Hey everyone, Uriah Kiser here to share my thoughts for your Thursday.

Locals Only: Don’t miss our Locals Only exclusive interview with the Prince William County Department of Transportation about how it’s working to transform the county’s parkway. The article focuses on the road between the new Brentsville Road interchange and Interstate 66, removing two traffic signals, introducing a continuous shared-use path, and creating unique driving directions for the new interchange.

• The article provides valuable information for residents and commuters interested in local infrastructure developments and efforts to reduce traffic congestion.
• Become a Local today and support journalism in our communities.

Weekend specials: We’re proud to have Dixie Bones BBQ as a Local Spotlight member, our region’s premier, affordable local advertising solution.

• I am so happy we will start posting Dixie Bones weekend specials on our social media to more than 20,000 local readers for NO EXTRA CHARGE.
• When I said having three ads on our website was just the beginning of the benefits of being a Local Spotlight member, I wasn’t kidding.

“Oh, What a Night:” If you haven’t already made plans to go to the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts to see “Jersey Boys,” what are you waiting for?

• The show is excellent, and the songs are fantastic (you’ll probably know most of them, but you might not know who sang them).
• Look for my upcoming post about our experience at the show and the one item I highly recommend off the drink menu.
• I’m also working to get an interview with the show’s lead, which I’ll share with our Locals Only members!

New owners: As reported earlier this week, the historic Kenmore Inn has some new owners. Exciting changes and superb additions are in store, especially if you like Bourbon. Look for our story in the coming weeks.

FREE promotion: Potomac Local News is not just your go-to source for local news—it’s also the perfect platform to promote your community, nonprofit, or business events through our Events Calendar.

• Whether you’re hosting a charity fundraiser, a local festival, an event for your church, or a business workshop, our calendar is here to help you reach a wider audience and make your event a success.

Thanks for your continued support!

In our fast-paced world, Potomac Local News is not just a news platform but a reflection of the vibrant life in our region.

(ICYMI): A Decade of Collaboration with Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center

Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center has trusted and collaborated with Potomac Local News for over a decade to deliver critical messages to Woodbridge, Stafford, Manassas, and beyond communities. This enduring partnership highlights Potomac Local News’ commitment to providing reliable and relevant information to its readers.

Likable Ads: A Burst of Color for Local Businesses

Potomac Local News is proud to introduce the NEW Likable Ad format, an innovative and eye-catching advertising solution exclusively designed for local businesses in our area. When clicked, these ads explode into an array of colors on your screen, capturing the attention of our engaged audience. It’s another out-of-the-box approach from Potomac Local, showcasing our dedication to providing unique advertising solutions for our community.

I Wasn’t Kidding: Local Spotlight – The Affordable Advertising Solution

We meant it when Potomac Local News introduced Local Spotlight as our coverage area’s definitive and affordable local advertising solution for small businesses. For Local Spotlight members, having three ads on our website is just the beginning of the benefits. Stay tuned to witness how this advertising platform continues to empower and spotlight local businesses.

Post ‘Em Up: Share Your Events on Our Free Events Calendar

Are you hosting an event? It doesn’t cost a dime to post it on our Events Calendar. Head over to Potomac Local News and post your upcoming events for free. It’s our way of supporting and promoting local happenings within our community.

Locals Only: What you need to know about the region’s first “Continuous Green T” intersection.

Tomorrow, Locals Only Members, including Local Spotlight Members, can enjoy an exclusive interview with the team that built the new “Continuous Green T” intersection at Prince William Parkway and Brentsville Road. Gain insights into how the county is working to transform the parkway between Manassas and I-66 directly from the experts involved in the project.

Thank you for your continued support!

I’ve worked with Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center since 2012 to help its dedicated team reach our readers, members, and the larger community.

We’ve worked together on health education campaigns, community fairs, ribbon cuttings, and, of course, the pandemic, and through it all, I’ve considered Sentara a valued partner. So valued, my wife and I chose the hospital to deliver our son to us in October 2023.

After all, it’s good to know the folks at Sentara feel the same.

“Potomac Local News has been an invaluable partner for Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center for over ten years, playing a crucial role in communicating our healthcare message to the residents of Prince William and Stafford counties.

In our decade-long collaboration, Potomac Local News has been more than a platform for advertising; it has been a dedicated voice for the community. We appreciate their commitment to showcasing the stories of healthcare professionals who tirelessly work to provide high-quality medical care. Through Potomac Local News, we’ve had the opportunity to highlight the narratives of our doctors, nurses, and other medical staff, sharing their impact on our community’s health and well-being.

