Occoquan’s annual haunted maze will spook and thrill visitors again on Saturday, October 26, from 5 to 10 p.m., with net profits benefiting Patriots for Disabled Divers (PFDD).

This unique event, located in the parking lot behind D’Rocco’s on Mill Street, invites volunteers and attendees alike to support a great cause while enjoying a night of Halloween fun. PFDD is a nonprofit that uses scuba therapy to help wounded warriors, and this year’s maze holds special significance, honoring the late Bill Pressly, the maze’s original designer.

In an interview with Merial Currer, founder of PFDD, we learned more about the history of the maze, Bill’s legacy, and what’s in store for this year’s event.

Q: How did Patriots for Disabled Divers become the beneficiary of the maze, and how long has this partnership been in place?

A: We are the originators of the idea, and while we still had our store, we partnered with the town on it. The maze was created by my brother, Bill Pressly, who worked in theater tech for over 40 years. He used to build haunted mazes for his children’s high school as fundraisers for the theater department, but he shifted his focus to PFDD after they graduated. Our first maze was in 2019. We didn’t have one in 2020, so this will be our fifth year.

Q: Could you share more about Bill’s involvement over the years? Are there any unique plans to honor his memory during this year’s event?

A: Bill was deeply involved in many aspects of PFDD and Patriot Scuba. He loved Halloween, so we really want this to be an extra special event. Before he passed away, Bill provided us with this year’s maze design. Wolfpack Homes and Investments, along with Jason Remodeling, INC, have graciously stepped up to build the maze using Bill’s plans. They’re donating their time and labor to bring his intricate design to life, putting together over 100 sheets of 4’x8′ OSB.

Q: What new or unique elements can visitors expect in this year’s maze?

A: I don’t want to give too much away, but we’ll have a DJ, a bar, a dance area, and fire pits. You don’t have to pay to go through the maze to enjoy the party!

Q: Are there specific volunteer roles in high demand?

A: We’re always in need of scarers—people who dress up and haunt the maze. If we have more volunteers than needed, we’ll rotate them to give visitors a different experience each time they go through. With unlimited maze trips included in the ticket purchase, it keeps the experience fresh.

Q: How many volunteers are needed for the event, and what’s your goal this year?

A: It takes about 30 volunteers to run the event smoothly, and we’re aiming for that number again this year.

Q: How have funds raised in past years supported PFDD’s mission?

A: Last year, the maze raised almost $10,000, and I’m hoping to double that this year. The funds go directly to scuba diving training for disabled veterans. Jeff and I donate the materials for the maze, so all ticket sales go toward funding the divers.

Q: What are the key details for those interested in attending?

A: The maze runs from 5 to 10 p.m. in the parking lot behind D’Rocco’s on Mill Street. Adult admission is $10, and children 12 and under get in for $5. We rate it PG-13. A free shuttle will run from 4:30 to 11 p.m., picking up attendees from the lot at 123 and Old Bridge and dropping them off at the maze.

For those interested in volunteering, visit jotform.com/242768619378171.

Workhouse Haunt is back for its 11th season, delivering spine-chilling thrills with a twisted take on classic fairy tales. Running every weekend from October 4 to November 2, this haunted trail through the historic Workhouse prison will transport guests into reimagined, terrifying versions of Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more. With pre- and post-trail festivities, including food trucks, Halloween art, and DJ music, it’s a must-see for thrill-seekers.

Special sensory-friendly sessions are available for families on October 20. Tickets start at $25.

Press release:

Brace yourself for the return of Northern Virginia’s most spine-tingling Halloween tradition—Workhouse Haunt. Now in its 11th season, this eagerly anticipated event promises a heart-pounding journey through the eerie remnants of the historic Workhouse prison. Kicking off on October 4, Workhouse Haunt: Twisted Tales of Terror will immerse visitors in a world where classic fairy tales take a dark and twisted turn.

This year’s theme brings to life over a dozen terrifying scenes, reimagining beloved stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Pinocchio with a sinister twist. As participants navigate the haunted trail, they will encounter gruesome characters and nightmarish surprises around every corner—perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween enthusiasts alike.

