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Construction Begins on Wellington Road Shared Use Path

Construction has begun on the Wellington Road Shared Use Path, a long-awaited project aimed at closing a crucial gap in the city’s pedestrian and bicycle network. The new path will run along Wellington Road from Nokesville Road to Prince William Street, offering a safer and more convenient route for cyclists and pedestrians.

The project, designated as Wellington Road Shared Use Path Gap, will construct an 1,800-foot trail segment in a single phase. With a total budget of $1.3 million, the project covers design, right-of-way acquisition, construction, and necessary railroad agreements. M&F Concrete, Inc. has been awarded the contract to carry out the work.

Project Timeline and Status

  • NEPA Programmatic Categorical Exclusion Issued by VDOT
  • Advertised for Construction: September 2024
  • Construction Start: February 2025
  • Expected Completion: November 2025

Improving Connectivity in Manassas

The Wellington Road Shared Use Path will complete the missing link in the pedestrian and bicycle trail network since 2012. Once completed, the continuous trail will stretch from Godwin Drive at the western city limit to Liberia Avenue at the eastern city limit, enhancing multi-modal transportation options for residents and visitors.

One of the most significant aspects of this project is its role in providing the only pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly crossing over the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks between Grant Avenue and Godwin Drive. This will improve access to Jennie Dean Elementary School, Dean Park, downtown Manassas, and the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) station, making non-motorized travel safer and more convenient.

Environmental and Traffic Considerations

Efforts are in place to ensure minimal environmental impact, as the project remains within the existing right-of-way with limited clearing required. Perimeter controls will be maintained throughout construction to prevent sediment runoff, and no significant impact on nearby streams is expected.

Traffic disruptions will be minimal, with occasional lane closures restricted to weekday hours between 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM. This approach aims to reduce commuter inconvenience while maintaining a steady construction pace.

 

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Stafford Middle School Student Wins 2025 Fredericksburg Regional Spelling Bee

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) hosted the 2025 Fredericksburg Regional Spelling Bee on Saturday, March 1, at James Monroe High School.

The competition, sponsored by Access Eye, Fredericksburg Host Lions Club, and the Kiwanis Club of Fredericksburg, featured 14 division winners from across the region.

Emerging as the 2025 Fredericksburg Regional Spelling Bee Champion was Draven Williams, an 8th grader at Dixon-Smith Middle School in Stafford County. Williams secured the championship title by correctly spelling the word “wobbulator”, a term defined by the Merriam-Webster Unabridged dictionary as “a testing device for radio sets in which the frequency is varied periodically and automatically over a predetermined range.”

With the victory, Williams will advance to the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee, set to take place in May, where he will compete against top spellers from across the country.

Coming in as runner-up was Ryan Gould, a 7th grader from Montross Middle School in Westmoreland County.

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Events Around Prince William, Manassas in March

[alleksana via Pexels]
March will be a busy and “lucky” month around Prince William County and Manassas with several budget meetings and activities scheduled. Take a look at some highlighted events and meetings.

Tuesday (March 4)

Wednesday (March 5)

Thursday (March 6)

Friday (March 7)

March 8

March 10

March 11

March 12

March 14

March 15

March 18

March 19

March 21

March 22

March 23

March 24

March 25

March 26

March 28

March 29

March 31

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Mary Washington Healthcare Appoints Dr. Christopher Newman as New CEO

Mary Washington Healthcare (MWHC) has appointed Dr. Christopher Newman, MD, MBA, as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Dr. Newman, who has been with MWHC since 2019 as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Medical Officer, takes over following the departure of Dr. Michael McDermott, who served as CEO since 2015.

McDermott announced his resignation in December 2024 to become the President and CEO of Montage Health, a healthcare system based in Monterey, California. McDermott expanded services during his tenure at MWHC, strengthened the system’s financial position, and advanced its reputation as a leading healthcare provider in the region, according to a press release.

Newman steps into the role with a strong background in hospital operations and clinical leadership. Before joining MWHC, he served as the Chief Medical Officer for Penn State Health St. Joseph Regional Health Network and was key in leading operations for Penn State Health’s Medical Group. He earned his medical degree from Georgetown University and completed his internal medicine residency at Georgetown University Medical Center. Additionally, he holds an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.

