News

VRE Ridership Increases Slightly as System Adjusts to the ‘New Normal’

By Uriah Kiser

As the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) heads into 2025, its proposed budget reflects its challenges and opportunities in a post-COVID world. The budget discussed at the October 18, 2024, Operations Board meeting outlines plans to support ridership recovery, maintain reliable service, and position VRE for future growth as a regional rail provider.

VRE, like many public transit systems, saw a significant decline in ridership during the pandemic. However, the 2025 budget aims to address passengers’ slow but steady recovery by investing in enhanced service offerings and critical infrastructure projects. These efforts are intended to transform VRE from a commuter-focused system to a broader regional transportation network.

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House Explosion: Dog Rescue from Debris 5 Days Later

By Uriah Kiser

From Prince William fire and rescue:

The family dog has been rescued. Earlier this morning, units were dispatched back to the scene of last week’s horrific house explosion for a report of a barking dog in the debris. Crews arrived to hear the dog under a portion of the collapsed structure. Firefighters were able to free the animal after about 20 minutes of deploying structure collapse stabilization shoring techniques and some good old coaxing by the home’s owner. She appeared to be in good shape and showed her happiness of being freed by rapid tail wagging.

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58th Session of Criminal Justice Academy Graduates 17

By Caitlyn Meisner
The 58th session of the Prince William County Criminal Justice Academy Basic Law Enforcement graduated on Oct. 17. [Photo courtesy of Prince William County]

Following a 24-week course of training, the 16 police officers and sheriff’s deputy attended a graduation ceremony at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas to celebrate their achievements.

The course included training in all aspects of police work, including classes in firearms, use-of-force decision-making, driver training, legal training, patrol techniques and investigative work.

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Town of Dumfries Hosts its Second Annual Pink and Purple Brunch to Raise Awareness for Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence

By Aya Karouane
Dumfries is Virginia's oldest continually chartered town.

The Town of Dumfries will host the Pink and Purple Brunch on October 27, 2024, at the Clyde Washington Community Center to raise awareness about breast cancer and domestic violence. This free event will feature local advocates and healthcare professionals, and attendees must register by October 23, 2024, as seating is limited.

Press Release:

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Manassas Businessman Agrees to Pay $1 Million to Settle Pandemic Fraud Allegations

By Aya Karouane
Albert V. Bryan United States Courthouse in Alexandria, home to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.(Flckr photo: Tim Evanson)

The founder of a Manassas business has agreed to pay $1 million to settle allegations of falsifying payroll amounts to obtain inflated loans through the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program. The settlement follows a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, with a whistleblower set to receive a share of the settlement.

Press Release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia:

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Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office Investigating Fatal Crash

By Aya Karouane
Spotsylvania Sheriff's office responded to a domestic violence report that resulted in an officer shooting.

On October 18, 2024, deputies responded to a single-vehicle crash on Shepherds Road, resulting in the death of the driver, a 49-year-old male. The incident is under investigation by the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team.

Press Release from Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office:

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Quantico Station to Celebrate Major Upgrades with November Ribbon Cutting

By Uriah Kiser
A Virginia Railway Express train pulls into the Fredericksburg train station. [Photo: Uriah Kiser/PLN]

During the October 18, 2024, VRE Operations Board meeting, it was announced that invitations have been sent out for the event, with all necessary travel details, including train schedules, provided to ensure smooth participation. The excitement surrounding the completion of these upgrades was evident, with board members and VRE staff expressing their enthusiasm for what the improvements will mean for the station and the surrounding community.

“I’m very excited about the upcoming ribbon-cutting at Quantico. This project has been in the works for quite some time, and we’re thrilled to see it finally come to fruition,” said Prince William County Supervisor Andrea Bailey, who sits on the VRE Operations Board.

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Metal Detectors: Prince William County Schools See Dramatic Drop in Weapons on Campus 

By Uriah Kiser

Prince William County Schools (PWCS) continues to focus on student and staff safety with a comprehensive security approach that blends advanced technology, leadership development, and a new Security Operations Center.

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Historic Annaburg Manor Celebrates Restoration with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Art Show

By Potomac Local News

In addition to the ribbon cutting, attendees were treated to the manor’s first-ever art show featuring local artists.

Manassas acquired Annaburg Manor in 2019 to preserve its historical significance while transforming the grounds into a public park. Originally constructed in 1892 by Robert Portner, a Prussian-born entrepreneur and brewer, the home served as a summer retreat and gathering space for the community. The property later became a nursing facility before being purchased by the city.

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