The planned rebuild of Drew Middle School in Stafford County is moving forward amid discussions about a $16 million increase in costs. The updated total is now $113 million, up from the originally approved $96.5 million in the county’s Capital Improvement Plan.
The additional costs are attributed to land acquisition, off-site infrastructure improvements, and increased contingency funding.
The holiday season will kick off at 5:15 p.m. Friday with Santa Lights Manassas, an annual event for more than 30 years. The tree lighting ceremony takes place the evening before the city’s big holiday parade.
According to the event website, the evening will begin with musical performances. Santa is expected to arrive around 6 p.m., then will greet children and listen to their holiday wishes. Free wagon rides will be available, as well as ice skating at Harris Pavilion.
The organization provides free, comprehensive assistance beyond securing a job through tailored programs and services, offering veterans and military spouses the tools and guidance needed to thrive in their new careers.
Since its inception, Hire Heroes USA has celebrated over 100,000 job placements and confirmed hires—a testament to its transformative impact. “Each hire is more than a statistic—it represents a life change, a family stabilized, and a community strengthened. This is the heart of our mission,” said Ross Dickman, the organization’s CEO.
Join us on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a beautifully curated afternoon celebrating the romance and inspiration of European travel. We recommend arriving at 2:45 PM for the best seating. We’ll begin with a brief presentation highlighting unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic rivers with AmaWaterways, followed by a special screening of Under the Tuscan Sun — a heartwarming story set against the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany and the transformative power of embracing life abroad. A minimum $5 per person donation to Manna Food Center is required to attend, and we are proud to match donations up to $500. You may also elect to donate more. Non-perishable food donations are also warmly welcomed. Raffle proceeds will benefit Manna as well, helping provide nourishment and support to families in our community. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe, enjoy wonderful company, and make a meaningful difference. We look forward to welcoming you.
The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is hosting its Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA to support local families affected by the criminal justice system. Running through December 8, the community is encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys at drop-off locations across the Workhouse campus. The drive aims to bring holiday joy while emphasizing the center’s commitment to creativity, compassion, and community engagement. For more information, visit the Workhouse Arts Center’s website.
Press Release:
Crimson Way, 12/2, 4:15 p.m. Deputy R.L. Hubbard responded to a road rage incident. The victim advised the suspect was following too closely in the area. The suspect would then speed past the victim, nearly causing a collision in the process, only to slam on the brakes in front of the victim. After a brief exchange of words, the suspect assaulted the victim. He was charged with assault and battery, as well as, aggressive driving. He was released by the magistrate on personal recognizance.
West Park Drive, 21/1, 7:57 p.m. Deputy B.E. Vaughn responded to a drunk driver complaint. The caller advised an obviously “drunk” driver drove towards a pedestrian at a local business. Deputy Vaughn would locate the vehicle in question and make contact with the driver, who was rather surprised to see Deputy Vaughn. Despite having signs of intoxication and a recent receipt for multiple alcoholic drinks, the uncooperative driver denied consuming alcohol. His tune changed while before the magistrate, advising Deputy Vaughn “got me.” He was charged with driving under the influence and held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.
Under the new policy, students must store their cell phones in lockers or designated areas during school hours, a measure aimed at fostering greater focus and reducing distractions. Exceptions are made for medical needs and approved educational uses.
The policy represents a shift toward stricter regulations, replacing the previous system that allowed limited use during non-instructional periods such as lunch and class changes.
Update 9 a.m. Friday, December 6, 2024 — Fire crews monitored the scene overnight and will continue overhaul operations with daylight to fully extinguish the fire, as Fire Marshals investigate the cause. Both structures sustained major damage, and one employee of Kid’s Choice Sports Center was treated for a non-life-threatening injury; no firefighters were injured.
From fire and rescue:
A fire broke out at the Eagle Village Shopping Center, located at 1245 Emancipation Highway in Fredericksburg, at 12:45 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
The Fredericksburg Fire and Rescue Department responded to the scene, with additional assistance from Stafford County Fire and Rescue, Spotsylvania Fire and Rescue, King George Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management, and Naval District Washington (NDW) Dahlgren.
Sheriff’s deputies arrived on the scene to find the female suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and, according to a release from the Sheriff’s Office on Thursday, provided “immediate medical attention.” Fire and Rescue transported the female to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical but stable condition.
The case is currently being investigated and does not appear to be a random act of violence, according to the Thursday release. Those with information can contact the Sheriff’s Office by calling 800-928-5822 or 540-582-5822 and visiting them online.
