Help Protect Spotsylvania's Heritage: In March, Spotsylvania County residents joined forces to prevent the Dogwood Development Group from building a large and inappropriate development along Route 3. Although Dogwood's proposal was defeated, plans for a smaller but equally inappropriate development along this historic corridor remain on the books.

The Army Corps of Engineers is currently considering a development permit for the Orrock Tract, the northern 1/3 of the Mullins Farm and a key part of the Chancellorsville Battlefield Historic District. If the Orrock Tract permit is approved, it will not just destroy part of the battlefield. It will also be the first in a series of developments that will eventually transform part of the Mullins Farm into a shopping mall and turn Route 3 into one vast parking lot.

Sadly, the Army Corps refuses to work with the preservation community and the landowner to formulate a compromise that would benefit the entire county. Instead, the Army Corps is rushing to judgment to appease the landowner - and you and other county residents will pay the price.

There is still time to stop this plan — but only if you get involved NOW. You can voice your opposition at a special meeting on July 1 at Massaponax High School. The meeting has been called to solicit public comment on development of the Orrock Tract. Please plan to attend!