Eugene Vindman has apologized for posing for a photo while holding the Virginia State Flag adopted by the Confederate state government during the Civil War.
Potomac Local was the first to report on the photo on Monday, April 15, 2024. Vindman asked the person who posted it to X, formerly Twitter, to remove it from the social media platform.
According to the Democrat, a congressional candidate who seeks to replace Abigail Spanberger in Virginia’s 7th District (Prince William, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Fredericksburg) in a June 18, 2024, Primary Election, he posed for the photo after delivering a keynote speech at the Ukrainian Action Summit in Washington, D.C.
“Unbeknownst to me, in one of these pictures was a flag of Virginia spanning the Civil War era. When I glanced at the flag, I did not link it to the Civil War era. When I realized this mistake, I directed my team to reach out to this attendee to ask him to take the picture down, as it in no way aligns with any of my core values and background. I apologize,” Vindman wrote in a statement on X.
Democrats and Republicans were quick to criticize Vindman today on social media. The most notable, Virignia State Senator Louise Lucas, posted on X, “How could someone who wants to represent us be so ignorant of our history?”
Other Democrats seeking the party’s nomination in the 7th District race chimed in, too.
“One thing you’ll never see me do is pose for a picture with a Confederate flag,” said a former Virginia House of Delegates member, Elizabeth Guzman.
“It’s disheartening to see that someone who wants to represent so many people of color pose behind a confederate flag,” said Andrea Bailey, another Democrat seeking the nomination and a Prince William County Board of Supervisors member.
Republican Derrick Anderson, who’s in a race of multiple Republicans seeking that party’s nomination, said, “Yet another reason why this newcomer isn’t fit to serve Virginia’s 7th District.”
Vindman has raised more than $1.7 million in the race to replace Spanberger, more than any other Democrat or Republican seeking the congressional seat. Much of that cash has come from out-of-state contributors from places like California and New York.
The 25-year Army veteran, originally from Ukraine, was a crucial witness in the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump. He continues to campaign on that fact, all the while facing criticism from members of his party for being a political newcomer and from residents who question his intentions of being a white man running against a field of black female Democrats.
During a Democrat voter forum at the Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Government Building in Woodbridge on March 27, 2024, a white man asked Vindman, “Currently, our Congressional representative is a white woman. Do you think it’s time to pass that torch to someone of color? And considering we have so many strong women of color running for this seat.”
“I’m an immigrant, and I’m Jewish, fleeing a bigoted communist regime. So I understand those perspectives,” Vindman responded.
Vindman has also been criticized for not being active locally in the Democratic Party. Delegate Joshua Cole asked, “I’m sorry – who is this? I’ve never seen this person in our area. At. All.”
During the March 27 forum, Vindman, currently a Prince William County resident, defended himself, saying he has lived in the 7th District since 2016. “My kids have gone to school here. I think for Northern Virginia, I qualify as a long-term resident since I’ve been here since 2016 in this transitory community,” said Vindman.
The three-term incumbent Spanberger announced her run for governor of Virginia in 2025. She seeks to replace Glenn Youngkin (R), whom the Virginia State Constitution prohibits from seeking a second term.
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In 1892, K.N. Goolrick opened the Goolrick pharmacy on Caroline Street in Fredericksburg, specializing in things people wanted, like milkshakes and medicine.
Fast forward 132 years, and the pharmacy is still there, but the windows are whitewashed because this iconic landmark is getting a major renovation as it adapts to the times. And soda fountain fans need not worry; the historic soda fountain behind the café bar will be a focus of the new pharmacy.
Jeh Hicks is part of the restoration of this “beloved Fredericksburg landmark,” he called it in a four-part video they made of the project. In a building this old, reconstructing while preserving history has its moments.
“There are all kinds of challenges,” he added, standing in the dark interior of the structure and examining the different sizes of bricks that were used, the mosaic tile floor that was under layers of flooring, and a second level that was concrete at one time. The tiles dated to “around 1933,” he said.
There were two fires of note and a third fire in the records somewhere, but years ago, documentation was not as stringent as it is today. “Beams deteriorated because of the fire,” Hicks added. Peculiar things were uncovered as part of the project, too. “JW Masters” was written on one beam and sandstone from Aquia Creek was found in another area. One of the handmade bricks has a paw print because it most likely was laid out in the sun to dry, and a small mammal stepped on it while it was still wet.
Several old bottles with thick glass were found in the basement. Heavy beams were wedged in there to hold the ceiling up, and the main floor fluctuated seven inches from the front to the back. “Liberties were taken with the walls,” he said. “It was nowhere near level,” he added.
Goolrick’s has undergone many changes over the past century as Fredericksburg grew. Recently, a carpenter was working on one of the street-level windows. It used to be a double window, but the street had been repaved so many times since the shop opened that the bottom pane of the window had to be bricked up. “The street level was way below this back in the day,” he said.
