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[Photo: Mike Salmon]
Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County have another medical option with the recent opening of the Harrison Crossing emergency clinic at Plank Road and Harrison Road.

The “Emergency Department at Harrison Crossing,” the 11,000-square-foot facility, is on the southern end of the Harrison Crossing Shopping Center and has two ambulance bays, a walk-in emergency entrance, and parking in the front and rear. Inside is an office for walk-in medical emergencies and a separate emergency clinic.

It is operated by Mary Washington Healthcare and staffed with board-certified emergency physicians and a team of emergency-trained nurses.

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A stopped train blocks Potomac Avenue in Quantico. [Photo: Mayor Kevin Brown]
Quantico Mayor Kevin Brown is still pushing for more than one way in and out of his tiny town — the only one in the U.S. located within the confines of a military base.

Brown says the town took to Facebook on Saturday, Feb. 10, to express its frustration. The town posted a photo of a train stopped on the tracks, blocking Potomac Avenue, the town’s entrance.

“Lives are being put at risk due to the closure of the Broadway Street Gate (Gate 3) and lack of access to the Martin Street underpass. Unsat. Not Semper Fidelis. RR blocked for over 30 mins,” a town staffer posted on Facebook.

Since the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani on Jan. 2, 2020, access to the town has been restricted to only those who live and work in the town. Last year, Potomac Local told you Quantico town officials had asked their neighbors on Quantico Marines Corps Base to reopen multiple streets that were closed after Solemani’s death; the Marine Corps ratcheted up security and required everyone entering the base to have a military ID or get special clearance.

Drivers must pass through the base to get to the town, which predates the base’s 1917 opening.

Brown told Potomac Local the town has not received a response from the Marines since posting to Facebook last weekend. Multiple requests for comment about this issue since the town made its post have also gone unanswered.

Potomac Avenue is the town’s main entrance and exit. It is a street with a view of the river that shares its name, and most town shops are on it.

Brown said he’s also trying to rally federal help from Senator Mark Warner, Tim Kaine, and Rep. Abigail Spanberger, the town’s congresswoman.

The railroad track at the town’s entrance carries Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express, and freight trains. The base is putting the finishing touches on improvements to the passenger train station.

Brown told Potomac Local last year that when trains stop on the tracks for extended periods, that spells problems for residents, preventing them from leaving. Brown said stalled trains also prevent emergency vehicles from entering to render aid promptly.

Before the restrictions, drivers could also enter the town on Broadway Street or use a railroad underpass on Martin Street.

Last year, base spokesman Capt. Michael Curtis told us Base Commander Col. Michael L. Brooks continues to work with the town and federal officials to ensure access to the town. While it’s not like it used to be before 2020 when civilians could show a Virginia license at the main gate and drive to town, the Marine Corps is working on a solution to fit the needs of residents and Marines.

About 600 people live in Quantico town.

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The Rose gaming resort and hotel proposed to open in Dumfries.

Dumfries Town Council approved the amended proffer agreement and memorandum of understanding between the town and Churchill Downs, owner and operator of The Rose Gaming Resort, which is under construction, six to one.

Under the new agreement, Churchhill Downs Group (CDG) would give the town $3.6 million, a one-time contribution in unrealized taxes due in 10 days, following the Special Town Council meeting on February 13, 2024, when the council agreed to the changes. Additionally, there is an additional $400,000 per month in lost tax revenue if the site does not open before August 1, 2024, as anticipated. The loss in tax income significantly impacted the town's finances and led to the implementing of an amended budget for the town, officials said.

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[Photo by Leon Wu on Unsplash]
Joseph Lombardi Makes Dean’s List at Georgia College & State University

Joseph Lombardi, a resident of Dumfries, has been recognized for his outstanding academic achievement. Lombardi made the Dean’s List in the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business and Technology at Georgia College & State University.

University of Delaware Recognizes Local Achievers

Several local students have been named to the University of Delaware Fall 2023 Dean’s List. Among them are:

  • Andrew Bean of Manassas
  • Emily Buckley of Gainesville
  • Evan Martin of Bristow
  • Maya Vydareny of Woodbridge

McDaniel College Student Explores Greece

Jacqueline Kuzma, a senior Mathematics major from Stafford attending McDaniel College, had the opportunity to participate in a study tour to Greece during Jan Term, enriching her academic experience.

