News - Page 163 of 1912 - Potomac Local News

Dr. Taylor leaves Stafford County Schools

Published June 17, 2024 at 4:27PM

Dr. Thomas W. Taylor will leave Stafford County Schools to join Montgomery County this fall.

Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) has announced the departure of Superintendent Dr. Thomas W. Taylor, who has led SCPS since November 2021. Dr. Taylor will begin serving as Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools effective this fall. In a county-wide email, Dr. Taylor lauded accomplishments made in the schools, but also noted the county has dropped from 111 to 117 in state rankings for school funding.

During his tenure, Dr. Taylor implemented several measures aimed at improving educational outcomes, including the introduction of staffing standards and a streamlined budget focused on efficiency. SCPS saw an over 20% increase in average staff wages, as well as advancements in both diversity and gender equity in leadership positions that exceed national and state averages. Dr. Taylor also oversaw the construction of three new schools and the renovation of Edward E. Drew Middle School to accommodate the county’s growth.

Limited Tickets for Manassas Rooftop July 4 Party On Sale

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 17, 2024 at 11:09AM | Updated July 3, 2025 at 7:11PM

A parking garage in Downtown Manassas.

Historic Manassas Inc. (HMI) is now selling tickets for a July 4th Stars & Stripes Rooftop Picnic, set to provide the best view of the City of Manassas fireworks display. The event will occur on July 4, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., atop the downtown parking garage at 9102 Prince William Street.

The rooftop picnic promises a variety of food and drinks. Attendees can look forward to hamburgers, hot dogs, fried chicken, chips, green beans, cupcakes, beer, wine, soda, and water. The evening will also feature a DJ and games, ensuring entertainment for guests of all ages.

Seven displaced, 1 Injured in Stafford County House Fire

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 15, 2024 at 1:48PM

[Photo: Stafford County fire and rescue]

From Stafford County fire and rescue:

Just after 4 A.M. on Saturday, June 15th, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) were dispatched for a reported structure fire along Melanie Hollow Lane in the southeastern part of Stafford County. Multiple callers reported a home on fire, and crews arrived within five minutes and found a two-story, single family home with fire showing throughout the second floor. The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes. The home was occupied by seven individuals at the time of the fire. All were able to evacuate prior to the arrival of units on scene. They were evaluated; one was transported for non-life-threatening injuries.

Manassas to Host Second Annual Puerto Rican Festival

By Alan Gloss

Published June 14, 2024 at 2:00PM

Jesus Rosa, owner of The Puerto Rico Cafe in Manassas, is hosting the Manassas Puerto Rican Festival again. This marks the second year Rosa and his wife, Jamari, organized the event in Manassas.

“It’s a celebration of Puerto Rican culture, family, and bringing everyone together,” Rosa said. “It’s diverse; it’s not just for Puerto Ricans, it’s for everyone. We want everyone to come down and enjoy the food, the music, the entertainment of your Puerto Rican friends and neighbors.”

MWHC Plans Free Community Baby Shower

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 14, 2024 at 11:20AM

Mary Washington Healthcare (MWHC) is gearing up for its annual Free Community Baby Shower.

Following the success of last year’s event, which saw 1,000 attendees, this year promises to be even bigger and better. To accommodate the growing number of participants and enhance the experience, the event has been moved to a new location, offering more fun, education, and prizes for new and expecting mothers and their families.

Poll: Prince William County’s New Plan to Address Panhandling

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 13, 2024 at 9:57PM | Updated November 9, 2024 at 3:36PM

[Photo: Robinson Recalde on Unsplash]

Prince William County plans to pay panhandlers to stop panhandling by employing them in a litter removal program. What do you think about this initiative?

Standoff Ends Peacefully; Manassas Police Mum on Details

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 13, 2024 at 3:32PM

A tense situation unfolded in the 8300 block of Georgian Court late last night, resulting in a significant police presence. The incident began around 11:15 p.m. on June 12, 2024, when police surrounded a single residence where an individual was reportedly refusing to come out.

Authorities responded swiftly, ensuring the area was secure and contained. As a precautionary measure, neighbors were advised to stay indoors while the police attempted to resolve the standoff.

Fredericksburg Drops Charges Against 9 Arrested in Anti-Israel Protest

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 13, 2024 at 2:37PM

On Monday, June 10, and Tuesday, June 11, Fredericksburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Elizabeth K. Humphries dropped charges against the nine students arrested and charged with trespassing during an anti-Israel campus protest on April 27. Humphries opted to prosecute three more individuals arrested on that date who were not students. Each was sentenced to 20 hours of community service.

The protestors ignored commands to leave the area after officers declared an unlawful assembly, also known as a riot. The University of Mary Washington has stonewalled this news organization in its many attempts to learn the identities of those charged. Humphries failed to include the identities in a lengthy four-page statement about her decision.

Captivating ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Performance at Riverside Center Delights Audiences with Classic Charm and Modern Twists

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 12, 2024 at 2:03PM

[Photo: Suzanne Carr Rossi]

The Riverside Center for the Performing Arts presents “The Wizard of Oz,” a production that captures the essence of the beloved classic. The crowd responded enthusiastically, with applause reaching a peak when Toto took the stage. Sammy, a three-year-old Shih Tzu, plays him.

The immersive set brings the audience close to the action, especially those in the front row, making them feel part of the show. The design focuses on the farm scenes from the first and final acts, creating a familiar and engaging environment.

‘Rumors’ opens Friday at ARTFactory

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 12, 2024 at 12:00PM

ARTfactory’s Rooftop Productions will present Neil Simon’s comedy “Rumors” at the Wind River Theater from June 14 to June 23. The play, directed by Charlynn Mills, features a talented cast and promises a hilarious and lighthearted experience. Performances are scheduled for June 14, 15, 21, and 22 at 7:30 PM and June 16 and 23 at 2:00 PM.