Press release:
"Phase one construction of the Outdoor Center for Aviation Education began when local sponsors Virginia Paving and Vulcan Aggregate laid a miniature runway and taxiways for the family-friendly play-learn-picnic area.
Located at the Stafford Regional Airport, the Center will provide a platform for youth aviation programs, learning activities, exercise, and presentation of aviation science and history.
“The Outdoor Center for Aviation Education is going to be a one-of-a-kind learn and play area that will welcome the entire community,” said Stephanie Johnson, president of non-profit Rappahannock Aviation Outreach. “Virginia Paving and Vulcan Aggregate have donated valuable time and materials to get construction of the Center underway. We could not be more appreciative of the investment they have made in our community.”
The Outdoor Center for Aviation Education will feature a picnic pavilion, aviation-themed play structures, a mock control tower with viewing scopes, interactive education stations, miniature runway and taxiways for pedal vehicles, and a live broadcast of airport radio transmissions.
“In keeping with our company’s tradition of community service, Virginia Paving is proud to help create something that will benefit families throughout the region,” said Michael Hancock, project engineer with Virginia Paving. “It’s fun and rewarding to be part of such a unique project that will be a source of inspiration for young people in our community.”
The Center will be completed in four construction phases as funds are raised. The picnic pavilion is planned for completion this summer. The entire area is planned for completion by 2019.
Rappahannock Aviation Outreach is currently selling inscribed bricks to raise funds for the picnic pavilion. To help build and memorialize support for the Center, bricks can be purchased online at bricksrus.com or by contacting Stephanie Johnson at [email protected].
About Rappahannock Aviation Outreach:
Rappahannock Aviation Outreach formed in July 2016 with the goal of introducing more people to aviation. As a vital part of the economy, the aviation and aerospace industry provides hundreds of thousands of jobs in our community and throughout the country. The group is building the Center for Aviation Education, a family-friendly play-learn-picnic area at the Stafford Airport as a way to communicate the dream and possibility of flight."
This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or Create a FREE Account. Thank you.
Recent Stories
Since August 2024, Potomac Local News has seen significant growth in our email newsletter readership, with our audience expanding from 14,747 subscribers in August to 18,252 subscribers in February 2025.
(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.
