FREDERICKSBURG, Va. — The future of healthcare in the Fredericksburg region takes center stage Wednesday morning as two hospital leaders address growth, challenges, and innovation — including the possibility of Northern Virginia’s first medical school.

The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce will host its “Regionalism Matters: State of Healthcare” forum from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Virginia Credit Union Stadium. The discussion features Dr. Christopher Newman, president and CEO of Mary Washington Healthcare, and Ryan DeWeese, chief executive officer of Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center.


SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. — The Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy has opened a new 9,000-square-foot indoor firearms range, marking a major upgrade to officer training in the region.

Located on Lee Hill Drive beside the academy’s main campus, the facility features 14 lanes, classrooms, storage, and the ability to simulate darkness for nighttime training.


FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – The folks at Crunch Fitness just told Potomac Local News they’re opening a brand-new, $3 million gym right in Central Park, near Interstate 95 and Route 3 —and it’s throwing a grand opening bash this Wednesday, August 27.

The new Crunch Fredericksburg promises serious fitness with a fun twist, offering everything from Olympic lifting platforms and HIIT turf zones to HydroMassage beds and saunas. Memberships start at $10 month, and grand opening day deals include a $1 signup and the first month free. One lucky attendee could even score a free one-year membership.


FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Local filmmakers say Fredericksburg’s mix of historic streets, supportive businesses, and a growing arts community is helping the city earn a reputation as a place to make movies.

On a recent episode of the Potomac Local News Podcast, Fredericksburg Film Festival organizer Dalton Okolo called the city “cinematic” and “very easy to work with” when it comes to filming locations. “You can go down to the riverfront and have a beach scene, go into town and have an urban area, or step just outside for a rural backdrop,” Okolo said. “Almost any of these businesses will allow you to shoot in there if you just go in and talk to them.”


The Falmouth Bridge, which underwent emergency lane closures and truck weight restrictions last fall, will require a complete reconstruction expected to take more than three years, Virginia Department of Transportation officials told City Council in July.

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Fredericksburg voters will soon have a say in more than just who’s on the ballot — they’ll also help decide what their “I Voted” stickers look like for years to come.

The Fredericksburg Arts Commission announced a community vote on new sticker designs, open through August 25 at 4:30 p.m. Residents can view and cast their votes online for their favorite designs, with the winning versions to debut at the start of early voting on September 19, 2025.


Disposing of lithium-ion batteries is not an uncommon experience, as they’re found in smartphones, laptops, tablets, e-bikes, electronic vehicles and more devices by the day.

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Fredericksburg’s popular Concert by Canoe series is set to return next week, bringing live music to the water at Motts Run Reservoir. The summer run kicks off Wednesday, August 20, with the Shim Dogs performing from 6 to 8 p.m.

Concert-goers can paddle out in their canoe or kayak, or rent one on-site, to enjoy an evening of live music surrounded by nature. Gates open at 5 p.m.


FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – The folks at the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber just wrapped up their annual First Responders Appreciation Breakfast, and it was a big one. Held August 13 at the Fredericksburg Convention Center, the event spotlighted local heroes across law enforcement, fire, and EMS for their life-saving efforts and long-term service.

From snowy highway rescues to swift water saves and daring house fire rescues by everyday citizens, the awards covered a wide range of heroic acts. Citizen Valor Awards went to locals who jumped in to help during life-threatening situations, while police officers and EMTs were recognized for bravery, teamwork, and quick action in high-stakes emergencies.


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