Prince William

Prince William County NAACP announced that 1st Vice President Nijiama Smalls will step into the role of branch president after Rev. Dr. Karl Brower departs. The transition takes effect immediately and continues the organization’s work on civil rights and social justice across the country.

The branch thanked Rev. Dr. Brower for his dedicated service and the strong foundation he built. Smalls, founder and executive director of The Black Girl Healing Project, brings deep experience in community leadership, mental health advocacy and empowering Black women and girls. She is also a published author, a life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and active in local groups, including Mocha Moms.


News

“The Supreme Court of the United States has now joined the Supreme Court of Virginia in choosing to nullify an election and the votes of more than 3 million Virginians. These Virginians made their voices heard – casting their ballots in good faith to push back against a president who said he’s ‘entitled’ to more seats in Congress before voters go to the polls.” The Center Square reported.

“As governor, I will make sure voters know when and how to cast their votes this year. Because our votes are how we choose the representation we deserve.”


Stafford

Five people, including an 18-year-old and four juveniles, face charges after a mob assault on another juvenile in the England Run area of Stafford County.

Deputies responded on May 8, 2026, after camera footage showed four suspects attacking the victim on May 7 around 11 a.m. The assault stemmed from a prior incident. Detectives identified the group, learned firearms were involved, and recovered a gun during a traffic stop and search. The suspects admitted to the assault and robbing the victim of a firearm. A fifth suspect who filmed the incident was later identified and charged.


Stafford

A new Chick-fil-A restaurant will open its doors on Thursday, May 21, at 930 Garrisonville Road, giving the community a fresh spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Owner-operator Mike Lindblom and his team are marking the occasion with a Moove-In Party on opening day. Guests of all ages who wear cow spots — from a full suit to a simple accessory — can redeem one free entrée or kid’s meal inside or at the drive-thru. The restaurant will serve customers Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. with dine-in, drive-thru, carry-out, delivery, and mobile options. It will also include an indoor play area where parents can keep an eye on their children.


Fredericksburg

The Fredericksburg City Council approved the FY 2027 budget on May 12, 2026, including approximately 8% increases in water and sewer rates effective July 1, 2026, along with a new two-tier consumption structure designed to ensure high-volume users help fund major infrastructure upgrades.

The changes support more than $110 million in projects while keeping impacts manageable for most typical households.


Traffic

Drivers using the I-95/395 E-ZPass Express Lanes should note an earlier switch in direction for summer travel. Starting Thursday, May 21, 2026, the daytime reversal will begin at 10 a.m. instead of 11 a.m. to better accommodate increased summer traffic.

Overnight reversals at 1 a.m. and the Saturday reversal at 2 p.m. remain unchanged.


Stafford

Stafford County authorities have located the mother of a newborn infant discovered May 12 in a small park near Embrey Mill Road and Coriander Lane. Officials say both the mother and baby are safe and healthy.

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office worked around the clock with detectives and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to resolve the case. After reviewing all evidence, authorities determined no charges would be filed. The agency emphasized that the well-being of the mother and infant remained the top priority throughout the investigation.


Features

A group of Fredericksburg women returned from Las Vegas $10,000 richer after winning the 2026 APA Ladies 8-Ball Championship. The team, known as the Viper Queens, defeated the competition at the Westgate Las Vegas late last month to earn the title and bragging rights back home.

Team members Joanna Powers, Heather Riley, Jean Walston and Imelda Samples play regularly in the American Poolplayers Association league at their local poolroom in Fredericksburg. They were one of 256 teams that qualified for the national event.


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