This partnership has allowed us to communicate our mission effectively and strengthened the connection between our medical center and the community. We thank Potomac Local News for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing our collaboration in promoting a healthier and more informed community.”

Are you tired of spending your money on ad campaigns on big social media only to wonder if you’re genuinely getting the reach they promise? Do you seek new, original, and out-of-the-box ideas or means of organically reaching your target local audience?

If you’re ready to partner with Potomac Local News, a locally-owned business with the community’s interest at its forefront and with a publisher that treats his clients as part of the team, please call me today, and let’s get to work.

Thank you,

Uriah Kiser
Founder and Pubilsher
Potomac Local News

As we eagerly anticipate the season of love, Potomac Local News is gearing up to celebrate Valentine’s Day in style. And we want to showcase the heart and soul of our community – your restaurant.

I’m Uriah Kiser, the Publisher of Potomac Local News. I’m contacting all the fantastic local restaurant owners in Prince William County and Stafford counties, as well as Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg. We invite you to join us in creating a unique Valentine’s Day feature that highlights the culinary delights our community has to offer.

Participating in this feature won’t cost you a dime – it’s a great opportunity to give your restaurant the spotlight it deserves. We’re looking for your Valentine’s Day specials to include in our upcoming restaurant news round-up.

Here are the important details:

• Submission Deadline: January 28, 2024
• Email:[email protected]
• Subject Line: Valentine’s Day Specials

We want to hear all about your plans for Valentine’s Day – whether it’s a special menu, exclusive dishes, or unique promotions. Our goal is to provide our readers with a comprehensive guide to the fantastic options available in our community.

Your restaurant is a vital part of our community, and we believe that our engaged readers would love to discover what you have in store for them. This is a chance to showcase your offerings.

Thank you for being a valued member of our community, and we’re excited about the possibility of featuring your restaurant in our special Valentine’s Day edition.

Here’s to a love-filled Valentine’s Day celebration, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Uriah Kiser
Publisher
Potomac Local News

Potomac Local News is not just your go-to source for local news—it’s also the perfect platform to promote your community, nonprofit, or business events through our Events Calendar.

Whether you’re hosting a charity fundraiser, a local festival, an event for your church, or a business workshop, our calendar is here to help you reach a wider audience and make your event a success.

Free Event Promotion

For those looking for FREE promotion, our Community Events Calendar is the ideal space to showcase your upcoming events. You ensure your local community is informed and engaged by posting your event details at no charge. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with Prince William County, Stafford County, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg residents.

Premium Post Options

Want to take your event promotion to the next level? Potomac Local News offers Premium Post options starting at only $39. With a Premium Post, your event appears on our Events Calendar and enjoys additional exposure through various channels.

1. Homepage Feature: Premium posts get featured on our homepage, grabbing visitors’ attention when they land on Potomac Local News (1.5 million visitors annually).

2. Newsletter Inclusion: We include Premium Posts in our regular news emails, ensuring your event reaches our 15,000+ subscribers’ inboxes. This direct communication increases the likelihood of attendees.

3. Social Media Amplification: Premium posts are shared on our popular Facebook and Twitter accounts within a day or two of approval. Harness the power of social media to create buzz and attract a broader audience.

Why Choose Premium Posts?

Investing in a Premium Post is a strategic move for those who want that extra promotional push. The added visibility on our homepage, newsletters, and social media platforms can significantly enhance your event’s reach and impact.

How to Get Started

1. Submit Your Event: Head to our Community Events Calendar and submit the details of your event. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.

2. Choose Your Option: Decide whether you want to go for the free promotion or opt for a Premium Post. If you choose the latter, select the package that best suits your needs.

3. Enjoy Increased Visibility: Sit back and watch as your event gains traction in the community. Our platform is designed to maximize exposure, ensuring that your event stands out.

Potomac Local News is committed to supporting local initiatives, and our Events Calendar is the perfect avenue to promote your events effectively. Whether you’re looking for a free promotion or a premium package, use our platform to connect with the community and make your event unforgettable.

Submit your event today and let Potomac Local News help you shine in the local spotlight!

As we embrace the winter season and the snow-covered landscapes, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to every one of you who has been an integral part of Potomac Local News.

Your continued support has driven our commitment to delivering timely, relevant, engaging news about Prince William County, Stafford County, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg.

We’ve got some great features coming up for you next week!

Exclusive Interview with Manassas City Councilwoman Theresa Coates Ellis about the future of the city

Manassas City Councilwoman Theresa Coates Ellis will give us insights into the vision and plans of the city of 43,000 people.

