Potomac Local News

Published November 21, 2025 at 10:11AM

The Publisher Hotel in Fredericksburg has named Cody DeRosett as its new executive chef, just in time for the holidays. DeRosett joins the Marriott Tribute Portfolio property with more than 10 years of culinary leadership at top restaurants and hotels nationwide.

Chef DeRosett will oversee the hotel’s signature restaurant, Five Chophouse, where he’s introducing seasonal menus inspired by local ingredients and personal stories. One standout dish, a Jerk Hen entrée, originated from a recipe he learned from a friend in Jamaica. His style blends creativity, comfort, and guest-centered hospitality.

Fredericksburg

Falmouth Bridge Replacement to Begin in 2030, Last Three Years

By Potomac Local News

Published November 21, 2025 at 10:09AM

VDOT inspects the Falmouth Bridge before work begins (X: Vadotfred

“That allows us to expand from a fairly straightforward traditional deck replacement to a full superstructure replacement,” Fredericksburg Free Press reported. “It’s something that would add complexity significantly to the project.”

The Virginia Department of Transportation told Fredericksburg City Council that construction on the 1943 Falmouth Bridge will begin in 2030 and last three years, with the span remaining open but reduced to two southbound lanes and one northbound lane. The $160 million project includes a full superstructure replacement, a 14-foot shared-use path, a six-foot sidewalk, and 11-foot travel lanes.

Prince William

Investigation Finds No Inappropriate Action by Battlefield Chain Crew

By Potomac Local News

Published November 21, 2025 at 8:27AM

“Revealed no evidence of inappropriate, unsportsmanlike or unethical behavior by the Battlefield High School parent volunteers serving on the line-to-gain crew during the game,” InsideNoVa reported. The letter added that “there is no indication or evidence of communication between the volunteers, coaches, or players.”

Forest Park staff discovered the headsets late in the third quarter of the Nov. 14 quarterfinal, prompting Battlefield to replace the crew. While headset use by chain crews is a rule violation, investigators determined no competitive advantage or improper communication occurred. The Class 6, Region B semifinals are set for Friday, with North Stafford traveling to Battlefield for a 7 p.m. kickoff.

Prince William

Prince William Supervisors Approve $61M Contract for Minnieville–Parkway Interchange

By Potomac Local News

Published November 20, 2025 at 3:59PM

A section of Prince William Parkway in Woodbridge is about to undergo the biggest transformation in its history. On Tuesday, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors voted to award a $61.4 million construction contract to The Lane Construction Corporation, clearing the way for a new grade-separated interchange at Prince William Parkway and Minnieville Road.

The project will create the county’s second Single-Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) and aims to untangle one of eastern Prince William’s most notorious traffic chokepoints.

News

Fundraiser for Joe Langiu’s Family AT Strangeways Brewing, Dec. 6

By Potomac Local News

Published November 20, 2025 at 3:57PM

“We’re all devastated by Joe’s passing,” according to an event posted to the Potomac Local News events calendar. “Joe was always a positive presence as a bandmate and friend, and his warmth and kindness to everybody he met will always be remembered.” “We want to honor him and his family with a great performance and donate all of the proceeds to help them at this difficult time.”

Unsung will host a benefit show for the family of guitarist Joe Langiu on Saturday, December 6, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Strangeways Brewing, located at 350 Lansdowne Road in Fredericksburg. All proceeds from the performance will support Langiu’s wife and two daughters, and guests may also purchase raffle tickets, buy merchandise, or contribute donations. No admission cost was listed. Additional event details are available at: https://www.potomaclocal.com/events/fundraiser-for-joe-langius-family-at-strangeways-brewing-dec-6-20822/.

Schools

PWCS Superintendent Highlights Four Years of Progress Under Vision 2025 Strategic Plan

By Potomac Local News

Published November 20, 2025 at 3:37PM

Prince William County Schools Superintendent LaTanya McDade. [Courtesy of PWCS on X]

“We now have 45.7% of all graduates earning post graduate credentials and 65% of career and technical education (CTE) graduates earning one or more college or career credentials,” Dr. McDade reported. “To date, PWCS has the highest entry-level teacher salary in Northern Virginia.”

During the Nov. 18 School Board meeting, Dr. McDade outlined gains including a 94.8% graduation rate, reductions in absenteeism and dropout rates, improved SOL pass rates, expanded CTE opportunities, and major compensation increases to strengthen teacher recruitment and retention. She also introduced PWCS Elevate 2030, the next strategic plan focusing on global competency, personalized learning, and teacher empowerment.

Fredericksburg

Friday Before Thanksgiving Book Sale Offers 25% Off at CRRL Center & Bookshop

By Potomac Local News

Published November 20, 2025 at 3:34PM

“Tomorrow (11/21) is the Friday Before Thanksgiving Book Sale at the Friends of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Center & Bookshop!” Central Rappahannock Regional Library announced. “One day only — get 25% off all purchases!”

The library noted that the Bookshop will offer gift books, holiday titles, and more, encouraging shoppers to “beat the holiday rush and shop early!” Special sale hours run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Politics

Right-to-Work Repeal Creates Early Tension Among Virginia Democrats

By Potomac Local News

Published November 20, 2025 at 3:29PM

“Governor-elect Spanberger believes the number-one job of the Governor of Virginia is to strengthen the Commonwealth’s economy and attract new jobs,” a spokesperson for Spanberger wrote, Virginia Scope reported. “As she made clear on the campaign trail, she does not support repealing the current statute.”

Prince William

Forest Park’s Season Ends as VHSL Rules Block Advancement Amid Investigation

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 19, 2025 at 10:22PM

“While there is an ongoing investigation regarding the opposing team’s volunteer chain crew and their use of communication devices during the game, please understand that under Virginia High School League (VHSL) rules, even if there is a change in Battlefield’s status, our team will not advance to the Region Semifinals,” InsideNoVa reported. “The Bruins would be unable to move forward due to Virginia High School League rules that state that a team that loses a game cannot challenge the outcome.”

Be a Local in the Know. Get All the News & Fewer Ads. Since 2010, Potomac Local News has produced honest, trusted local news reporting. Please become a member today for 100% access, and support community journalism.