scene, and three others were hospitalized. Authorities have not released their conditions or the identities of the victims.
No arrests have been made. The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation remains active, and the public is urged to avoid the area.
This remains a developing story. Potomac Local News will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Prince William County Reaffirms Commitment to Fix Route 28 After Canceling Bypass Project
Prince William Board of County Supervisors Chair At-Large Deshundra Jefferson issued a statement today after the board voted to reimburse the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) for nearly $7.5 million in expenses related to the now-canceled Route 28 Bypass Project.
“While we canceled this specific project, Prince William County officials remain determined to find a solution to the traffic issues in the Route 28 corridor,” Jefferson said.
Background: Supervisor Vega’s call to widen Route 28
For Second Straight Year, I-66 EMP Sponsors PWCCF’s Back-To-School Event
I-66 Express Mobility Partners reaffirmed its support of the Prince William County Community Foundation’s annual Back-To-School Community Event with a $5,000 donation. The event returns August 2 at Gar-Field High School, providing backpacks and resources to more than 7,000 students.
Scholarships Awarded to Students at Annual Education and Workforce Breakfast
Six local students were recognized at the Prince William Chamber Foundation’s Education and Workforce Breakfast on April 3. Each received a $2,500 scholarship based on academic achievement and community involvement. The event also included a panel discussion about how local businesses can better support student success through Career and Technical Education partnerships.
2025 Community Health Assessment Released; CHIP Planning Kicks Off
The 2025 Community Health Assessment for the Fredericksburg region identifies top issues, including behavioral health, access to care, and healthy lifestyles. Community input will now help shape a Community Health Improvement Plan.
Planning Meeting: April 10, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
John F. Fick III Conference Center, Fredericksburg
Register here
James Long Park Intersection Project Completed in Haymarket
Prince William County completed a $5.5 million project to upgrade access to James Long Park in Haymarket. Improvements include a realigned intersection, safer entrances, and a paved parking lot. County leaders hailed the project as a model of cross-departmental collaboration.
$12.5 Million Route 1 Project to Begin in Stafford County
Stafford County will soon begin work on Route 1 at Telegraph Road and Woodstock Lane to ease congestion and improve safety. The $12.5 million project includes turn lanes, a realigned intersection, and a new median.
Public Info Meeting: April 14, 5–7 p.m.
George L. Gordon Jr. Government Center
Project details
Fredericksburg Earth Day Festival Set for April 26
The region’s largest Earth Day event returns to Old Mill Park in Fredericksburg on Saturday, April 26. Expect 70+ vendors, goat yoga, rock climbing, kayaking, and more.
April 26, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Event details at earthdayfred.com
Read our full preview
I-95 Southbound Off-Ramp at Exit 126 to Close Overnight
I-95 Exit 126 (Spotsylvania) will be closed overnight from 11 p.m. April 10 to 4 a.m. April 11 for paving. Alternate exits include Route 3 (Exit 130) and Thornburg (Exit 118).
More from VDOT
Dr. Brenda J. Russ Named Principal of Hugh Mercer Elementary
The Fredericksburg City School Board appointed Dr. Brenda J. Russ as the next principal of Hugh Mercer Elementary School in Fredericksburg, effective April 7. A veteran educator and “equity leader,” she brings a decade of experience and deep roots in the community.
Top 3 Most-Read Stories Today
- Gun discharges in 3rd grade classroom at Lee Hill Elementary School – no injuries reported
- Buc-ee’s submits plans for 120-pump travel center in Stafford County
- Parents of student who brought gun to Lee Hill Elementary School face criminal charges
Other Stories We’re Following
- “No Opt-In, No Ride” – Stafford County reimagines school transportation
- Prince William Supervisors challenge public schools on budget funding
- Veterans tax relief under the spotlight in Stafford
- Manassas unveils upgrades at Dean Park
Coming Wednesday on PotomacLocal.com
- Dumfries considers launching its own Economic Development Authority
Town leaders say creating an EDA could give them more power to grow business and attract investment through property deals, grants, and development bonds. - Manassas plans $1.3 million renovation to Harris Pavilion — delayed until 2026
Supply chain delays have pushed the long-awaited repairs to the city’s iconic gathering space into next year. - Stafford’s Government Center getting a $1 million upgrade
The main lobby and Board chambers will undergo modernization for the first time since the building opened in 1990.
