Elizabeth Guzman, a Democratic candidate for the House of Delegates, seeks to reclaim a legislative seat in the 22nd District, currently held by Republican Ian Lovejoy. Guzman, who last ran for office in 2023 in a contentious Democratic Primary for the Virginia State Senate, narrowly lost to State Senator Jeremy McPike (D-29, Prince William, Stafford) by just 50 votes.
2023 Democratic Primary Results:
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NOVEC sent its crew of six men, pictured above, on Jan. 7 to work for three days with SEC, which serves more than 59,000 people. The recent winter storm, according to a NOVEC press release, left 28,000 in the area without power.
“It was good to know we were helping people,” Jake Till, one of NOVEC’s lineworkers, said. “It’s a small, close-knit community. The lineworkers at Southside appreciated our support.”
The men worked mainly in the rural towns of Altavista and Bedford. They worked nearly 16-hour days in freezing temperatures, navigating the poor road conditions and ice.
Mark DeChristopher, NOVEC’s manager of system construction, said the cooperative was monitoring the needs of other cooperatives in the area to see if they needed assistance.
“Electric coops from VMDAEC [Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives] remain in constant contact and discuss the potential need for mutual aid to assist in restoration efforts,” DeChristopher said.
The crew returned to the area on Jan. 10 following three days of hard work with the SEC crews.
Fire investigators are still searching for answers in two recent fires that caused significant damage in Fredericksburg and Woodbridge.
In Fredericksburg, the December 5 blaze at Eagle Village Shopping Center began in the warehouse of Play It Again Sports and quickly spread, destroying multiple businesses. Despite extensive efforts, investigators have been unable to determine the fire’s cause.
Updated: The Fire Marshal will continue to speak to witnesses should anyone have further information. Camera footage taken shortly after the fire was discovered has been reviewed, but no security cameras were available to assist the investigation. Officials also stated that there is no evidence of unauthorized entry into the building prior to the fire’s discovery, according to a city spokeswoman.
Meanwhile, a January 21 townhouse fire in Woodbridge displaced two residents after unattended cooking sparked flames. Working smoke detectors alerted the occupants, allowing them to escape safely. Both incidents highlight the importance of fire safety and preparedness as investigations into the causes continue.
Meanwhile, in Woodbridge
In the early hours of January 21, 2025, a townhouse fire displaced two residents in the 2800 block of Gloucester Court. Firefighters arrived just after 2:44 a.m. to find smoke showing from the residence.
The fire began when one of the occupants, who had been cooking in the kitchen, fell asleep. Fortunately, functioning smoke detectors alerted the resident, who quickly assisted another adult out of the home. Both individuals were treated for non-life-threatening injuries and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
The fire was quickly extinguished, but the building was deemed unsafe to occupy by the Building Official, displacing the two residents. It is unclear whether the Red Cross is providing assistance.
The Fire Marshal’s Office determined that unattended cooking was the cause of the fire. Officials emphasized the importance of working smoke detectors, crediting them with preventing a potentially fatal outcome.
These two incidents serve as reminders of the importance of fire safety and preparedness. Residents are urged to ensure their smoke detectors are operational and to never leave cooking unattended. For additional fire safety tips and resources, visit your local fire department’s website.
In a pivotal discussion during the January 21, 2025, meeting, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors approved funding measures for a new fire station in the Brentsville District, addressing a pressing need for expanded emergency services. The debate revolved around whether to utilize proffer funds—developer-contributed resources earmarked for public infrastructure—or tap into the county’s fire levy fund.
The Funding Debate
Brentsville District Supervisor Tom Gordy initiated an amendment to the funding resolution, proposing the use of Brentsville District fire proffers “to the greatest extent possible” before considering the fire levy fund. With $3 million available in Brentsville fire proffers, Gordy emphasized aligning these restricted funds with their intended purpose: supporting fire and rescue services.
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Looking to add a little extra love and excitement to your life? Meet Luna and Roisin, a delightful duo of bonded Chihuahuas who are sure to win your heart!
Luna, the fabulous 7-year-old, and her younger sister, Roisin, a sprightly 5-year-old, are inseparable and ready to find their forever family. These two pint-sized pups come as a package deal, bringing twice the cuteness, cuddles, and companionship to your home.
Why settle for one when you can double the adorable? Luna and Roisin are the perfect pair for someone looking for love in a small package.
The dynamic duo is currently being cared for at the Prince William County Police Department’s Animal Services Bureau near Manassas.
- Location: 14807 Bristow Rd., Manassas, VA 20112
- Phone: (703) 792-6465
- Email: [email protected]
If you’re ready to meet Luna and Roisin and see if they’re the perfect addition to your family, contact the shelter today or stop by during visiting hours.
Don’t miss out on the chance to bring these two lovable pups into your life!
- [Bee Calder via Unsplash]
Monday was the late Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, and many local governments and organizations closed in honor of the civil rights leader’s service. Here’s how they, along with elected officials, honored him on social media.
