News

Fredericksburg and Stafford Prepare for Major Rail Infrastructure Upgrade

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

Ian Ollis, the organization’s director, explained the scope of the project. “It’s one main project that seeks to replace a bridge over the rail line. The reason for that is the need to put a third rail track from Union Station in D.C. down to our region,” Ollis said.

Virginia has purchased 50% of the rail right-of-way, particularly the eastern half, where most stations are located. The third track will be constructed in sections, tying in with the new Long Bridge over the Potomac River. Ollis detailed the project’s progress, noting that it will be built in pieces through Stafford County toward Quantico.

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Manassas City Council Candidate Survey: City Management, Staff Retention

By Caitlyn Meisner

Editor’s note: We have corrected this post, as some responses were attributed to the wrong candidate.

As early voting for the fall 2024 election approaches, Potomac Local News is dedicated to informing the community about candidates vying for one of three open seats on the Manassas City Council and the mayor’s seat.

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Fredericksburg Police Will Text 911 Callers with Updates

By Uriah Kiser

The Fredericksburg Police Department is introducing a new tool called PowerEngage, which was developed in collaboration with PowerDMS. PowerEngage aims to keep citizens informed and gather feedback on non-life-threatening service calls.

The department can now send real-time notifications during service calls. If an officer has not responded to a call within 15 minutes due to high call volume, a text message will be sent with an update. Once the call has been closed, a text survey will be dispatched within six hours, asking for feedback on satisfaction with the services provided. This feedback will improve services and provide appropriate responses to officers and 911 call takers.

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Stafford County Animal Shelter Faces Surge in Pet Surrenders Due to Rising Costs

By Uriah Kiser

The Stafford County Animal Shelter is experiencing a significant increase in pet surrenders as residents struggle with rising pet care costs. The shelter has seen unprecedented number of animals, leading to capacity issues.

Stafford County Sheriff’s Capt. Joseph Bice, who oversees the shelter, explained the situation. “In the two and a half years I’ve been here, the number of dogs we’re taking in is extraordinary. We’re getting dogs at a rate of three to one compared to the rate of adoption.”

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Democrats Attack GOP Candidate Over Shirt Color in Manassas Election

By Uriah Kiser

The mayoral campaign in Manassas has begun, and Democrats have launched their first attack, focusing on the shirt color of the Republican candidate, Xiao Yin “Tang” Byrom.

Byrom knocked on doors and talked with voters on Sunday, August 4, 2024. She posted a photo of herself wearing her campaign colors, pink and green, on Facebook.

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SweetFrog Frozen Yogurt Opens in Manassas with Ribbon Cutting

By Uriah Kiser
Lulu and Jay Trotter, owners of SweetFrog at Hastings Marketplace in Manassas.

SweetFrog Frozen Yogurt, located at 10077 Market Circle in Manassas, is now open for business.

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Voodoo Brothers, Lume Asian Fusion Hold Ribbon Cuttings

By Caitlyn Meisner
The ribbon-cutting ceremony at Voodoo Brothers Cajun in August 2024. [Courtesy of Manassas Department of Economic Development]

Voodoo Brothers Cajun and Lume Asian Fusion have officially been welcomed into the Manassas community with ribbon-cutting ceremonies on Friday, Aug. 2. Both are located in the Historic District of Manassas on Center Street. Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger attended both ceremonies.

Have you been to either restaurant yet? Let us know what you think about both of them in the comments!

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Join the Fun: Stafford County Fair Brings Family Activities and Local Culture to Fredericksburg

By Kelly Sienkowski
Stafford County Fair

The Stafford County Agricultural and Homemaking Fair will return Oct. 17 through Oct. 20 at the UMW Stafford Campus (121 University Boulevard). The fair features family-friendly activities like a children’s power wheel derby and tractor pull, a petting zoo, and carnival rides. Attendees can enjoy live music, explore a variety of vendor stalls, and experience displays from first responders. This year’s fair continues the legacy of a community-focused event that celebrates local culture, agriculture, and togetherness.

The roots of the Fair trace back to October 1922, when it was first held at Stafford High School. The inaugural event, organized by the School Board and fair officers, featured a school parade and a range of exhibits highlighting agricultural achievements, domestic arts, and educational displays. Over the years, the fair has faced interruptions, including a cancellation in 1930 due to drought and a hiatus during World War II. It was revived in 1948 at Falmouth High School, where it continued for several more years before coming to an end. 

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Fredericksburg Food Co-Op Launches Enhanced Benefits for SNAP/EBT and SUN Bucks Users

By Uriah Kiser

The Fredericksburg Food Co-op is now accepting Virginia SUN Bucks and, in partnership with Virginia Fresh Match, is doubling the value of SUN Bucks and SNAP/EBT benefits on fruits and vegetables to support low-income families. Additionally, purchases made with SNAP/EBT cards will receive 20% cashback in “Carrot Cash,” promoting access to nutritious foods and supporting local farmers.

Fredericksburg Food Co-op is excited to accept Virginia SUN Bucks. In partnership with Virginia Fresh Match, we are pleased to double the value of SUN Bucks and SNAP/EBT on fruits and vegetables to make nutritious foods more affordable for low income families.

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Manassas Park Community Center to Temporarily Close for Scheduled Maintenance

By Uriah Kiser

The Manassas Park Community Center (MPCC) will temporarily close from Sunday, August 11, to Friday, August 16, for scheduled maintenance and deep cleaning services. This annual maintenance is crucial to ensure the facility remains in excellent condition for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, the city posted.

? MPCC will be closed Sunday, 8/11-Friday, 8/16 for scheduled maintenance & deep cleaning services of the facility. The facility will reopen on Saturday, 8/17 at 7am.

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