These local businesses and nonprofits will have their names in each weather post — headline, logo, website link, and a customizable message promoting their business each weekday (here’s a sample).
Thank you all for your support of local news in our community.
Prince William Police Department: “Sexual Assault Investigation *ARREST – On December 14, the suspect sought in connection to the sexual assault that was reported to have occurred at the Food Lion located at 12420 Dillingham Square in Woodbridge on December 8, was arrested. While investigating the incident, detectives identified the suspect as Diego Honorato VALENCIA and on December 14, following the investigation, he was arrested. Arrested on December 14: Diego Honorato VALENCIA, 43, of 12351 Midsummer Lane in Woodbridge. Charged with sexual assault. Court Date: Pending | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond.”
“Sexual Assault Investigation [Previously Released] – On December 8 at 8, officers responded to the Food Lion located at 12420 Dillingham Square in Woodbridge to investigate an assault. The investigation revealed the victim, a 15-year-old male juvenile, was inside the restroom when he was approached by an unknown man. Without provocation, the man inappropriately touched the victim and made hand gestures before leaving the restroom. The suspect was last seen leaving in a newer model Toyota Camry. The victim reported the incident to a family member who notified the police. No injuries were reported.”
“At approximately 11:11 a.m. deputies responded to Beth Sholom Temple and Day Care, located at 805 Lyons Boulevard, for a bomb threat. Out of an abundance of caution, the building was evacuated and citizens were escorted to the Howell Library. After an extensive search, no explosive devices were located, and the building was reopened. Detectives are currently investigating the bomb threat,” the Stafford sheriff’s office reports. “Thank you to staff of the Howell Library for your assistance and compassion regarding this matter.”
The temple sits at 805 Lyons Boulevard in the England Run area, across from the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Howell Branch.
At Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge, “Journey back in time on the Lee’s Woods Trail to discover hundreds of years of human history. Follow a range or volunteer on this guided hike to learn about the people, places, and events that make Leesylvania State Park unique. Expect a moderate walk of about 2 miles. The trail is not stroller-friendly. Meet at the trailhead for the Lee’s Woods Trail. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget a reusable water bottle! Children’s Discovery Hike at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm – Potomac Trail. Families join us on an nature adventure through our most popular trail. We will have binoculars, magnifying glasses, bug catching tools and more gear to help children connect to nature and discovery the fun of being outdoors. “The trail is stroller friendly. Please meet at the visitor center and wear comfortable shoes and and don’t forget a reusable water bottle!”
At Widewater State Park in Stafford County, “Begin your new year journey with a Ranger-led hike on Holly Marsh Trail! Starting at the Visitor’s Center, a Ranger will talk to your group about the local wildlife and their winter habitats while guiding you through the forest, past wetlands, and down to the Potomac River; and back again! The hike is 1.8 miles round-trip and the trail is easy-going for children and adults. Be sure to dress warmly, wear the appropriate shoes, and don’t forget to pack water and snacks. “There are three start times available for this hike: 9:00am, 11:00am, and 1:00pm. Registration is FREE, but space is limited to 15 participants per hike. You can sign up for one of the three hike times here.”
University of Mary Washington: “The COAR (Community Outreach and Resources) staff – and the entire UMW community – spent months filling gift-wrapped shoeboxes with winter hats, school supplies and toys for preschool students.”
“The annual effort produced more than 300 packages specifically for youngsters in Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County schools, including students in the Head Start Program, which provides education and resources for eligible children ages 3 to 5.”
Something is happening at the long-dormant Aquia Town Center site, though it’s not what residents have been promised.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors unanimously condemned five acres of undeveloped land on the once-thriving shopping center for a new fire station.