The Haunt runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2, with a special event on Halloween night, Thursday, Oct. 31. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $25. To secure your spot visit www.workhousearts.org.

Pre and Post-Trail Festivities
To keep everything moving along, guests will travel in small groups via a timed entry. While awaiting their timed entry or after surviving the trail, the Rizer Pavilion offers a festive Halloween atmosphere. Enjoy DJ-spun tunes (Fridays, Saturdays, and Halloween Night), a variety of themed drinks at the bar, delectable treats from local food trucks, and unique Halloween-inspired art and souvenirs at the Haunt Pop-up Shop.

“We’re proud that the Workhouse Haunt has become a cornerstone of Halloween in Northern Virginia,” said Keith Gordon, President and CEO. “As an extension of the Workhouse Performing Arts program, the Haunt also provides an opportunity for local talent to showcase their skills, with nearly 100 participants crafting an experience that’s as terrifying as it is theatrical.”

Haunt: Twisted Tales of Terror Schedule:

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October

Gates open at 6:30 pm, first group dispatched to trail at 7 pm
On Fridays and Saturdays, final groups will be dispatched by 10:30 pm
On Sundays, final groups will be dispatched by 9:30 pm

Thursday, October 31, Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2
Gates open at 6 pm, first group dispatched to trail at 6:30 pm
Final groups will be dispatched by 9:30 pm

The Haunt is generally not recommended for children under 13 years old; however, special designated sensory friendly trail times are available on Sunday, October 20 for families that would like to experience the trail without strobe lighting, overall lower volume levels of sounds, and scares that are not as intense. See the website for specific times.

Prince William County Fire and Rescue Services is hosting an All-County Public Safety Expo on Saturday at Pfitzner Stadium (7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge) from noon to 5 p.m.

There will be several different special guests, performances, challenges and local agencies present at the expo. Read more below for the event schedule.

Schedule

• Noon to 12:10 p.m.: Opening ceremony (Ball Field 2)
• 12:10 to 12:35 p.m.: Prince William County Pipes & Drums
• 1 to 1:30 p.m.: Woodbridge High School Marching Band
• 1:30 to 2 p.m.: Make the Right Call Presentation
• 2 to 2:30 p.m.: Manassas Park High School Drum Line
• 2:30 to 3 p.m.: Egg Drop Challenge (Demo Alley)
• 3 to 3:30 p.m.: Vehicle Extrication
• 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.: School of Rock Haymarket House Band (Courtyard)

Exhibitors

FIRE & RESCUE

• PWC Fire & Rescue System
  • Fire Marshal’s Office
  • HAZMAT
  • Life & Fire Safety Programs
  • Office of Emergency Management
  • Department of Fire & Rescue CPAT/Human Resources Office
• City of Manassas Fire & Rescue Department
• Manassas Park Fire & Rescue Department

LAW ENFORCEMENT

• Prince William County Police Department
• Prince William County Sheriff’s Office
• Manassas Park Police Department
• Town of Haymarket Police Department
• Town of Occoquan Police Department
• Quantico Police Department
• Dumfries Police Department
• Virginia State Police

LOCAL & REGIONAL AGENCIES

• AirCare 1 (PHI Air Medical Manassas)
• Department of Forestry
• Virginia Forestry
• Civil Air Patrol
• Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital
• Prince William District Scouts
• Prince William County Community Foundation
• NOVA Food Rescue
• PWC Animal Services
• Saving Prince William’s Littles
• Area Agency on Aging
• PWC Public Safety Communications 911
• Office of Executive Management
• Human Rights Commission
• Community Services Wellness & Prevention
• Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court Seals on Wheels
• PWC Building Development Building Code Enforcement
• Prince William Public Libraries’ Mobile Library Unit
• Office of Housing and Community Development
• Neabsco District Supervisor Victor Angry
• Volunteer Prince William
• Public Works/Solid Waste Management
• Office of Procurement Services
• PWC Department of Facilities & Fleet Management

ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

• PWCFRS Honor Guard
• Prince William County Pipes & Drums
• Antique Fire & Rescue Apparatus
• MedStar Health – Bleeding Control VR Experience
• PSCC 911 – Make the Right Call Presentation
• Firefighter/EMS Gear Dress Up Station
• Face Painting
• Egg Drop Challenge
  • Rules
  • Registration Form (closes Wed., Oct.9th @ 5 p.m.)

