Fredericksburg’s First Friday, “Starry, Starry Nights,” is back on March 7, 2025, bringing an evening of art, culture, and community to historic downtown Fredericksburg. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., explore local art galleries, enjoy Sip & Stroll beverages from participating restaurants, shop at retailers open late, and take advantage of the free trolley shuttle running throughout the evening. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun night out, this event is a perfect way to experience the best of downtown Fredericksburg.
If you’re hosting an event as part of First Friday, you can submit it for FREE using this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Simply fill out the form with event details, including the name, time, location, and a brief description. Submitting your event helps spread the word and ensures more people know about the exciting things happening in Fredericksburg. Don’t miss out—get your event listed today!
Meet Murphy, a three-year-old petite Pibble, currently residing at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter near Fredericksburg. Murphy arrived with her brother, Bake, who is also seeking his forever home. Known for her friendly disposition, Murphy has tested very well with other dogs and is believed to do well with children aged six and up. She loves to run, play, and get her zoomies out, and walks well on a lead.
The term “Pibble” is an affectionate nickname for Pit Bull-type dogs. It highlights their gentle and loving nature and counters negative stereotypes.
The Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter is at capacity and urgently needs the community’s help. Potential adopters or fosters are encouraged to visit the shelter to meet Murphy or any of her canine friends. The shelter is located at 450 TV Drive, Fredericksburg. Visiting hours are Tuesday through Saturday, between noon and 4 p.m.. Please bring other dogs in your household for a meet and greet to ensure compatibility. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 540-507-7459 or visit their website.
Illegal Migrant Accused of Attempting to Breach Quantico Base Arrested Again by ICE
A Venezuelan migrant, previously arrested for trying to breach Marine Corps Base Quantico, has been detained once more by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The suspect, who was initially released after his first arrest, was taken into custody in New York after concerns about his potential security threat resurfaced. (New York Post)
Prince William Supervisors Approve Controversial Transformation Temple Project
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has given the green light to the Transformation Temple project in Mid-County despite strong community opposition. Critics raised concerns about traffic congestion and environmental impact, but supporters argued the development would provide valuable community and worship space. (InsideNoVa)
Local Military Bases Ordered to Remove DEI-Related Social Media Content
Public affairs offices at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, Marine Corps Base Quantico, and Fort Walker have begun removing online content related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This action aligns with a recent Department of Defense order mandating the elimination of materials promoting DEI, including content associated with cultural awareness months such as Black History Month and Women’s History Month. (Fredericksburg Free Press)
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Bari is ready to celebrate in style! This one-year-old girl is full of energy and loves a good party—especially if there’s some King Cake involved. She’s looking for an active family to join in on the fun and give her the loving home she deserves.
Bari enjoys long walks, working on her obedience training, and simply spending time with her favorite humans. Whether you’re up for an outdoor adventure or just need a loyal companion to hang out with, Bari is the perfect match.
Come meet this sweet girl in person at the Manassas City Animal Adoption Center or give them a call at 703-257-2420 for more information.
Manassas City Animal Adoption Center
Address: Visit the shelter here
The parade starts at Prescott Avenue and Quarry Road and continues through the heart of downtown, ending near the Harris Pavilion.
Do you have an event happening in the area? You can submit your event for FREE to our community calendar! Just visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058, fill out the form with your event details, and we’ll help spread the word. Submissions are quick and easy—don’t miss the chance to get your event in front of thousands of local readers.
The discussion over school security in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is intensifying as parents and advocacy groups push for armed security personnel in elementary schools, particularly in overcrowded schools like Covington-Harper Elementary School near Dumfries.
The debate comes after the recent installation of Evolv security scanners in middle and high schools, raising questions about whether elementary schools need enhanced security measures.
At the February 19, 2025, PWCS School Board meeting, speakers urged the board to consider adding School Resource Officers (SROs) to elementary schools, arguing that younger students are especially vulnerable in the event of a security threat.
Advocacy for Armed Security in Elementary Schools
Jen Donnelly, chapter chair of Moms for Liberty, spoke in favor of armed security personnel for elementary schools, explicitly citing security concerns at Covington Harbor, where hundreds of students walk between trailers used as classrooms due to overcrowding.
"I know that we have roving security guards who make regular stops at all of our elementary schools, but in my opinion, this doesn’t go far enough," Donnelly told the school board. "At a minimum, I urge that you find funds in the budget to ensure these children are safeguarded by SROs at each location".
Donnelly also emphasized the importance of securing funding for school security enhancements, warning that federal funding for PWCS could be at risk due to other policy decisions. She argued that prioritizing school safety is essential, even if budget constraints make it difficult.
Concerns About Over-Policing and Budget Constraints
While some parents support armed security officers in elementary schools, others and some school board members question whether this approach is necessary or practical.
School Board Member Loree Y. Williams (Woodbridge District) raised concerns about balancing security improvements with maintaining a welcoming school environment.
"We have taken major steps forward with Evolv security scanners in middle and high schools, ensuring our students are safer," Williams said. "But the question is whether armed officers in elementary schools will actually improve safety outcomes or if we should focus on expanding mental health and early intervention programs".
Evolv Scanners: A Step Forward in School Security?
On school campuses, Prince William County PWCS reported a significant decrease in non-firearm weapons, such as knives and brass knuckles. Over the last school year, these incidents dropped by 72%. Notably, since the implementation of the Evolv system, PWCS has not reported a single firearm on any campus.
The Evolv weapons detection system, approved by the school board in May 2023, uses artificial intelligence and sensors to detect weapons and other threats. Unlike traditional metal detectors, the system allows students to walk through in groups without stopping, reducing wait times and minimizing disruptions. While the system has been successfully deployed in middle, high, and nontraditional schools, it has not been implemented in elementary schools, leading to concerns about the lack of similar security measures for younger students. The school board has not yet formally proposed introducing armed security officers in elementary schools. However, the topic is expected to be discussed further in upcoming budget meetings as board members consider funding priorities and community concerns. The next school board meeting is scheduled for March 5, 2025.
The incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. on March 4, 2025, when OmniRide coach number 3005, returning to Washington, D.C., after dropping off passengers in Spotsylvania County, experienced a flat tire. There were no passengers on board at the time.
According to OmniRide, the bus operator safely pulled over and contacted dispatch for further instructions. However, the flat tire wrapped around the axle and began to smoke, ultimately leading to a fire that spread throughout the vehicle. By the time fire services arrived, the coach was engulfed in flames.
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ROAD RAGE INCIDENT
Richmond Highway and Hope Road, March 4, 11:55 p.m. – Deputy C.T. Richardson responded to a road rage incident where a driver reported being cut off, having an object thrown at their vehicle, and being aggressively pursued by another driver. The suspect, in a white sedan with tinted windows and a temporary paper plate, was later spotted driving recklessly. When Deputy Richardson attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled, running multiple red lights and making an illegal U-turn at the Courthouse Road intersection before disappearing onto Jason Lane.
Deputies searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The victim’s vehicle had fresh damage and was sprayed with an unknown liquid. A beer bottle and a damaged mirror were found at the scene of the original incident. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 20 years old. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.
ALCOHOL OFFENSES
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Stafford County Administrator Bill Ashton presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) budget to the Board of Supervisors on March 4, 2025.
The budget, which takes effect on July 1, 2025, prioritizes school funding, public safety, and community services while addressing challenges such as population growth and state-mandated tax relief programs. The All-Funds Budget totals $1,015,097,345.
