FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – City work crews have now removed more than 15 tons of debris from the drained canal running through Fredericksburg and made several key repairs to its aeration system, according to the latest update from city officials.

The city says cleanup efforts are expected to continue through Wednesday, after which the canal will be refilled. That process could take between three and five days using pumps, though rainfall may accelerate the timeline. A photo shared by the city government shows piles of debris lining the canal bed as part of the extensive restoration work.


Part 2: Fixing the Bus Problem — New Plans for Transportation in Stafford

Stafford County Public Schools has faced mounting criticism over its student transportation system. From late buses to no-shows, families voiced their frustration during connection sessions held by Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith earlier this year. In response, Smith is moving quickly. “We can’t wait another year,” he said. “The data showed our biggest bottleneck was at the elementary level. That’s where we had to start.”


FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Agora Downtown is marking a major milestone—10 years in business—with a week of celebration and a few extra perks for its loyal customers.

To wrap up its Spirit Week, Agora is giving customers a sweet deal: complimentary sprinkles and whipped cream with every drink. Those who show up in birthday-themed gear like pins, sashes, or festive attire will receive 10% off their purchase today, Friday, May 2, 2025. It’s all part of the shop’s way of saying thanks to the community that’s supported them for a decade.


MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas National Battlefield Park will unveil a new permanent exhibit, “Faces of the Fallen,” and host Memorial Day observances from May 24 to May 26, 2025, at Henry Hill, 6511 Sudley Road, Manassas.

The exhibit dedication will take place on May 24 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Throughout the Memorial Day weekend, the park will feature guided programs, artillery salutes, walking tours, and family-friendly activities in remembrance of the 3,500 soldiers who died in the battles of Manassas.


DOSWELL, Va. – Kings Dominion is hitting the big 5-0 this Saturday, May 3, and the park is throwing a day-long celebration to mark the milestone.

Guests attending the anniversary festivities will get a free commemorative birthday button, while supplies last. Kicking off the day, the energetic VCU Peppas band will perform at the front gate before the park officially opens at 11 a.m. The nostalgic vibes continue with a special appearance by the KOS band, which also played on the park’s opening day in 1975. They’ll be back under the Eiffel Tower with performances throughout the day.


FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Broadway actor and Fredericksburg native Tug Coker is stepping into one of the most iconic roles in American theater—Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird—as he makes his hometown stage debut at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The production runs May 7 through June 22, 2025.

Adapted from Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a Mockingbird is set in 1930s Alabama and follows young siblings Scout and Jem as they navigate childhood under the watchful and moral guidance of their widowed father. The calm of their small town is shattered when Atticus Finch, a respected local attorney, defends a Black man falsely accused of a violent crime. Riverside describes the play as “timeless and lingering,” exploring “prejudice, compassion, and the courage to do what is right.”


STAFFORD, Va. – The Ferry Farm neighborhood will host its first “Furry Friends of Ferry Farm” guided walking tour on June 7, 2025, beginning at 9 a.m. The 1.3-mile loop will showcase pets from the neighborhood and encourage donations for the Stafford County Animal Shelter. The event is free and will start and end at Ferry Farm Elementary School.

Participants will walk from Pendleton Road to Mercer Lane, Wakefield Avenue, Jefferson Street, and back to Pendleton Road, with stops to admire pets at various homes. At the tour’s conclusion, attendees will vote for a “Crowd Favorite” pet, with a prize awarded. The Stafford County Animal Shelter will also be present with adoptable pets.


DALE CITY, Va. – In honor of National Volunteer Month, Dunkin’ showed appreciation for local heroes at the Dale City Volunteer Fire Department by delivering a sweet surprise on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

From 10 to 11 a.m., firefighters at Station 13 on Hillendale Drive were treated to free coffee, donuts, and $5 Dunkin’ promo cards. The event highlighted Dunkin’s ongoing commitment to recognizing community service and supporting first responders who go above and beyond.


Known for her work advancing equity and education, Raulston helped lead the division through a period of growth, advocating for new school construction, teacher pay increases, and pre-K expansion. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on May 9 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manassas.

Here’s the full press release:


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