A family of five was displaced this morning when fire broke out on the rear deck of a Lake Ridge townhouse on Tatiana Way and extended up into the attic and minimal damage to one adjoining home.

April is Distracted Driver Awareness Month and members of the Haymarket VA Police Department are participating in a nationwide campaign to spread the word about the dangers of driving while distracted. Texting is the worst distraction because it requires use of the driver's hands, eyes, and mind to read and to answer a text message, police said.

Raise the ‘Woof’ for the City of Manasas Park's first doggie bake sale, a fundraiser for the Manassas Park Dog Park that will be held at the park on Saturday, April 21, from noon to 3 p.m. rain or shine. Treats for dogs and owners will be available.

One person's discards and recyclables could be just the treasures another person is seeking. Find out on Saturday, April 28, when the City of Manassas Park VA holds a giant community yard sale in the main parking lot of the city's Community Center with spaces at $5 each.

Manassas VA City Police Department's crime report for Tuesday, April 17, 2012 includes 2 reports of aggravated assault.

Recycling and the protecting environment will be the focus of Spring Cleaning Day in Old Town Manassas VA on Saturday, April; 21. There will be entertainment, a shred-it truck, children's activities, sidewalk sale and farmers market.

A 2.75-mile dog walk in Lake Ridge VA on Saturday, April 28 will raise funds for the first public dog park in Prince William County. The dog park will be located in Lake Ridge at the intersection of Minnieville, Colby and Sturbridge Roads.

The Manassas VA City Police Department is asking for comments from the community on its grant application for the 2012 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program. Residents should respond before the filing deadline of May 14. The police department proposes purchases of supplies and equipment to facilitate police work and officer and community safety at a total cost of $19,639.

Prince William County VA seniors 60 and older can adopt a senior dog or cat age 5 and older for free through a new program, "Seniors for Seniors," at the Prince William County Animal Shelter. All pets will be microchipped and there will be a microchip registration charge.