Woodbridge, Va. –– At the center of a General Assembly recap Thursday night was transportation.
Two state senators and two delegates met with residents at the Ferlazzo Building in Woodbridge to talk about their recent successes during what was a shorter than normal legislative session in Richmond.
Sen. Toddy Puller (D-36) was able to get passed a transit study for the U.S. 1 corridor from Alexandria to Quantico.
“I have Ft. Belvoir in my district and we need this study because we are going to get 20,000 new employees at Belvoir and 6,000 at Quantico,” said Puller. “I tried to get this initiative passed with the last two democratic governors, but this time around [Gov. Robert F. McDonnell (R)] passed it.”
The study one of many new transportation initiatives that came out of the session, which also the passage of transportation plan that will allow the state to $4 billion for projects statewide.
Del. Luke Torian (D-52) lauded the extension of the High Occupancy Vehicle lanes from his district in Dumfries to North Stafford.
“I am very glad the entrance to the HOV lanes is leaving here and will move south to Garrisonville Road, so people can enter the lanes in Stafford County instead of having to wait until they get to Prince William,” said Torian.
He also touted passed legislation that will allow the Prince William County Public Schools to distribute versions of their upcoming budget electronically, which will save money and the school system from mailing 70,000 paper versions each year, said Torian.
Del. Richard Anderson (R-52) has legislation waiting for McDonnell’s signature that would allow anyone who is discharged from the military to get in-state tuition in Virginia. Under the current system, discharged military members must wait for at least one year until they can receive in-state tuition benefits, which are much lower than what students pay for out-of-state tuition.
“With this measure, we get to keep a group of military veterans with a strong work ethic, get them in college, and then eventually get them into our workforce. Hopefully, the governor won’t veto it,” said Anderson.
Sen. Chuck Colgan (D-29) also came to the community meeting.
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If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, look no further than Aria Mia, a sweet little kitten currently up for adoption at Prince William County Animal Services. This brave little one arrived as a stray with injuries to both of her eyes. Aria Mia has already undergone surgery on one eye and will need follow-up treatment for the other. Despite her challenges, she’s shown incredible resilience and is ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
Aria Mia has already proven that she’s not just a cat lover but a dog lover too! During her recovery at Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, she showed how well she gets along with dogs. So, if you’re looking for a kitten who can coexist with your furry canine companions, Aria Mia might just be the perfect fit for you.
Come meet Aria Mia today and see for yourself what a sweet, loving companion she can be. She’s eager to find her forever home and start the next phase of her life in a caring and compassionate environment.
Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.
A report from the Federal Railroad Administration requested by Fredericksburg City Council and Mayor Kerry Devine on this past summer’s freight car derailment blames human error for the mishap, reports the FXBG Advance.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
