In the late 1900s, before smartphones and 24/7 weather updates, people often tuned into The Weather Channel (TWC) for the most up-to-date forecasts; as a child, Tony Craddock tuned in to listen to the soothing background music that accompanied the forecasts. Years later, when his own music was featured on the channel, it was a surreal, full-circle moment for Craddock.  His 2011 Christmas album was picked up by TWC and served as background music for the season’s forecasts.

Craddock’s musical journey began in sixth grade when he chose the saxophone—an instrument he describes as having a tone and command close to the human voice. His passion for the sax blossomed through mentorship, early private lessons, and the influence of his father, an avid jazz listener.


Residents of Ward 3 interested in serving for the remainder of the term, which ends December 31, 2025, are encouraged to apply by January 15, 2025.

The two step process involves submitting a Boards & Commissions Appointment Application online and emailing a resume. The Council will discuss the appointment further during its January 14, 2025, meeting and must select a replacement within 45 days of January 1, per the City Charter.


With snow in the forecast this weekend and the coldest air of the season on the way, your home’s foundation and basement could be at risk. Freezing temperatures and melting snow can lead to leaks, cracks, and costly damage. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your home now with NV Waterproofing and Foundation Repair.

Our expert team specializes in keeping your basement dry and your foundation secure, no matter what winter brings. Whether you need waterproofing, crack repairs, or foundation stabilization, we’ve got you covered.


In today’s fast-changing world, security threats can arise from unexpected events and trends, making it essential for business owners to stay vigilant. Proactively addressing security concerns ensures the safety of your assets, employees, and customers while safeguarding your business’s future.

For more details, visit here.


For 11 years, Fredericksburg marked the new year by dropping a six-foot paper mâché pear from a spot above Caroline Street.

The drop-off platform was a building or the raised ladders of a fire truck. Still, it was a celebratory moment that the partiers in Fredericksburg celebrated at midnight on December 31.


The Stafford County Public Schools Career Pathways Program creates new opportunities for students to explore career possibilities, acquire real-world skills, and prepare for workforce or higher education success. Open to rising ninth graders and high school students; this initiative provides a wide array of specialty centers and pathways that cater to diverse interests and aspirations.

The Career Pathways Program is designed to align with the Stafford County School Board’s strategic plan by offering thematic specialty centers at local high schools. Each center focuses on specific career fields, ensuring students receive tailored education and experiences. For example:


Investigators have yet to determine whether the man was struck by a vehicle or suffered injuries from another incident. An autopsy by the Medical Examiner’s Office is pending to ascertain the cause of death. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. The investigation is ongoing.

The deceased was known to reside at the temple. Preliminary investigations suggest no signs of foul play. The cause and manner of death are under review by the Medical Examiner’s Office. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.


The Prince William County Police officers completed a 24-week course of training in several aspects of police work, including firearms, use-of-force decision-making, driver training, legal training, patrol techniques and investigations.

This is the most recent class of the county’s police academy, which started their training in July. The county hosts a new academy session in March, July and November of each year.


The Stafford County Sheriff’s Department has arrested Nicolas Hartman, 26, of Gainesville for a Nov. 1 hit-and-run where two pedestrians were struck on Mine Road. Hartman was charged with two counts of felony hit and run, and one count of false pretenses related to an insurance claim.

Shortly after 10 p.m. on Nov. 1, two pedestrians were crossing Mine Road near Greenspring Drive with a shopping cart when they were struck by a dark Volkswagon that fled the scene. One pedestrian was life-flighted with serious injuries after a witness performed CPR. He remains in a rehabilitation facility.


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