SPECIAL GUESTS

• Sparky the Fire Dog
• McGruff the Crime Dog
• Smokey the Bear

MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

• Woodbridge High School Marching Band
• Manassas Park High School Drum Line
• School of Rock Haymarket House Band

FOOD TRUCKS

• Two Smooth Dudes
• Virginia Grill
• Sweet Frog
• Bella’s Cafe

AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!

 

On Sept. 25, Occoquan Elementary School construction officially broke ground.

Occoquan Elementary is set to become the first net-zero school in Prince William County Schools and will be located in Woodbridge. The new 120,000-square-foot, three-level building will replace the oldest school in PWCS.

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The 2025 Fall Arts and Crafts Show will be held in historic Occoquan on September 28 and 29 from 10 am to 5 pm, featuring over 300 vendors, live music, and a Beer Garden. Attendees can enjoy artist demonstrations, participate in painting lessons, explore Imagination Alley for kids’ activities, and use shuttle services from nearby parking lots for $8 round trip.

Press Release:

It’s a maker, creator, and shopper paradise during the 2025 Fall Arts & Crafts Show! Over 300 vendors will line the streets of historic Occoquan offering unique, handmade, and artisan goods. Meet experienced artisans, talk to them about their work, and watch demonstrations of some of their craft techniques. Indulge in delicious festival fare and enjoy live music in the?Beer Garden?in beautiful River Mill Park. Master your creative side! Sign up for a painting lesson and create a masterpiece. Kids will want to make their own art too in Imagination Alley.

The Fall Arts & Crafts Show will be open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm both Saturday and Sunday, September 28 & 29 and will take place rain or shine. There is no admission fee at the gate. Shuttle service from nearby satellite parking lots is $8 round trip or 2 for $15. More information can be found at occoquanfestivals.com.

“The Fall Arts & Crafts Show is a perennial favorite in the region. It’s two days packed with a huge range of?hundreds of makers and creators from all over the region,” says Julie Little, Events Director. “This show has an amazing legacy, and this fall marks the 54th year of the Fall Arts & Crafts Show in the streets of the historic district!”

ARTS & CRAFTS and LIVE DEMOS

Discover a myriad of artisans, crafters, and makers along the streets in Occoquan’s beautiful historic district. Here, craftmanship is showcased in a wide variety of mediums and price points. Find treasures from favorite crafters and discover new talents. Visitors may meet experienced artisans, talk to them about their work, and even view demonstrations of some of their craft techniques.?Look for signs on vendor tents that say, “Ask Me About My Work!”

BEER GARDEN and LIVE MUSIC

The Fall Arts & Crafts Show will include a Beer Garden in River Mill Park, both days from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Local eatery, Bar J, will offer Frito Bandito with a side of chili to go with that beer! With plenty of seating, the park situated along the river is the perfect spot to take a break and listen to live music. 9th Gear is new to Occoquan and is the featured band on Saturday. The D.C. Transit Band also makes its Occoquan debut on Sunday. Pro-tip: by parking at the Route 123 Commuter Lot on Old Bridge Road, visitors can board the “Beer Garden Express” Green shuttle straight to the garden at River Mill Park. The main Food Court is situated at this end of town as well.

LEARN TO PAINT

Explore your creative side at our Learn to Paint sessions at Town Hall! Painting fosters relaxation, sparks creativity, and produces a one-of-a-kind piece of art by YOU! Local artist, Rachael Bright will guide you to create your own make-and-take acrylic masterpiece. So, bring a friend and unleash your inner artist! Tickets include all the supplies needed to get creative. Each session is approximately one hour. Reserve your space at occoquanfestivals.com/learntopaint.

