Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans and their families often qualify for special tax benefits. An IRS news release describes some of the most common deductions and exclusions and tells where to get more information.

Governor Terry McAuliffe is on an extended trade mission to southeast Asia until Oct. 29. Meanwhile his office is busy announcing that four companies so far this week are planning expansions which will create 313 new jobs and invest $90.6 million in business operations. The companies are already doing business in Botetourt, Carroll and Charlotte counties and the city of Virginia Beach.

Elijah Johnson, former director of housing, has been named Deputy County Executive overseeing the Human Services agencies in Prince William County.

Prince William County VA Police Department's crime report for Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014

New boundaries for the 12th high school in Prince William County will "prioritize racial/ethnic diversity," according to a news release from the school division. The U.S. Department of Justice raised concerns about the first plan but says this version will pass muster.

Police were dispatched to T. Clay Wood Elementary School located at 10600 Kettle Run Rd in Bristow (20136) to investigate after school staff reported a vehicle matching the description of the vehicle involved in the murder was unoccupied and parked in the school lot. TCW students were taken to Brentsville High School as a precaution due to the police activity in the area.

Students from T. Clay Wood Elementary School in Nokesville were transported to Brentsville District High School as a precaution due to continued police activity in the area, according to Irene Cromer, spokesman for Prince William County schools.

Murder Investigation – On October 19th at 6:25AM, Prince William County police officers responded to the 12700 block of Lednock Way in Bristow (20136) to investigate a shooting, according to a report from Off. Jonathan Perok, police department spokesman.

Since blood donations often decline during the holidays, the American Red Cross is encouraging people to make blood donation appointments now – before the holidays – to help ensure blood is available for patients in need.