Virginia State Senator Tara Durant (R) revealed reports of two additional intrusions at Quantico Marine Corps Base following the arrests of two men from Jordan who were in the U.S. illegally. Potomac Local News broke the story and told you the men were arrested after allegedly posing as Amazon delivery drivers and ramming the front gate of the military installation on May 3, 2023.

Durant said the additional incursions occurred on May 3, the same day two Jordanian nationals in the U.S. illegally posed as Amazon delivery men. “I heard about it from somebody I know who works at Quantico, and he first alerted me to the first breach,” said Durant. “He has since alerted me that there have been two more breaches that occurred on the same day. I don’t think that’s come out yet.”

The two men from Jordan, Hasan Y. Hamdan and Mohammad K. Dabous, attended their first hearing on July 22 at the Alexandria courthouse. Both men, accompanied by an Arabic translator, were charged with Class B misdemeanors for allegedly trespassing on a military facility, charges which carry up to six months in prison and a $5,000 fine. The judge supported conditions for release, and both men have been released, with their next hearings scheduled for September.

On May 22, Governor Glenn Youngkin penned a letter to President Joseph Biden requesting a full briefing about the incident. This request came 20 days after the breach and 12 days after Potomac Local broke the news of the attack. The governor has provided no new information following this request.

Durant mentioned her efforts to obtain more information about these breaches. “I connected him [Attorney General Jason Miyares], who was just so frustrated because there are a lot more attempts at breaches that are happening, and I don’t think that it’s out in the public sphere, and it should be.”

Potomac Local broke the story of the initial intrusion at Quantico, which followed days of pressing officials for information. Sources tell us one of the men is on the FBI terror watch list, something federal officials have not confirmed or denied. When asked about the terror watch list angle, Durant stated, “I’m hearing the same information, but I think we need to find out a lot more about these other attempted breaches. Are they testing to see where the weak points are and setting the stage for something that’s more nefarious?”

Quantico officials have not responded to a request to comment on this story.

Durant expressed support for Governor Youngkin’s request for answers: “I am grateful for it, and I encourage it. We need to get answers for it. I can’t confirm that I know any more about that type of information, but I certainly intend to keep pushing to find out more.”

Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) will ban personal wireless communication devices, including cell phones, during high, middle, K-8, and traditional school instructional periods starting in the upcoming school year. It joins Stafford County and Fredericksburg public schools in requiring students to turn off and store cell phones during instructional time.

Press release:

PWCS is excited to welcome students back to school on Aug. 19! To help prepare our families for the first day, below are 10 key things you need to know for a successful start to the 2024-25 school year. More details will be shared in the coming days and weeks:

Schedules
Elementary schedules will be available on Aug. 11, and secondary schedules, including K-8 and traditional schools, will be available on Aug. 14, in ParentVUE and StudentVUE.

Tax Free Weekend for School Supplies
The three-day Virginia Sales Tax Holiday is Aug. 2-4. Check your school’s webpage for supply lists.

Complete the annual Back to School Packet
The Back to School Packet will be available on Aug. 6 in ParentVUE. Please contact your student’s school if you do not have a ParentVUE account.

New Wireless Device Rules
Coming to high, middle, K-8, and traditional schools, use of personal wireless communication devices (cell phones) will be prohibited during instructional periods. More details will be shared soon.

New Bus Stops
As part of the transportation improvements announced earlier this year, many students may have new bus stops. Transportation information will be available in ParentVUE and StudentVUE on Aug. 12.

Free meals expanded to 24 more schools

Code of Behavior Updates
The PWCS Code of Behavior has been clarified that expulsion must be considered in the case of substance abuse offenses, weapons offenses, group assault, and assault on staff (as set forth in Virginia Code § 22.1-277.08). The updated Code of Behavior can be accessed from the Back to School Packet.

Important Health Information
Be sure your student has received required vaccinations.
PWCS has partnered with Hazel Health to provide quality mental health care services for all students at no cost to families. Families must opt-in for their student to receive services. More information will be shared in the coming weeks.

Communication Improvements
Coming this school year, based on feedback from parents and guardians, families will have an option to choose their preferred method of communication via an app, emails, and/or texts. Stay tuned for details.

Curriculum Updates
Virginia Literacy Act/English Language Arts – The Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) requires school divisions to develop a literacy plan to implement this school year. These enhancements will ensure success for all students.
Math Curriculum Update – The Virginia Board of Education updated the math Standards of Learning. PWCS will be implementing the new standards this school year.

The Quantico Train Station’s new construction will be completed by early 2025 and will feature a pedestrian bridge and extended platforms to improve transit efficiency and safety for the 6,000 daily passengers.

Press release

The Quantico Train Station’s new construction is scheduled to be completed before the start of 2025, improving the transit efficiency and commuter experience for the 6,000 daily passengers who use and pass through the station.

