Fredericksburg

Updated 8 a.m. Wednesday, February 5 – As another major snowstorm blankets Stafford County with over six inches of snow on February 11, 2025, local officials are grappling with Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) depleted snow removal budget, which was exhausted by a previous winter storm on January 5–6.

During a Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting on February 6, 2025, VDOT Residency Administrator Kyle Bates delivered a stark warning about the agency’s financial limitations.


News

The Haymarket Police Department has launched a new initiative to collect and analyze traffic volume data to enhance road safety and improve traffic management in town.

During the Haymarket Town Council meeting on February 3, 2025, Police Chief Allen Sibert shared findings from a speed sign installed on the eastbound lane of Washington Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. The data collected over the past six months revealed that the highest volume of traffic occurs during lunchtime hours, surpassing even the traditional rush hour periods.

“This data is invaluable as it allows us to better understand traffic patterns and adjust enforcement efforts accordingly,” said Chief Sibert. “We want to ensure our roads remain safe and that we are using our resources where they are most needed.”

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News

On Monday, February 10, 2025, the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden featured a special appearance by Chesty XVI, the United States Marine Corps’ bulldog mascot. This presentation was part of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation’s (MCHF) celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary. Chesty XVI was accompanied by his handlers and MCHF President and CEO, retired Maj. Gen. James Lukeman, from the National Museum of the Marine Corps at Quantico.

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, now in its 149th year, remains one of the most prestigious dog shows in the United States. This year, more than 2,500 dogs from across all 50 U.S. states traveled to New York City to compete for Best in Show, a title that comes with recognition, prestige, and a trophy.


Breaking News

Winter Weather Closures for Wednesday, February 12, 2025

As winter weather conditions are expected to impact the region, several government offices, school systems, and institutions have announced closures and delays for Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Below is a list of confirmed updates:


News

Law enforcement and emergency responders in Prince William County, Stafford County, and the City of Manassas handled multiple incidents over the past several days, including a house fire that displaced a family in Woodbridge, two shooting investigations, drug-related arrests, and a series of disturbances and crimes.

On February 10 at approximately 8:30 p.m., fire crews responded to a house fire on the 3000 block of Fillmore Drive in Woodbridge. Flames broke out in the home’s laundry room, causing moderate damage. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, and no injuries were reported. The home was deemed unsafe for occupancy, and two adults and one child were displaced. The Red Cross is providing assistance. The Fire Marshal confirmed the fire started in the laundry room, though the cause remains under investigation.


Manassas

The Manassas City Council has voted to extend a lucrative tax incentive for Micron Technology Inc. through 2035, solidifying the semiconductor company’s continued presence in the city. The agreement, approved during the February 10, 2025, council meeting, ensures that Micron’s annual tax payments will increase by 4% while maintaining a lower tax rate than other manufacturers.

However, the decision has sparked concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger. Multiple sources indicate that Davis-Younger is in a relationship with Delbert Parks, Vice President and Site Director at Micron’s Manassas facility.


News

Correction: This new data center is near Unity Reed High School, near Manassas. An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported Patriot High School.

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved a 24-acre rezoning for a new data center development along Wellington Road, despite opposition from Supervisor Bob Weir and concerns about its proximity to Unity Reed High School.


Fredericksburg

(FXBG Advance) – The process Fredericksburg City Council is following to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat could conflict with state code—especially with a provision added last year that states that governing bodies must publicly announce the names of those being considered to fill a vacant seat at least seven days before the appointment is made.

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Manassas Park

Manassas Park, the youngest city in Northern Virginia, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a year-long series of events and activities that began on July 1, 2024. The town, which gained independence from Prince William County in 1957 and became an independent city in 1975, has grown into a vibrant and diverse community.

To mark this milestone, the city will host various events throughout 2025, allowing residents to reflect on its rich history and bright future. One of the first major events is the 50th Anniversary Kick-Off on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Classroom 5 in the Recreation Center.


Pets

Grant may look big in pictures, but he’s a small and lovable hound mix, weighing just 23 pounds. This sweet pup is currently in short-term foster care, but he’s searching for a permanent home where he can thrive.

Grant does well with other dogs but could be happy as the only pet in a home as long as he has human companionship. While he craves love and affection—his tail wags whenever someone pays him attention—he’s still timid, so a home with children ages eight and up would be the best fit.


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