Visit potomaclocal.com for the latest local headlines, government updates, community events, and ways to get involved in your neighborhood.
Got a story we should cover or a shoutout for someone doing great things? Let us know!
Potomac Local Podcasts Drop All Week — Don’t Miss These Local Voices
We’re rolling out a full slate of Potomac Local News Podcast episodes this week. Each one dives deep into the history, people, and places shaping our region. Subscribe on YouTube so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes go live.
Here’s what’s coming:
- Buckland Mill’s Past and Future: Rob Orrison shares how this forgotten 18th-century mill town in Prince William County is being preserved and reopened for the public.
- Brentsville’s Oldest Home Gets New Life: Paige Gibbons-Backus walks us through the effort to restore the Williams-Dawe House, built in the 1820s.
- Preserving Voices Before They’re Gone: Lauren Maloy explains the county’s oral history project and why your stories matter more than ever.
In Case You Missed It: Haymarket Police Chief Allen Sibert joined us to talk about the Senior Summit coming up April 24—an event to help protect older adults from scams and connect them with trusted local resources.
Catch up and subscribe here: Potomac Local News YouTube Channel
Habitat for Humanity: Home is the Key in April
With poverty affecting 4.9% of Prince William County residents and nearly 70,000 seniors in our region, Habitat for Humanity Prince William County is highlighting the urgent need for affordable housing and home repairs.
This month, they’re joining the national Home is the Key campaign:
- Donate a “Key” at the Manassas ReStore
- Support critical home repairs so residents can age in place
- Learn more at habitatpwc.org
The Bees Are Back — Manassas Bee Festival Returns June 21
Celebrate five years of Manassas as a Bee City USA at the Manassas Bee Festival, Saturday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Liberia House and Grounds.
Highlights include:
- Live beekeeping demonstrations
- Art, crafts, wellness, and yoga
- Spelling bee, live music, and food trucks
- Brew, Mead, and Spirits Garden
Come dressed as a pollinator for the costume parade, bring your instrument to join the backyard jam session, and hop on a free tractor shuttle from downtown.
For sponsorships, vendor info, or to volunteer, visit ManassasBeeFestival.com
REAL ID Deadline is One Month Away
Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or a passport to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
The Virginia DMV is expanding service to meet demand with:
- Appointment-only REAL ID events
- DMV Connect mobile teams
- 76 service centers across the state
REAL ID costs $10 (plus license/ID fee). Start online to save time: dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/real-id
Polk Park Cleanup Launches 2025 Season
On April 5, Keep the Park Beautiful kicked off the year with a cleanup at Polk Park in Manassas Park.
In just two hours, nine volunteers, including members of the Manassas Park High School National Honor Society, collected more than 30 pounds of litter—everything from water bottles to construction debris.
Learn how to join the next cleanup: Keep the Park Beautiful – City of Manassas Park
What Readers Are Clicking on Most Right Now
Here are the top 3 stories on PotomacLocal.com over the past 24 hours:
- Gun Discharges in 3rd Grade Classroom at Lee Hill Elementary
No injuries reported, but the incident has sparked concerns over school safety.
Read more » - Buc-ee’s Eyes Massive Travel Center in Stafford County
120 pumps, major traffic concerns, and economic excitement.
Read more » - FredNats Championship Celebration Moving to Stadium
A new venue announced for Fredericksburg’s big celebration.
