Julie Kaminky Bower died July 12, 2021, in Woodbridge, Virginia.
She was born to Katherine (Kolanczik) and Oscar Kaminky on December 14, 1941, in Freeport, Illinois. She moved with her family to Goshen in 1953 and remained there almost continuously until 2001. She was a 1959 graduate of Goshen High School. In 1965 she married Anton M. “Tony” Bower. He preceded her in death in 1996. She worked for the Social Security Administration from 1969 until her retirement in 1997. In 2001 she moved to Virginia to be closer to her son and his family. She is survived by her son, Matthew (Mariana) and five grandchildren, Emily, Mary Katherine, Edward, Julie, and Claire, of Woodbridge, Virginia; and by her siblings, Elizabeth (Edward) Marolla of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin; John (Marge) Kaminky, of St. Charles, Illinois; and Mary Sue (Walter) Barniskis of Minnetonka, Minnesota.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. on July 24, 2021, at Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home, 13318 Occoquan Road, Woodbridge, Virginia 22191, and to her interment (along with her husband, Tony, a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War), at 2:00 p.m. on July 27, 2021, at Quantico National Cemetery in Triangle, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to DC Area Weimaraner Rescue, https://www.shopdcweim.com/
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
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.