IMAGINATION ALLEY

Located in the center of town at 305 Mill Street, Imagination Alley will be packed with make-and-take projects, performances, and tons of family fun. Here’s a sneak peek into just some of the excitement in store:

• Make your own art project from recycled craft supplies at the Art Bar
• Create a one-of-a-kind?masterpiece at the Spin Art machine
• Make your very own creation at the bracelet bar (fee)
• Get your face painted with Fairy Jennabelle (fee)
• Be inspired by our Junior Entrepreneurs
• And much more!

In addition to all the fun making and playing with art, Imagination Alley will feature some wonderful free performances from our community partners. The Alley will be open both days, 10 am to 5 pm. Be sure to check the website at occoquanfestivals.com/imagination or the program for the most up-to-date schedule of activities and performances.

SHUTTLE INFORMATION

At a cost of $8 per rider round trip, or 2 riders for $15, visitors may park at designated lots and be transported by shuttle into Town. Kids 12 and under ride free. This fall, shuttle riders may prepay their shuttle fees online at occoquanfestivals.com/shuttle or use cash or credit via QR code at the door. Visitors that prepay may simply show the shuttle stop attendant their receipt once they disembark in Occoquan. The shuttle runs for patrons from 9 am to 6 pm. Satellite parking can be found at three locations:

Purple Lot
Lake Ridge Commuter Lot
Corner of Old Bridge and Minnieville Roads, Woodbridge, VA
Drop off/Pick Up located at?the corner of Commerce and Washington Streets

Green Lot (Beer Garden Express!)
Rt 123 Commuter Lot
Corner of Route 123 and Old Bridge Road, Woodbridge, VA
Drop off/Pick Up at the?Footbridge?by River Mill Park

Yellow Lot*
Workhouse Arts Center
9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA
Drop off/Pick Up under the Route 123 Bridge

*The Yellow Lot offers wheelchair-accessible shuttle service from 10 am to 5 pm both days. For more accessibility options for the craft show, see occoquanfestivals.com.

Greetings, Prince William: Mark Your Calendars for Volunteer Prince William’s Fall Reverse Raffle & Dinner in support of Untrim-A-Tree, October 19, 6:30pm at Prince William County Fairgrounds 10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas 20112. Doors open at 6pm, the raffle begins at 7pm. Your $100 donation includes dinner for 2, two drink tickets per ticket and the opportunity to win prizes leading up to the Grand Prize of $10,000! It should be a fun evening of good food, networking, and a chance to win the Grand Prize, all to support a cause which will guarantee vulnerable children in our community will have a Merry Christmas on December 25! Please email [email protected] for more information.

