Happy Monday, supporters of local journalism in our communities. We’ve got some breaking news and insight for you today, so let’s get started.
Breaking: Brooke Point High School is in lockdown for the remainder of they day. It follows another fight that occurred at the school earlier this month that sent a student to a hospital.
Also breaking at this hour: Best Buy in Stafford will close, marking a shift in Stafford County’s retail landscape. It’s a blow for county residents who say they want more shopping and entertainment destinations — not fewer.
Water’s End Brewery sponsors our weather forecast: Windy and cold today, rain/snow possible later this week.Â
One-on-one: Just back from the city council retreat, Councilwoman Theresa Coates Ellis updates us on happenings in Manassas ahead of budget negotiations. Coates Ellis says she’s advocating for the taxpayer this year, as the average homeowner saw a hike in their property tax bill last time.
Route 28: Transportation planners want your input on remaking one of Northern Virginia’s busiest corridors. We’ve got the details on the study, the decade-long discussion on building a bypass around the corridor, and the threat that forced an about-face among county and city officials a few years ago.
In lighter news: Disabled veterans in Virginia are finding physical and mental recovery through scuba diving, thanks to the nonprofit organization Patriots for Disabled Divers, founded in 2013 in Occoquan by retired Navy Capt. Jeff Currer and his wife Merial are in collaboration with Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta and the Professional Association of Diving Instructors.
Poll: With our story about the owners of a Sheetz in Dale City wanting to rebuild with a drive-through window, we want to know: Do you/will you use a Sheetz drive-through?
Coming this week:
- I review”Jersey Boys” at Riverside Dinner Theater, the show, the songs, and the drink you must try when you’re there.
- A look at how Manassas Regional Airport is preparing for commercial flights.
- A look at Rebellion Bourbon Bar, named one of “America’s Best Bourbon Bars.”
- Plus, we’re making a big announcement about Local Spotlight, our easy, affordable advertising solution for your business or nonprofit that gets you in the club.
This newsletter is made possible by generous support from Dixie Bones BBQ in Woodbridge. Support local, and try some of the best dang barbecue you’ll ever eat.
Thanks for reading, and have a great week.
Author
Recent Stories
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is considering a zero-tax-increase budget for 2025, which has drawn community members’ support and concern. During the February 4, 2025, meeting, parents and education advocates urged the board to fund Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) fully, emphasizing the need for higher teacher salaries, facility repairs, and student resources.
Speaking during the public comment period, Shannon Fingerholtz, a parent from the Hartwood District, called on the board to take responsibility for properly funding Stafford schools.
“Our students, our teachers, our staff, our community require a quality school system,” Fingerholtz said. “Quality means decently paid staff, buildings in good repair, and adequate materials. These all require funding.”
A stunning lakefront home in Marshall, VA, is now on the market for $1,250,000. Located in the Cobbler Springs Farm Subdivision, this colonial-style home offers privacy, space, and breathtaking water views.
This home features five bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, and 3,596 square feet of living space. The main level includes a spacious primary suite, a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and skylights, a family room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a sunroom with stone flooring. The upper level has four additional bedrooms, a loft, and three full bathrooms. The lower level offers a large recreation room with a fireplace, a workshop, and ample storage space.
Northern Virginia saw heavy snowfall, with Manassas and Stafford County reaching 9.5 inches. More wintry weather is expected tonight as another system moves in. A cold front will bring gusty winds and dropping temperatures.
Looking for a romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day? Join the Fredericksburg Symphony Orchestra for their special concert, “What I Did for Love,” on February 14 at James Monroe Auditorium. Enjoy sweeping string melodies featuring famous pieces like Pachelbel’s Canon in D, Massenet’s “Thais,” and a special rendition of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue performed by pianist Thomas Pandolfi. The evening will end with Elgar’s Enigma Variations.Â
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