“I am truly honored to have been chosen as CEO, and I remain dedicated to advancing our mission of enhancing the health of individuals in our communities,” Dr. Newman said in a statement. “I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made and furthering our goal of making Mary Washington Healthcare the leading health system for our providers, team members, patients, and the entire community.”

Mary Washington Healthcare is a non-profit regional health system that operates two hospitals, Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg and Stafford Hospital in Stafford County, along with multiple outpatient facilities, urgent care centers, and medical practices.

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Police Blotter: DUI Rollover, High-Speed Pursuit, and Strong-Arm Robbery

Fire crews cut a suspected drunken driver out of this car on Friday, February 28, 2025.

Stafford County

Update: Malvern Lakes Shooting
Investigators have provided an update on the recent shooting in Malvern Lakes. The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the victim was a 21-year-old male who suffered non-life-threatening injuries. No further details have been released at this time.

The incident occurred on February 22, 2025, when deputies responded to Malvern Lakes Circle after receiving reports of a shooting. Authorities warned residents about a significant police presence in the area but did not immediately provide information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Sheriff’s Office has remained tight-lipped about possible suspects or the motive behind the incident.

High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Arrest
A high-speed chase through Stafford County ended in a crash and foot pursuit on Monday morning.

At 11:39 a.m., deputies attempted a traffic stop on a wanted suspect in the 200 block of Garrisonville Road. The suspect fled eastbound at a high rate of speed, leading deputies on a pursuit. Officers used a PIT maneuver in an attempt to stop the vehicle, but the suspect jumped the median, causing a crash near Stafford Marketplace.

The suspect then fled on foot, but a Spotsylvania County sheriff’s detective tackled and detained him in the shopping center. Authorities confirmed that the suspect was already wanted in Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Fairfax counties for probation violations. No injuries were reported in the crash.

Assaults
Rappahannock Regional Jail, 1745 Richmond Highway (2/28, 9:37 p.m.) – An inmate knocked a coffee cup out of another’s hand, leading to a fight. The aggressor was taken to the hospital with minor injuries and charged with assault and battery.

Wendy’s, 145 Garrisonville Road (3/1, 1:32 p.m.) – A customer threw food at staff in a drive-thru altercation. The suspect was charged with assault and battery and released on personal recognizance.

Rappahannock Regional Jail (3/1, 12:14 p.m.) – Another inmate-on-inmate assault occurred after lunch. The victim was hospitalized with minor injuries. The aggressor was charged with assault and battery.

DUI Rollover Crash
A 40-year-old Stafford man had to be extricated from his vehicle after a severe rollover crash early Friday morning.

At 12:28 a.m. on February 28, deputies responded to Ferry Road and Braddock Drive for a single-vehicle accident. Witnesses reported that a Lexus had flipped over and landed in a ditch. Upon arrival, Deputy S.A. Fulford discovered the vehicle facing the wrong direction with a large debris field marking its path off the roadway.

Bystanders attempted to free the driver but were unsuccessful due to the extent of the damage. Fire and Rescue personnel had to cut off the passenger door to extract him safely. While assisting the driver, Deputy Fulford noted several signs of intoxication, and the driver admitted to drinking “a good amount” of alcohol. Among the crash debris, deputies recovered a bottle of vodka.

Investigators determined that the driver was not wearing a seatbelt and had an expired inspection sticker. The crash also caused approximately $1,000 in property damage. Due to his injuries, the driver was taken to a nearby hospital.

Aditya Sharma, 40, of Stafford, is charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, failure to wear a seatbelt, and Expired inspection sticker.

DUI Arrests
Poplar Road & Orchard Lane (2/28, 2:22 a.m.) – A driver was found asleep in his truck in a turn lane. He displayed signs of intoxication and admitted to drinking “one or two” beers. Charged with DUI (second offense in five years), refusal, and stopping on a highway, he was held without bond.

I-95 Northbound, Mile Marker 143 (2/28, 11:34 p.m.) – A driver struck multiple EZ-Pass barriers and a guardrail before stopping. Witnesses said he was “all over the road” before the crash. The driver admitted to drinking half a bottle of bourbon and was charged with DUI and reckless driving, held on a $5,000 bond.

Mine Road (2/28, 11:54 p.m.) – A 16-year-old driver without a license was stopped for driving with no taillights. The deputy detected a strong marijuana odor. The juvenile was charged with DUI and driving without a license and was released to a guardian.

