Robotics teams compete at the annual ILITE Robotics Off-Season Challenge (IROC). Twenty-two high school teams from Virginia, Maryland and DC gathered to compete on Saturday, October 24 in Recycle Rush®, the 2015 FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC) challenge.
In the game of Recycle Rush®, alliances of three robots driven by students work together to lift totes and recycling bins into tall stacks to earn points. FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Each robot and its unique features are designed, built, and programmed by students. “It’s more than the thrill of robot performance.
Participation in FRC helps students develop professional skills in business, engineering design, time management, teamwork and communication” said Professor Gail Drake, Team 1885 coach.
“Many of the competition volunteers planning and staffing an event of this size and complexity are students.” IROC is hosted annually by Battlefield High School FRC Team 1885, ILITE Robotics in Haymarket, Virginia. Competitors include Manassas teams 2068 and 4472 based at Osbourn Park High School coached by Brian Eichas and team 1731 coached by Brent Leppke from Fresta Valley Christian School in Marshall, Virginia. Lockheed Martin, U.S. STEM and Micron sponsored the event and graciously provided keynote speakers Stephanie Lockhart from Lockheed Martin and Doug Donegan from US STEM.
At the end of the day long event and many hours of robot driving and repairs, the final alliance of three teams won the tournament with a perfect final match. The winning alliance was led by host ILITE Robotics (Team 1885) from Battlefield High School in Haymarket, Virginia, Blue Cheese (Team 1086) from Deep Run High School in Glen Allen, Virginia, and Fresta Valley Robotics (Team 1731) from Fresta Valley Christian School in Marshall, Virginia.Â
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
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.
