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!

Fredericksburg

First Friday kicks off fall fun with Scarecrow Fest in downtown Fredericksburg

By Uriah Kiser

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Downtown Fredericksburg is full of fall spirit as Scarecrow Fest returns now through October 31. The annual event transforms the city into a festive, family-friendly destination with creative displays, activities, and Halloween-themed events.

The Scarecrow Contest is already underway, featuring more than 30 handmade scarecrows on display outside local businesses and organizations. Visitors can pick up a map from participating spots or download one online, then vote for their favorite display through the end of the month.

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Manassas

Manassas School Board moves to revisit ‘50 floor’ grading policy after parent pushback

By Uriah Kiser
Members of the Manassas City School Board meet at City Hall on Sept. 25, 2025, where they voted to send the division’s grading policy back to the Policy Committee for revisions.

The Manassas City School Board will review its grading policy after parents and teachers voiced frustration that the division’s “50 floor” system allows students to coast instead of completing their work.

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Neighborhood Notes

Publisher’s Notes: From Taylor Swift to Helicopters in Blooms Park — Here’s What’s Happening

By Uriah Kiser

This newsletter is a fresh blend of our classic Publisher’s Post and the newer Neighborhood Notes. Stay tuned for Fun and News — your go-to for local happenings, things to do, and behind-the-scenes tidbits from the local news world. Enjoy!

Hartwell Capitol Ad Sees Huge Success on Potomac Local News

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Breaking News

Police identify victim in deadly shooting outside Alamo Drafthouse in Woodbridge

By Uriah Kiser

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Police are investigating a deadly shooting that took place late Wednesday outside the Alamo Drafthouse at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center.

Officers were called to the 15200 block of Potomac Town Place at 10:48 p.m. on October 2 and found two men with gunshot injuries. A 21-year-old man, later identified as Jasiya Ahmar Vaughn of Woodbridge, had been shot multiple times and was found on the sidewalk near the theater. First responders provided aid, but Vaughn died from his injuries at the scene.

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Newslinks

Former Stafford teacher files $1.5 million lawsuit against four students

By Uriah Kiser

Fredericksburg Free Press: A former Stafford County teacher has filed a $1.5 million lawsuit against four former H.H. Poole Middle School female students, alleging they assaulted her during a January 2024 brawl. 

Some of the students also faced criminal charges, but the outcome of their court hearings is not available since they are juveniles. 

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Prince William

New classes coming to PWCS: From Medical Detectives to App Creators

By Uriah Kiser

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – The Prince William County School Board voted unanimously on October 1, 2025, to introduce a slate of new courses for middle and high school students beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

At Porter and Pennington Traditional Schools, four new Project Lead the Way (PLTW) classes will be added to the curriculum. Sixth graders can take Design and Modeling, a hands-on course where students use computer-aided design programs, simulations, and 3D printers to build objects. Seventh graders will have the option of Medical Detectives, a lab-based class where they analyze vital signs, investigate disease outbreaks, and even dissect a sheep brain. For eighth grade, Automation and Robotics will focus on building and programming robotic systems, while App Creators will teach students the fundamentals of designing and developing mobile applications.

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Prince William

Firefighters’ new contract could mean higher taxes or cuts elsewhere

By Uriah Kiser
Prince William County's Fire & Rescue System Engine 23. [Courtesy of PWCFRS]

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Prince William County supervisors will decide on October 7 whether to approve an amended labor contract with county firefighters. This deal carries millions in new costs and could affect taxpayers.

The contract with Local 2598 of the International Association of Fire Fighters updates pay scales, specialty stipends, and referral bonuses for fire and rescue personnel. County staff estimate that the changes will add approximately $3 million in costs in fiscal year 2027 and increase to $5.8 million by fiscal year 2028.

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Prince William

Big vote ahead: Prince William Supervisors to revisit Kline property plan

By Uriah Kiser

Prince William County supervisors will take up a vote on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, to expand the study area around the controversial Kline Property, located at the corner of Prince William Parkway, Liberia Avenue, and Wellington Road, just outside Manassas.

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Features

Win Free Tickets to See the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Swing into Fredericksburg

By Uriah Kiser

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Potomac Local News is giving away two tickets to see the world-famous Tommy Dorsey Orchestra when it takes the stage at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, October 12, 2025. One winner will be chosen at random and notified by email. Click here to enter the giveaway.

The 15-piece orchestra, known as “The Sentimental Gentleman of Swing,” will bring silky-smooth swing, toe-tapping rhythms, and timeless ballads that defined an era. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Appetizers and drinks will be available, and Riverside is opening a space down front for those who want to dance along. Tickets are $55 online, and the show lasts 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.

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