🌱 Walker-Grant MS Principal Named + FPD Offers Cash Reward For Leads

Hello, everybody. It's Thursday in Fredericksburg and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on the most important things happening in our community.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Partly sunny. High: 84 Low: 61.
• Friday: A t-storm around in the p.m.. High: 79 Low: 60.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Fredericksburg today:

1. Steven Ventura, a longtime teacher and current assistant principal, has been announced as the new permanent principal of Walker-Grant Middle School for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year. The School Board made the announcement at a special meeting, expressing their excitement about Ventura's leadership qualities and his understanding of the community. Ventura has been with Fredericksburg City Schools since 2012 and was previously awarded the Teacher of the Year for both the school and the division. He holds a master's degree in educational leadership and is eager to continue making a difference in the lives of students at Walker-Grant Middle School. (Subscription: Fredericksburg.com)
2. Fredericksburg police are offering an undisclosed cash reward to gather leads in the recent homicide of 19-year-old Antoine Fox, who was shot multiple times on Jun. 10. The shooting occurred on Lafayette Boulevard, and multiple cartridge casings were found at the scene, indicating the involvement of more than one gun. Police hope the reward will encourage individuals to come forward with information to help arrest the suspect and provide closure for the victim's family. (Subscription: Patch)
3. Juneteenth celebrations are scheduled to take place in the Fredericksburg region on Jun. 19, commemorating the day in 1865 when Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger announced the emancipation of slaves in Galveston, Texas. The event marks an important milestone in American history and will include various activities and festivities in the area. Visit the link to see the various Juneteenth events scheduled over the next few days! (Subscription: Fredericksburg.com)

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Today and tomorrow in Fredericksburg:

Thursday, June 15

• Origami Thursdays At Fredericksburg Branch Library (5:30 PM)
• Books And Beer At Strangeways Brewing (6:30 PM)

Friday, June 16

• Memory Cafe: Relax And Reminisce At Salem Church Branch Library (10:30 AM)

From my notebook:

• Interested in working for the county? A Transportation Job Fair will be held on Jun. 27 at 4:00 p.m. Register here before Jun. 26 to secure your spot at the in-person event. (Stafford Schools HR & Talent Development via Twitter)
• Ristorante Renato's in Fredericksburg is offering a complimentary to-go spaghetti dinner with fruit and a drink for families with school-age students from Tuesday to Sunday during the summer. The offer is available between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. at their location on 422 William St. (James Monroe High School via Facebook)
• The Rec2U team is inviting community members to participate in their week-long program featuring games, crafts, activities, and more. Engaging activities will be offered for children of all ages, including a new Preschool Rec2U program tailored for kids aged 1.5-4 years old. All activities are free of charge. (Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Fresh Perks Every Week (June 20)
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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Thursday! I'll see you soon.

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.