Breaking News

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Prince William County Public Schools’ brand-new bus tracking app still isn’t working—and now it looks like it may stay down for a few days.

The folks at PWCS just shared with Potomac Local News that the EZ A2B app is still offline and won’t be up in time for this afternoon’s school bus routes. The vendor says it may take “multiple days” to restore service.


Neighborhood Notes

STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County gave us the nudge: “Get in a good run (or walk—we don’t judge)”—and they’re right. It’s time to sign up for the next race in the 2025 Stafford Race Series: the Go for Bo 5K and One Mile Fun Run on Saturday, September 13 at Stafford Regional Airport.

Hosted by Ebenezer Church, this sunset race isn’t just scenic—it’s a fundraiser that’s been making a difference for families in Bo, Sierra Leone. Over the last decade, locals have raised more than $250,000 to support hospitals, schools, and nutrition programs through Helping Children Worldwide.


Weather

After several days of highs in the low to mid-90s, a cold front will bring a noticeable cool-down to our region. Showers and storms this evening will give way to cloudy skies and much cooler temperatures to start the week.

Highs will stay in the 70s to low 80s Monday and Tuesday, with some drizzle or light showers possible before drier weather returns midweek. By next weekend, warmer and more humid air will move back in, along with the chance for thunderstorms.


Neighborhood Notes

The crew at Tidewater Grill just let us know their Summer Brunch Buffet is wrapping up soon—and if you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time.

There are only two weekends left to enjoy this all-you-can-eat brunch spread at Potomac Shores. It’s happening Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—except for Sunday, August 17, when it wraps up early at 2 p.m.


Neighborhood Notes

MANASSAS, Va. – The folks at ARTfactory just shared a fun way for locals to leave their mark—literally. With their new Bricks for the Arts campaign, you can snag a personalized brick in the Wind River Theater lobby.

It’s a small donation, but it goes a long way. Each brick comes with a plaque engraved with your name (or someone else’s), plus a certificate and a special gift to say thanks. It’s a chance to support the arts and be part of ARTfactory’s legacy in downtown Manassas.


Neighborhood Notes

The team at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts just gave Potomac Local News an early peek behind the curtain as they gear up for The Sound of Music, opening this Wednesday.

From hand-painted marble floors (yes, hand-painted) to humming rehearsals and detailed costume fittings, it’s clear the Riverside crew is pouring heart and soul into this classic production. The sets are coming together, the cast is in fine voice, and the stage is nearly set for opening night.


Manassas Park

MANASSAS PARK, Va. – Another new restaurant is headed to Park Central. The city teased on Facebook that Nash & Smashed, known for its Nashville-style hot chicken and smash burgers, will soon open in town. An official opening date has not yet been announced.

Nash & Smashed got its start in Galveston Court, near Hoadly Road and Prince William Parkway in Woodbridge, in 2023 and has since expanded across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., with more than 25 locations open or in development. The menu features hot chicken sandwiches, fried chicken buckets, and signature smash burgers, including options that combine both chicken and beef. The chain emphasizes locally sourced and halal ingredients.


Schools

A major update this year: all schools are going cell phone-free. Elementary and K-8 students must keep phones off and put away all day, including field trips. Middle and high schoolers must store devices from bell to bell—even during instructional periods. Parents who need to reach their child can still call the school office.

PWCS buses will be rolling bright and early, covering up to 11 million miles this year. Families are encouraged to check ParentVUE or the new EZ A2B app tonight to confirm updated bus stops and times.


Prince William

MANASSAS, Va. – Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office just told Potomac Local News they’ve secured a conviction in a deadly 2024 shooting on Stream Walk Lane, near Route 234 and Interstate 66, near Manassas. Zahir Abdul-Rahman Mujahid, 39, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of Horace Roy Johnson III and has been sentenced to 40 years in prison—with more than 19 years suspended.

The shooting happened the night of November 23, 2024, near Balls Ford Road. Police found Johnson dead at the scene, along with shell casings and a pair of red glasses known to belong to Mujahid. Investigators say Mujahid shot Johnson multiple times after a fight broke out.