Mauriah Church-Barbour, Author at Potomac Local News

Could Virginia Vote Earlier in 2028?

Published January 19, 2026 at 10:45AM

“Most of Virginia’s Democratic congressional delegation is making the case for Virginia to be one of the early primary states in the 2028 presidential race,” Virginia Scope reported. “According to the New York Times, the Democratic National Committee … has said that one state from each of four regions will hold nominating contests in the early window before Super Tuesday.”

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Manassas

Inside ARTfactory’s ‘Resonance’ Event

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 19, 2026 at 10:15AM

[Submitted Photo].

“Founded in 2023, the Onyx Art Group brings together artists whose diverse cultural perspectives inform a collaborative and dialogue-driven practice,” the post stated. “During the talk, participating artists will discuss their creative processes, the themes of resonance and connection within their work, and the role of art in transcending cultural and emotional boundaries.”

Schools

Stafford Schools Chief Joins State Council

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 19, 2026 at 9:15AM | Updated January 19, 2026 at 10:01AM

Superintendent, Dr. Daniel W. Smith[Submitted Photo].

“We’re proud to share that our Superintendent, Dr. Daniel W. Smith, has been appointed by the Governor to the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children,” Stafford County Public Schools announced. “This honor recognizes Stafford Schools’ strong partnership with military families, Marine Corps Base Quantico, and our commitment to supporting military-connected students across Virginia.”

The council works to address educational challenges faced by children of military families who frequently relocate, helping ensure consistent enrollment, placement, and graduation requirements across state lines. Stafford County is home to a large population of military-connected students due to its proximity to Marine Corps Base Quantico.

Fredericksburg

Malvina Rollins Kay sworn in after re-election to Fredericksburg School Board

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 13, 2026 at 12:31PM

[Submitted Photo]

Rollins Kay will continue representing Ward 4 on the Fredericksburg City School Board following her re-election and swearing-in ceremony held Jan. 8.

Kay has served on the Fredericksburg City School Board for more than three decades and has been repeatedly re-elected to the nonpartisan position, often without opposition. Her new term continues her long-standing role in overseeing city public schools, including participation in budget and policy decisions.

Stafford

Crews extinguish Twin Creeks Lane house fire in Stafford

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 13, 2026 at 12:25PM

[Submitted Photo]

“Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire, as well as search the structure,” the department stated. “The fire was marked under control in approximately 10 minutes.”

Fire officials said the two occupants evacuated before crews arrived and no injuries were reported. Additional units were used to shuttle water due to a lack of hydrants in the area. The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office is conducting a routine investigation. Fredericksburg Fire Department assisted on scene, while Quantico Fire & Emergency Services and Fauquier County Fire Rescue provided station coverage elsewhere in the county.

Business

Repealing Virginia right-to-work law could cost billions

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 13, 2026 at 12:24PM

Photo: Virginia Department of Historic Resources

“Repealing Virginia’s right-to-work law could lower the state’s economic output by tens of billions of dollars over the next decade,” The Center Square reported.

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Fredericksburg

Knights of Columbus mark 50 years of Religious Freedom Day in Fredericksburg

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 12, 2026 at 11:00AM | Updated January 12, 2026 at 1:47PM

The Knights of Columbus![Submitted Photo].

“The annual observance brought together community members, Knights, and local leaders to reflect on the importance of religious liberty and the freedoms protected under the First Amendment,” Fredericksburg Free Press reported. “This year’s event marked the 50th annual Religious Freedom Day celebration in Fredericksburg.”

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Prince William

Innovation Elementary earns VSBA Platinum Design Award

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 12, 2026 at 10:00AM

[Submitted Photo].

The Platinum Design Award recognizes excellence in educational facility design, highlighting schools that support innovative instruction and adaptable learning spaces. Innovation Elementary was honored among projects showcased statewide during the annual VSBA Exhibition of School Architecture.

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Features

Fredericksburg writer’s ‘Eagle Air Support’ idea gets off the ground

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 12, 2026 at 8:00AM

In the program, surplus air conditioners from the University of Mary Washington will be given to Fredericksburg-area residents in need. [Submitted Photo].

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Fredericksburg

Arrest made in deadly Courthouse Road hit-and-run

By Mauriah Church-Barbour

Published January 12, 2026 at 7:00AM

[Courtesy of Northern Virginia Police Cars via Instagram]

“Sheriff Roger L. Harris and the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office extend their deepest condolences to Mr. Anwar’s family and friends during this difficult time,” the office stated. “Their cooperation played a vital role in advancing this investigation and bringing justice for Sameer Anwar and his family.”

The crash occurred late Jan. 9 on Courthouse Road, where deputies found Sameer Anwar, 20, of Spotsylvania, deceased at the scene. Investigators say the SUV involved fled after the initial impact, while a second vehicle remained on scene and cooperated. On Jan. 10, Bryce Littlejohn, 24, of Spotsylvania, was arrested and charged with felony hit and run resulting in death, felony grand larceny, and misdemeanor reckless driving. He was remanded to the Rappahannock Regional Jail.