October 22, 2026
Michelle Smith
Northern Neck Added to Drought Disaster
The USDA authorized drought disaster des‑ignations for another 40 Virginia localities, including counties across the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. The move unlocks access for producers to apply for emergency loans.
WASTEWATER SPILL FOUND NEAR CABIN POINT CREEK
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) estimates that up to 14,000 gallons of untreated wastewater may have spilled on Aug. 3 from a leaking sewer line near Cabin Point Creek in Westmoreland.
First Baptist Church Steps Up the Helping Hand
This summer First Baptist Church in Colonial Beach extended a help‑ing hand to those in need. Reverend Dr. David Cunningham and others have been getting together to give away locally sourced produce to those struggling to keep meals on the table.
KING GEORGE JOINING MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR PFAS SETTLEMENT
At the July 21 meeting, the King George Board of Supervisors voted to join a settlement for PFAS groundwater contamination.
NORTHUMBERLAND ADMINISTRATOR GETS AUTHORITY TO APPROVE STYROFOAM BAN EXEMPTIONS
Northumberland County supervisors unanimously voted to authorize County Administrator Luttrell Tadlock to grant temporary exemptions to Virginia’s Styrofoam ban for food‑service containers.
Sheriff Makes ‘Promise’ to Sexual Predators
Following the announcement of recent child sex abuse arrests, Richmond County Sheriff Stephan Smith issued a warning to others who may be in the county but have not yet been identified.
VACo Presents Lancaster’s Achievement Award
In May, Lancaster was announced as one of the recipients of the 2026 Achievement Award from the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) for the Windmill Point County Maritime Recreational Campus. Last week, Katie Boyle, Deputy Director of VACo, came to the Lancaster County Board of Supervisors meeting to present that award.
Montross Town Council votes to assist new businesses
Starting a small business can be an incredibly risky venture. Montross has seen The Gypsy Box and Bunny Burger open their doors for soft openings in recent months. At last week’s meeting, Montross Town Council unanimously voted in favor of helping both busi‑nesses in the form of rent assistance.
POLICE SEARCHING FOR MISSING 13-YEAR-OLD
It has been over a week since 13 year old Z’Mari Gomillion went missing from Tappahannock.
Gypsy Box Hosts Grand Opening
The Gypsy Box, a new art gallery and gift shop, hosted its grand opening last Friday afternoon.