Potomac Local News

Published May 12, 2025 at 3:24PM

NORTH STAFFORD, Va. – A local community group concerned about the rapid spread of data centers in Stafford County is inviting residents to learn more at a public meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Porter Branch Library, 2001 Parkway Blvd., Stafford.

The meeting, hosted by Protect Stafford, comes at a time when communities across Virginia are questioning the true costs and benefits of data center expansion. Just last week, Manassas city officials learned a bank tenant inside a data center managed to sidestep millions of dollars in expected local tax payments, leaving a gap in the city’s budget and raising red flags for other localities facing similar projects.

Manassas

Manassas GOP Calls for Action on Jail’s Immigration Policy Ahead of Meeting

By Potomac Local News

Published May 12, 2025 at 2:00PM

MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas City Republican Committee is calling on residents to fill the room at the next Prince William-Manassas Regional Jail Board meeting, pushing for the jail to renew its 287(g) immigration enforcement partnership with federal authorities.

The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the conference room of the Adult Detention Center, 9320 Lee Avenue in Manassas.

News

Prince William Water Accepting Applications for 2025 Water Academy

By Caitlyn Meisner

Published May 12, 2025 at 1:00PM | Updated May 13, 2025 at 3:34PM

Past participants of the Water Academy at a demonstration. [Courtesy photo]

The Academy, which started in 2017, hopes to educate Prince William County adults about “their water utility, water and wastewater infrastructure and treatment, and our shared role in environmental stewardship,” Rebecca Wadman, the organization’s education and outreach coordinator, said.

Wadman said the Academy tries to provide adults and high school and college students in the area with an understanding of how water is provided and can spread the information with loved ones.

Features

Kings Dominion Throws Open the Gates on Its 50th Birthday Celebration

By Potomac Local News

Published May 12, 2025 at 11:00AM

DOSWELL, Va. – Kings Dominion is officially kicking off its 50th anniversary season with what it’s calling A Golden Summerbration—a summer-long party packed with entertainment, new food and drinks, ride upgrades, and the highly anticipated opening of Rapterra, the park’s new record-breaking roller coaster.

According to the park’s announcement today, the festivities start May 24 with the launch of Light the Night, a new visual spectacle on International Street, and the return of the park’s beloved Clown Band. Later this summer, guests can enjoy the Prism laser show, the 50 Years of FUN Street Party, and the return of the Gazillion Bubble Show. Park-goers will also find new eats like customizable funnel cakes, a German-style Biergarten, and throwback favorites like the iconic Blue Ice Cream and Banana Split Dippin’ Dots.

Prince William

Haymarket Council Approves Worship Space in QBE Building With Yearly Reviews, Traffic Study Requirement

By Potomac Local News

Published May 12, 2025 at 10:30AM | Updated May 15, 2025 at 1:18PM

HAYMARKET, Va. – The Haymarket Town Council voted unanimously on May 5, 2025, to approve a special use permit (SUP) allowing a religious group to use leased space at the QBE Building on Washington Street for public assembly, adding several conditions—including an annual review of the permit.

The decision comes after nearly eight months of review by the town’s planning staff, Planning Commission, and Town Council, marking what staff described as a “normal review procedural timeline” for a special use request of this type.

Manassas

Manassas Says Thanks: 15 Volunteers Honored for Making the City Shine

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 12, 2025 at 10:00AM

MANASSAS, Va. – Fifteen residents were named Outstanding Volunteers by the City of Manassas during a recognition dinner and reception held Tuesday, April 29, at the Hylton Center for the Performing Arts. One award was given posthumously. The honorees were chosen from among more than 450 individuals who regularly give their time to support the city.

According to a city press release, these volunteers were celebrated for their work across historic preservation, emergency response, civic boards, and community outreach. From guiding museum tours to running community holiday events and supporting zoning appeals, each has made a lasting mark on the city.

News

Yorkshire Fire Department Mourns Sudden Loss of Longtime President

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 12, 2025 at 9:50AM

In a statement shared on social media, the department described Frye as a devoted public servant who dedicated over 18 years to serving the community. His sudden passing has deeply impacted not only the department but the broader fire service family in the region.

Manassas Park Fire Rescue also paid tribute, posting their condolences and honoring Frye as a “remarkable community member.”

Prince William

Motorcyclist Killed in Crash at Minnieville and Prince William Parkway

By Potomac Local News

Published May 12, 2025 at 9:45AM

[Scott Rodgerson/Unsplash]

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – A motorcyclist was killed Friday night in a collision at the intersection of Minnieville Road and Prince William Parkway in Woodbridge.

According to the Prince William County Police Department, the crash occurred around 10:30 p.m. on May 10. Investigators say the rider of a 2019 Indian FTR 1200 motorcycle was heading east on Minnieville Road when he ran a red light at Prince William Parkway. At the same time, a 2019 Kia Soul, traveling westbound, began turning left onto Prince William Parkway when the two vehicles collided.

News

What DEI Looks Like in Stafford Schools—And What It Doesn’t

By Potomac Local News

Published May 12, 2025 at 9:00AM

Editor’s Note: This article is part of our exclusive five-part series, “A Conversation with the Superintendent,” featuring an in-depth interview with Dr. Daniel W. Smith, Superintendent of Stafford County Public Schools. In this series, we explore Dr. Smith’s vision, challenges, and priorities—from addressing school transportation issues to tackling equity gaps, funding shortages, and the future of education in Stafford County. New articles are published weekly.

Part 5: Equity and Inclusion — DEI in Today’s Climate