Woodbridge, Va. –– The irony of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” playing in the background was not lost on walkers and runners as they checked in for the 4th Annual Kyle Wilson Memorial 10K Fitness Walk on Saturday.
Despite the cold and heavy rain, several hundred people still came out to honor the fallen Prince William County firefighter, and to help fund the scholarship fund set up in his honor.
“Being a little cold for a few hours is nothing compared to Kyle’s sacrifice” said runner Jamie Campbell. “When I think about what he gave, I’m just happy to be out here supporting his legacy.”
In addition to an estimated 300 walkers who came to C.D. Hylton High School on Spriggs Road in Woodbridge –– a lower than normal turnout due to the rain –– Skinny Water and Moe’s Southwest Grill were also out to support the walk. Prince William fire and rescue teams were out in high numbers to remember a fallen comrade, and police were on hand to assist with walk safety and show their support as well.
Across from the registration table, several students from George Mason University –– Wilson’s alma mater –– students huddled under a tent and donned plastic trash bags. Their spirits were high, and several were singing and rocking along to the music as they tried to stay warm.
“One of these students will likely be the recipient of the scholarship”, shared one event supervisor “we give it out at the walk every year.”
The goal of the fitness walk was to raise enough money to establish a permanent endowment in Kyle Wilson’s name. The walk has already raised the requisite dollar amount to fund an endowment, which is a permanent scholarship for students pursuing a degree at George Mason, and its organizers are in the process of completing all of the paperwork required by the university to finalize the establishment.
Wilson’s had a passion for fitness, according to the Memorial Walk’s official website, which is why his family decided to honor his memory with a fitness walk. The 10K event is an un-timed walk is and free to participate in, although donations for the scholarship fund are collected.
Wilson is the only Prince William County firefighter to be killed in the line of duty. Wilson died in April 2007 when he was called to a house fire on Marsh Overlook Drive in the Rippon section of Woodbridge.
Recent Stories
Icy Conditions Possible Wednesday Night – A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Prince William County from 9 p.m. Wednesday to Noon Thursday, with freezing rain and sleet expected. VDOT crews are treating roads, but travel may be hazardous. Limit travel, prepare for icy spots, and stay updated on changing conditions.
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors voted Tuesday to cancel the long-debated Route 28 Bypass Project, ending years of planning and millions of dollars in studies and design work. The decision, which passed with a 5-3 vote, came after a contentious debate over the feasibility and cost of the project.
Initially estimated to cost more than $200 million, the road would have connected with Route 28 at a signalized intersection north of Bull Run Stream in Fairfax County. The plan to build the road, Alternative 2B, was the top recommendation from the 2017 Route 28 Corridor Feasibility Study. The project had received $89 million in funding from the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) as part of a broader effort to improve the county’s transportation infrastructure.
County transportation director Rick Canizales confirmed that the estimated cost had grown beyond available funding, requiring an additional $80–$100 million to proceed. “After taking all this into consideration and doing all the design work that we’ve done at this point, we come to the board and let you know that as staff, we believe that alternative 2B is not viable because we don’t have enough money and we don’t have enough support in some of the challenges we’re facing,” Canizales said.
For the first time, Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis Younger sat down for an exclusive interview with Potomac Local News as she begins her second term. In a candid conversation, she addressed the city’s stance on immigration enforcement, the future of development in downtown Manassas, the impact of potential state and federal funding cuts, and her vision for the next four years.
What’s next for Manassas? Will taxes go up? How will the city navigate potential financial challenges? And what’s her take on the now-canceled Route 28 Bypass project?
Get the full story in tomorrow’s edition—only on Potomac Local News. Stay tuned!
The Northern Virginia real estate market is shifting, with demand growing in Prince William, Stafford, Manassas, and Fredericksburg, outpacing Fairfax County. Mark Worrilow, a real estate expert with Fathom Realty, attributes this to affordability, improved commuting options, and enhanced quality of life. Homebuyers find better value in these areas without sacrificing convenience. Inventory is rising, offering more options for buyers, though competition remains strong. Interest rates have stabilized, leading more buyers to enter the market. Worrilow emphasizes the importance of working with an experienced realtor to navigate these trends and make informed real estate decisions in this evolving market.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