Read more »
Don’t Miss These Trending Stories Too:
- Police Blotter: Burglaries, assaults, and arrests
Read more » - Dumfries Updates Parade and Concert Series
See what’s changing » - Cockpit Door Found in Loudoun Field
Get the details »
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Bookmark PotomacLocal.com, and visit often for more original local news you won’t find anywhere else.
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.
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.
Got something to share? Let me know.
I live by email, and, like you, I pay close attention to what lands in my inbox. I especially enjoy the messages that begin with, “Hey, Uriah,” — because I never know where they’re going next.
“Here’s a picture I took of a new restaurant — do you know when it’s going to open?”
“Here’s a photo of a crash — is everyone OK?”
Whether it’s breaking news, a community event, or something interesting you spotted around town, I want to hear from you.
The Friends of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library have launched a special membership drive for the month of April.
The Friends is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization established in 1972 to raise funds to enhance the services of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, focus public attention on the library, and support the library in developing services and facilities for the region.
To celebrate the drive, the Friends are offering membership rewards to anyone who joins or renews in April. Memberships come in multiple levels, each offering different perks. Friends of the Library are also eligible to become members of the Virginia Credit Union and Topside Federal Credit Union.
Learn more or join at crrlfriends.org/join-us
Upcoming Book Sale
The Friends will host a multi-day sale at the Friends of the Library Center & Bookshop, located at 125 Olde Greenwich Drive, Suite 150, Fredericksburg, 22408.
Sale schedule:
- Friday, April 4, 5 to 9 p.m. – Preview Night for Friends members only (non-members may join at the door)
- Saturday, April 5, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Monday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Half-price day
- Tuesday, April 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Half-price in the bookshop, $3 in the warehouse
- Wednesday, April 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Half-price in the bookshop, $3 in the warehouse
The shop will be closed April 1–3 and before 5 p.m. on April 4 to prepare for the sale.
Proceeds support professional development for library staff and popular community programs like Music on the Steps, the Claudia Emerson Teen Poetry Contest, and the Johnny P. Johnson Teen Art Show.
More information is available at facebook.com/CRRLFriends
Easter Events Around Town
Coles District Easter Egg Hunt
Supervisor Yesli Vega will host the Annual Coles District Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 5 at 10 a.m. at Kyle R. Wilson Elementary, 5710 Liberty Hill Court, Woodbridge.
The event includes games, snacks, activities, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The Prince William County Sheriff’s Office will also be on site providing free child ID services. No registration is required to attend.
Easter Bunny Visits Potomac Mills
The Easter Bunny arrives at Potomac Mills on Friday, April 4, and will be available for visits and photos through April 19.
The Bunny Photo Experience is open daily, and reservations are encouraged. A special Caring Bunny event for children with special needs and their families will take place Sunday, April 6 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Potomac Mills is located at 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge.
Learn more and make reservations at simon.com/mall/potomac-mills
Live Theater in Manassas: All My Sons Opens April 5
The ARTfactory in Historic Downtown Manassas will present Arthur Miller’s All My Sons, opening Saturday, April 5 and running through April 13 at the Wind River Theatre.
Set in the aftermath of World War II, the play follows a businessman whose past decisions threaten to tear his family apart. This classic drama explores themes of truth, guilt, and the cost of the American dream.
Performance schedule:
- Saturday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, April 6 at 2:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, April 13 at 2:00 p.m.
Note: The performance includes a simulated gunshot.
Tickets and information at virginiaartfactory.org
Top Stories in the Past 24 Hours
- Page Views: 10,819
- Unique Devices: 9,159
Top 10 most-read articles:
- Buc-ee’s submits plans for 120-pump travel center in Stafford County – 6,480 views
- Police blotter: Father, son drown in river; indecent exposures and assaults reported – 1,096 views
- Home page – 607 views
- Burger hoax, puppy yoga, and community conversations: This week’s Local Buzz – 298 views
- GameStop employee stabs customer at Potomac Mills (Oct. 2023) – 225 views
That’s it for today’s Publisher’s Post. Keep checking back at PotomacLocal.com for more stories that inform and connect our community.