• The interview will take place as the City Council prepares for its retreat, where it will discuss broad policy issues.

Upcoming Town Hall Hosted by Woodbridge District Supervisor Margaret Franklin

We’ll cover an upcoming town hall hosted by Woodbridge District Supervisor Margaret Franklin.

• We expect crime and public safety to be a talked-about issue

Explore Fredericksburg’s New Visitors Center: A Glimpse Inside

Discover the charm of Fredericksburg with our exclusive coverage of the city’s new visitors center, as Mike Salmon reports.

Stafford County Schools Funding Debate: Ongoing Coverage

Our commitment to comprehensive coverage continues with a focus on the Stafford County schools funding debate.

• Caitlyn Meiser reports as the School Board and Board of Supervisors prepare for a joint meeting.

Support Local Journalism: Become a Member and Unlock Full Access

As we strive to deliver high-quality journalism, we invite you to consider becoming a member of Potomac Local News.

• By doing so, you support independent journalism and gain full access to all our content. Stay informed, engaged, and connected with your community.

Exclusive Benefits for Business and Non-Profit Owners: Local Spotlight Membership

For business and non-profit owners, we offer the Local Spotlight membership, providing additional benefits to elevate your presence in the community.

• Join us in fostering local connections and showcasing the contributions of our businesses and organizations.

Enjoy the Winter Wonderland!

Lastly, as we anticipate a snowy weekend, I encourage you to take a moment to enjoy the winter wonderland around us. Stay warm, stay safe, and cherish the season’s beauty.

• Thank you once again for your unwavering support. Potomac Local News is a community-driven platform, and your involvement makes a significant difference.

Warm regards,

Uriah Kiser
Publisher
Potomac Local News

Local Spotlight: Folks, I’m serious about Local Spotlight being the most effective, affordable advertising I’ve ever offered.

• And it’s a tremendous value for small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Local Spotlight members receive:

• At least three ads on our potomaclocalnews.com website (new positions coming)
• Priority posting of announcements and events here in the Publisher’s Post (emailed directly to more than 15,500 opt-in recipients)
• We have 1.5 Million local, engaged readers — authentically local readers, unlike those “local” viewers the big social media companies told you reached during your last “targeted” campaign.
• Flexible payment options that include annual and bi-annual payments
• Plus: I’m so convinced that Local Spotlight members will get such great value that I’m willing to work with smaller businesses on monthly plans to earn your membership in the program.
• Sold $1,620 annually (SAVE 10%), $894 bi-annually, or $149 monthly.
• Contact me today to become a member.

Snow day: We’re expecting up to three inches of snow today, according to our forecast sponsored by Water’s End Brewery. Send us your snow pictures.

Events: Post your events to our local calendar FREE by clicking this link. We reach 1.5 million readers a year, so FREE ain’t bad for that amount of targeted reach.

MLK Day: Reporter Katherine Madere is covering the 39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Program & Youth Oratorical Competition, held this year at Colgan Senior High School near Woodbridge.

New Mexican-style: Amelia Breeden’s story about Anita’s New Mexican-style diner reopening near Manassas has drawn some debate on our Facebook page, proving once again that people on social media will argue over anything.

• “Oh man, this brings back wonderful memories from my childhood.”
• “So many great El Salvadoran places in Manassas. I was actually sad to see this.”

Huntley event confusion: Some on the FredNats Facebook page are confused about the event at the baseball stadium honoring Fredericksburg’s “Huntley,” who won season 24 of “The Voice” on NBC.

• “What fun? No food, no game, no concert? So everyone just stares at each other and worships Huntley?”

Trash talkin’: The Stafford County Sheriff took a swipe at Dallas Cowboys fans this morning after their 48-32 loss in the wildcard playoff game. Full story.

Supervisors: Prince William and Stafford counties Board of Supervisors meetings will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. Our reporters will cover stories about adding classroom trailers to preserve historic sites.

Shootings: We’re following several breaking stories today, including two shootings, on our homepage.

Drop a line: Tell us how we’re doing and send news tips to [email protected].

Thanks for your continued support of local news in our communities.

Uriah Kiser
Publisher
Potomac Local News

Exploding meat: Today, we debuted a new ad format on Potomac Local News for Dixie Bones, and I couldn’t be more excited.