• Support our veterans by giving the gift of a lift! Our VETS program has an ongoing need for volunteers age 21+ to provide transportation to local veterans and their spouse on weekdays to medical appointments, shopping, etc. If you’re a veteran looking to connect with fellow vets or looking to fill up your day, this is a meaningful experience. Schedules are flexible, and you’ll feel great as you provide a ride, a friendly face and help this population meet their needs! Please visit https://bit.ly/4eWwrdB for details, email [email protected] for more information. This opportunity is made possible by a grant from Potomac Health Foundation.
• You can help senior citizens facing food insecurity! ACTS needs dedicated volunteers to deliver boxes of food to homebound seniors and people with disabilities in eastern Prince William County Monday-Thursday, 11am-1pm. Volunteers need a valid driver’s license and can use any size vehicle, though a van may be provided if necessary. Boxes can weigh up to 40 pounds. Volunteers typically call or text recipients to notify them that their delivery is on the way. You’ll feel great as you ensure that those who are unable to leave their homes receive the food they need! Note: Client Intake Volunteers are also needed! Duties include assisting clients with booking appointments, registering new clients, and ensuring every client receives the support they need. Familiarity with client intake software and fluency in Spanish helpful, but not necessary! For more information, please email [email protected].
• Catholic Charities in Manassas is looking for Fall Semester Interns to support their Migration and Refugee Services which helps newly arrived families find community and support to thrive in the US. Numerous projects need intern support such as outreach, client assistance, database work, newsletter and much more! You’ll have a busy and rewarding semester as you help immigrants successfully navigate the various systems to get settled in the US! Please email [email protected] for more information.
• Do you enjoy supporting live concerts? Clearbrook Center of the Arts located in Lake Ridge needs volunteer Event Stagehands age 18+ to contribute to the smooth running of their events. Jobs include guiding show bands to their designated staging areas, assisting bands with load-in/breakdown and helping with stage setup/breakdown. You get to enjoy some great live music and get Free admission to a future Clearbrook concert of your choice! To view the concert schedule, please visit
  www.clearbrookcenterofthearts.org, visit their SignUp Genius page at
  https://signup.com/go/gjAhPZb to volunteer. Please email clearbrookce…@gmail.com for more information.
• Lace up your running shoes – Girls on The Run Northern Virginia is preparing for their Fall season September 23-November 24, and they need Volunteer Coaches age 16+ to coach teams in the greater Prince William community! No experience needed; just a desire to support and encourage the next generation. Must commit to 2-3 hours a week for the season with a few additional hours required for Coach Training and the GOTR NOVA season-ending 5K celebration. Coaches receive all the tools and support they need and find that they get as much out of coaching as they give. You’ll feel awesome as you help young girls gain confidence in themselves and their abilities! Please visit www.gotrnova.org/coach to learn more, email [email protected] for more information.
• It’s that time again – Historic Manassas, Inc. needs volunteers to support the upcoming Fall Jubilee October 5, 6am-6pm in Old Town Manassas! Volunteers of any age are welcome, volunteers under age 16 must volunteer with an adult over 18. Duties include setup, keeping trash picked up, helping to monitor Kids Areas and the Stage Area. You’ll have a fun time enjoying all the sights, food, and music of this event while you help to promote the advantages of visiting Old Town! Please visit https://bit.ly/3Sp91TJ to sign up, email li…@historicmanassasinc.org to learn more.
• Are you a fan of gardening? Prince William Conservation Alliance is looking for volunteers to help prepare the wildlife garden at Merrimac Farm, 15014 Deepwood Lane, Nokesville for the winter season on September 21, 9am-12pm. Jobs include pulling trees, removing plants, clearing paths, hanging deer deterrents, taking inventory, and cleaning the very small pond. Please feel free to bring your own tools, especially to cut and remove small trees; tools and gloves will be available for use. This family-friendly event is a wonderful opportunity to support native wildlife, get outside, and welcome the changing of the seasons! Please visit https://bit.ly/3XmbWyJ for more information, email alli…@pwconserve.org to learn more.
• “Farm livin’ is the life for me…” Prince William Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting Farm Field Days October 9 and 10, 8am-1pm at the Prince William County Fairgrounds, 10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas 20112. Volunteers are needed to support this event which educates 4th graders about agriculture and farm life. Duties include helping set up, check in volunteers, monitor various agricultural stations, set up/monitor the concession stand and guide student groups from one station to the next. No farm experience is needed! Lunch will be provided to volunteers once the event ends. This should be lots of fun as you help educate students about farm living! Please visit https://bit.ly/3smBobx to register. Questions? Please email [email protected] or call 571.379.7514 to learn more.
• You can help clean up the Occoquan River! On September 21, 9am-2pm Prince William Trails and Streams Coalition (PWTSC) is conducting its 15th Annual Clean-Up of the Upper Occoquan River from nine different sites along 25+ miles of the Occoquan River. Experienced kayakers, canoeists, Jon boaters, and pontoon boaters are also requested for the on-the-water portion of this conservation effort. Homeowners’ associations, civic associations, and businesses are encouraged to join in this effort. T-shirts and refreshments provided, you’ll feel great knowing you’re helping to beautify an area which provides water for most of eastern Prince William and Fairfax counties! Please visit https://bit.ly/3MfMRjR to sign up, email [email protected] to learn more. Rain Date September 28.
• Jazz Lovers! Please join the Virginia Women and Family Support Center for an enchanting evening under the stars at Jazz on the Lawn September 21, 4pm-9pm at 14019A Glenkirk Road in Gainesville! Immerse yourself in the soothing melodies of live jazz presented by The Continental Jazz Congress. Relax and unwind as you sip on unlimited wines and indulge in a delicious dinner provided by BJ’s Brewhouse and complemented with a dessert bar. Whether you’re a lover of jazz, looking for a date night or want to unwind in the company of friends and neighbors, this event promises to be a delightful fusion of music, community, and culinary delights! You’ll feel great as you treat yourself to an unforgettable night out and know that 100% of proceeds will go towards housing women and families in need. Please visit www.vawfsc.org/jazzonthelawn for more information and ticket purchase, email [email protected] to learn more.