Out on Caroline Street, there were many gawking eyes, and the whitewash had a clear spot to see inside a little. Ulman’s Jeweler’s Next Door has been the unofficial spokesperson for the project, and people call frequently to see what’s going on next door. “It’s a historic place, we need it to be here, it’s a landmark for us,” said Linda Yohman at Ulman’s. It’s the same thing at Sight Studio across the street. “Patients always come in and ask,” said Rebekah Olsberg, who has her favorite Goolrick item. “I do miss the milkshake,” she said.
The renovation is expected to be completed in late summer or early fall, and a grand opening gala is not out of the question. “We are thrilled to have the chance to bring this treasured space back to life for another 100 years,” Hicks said.
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At least five people were displaced after the fire, according to initial reports.
The fire was visible from two sides of a single-family house. All occupants were safely outside. The fire broke out at 2:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
We’re unclear how many people were inside the house at the time of the fire.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
If you’re nearby, please text photos from the scene to 571-989-1695.
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As an Electrical Alliance worker, you get:
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- Employer Paid Retirement Benefits: Pensions and Annuity
Stafford County Supervisor Crystal Vanuch, recognizing the crucial role of the Fredericksburg Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO) in transportation planning, recently reached out seeking data on the teleworking trends among Federal Government employees.
This inquiry, driven by the concern that a significant portion of Virginia Railway Express (VRE) riders are federal employees, underscores the potential impact of a recall to in-person office work on peak-hour traffic congestion along Interstate 95.
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- Do you love going fishing? Brain Injury Services (BIS) is searching for a volunteer to be a PALS (Providing a Link for Survivors) for a brain injury client living in Prince William who would like to go on occasional fishing trips. PALS is a one-to-one friendship program for brain injury survivors; the program connects BIS clients with volunteers who can help them socialize in the community and rebuild social skills through friendship. You’ll feel great as you enjoy a day at your favorite fishing hole while helping a client get their life back on track following such a traumatic occurrence! Please visit braininjurysvcs.org/volunteer/ for more information, email [email protected] to learn how you can help.
- You can make a difference in the life of a child! CASA Children’s Intervention Services needs volunteers age 21+ who care about children growing up in a safe, permanent and loving home. The staff will hold their next Virtual Information Session on April 24, 6 p.m. – 7p.m. Learn how you can help protect abused and neglected children in your community by becoming a volunteer advocate. Please email [email protected] or call 703.330.8145 to receive the link to the meeting or to inquire about alternate dates.
- CRi (Choice. Respect. independence) is a community-based nonprofit organization with a focus on providing personalized resources to people with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. They are currently in need of an American Sign Language (ASL) volunteer age 18+ to service the public at CRi events. This volunteer will communicate with individuals who are hearing impaired and in need of socialization with those who speak ASL. Strong skills in ASL are necessary and you’ll feel great as you share your specialized talent to help someone communicate with the public! Please email [email protected] to learn more.
- If you’re a teen in need of service hours, we’ve got a fun event for you! The wonderful staff at First Home Alliance is hosting a Community Appreciation Day on April 27 at Veterans Memorial Park, 14300 Veterans Drive, Woodbridge 22191. Volunteers age 16+ are needed 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. to help with jobs such as set up/break down, registration table, monitoring the bounce house and yard games for kids, face painting and serving food during lunch. It sounds like it will be a great day while you help this nonprofit thank the community for their support! Please email [email protected] to sign up and learn more.
- The year is speeding by, and Girls on the Run of NOVA is already preparing for their 5K Celebration being held May 18 (Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax) and May 19 (Pentagon City, Arlington)! Over 100 volunteers age 13+ are needed for all sorts of jobs like Greeters, Water Stations, Cheerleaders and more. It sounds like it will be a fantastic event and you’ll feel great as you support and encourage these youth who have been working hard to build up their fitness and confidence! Please visit https://bit.ly/3TCr3lN to sign up or visit gotrnova.org. Hurry, volunteer slots will fill up quickly!
- You can celebrate Earth Day with Leopold’s Preserve! They need volunteers to help plant 200 donated trees on their facility at 16290 Thoroughfare Road in Broad Run on Saturday, April 20. Two shifts are available, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. – 3p.m. This sounds like a wonderful activity for the whole family! Please visit leopoldspreserve.com/calendar to sign up. Please email [email protected] or call 571.358.2098 to learn more.
- If you love working with special needs youth and horses and you’re at least 14 years old, Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center, 16198 Silver Lake Road in Haymarket, wants to meet you! They’re in need of volunteers age 14+ to spend a couple of hours a week supporting students with physical, cognitive, and mental health disabilities through therapeutic riding. No horse experience necessary, training provided, and you’ll feel great as you help this organization achieve their mission of “Changing Lives One Hoofbeat at a Time!” Please visit rainbowriding.org to fill out an online volunteer application, email [email protected] or call 703.794.5308 for more information.
