The week’s top stories
-Former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominee for governor, came to Fredericksburg last week to visit downtown businesses. And she earned at least one unsuspecting voter in the process, Joey LoMonaco reports.
-Since 2012, Fredericksburg zoning ordinances have relegated tattoo shops to tiny pockets of the city. But a majority of city councilors last week seemed to be open to relaxing some of the restrictions on the colorful businesses, LoMonaco writes.
-The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce recently honored teachers from around the area with an event at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. The shindig, which recognized teachers for their dedication, innovation and impact, followed similar events the chamber has held for first responders. Rick Horner has the details.
-Earlier this month, the Colonial Forge boys’ track team claimed the first state title in Stafford County history. That didn’t fully satiate the Eagles’ need for speed, however, as Forge’s 400-meter relay team recently raced to a New Balance national crown in Philadelphia.
-Juneteenth may only have become a federal holiday in 2021, but Eunice Haigler was celebrating it way before that. The local activist has organized an annual Juneteenth event since 2015, and this year’s edition was held recently in partnership with the Fredericksburg Area Museum in the city’s Market Square.
Go figures (Numbers that made the news)
-14,000, proposed size in square feet of a grocery store on plans for a mixed-use development on Fall Hill Avenue in Fredericksburg. The size of the store is in line with what’s common for a Trader Joe’s, which has fueled speculation that the ballyhooed grocer might come to the area. has more details in Biz Beat Roundup.
What they’re saying
–“We all know from time to time that we stumble. What’s most important is not that we stumble, it’s how we get back up and how we help others get back up.” –Maj. Gen. Ryan Rideout on the Rappahannock Regional Veterans Treatment Docket, a court diversionary program that provides access to substance abuse and mental health help, as well as mentorship and other services.
Sunday read
-A host of new state laws take effect Tuesday, and they focus on everything from swastikas to seat belts.
From the editor’s desk
As Pride Month winds down, punctuated by Saturday’s march and festival in downtown Fredericksburg, I find myself reflecting on how proud I am to live and work in a place where folks feel free to be their most authentic selves. 🌈
-Joey LoMonaco
