Author: Uriah Kiser

I'm the Founder and Publisher of Potomac Local News. Raised in Woodbridge, I'm now raising my family in Northern Virginia and care deeply about our community. If you're not getting our FREE email newsletter, you are missing out. Subscribe Now!

Prince William

Mayor: Flooding likely from the Occoquan River, Ballywhack Creek

By Uriah Kiser

Tropical Storm Debby is expected to bring two to three inches of rain, possible tornadoes, and wind gusts of 40-50 mph to our area. Significant inland flooding from the Occoquan River and local creeks such as Ballywhack Creek is likely. Occoquan Town staff prepare for the storm by stocking emergency materials and cleaning drainage grates. At the same time, residents are advised to exercise caution, report power outages, and stay alert for potential flash flooding and downed power lines.

From Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta:

Go to Mayor: Flooding likely from the Occoquan River, Ballywhack Creek Read more
Business

Home2Suites Extended Stay Hotel to be Built in Manassas

By Uriah Kiser

The city of Manassas has finalized an agreement to sell a parcel of land to Manassas Hotel Venture Too, LLC, paving the way for constructing a new Home2Suites extended-stay hotel.

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Features

WoodbridgeNaz Church to Reopen Food Pantry with Ribbon-Cutting and Free Grocery Distribution

By Uriah Kiser
WoodbridgeNaz church's food pantry under construction in April 2024 [From the church's Facebook page]

Press release:

WoodbridgeNaz (a Church of the Nazarene) is pleased to announce the grand reopening of the Woodbridge Nazarene Food Pantry Aug.13 featuring two events.

Go to WoodbridgeNaz Church to Reopen Food Pantry with Ribbon-Cutting and Free Grocery Distribution Read more
Breaking News

Updated: Two Dead in Dumfries Shooting

By Uriah Kiser
[Scott Rodgerson/Unsplash]

Death Investigation – On August 7 at 9:56PM, officers responded to a residence located in the 1900 block of Fort Monroe Cr in Dumfries (22026) to investigate a death. When officers arrived at the home, two individuals, a 33-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman, were located inside the residence suffering from gunshot wounds. Both parties were known to one another and pronounced dead on scene. At this time, the incident appears isolated to the residence and there is no active threat to the community. The identities of the deceased will be released pending next-of-kin notification. More information will be released when available. Anyone who may have information that can aid in the investigation is asked to contact the police. The investigation continues.

Original post 11:58 p.m. — A shooting occurred in the 1900 block of Fort Monroe Court in Dumfries, resulting in the deaths of two people in Williamstown. Police were called to the scene at 9:56 p.m. Upon arrival, authorities pronounced the victims dead.

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Fairfax

Update on Ft. Belvoir Security Changes: Share Your Experiences

By Uriah Kiser

Fort Belvoir has updated its gate access control policies, introducing new measures for deliveries, identification requirements, and visitor passes. These changes aim to enhance security and streamline entry procedures for various groups.

Have you been affected by the recent changes at Fort Belvoir? Share your experiences with us.

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News

Fredericksburg Prepares for Tropical Storm Debby

By Uriah Kiser
Overlooking Fredericksburg, the Chatham Bridge, and the Rappahannock River.

Press release:

Tropical Storm Debby is currently tracking north from the Carolinas into Virginia. The storm system is likely to bring heavy rain into the Fredericksburg area off and on, beginning mid-morning Thursday and continuing through mid-day Friday. There is also a moderate chance of thunderstorms or wind gusts, which could lead to downed trees or power lines. Current forecasts are calling for 3-5 inches of rain, with the highest impact on Thursday evening. Be prepared for potential flash flooding on Friday.

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Prince William

Classroom Cell Phone Ban to Take Effect in Prince William County Schools

By Uriah Kiser
Photo: Prince William County Public Schools

Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) will implement new guidelines restricting the use of cell phones and wireless communication devices in classrooms for the 2024-25 school year. The guidelines aim to create an environment conducive to focused learning, minimize distractions, and promote face-to-face social interactions among students.

Under the new guidelines, all wireless communication devices, including earbuds, must be silenced and stored away during the school day for students in middle, traditional, and K-8 schools. Dual-purpose watches may be worn, but wireless and cellular features must be turned off. High school students must be silent and store their devices during instructional periods. However, they may use their devices during lunchtimes and passing periods, with usage prohibited in restrooms and locker rooms.

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Virginia

Gov. Youngkin Implements Comprehensive Election Security Reforms

By Uriah Kiser
Gov. Glenn Youngkin talks with voters at National Night Out in Spotsylvania County.

Governor Glenn Youngkin issued Executive Order 35, codifying his administration’s election security procedures, which include stringent ballot security, thorough counting machine testing, and rigorous voter list maintenance.

Press release:

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