Welcome back, and welcome aboard!
We’re excited to welcome back Whitlock Wealth as one of our featured advertisers. You’ll see their Instant Ad on our site and in our newsletters—offering timely financial advice and practical tips to help you build a more secure future.
We’re also pleased to introduce our newest advertiser, Bradley Marshall, Esq., Criminal Defense Attorney with VFN Law. If you’re stopped or arrested, how you respond matters. Staying calm and knowing your rights is critical—but having the right attorney is just as important. That’s where Bradley Marshall comes in, ready to defend your rights when it matters most.
In-N-Out in Fredericksburg? Not So Fast…
An April Fools’ prank had burger fans doing double takes. A banner reading “Opening Soon” with the In-N-Out Burger logo was spotted at the former Hardee’s on Princess Anne Street in Fredericksburg.
The sign was convincing enough to create a stir, but it was all in good fun.
“Yes, most certainly an amazing April Fools joke. That one got just a few ppl in town yesterday, one of the better ones I’ve seen,” texted Fredericksburg Economic Development Director Josh Summits.
Storms in the Forecast
Heads up: We’ve got an unsettled weather pattern moving through the region starting Thursday afternoon, with showers and thunderstorms likely, especially across northern and western areas. Some storms could be severe, with strong winds and the potential for hail. A cold front will move through Thursday night into Friday morning, pushing the storm threat south of I-66 by Friday night.
The weekend brings a mix of warm and cool temperatures, depending on where you are. Expect 80s in the southwest and 60s in the northeast on Saturday. More showers and thunderstorms are likely Sunday, especially as another cold front moves through, followed by a noticeable drop in temps Sunday night.
PRTC Meeting Canceled
The PRTC Board of Commissioners (OmniRide) meeting scheduled for April 3, 2025, at 7 p.m., has been canceled due to limited action items and the overlap with multiple jurisdictional budget meetings set for the same evening.Â
All public comments submitted for the April 3 meeting will be compiled and shared with the Commissioners this week, the agency told us.
The next meeting of the PRTC Board of Commissioners is scheduled for May 1 at 7 p.m.
Puppy Yoga Returns to Fredericksburg
Join Old Dominion Humane Society for Puppy Yoga on Friday, April 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at their Fredericksburg facility (3602 Lafayette Blvd). Enjoy 30 minutes of puppy mingling followed by a beginner-friendly yoga session.
Cost is $20 per person or $35 per pair—no registration needed.
Proceeds help support rescue efforts.
More info: olddominionhumanesociety.org
You’re Invited: Community Conversations with Delegate Michelle Maldonado
Join Delegate Michelle Maldonado on Thursday, April 3, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Manassas Park Community Center (99 Adams Street) for a conversation on federal layoffs and their trickle-down impact on local families and businesses. Food will be provided.
RSVP: forms.gle/cfYUGRAR3zKKBKrN7
Contact: [email protected]
RACSB Wants to Hear From You
The Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB) is preparing its next strategic plan and wants community feedback to guide future behavioral health and developmental disability services.
Complete the survey by April 18: surveymonkey.com/r/QPXPVQ7
Prefer a paper copy? Email [email protected]
Dad Jokes, Big Heart — A Local Tribute with Laughs
To honor the legacy of Patrick King, creative marketing icon and community champion, Imagine has released a digital book: “Dad Jokes on the Road” by CEO Rebecca Barnes. Priced at just $7, it’s packed with road-trip jokes and serves as a fundraiser for the Patrick King Arts Scholarship.
All proceeds benefit Give Back Prince William, and buyers will receive credit toward a print edition coming later this year.