The improvements include a pedestrian bridge that sits above the tracks, leading pedestrians to all three platforms, which are also to be extended.
“It will be nice when they get it all done, and we don’t have to wait anymore at the crosswalk for trains coming through,” said George Ramsey, a MCCS Quantico Marine Corps Community Services employee on MCBQ and frequent train passenger. “There are many, many, many times I remember getting stuck on one side or the other because of a train you weren’t expecting to come through while waiting for a train.”

Virginia Railway Express Chief Engineer Dallas Richards explained many of its new features and how it will improve the safety for commuters and pedestrians.
“The bridge includes three staircases and three elevators which will help commuters get to all three platforms safely,” said Richards, and emphasized that “both extended platforms will allow commuters to board and deboard all eight passenger cars at the same time, which will be much safer and efficient.”
The project will also add a third track, improving the fluidity between the different organizations.

Originally built in 1953, the Quantico Train Station was totally renovated by the VRE in April of 2005, and these new renovations mark the largest change to alleviate commuter congestion.

“The third track reduces delays and will give VRE, Amtrak and freight rail, the capability of using all three tracks to limit congestion,” said Brett Sanders, the CSX lead engineer.

From the start, he mentioned, the success of the project couldn’t have happened without everyone working together.

Prince William County Deputy Chief Jarad Phelps has retired after over 28 years of service. Phelps has been appointed as the Chief of Police for the Jacksonville Police Department in North Carolina.

“Jarad has served the Prince William County community with the utmost distinction for nearly three decades,” said Prince William County Police Chief Peter Newsham. “I sincerely congratulate him on his second chapter and future success, and I know he will serve the community of Jacksonville with the same compassion and professionalism he has shown here.”

Phelps began his career with the Prince William County Police Department in 1996 as a patrol officer in the Operations Division. Over his career, he held various positions, including lieutenant and captain. As captain, he served as an evening shift commander, the Special Operations Bureau commander, and the Criminal Justice Academy Director. In 2017, he was promoted to major and later to deputy chief in 2019. He briefly served as acting chief in 2020 during a period marked by civil unrest and the coronavirus pandemic.

Phelps was in command when the department declared its first riot in 50 years. On May 30, 2020, a peaceful protest in response to the death of George Floyd turned violent. Protestors threw objects at drivers and police, leading to a riot in which several people were injured and businesses damaged.

Multiple police agencies responded, resulting in five arrests and injuries to four Prince William police officers. One officer required hospital treatment for a significant head injury. Phelps addressed county officials the following day, facing criticism from Democrats on the Board of County Supervisors for the use of tear gas to control the riot.

Phelps holds a master’s degree from George Mason University and an undergraduate degree from James Madison University. He has attended the FBI National Academy and other leadership and senior management schools.

Deputy Chief Jarad Phelps’ retirement is effective August 1, 2024.

 

Greg Cook, founder of Old Town Whiskey Club and Old Town Strong, died earlier this week of unknown causes.

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In this episode, I talk with Manassas City School Board member Sara Brescia about the evolving grading policies in the school district. Listeners will learn about the significant post-pandemic changes, including the controversial 50-100 grading scale and removing the 55 minimum grade provision. Sara Brescia provides a deep dive into the rationale behind these changes, the challenges faced, and the pushback from the community.

The conversation also touches on the broader implications of grading policies on student behavior and engagement, the importance of setting deadlines, and the balance between flexibility and accountability in education. Sara shares her vision for the future, emphasizing the need for productive dialogue and the importance of preparing students for the real world.

Additionally, the podcast explores the ongoing cell phone ban discussion, with Sara advocating for minimizing cell phone use in classrooms due to its negative impact on behavior and academics. The conversation highlights the complexities of implementing such policies and the support needed for teachers.

Finally, the episode covers the dynamics of school governance, teacher retention, and establishing a School of Excellence in Manassas. Sara’s candid reflections and future aspirations for the school district provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current educational landscape in Manassas City.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the Manassas City Public Schools and to hear firsthand from a school board member committed to enhancing student achievement.

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Uriah's Note: Members always get the first read of our original reporting. Thanks for your continued support. Fredericksburg Mayor Kerry P. Devine recently spoke with Potomac Local in a one-on-one interview, addressing the city's response to a train derailment and the prospect of new data centers. The CSX train derailment occurred on July 19, 2024, near Cobblestone Drive. Several rail cars derailed, damaging a garage adjacent to the Cobblestone Square apartment complex. Fortunately, no hazardous materials were involved, and there were no reports of injuries. CSX stated during a press conference that they did not know the whereabouts of the train crew during the derailment. The train engine had been experiencing trouble before the derailment, and the crew parked the Richmond-bound train next to Cobblestone Square. "I think it's a not unusual practice to do that if an engine has trouble, that they would park the cars and go get it fixed...but not ensuring that the brakes were all on, and not ensuring that that train was really secure, certainly, I hope wouldn't be [standard practice]. The residents of Cobblestone Square expressed frustration and nervousness. "They're frustrated, they're a little nervous, and certainly wanting answers," said Mayor Devine. However, she acknowledged that the swift removal of the derailed cars was a positive outcome. Here's the letter City Manager Timothy Baroody sent to CSX, seeking assurances from CSX that a similar derailment won't happen again. Devine also discussed the potential impact of the incident on future rail projects in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation continues to work to expand the state's passenger rail network and is eyeing the purchase of the Norfolk-Southern railroad's B-line, which runs through Manassas. When asked if this derailment may spur more conversations about the state purchasing additional track segments, Devine said, "I think that's a possibility. We aim to be at the table. We aim to be part of those discussions." According to the Fredericksburg Metropolitan Planning Organization, a third railroad track is already scheduled to be built in Fredericksburg and southern Stafford County. A public meeting for the project is scheduled for September, and we will interview FAMPO Director Ian Ollis later this week to learn more.

