An incident occurred at Stafford Middle School on October 1, 2025, when a student made verbal threats and displayed a knife while on the school bus, according to the Stafford sheriff’s office.
Deputy R.L. Beasley, who was performing his School Resource Officer duties, was informed of the situation. With the assistance of school staff, the knife was confiscated, and the student was charged with weapon possession on school property and threats to kill, according to the Stafford sheriff’s office.
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Potomac Local News is giving away two tickets to see the world-famous Tommy Dorsey Orchestra when it takes the stage at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, October 12, 2025. One winner will be chosen at random and notified by email. Click here to enter the giveaway.
The 15-piece orchestra, known as “The Sentimental Gentleman of Swing,” will bring silky-smooth swing, toe-tapping rhythms, and timeless ballads that defined an era. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Appetizers and drinks will be available, and Riverside is opening a space down front for those who want to dance along. Tickets are $55 online, and the show lasts 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.
STAFFORD, Va. — Stafford County Public Schools proudly congratulates Michael Sidebotham, principal of Grafton Elementary School, on his appointment by U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to the National Assessment Governing Board, the body that oversees the Nation’s Report Card.
The National Assessment Governing Board plays a critical role in shaping the assessment of student achievement nationwide, including determining which subjects and grades to assess and setting performance standards. This appointment recognizes Principal Sidebotham’s extensive expertise in educational assessment and his dedication to using data to support student growth.
A driver was charged with driving under the influence after running a red light at Warrenton Road and Village Parkway.
Deputy A.M. Oliveira observed the violation and pulled over the Hyundai, according to the sheriff’s blotter. The driver claimed the light was green and admitted to smoking marijuana, though he insisted he doesn’t drink due to his religion. He was charged and held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. — Christy Maupin of Westmoreland County has been named Chair of Central Rappahannock Regional Library’s Board of Trustees, succeeding David Ross. Dr. Janet Brown-Page of Stafford County will serve as Vice Chair.
In the past 27 years, Christy Maupin has resided in Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania, ultimately setting in Colonial Beach in Westmoreland County. She is well acquainted with the region the library system serves. Before retiring, Ms. Maupin gained 30 years of experience as a technical writer and editor, as well as serving as an instructional developer for adult learners.
The KeepTheShuttle team claims to have obtained a letter from a congressional staffer confirming that the White House’s Office of Management & Budget has directed the Smithsonian and NASA to examine plans to disassemble the Space Shuttle Discovery to facilitate its relocation to Houston.
The letter, sent by the Smithsonian to congressional authorizing and appropriating committees, warns that moving Discovery would likely require dismantling the historic orbiter. This process would cause “irreparable damage” to its aluminum frame, 24,000 ceramic tiles, and 2,000 thermal insulation blankets. The Smithsonian and NASA estimate the base cost of such a move to be between Z$120 million and $150 million, excluding the cost of constructing a new exhibit in Texas, which far exceeds the currently authorized $85 million.
WOODBRIDGE, Va. – & Pizza’s Woodbridge shop is offering 30% off in-store purchases for government workers who show an official government-issued ID, available today through October 12, 2025. The company says the discount is also available at other &pizza locations. The Woodbridge shop is at 2453 Prince William Parkway, Woodbridge, Virginia 22192.
The offer applies to in-store orders and requires a valid government ID at checkout. Store hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday–Saturday. Customers should confirm participation and details with their local shop before ordering.
Friends, family, and alumni cheered on the new class as Chair Dr. Bob Schneider, CEO of OmniRide, shared opening remarks. Tony Wilson, representing the Class of 2025, welcomed the incoming cohort and passed the baton to new participants.
The class then traveled to “the Mountain” retreat to explore their Emergenetics profiles and begin building connections during the 10-month program, which helps participants explore local issues and grow as community leaders.