Editor’s note: We’re in the news business here at the Fredericksburg Free Press, and as such, strive not to miss any stories of import to our community.
But we also know that our readers are busy people whose lives don’t revolve around our daily 5 a.m. newsletter (as much as we would love that to be the case).
Introducing ‘Press Rewind,’ a weekly feature appearing in Sunday’s newsletter that will catch you up on the week that was and prime you for the one ahead. Inside, you’ll find a curated list of our top 5 stories — as determined by impact as opposed to web impressions — as well as other insights related to FFP content.
As we roll this feature out, we’re open to both feedback and suggestions. Email the newsroom at: [email protected] or reach out via our news tip line.
This week’s top stories
-Two young men from Fredericksburg were found guilty of second-degree murder in the 2023 killing of 18-year-old Jasiah Smith, reports Joey LoMonaco.
-The Fredericksburg City Council discussed the possibility of Celebrate Virginia South as a location for its first data center, writes Kathy Knotts.
-As area school officials debate cellphone policies, Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed an executive order directing school divisions in Virginia to establish new procedures, Taft Coghill Jr. reports.
-The Spotsylvania Board of Supervisors approved the $17.5 million purchase of the former Capital One building for new county offices, reports Taft Coghill Jr.
-Stafford County hired former Herndon Town Manager Bill Ashton as its next county administrator.
What they’re saying
“I think we need to put up some money and invite groups to tell us what we could do with the money because it’s so outside our area of expertise. We’ve got to focus on our lane but our lane only.”
—Fredericksburg Economic Development Authority Chair Beth Black on the EDA addressing homelessness initiatives.
For planning purposes
Jeremiah Community, a supportive housing community that’s been in the works for more than six years, went before the Planning Commission last Wednesday. No vote was taken, but Joey LoMonaco will offer an in-depth look on the proposed project this week.