Claude Moore Charitable Foundation Grants Over $2.5 Million

The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation recently distributed $2,553,570 in grants to nonprofit organizations primarily serving Loudoun County. These grants aim to support under-resourced populations and individuals living with disabilities, as well as fund nursing scholarships, literacy, and youth leadership programs.

The 2024 grants were initiated by invitation from The Foundation and include support for various organizations such as A Place to Be, Loudoun Literacy Council, Loudoun Youth, Inc., and many more.

Academic Achievements from Various Institutions

  • SUNY Cortland: Over 2,800 students earned recognition for academic excellence.
  • WPI: 2,299 undergraduate students achieved Dean’s List status, including James Kuhn, Keira Schoolcraft, and Tristin Youtz from Woodbridge.
  • University of Hartford: Campbell Pagel of Dumfries was named to the President’s and Dean’s List.
  • Shenandoah University: Alexandra Reid of Manassas was inducted into the Omicron Delta Kappa national leadership honor society.
  • Emerson College: Harley Novy from Dumfries participated in a comedic production at Emerson Stage.
  • Georgia Institute of Technology: Several local students graduated and earned academic honors, including Joshua Boisvert who made the Dean’s List.

Dean’s List and Academic Achievements at Various Universities

  • Eastern Mennonite University: Tatiana Ayala and Hailey Smith of Stafford were named to the Fall 2023 Dean’s List.
  • The University of Tampa: Ryan Kindel of Gainesville earned dean’s list honors.
  • York College of Pennsylvania: Several local students were recognized for academic achievement.
  • Albion College: Ellen Chown of Stafford made the Dean’s List.
  • Muhlenberg College: Shelby Mejia of Manassas achieved Dean’s List status.
  • Frostburg State University: Jessica Howie of Manassas received a Bachelor of Science degree.
  • Augustana College: Abigail Tegtmeyer of Manassas was named to the fall semester Dean’s List.
  • Hollins University: Several local students earned Dean’s List honors for the fall 2023 semester.

These achievements highlight local students’ dedication and hard work in pursuing academic excellence. Potomac Local congratulates these high achievers. Send us your local news

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In an exclusive follow-up to a story brought to you last month, new information has emerged regarding the case of a dog injured after being struck with a projectile.

According to Prince William police spokeswoman Renee Carr, after consultation with Animal Services, it has been determined that the dog is recuperating well and does not require extensive treatment, as once thought.

Reports from the county’s Animal Services indicate that the dog, whose name remains unknown, is continuing to progress in its recovery. Currently, efforts are underway to evaluate options for placing the dog with a suitable rescue organization or for adoption. Despite diligent efforts, neither the owner nor the dog’s identity has been established.

The incident unfolded on Saturday, January 13, at 8:30 a.m., when officers responded to a distress call in the 1500 block of Cherry Hill Road in Dumfries.

A concerned resident had discovered the dog, an American Bully estimated to be between one to three years old, with injuries consistent with being struck by a projectile. Prompt action was taken, and the injured animal was taken to a veterinarian for urgent medical attention.

While the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, the focus now shifts to ensuring the continued well-being of the dog and finding a suitable placement where it can receive the care and attention it deserves.

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The start of the construction for the H.L. Mooney Advanced Water Reclamation Facility-Wide Improvements Project, known as the Mooney Design-Build Project, signals a significant milestone for the Prince William County Service Authority.

With an investment nearing $200 million, this multi-year initiative is poised to revolutionize the plant’s wastewater treatment processes, paving the way for enhanced operational resiliency.

At the groundbreaking ceremony held at the Mooney facility in December 2023, key stakeholders, including Service Authority’s General Manager and CEO Calvin D. Farr, Jr., Director of Environmental Services & Water Reclamation Glenn Pearson, and Director of the Project Management Office Shannon Spence, shared their insights. Representatives from construction firms involved in the project, such as Ulliman Schutte Construction, HDR Inc., and AECOM, also attended the event.

Calvin Farr, General Manager of the Service Authority, emphasized the project’s historic significance, stating, “This project is a critical development for the Service Authority, and it’s the largest single project that we have ever undertaken, so we’re making history.”

