Stafford County Parks, Recreation and Tourism is hosting its annual Candy Cane Hunt on Government Island on December 14. The family-friendly event runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and registration is required in order to receive the activities bag, which contains the scavenger hunt information.
Giant candy canes will be hidden in the woods throughout the island. Participants can use a scavenger hunt map provided by Stafford Tourism to mark off their finds.
Emergency repairs are underway on the northbound Route 1 lane at the Falmouth Bridge, with delays expected during peak times. Various construction and maintenance projects are ongoing throughout the Fredericksburg District, including road closures, lane restrictions, and bridge repairs across multiple counties, with some projects set to be completed in the coming years.
Press Release from the Virginia Department of Transportation:
Stafford County is gearing up for a magical evening to kick off the holiday season with its annual Tree Lighting Event, scheduled for Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Stafford County Government Center, 1300 Courthouse Road. Beginning at 6 p.m., the event promises various performances, activities, and surprises for the whole family.
Attendees will be treated to holiday music from local choirs and bands, showcasing the talents of Stafford’s youth and community groups. For art enthusiasts, artisans and crafters will offer unique holiday-themed creations.
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.
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.
From the Stafford County Sheriff’s Department:
Area of Courthouse Road and Monument Drive, 11/29, 1:34 a.m. Sergeant A.T. Leckemby was traveling on Ramoth Church Road when the vehicle behind him had their high beams on and veered over the double yellow line. Sergeant Leckemby got behind the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The driver had signs of intoxication and at first advised he did not consume any alcohol and to “trust me.” His answer later changed and he confirmed he consumed alcohol prior to getting behind the wheel. The driver was charged with driving under the influence and the traffic lane violation. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.
The Stafford Board of County Supervisors will hold a special meeting at 4 p.m. (not 3 p.m.) on Friday, December 6, 2024. The meeting will occur at the government center at 1300 Courthouse Road, just hours before the board participates in the county’s Christmas Tree lighting ceremony.
The meeting follows a statement issued by Aquia District Supervisor Monica Gary on Facebook. Gary apologized for her role in Mary Becelia’s removal from the Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) Board of Trustees earlier this year.
Press Release from Virginia State Police:
Virginia State Police is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash in Stafford County. The crash occurred Thursday (Nov. 28), at 7:13 a.m. on southbound Interstate 95 at the 139-mile marker.
Stafford County and Fredericksburg City Fire departments responded to a structure fire on Warrenton Road on December 3.
