On November 6, the driver of a 2021 Mercedes Benz Sprinter van was charged with careless driving following a fatal crash on November 4 near Manassas, which killed a 90-year-old pedestrian. The investigation determined that distracted driving contributed to the collision, and the driver was issued a court summons for the traffic violation.
Press Release from Prince William Police:
His Democratic opponent, Eugene Vindman, claimed victory on Election Night, securing 50.94% of the vote in Prince William County compared to Anderson’s 48.79%. Prince William, the district’s most populous jurisdiction, played a crucial role in the outcome.
Anderson’s campaign focused heavily on voter outreach across the district, particularly in Prince William County. He noted his efforts to connect with voters in the area, saying his team “did well in Prince William” by visiting locations like Todos and other local businesses to address issues such as rising electricity costs. His strategy resonated strongly in precincts like Colgan and Quantico, where he led with 54.90% and 54.70% of the vote, respectively.
With local Democratic victories and federal Republican victories, a large swath of elected officials and political groups took to X — formerly Twitter — to express gratitude, sadness and to celebrate.
Thank you, Virginia. It’s an honor to be your Senator. pic.twitter.com/iyVvFj5uVO
One hot topic for discussion is the cell phone policy in schools—a decision that could shape students’ school-day routines. Recently, the Virginia Department of Education suggested a strict “bell-to-bell” policy, which would prevent students from using phones entirely during the school day, including lunch and passing periods. However, Prince William County has a slightly different plan. Their proposed policy, if adopted, would allow high school students to use their phones during lunch and in hallways between classes, but keep devices out of sight and silent during class time. For younger students in elementary and middle school, phones would need to stay stashed away all day.
If this policy goes into effect on January 1, 2025, students who break the rule could face referrals and might even need to bring home a form for parents to sign. Tonight is the first time the public will get to hear details of this plan, and it’s sure to be a point of interest.
According to Potomac Mills’ press release, the upgraded Food Pavilion will feature contemporary flooring, stylish lighting, and a refreshed color palette to create a more inviting atmosphere. New seating arrangements, including elevated banquet tables, intimate conversation spots, and flexible benches, will offer comfortable spaces for groups of all sizes. The renovation, which incorporates energy-efficient LED lighting throughout, aligns with the mall’s commitment to sustainability.
Bethany Webb, a spokeswoman for Potomac Mills, shared additional details with Potomac Local News:
Throughout the six-week course, inmates are able to develop their communication skills, build their confidence, develop active listening skills and articulate their stories with intent and purpose, a county press release stated.
Nick Baskerville, who coaches the workshop, emphasized the powerful tool that is storytelling. Baskerville is a storyteller and comedian.
Jennifer Snitselaar, General Manager of Potomac Mills, emphasized the mall’s commitment to being a “center of community” in Woodbridge. “We are a very large tourist destination, and we aim to be a reflection of our community within our doors,” said Snitselaar. “Collaborating with Prince William Police to create a safe and welcoming environment is part of that mission.” The mall’s police substation, a permanent fixture, is another example of the ongoing partnership designed to enhance safety and build community connections.
Parent Lauren Lumley, who lives in Woodbridge with her 13-month-old son, Sawyer, said the event provided an invaluable experience for her child. “I thought it was really important for Sawyer to get to see police officers, so the first time he either needs one or sees one out in the world, it’s not so scary,” Lumley explained.
From The Center Square:
Democratic state Sen. Suhas Subramanyam defeated Republican challenger Mike Clancy for Virginia’s 10th Congressional District.
Dumfries voters have spoken, re-electing Shaun Peet, Russell Young, and Brian Fields to the Town Council in a tight race that saw two incumbents retain their seats. The three winners edged out challenger Ebony Lofton, a familiar face in local politics who previously ran for Mayor in 2022.
Shaun Peet, who garnered the most votes with 939 (26.17%), credited his focus on long-term projects, including his “main priority,” the town’s new recreation center. “I want this center to stand for decades, giving our kids and seniors a place to come together,” Peet said outside the polls. “As a Council member, I’m always going to do what’s right for this town, all the time.”
