Potomac Local broke the news that the store was closing on March 2, 2024, prompting discussion in our website comment section and social media about what should replace the big-box electronics store that opened 16 years ago.
Nearly 220 people responded. We received snarky responses, like “something we don’t already have three of in Woodbridge or Fredericksburg,” data center, to some civically-minded suggestions like a community center that would double as a mass inoculation facility.
In an exclusive interview with Will King, AI Strategist and founder of MF Growth, Potomac Local News uncovers the insights that will take center stage at Stafford County’s Beer & Business event on February 7. The event promises a unique exploration of AI’s integration into businesses, offering a blend of valuable information and networking opportunities.
King, drawing from his background in psychology and a Master’s Degree in human factors, shared perspectives on the transformative power of AI in the workplace, and he emphasized its role in marketing. King underscored the challenges faced by small business owners who may lack professional copywriting skills, stating, “If you’re a small business owner, the likelihood that you are a professional copywriter is just really low,” said King.
Punxsutawney Phil saw didn’t see his shadow yesterday, and apparently, so neither did his cousin in Virginia, Arthur, who is friendly with Fredericksburg police. Spring is on the way.
Hello and welcome to the Publisher’s Post for Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024. I hope your weekend is off to a great start. It’ll be cold and sunny today. Water’s End Brewery has your weekend forecast and your first look at the start of next week.
Loveless commended the proactive response from the landlord, Rick Whealen, and the dedication of officers like Lt Plourde, stating, “Lt. Plourde constantly walks the beat and always makes a point to pop into the store to ensure all is well. His ‘feet on the street’ approach is a crucial part of our community’s safety.”
Loveless described the escalating issues at the Sudley Road shopping center in early to mid-2023: “Some regular panhandlers made this their shopping center of choice and worked the patrons as they parked.”
We want to hear from you about your vision for Stafford Marketplace’s future. What type of business or establishment would best serve the community and contribute to its growth?
Please click the link and take the one-answer survey we’ve created.
The Stafford Best Buy originally opened in 2008, marking a milestone for the county. Residents had long desired additional retail options closer to home, reducing the necessity of traveling to neighboring areas. However, changing consumer habits driven by the prevalence of online shopping have contributed to the store’s closure.
The closure is seen as a setback for the county, where residents consistently desire more shopping and entertainment destinations. The news comes amidst ongoing anticipation for developments like The Garrison, a 57-acre property acquired by Reston-based developer Pence Group in 2015. The original plans for The Garrison included 500,000 square feet of commercial space, over 400 residential units, a 12-screen Regal Cinemas, new restaurants, and apartment homes.
Sheetz, a well-known chain of gas stations and convenience stores, is seeking approval from the Prince William Board of County Supervisors to demolish and replace one of its early locations at 4021 Prince William Parkway in Dale City.
The company, owned by STEICO Incorporated, aims to demolish the existing structure and build a new gas station with a drive-through lane. To proceed with the work, it needs a special use permit (SUP) from the Prince William Board of County Superviosors. The county Planning Commission will take up the request at its meeting on February 7, 2024 in Woodbridge, open to the public.
Sheetz, owned by STEICO Incorporated, is petitioning the Prince William Board of County Supervisors for a special use permit (SUP) that would permit the addition of a drive-through facility. If granted, the company plans to demolish the existing structure and construct a new Sheetz gas station with updated interior design features and a reinstated drive-through for the convenience store.
The permit request will be deliberated at the county Planning Commission meeting on February 7, 2024, at the McCoart Building in Woodbridge, starting at 7 p.m. The SUP request encompasses the demolition and rebuilding of the existing Sheetz, featuring 6,100 square feet of gross floor area, with a total of 12 gas pumps.
The property at 9329 Main Street in downtown Manassas, which formerly housed the popular Three Monkeys Chophouse, is now listed for sale. The 4,091 square feet space includes fully equipped restaurant facilities, 2,684 square feet of banquet space, and an additional 2,684 square feet of second-floor offices and meeting rooms.
Zoned B-3, the property boasts ample parking and outdoor patio seating. Steps away from some of the city’s restaurants, it is prime for hospitality businesses.
The Kenmore Inn in Fredericksburg has undergone a change in ownership, with Newport News-based company Ironclad Distillery Co. acquiring the property for $2.4 million in late 2023. Ironclad, known for bourbon whiskey production in Newport News, intends to establish a tasting room in the Kenmore Inn’s basement, set to open within a month.
The King family, proprietors of Ironclad, plans to continue the Kenmore Inn’s operations as a bed-and-breakfast and event facility. This aspect of the business remains open and operational.