Morton Road (3/1, 1:07 p.m.) – A driver crashed into a mailbox and got stuck in a ditch before fleeing. A witness followed him, leading deputies to make an arrest. The driver had a previous DUI in December and showed clear signs of intoxication. Charged with DUI, refusal, and hit-and-run, he was held without bond.

Sheetz, 1175 Garrisonville Road (3/1, 8:34 p.m.) – A driver crashed through a fence and began driving in circles at another business. He admitted to drinking two Modelos and was charged with DUI (second offense, BAC above .2) and hit-and-run, held without bond.
Cambridge Street & Manning Drive (3/1, 11:37 p.m.) – A driver was pulled over for going 61 MPH in a 45 MPH zone. Initially denying alcohol consumption, she later admitted to bar-hopping before driving. She was charged with DUI and speeding, held on a $2,500 bond.

Larcenies
Weis, 282 Deacon Road (3/1, 4:44 p.m.) – A woman stole multiple meats and seasonings before being stopped by a deputy. She was issued a shoplifting summons.

Trek Bicycle, 2773 Richmond Highway (3/1, 5:01 p.m.) – A man acting erratically attempted to steal $1,000 worth of merchandise. He was found intoxicated and admitted to shoplifting. Charged with public intoxication and shoplifting, he was held pending a bond hearing.

Public Intoxication
Dunbar Drive (2/27, 10:52 p.m.) – Two unwelcome intoxicated guests were removed from a residence and arrested for public intoxication.
Arby’s, 164 Warrenton Road (2/28, 3:39 p.m.) – A man was found passed out in the bathroom with an open alcohol container in his hoodie. Charged with public intoxication.
Cartwell Drive (2/28, 8:47 p.m.) – A man called 911 claiming Osama Bin Laden was in the area. Deputies found him publicly intoxicated after drinking a bottle of vodka. Charged with public intoxication.
Wawa, 105 Garrisonville Road (2/28, 9:02 p.m.) – A verbal argument over customer service led to an arrest for public intoxication.

Prince William County 

Strong-Arm Robbery
Lindsay Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Manassas (3/2, 11:37 a.m.) – A man punched an employee and stole a gray 2022 BMW M3. The suspect is described as a bald Black male with a muscular build, wearing dark clothing.

Arrests
Malicious Wounding & Arson (3/1, 9:39 p.m.) – A 29-year-old woman was assaulted and strangled with a shoelace before the suspect attempted to set fire to the home. Jose Adony AREVALO GARAY, 29, was charged with malicious wounding, strangulation, arson, and domestic assault & battery. Held without bond.

Assault on LEO (3/2, 10:55 p.m.) – A drunk driver resisted arrest, then kicked an officer at the Adult Detention Center. Carlos Mauricio DINARTE Jr., 27, was charged with assault on LEO, obstruction, DUI, and refusal. Held without bond.

Attempted Malicious Wounding & Assault on LEO (3/1, 9:53 p.m.) – A domestic dispute escalated when the suspect brandished a knife at a woman, then pushed an officer. Diego Manuel VEGA, 37, was charged with attempted malicious wounding, assault on LEO, and obstruction.

Assault on LEO (3/3, 12:58 a.m.) – During a domestic dispute, the suspect spat on multiple officers. Brianna Lee POUNDS, 18, was charged with three counts of assault on LEO and domestic assault. Held without bond.

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Tin Cannon Brewing Company Announces Closure After a Decade in Business

After more than ten years of bringing craft beer and community together, Tin Cannon Brewing Company is closing its doors. The announcement was made by co-founders John Hilkert and Aaron Ludwig, who shared a heartfelt message with their patrons, reflecting on their journey as small business owners and their decision to move on to new adventures.

"Tin Cannon Brewing Company has had the pleasure of bringing a large part of the community together for over ten years," the owners stated. "We have met so many wonderful people, formed amazing friendships, made a difference through important fundraisers, and created a ‘Cheers’ taproom atmosphere with our friendly staff, delicious beers, and fun events."

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Firefighters Contain Mobile Home, Brush Fire

[Photo: Stafford fire and rescue]
Fire crews from Stafford County and Quantico Marine Corps Base were called to a house fire in the 2900 block of Richmond Highway (Route 1) in North Stafford on Saturday, March 1. The incident occurred just before 12:30 p.m.

