Good morning, Fredericksburg.

A new dog park in Stafford will open soon.

The county held a contest to name the park— the winning name will be revealed at the opening.

UMW launched the PING program this summer—local high school students engaged in hands-on astrophysics by throwing colorful, paint-soaked cotton balls at canvases while learning about stars and circuits under UMW mentors' guidance.

Fredericksburg's only contested Ward 3 school board race has Sarah Stelmok, a special education advocate, and former teacher Annie Langdon vying for the seat this November.

Stelmok aims to strengthen teacher training for special needs students (while Langdon focuses on raising accountability within the division), based on their personal experiences with the local schools.

Three candidates are running for the Garrisonville District seat on the Stafford County School Board, with incumbent Maureen Siegmund, former challenger Wanda Blackwell, and first-time candidate Stephanie Mojica promising to boost transparency and parental engagement—each using different outreach methods. Siegmund will launch her re-election campaign with a Family Literacy Night on July 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Porter Library, while early voting begins in September ahead of the November ballot.

Virginia Railway Express will propose a 5% fare increase for FY2027 to help cover rising operating costs and low fare revenue, and the hike will affect all ticket types starting July 1 if approved.

The VRE Operations Board will review the plan in September 2025 — a public comment process will follow in fall before a final vote is held.

Local officials announced extensive road work projects in the Fredericksburg District that will impact I-95, Route 1, and several county roads with lane closures, bridge inspections, and pavement marking scheduled at different times from early morning until late evening; some projects will conclude as late as 2027—motorists are advised to plan for detours.

State and local officials plan to widen Route 2/17 near Dixon Park by expanding the road to four lanes and adding a 10-foot shared-use path to ease congestion and improve safety.

A public hearing is held today at the Elks Lodge—construction bids will be advertised in 2029 and crews are expected to complete the work within 24—30 months.

After Hurricane Helene caused major damage in southwest Virginia last fall, Governor Glenn Youngkin said his state is ready to take on more recovery work.

As a member of the FEMA Review Council, he argued that states must help cover costs — federal support remains critical — with changes expected this fall.

Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center celebrated a ribbon-cutting event hosted by the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce to mark its ten-year milestone statewide and five years at its Fredericksburg office on Lafayette Boulevard in Spotsylvania County.

Founder Dr. Danielle VonDerLinden said the clinic has helped more than 16,000 patients—receiving praise from local leaders including Virginia Delegate Bobby Orrock—and plans to expand its services.

Soul Line Dancing with Regina

7-10 p.m. — Jay's Downtown Sports Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of soul line dancing every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.

Open House

4-6 p.m. — 1719 Idlewild Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA — Free entry — Explore a charming 3 bedroom home in the desirable Village of Idlewild community.

Rock 101 Music Camp

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — School of Rock — Cost not specified — An engaging camp for young aspiring musicians to learn classic rock and perform live.

Spotsy Summer Classic Car Show

2-6 p.m. — 7100 Steckler Way, Fredericksburg, VA — $25 registration — Celebrate classic cars and community vibes while supporting local businesses and a pet rescue.

Rockin' on the Riverfront

7-11:59 p.m. — Riverfront Park Fredericksburg — Free entry — Enjoy a performance by Good Time Alibi and local snacks under the stars.

Open House at 1309 Graham Dr

4-7 p.m. — 1309 Graham Dr, Fredericksburg, VA — $584,991 USD — Explore a luxurious home with custom design elements in the Village of Idlewild.

Puppy Yoga Fundraiser

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Possum-bilities — $28 per person — Enjoy a beginner-friendly yoga class with puppy cuddles and support a good cause.

Soul Line Dancing Night with Regina

7-10 p.m. — Jay's Downtown Sports Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy an energetic evening of community soul line dancing with Regina.