Potomac Local News

No Dancing Ban Here: Dumfries Delays Festival Rule Change

Published May 16, 2025 at 9:06AM

DUMFRIES, Va. – In the 1984 movie Footloose, a small town famously banned dancing, sparking pushback from teens who just wanted to have fun. This week in Dumfries, a similar debate surfaced over whether the small town is going too far with proposed new rules for music festivals.

During its May 6, 2025, meeting, the Dumfries Town Council held a public hearing on a proposal to revise the town’s Musical and Entertainment Festivals Ordinance. Among the proposed changes is a requirement that anyone under 18 be accompanied by an adult at outdoor concerts and festivals.

News

Stafford School Board Makes It Easier for Bus Employees to Bring Children on Board

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 16, 2025 at 8:58AM

A school bus. Photo: Potomac Local file

The updated policy, Policy 7205 – Access to Division Transportation Services, now allows not only bus drivers but also bus attendants to bring their minor child or grandchild on board during their assigned routes. This change, approved as part of the Board’s consent agenda, builds on the previous rule that limited this option to preschool-aged children of bus drivers only.

What’s Changing?

News

PWCS Students Rule the Court—Again

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 16, 2025 at 8:57AM

RICHMOND, Va. – Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) students have once again claimed top honors at the 47th Annual Model Judiciary Program Supreme Court Round, marking their third consecutive victory at the state level.

According to a PWCS release, Battlefield High School students Anandya Sampath, a senior, and Sakshi Gowda, a sophomore, were named overall winners after presenting appellate arguments before justices from the Virginia Supreme Court and Court of Appeals. Their performance topped the competition, which simulates real court proceedings.

Event

Dialogue for Democracy

November 3, 2026 1:00 pm -5:30 pm

Event location

George Mason University, Buchanan Hall

4379 Mason Pond Drive

Fairfax, Virginia 22030

Add to Calendar

High school students from across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region are invited to participate in Dialogue for Democracy at George Mason University!

Hosted by the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, this event offers high school students an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about democracy, civic engagement, and the importance of understanding different perspectives.

News

NOVA Grads Pack Arena in One of School’s Biggest Ceremonies Yet

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 16, 2025 at 8:53AM

FAIRFAX, Va. – More than 7,500 Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) students were celebrated this week during one of the college’s largest-ever commencements.

Held May 12 at George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena, the graduation ceremony drew over 1,600 graduates and more than 5,000 guests. The crowd was so big that overflow seating and a livestream were set up in a nearby concert hall, according to a release from the college.

Features

Prince William Top Foster Parents Honored

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 15, 2025 at 2:38PM

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Damien and Quadrell Sylvester have been named Prince William County’s 2025 Foster Parents of the Year, honored by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) for their outstanding commitment to children in care.

The Sylvesters, who currently care for a sibling group of three, have repeatedly stepped up, offering emergency, respite, and long-term placements, often on short notice. County officials say the family consistently provides nurturing and stability, even under challenging situations.

Fredericksburg

Heads Up, Fredericksburg: Marine Corps Historic Half Will Bring Road Closures May 17-18

By Potomac Local News

Published May 15, 2025 at 1:43PM

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Runners and their fans will be out in force as the Marine Corps Historic Half returns to Fredericksburg the weekend of May 17-18, 2025.

This year, a new event—the Semper Fred 5K—will take place on Saturday, May 17, ahead of the main half marathon. This family-friendly race will lead to road closures in the Central Park area from midnight to 9 a.m. on Saturday. Expect impacts on Gordon Shelton Boulevard and portions of Carl D. Silver Parkway. You can view the 5K course map here: Semper Fred 5K Course Map.

Manassas

Three Little Bunnies Are Ready for Adoption in Manassas

By Potomac Local News

Published May 15, 2025 at 1:25PM

MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas City Animal Shelter is hopping with excitement as three two-month-old bunnies are now ready to find their forever homes.

According to shelter staff, these energetic, curious female rabbits are looking for families ready to commit to proper rabbit care. “Bunnies make wonderful companions, but they have specific care needs that are different from other pets like cats or dogs,” the shelter shared. “We always recommend doing a little homework first to ensure their new families are prepared to give them the best life possible.”

Prince William

Heads Up, Drivers: Overnight Lane Closures Coming to Prince William Parkway

By Potomac Local News

Published May 15, 2025 at 1:00PM

MANASSAS, Va. – Drivers traveling on northbound Prince William Parkway near Balls Ford Road in Manassas should expect overnight lane closures later this week.

According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, crews plan to close the parkway’s right lane on Friday night, May 16, and Saturday night, May 17, to make repairs to the Balls Ford Road overpass.

Manassas

Date Night Spotlight: SEMIFREDDO Italian Cuisine in Manassas

By Jazbia Chaudhry

Published May 15, 2025 at 11:00AM

Looking for a romantic Italian escape without leaving Prince William County? Step into SEMIFREDDO Italian Cuisine—a charming culinary gem in Manassas offering a warm, intimate setting and a menu bursting with traditional and Mediterranean flavors. With over 20 years of chef-driven expertise, this locally owned favorite is ideal for couples seeking a memorable night out over wine, pasta, and candlelight.

Three-Course Menu Suggestion