Press Release

Developers Reduce Density, Add Trail Connection in Latest Mayfield Crossing Plans

By Potomac Local News
A rendering of the proposed Mayfield Crossing development shows its location near Manassas Drive and Signal View Drive. The image, presented during the Manassas Park Governing Body meeting on April 15, 2025, highlights nearby amenities including Signal Hill Park, the VRE Manassas Park Station, and downtown Manassas Park. (Image: City of Manassas Park meeting agenda)

MANASSAS PARK, Va. — A major residential project proposed just outside Manassas Park’s borders is moving through its second round of review in Prince William County, and city leaders are taking a close look at the plan’s potential impact on local roads and services.

Representatives from D.R. Horton, the developer behind the Mayfield Crossing project, and attorney Noah Klein of Venable LLP presented an updated site plan to the Manassas Park Governing Body during its April 15, 2025, meeting. The project site, approximately 20 acres located at the intersection of Manassas Drive and Signal View Drive, is nearly surrounded by Manassas Park city limits.

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Electra.aero Secures $115 Million to Launch Ultra Short Takeoff Aircraft

By Potomac Local News
Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short aircraft. [Photo courtesy of Electra]

Led by Prysm Capital, the funding round brings on Jay Park as a new board member. The EL9 uses blown-lift and hybrid-electric technology to offer the agility of a helicopter, the quiet of an electric vehicle, and the cost-efficiency of a fixed-wing aircraft. Electra has already secured over 2,200 pre-orders worth more than $10 billion and is working with the U.S. military through multiple SBIR contracts to explore defense applications.

Electra’s CEO, Marc Allen, says the EL9 represents a leap forward in advanced air mobility, with capabilities that can transform commercial air travel and military logistics alike.

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Five Displaced on Easter After Fire on Smith Street in Stafford

By Potomac Local News
Firefighters gather outside a single-story home in the 400 block of Smith Street after quickly bringing a structure fire under control. Five people were displaced in the April 20, 2025 blaze. Photo courtesy: Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department

A fire on Easter evening displaced five residents from a single-family home in the 400 block of Smith Street, near Brooke Road in Stafford County. Fire and rescue crews from Stafford and Fredericksburg responded to the scene just before 6 p.m. and quickly brought the blaze under control within 20 minutes.

One person was home at the time and safely evacuated after being alerted by neighbors. Two individuals were treated on scene for minor smoke inhalation. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office.

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Civil War-Era Artillery Shell Unearthed at Historic Liberia House in Manassas

By Potomac Local News
A Civil War-era Schenkl artillery shell, still unexploded, was uncovered during stream restoration work behind the Liberia House in Manassas. The shell was safely removed and documented by authorities. [Photo: Manassas Museum]

MANASSAS, Va. — A piece of American history has been unearthed at the Liberia House, one of the most historically significant sites in Northern Virginia.

During a stream restoration project on the property on April 9, 2025, contractors uncovered a Civil War-era three-inch Shankle artillery shell, a rare and potentially dangerous artifact dating back over 160 years. The find was made during excavation work intended to reroute the stream back to its original course as part of a more comprehensive stormwater management effort.

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Lights, Camera, Fredericksburg! Film Festival Brings Indie Cinema to Town

By Mike Salmon
Dalton Okolo, filmmaker and co-organizer of the Fredericksburg Film Festival, reviews shots on his camera during the opening night reception. [Photo: Mike Salmon]

Event organizer Dalton Okolo sported two high-powered cameras as he mingled with the crowd. “This is our second year, we have to figure ourselves out,” he said. The festival is supported by the Fredericksburg Office of Economic Development and Tourism, as well as several local businesses. At the opening reception, it was too early to predict the outcome, but Okolo was optimistic. “There are large amounts of enthusiasm online,” he said. Okolo is joined on the management side by Executive Producer & Experience Designer Wa’ad Adam, and producers Carlos Naranjo, Antonella Membreno, and John Heyn.

Okolo is a director, writer, and producer based in Fredericksburg, known for his Virginia-based short films, including “She’s Mine Now” (2022) and “Missing You” (2021). He is with 1108 Media, where he encourages Virginia-based filmmakers, strengthening the local film community. After the reception, there was a “Shorts Block,” with films “Dirty Towel,” “How to Feel Fullfilled at Work,” and “Waiting for April,” a film by a couple of Alexandria filmmakers Timothy Parsons and Kyle Schick.

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Tour the Liberia House from Basement to Attic in Manassas

By Potomac Local News

MANASSAS, Va. — There’s more than meets the eye at Liberia House, one of the most historic homes in Northern Virginia. On April 19 at 2 p.m., you’ll get the rare chance to explore every level of the house—from its mysterious basement to the sunlight-filled attic—during a guided tour offered in both English and Spanish.

This special “Basement to Attic Tour” invites visitors to experience the stunning architecture of the home and learn stories of the people who once lived there, including soldiers, servants, and presidents. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children. To reserve a spot, visit cityofmanassas.recdesk.com.

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Police Blotter: Strong-Arm Robbery Arrest in Woodbridge; DUI, Trespass, and Recovered Property in Stafford

By Potomac Local News
[Photo: Alan Gloss]

On April 17 at 12:33 a.m., officers responded to the area of Dale Boulevard and Minnieville Road (22193) after a 21-year-old woman reported being assaulted and robbed by three acquaintances. The suspects allegedly stole clothing and food items from the victim, who sustained minor injuries.

A coordinated search using a police K-9 and a Fairfax County police helicopter led officers to Gum Lane, where all three suspects were detained without incident.

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Springtime Sweets and Whimsy: Peeps Week Pops to Life in Occoquan

By Potomac Local News
Buona Peep-etito! D’Rocco’s gets sweet and saucy with this pasta-perfect nod to Lady and the Tramp. Mangia, marshmallows [Photo: Visit Occoquan via Facebook]

Now in its 8th year, the town’s beloved Peeps Show is officially underway, running from April 15 through April 19, and it’s got local businesses, families, and kids competing — and laughing — with displays built entirely out of those colorful, sugary springtime staples: Peeps.

“It’s a lot of fun and it’s a family-friendly event for kids of all ages and adults,” said Sarah Burzio, executive director of Visit Occoquan.

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Prince William County Opens First Official Kayak Launch at Neabsco Regional Park

By Potomac Local News

The ceremony, held at 15125 Blackburn Road in Woodbridge, brought together elected officials, county staff, and community advocates to highlight new investments in outdoor recreation along the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

“These projects have been a long time in the making,” said Seth Hendler-Voss, Director of Prince William County Parks and Recreation. “This kayak launch is just a nice addition to that overall outdoor recreation experience. Over time, we hope to expand our blueway system to complement our greenway system.”

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