Stafford County press release | A grassroots effort involving citizens, supervisors, businesses, local organizations and Stafford County staff came to fruition this week when Governor Ralph Northam announced Stafford County is the recipient of an $874,478 FY20 Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) grant. The grant will be used for a partnership between Stafford County and King George Internet to bring fixed wireless internet to unserved people in the Aquia/Marlborough Point and Griffis-Widewater peninsula. “Internet is vital for businesses, those who work at home and of course, students trying to complete homework,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Meg Bohmke. “This grant will go a long way towards solving that problem and may open up solutions in the future for the remaining unserved areas.” The state had $18.3 million in available funding, and 34 localities filed 39 applications for $43.6 million in funding. Awards were made to the highest scoring projects. This effort was Stafford’s second year applying for the grant, after being unsuccessful in FY2019. One of the grant requirements is for localities to partner with providers. Stafford is partnering with King George Internet (KGI). As well, the Stafford County Economic Development Authority contributed $50,000 to the effort. KGI uses the technology of air fiber from towers to connect homes and businesses. For residences, KGI offers speeds ranging from 25 to 150 Mbps with unlimited usage and no throttling. For businesses, KGI provides higher speeds and will customize speeds according to business needs. KGI has provided service for several years to King George County, Westmoreland County and Caroline County.The grant application process was very involved and was successful primarily because of the grassroots efforts and support of many. The package included letters from those affected including private citizens, the Aquia Bay Marina, Friends of Widewater State Park, the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors, the State Parks Director, Stafford’s Fire Chief Joe Cardello, Stafford Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Kizner, Senator Richard Stuart and Senator Scott Surovell.
“My former colleague, Jack Cavalier, and I met with many citizens and knew how the lack of broadband affected not just their daily lives but their livelihoods as well. We knew something had to be done,” said Supervisor Cindy Shelton, Aquia District. “I am so proud of the power of the people to make a difference. We will continue to work towards connecting all the unreached.”
Once the funding is disbursed to localities, the project must be completed within a year. Stafford County will be making regular updates to citizens on the progress of the project and how citizens can receive service via Stafford’s website and social media pages.
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The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion.
The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly connection between the town’s historic and business districts and the planned Occoquan Greenway trail.
“The Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project is one of several pedestrian improvement efforts we’ve pursued over the years,” said Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta. “This specific project will create a safer, more contiguous connection to Mill Street and the town’s historic and business district.”
All Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) locations are scheduled to open at 1 p.m on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This delayed opening is due to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Library officials advise that opening times may be adjusted further if weather or road conditions worsen.
The CRRL serves residents in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Westmoreland counties, offering various services beyond traditional book lending. The library system provides access to technology, community events, educational programs, and resources like homework help, job search tools, and genealogical research. Its facilities include multiple branches, mobile libraries, and digital collections that can be accessed online.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
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Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
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