By VERN McHARGUE
WOODBRIGDE, Va. – It’s true that the good Dr. Benjamin Franklin favored the turkey over the Bald Eagle as the national bird for the United States. But the residents of Dawson Landing, where the American Bald Eagle soars, are glad he didn’t get his choice of national bird.
Ideally situated in Woodbridge near the Potomac River and Virginia Railway Express’ Rippon Landing train station, Dawson Landing is a tranquil neighborhood of 266 single family homes – all built on land once owned by Richard Blackburn, architect who designed Mount Vernon and the Falls Church.
Blackburn also built Rippon Lodge around 1747, one of the two oldest remaining homes in all of Prince William County. It was situated along the frequently traveled Potomac Path, and hosted the George & Martha Washington for overnight stays on several occasions.
The historically-significant home within walking distance of Dawson Landing.
With no community center or pool, Dawson Landing residents have to think outside the box when it comes to social gatherings. The HOA recently implemented a new page on neighborgator.com to promote events and keep home owners connected with neighborhood news and activities.
On September 15, the HOA hosted a “Bring Your Best Ride” car show, complete with coffee, doughnuts and, of course, cars.
The HOA also provided landscaping and gardening classes conducted by a certified master gardener who lives in the neighborhood. And don’t forget the occasional block parties to keep neighbors connected.
Nearby shopping centers and restaurants at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center and Potomac Mills help make Dawson Landing a great blend of history, nature and modern day conveniences. And if the new Potomac Nationals baseball stadium will be built near Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center, Dawson Landing residents can add minor league baseball to the list of things that make it a great Woodbridge community.
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(AP) — Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Sunday and predicted six more weeks of wintry weather, his top-hatted handlers announced to a raucus, record-sized crowd at Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania.
Phil was welcomed with chants of “Phil, Phil, Phil,” and pulled from a hatch on his tree stump shortly after sunrise before a member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club read from a scroll in which he boasted: “Only I know — you can’t trust A.I.”
At approximately 2:45 P.M. on Saturday, February 1st, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) responded to a reported structure fire in the 100 block of Aquia Creek Road, near Aquia Creek. Callers reported a neighboring residence on fire, and first arriving units marked the scene less than 10 minutes later and confirmed fire and smoke coming from the rear and roof of a single-family residence.
Due to a lack of hydrants in the area, crews had to utilize rural water operations to shuttle water to the scene. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire and bring it under control in approximately an hour, despite the roof collapsing.
The residence was not occupied at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. The fire is under routine investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office. SCFR units were assisted on scene by Quantico Fire and Emergency Services.
(AP) — Preliminary data from the deadliest U.S. aviation accident in nearly 25 years showed conflicting readings about the altitudes of an airliner and Army helicopter when they collided near Reagan National Airport in Washington, killing everyone aboard both aircraft, investigators said Saturday.
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.
