Stafford County will create a place to honor its residents who served and died in war.
The Silver Companies donated $100,000 to the effort to construct an Armed Services Memorial at the Stafford Government Center. The donation brought the fundraising campaign more than 70 percent to its $675,000 goal of fully funding the memorial.
“It allows us to go ahead to have those ceremonies, to have those special events, and even for the good government workers in the Gordon Building [Stafford government center] who serve us so well in Stafford County, a great place for them to have lunch,” said Lt. Gen. Ron Christmas, USMC (Ret.), who serves on the memorial commission. “For us, it will be a wonderful place to take your children and grand kids, to sit back and recognize service and sacrifice and recognize those who took the time to serve to make our country is the great country it is today.”
Atlantic Builders also donated $25,000 to the memorial. The company will sponsor a flag pole that will be erected at the memorial site.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors initiated the memorial project appropriated $225,000 to the cause.
“An initiative of the Stafford Board of Supervisors, the memorial grew out of a request from grieving parents who wanted to honor their son, Marine Corps Sergeant Donald James Lamar, II, who was killed in fighting in Afghanistan. The Board decided to create a memorial to honor all who have served, going back to the Revolutionary War.”
“The Board appointed three citizens to serve on the Armed Services Commission: Lt. Gen. Ron Christmas, USMC (Ret.); Delegate Mark Dudenhefer; and Supervisor Gary Snellings, Hartwood District.”
The memorial commission tapped the talents of area high school students to design the memorial.
“The commission held a memorial design contest in 2013 among Stafford’s high schools as a way to draw in the future of Stafford County. Five designs were selected as finalists. Elements of the students’ designs were incorporated into the final design of the memorial. Three of the finalists attended the breakfast this morning: Aaron Brown attended North Stafford High School and is now a student at Virginia Tech; Abriel Maldonado attended Brooke Point High School and is now a student at James Madison University; and Donald Kelley, III, attended Stafford High School and is now an employee of Dominion Virginia Power.”
The winning designers, public officials, members of the memorial commission, and Larry D. Silver of the Silver Companies gathered at a special ceremony at the Stafford Regional Airport on May 26 to announce the Silver Companies $100,000 donation.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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:
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