Erin Hunt, President of Global Water Program at HDR Inc., underscored the project’s alignment with the Service Authority’s values, particularly in environmental leadership and sustainable operations, saying, “This project really capitalizes on the Service Authority’s key Areas of Excellence including, among others, environmental leadership, community engagement, continuous improvement and innovation, and sustainable operations.”

The Mooney Design-Build Project comprises 19 components, primarily focused on rehabilitating existing infrastructure. Notable upgrades include the construction of a new pretreatment facility, expansion and centralization of the odor control system, and various electrical and structural enhancements.

Addressing concerns about potential disruptions, Shannon Spence, Director of the Project Management Office, reassured stakeholders that construction activities would be contained within the H.L. Mooney AWRF property line, minimizing impacts on customers and neighbors.

Looking ahead, the completion of the Mooney Design-Build Project is expected to enhance the Service Authority’s ability to meet regulatory standards and ensure operational resiliency. By investing in aging infrastructure, the Service Authority aims to continue delivering treatment services, protecting the environment, and maintaining strong community partnerships.

The H.L. Mooney Advanced Water Reclamation Facility is 1861 Rippon Boulevard in Woodbridge.

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Get ready for the big game with Dixie Bones BBQ Super Bowl specials!

Join us this Saturday and Sunday to score some touchdown-worthy deals:

  • Half Rack Ribs (6 bones) – $17.95
  • 1 lb. smoked wings (12 – 14 wings) – $10.95
  • 1 Qt. Chili – $14.95

Don’t miss the flavor-packed goodness as you cheer on your favorite team! Swing by Dixie Bones BBQ in Woodbridge and make your Super Bowl celebration a delicious one! ORDER ONLINE

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After a brief setback due to cold weather, the much-anticipated Huntley Homecoming event is set to take place on March 30, 2024, in downtown Fredericksburg. The event, organized to celebrate the musical achievements of Michael Huntley, winner of season 24 of The Voice on NBC, promises a day of festivities and community spirit.

The homecoming festivities will commence with a Downtown Driving Procession Along Huntley’s Performance Venues, starting at 11 a.m. and concluding at 12:30 p.m. Spectators can expect a vibrant display of musical talent as they traverse downtown Fredericksburg.

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Delegate Josh Thomas (D-21, Prince William County) [Photo: Thomas’ Facebook page]
A bill introduced by Delegate Joshua Thomas (D-21, Prince William County), aimed at restricting the construction of data centers near state and national parks in Virginia, hit a roadblock in the House of Delegates subcommittee on Thursday. Despite Thomas’s plea to advance the bill, it was ultimately tabled, leaving supporters disappointed and frustrated, reports The Center Square.

“My district is hurting. This issue has torn apart our community,” Thomas lamented before the committee’s vote.

Kathy Kulick of the HOA Roundtable highlighted the contentious nature of the issue and emphasized the potential conflict between economic interests and environmental concerns. Kulick pointed out the influence and intimidation of the data center industry on localities, highlighting the need for state-level legislation to guide land use change requests.

“Localities are being overwhelmed by the enormous financial influence and intimidation of the industry,” Kulick told Potomac Local.

Chap Petersen, representing residents in a lawsuit against the Prince William Board of County Supervisors over the PW Digital Gateway development, echoed concerns about the data center industry’s overwhelming impact on rural areas. Petersen criticized the General Assembly’s inaction, emphasizing the environmental cost and the need for immediate legislative measures.

“The data center industry is overwhelming the Rural Crescent in Virginia. The environmental cost will be incalculable,” said the lawyer and former Democratic State Senator from Fairfax. “The General Assembly has done nothing for years. To defer the issue for ‘more study’ is a joke.”

The ongoing legal battle over the PW Digital Gateway development, approved by Prince William supervisors in December 2023,  underscores the high stakes. Residents, supported by organizations like the American Battlefield Trust, argue that approving massive data centers near historical sites like the Manassas Battlefield National Park would irreversibly alter the region’s character and damage its historical significance, Insidenova.com reports. 

The rezoning vote in December cleared the way for two companies, QTS and Compass Datacenters, Inc., to build the nearly 100-foot tall data center buildings on what has been billed as the world’s most significant data center complex, on nearly 900 acres next to the battlefield, a tourist magnet, and the site of the first major Civil War battle in 1861.

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