On Wednesday, February 17, Larry, Stafford County Fire and Rescue’s (SCFR) first peer support canine, was officially placed with his handler within the department.
As a peer support canine, Larry, along with his handler Technician Jeffrey Stocker, will be a resource for department personnel experiencing work related stress or trauma.
Larry is a two-year-old yellow lab who was trained by volunteers with First Responder K-9 (FRK9). FRK9 is a local company that trains purpose bred dogs to first responders with PTSD, TBIs and other disabilities as well as first responder agencies as service dogs or peer support dogs. Larry will live full time with Technician Stocker, his primary handler.
Firefighter Ian Sexton will serve as Larry’s secondary handler.
“I am really looking forward to serving the department in this capacity, to be able to support my brothers and sisters in tough times with the help of Larry,” explained Technician Stocker, Larry’s handler. He added, “I am honored to be his handler”.
“We are excited to partner with FRK9 on this important initiative. Firefighter mental health is a key component of overall health, and we know that Larry will be a tremendous benefit to our department,” said Stafford County Fire Chief Joseph Cardello. “We look forward to watching this program grow,” he added
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A DUI rollover crash in Stafford left a 40-year-old man trapped in his vehicle, requiring firefighters to cut him free after a devastating wreck. Meanwhile, a high-speed police pursuit ended in a crash and foot chase at Stafford Marketplace, with a suspect wanted in multiple counties now in custody. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery at a Manassas car dealership saw a suspect assault an employee before stealing a 2022 BMW M3.
Stay up to date with today’s top local stories: Virginia lawmakers pass a new budget with tax rebates and state employee bonuses, Governor Youngkin commutes the sentence of a former Fairfax officer in a controversial case, and a Manassas special education teacher is honored with a prestigious award.
Residents and business owners in Manassas Park who have overdue taxes and other unpaid city bills may soon see their names displayed publicly.
McClung-Logan Equipment Company is hosting its 40th Annual Oyster Roast, a signature customer appreciation event celebrating tradition, community, and generosity.
This year’s milestone celebration will take place on Thursday, March 6th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fairgrounds.
The first Oyster Roast began as a fundraiser in 1985, led by White Oak Equipment founder Frank McCarty, to raise donations for an employee battling cancer. This turned into a time-honored tradition for individuals facing hardship.
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.
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
