Potomac Local News

Published May 2, 2025 at 10:30AM

STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County is tackling two major traffic challenges — and it’s asking residents to weigh in while preparing to break ground on a major intersection upgrade.

The county is seeking public input on two of its most congested and crash-prone corridors: Garrisonville Road (VA 610) and Warrenton Road (US 17). Both routes have been flagged for safety and congestion concerns. The county plans to apply for state funding through the Virginia SMART SCALE program in 2026 to study each area under the PATHS (Program for Affordable Transportation Hotspot Solutions) program.

News

Early Voting Kicks Off in Virginia Lt. Governor Race—Lateef Doubles Down on Anti-Casino Stance

By Potomac Local News

Published May 2, 2025 at 10:00AM

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Early voting is now underway in Virginia’s Democratic primary for Lieutenant Governor, and one Northern Virginia candidate is making a bold stand on gambling.

Prince William County School Board Chairman Dr. Babur Lateef, one of five Democrats seeking the nomination, is campaigning hard against proposals to expand casino gambling in the state—particularly a push to build a casino in Tysons Corner. He argues that Virginia, which has operated with budget surpluses in recent years, doesn’t need gambling revenue to fund its government.

Fredericksburg

Cleanup Continues at Drained Canal in Fredericksburg; Investigation into Cause Ongoing

By Potomac Local News

Published May 2, 2025 at 9:30AM

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – City work crews have now removed more than 15 tons of debris from the drained canal running through Fredericksburg and made several key repairs to its aeration system, according to the latest update from city officials.

The city says cleanup efforts are expected to continue through Wednesday, after which the canal will be refilled. That process could take between three and five days using pumps, though rainfall may accelerate the timeline. A photo shared by the city government shows piles of debris lining the canal bed as part of the extensive restoration work.

News

Big Changes Coming to Stafford’s School Buses—Here’s What Parents Need to Know

By Potomac Local News

Published May 2, 2025 at 9:00AM

Part 2: Fixing the Bus Problem — New Plans for Transportation in Stafford

Stafford County Public Schools has faced mounting criticism over its student transportation system. From late buses to no-shows, families voiced their frustration during connection sessions held by Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith earlier this year. In response, Smith is moving quickly. “We can’t wait another year,” he said. “The data showed our biggest bottleneck was at the elementary level. That’s where we had to start.”

Fredericksburg

Agora Turns 10: Coffee Shop Celebrates with Sprinkles, Discounts, and Double Punches

By Potomac Local News

Published May 2, 2025 at 8:30AM

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Agora Downtown is marking a major milestone—10 years in business—with a week of celebration and a few extra perks for its loyal customers.

To wrap up its Spirit Week, Agora is giving customers a sweet deal: complimentary sprinkles and whipped cream with every drink. Those who show up in birthday-themed gear like pins, sashes, or festive attire will receive 10% off their purchase today, Friday, May 2, 2025. It’s all part of the shop’s way of saying thanks to the community that’s supported them for a decade.

Manassas

Battlefield Park to Unveil ‘Faces of the Fallen’ Exhibit for Memorial Day

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 2, 2025 at 8:00AM

MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas National Battlefield Park will unveil a new permanent exhibit, “Faces of the Fallen,” and host Memorial Day observances from May 24 to May 26, 2025, at Henry Hill, 6511 Sudley Road, Manassas.

The exhibit dedication will take place on May 24 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Throughout the Memorial Day weekend, the park will feature guided programs, artillery salutes, walking tours, and family-friendly activities in remembrance of the 3,500 soldiers who died in the battles of Manassas.

News

Kings Dominion Turns 50 This Weekend—Here’s What’s Happening

By Potomac Local News

Published May 1, 2025 at 3:29PM | Updated May 2, 2025 at 1:27PM

DOSWELL, Va. – Kings Dominion is hitting the big 5-0 this Saturday, May 3, and the park is throwing a day-long celebration to mark the milestone.

Guests attending the anniversary festivities will get a free commemorative birthday button, while supplies last. Kicking off the day, the energetic VCU Peppas band will perform at the front gate before the park officially opens at 11 a.m. The nostalgic vibes continue with a special appearance by the KOS band, which also played on the park’s opening day in 1975. They’ll be back under the Eiffel Tower with performances throughout the day.

Features

Fredericksburg’s Own Tug Coker Stars as Atticus Finch in ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ at Riverside

By Uriah Kiser

Published May 1, 2025 at 3:06PM

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Broadway actor and Fredericksburg native Tug Coker is stepping into one of the most iconic roles in American theater—Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird—as he makes his hometown stage debut at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The production runs May 7 through June 22, 2025.

Adapted from Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a Mockingbird is set in 1930s Alabama and follows young siblings Scout and Jem as they navigate childhood under the watchful and moral guidance of their widowed father. The calm of their small town is shattered when Atticus Finch, a respected local attorney, defends a Black man falsely accused of a violent crime. Riverside describes the play as “timeless and lingering,” exploring “prejudice, compassion, and the courage to do what is right.”

Schools

Stafford’s Class of 2025 Gears Up for Graduation After Celebrating Decision Day

By Potomac Local News

Published May 1, 2025 at 2:10PM

STAFFORD, Va. – The Class of 2025 is stepping into their future with confidence and pride. Today we celebrate all the paths ahead—college, military, and career.

Stafford County Public Schools kicked off May with a celebration of Decision Day, honoring graduating seniors for their post-high school plans. Whether students are preparing for college, entering the workforce, or enlisting in the military, the day recognizes the many routes seniors will take after graduation.