Firefighters found a single-wide mobile home fully engulfed in flames, with fire spreading to nearby wooded areas. Crews worked to contain the fire and brought the structure fire under control in less than 15 minutes, according to Stafford fire and rescue spokeswoman Katie Brady. The brush fire, which spread across one acre, was contained within 30 minutes, she added.

The mobile home was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Multiple passersby reported the fire. No residents were displaced, and no injuries were reported.

The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Quantico Fire and Emergency Services assisted on the scene.

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Police Blotter: Assault Arrests in Woodbridge, Olde Forge Mobbing, Attempted Vehicle Theft in Stafford

[Photo: Alan Gloss]
Prince William County

Malicious Wounding – Arrest
On February 27, police arrested Dorrell Montea Farmer, 25, of Triangle, in connection with an assault on February 26 in the 16600 block of River Ridge Blvd. in Woodbridge. The incident involved a tow operator attempting to repossess a vehicle when Farmer attacked, striking and biting the operator, police said. Later that day, Farmer confronted the operator again in the 13600 block of Richmond Hwy. and struck him in the face, breaking his glasses. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Farmer has been charged with malicious wounding, two counts of assault & battery, and destruction of property.

Aggravated Malicious Wounding – Suspect Wanted
On February 27 at approximately 2:02 AM, police responded to Linden Park Apartments in Triangle for an assault. A 23-year-old woman was reportedly attacked inside a vehicle by Cecilia Anne Keefer, 34, of Triangle, following a verbal altercation. Keefer struck the victim multiple times before hitting her with the vehicle and driving off, police said. The victim was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Keefer is wanted for aggravated malicious wounding, felony hit & run, and assault & battery.

Assault & Battery on Law Enforcement Officer – Arrest
On February 27 at 3:25 PM, officers responded to a report of an intoxicated individual in the 2600 block of Prince William Pkwy in Woodbridge. When officers attempted to detain Angela Kathleen Klosek, 49, of Glendale, Md., she resisted and scratched an officer, police said. She was taken to a hospital for treatment before being transported to the Adult Detention Center. Klosek is charged with assault & battery on a law enforcement officer, obstruction of justice, and disorderly conduct.

Stafford County

Olde Forge Mobbing – Three charged with assault
Three individuals were arrested after escalating a verbal dispute into a physical altercation on Olde Forge Drive.

On February 26 at 7:12 PM, Deputies C.R. Newman and C.M. Sterne responded to a disturbance in the area. Callers reported that an argument had turned “kind of physical,” police said.

Upon arrival, deputies received conflicting accounts of the incident. The female involved alleged that her now ex-boyfriend attempted to pull her into his vehicle forcibly. However, she had no visible signs of assault, and inconsistencies arose in her statement, police said.

The male, however, stated that the argument turned physical when his ex-girlfriend assaulted him. She allegedly refused to exit his vehicle as he tried to separate himself. At that moment, her two brothers reportedly approached aggressively and attacked him, police said. The male victim sustained minor injuries and later found that multiple personal items—including the keys to his Dodge Charger—had been taken from his vehicle, police said.

A neutral witness corroborated the male victim’s account. As a result, deputies determined that the female and her two brothers were the primary aggressors.

Keily Mazariegos Calderon, 18, of Stafford is charged with assault and battery and held at Rappahannock Regional Jail on a $2,500 secured bond.

Roy Mazariegos Calderon, 19, of Stafford, and Ander Mazariegos Calderon, 30, of Stafford were charged with assault and battery, assault by mob, grand larceny, and tampering with a vehicle. They were held without bond.

Disturbance – False 911 Call Leads to Warrant
On February 27 at 5:15 AM, Sergeant R.S. Dominguez responded to White Pine Circle for a disturbance. The caller provided vague statements about an alleged assault but later admitted no emergency had occurred. Since this was a repeated false report, a warrant for misuse of 911 was obtained.

Larceny – Package Theft
On February 27 at 2:26 PM, Deputy R.L. Beasley responded to a residence on Hunter Trail for a reported theft. The victim stated that pet medication was stolen from an opened package. This was the third time the victim had experienced such a theft.

Larceny – Shed Break-In
On February 27 at 4:04 PM, Deputy C.M. Sterne responded to the Gulf gas station at 372 Warrenton Road regarding a larceny. A contractor reported that a shed on the property had been unlawfully entered and damaged, with various items stolen.

