Economic Development Archives - Page 13 of 17

Published February 27, 2024 at 11:19AM

Delbert Parks, Vice President, Frontend Manufacturing Operations, MTV at Micron Technology

A quintet of Manassas-based companies emerged triumphant at the prestigious Annual Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, held at the Foxchase Manor events center on February 23.

Against a backdrop of fierce competition from local enterprises, four standout champions were crowned in their respective categories. ARTfactory clinched the esteemed Agnes L. Colgan Award for Arts & Education, while ECU Communications LLC secured the title of Government Contracting Company of the Year. Manassas Ballet Theatre gracefully waltzed away with the Community Outreach Award (11+ employees), and MP Copiers, Inc. proudly claimed the Veteran-Owned Company of the Year honor.

News

Manassas eyes acquisition of Marsteller Middle School property for future park and community hub

By Potomac Local News

Published February 26, 2024 at 1:02PM

Manassas is in talks to acquire the former 20-acre Marsteller Middle School property at 8730 Sudley Road, with plans to transform it into the city’s 21st public park.

The proposed purchase, estimated at $10 million from the Manassas Baptist Church, marks a significant step toward addressing the longstanding shortage of park and recreation facilities within the city, officials said.

Business

Nominations open for Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards & Gala

By Potomac Local News

Published February 22, 2024 at 5:08PM | Updated February 24, 2024 at 9:25AM

The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced the opening of nominations for the 2024 Annual Awards & Gala: A Night at the Monte Carlo, scheduled for April 12 at the Fredericksburg Conference Center at 6:30 p.m. The event aims to recognize local businesses for excellence in categories including Small Business and Large Business of the Year, as well as Entrepreneur of the Year.

“The Gala is a night of tremendous celebration for our area’s business community,” remarked Susan Spears, President & CEO of the Chamber. “As the engine that makes our region run, it is important to spotlight the businesses and community leaders and thank them for all they do.”

Business

Stafford County’s Beer & Business: Unveiling the impact of AI integration in business

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 5, 2024 at 8:00AM | Updated February 5, 2024 at 11:17AM

In an exclusive interview with Will King, AI Strategist and founder of MF Growth, Potomac Local News uncovers the insights that will take center stage at Stafford County’s Beer & Business event on February 7. The event promises a unique exploration of AI’s integration into businesses, offering a blend of valuable information and networking opportunities.

King, drawing from his background in psychology and a Master’s Degree in human factors, shared perspectives on the transformative power of AI in the workplace, and he emphasized its role in marketing. King underscored the challenges faced by small business owners who may lack professional copywriting skills, stating, “If you’re a small business owner, the likelihood that you are a professional copywriter is just really low,” said King.

Business

Chicken tenders a sign of life at The Garrison, police partnership improves safety at Canterbury Village

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 3, 2024 at 9:57AM | Updated February 4, 2024 at 8:24AM

Punxsutawney Phil ~~saw~~ didn’t see his shadow yesterday, and apparently, so neither did his cousin in Virginia, Arthur, who is friendly with Fredericksburg police. Spring is on the way.

Hello and welcome to the Publisher’s Post for Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024. I hope your weekend is off to a great start. It’ll be cold and sunny today. Water’s End Brewery has your weekend forecast and your first look at the start of next week.

Breaking News

Best Buy closure signals shift in retail landscape for Stafford County

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 29, 2024 at 11:46AM | Updated February 6, 2024 at 9:24PM

Best Buy at 1455 Stafford Market Place in North Stafford [Photo: Mary Davidson]

The Stafford Best Buy originally opened in 2008, marking a milestone for the county. Residents had long desired additional retail options closer to home, reducing the necessity of traveling to neighboring areas. However, changing consumer habits driven by the prevalence of online shopping have contributed to the store’s closure.

The closure is seen as a setback for the county, where residents consistently desire more shopping and entertainment destinations. The news comes amidst ongoing anticipation for developments like The Garrison, a 57-acre property acquired by Reston-based developer Pence Group in 2015. The original plans for The Garrison included 500,000 square feet of commercial space, over 400 residential units, a 12-screen Regal Cinemas, new restaurants, and apartment homes.

News

Manassas reports success stories in attracting high-tech businesses, revitalizing commercial corridors

By Uriah Kiser

Published January 24, 2024 at 10:00AM

On Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, Manassas City Economic Development Director Patrick Small I presented an overview of the city’s economic indicators and development projects. The presentation covered various metrics, including population growth, median household incomes, housing values, and the labor force.

Small highlighted the city’s success in attracting and retaining businesses, pointing out the positive trends in property values and employment. The unemployment rate, below the state and national averages, indicated a healthy job market in the city.

Features

Fredericksburg Tourism Revamp: Visitor’s center, economic development office relocate for modernization, collaboration

By Mike Salmon

Published January 23, 2024 at 10:55AM

The current center is full of Fredericksburg maps, hats and sweatshirts. [Photo: Mike Salmon]

The city’s Visitor’s Center and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism office are being relocated to modernize Fredericksburg’s tourism industry and make destinations accessible to all.

The new office, at 601 Caroline Street, is across from the current center and one block south. It is a more modern building with more of the infrastructure the city departments need.

Features

Stafford’s new marketing campaign sticks out

By Kelly Sienkowski

Published January 8, 2024 at 9:00AM

Stafford Tourism has launched a new marketing campaign, one they hope will stick with visitors. The December Christmas Tree Lighting event marked the beginning of “Stick to Stafford.”