• Gov. Spanberger vetoes Fairfax County casino bill. The governor blocked legislation that would have allowed a casino in Fairfax County, shutting down a major push from State Senator Surovell. The veto lands ahead of a looming deadline for General Assembly action. Full story More coverage

• Region gears up for America's 250th birthday. Local officials are planning a packed calendar of spring and summer events to mark the nation's semiquincentennial. Expect fireworks, concerts, and extra crowds across the DC area. What's coming

• Spanberger signs energy and contraception bills from Fairfax reps. The governor approved new legislation from Fairfax County lawmakers, including measures on energy policy and access to contraception. These bills join a crowded spring session agenda. Read more

• Fairfax County wants public input to speed up transportation projects. County leaders say engaging residents early and often will help move local road and transit projects faster. More info sessions and updates are on the way. Details

• FCPD retail theft crackdown nets five arrests. Fairfax County Police ramped up efforts against shoplifting in March, leading to multiple arrests and stepped-up patrols at local retailers. Police recap

• Man does pull-up on burst water pipe at GMU Arlington. A water main break drew a crowd, but one man stole the show by performing a pull-up on the exposed pipe. The incident went viral on social media. Watch the moment

• Taste Buds Kitchen coming to Loudoun Station. The culinary-themed business will open its first DC-area location in Ashburn, offering cooking classes and events for all ages. More on the opening

• Staples Grocery Company sets sights on Loudoun County. The new grocer plans to expand in the region, adding to the local retail mix. Business update

• Leesburg's Shutters on King rolls out a weekday lunch menu. Details
• ArtStream's inclusive theater troupe debuts a new show in West Falls Church. Showtime
• Design options unveiled for art at future Richmond Highway BRT stations. See the renderings
• Driver hospitalized after a vehicle explosion near Burke Town Plaza. Incident report

Spring heat is building, and so is the energy. With big vetoes, milestone birthdays, and new businesses popping up, NoVA feels restless but optimistic.

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