Today we commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King’s life and the positive impact his legacy continues to have on so many. We remember him for his timeless values and vision that should be celebrated and embraced every day. #MLKday pic.twitter.com/cRr5IkUBnN
— Virginia American Water (@vaamwater) January 20, 2025
Happy MLK, Jr. Day! ? Today, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as we reflect on his impactful work for civil rights and equality. Stafford Gov. offices and courts are closed. Landfill is open. More: https://t.co/TvtoK7VSxa #MLKDay
— Stafford County (@staffordvagov) January 20, 2025
Celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. not just today but every day: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” pic.twitter.com/pLSUXqlrNf
— Fairfax County Government ?? (@fairfaxcounty) January 20, 2025
Today, let’s celebrate the life and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. pic.twitter.com/5FJvX4UtuZ
— Loudoun Co. Govt. (@LoudounCoGovt) January 20, 2025
? Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — a leader whose vision of equality, justice, and unity continues to inspire us all.
Let’s celebrate his dream by spreading kindness and standing for justice and equality while building even stronger Town. pic.twitter.com/XMcXD7zrD8— Dumfries, Virginia (@DumfriesTownVA) January 20, 2025
Honoring Dr. King’s legacy reminds us of his commitment to justice, equity, & service. Service means ensuring no one is left behind. In Prince William County, let’s continue building bridges and supporting those in need. “The first function of community is support.” – MLK #MLKDay
— Andrea Bailey (@AndreaBaileyVA) January 20, 2025
Prince William County honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. pic.twitter.com/JbIpXJxg5g
— Prince William County (@pwcgov) January 20, 2025
In honor of #MLKDay, our office is closed to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy. Together, we strive for justice and equality for all. ?? Visit https://t.co/F1Fp4AxxAF for regular hours! #JusticeForAll ? pic.twitter.com/imQoH5ojpL
— Jacqueline Smith, Clerk of Circuit Court (@PWCCircuitCourt) January 20, 2025
One of my favorite quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”
Today, we can honor his legacy by working to build a more just future.
Because while progress takes time, it is always worth fighting for. pic.twitter.com/iG84DHFfax
— Eugene Vindman (@YVindman) January 20, 2025
Today, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering fight for justice and equality. Let his dream inspire us to build a more just world. pic.twitter.com/0xBG6ye43s
— Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) (@RepSuhas) January 20, 2025
— Mark Warner (@MarkWarner) January 20, 2025
Supporters of Donald J. Trump gathered in Haymarket on January 20, 2025, to celebrate the inauguration of the 47th U.S. President at a watch party hosted by the Bull Run Republican Women’s Club.
The sold-out event, held at Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano, drew attendees from across Prince William County and as far away as Peru. Organized under the leadership of Carol Fox, the watch party was described as a joyous occasion that brought local Republicans together to celebrate and enjoy the historic moment.
“The event was a chance to bring Republicans together and have fun watching the inauguration,” said Fox. Adding to the festivities, a dance contest to the tune of “YMCA” delighted guests, with prizes awarded for the most Trump-inspired dance moves. Proceeds from the event will support the Bull Run Republican Women’s Club’s college scholarship program.
Jeff Fuller, a member of the executive board of the Prince William County Republican Committee, praised President Trump’s inaugural address. “It was no-nonsense and forward-looking,” Fuller said, reflecting the sentiments of many attendees.
The Prince William County Republican Committee commended the Bull Run Republican Women’s Club for organizing the celebration and creating an event that energized the community and raised funds for a worthy cause.
Prince William Times – “Landowners who want to sell their properties for the Prince William Digital Gateway data center development and are suing Prince William County over their higher real estate tax bills were recently dealt a blow in court when a judge ruled against their case.
But they might have a Plan B, thanks to a bill sponsored by state Sen. Jeremy McPike.”
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors will convene on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 2 p.m. at 1 County Complex Court in Woodbridge for a packed agenda that includes significant decisions on land development and state legislation. The meeting is open to the public.
Woodbridge Land Development
Supervisors are expected to approve $250,000 to hire consultants to determine the best use for 21.85 acres of land in Woodbridge, previously considered for an indoor sports and recreation center. The funding from the Economic Development Opportunity Fund will support planning for a vibrant mixed-use community hub. The land is part of a larger 70-acre property targeted for an indoor sports venue, focusing on creating live-work-play environments and generating tax revenue.
Legislative Review
In a first-of-its-kind move, the Board will spend considerable time mulling over nearly 40 bills currently before the Virginia General Assembly. These bills address a wide range of topics, including:
- Clean Energy: HB 36 proposes studying barriers to clean energy purchases by local governments.
- Transportation and Safety: HB 462 calls for expanded tractor-trailer parking along major corridors, and HB 2041 focuses on speed safety camera placements.
- Data Centers: Multiple bills, including HB 1601, SB 899, and HB 2026, address issues like energy use, noise abatement, and proximity to parks and schools.
- Affordable Housing: HB 1701 and SB 2603 propose incentives and zoning changes to expand housing opportunities.
- Environmental Initiatives: HB 2050 introduces a program to reduce PFAS in the Occoquan Reservoir, while SB 839 focuses on by-right multifamily development in commercial zones.
The Board’s deliberations aim to ensure that local perspectives are represented in state policymaking, reflecting priorities such as economic growth, environmental preservation, and community safety.
Stay tuned to Potomac Local News for updates on the outcomes of this meeting.