If you are looking for other opportunities, please don’t forget to call our wonderful team at Volunteer Prince William at 703.369.5292. You can also visit our website at www.volunteerprincewilliam.org. Thanks so much for all you do in our community.

The Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department has launched a Little Free Library in front of Station 14 to honor Assistant Chief Michael Clark’s 35 years of service and commitment. This initiative aims to enhance literacy and community engagement by allowing members to borrow and share books at no cost.

Press Release:

This week, the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWL VFD) proudly unveils its newest community initiative: a Little Free Library dedicated to Assistant Chief Michael Clark. Located in front of Station 14, the library is a tribute to Chief Clark’s 35 years of service, commitment to education, and lifelong dedication to the OWL VFD.

Rescue Chief Sandra Williams, who also serves as a school teacher, envisioned the Little Free Library as a way to promote literacy and knowledge-sharing within the community. “Many children lack regular access to books outside of school, making initiatives like our Little Free Library crucial,” said Williams. “The library not only connects us to the community but also empowers young minds with the joy of reading, encouraging imagination, creativity, and critical thinking.”

The Little Free Library is a simple yet powerful concept—a “take a book, share a book” exchange where community members can leave or borrow books at no cost. The library at OWL VFD will offer books for all ages, making it a welcoming space for families, individuals, and firefighters to enjoy. This initiative fosters a love for reading while promoting community engagement and connection.

Chief Michael Clark, a life member of OWL VFD and the library’s namesake, has been an inspiration to the department and community throughout his decades of service. Despite facing ALS, Clark continues to share his knowledge and passion for fire service through his role on the Board of Directors and by leading the department’s history group. His efforts have preserved the legacy of OWL VFD, providing valuable lessons and inspiration to its members.

Reflecting on his career, Clark said, “Back when I started in 1976, it was about giving back to my community. As time went on, OWL gave me the training and knowledge to support my advancement through the ranks of the department. Over the last 40+ years, I’ve seen the challenges of the department to keep providing services to the community. Unfortunately, due to my illness, I wasn’t able to continue my goals for my position and the department. I had a great career in the fire service, but I wish that I could do more.”

The Little Free Library at Station 14 is more than just a collection of books—it represents OWL VFD’s ongoing commitment to education, community service, and honoring the contributions of its members. The department invites the public to visit, borrow a book, and join in celebrating Chief Clark’s lasting legacy.

For more information on OWL VFD and its community outreach programs, visit www.owlvfd.org

About OWL VFD:

The Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWL VFD) has been serving the local community since 1938, providing fire and emergency services to protect lives, property, and the environment. OWL VFD is one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in Virginia, responding to more than 20,000 calls annually.

Several Virginia locales, including Occoquan, Dumfries, Haymarket, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Quantico, are now classified as sanctuary jurisdictions, according to a recent update from the Center for Immigration Studies. This classification follows the center’s review of data from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The information was disclosed in the latest episode of the Parsing Immigration Policy podcast, which accompanies the release of the updated sanctuary jurisdiction map.

Sanctuary jurisdictions typically have regulations that limit cooperation with ICE, impacting the enforcement of immigration laws. These measures may include refusing ICE detainers, restricting agency interactions with ICE, or hindering the sharing of information about incarcerated aliens.

