Uriah Kiser, Author at Potomac Local News

Mid-Air Collision Over Potomac River Involving PSA Airlines Flight and Military Helicopter: Rescue Efforts Ongoing

Published January 29, 2025 at 10:30PM | Updated January 30, 2025 at 9:02AM

A mid-air collision occurred Wednesday evening over the Potomac River involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, operating as American Airlines Flight 5342, and a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter. At least 30 bodies have been recovered so far.

The crash occurred around 9 p.m. local time while the Bombardier CRJ700 approached Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on its flight from Wichita, Kansas. The collision prompted a large-scale rescue operation, with more than 300 first responders deployed.

News

A bill to help prisoners regulate temperatures has been advancing through Virginia’s legislature

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 9:45PM

“I’ve never been so close to madness in my life, because there’s nothing you could do to shake the heat,” Berryman said in an interview.

Features

Kings Dominion Scraps WinterFest for 2025, Sparks Backlash from Season Pass Holders

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 9:36PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:50AM

[Photo: Kings Dominion]

The cancellation, confirmed by WWBT-TV, comes after the event mysteriously did not appear on the park’s annual event schedule, which was released on Wednesday, January 29. Initially, Kings Dominion promised that admission to WinterFest would be included with the purchase of a 2025 season pass. The sudden absence of the event raised concerns among fans, prompting the park to address the matter publicly.

Kings Dominion will open for its regular season on March 29, 2025, and will kick off its 50th anniversary celebrations. The park will highlight milestone attractions, including the debut of Rapterra, a new roller coaster, and host events such as A Golden Summerbration, Halloween Haunt, Oktoberfest, and Tricks and Treats. These events are designed to provide thrilling and memorable experiences for all ages.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg Data Center Debate Heats Up: Concerns Grow Over Transparency and Environmental Impact

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 4:55PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:50AM

Fredericksburg City Hall

The ongoing debate over the construction of data centers in Fredericksburg took center stage during the City Council meeting on January 28, 2025, with residents and council members expressing mounting concerns about the potential environmental consequences and the lack of transparency in the approval process.

At the heart of the controversy is the city’s aggressive timeline for approving zoning changes and facilitating the development of new data centers. Local residents have voiced their concerns about the environmental impact of such large-scale projects, particularly in areas close to residential neighborhoods and natural resources like the Rappahannock River. While proponents argue that data centers could bring significant economic benefits, critics worry that the city is rushing to approve projects without fully understanding or addressing the long-term consequences.

Originals

Stafford Schools Seek Additional Funding Amid Rapid Growth and Increasing Needs

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 4:39PM | Updated February 12, 2025 at 12:58PM

Stafford County Public Schools’ new superintendent says the division is facing significant financial challenges as it prepares for continued growth in student enrollment and increasing demand for specialized services. In a presentation at the Stafford County School Board meeting on January 28, Dr. Daniel Smith unveiled the school system’s funding request for fiscal year 2026 (FY26), which calls for additional resources to support its expanding student body and its growing need for special education services.

Stafford County, one of Virginia’s fastest-growing localities, has seen student enrollment grow from about 2,000 students to 32,000 students—19.2% of the county’s total population. With a projected increase of 6,200 students over the next decade, SCPS says it needs to meet the rising demand for educational resources, staff, and facilities. As the county’s largest employer, with over 5,400 employees, the school division is integral to the community’s economic and social fabric, underscoring the need for investment in education.

News

Virginia lawmakers react to President Trump’s federal spending freeze

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 4:15PM

The Trump administration’s latest move to freeze payments on several federal programs has sparked alarm among Virginia Democrats, who are questioning how the halt might impact critical funding, reports Insidenova.com.

“I am concerned that yesterday we learned that the Trump administration is pausing federal grants,” state Sen. Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, posted on X. “We have asked the Secretary of Finance in Virginia to inform us how this impacts our current budget and cash flow.” Lucas is chair of the Virginia Senate Finance & Appropriations Committee.

Pets

Meet Max: A Loving Collie Mix in Need of a Forever Home

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 3:23PM

If Max doesn’t have the most adorable smile, we don’t know who does! This affectionate collie mix has been waiting months at the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter with minimal attention, which is surprising given his sweet personality. Max loves anyone who will give him affection—he’s a big fan of hugs and enjoys showing off his intelligence by responding to commands and walking well on a leash.

Max is best suited for leash walks and a home with a secure, adequate fence. In his previous home, he had a habit of escaping, likely due to a lack of stimulation. As a working breed, Max thrives when he has mental and physical exercise. Whether it’s puzzle toys, interactive games, or an active lifestyle, he needs engagement to stay happy.

Fredericksburg

Hundreds Attend First Stafford Tourism & Business Marketing Summit

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 3:18PM | Updated January 31, 2025 at 1:36PM

Greg Kihlström, a best-selling author and consultant specializing in marketing technology and digital transformation, was the keynote speaker at the inaugural Stafford Tourism & Business Marketing Summit at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center.

Small business owners and marketing professionals from across Virginia gathered in Stafford County on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, for the inaugural Stafford Tourism & Business Marketing Summit at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center.

The one-day, free event focused on digital marketing, branding, and artificial intelligence, providing attendees with insights into how businesses can enhance their outreach and advertising strategies. The summit featured a keynote address by Greg Kihlström, a best-selling author and consultant specializing in marketing technology and digital transformation.

News

Virginia car tax credit hits dead end before Senate panel

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 2:26PM

At the crack of dawn on Tuesday, a Democratic-led Senate subcommittee rejected or delayed several of Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s signature tax cut proposals, opting instead to fold them into ongoing budget negotiations or disregard them altogether, Virignia Mercury reports.

The Senate Finance Resources subcommittee, chaired by Sen. Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, killed or tabled measures ranging from phasing out Virginia’s unpopular car tax to nixing a proposal that would exempt service tips from the state income tax and extending the state’s higher standard deduction and a partially refundable earned income tax credit (EITC).

News

Value City Furniture Opens in Central Park

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2025 at 2:24PM

Value City Furniture has opened its new store at 1731 Carl D. Silver Parkway in Fredericksburg’s Central Park shopping center. The company relocated its former store at 3545 Plank Road in Spotsylvania County, reports the Fredericksburg Free Press.