Buy now: imaginedc.net/dad-jokes-on-the-road
Most-Read Stories in March
Here are the top stories that captured your attention last month:
- Crash Closes Route 17 in Stafford County
- Bridge Repairs Begin on Route 28
- Girlfriends Taphouse Opens in North Stafford
- Two Restaurants Proposed for Sudley Manor Square
- All Fredericksburg City Public Schools Closed Due to Safety Concerns
- VDOT Announces Road Work for March 9–15
- Prince William County Budget Debate
Thank You, Members
To our paying members and loyal readers—thank you. Your support helps keep local news alive and thriving in our community. If you’re not yet a member, please consider joining us today.
Become a member: https://potomaclocal.memberful.com/join
Thanks for reading today’s Publisher’s Post. Visit PotomacLocalNews.com daily for the latest local stories, events, and updates that matter to you.
Uriah KiserÂ
Founder & Publisher
Potomac Local News
Welcome to Our New Locals Only Members!Â
A big thank you to our newest members for supporting local journalism:
- Melissa from Gainesville
- Tanya from Prince William
- Stephen from Woodbridge
- Tara from Fredericksburg
- Amanda from Woodbridge
- Dan from Montclair
- Michael from Lake Frederick
- Aisha from Richmond
- Thomas from Columbus
- Evelyn from Woodbridge
We’re thrilled to have you in the Potomac Local News community! Your support helps us continue delivering the in-depth local news that matters most to you. Thank you for being a part of our growing family!
At Potomac Local News, we go beyond the headlines to bring you in-depth coverage of the stories that shape our community. This week, we’ve examined the decisions and events affecting our region.
This Week’s Top Stories:
Prince William County School Board Faces Heated Debates
Tensions ran high as board members debated issues related to decorum, LGBTQ+ policies, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These discussions reflect ongoing divisions over education policy in the county.
Manassas Park Disbands 50th Anniversary Committee, Drawing Public Outcry
The city’s decision to dissolve its 50th Anniversary Planning Committee has left residents frustrated, with many questioning transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process.
Fredericksburg Unveils FY2026 Budget Proposal
City Manager Tim Baroody proposed a $136.75 million budget that includes a three-cent real estate tax increase to support public schools, infrastructure projects, and long-term financial stability.
Firefighters in Aging Stations, Wearing Old Gear: County Leaders Look to Upgrade
Prince William County Fire Chief Thomas LaBelle has outlined a comprehensive plan to replace outdated fire stations and upgrade firefighter equipment to improve safety and response times.
And Coming Next Week…
What sound do 1,455 cereal boxes make when they fall? Light thuds—and big cheers!
Students at Grafton Village Elementary School in Stafford filled the hallways to watch a giant cereal box domino chain collapse, marking the end of a two-week food drive. The winning 5th-grade class collected 162 boxes, earning them a pizza and popsicle party. All donations will go to the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, which serves over 46,000 people in our region.
Locals Get More!
These stories are just a glimpse of what we cover. Paid members get full access to all of our reporting—ensuring you stay informed on the news that matters most to your community.
Join today and unlock full access to Potomac Local News!
Thank you for supporting local journalism and being part of our growing community!
Uriah Kiser
Founder & Publisher
Potomac Local News
Dear Potomac Local News Community,
We want to take a moment to thank you for being part of Potomac Local News! Your support helps keep local journalism strong and ensures that the most important stories in our community are told.
A special welcome to our newest members:
- Katherine in Woodbridge
- Merchant in Haymarket
- Melissa in Gainesville
Your commitment to local journalism helps us keep Prince William, Stafford, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg informed and connected.
Not a member yet? Here’s what you’re missing this week:
- The Future of Jennie Dean Elementary – A proposal could transform the historic school building into a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Innovation Hub, offering vocational training in aviation, culinary arts, and more. But with a $13 million price tag, will it become reality?
- Stafford’s Eggcellent Eggventure Returns! – Families can explore local parks and attractions in a county-wide scavenger hunt featuring oversized eggs, QR codes, and exciting prizes. Will you complete the Ultimate Eggventure Challenge?
