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

George Mason University Science Center Seeks Funding for New Dock and Boat

By Uriah Kiser
Dr. Chris Jones, the academic director of the Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center, shows a boat that, if purchased, will help get students study conditions in the lower Potomac River.

George Mason University’s Potomac Science Center in Woodbridge is raising funds for a new dock and a boat to enhance its environmental research and education efforts. Dr. Chris Jones, the academic director of the Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center, discussed the initiative at The Health of Our Waterways Gala event on June 28, 2024, held at the science center in Belmont Bay.

The new dock will enable students and researchers to access the Potomac River for hands-on learning experiences. Dr. Jones emphasized the importance of fieldwork, stating, “Rather than just giving lectures or showing videos about sampling and studying aquatic organisms in their habitat, we go out and collect them, experience them, make measurements in the field, and demonstrate the concepts that they’ve learned in lab and lecture in the real world.”

Go to George Mason University Science Center Seeks Funding for New Dock and Boat Read more
News

Driver Rams Motorcycle, F-150, Faces Attempted Murder Charge

By Uriah Kiser

Rome Washington, of South Carolina, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including attempted murder, DUI, reckless driving, and felony hit and run after causing a series of intentional crashes on Richmond Highway and leading police on a high-speed chase. He was taken into custody without injury after a PIT maneuver by Sgt. Hurt ended his rampage and is currently held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

More from the Stafford sheriff’s office:

Go to Driver Rams Motorcycle, F-150, Faces Attempted Murder Charge Read more
News

Spotsy deputies takedown homicide suspect from Woodbridge

By Uriah Kiser
Morris

A Woodbridge man suspected of shooting and killing a 52-year-old man was arrested last night in Spotsylvania County.

On June 30, at 9:07 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the 5300 block of Holley Oak Lane for a 911 text call. 9-1-1 dispatchers were able to relay information to deputies by researching information associated with the residence, that a suspect wanted for homicide from Frederick County may be inside the home. Deputies observed an individual who was positively identified as the wanted subject. Terrance Lee Morris, 38 years of age from Woodbridge, was arrested on Frederick County’s 2nd-degree murder warrant. Morris was incarcerated under no bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Go to Spotsy deputies takedown homicide suspect from Woodbridge Read more
Prince William

Ogle Harris Way unveiled in Occoquan

By Uriah Kiser

Led by Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta, the ceremony included remarks by Representative Abigail Spanberger, read by a staff member, in addition to a tribute by Tamika Joy Harris-Russell, a descendant of Ogle Harris. Members of the Harris family were also invited to share stories and memories.

“Ogle Harris and his extended family were a cornerstone of Occoquan’s commercial and social community, and at the heart of the town’s African-American community, for the first 75 years or more of the 20th century,” said Mayor Porta. “It was an honor and pleasure to be able to recognize them for their contributions to our history,” he continued.

Go to Ogle Harris Way unveiled in Occoquan Read more
Prince William

Dale City man headed to prison after he raped, drugged victims

By Uriah Kiser
Oritz Guardado

Balmore Ortiz Guardado, 36, of Dale City, will spend at least 35 years in prison after Prince William County Circuit Court Judge Kimberly A. Irving sentenced him to a life sentence. Guardado was charged with drugging and raping women and girls.

From Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Amy Ashworth’s office:

Go to Dale City man headed to prison after he raped, drugged victims Read more
News

We asked the candidates for Manassas City Council about affordable housing

By Uriah Kiser

As we get closer to the start of early voting for the Fall 2024 election, Potomac Local News is dedicated to informing the community about candidates vying for one of three open seats on the Manassas City Council and the mayor’s seat.

To help voters make an informed decision, we are launching a new feature series, “One-Question Manassas City Council Candidate Survey.” This series will run throughout the campaign season, offering insights into each candidate’s stand on key issues affecting our city.

Go to We asked the candidates for Manassas City Council about affordable housing Read more
Business

New Podcast Episode: Resilience and Community Spirit with Barbara Biddle of District Hemp

By Uriah Kiser

We’re excited to share our latest Potomac Local podcast episode featuring Barbara Biddle, the owner of District Hemp. In this insightful conversation, Barbara recounts the emotional journey of losing their original storefront due to the demolition of the Old Town Inn and the subsequent challenges of reopening at their new location at 9417 Main Street, downtown Manassas.

Barbara delves into the significant regulatory changes that impacted District Hemp, including the introduction of SB903 and how these changes have increased operating costs and limited product availability. Despite these hurdles, Barbara shares how the unwavering support from the Manassas community was pivotal in expanding District Hemp to Leesburg and Washington, DC.

Go to New Podcast Episode: Resilience and Community Spirit with Barbara Biddle of District Hemp Read more
News

City Hall Renovations Complete, Costs Higher Than Anticipated

By Uriah Kiser
Manassas City Hall

Manassas City Hall has reopened after significant renovations.

The building, which had remained unchanged since 1987, now features upgraded windows, an HVAC system, plumbing, an elevator, and reconfigured office space. The renovation project, initiated in 2014, cost $15.9 million and included a new roof and generator installed in 2021.

Go to City Hall Renovations Complete, Costs Higher Than Anticipated Read more
View More Stories