Fredericksburg - Page 62 of 71 - Potomac Local News

Stafford County Man Dies in Industrial Accident at Norfleet Quality LLC

Published October 17, 2024 at 3:12PM

An industrial accident claimed the life of a Stafford County man on the morning of October 15, 2024. Douglas Contreras-Zuniga, 57, was fatally injured while working at Norfleet Quality LLC, a company known for providing premium mulch products and a longtime supplier to the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C.

The Fredericksburg Police and Fire Departments responded to the accident at the company’s location on 103 Central Road after receiving a distress call at 7:40 a.m. Upon arrival, emergency personnel discovered that Contreras-Zuniga had sustained severe trauma to his right leg. Despite their efforts, paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.

Fredericksburg Prepares to Open New “Top-Tier” Visitor Center

By Aya Karouane

Published October 17, 2024 at 10:35AM

Press Release:

The City of Fredericksburg is excited to announce the opening of its new Visitor Center, which is moving from 706 Caroline Street to the first floor of the Executive Plaza at 601 Caroline Street. The new location is significantly larger, more modern and more ADA accessible – concluding a 5-year initiative to provide visitors with an accessible space designed to show off the best of Fredericksburg while attracting a larger share of Virginia’s growing tourism spending. The Visitor Center is anticipated to open on Friday, November 1 with a formal ribbon cutting planned for January 2025.

Mary Washington Hospital First in Region to Use Special Heart Pump

By Aya Karouane

Published October 17, 2024 at 10:32AM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:40PM

Mary Washington Hospital has successfully treated its first patient using the Impella RP Flex, a heart pump that temporarily supports patients in cardiogenic shock due to acute right heart failure. This technology allows blood to be drawn from the heart and propelled forward, facilitating recovery or further treatment options.

Press Release:

Man Charged with Attempted Arson at Sheetz Gas Station

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 16, 2024 at 4:47PM | Updated October 17, 2024 at 2:24PM

Rodriguez

On October 11, 2024, David Rodriguez, 40, of Manassas, was arrested at a Sheetz gas station in Fredericksburg after officers responded to reports of erratic behavior and an attempt to set items on fire. Upon officers’ arrival, Rodriguez grabbed a gas pump nozzle while holding a lighter but was swiftly restrained. He was charged with arson, vandalism, trespassing, shoplifting, obstruction of justice, and property damage.

Fredericksburg police press release:

Library Director Rebecca Purdy to Host Community Meet-and-Greets

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 16, 2024 at 1:06PM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:40PM

Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) invites the public to attend Community Meet-and-Greet events with newly appointed Executive Director Rebecca Purdy. As she steps into her new role, Purdy is eager to hear feedback from the community and answer questions about how the library system can continue to serve the region effectively.

Purdy, a longtime CRRL staff member, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the library system. During her recent interview with Potomac Local News, she shared insights into her vision for the library’s future, highlighting plans to build on successful programs like the “Library on the Go” initiative and expand access to innovative technologies, such as 3D printers and other maker lab resources.

Public Invited to Comment on Proposed Route 1 Bridge Replacement in Fredericksburg

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 15, 2024 at 1:44PM

The project aims to replace the existing four-lane bridge, built in 1946, with a wider, modern structure that improves pedestrian and cyclist accessibility along the Fredericksburg Canal Path. The $21.4 million project is expected to begin construction in spring 2028. Public comments are encouraged and will be accepted at the hearing and through Monday, October 28, 2024.

Press release:

University of Mary Washington Enrollment Falls

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 15, 2024 at 1:40PM

From The Center Square:

Large, “flagship,” and more selective schools have generally gained enrollment over the same time. Virginia Tech, George Mason University, James Madison University, the University of Virginia and Norfolk State University all grew in the past 10 years, with the first five averaging growth of more than 18% (NSU grew by just 1%).

Cowan Boulevard to Close for 3 Weeks beginning October 21 for Sewer Main Replacement

By Aya Karouane

Published October 15, 2024 at 1:24PM

I-95 looking north at the Cowan Boulevard overpass in Fredericksburg.

Press Release:

As reported in July, approximately 1,480 linear feet of sewer main is being replaced through the Belmont Apartments and under Cowan Boulevard, which includes the section that failed on New Year’s Eve 2023 and resulted in a Cowan Boulevard emergency closure in January of this year. The City’s Public Works Department and its contractor, W.C. Spratt, have been working to replace the sewer main since late winter. Replacement of this essential sewer infrastructure is now roughly 80% complete.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Set to Reopen After Fire

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 11, 2024 at 10:30AM

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is preparing to reopen after a fire temporarily forced the restaurant to close in August 2024. The fire, which originated at a neighboring tanning salon on August 23, caused an estimated $85,000 in damages to the Fredericksburg-area eatery.

Despite the setback, owner and operator James Wright, a former accountant who became a franchisee of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in 2015, has continued to pay his employees throughout the closure. Wright’s dedication to his team, whom he refers to as his family, highlights his deep commitment to his employees and the local community.

RACSB Partners with Altruix Pharmacy to Expand Access to Medication for Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 10, 2024 at 3:00PM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:40PM

The Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB) has announced a new partnership with Altruix Pharmacy to improve access to medication for individuals with behavioral health concerns and developmental disabilities. The collaboration aims to overcome barriers that prevent individuals from taking their prescribed medications, such as transportation, time, and cost.

Joe Wickens, executive director of RACSB, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “The individuals we serve have unique needs. Altruix focuses on behavioral healthcare and developmental disability services, giving them valuable expertise. The pharmacy team will provide tailored care to the people we serve and offer a valuable resource to our employees.”