ICE uses detainers as a key mechanism to detain aliens involved in criminal activities, ensuring their custody transfer for deportation. These detainers provide details about the individual’s criminal and immigration history, highlighting their public safety or security risk.

Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies at the Center, expressed concern over the growth of sanctuary policies. “It is alarming to see the continued proliferation of sanctuary policies, especially in places like Virginia, where ICE has had to use its scarce resources to re-arrest violent gang members and rapists in our communities who were set free by local jails, when they should have been transferred directly to ICE custody for a plane ride home,” Vaughan stated.

The proliferation of sanctuary policies raises concerns, particularly due to the necessity for ICE to reallocate resources to apprehend dangerous criminals who are released by local authorities rather than being transferred to ICE. Vaughan emphasizes the need for legislative action to foster cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE, and to address non-compliance.

The newly updated map introduces 170 new sanctuary regions across the U.S., including counties and cities. Some of these jurisdictions are in states with laws against sanctuary policies. The report highlights significant increases in sanctuary designations in states like Virginia, North Dakota, Nebraska, New York, and Minnesota.

This update, derived from ICE’s internal tracking and a Freedom of Information Act request, points to over 10,000 deportable aliens being released back into communities over the years due to sanctuary policies, with many reoffending.

The news comes as Virginia State Senator Tara Durant (R) revealed reports of two additional intrusions at Quantico Marine Corps Base following the arrests of two men from Jordan who were in the U.S. illegally. Potomac Local News broke the story and told you the men were arrested after allegedly posing as Amazon delivery drivers and ramming the front gate of the military installation on May 3, 2023.

Durant said the additional incursions occurred on May 3, the same day two Jordanian nationals in the U.S. illegally posed as Amazon delivery men.

Tropical Storm Debby is expected to bring two to three inches of rain, possible tornadoes, and wind gusts of 40-50 mph to our area. Significant inland flooding from the Occoquan River and local creeks such as Ballywhack Creek is likely. Occoquan Town staff prepare for the storm by stocking emergency materials and cleaning drainage grates. At the same time, residents are advised to exercise caution, report power outages, and stay alert for potential flash flooding and downed power lines.

From Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta:

As many of you are probably aware, Tropical Storm Debby is expected to impact our area most heavily this evening through Friday. Projected impacts include 2-3 inches of rain, possible tornados, and wind gusts of 40-50 mph. Those of you who have lived in Occoquan for 10-15 years likely recall it is often less the winds that impact the town, but inland flooding from the prodigious amounts of rain that such storms may bring.

Of course, one source of such flooding is the Occoquan River itself. Yet thanks to the capabilities of Fairfax Water and others, the amount of potential flooding from both water coming over the dam (which does not and has never had any flood control gates) and water coming upriver from a tidal bore is fairly predictable, and riverfront property owners are generally well prepared, knowing that the occasional downside of a beautiful waterfront location is that the river will sometimes overflow its banks.

Much less predictable and a more consistent source of damage in town is flash flooding from the creeks that enter town, particularly Ballywhack Creek at Tanyard Hill Road. This is an inevitable feature of living in a riverfront valley, but over the last ten years a great deal of progress has been made in addressing flooding associated with the creek. Prince William County has retrofitted the storm water retention pond on LRPRA property to slow the water that flows into the creek from outside of town.

Typically, Prince William County also checks the catcher devices upstream from town before a storm to ensure they are clear of debris and ready to stop new debris that might flow downstream and block the culvert under Tanyard Hill Road. VDOT has also installed and deepened drainage trenches along the roadway to catch and redirect more water.

Video: Occoquan floods during Tropical Storm Alex in 2011

Heavy rainfall across portions of the Carolinas is expected to persist through today along with areas of considerable flooding. Heavy rainfall will also result in considerable to locally catastrophic flooding impacts across portions of the Mid-Atlantic States and Northeast… pic.twitter.com/tmQqE6qVMH

— National Weather Service (@NWS) August 8, 2024