Good morning, Fredericksburg.

Today local news shows that Prince William County has asked students to join its 5th Annual Law Day Art Contest with work due April 23, Germanna Community College and The Oberle Academy have started a new job skills program at 403 Willis Street, the county approved $4.15 million for a homeless center at 9930 Battleview Parkway, Lake Ridge Parks settled a PPP loan dispute with a $695,000 payment, and the Manassas Park dog park will stay closed until April 21 because of wet ground. In sports, the Fredericksburg Nationals rallied to beat the Salem Red Sox 7 to 4 and will have Alexander Meckley pitch tonight at 7:05 — a slow-moving low pressure system will bring rain and cool weather as the Stafford County Public Schools superintendent said the district must work harder to prepare students for life after school.

Anne and Carl Little were honored on Thursday at Maury Park during Fredericksburg’s 37th annual Arbor Day celebration for founding Tree Fredericksburg (which has planted over 10,000 trees and restored 46% of the city’s tree canopy).

They received a plaque from Councilor Jannan Holmes and Anne announced plans to run for City Council in November as the organization expands its educational programs.

UMW seniors Taylor Munger, Katie Reif and Helen Worku won first place last week in the Eagle Innovation StartUp Pitch Competition with their FlossyPik dental flosser and received $2,500 for its further development—judges praised its mobility-friendly design and noted that nine student teams competed in the contest hosted by the College of Business to turn innovative ideas into viable ventures.

Fredericksburg welcomed last week a new independent bookstore and plant shop called Novel at 212 William Street.

Owner Andie Ayers, a former English teacher and community volunteer, opened the store to offer curated books, unique gifts and a quiet space for conversation — the business also partners with a local plant store to create a welcoming atmosphere.

A Ruther Glen man, Shane Iverson Stevens (45), was taken into custody after a lengthy standoff during which he allegedly shot at a fleeing woman amid a domestic dispute.

The City of Fredericksburg launched its official email newsletter today to share important city news + updates on budget highlights, water system improvements, and spring events with residents.

Residents can subscribe easily to receive monthly details + information on city projects and public safety.

The Marine Corps Historic Half returns to Fredericksburg on May 17 and May 18 with a new family-friendly Semper Fred 5k on May 17.

Planned road closures will affect Gordon Shelton Boulevard and Carl D. Silver Parkway from 12:00 a.m. — 9:00 a.m. on May 17 and will impact Central Park, Cowan Boulevard, Hospital Hill and Historic Downtown from 4:00 a.m. — about 11:00 a.m. on May 18 as events begin at 6:00 a.m.

Open House at 4506 Caven Ct S

4-6 p.m. — 4506 Caven Ct S — $454,900 — Explore this spacious 4-bedroom home in a peaceful cul-de-sac with a cozy fireplace and fully fenced backyard.

Open House at River Creek

4-6 p.m. — 438 Brenthem Farm Drive — $949,000 — Explore a stunning home with breathtaking views and luxurious amenities in a sought-after community.

Puerto Rican Plena Workshop

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Fredericksburg Area Museum — $20, $10 (ages 6-12), Free (age 5 and below) — A hands-on experience to explore the vibrant rhythms and cultural significance of Puerto Rican Plena music.

Soul Line Dancing with Regina

7-10 p.m. — Jay's Downtown Sports Lounge — Free entry — Experience the fun of soul line dancing every 2nd and 4th Thursday in Fredericksburg.

Tea Time at Kenmore

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Kenmore — $20 per person — Explore the art of tea while enjoying light refreshments and beautiful gardens.