Uriah Kiser, Author at Potomac Local News

Virginia Welcomes 3 New Congressmen

Published January 6, 2025 at 11:28AM | Updated January 6, 2025 at 2:42PM

Vindman, McGuire, Subramanyam

(The Center Square) – Virginia has three new congressmen following the swearing-in ceremonies for the 119th Congress held at the Capitol in Washington on Friday.

Two Democrats and one Republican took office, making the commonwealth’s party delegation unchanged.

Fredericksburg

Eight Inches and Counting! Storm Dumps Heavy Snow on Region

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 6, 2025 at 11:16AM

Interstate 95 near Route 17 in Stafford County. [VDOT]

Kelly Hannon, spokesperson for VDOT’s Fredericksburg District, emphasized the challenges faced by crews during the storm. “Our teams have been making repeated passes since it started snowing around midnight,” Hannon said. “We’ve focused on major routes like I-95, Route 1, Route 17, and Route 610 to ensure access to critical areas, including public safety facilities.”

Send us your snow photos to [email protected], on X @PotomacLocal, or text to 571-989-1695

Podcast

Prince William County Prepares for Winter Storm | Interview with Prince William County Fire Chief Thomas LaBelle

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 6, 2025 at 5:00AM | Updated January 6, 2025 at 11:58AM

Prince William County, Virginia is bracing for a major winter storm, with heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and dangerously cold temperatures expected to impact the area. In this interview, Fire Chief Thomas LaBelle shares important safety tips and preparation advice to help residents stay safe during the storm.

Breaking News

Prince William County Government Offices to Close Monday Due to Weather Conditions

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 9:37PM

Prince William County government offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025, as officials anticipate potential impacts from adverse weather conditions. The decision was made to ensure the safety of residents and county employees during what is expected to be a challenging day for travel and operations.

The closure affects all county government buildings, including administrative offices, public libraries, community centers, and other public facilities. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather forecast and road conditions, taking precautions as necessary to remain safe.

Breaking News

Winter Storm Response in Fredericksburg

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 9:05PM

A Fredericksburg Regional Transit bus serves a bus stop at the Stafford County Courthouse. [Photo: Uriah Kiser/Potomac Local News]

Snow plowing will begin as soon as accumulation occurs, with priority given to main roads, including Route 1, Route 3, Fall Hill Avenue, Princess Anne Street, Caroline Street, and Lafayette Boulevard. Secondary streets will be addressed as conditions allow. Residents are urged to stay off the roads Sunday night and Monday to ensure crews and public safety personnel can operate without unnecessary obstacles.

Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) will operate on a 4-hour delay on Monday, January 6, due to inclement weather. Service may be further adjusted based on road conditions. Updates are available on the FXBGO! website or Facebook page.

Breaking News

Central Rappahannock Regional Library to Close Monday, January 6, Due to Weather

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 8:57PM

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) has announced that its locations will be closed on Monday, January 6, in anticipation of severe weather. Library officials decided to prioritize the safety of staff and patrons as forecasts predict hazardous conditions throughout the region.

CRRL serves the communities of Fredericksburg, Stafford County, Spotsylvania County, and Westmoreland County through its network of branches. The library system offers an array of services, including access to books, digital resources, educational programs, and community events. With its mission to provide opportunities for learning, growth, and connection, the CRRL has become a cornerstone for residents seeking knowledge and enrichment.

Breaking News

Stafford Government Shuts Down: Courts, Offices, Landfill Closed

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 8:50PM

Due to the winter storm affecting our region and expected significant snow accumulation, Stafford County offices, facilities, courts, public schools, and both locations of the R-Board/Regional Landfill (Eskimo Hill and Belman Road) will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025.

The Virginia Department of Transportation has urged motorists to stay off the roads due to hazardous conditions from snow and ice. The R-Board will monitor weather conditions and provide updates on their operating status through their website and social media channels. Emergency updates, links, and resources are available on Stafford’s emergency information page.

Breaking News

Quantico Marine Corps Base Closed January 6 Due to Severe Weather

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 6:57PM

Marine Corps Base Quantico will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025, as severe weather has prompted the installation to declare a Code Red operating status. This closure affects all non-essential operations, and only mission-essential personnel are required to report to work. Personnel are advised to contact their chain of command for specific instructions or further guidance.

Marine Corps Base Quantico, often referred to as the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps,” spans over 55,000 acres across Prince William, Stafford, and Fauquier counties in Virginia. The base is a critical hub for Marine Corps training and education, hosting the Marine Corps University, Officer Candidates School, and the FBI Academy. Its facilities and resources serve over 28,000 active duty, reserve, civilian, and contractor personnel, making it one of the most significant military installations in the region.

Breaking News

Prince William County Judicial Center Closed January 6 Due to Inclement Weather

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 6:48PM

Due to inclement weather, the Prince William County Judicial Center will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 6, 2025. This closure affects all courts at the Judicial Center, including the Circuit Court, General District Court, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

The Prince William County Judicial Center, located in Manassas, is a significant facility serving the legal needs of a county with a population of over 482,000. The center houses several courtrooms, offices for judges and clerks, and resources for public access to judicial services. Its size and capacity make it a central hub for legal proceedings in one of Virginia’s most populous counties.

Breaking News

Winter Storm Closes Prince William County Public Schools on January 6

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 5, 2025 at 4:45PM

Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), the second-largest school division in Virginia, announced the closure of all schools and offices for Monday, January 6, 2025, due to a Winter Storm Warning. The announcement, posted on the division’s official account on X, formerly known as Twitter, stated, “Due to Winter Storm Warning, all Prince William County Public Schools and Offices will be closed Code Red on Monday, January 6, 2025 (exception: Inclement Weather Employees). Weather conditions will be monitored throughout Monday, and an update will be provided as needed.”

The closure affects over 90,000 students enrolled across the division’s 100 schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools and specialty programs. PWCS serves a diverse and growing population, providing academic, athletic, and extracurricular opportunities for students in Prince William County and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park.