STAFFORD, Va. — On June 14, The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with Stafford County Public Schools celebrated its 10th Anniversary of DARE Day at Pratt Park. Over 2000 Fifth Grade D.A.R.E. students from 17 elementary schools were in attendance.
Stafford County DARE Day originally started at Winding Creek Elementary School and was such a huge success that it was moved to Pratt Park the following year and included all elementary schools in the Stafford County School System. It is now an annual event.
Virginia Attorney General Kenneth Cuccinelli and Jeff Rouse, local U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist Swimmer, were guest speakers. Teacher Grace Hynden, Deputy Christine Hammond and former Stafford Deputy Jessica Childress were honored by the huge crowd for their efforts as the originators of DARE Day.
Forty five different vendors and exhibitors were at the park sharing with the students numerous activities, resources and displays that promoted healthy alternatives to drugs and violence. Helicopters were on display and students were able to watch four local skydivers parachute into Pratt Park.
By all reports everyone in attendance ha a great time.
-Bill Kennedy, Stafford sheriff’s spokesman
