Morning notes
From honoring 9/11 in Stafford to spotlighting standout educators and celebrating creativity across our region, this week’s roundup features stories of dedication, celebration, and community connection. Dive in to see how local leaders, artists, students, and runners are shaping the weeks ahead.
From federal policy debates in Woodbridge to court battles over the Digital Gateway, plus community events and school honors, here are today’s top stories across Prince William and Stafford counties.
Rep. Eugene Vindman Denounces DEI Rollbacks, Federal Cuts at Woodbridge Roundtable
Today’s roundup includes major updates from local governments, schools, and community organizations—from housing policy and school attendance to business openings, library renovations, and live-fire military training. Catch up on what’s new, what’s changing, and what’s coming up across the region.
📰 Support Local News That Puts Your Community First
Get full access to trusted, in-depth reporting from PotomacLocal.com by becoming a paid member today. Your support helps keep essential local coverage alive.
👉 Join here
STAFFORD, Va. – If your pup loves the water, mark your calendar—Drool in the Pool is back for two days of splashy fun in Stafford County.
The folks at Stafford Parks just told Potomac Local News they’re opening the pools to dogs (and their humans) on Saturday and Sunday, September 6–7. Bring your furry friend, a towel, and a swimsuit for a morning of canine cannonballs and belly flops.
MANASSAS PARK, Va. – Heads up if you’re driving or stopping by city services in Manassas Park this week—there are a couple of detours to know about.
The folks at Manassas Park Public Works just told Potomac Local News that sewer line repairs will close parts of Manassas Drive on Monday and Tuesday, August 18–19. Eastbound drivers will be detoured to Mace Street, while westbound traffic will need to follow a longer loop via Mace, Sheldon, and Baker Streets. Signs will be posted, but expect delays and drive carefully.
![[Photo: FredNats]](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/frednats-1-600x400.jpeg)
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – The Fredericksburg Nationals are marking National Potato Day with a quirky giveaway. Fans who bring a potato to the ballpark on Tuesday, August 19, at 6:35 p.m. will get a free field seat ticket.
According to the team, every potato collected will be donated to a local food bank. The fan who shows up with the heaviest potato will win $250.
Realtor.com: Using views per property from out-of-district home shoppers from May to July 2025, we identified the most popular school districts in each metro. To focus specifically on school-driven home shopping activity, we limited the traffic analysis to properties with at least one nearby school rated 8 or above based on scores from GreatSchools. — More from Realtor.com.
Fredericksburg’s popular Concert by Canoe series is set to return next week, bringing live music to the water at Motts Run Reservoir. The summer run kicks off Wednesday, August 20, with the Shim Dogs performing from 6 to 8 p.m.
Concert-goers can paddle out in their canoe or kayak, or rent one on-site, to enjoy an evening of live music surrounded by nature. Gates open at 5 p.m.
Historic Fredericksburg Foundation commemorates WWII’s 80th anniversary this weekend with a USO dance Friday and open house and blood drive Saturday at the former USO building‑‑now the Dorothy Hart Center.
