Fredericksburg

Germanna Community College Celebrates Fall 2025 Graduates at Commencement Ceremony

By Potomac Local News
Dr. Van Wilson, interim president, with Ann Marie Anderson, chair of the Local College Board. (Photo by Suzanne Rossi)

“I returned to school after nearly two decades away. My first research assignment was a D — I almost quit,” Germanna Community College reported. “But a professor reminded me, ‘You’ve been out of school for years. Don’t give up.’ And I didn’t. My joy for learning was reignited. I finally allowed myself to be the person I always wanted to be.”

The college awarded 1,042 degrees, certificates, and credentials to more than 900 graduates during Thursday evening’s ceremony at the University of Mary Washington’s Anderson Center. Student speaker LaRai Diamond-Fortune, who earned an Associate of Applied Science in criminal justice, shared her journey of returning to college after nearly two decades and encouraged fellow graduates to embrace lifelong learning and personal growth.

Go to Germanna Community College Celebrates Fall 2025 Graduates at Commencement Ceremony Read more

Washington Heritage Museums Executive Director Anne Darron to Retire in May

By Potomac Local News

“Anne’s dedication to historic preservation and her strategic vision have positioned WHM for long-term success,” Fredericksburg Advance reported. “Under her leadership, we’ve acquired an additional property, strengthened our finances and deepened our community connections. We’re grateful for her 12 years of service and look forward to welcoming a new leader who will build on this momentum.”

“Over the past 11 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing—and contributing to—tremendous growth at WHM,” Darron said in the press release. “Yet, as much as I cherish these milestones, I feel the time is right to turn my focus toward family and the next chapter of life.”

Go to Washington Heritage Museums Executive Director Anne Darron to Retire in May Read more

Fredericksburg Planning Commission Rejects 1500 Gateway Data Center 7–0

By Uriah Kiser
A city background memo map shows the proposed 1500 Gateway Data Center site outlined in blue between Plank Road and Cowan Boulevard, stretching along Interstate 95 and adjacent to neighborhoods including Great Oaks, Snowden, and the Preserve at Smith Run.

Substation ruled inconsistent with city plan; residents blast water, trees, and transmission line impacts

The Fredericksburg Planning Commission has unanimously rejected a proposal to rezone more than 80 acres near Route 3 and Cowan Boulevard for a massive data center campus, after months of controversy over water use, tree loss, and high-voltage transmission lines near neighborhoods.

Go to Fredericksburg Planning Commission Rejects 1500 Gateway Data Center 7–0 Read more

Fredericksburg School Board Appoints Dr. Brendon Albon as Chief Academic Officer

By Potomac Local News

“I am incredibly excited to be joining the Fredericksburg City Schools family,” Fredericksburg City Public Schools announced. “I believe that every learner, educator, and school can grow, and I am excited to be a part of the next phase of academic growth in Fredericksburg City.” “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Albon to the FCPS family,” Superintendent Dr. Marci Catlett said. “He understands the importance of educating all students to reach their fullest potential.”

Dr. Brendon Albon, a veteran education leader with more than 25 years of experience, will assume the role of Chief Academic Officer on December 15, 2025. He previously served as Assistant Superintendent for the Virginia Department of Education, where he led statewide school-support initiatives and earlier held roles in STEM and innovation, school leadership, and classroom instruction. The appointment follows the School Board’s approval and reflects the division’s focus on instructional excellence and continued academic growth.

Go to Fredericksburg School Board Appoints Dr. Brendon Albon as Chief Academic Officer Read more

Fredericksburg Moves to Release $6M Budget Holdback as Revenues Stay Strong

By Potomac Local News
Fredericksburg City Hall

Fredericksburg is preparing to release a $6 million holdback in the current fiscal-year budget after city staff reported stronger-than-expected revenues and a stable local economy.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in

Go to Fredericksburg Moves to Release $6M Budget Holdback as Revenues Stay Strong Read more

Assault Charge and Multiple Arrests Lead Fredericksburg Police Blotter

By Potomac Local News

An assault and battery charge involving a family member was the most serious incident in the latest Fredericksburg Police blotter for December 9. A 29-year-old Fredericksburg man was arrested in connection with the alleged domestic assault.

Police also responded to a vehicle tampering incident in the 600 block of Maury Street on December 4, where a car was rummaged through. That same day, someone reported the theft of headphones in the 1300 block of Central Park Boulevard.

Go to Assault Charge and Multiple Arrests Lead Fredericksburg Police Blotter Read more

Holiday Magic on Main Street Returns Thursday in Fredericksburg

By Potomac Local News
Shoppers line Caroline Street in Downtown Fredericksburg on Small Business Saturday.

“We’re less than 48 hours away from Holiday Magic on Main Street. Join us THIS Thursday, December 11 from 5–9pm at Riverfront Park for a FREE night of festive fun for the whole community,” Fredericksburg Main Street announced. “Come feel the magic — we can’t wait to celebrate with you!”

The organization highlighted free cocoa and cookies, live carolers, children’s STEM activities, and festive displays, with the first 500 attendees receiving a complimentary Holiday Magic travel mug. The event is scheduled for Thursday, December 11 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Riverfront Park in Fredericksburg, with no admission cost.

Go to Holiday Magic on Main Street Returns Thursday in Fredericksburg Read more

Fredericksburg Parks & Recreation announces 2025 Christmas Parade winners

By Potomac Local News

“Congratulations to our 2025 Christmas Parade Winners.🎄 Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate the magic of the season with us!” Fredericksburg Parks & Recreation announced. “We had an incredible turnout, amazing creativity, and so much holiday spirit.”

“A huge thank you to all of our incredible event volunteers and dedicated City staff who helped bring this festive tradition to life. We couldn’t do it without you! ”

Go to Fredericksburg Parks & Recreation announces 2025 Christmas Parade winners Read more

Fredericksburg Police investigate fatal crash on Plank Road

By Potomac Local News

A 32-year-old Spotsylvania man died Friday morning after his SUV crashed into a traffic light pole in Fredericksburg.

Police say the black Ford SUV was traveling at a high rate of speed around 9:36 a.m. on December 5 when it crossed several lanes at the intersection of Plank Road and Gateway Boulevard before striking the pole. The crash is under investigation, with police citing speeding and aggressive driving as potential factors.

Go to Fredericksburg Police investigate fatal crash on Plank Road Read more
View More Stories