Vandalism – Attempted Vehicle Theft
On February 27 at 9:58 PM, Deputy B.E. Vaughn responded to Pinnacle Drive for a vandalism report. The caller reported that a vehicle appeared to have been tampered with. Upon arrival, Deputy Vaughn found a running vehicle with a smashed window and damage to the ignition, indicating an attempted theft. Investigators believe the suspect was likely spooked during the attempt. The case remains under investigation.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact law enforcement.

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Renovations Coming to Signal Hill Park in Manassas Park

[Photo: Manassas Park Parks and Recreation]
The City of Manassas Park’s Department of Parks and Recreation will begin renovations at Signal Hill Park in March. The updates include improvements to the pavilion and tennis courts and are scheduled to finish by the end of April.

Pavilion Renovation Begins March 3

Work on the pavilion will start Monday, March 3, beginning with a roof replacement. Additional improvements will follow, with a tentative completion date of April 30. The pavilion will be off-limits, and restrooms will be unavailable during construction. Three portable toilets will be installed on March 14 before athletic fields and outdoor spaces reopen on March 15.

Tennis Court Renovation Starts March 8

Work on the tennis courts will begin Saturday, March 8, starting with fence removal and asphalt milling. After new asphalt is poured, it will set for 30 days before painting and line marking. New fencing will be installed last. Safety cones and tape will mark construction zones.

Park Background and Other Parks in Manassas Park
Signal Hill Park is at 9300 Signal View Drive and includes a playground, picnic areas, trails, athletic fields, basketball courts, and Signal Bay Water Park. It was a Confederate signal station in the First Battle of Bull Run.

Other Manassas Park parks include:

  • Baker Street Park – A playground and open space.
  • Scott Drive Park – Open green space.
  • Manassas Park Community Center – Programs and events.
  • Blooms Park – 4.25 miles of trails and a Civil War encampment.
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Simply Perfect Stafford’s Premier Wedding Expo Set for March 8

Couples planning their big day will have a unique opportunity to explore premier wedding venues, meet top vendors, and gather inspiration at the first annual Simply Perfect Stafford’s Premier Wedding Expo on March 8, 2025. The event will take place at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Stafford from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a showcase of Stafford County’s finest wedding resources.

Lisa Logan, Tourism Program Director for Stafford County, emphasized the importance of this expo in providing engaged couples with a one-stop shop for their wedding planning needs. “We are bringing together over 40 vendors offering everything from photography and catering to floral design and entertainment,” Logan said. “We’ll also have door prizes throughout the day and an opportunity for guests to learn more about the incredible venues Stafford County has to offer.”

The expo aims to highlight Stafford County as a premier wedding destination, offering venues that provide a scenic and cost-effective alternative to Northern Virginia’s high-priced wedding market. Logan pointed to Potomac Point Winery and Gari Melchers Home and Studio as just two of the region’s hidden gems.

“Potomac Point Winery is designed to resemble a Tuscan estate, creating an elegant and picturesque setting for weddings,” Logan explained. “Many people don’t realize how close it is to Washington, D.C., yet when you step onto the grounds, you feel like you’re in the heart of Italy.”

Meanwhile, Gari Melchers Home and Studio, a National Historic Landmark, offers a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. “The gardens in the springtime are breathtaking, and the backdrop of the historic home and art gallery creates a timeless setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions,” Logan said.

The idea for a Stafford-based wedding expo originated from a brainstorming session among local tourism officials. “Our team discussed what would benefit Stafford County, and our marketing manager proposed the Simply Perfect Wedding Expo,” Logan shared. “We saw a need for a central event to showcase everything Stafford has to offer to couples planning their weddings, rather than having them travel elsewhere.”

The Simply Perfect Stafford’s Premier Wedding Expo is free to attend, and guests can pre-register at TourStaffordVA.com to receive a complimentary goodie bag. “Many vendors have generously donated door prizes, so attendees will have plenty of chances to win exciting giveaways throughout the day,” Logan added.

For more information and to pre-register, visit tourstaffordva.com.

Most couples plan their weddings between January and March, right after the holiday engagement season.

June, September, and October are the most popular months for weddings in the U.S. The average wedding costs around $30,000 in the U.S., though this varies by location.

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