“Virginia’s proposed redistricting amendment is a response to what we’re seeing in other states that have taken extreme measures,” Virginia Mercury reported.
“Virginia is ready. And I am ready to sign. Send them to my desk,” she said in urging passage of public safety measures.
A weak system moved through the region Saturday, bringing light snow mainly to the mountains, with some lingering snow showers possible into the evening. Attention now turns to a second system late tonight into Sunday, which could bring light snow or a rain/snow mix, mainly east of the Blue Ridge. While any accumulation on Sunday should be minor for most areas, much colder air arrives early next week, with dangerously cold wind chills by Tuesday morning.
Outlook
“Our office is committed to dismantling criminal enterprises that profit from human suffering.” “These arrests stem from a joint investigation between the FBI, the Prince William County Police Department, and the Virginia State Police,” U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia said.
Following a raid yesterday, Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, federal authorities allege that since May 2023, Kosha and Tarun Sharma, who operate the Red Carpet Inn in Dumfries, took a cut of profits from illegal activity on the motel’s third floor. Between May and December 2025, law enforcement conducted controlled buys of fentanyl and cocaine and prostitution encounters tied to the location. Four other individuals — Margo Waldon Pierce, Joshua Reddick, and Rashard Perrish Smith — were arrested on related charges. All defendants are charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, facing a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison if convicted.
Stafford County residents will have a chance to weigh in on the controversial North Anna–Kraken Loop Electric Transmission Project during a public listening session on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Brooke Point High School, 1700 Courthouse Road. The session begins at 6:30 p.m. and is intended to provide information on the project’s regulatory process while gathering community feedback.
The evening will feature two identical presentations—one at 6:30 p.m. and another at 8 p.m.—to accommodate more attendees. Following the presentations, attendees can visit interactive stations organized by the five proposed transmission line segments located within Stafford County. County officials will be on hand to answer questions, collect feedback, and share large-scale maps to help residents understand how the project may affect their neighborhoods.
Fredericksburg Winter Restaurant Week kicks off Friday, January 16, and runs through Sunday, January 25, 2026, bringing deals and special menus to diners across the city. The event features local restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and specialty food spots offering a wide range of price-friendly options.
This year’s Restaurant Week welcomes first-time participants including Locavore, Smugglers Cafe, and Fearless Gluten Free Cafe. Their addition brings new energy and flavors to the event, which has become a popular tradition in Fredericksburg’s food scene.
Federal and local law enforcement conducted a joint operation at the Red Carpet Inn on Dumfries Road on January 15, targeting suspected drug distribution and sex trafficking activity.
The FBI and Prince William County Police Department executed multiple search warrants at the motel, located at 17005 Dumfries Road in Dumfries. Authorities say the action stems from a multiyear investigation focused on criminal activity at the location. Several arrests were made, though officials did not immediately release the number or names of those taken into custody.
“Voters in two Virginia House of Delegates districts elected Democratic candidates Tuesday in special elections prompted by lawmakers leaving the General Assembly to join Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger’s administration,” The Center Square reported. “In House District 11, voters elected Gretchen Bulova, who won 68.8% of the vote, or 5,599 ballots cast, according to unofficial results from the Virginia Department of Elections.”
“Voters also decided a separate special election in House District 23, [Woodbridge and North Stafford,] where Democrat Margaret Angela Franklin won with 77.2% of the vote, or 2,773 ballots, according to unofficial election results,” The Center Square reported.
Dr. Elizabeth Warner has been elected chair of the Stafford County School Board, and Dr. Sarah Chase will serve as vice chair. The unanimous vote took place during the board’s annual organizational meeting on January 13, 2026.
Warner represents the Griffis-Widewater District and has served on the board for six years. She will take on roles in several committees this year, including the Joint School Working Committee and the Finance and Budget Committee. Chase, who represents the Falmouth District and has served for nine years, will also hold committee assignments including Governance, Legislative, and Head Start.
One of my favorite things to do at Potomac Local News is tell stories about what’s popping up around the corner — new restaurants, new shops, “coming soon” signs, and even businesses quietly closing their doors.
Those stories consistently do well, and there’s a simple reason why: people love knowing what’s changing in their community.