- Debate Over Prince William Landfill Hours – County officials are considering new hours and Sunday operations, but concerns over staffing, costs, and traffic delays are causing pushback. Will residents see expanded landfill access?
These stories and more are available in full for our members. Join today and never miss out on the latest local news!
Click here and become a member now.
Thank you for being part of our growing community. Your support ensures independent, in-depth journalism continues in our region.
Best,
Uriah Kiser
Publisher, Potomac Local News
I appreciate you taking some time out of your Sunday to read this. Our newsletter is the most personal and direct way to deliver the day’s news—no social media algorithms, no distractions, and no paywall (at least not for members).
This past week, I was a guest speaker at a small business roundtable in Haymarket. I was impressed by the turnout, made some great new connections, and spoke about the importance of keeping trusted local news alive in our communities. It also allowed me to reflect on my time growing up and delivering the old Potomac News into driveways in my Dale City neighborhood.
I also attended 1 Million Cups Prince William at CenterFuse in Manassas—a group I helped organize 12 years ago. This free, one-of-a-kind support group for entrepreneurs remains a great place to connect and learn. If you own a small business, I highly recommend checking it out.
A big shoutout to our courthouse reporter, Alan Gloss, for his diligent coverage of the Latoya Crabbe case. Last week, charges against Crabbe in the shooting death of her estranged husband were dropped, though new charges are expected soon. Gloss was there when Crabbe had an emotional reunion with her children—the first time she had seen them since last fall. It was our top-read story of the week.
Another of Gloss’s reports—the court ruling that ordered Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth’s office to pay a $22,000 fine for failing to respond to a public records request—was the second-most-read story.
Rounding out the top five most-read stories this week:
- Stafford County Public Schools welcome new leadership
- A 161-foot-tall sign installed at Fredericksburg’s Central Park
- A controversy involving the Belmont Bay HOA in Woodbridge
If you’re not a member, please consider joining for 100% access. It also ensures we can continue bringing you trusted local journalism—while saying goodbye to the paywall.
A warm welcome to our newest Potomac Local News members: Sophie from New York, Carlos from Manassas, Rebecca from Charlottesville, and Tara from Woodbridge! Thank you for joining our growing community of readers who support trusted, local journalism.
Your membership helps us deliver important news without distractions, paywalls, or social media interference. We’re grateful for your support and look forward to informing you about the stories that matter most to our region. Welcome aboard!
Do you want to tell us how we’re doing? Reply to this email or jump into our comments section on our website (which, for some reason, doesn’t get much use—so be bold and post your thoughts!).
Thank you for reading and for being part of our community.
Best,
Uriah Kiser
Founder & Publisher
Potomac Local News
Thank you for being a valued supporter of Potomac Local News. Your commitment to independent, local journalism allows us to continue reporting on the stories that matter most to our community.
This week, we delivered our members exclusive coverage of major local issues:
Is Stafford Changing the Rules for Data Centers?
Supervisors are considering new restrictions in industrial zones. What could this mean for future development? A public hearing is set for March 18.
Higher Taxes and Utility Bills in Manassas?
We were the first to report on the city’s proposed budget, which could raise property taxes and utility rates. How much more will residents pay? Key decisions are coming in March.
Secret HOA Meetings in Belmont Bay?
Woodbridge homeowners claim their HOA board held secret meetings about land deals, leading to a state complaint. What’s next for the community?
Dumfries a Mini National Harbor?Â
Town leaders envision a waterfront district to rival National Harbor. Could this project transform Dumfries? No timeline yet, but the vision is bold.
As small businesses continue shifting their advertising dollars to social media, your financial support of Potomac Local News is more critical than ever. Your membership directly funds the in-depth, fact-based reporting that informs our community.
If you haven’t already done so, please consider joining today. Your support makes all the difference.
Join us here: https://potomaclocal.memberful.com/join
Thank you for reading, supporting, and being part of local news that matters.
Best,
Uriah Kiser
Founder and Publisher
Potomac Local News