- If your office, group or club is looking for a meaningful volunteer experience, the SERVE Family Shelter in Manassas needs groups of 5-7 people to provide, prepare and deliver nutritious meals for about 60 guests on weekends/holidays. Volunteers have the option to prepare the meal offsite and do a drive-by drop-off delivery of the meal to the shelter or to prepare and serve onsite in the shelter kitchen (must be at least 18 to serve meals onsite). You’ll feel great knowing you’re providing a home-cooked nutritious meal for those coping with homelessness! Dates are available Memorial Day weekend through the end of June! Please email [email protected] for more information and a list of other open dates in 2024.
- Mark your calendar! Walk MS: Manassas 2024 will be held May 4 at Harris Pavilion in Manassas, and LOTS of volunteers age 15+ are needed to make this successful! Jobs include Event Set-Up, Volunteer Check-in, Route Marshals, Hydration Stations, and much more! You’ll feel great as you get involved with this community walk whose goal is to end Multiple Sclerosis (MS) forever! Please visit https://bit.ly/4cHgvut and to sign up, email [email protected] for more information.
Prince William Parks and Recreation sponsors today’s weather forecast.
Summer Job Alert: Parks and Recreation Hiring Seasonal Workers Now! Want to earn some extra cash this summer and enjoy your job at the same time? PWC Parks and Recreation is now hiring for seasonal jobs.. Camp Counselors, Lifeguards, Cooks and more…
As a cold front leisurely makes its way southward, residents across the region can expect a shift in weather patterns, according to forecasts from the National Weather Service. The front, initially pushing below the I-66/U.S. 50 corridor is anticipated to stall near the Virginia/North Carolina border, marking the transition to cooler temperatures and increased precipitation chances.
The front’s departure is accompanied by a noticeable drop in dew point, signaling the arrival of drier air. Despite the recent warmth, temperatures are expected to dip to more seasonal levels, with highs in the low to mid-70s across much of the area, a welcome change from the 80-degree temperatures observed earlier this week.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, the Allegheny Highlands and Shenandoah Valley may experience scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. While the risk of severe weather remains low due to weaker shear profiles, residents in these areas are advised to stay weather-aware.
Looking ahead, the weather pattern is set to become more unsettled as the week progresses. Wednesday brings the potential for showers, with thunderstorms possible in the late afternoon and evening hours. Highs are expected to hover around 73 degrees, with southeast winds of 5 to 7 mph.
Thursday sees the passage of a weak cold front, followed by the arrival of a stronger cold front early in the weekend. These fronts are likely to bring further chances of precipitation, albeit with varying intensities.
Despite the inclement weather on the horizon, there is a silver lining for outdoor enthusiasts. High pressure is forecasted to return on Sunday and into early next week, offering a respite from the unsettled conditions.
Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce press release: The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce was pleased to award local businesses for their successes, entrepreneurial spirit, and community commitment at the 33rd Annual Awards Gala held Friday, April 12 at the Fredericksburg Convention Center.
With nearly 450 people in attendance including small and large businesses, nonprofits and representatives from state and local governments, the night was a massive success.
Community Impact Award – Fredericksburg Nationals
Beyond their on-field accomplishments, the Fredericksburg Nationals have consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community service. The Community Impact Award was accepted by Robbie Perry, General Manager of the Fredericksburg Nationals.
Entrepreneur of the Year – Latasha Brooks
A “serial entrepreneur,” Ms. Brooks has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to empowering small and minority-owned businesses to achieve their growth goals. As the successful founder and CEO of several thriving enterprises, she has leveraged her 15+ years of expertise to deliver innovative solutions and measurable results for her clients.
Small Businesses of the Year Award – Stevenson Ridge
As a premier event venue and hospitality destination, Stevenson Ridge has carved out a unique niche in the local market by blending historic charm with modern sophistication. Through their meticulous restoration and preservation of the property’s 19th-century structures, the business has not only honored the past but also created an unparalleled event experience that has captivated guests from near and far. The Small Business of the Year Award was accepted by Jennifer Mackowski, Managing Partner of Stevenson Ridge
Large Businesses of the Year Award – Bloomia
Bloomia has redefined their industry, setting new standards of quality and sustainability through innovative practices and dedication to customer satisfaction. Through vertical integration, this company controls every aspect of their supply chain. This not only ensures strict quality control but also allows them to offer top quality, long lasting products while reducing waste and streamlining processes. The Large Business of the Year Award was accepted by Werner Jansen, CEO of Bloomia.
Prince B. Woodard Leadership Award – Stephen Kingsley
Mr. Kingsley served our community in numerous capacities. Mr. Kingsley also provided a life-saving bone marrow donation to a young stranger in need in 2009. From offering financial advice to local businesses, to supporting nonprofits serving children, pets, people in need, and the environment, Stephen Kingsley, Market President for Truist Bank, has gone above and beyond for the betterment of our community and its citizens.
The Chamber thanks the sponsors of the 33rd Annual Awards Gala. Title Sponsor- Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center.
