Author: Press Release

Virginia Railway Express riders gave from their hearts and wallets Wednesday and donated a truck full of toys and nearly $19,000 in the commuter rail agency’s annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Campaign. Riders were asked to leave toys on their seats when exiting morning trains and train conductors collected cash and checks from riders, which were then given to the Toys for Tots Program. “I am overwhelmed by the generosity of VRE riders and the number of toys and donations we received today. Undoubtedly Scrooge does not ride VRE,” said Doug Allen, CEO of VRE.

Marine Corps Staff Sergeants Eichelberger and Herbert presented Mr. Allen a Certificate of Appreciation from the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for VRE’s participation in the annual Toys for Tots event. VRE riders have been one of the largest contributors in our service area to the Toys for Tots Program in recent years. VRE and U.S Marine Corps staff will continue Toys for Tots collections this Saturday at stations served during VRE’s 18^th annual Operation Life Saver Santa Train events.

Decorating homes and businesses is a long-standing tradition around the holiday season. Unfortunately, these same decora- tions may increase your chances of fire. Based on data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), an estimated 250 home fires involving Christmas trees and another 170 home fires involving holiday lights and other decorative lighting occur each year. Together, these fires resulted in 21 deaths and 43 injuries. Follow- ing a few simple fire safety tips can keep electric lights, candles, and the ever popular Christmas tree from creating a tragedy. Learn how to prevent a fire and what to do in case a fire starts in your home. Make sure all exits are accessible and not blocked by decorations or trees. Help ensure that you have a fire safe holiday season.

Maintain your Holiday Lights

The office of Virginia State Delegate Richard L. Anderson (R-51) has announced that the Prince William County legislator will host his third annual “51st House District Future Delegate Program” at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond during the months of January and February 2015.

The program is open to students from grades 7 through 12. They may be enrolled in any public or private school, to include home-schooled students. The 51st House District stretches from Occoquan Town westward through Lake Ridge, the county portions of Manassas, and into Brentsville and Nokesville.

Project Mend-A-House (PMAH) has moved from the Prince William County Complex off Prince William Parkway to the Falcon Building on Technology Drive in Manassas. For the first time in it’s 30 year history, PMAH will not be housed in Prince William County office space. The Technology Drive location consolidates office and storage space in a single location. The office includes conference room space for meetings and training events.

“This is the beginning of a new chapter for Project Mend-A-House,” said PMAH Executive Director, Jennifer Schock-Bolles, “we are excited about the opportunities in our new space will make possible.”

The Prince William Chamber of Commerce hosts the Prince William delegation to the Virginia General Assembly during its annual “Legislative Kick-off” on December 12, 8:00 to 10:00 am at Old Hickory Golf Club, 11921 Chanceford Drive near County Center. The entire business community is invited to meet with elected officials before they head to Richmond for the 2015 legislative session. Businesses do not have to belong to the Chamber to attend.

“As one of the fastest growing region’s in Virginia, it is important for businesses to learn what policy and regulatory changes will be coming out of Richmond so they are able to prepare accordingly. Join us to learn what our region’s General Assembly delegation will be focusing on during the upcoming legislative session and to show them that the business community is engaged in the process.” said Brendon Shaw, Prince William Chamber of Commerce Director of Government Relations.

The Prince William County Minority Business Network held its November Networking Social at the All –American Steakhouse at the Ashland Community Square.

Participants at the monthly social had the opportunity to network, fellowship, win door prizes, enjoy delicious entrees as well as the impeccable service of the All American Steakhouse, and hear from the featured p, Mrs. Simeaka Melton of Rising Above Expectations.