Local April Fools pranks — and no, this is not one of them
Apr 01, 2025
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- It's April 1. For some people, it's just another day -- but, for most Americans, it's a day for tricksters and pranksters to band together.
If you've been fooled today, don't worry -- you're not the only one! As much of a pain it is to admit, some of our staff here at 8News
have been tricked, as well.
Some pranks are harmless and some might cross the line. Here's a few local pranks that are the former.
LED mood lighting for meetings in Ashland
The town of Ashland shared in a Facebook post that it has officially installed brand new LED color-changing mood lights to be used during its public meetings.
The official lighting guide is as follows:
"Calm & Productive Blue" for budget presentations
"Optimistic Green" for positive discussions
"Cautious Yellow" for when someone says they have a "quick question"
"Passionate Debate Red" for heated discussions
"'We’ve Been Here Too Long' Purple" when the meeting runs over 2 and a half hours long
"Public Comment Wildcard Mode" for when public comments take an "unexpected turn"
'Bonus colors' include:
"Rainbow Mode" for surprise grants, new businesses or when "someone successfully parallel parks on the first try"
Emergency Strobe Mode for when two trains come through town at the same time
The Richmond Spiders are redesigning their field
In a recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the University of Richmond's Athletics team announced that they will be upgrading the Robins Stadium to feature a new spiderweb design that "traps opponents."
Richmond Spiders' "new field design" for April Fools. (Photo: Richmond Spiders Athletics)
Prince George County Fire and EMS announces new fire hydrant flushing flavors
If you have a craving for flavored water, you can now get gallons of it from flavored hydrants in Prince George County, according to the Prince George County Fire and EMS department.
In a Facebook post, the department lists off all the flavors, which include:
Spicy Sriracha, for the brave
Strawberry Splash, "hydrant water never tasted so good!"
Caffeine Boost, for those early morning hydrant flushes)
The county's fire department encourages residents to come on out and try a sip ... if you dare.
Rumors Boutique is having a flash sale: 100% off all items!
Gotcha!
In a recent post made on Instagram, the Rumors Boutique announced that, starting next week, they will be "focusing exclusively on neutral tones-beiges, taupes and creams only."
"It's all about simplicity, calmness and creating a more subdued, timeless vibe," the boutique said. "Expect soft, neutral styles, that let the fabric speak for itself, bringing a sense of peace to your wardrobe."
Gotcha again! Man, you're really gullible.
Stony Man Mountain decides to shave just in time for spring
Shenandoah National Park shared in a Facebook post that, "in the spirit of spring cleaning, even Stony Man Mountain has taken it upon himself to shave his notable beard."
Now is a great time for hikers to head up to the mountain and take in that fresh spring scent -- with a hint of aftershave, as well.
Things may get a little rocky for hikers due to the mountain's five o'clock shadow. ...read more read less