You are invited to join, learn more, and make your voice heard at the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority's public meeting on September 18th, 2024 at Conway Elementary School in Stafford County, VA!

Read more about these projects at https://t.co/15Ex8GAnJC pic.twitter.com/T49ThJel6V — FAMPO (@FAMPO_VA) July 29, 2024

Devine also addressed the prospect of data centers being built at Celebrate Virginia South, near the Fredericksburg Nationals baseball stadium. The City Council has ordered a study before any data center construction. Mayor Devine noted, "We're just looking at the consideration because we'd be foolish not to have it in discussions." At a recent City Council meeting, At-large member Will Mackintosh emphasized the potential employment benefits of data centers. "Data centers produce many fairly highly trained and well-paid jobs," he said. However, Mayor Devine was more cautious about the employment impact. "I don't think anyone's characterized [data centers] as a big employer," she said. "But no, I don't think we're talking about thousands of jobs ongoing." Regarding environmental concerns, Mayor Devine stated, "Some of the newer facilities obviously recirculate water use which is a huge issue for me. And just the esthetics... there are things that have come a long way since the first data centers were introduced." When asked if companies like Amazon or Microsoft had approached the city, Devine confirmed, "We have." However, she emphasized that the city has not committed to any firm to allow a data center to be built. She also said the city has not signed a non-disclosure agreement with any firm, which is common among data center projects. The centers, built-in campuses, most of which are multiple football fields in size and more than 70 feet tall, power the Internet. They use large amounts of electricity and water to cool the computer servers. They employ only a handful of people and are mostly stacked with computer servers. In recent years, there has been a proliferation of data centers in surrounding areas like Prince William County and, more recently, Stafford and Spotsylvania counties. Elected officials are drawn to the prospect of data centers in their communities because of the promise of higher tax revenues, with little or no public infrastructure investment. The centers don't generate vehicular traffic due to the few people they employ.

Bark + Boarding, a dog daycare and boarding business, has officially opened in Manassas. The business partnered with the Prince William Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, July 30. Ryan Fochler, founder of Bark + Boarding, shared insights into the company's growth and services during a recent interview. The company, which began as a dog-walking service, has expanded to offer a wide range of services, including daycare, boarding, grooming, training, socialization, and retail. "It's really pretty much everything now except veterinary services," Fochler explained. Fochler emphasized the company's commitment to pet owners who seek comprehensive care for their dogs. "We love to communicate. We always give a little communication cards. We want our clients to know if their dogs are having anything that we're seeing," he said. This approach ensures that both Barkin' Boarding and pet owners can collaborate effectively on the dogs' care. The onboarding process at Barkin' Boarding includes a thorough evaluation to ensure that dogs are a good fit for the facility. "We do have an eval process. So a dog will come in for doggy daycare... We really like to take the time with them. They start out in a zone by themselves and slowly work in dogs that we know are going to be a good fit before we merge the packs," Fochler explained. Located in a 9,500-square-foot facility at 10035 Dean Drive, next to the Manassas animal shelter, Bark + Boarding's newest location is set to enhance its grooming, socialization, and training services. "We're excited to really give clients the space they need for their dogs when they go on vacation or just hanging out for the day," Fochler said. Bark + Boarding has been operating in Bailey's Crossroads since 1999, but Fochler said they've been eyeing an opportunity to expand. The place had to be perfect. "There's been a lot of changes inside the Beltway, with a lot of areas no longer allowing outdoor space," Fochler said. "From experiences we've had with other jurisdictions, it's been extremely challenging, and Manassas City really seems to be much more business-friendly." Fochler said the city has been welcoming since the beginning of July and proposed a ribbon-cutting ceremony. "The welcoming of small businesses in this area has been awesome," Fochler said. "It is night and day different from some other areas that we've been looking to grow." And it's been an easier transition because they will be in the same facility as Waggin' Tails Junction, which closed earlier this year.  The business has retained many of the Waggin' Tails Junction clients. The Manassas location currently offers daycare, boarding, positive reinforcement training, and grooming services. A structured daycare and boarding program will roll out in the fall.

@barkandboarding opened its newest facility next to the @CityofManassas animal shelter on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Video from the @pwchamber ribbon cutting. Welcome to the neighborhood! pic.twitter.com/9v0klYi92P

— Potomac Local News (@PotomacLocal) July 31, 2024