Manassas - Page 24 of 59 - Potomac Local News

Catch These Must-See Shows Before the Curtains Close Sunday

Published June 20, 2025 at 2:30PM

Coker as Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird. [Photo: Suzanne Carr-Rossi]

This weekend marks your last chance to catch two standout productions on local stages before the curtains close for good.

At the ARTfactory in Manassas, Lend Me a Soprano wraps up its run with performances through Sunday. This fast-paced farce, written by Ken Ludwig, offers a hilarious backstage comedy that’s been praised for its sharp direction, standout cast, and intimate setting. According to a review from the ARTfactory, the show “delivers big laughs in a small space” and makes the most of its cozy venue to pull audiences into the operatic chaos. Tickets and details are available at virginiaartfactory.org.

Huser Named Manassas City Public Schools’ 2025 Washington Post Teacher of the Year

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published June 20, 2025 at 7:30AM

Abigail Huser, a life science teacher and department lead at Metz Middle School, has been named Manassas City Public Schools’ 2025 Washington Post Teacher of the Year. Known for her energy, leadership, and dedication, Huser is being recognized for going the extra mile to support students’ academic and personal growth.

Huser joined MCPS in 2022 and quickly became a mentor, coach, and instructional leader. From translating lessons for multilingual learners to coaching the volleyball team, she brings creativity and heart to everything she does. Metz Principal Juliet Finnegan called her “the teacher every student hopes to have,” praising her ability to create a classroom culture rooted in curiosity and respect.

Manassas Council Eyes Public-Private Partnership Path to Jumpstart Downtown Hotel, Garage Project

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 17, 2025 at 9:00AM

A new Hilton Garden Inn is located at 15001 Washington Street in Haymarket, and will open March 1, 2022. [Photo: Uriah Kiser]

During a June 16, 2025, City Council work session, members reviewed draft guidelines that would formally enable the city to consider proposals under Virginia’s Public-Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act. The move is seen as key to advancing the stalled transformation of the 9400 block of Main Street, where the city has acquired several key parcels but has yet to break ground on new development.

City Manager Steve Burke told the council the guidelines provide flexibility for developers to work with the city on projects that involve publicly owned land or infrastructure—especially the anticipated parking garage and municipal annex.

Manassas City Schools Employees May Get Nearly 7% Salary Increase

By Caitlyn Meisner

Published June 16, 2025 at 1:15PM

The Manassas City Public Schools Board approved its new budget on June 10.

Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) employees may get an additional 1.5% salary increase for the 2025-2026 school year, pending School Board approval on June 24.

At the beginning of the budget process in February, the MCPS Board wasn’t able to even fund a 5.5% salary increase due to budget constraints from City Council and the Commonwealth.

Godwin Drive Closing for Summer Detour Near Round Elementary

By Potomac Local News

Published June 16, 2025 at 11:15AM

MANASSAS, Va. – Drivers near Round Elementary School will need to adjust their routes this summer.

Godwin Drive will be closed to traffic between Cedar Ridge Drive and Winged Elm Circle from June 16 through August 12 as crews work on a stream restoration and pond retrofit project near the school. All traffic will be detoured via Clover Hill Road and Hastings Drive, according to an announcement from the City of Manassas.

Manassas School Board Debates Grading Policy Over Zeroes and Student Accountability

By Potomac Local News

Published June 16, 2025 at 9:00AM | Updated June 16, 2025 at 11:20AM

MANASSAS, Va. – A spirited discussion emerged at the June 5 Manassas City School Board work session as board members debated whether the district should allow teachers to assign zeroes to students who fail to turn in assignments.

The proposal, introduced by board member Sara Brescia, aims to revise the current grading policy, which uses a 50–100 scale and does not allow grades below 50%, even for missing work. Brescia argued that the lack of a true zero disincentivizes student effort.

Micron, RapidFlight Mark Manassas as Rising Tech Hub

By Potomac Local News

Published June 16, 2025 at 7:30AM

MANASSAS, Va. – Senator Mark Warner visited the City of Manassas on Thursday, June 12, 2025, where he joined Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger, Vice Mayor Mark Wolfe, and City Council Members Ashley Hutson and Ralph Smith for a tour of RapidFlight, the city’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturer. The visit highlighted RapidFlight’s role in national defense innovation and the city’s growing importance in advanced technology manufacturing.

The same day, Micron Technology, Inc. announced a major national investment plan totaling approximately $200 billion, including $150 billion in domestic memory manufacturing and $50 billion in research and development. The plan includes an expansion and modernization of Micron’s existing facility in Manassas, supported by a $275 million CHIPS Act direct funding award. Work at the Manassas site is expected to begin this year.

Date Night Spotlight: Carmello’s in Manassas

By Potomac Local News

Published June 12, 2025 at 11:15AM

Step into elegance and Mediterranean romance at Carmello’s, a beloved fine dining destination nestled in the heart of Manassas.

Family-owned since 1987 and helmed by Portuguese immigrant Alice Pires, Carmello’s offers a contemporary blend of Portuguese and Italian cuisine, seasonally crafted and bursting with garden-fresh flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, this award-winning restaurant delivers a dining experience that’s as warm and refined as its heritage.

Manassas Drone Company RapidFlight to Host Senator Warner

By Potomac Local News

Published June 12, 2025 at 7:30AM

Virginia Senators Tim Kaine (D) and Mark Warner (D) [Photo: Germanna Community College]

The visit, scheduled from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at RapidFlight’s headquarters, 9635 Center Street, will include a live interview with the senator and a Q&A session open to guests. The event is free and hosted in coordination with the Prince William Chamber of Commerce, city leaders, and RapidFlight executives.

Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger confirmed the visit during her June 11 virtual address to the Prince William Chamber of Commerce, where she provided a wide-ranging update on city projects, economic development, and veteran initiatives.

Manassas City Council Unanimously Adopts $512 Million Budget

By Caitlyn Meisner

Published June 11, 2025 at 9:00AM

Manassas City Council approved its fiscal year 2026 budget Monday night.

At the Monday night meeting, Manassas City Council unanimously approved its fiscal year 2026 budget, totaling more than $512 million and following months of meetings.

The budget will take effect on July 1; though the real estate tax rate will remain flat at $1.07 per $100 of assessed value, property assessments are increasing an average of 8%. The average increase for a homeowner’s tax bill is expected to be about $406 starting July 1.