The sensory bags for patients with autism contain an array of different items to use when patients are having a stressful sensory issue. Things such as marbles in mesh, squeeze balls, a flipper chain, and a Rubik’s Cube are among the kits’ sensory tools.

The idea to begin carrying these unique resources has been discussed by members in the past few years. Firefighter/Paramedic Lt. Matt Kodicek created Ben’s Blue Bags from the City of Crown Point Fire Rescue in Crown Point, Ind. He was inspired to start the nonprofit in honor of his son, Ben, who is autistic.


On Thursday, May 19 at 8:19. a.m., the School Resource Officer (SRO) at Potomac High School, 3401 Panther Pride Drive in Woodbridge was notified by school personnel that there was a student with a gun inside the school.

The investigation revealed that another student was inside a bathroom when a different student, later identified as the accused, brandished a firearm under a bathroom stall.


A firehouse primary will be held tomorrow, Saturday, May 21, to determine the Republican nominee who will run for Virginia’s 10th District Congressional seat.

Voters in Prince William, Manassas, and Manassas Park will be able to participate.


At 7:53 p.m. Wednesday, May 18, Prince William County fire and rescue crews were dispatched to the 18000 block of Crossroads Court in Triangle, near Triangle Elementary School.

Occupants reported their home was on fire.  Crews arrived to find a working fire and helped the occupant’s safety. No injuries were reported.


Battalion Chief Kim Stewart has recently completed the Executive Fire Officer Program offered by the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy.

The four-year program is the flagship leadership program of the U.S. Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, designed to provide fire officers with a broad perspective on various facets of fire and emergency services administration.


In western Prince William County tomorrow, Vint Hill Road (Route 215) between Greenwich Road (Route 603) and Burwell Road (Route 604) will be closed, weather permitting, from 9 p.m. Friday, May 20 to 7 a.m. Saturday, May 21 to replace a culvert pipe, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Traffic will be detoured via Greenwich Road, Kennedy Road/Fitzwater Drive (Route 652), and Burwell Road back to Vint Hill Road. Drivers are asked to follow posted detour signs.


Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center awarded grants of more than $375,000 to programs, foundations, and groups within the community.

In all, 10 organizations focusing on the health and wellness of area residents were honored.


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