🌱 PWCPD Seeks Help With Cold Case + Upcoming Tax Public Hearings

Hello, friends! I'm back with your fresh copy of the Dale City Patch newsletter. Here's all the local news you need to know right now.

But first, your local weather:

• Tuesday: Plenty of sunshine. High: 62 Low: 39.
• Wednesday: Times of clouds and sun. High: 61 Low: 47.
• Thursday: A shower in the a.m.; cloudy. High: 74 Low: 57.
• Friday: Cloudy and mild with a shower. High: 63 Low: 48.

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Here are the top three stories in Dale City:

1. The Prince William County Police Department is asking for the public's help to solve a 15-year-old case. The cold case involves Pablo Cruz Gamez, who was found in a wooded area near the Woodbridge area. He died from blunt force trauma. Anyone with information is asked to call (703) 792-7000. (WRIC)
2. There will be two public hearings for the proposed budget and tax rates. Both upcoming hearings are hosted by the Board of County Supervisors in the Board Chambers of the McCoart Building on Mar. 21 and Apr. 11 at 7:30 p.m. (Prince William County Government, Virginia via Facebook)
3. Prince William County just approved a $1.5 million operating budget. The budget for the fiscal year 2024 will take effect on Jul. 1. This seven percent budget increase over last year stems from an anticipated 1,800 more students than the previous year, five percent cost-of-living raises for teachers and substitutes, and new start-up costs. (Potomac Local)

Coming up in Dale City:

Wednesday, March 22

• Baby Story Time - Dale City Neighborhood Library (10:30 AM)
• In The Garden With Dr. Carver - Dale City Neighborhood Library (11:30 AM)
• Preschool Story Time - Dale City Neighborhood Library (11:30 AM)

From my notebook:

• Dr. Michael Neall addressed how Prince William County Public Schools is handling post-pandemic absences. According to data, 91,000 students missed 10 percent or more of the first 90 days of the school year. As the school system’s director of research, accountability, and strategic planning, Dr. Neall said there was an “overall decrease” in second-quarter attendance. (WTOP)
• It is National Poison Prevention Week. This annual observance occurs during the third full week of March to raise awareness about unintentional poisonings. The Prince William County government offered a list of handy tips to avoid accidental poisoning. (Patch.com)
• The Virginia Cooperative Extension will offer well-water testing kits in April for anyone who uses a private well. Well-water users should periodically test well water to ensure that it is free of contaminants and safe to drink. (PWCVA)

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Featured events:

• Christianity Explored (March 22)
• SOS Talent Show and Food Giveaway (March 25)
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Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll catch up with you bright and early soon with another update.

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.