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Stafford’s decision to shutter school buildings for Ida was best, candidates say

Stafford County doesn't wait around to see what other area school divisions are doing when deciding to close schools for inclement weather.

With its nearly 30,000 students, the school division is the largest in the Fredericksburg region. Before the remnants of Hurricane Ida swept across our region Wednesday, the school division announced at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday that it would close schools for in-person learning for the following day.

With stormy weather in the forecast, students would stay at home, crack open laptops, and learn virtually or "asynchronously" from home. Virtual learning took center stage last year during the pandemic when school buildings shuttered and administrators across the state and U.S. scrambled to distribute laptop computers to every student.

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Fredericksburg is taking another step forward to become a more walkable community with the recent start of construction off LaFayette Boulevard, which is part of the city’s Twin Lake Drive and Kensington Pedestrian Connector project.

This $2.4 million project includes extending a 10-foot wide paved shared-use path along the north side of Lafayette Boulevard between Twin Lake Drive and St. Paul Street in the City of Fredericksburg. The path will be accessible, with ramps and crosswalks built where the route intersects with Twin Lakes Drive, Springwood Drive, Kensington Place, and St. Paul Street.

The project includes a paved access point to the Virginia Central Railway Trail from the cul-de-sac of Springwood Drive, and a bike repair station will be installed at Alum Spring Park.

The process Fredericksburg City Council is following to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat could conflict with state code—especially with a provision added last year that states that governing bodies must publicly announce the names of those being considered to fill a vacant seat at least seven days before the appointment is made.

Manassas Park, the youngest city in Northern Virginia, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a year-long series of events and activities that began on July 1, 2024. The town, which gained independence from Prince William County in 1957 and became an independent city in 1975, has grown into a vibrant and diverse community.

To mark this milestone, the city will host various events throughout 2025, allowing residents to reflect on its rich history and bright future. One of the first major events is the 50th Anniversary Kick-Off on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Classroom 5 in the Recreation Center.

Grant may look big in pictures, but he’s a small and lovable hound mix, weighing just 23 pounds. This sweet pup is currently in short-term foster care, but he’s searching for a permanent home where he can thrive.

Grant does well with other dogs but could be happy as the only pet in a home as long as he has human companionship. While he craves love and affection—his tail wags whenever someone pays him attention—he’s still timid, so a home with children ages eight and up would be the best fit.

Right now, the shelter is at capacity, and dogs like Grant urgently need loving homes. Please help us spread the word about this adorable pup and give him the forever home he deserves.

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:

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