• It’s called the Likable Ad, and, just like a Facebook or Instagram post, you can like the ad and show some love to small businesses that support local news in our communities.
• The most remarkable thing about the new ad format is that it bursts with customizable images when you “like” it.
• In Dixie Bones’ case, it’s exploding meat. What else would it be?
• Please support Dixie Bones and the other small restaurants that are working to provide great food, service, and jobs to their employees.
• As we’ve reported, inflation and a new meals tax in Prince William County have taken their toll on small restaurant owners. So, when you eat out, support local.

An event for your Saturday: “ECPI University Open House; For adult learners looking to pursue their college and career goals in 2024, ECPI University is holding an Open House on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at our Northern Virginia campus at 10021 Balls Ford Rd #100, Manassas, VA 20109.”

• Please submit your events FREE to our calendar.

Wet weather: There’s more rain in our forecast, sponsored by Waters End Brewery.

Chicken head: Mike Salmon’s story about a man who found what appeared to be a chicken’s head in his dinner was the most-viewed story on our website this week.

• Check it out if you missed it.

Restaurant Week: It’s almost time to taste some of the restaurants you’ve been meaning to get to during Fredericksburg’s Winter Restaurant Week.

• Members can read all about it. Please become a member today — your contribution helps us pay our reporters.

What we’re working on: Our reporters always look out for you and the following big stories. Here’s what is coming to you in the next few days:

• Caitlyn Meisner looks at the first remarks from newly-elected Prince William Board County Supervisor Chair Deshundra Jefferson, who promises a new day on the body that governs Virginia’s second-largest jurisdiction.
• Charity McCoy will tell us about continuing preparations for a new passenger jet service at the Manassas Regional Airport. 
• Mike Salmon will show us how Fredericksburg works to build a better bicycle network.

Have a great weekend, and thanks for your continued support of local news in our communities.

Uriah Kiser
Publisher
Potomac Local News

Free water: I was out today with the emergency management folks distributing water to those living under a boil-water advisory east of Route 1 in North Stafford.

• Crews have given away more than 1,000 cases of water from the parking lot of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.
• I’m expecting an update on the fix to the broken water pipe that prompted the situation soon.

New Local Spotlight member: I’m excited to welcome Peden Accounting Services in Manassas to the Local Spotlight team.

• Local Spotlight is big advertising for small budgets, including non-profits.

Events: I like to pull events posted to our Potomac Local News Events Calendar to feature in this post. So, if you’re not posting your events to our FREE calendar, how will I know to pull them?

• Event for your Thursday: “Drawing & Painting Series: Still Life: Join us at the library to enhance your artistic skills and create a beautiful still life! Manassas Park City Library 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park, Virginia 20111.”

Ornamental: ICYM Mike Salmon’s story about Occoquan being this year’s Christmas Town, here you go.

• Please become a member to enjoy all of our local news.
• Your membership goes to pay our reporters, so thank you.

Poll: I posted a poll on the site yesterday following news some public school children in New York City were told to stay home so that illegal immigrants could shelter inside their school.

• I’m always seeking new poll questions, so feel free to leave some in the comments on this post on our website.

Kiser’s Cranium: It’s a random thought, as many are inside my head, but Pringles Suspicious Stew chips are addictive.

• They’re in a green-colored tin but don’t confuse them with the brand’s sour cream and onion flavor.
• These chips have a salt and pepper-like taste, with a few other flavors like onion and tomato mixed in.
• I tried them for the first time, and while they’re not the best-tasting Pringles, I’ve never sat down and eaten a can of chips in one setting until now.
• I still don’t know why.

Hey everyone, here is a quick update on some things we’re working on at potomaclocalnews.com.

We start with breaking news, as Stafford County has just issued a boil water advisory for residents in the northern part of the county.

Meanwhile, Mike Salmon is in Fredericksburg at this hour, photographing the flooding downtown.

• Salmon says the water has not affected any homes or businesses but notes, “Everyone and their grandmother are out here taking photos of the flood.”
• A city official tells us the water is now 18 feet deep, five feet above flood stage, and rising. High tide is about 5 p.m. today. City Dock remains inaccessible.
• We’ll post Salmon’s story on the site this afternoon.
• Sign up here to become a member and read all of our local news.

Meanwhile, we’re still taking submissions from small businesses for our Small Business Saturday updates that post on — you guessed it — Saturdays.

• It’s free to submit your notices.

Also, please submit your events to our FREE events calendar.

• I like highlighting events on our calendar in my Publisher’s Post, especially for Local Spotlight members.

Restaurant alert: The news isn’t all bad today because we’re working on a story from reporter Kevin Sandell about the Widewater Grill, a new dining option in Stafford County.

• Look for it on potomaclocalnews.com.

Enjoy the rest of your Wednesday.