Rugged Terrain Crossfit takes home the trophy at the Waggin’ for Dragons 2022 race
Chamber welcomes Kells Belles to Front Royal
Higher adult meal prices, more preschool slots, new division leader on School Board agenda
Public Advised to Avoid Contact with Algal Mats in sections of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River near Town of Strasburg, VA
17-year-old charged with ‘Driving Under the Influence’ in fatal Rockingham County two-vehicle collision – speed also cited as factor in ongoing investigation
Town Planning Commission moves to officially join Council at Aug. 16 special work session to allow group feedback on contractor Summit Design’s Comp Plan update
Supervisors reject tourism friendly Route 211 Bike Route designation, tables decision on Sheriff’s Office replacement of four vehicles
Boyers updates Town Council on infrastructure projects
Rotary gets the lowdown on plans for downtown Front Royal from Vice-Mayor Cockrell
Despite opposition from FREDA chairman Novak, Town Planning Commission forwards adjusted Data Center proposal
Town Talk: A conversation with Author Todd Dennick: It Will Come: Alaskan Adventures Pale in Comparison to Surviving Sepsis
Town Talk: A conversation with Dr. Chris Ballenger, Superintendent, Warren County Schools
Town Talk: A conversation with Emily Marlow Beck, Marlow Motors – 75th Anniversary
Town Talk: A conversation with Joanna Naccash, Laura Clark and Susan Schwartz – St. John’s Drama Club
Town Talk: A conversation with Robbie Boyer, Director of Public Works – Front Royal paving projects; job opportunities
Hometown Faces: Meet Scott Reid
Hometown Faces: Meet Suzanne Silek
Hometown Faces: Meet John Marlow
Hometown Faces: Meet Harry Bowen – soon to be 100
WATCH: Faces of Our Valley – Selah Theatre Project, Glory Bea!
Local Republican James Bergida enters race for Virginia Senate District 1
Meet the Candidates: Delores R. Oates, Virginia House of Delegates, District 31
Meet the Candidates: Merritt Hale, US Congress, 6th District
Lance Allen announces candidacy for Virginia’s First Senate District
Meet the Candidates: Robert Hupman announces for Virginia Senate seat in new District 1
Sunday Worship in the park
Upcoming Parks and Recreation programs for Warren County
This week’s showtimes at Royal Cinemas as of August 5th
Winchester SPCA holding four-day pet adoption event
Pet Photo Calendar Contest to benefit Winchester SPCA
17-year-old charged with ‘Driving Under the Influence’ in fatal Rockingham County two-vehicle collision – speed also cited as factor in ongoing investigation
EDA Board Chairman Jeff Browne reacts to July civil litigation results ordering total of over $13.35 million paid to the County Economic Development Authority
Jury awards WC EDA $11.9 million-plus in civil compensatory claims against ITFederal and Truc ‘Curt’ Tran
Local man sentenced with misdemeanor sexual battery in Culpeper case
EDA civil liability defendant ‘Curt’ Tran on witness stand for over 4-1/2 hours as trial heads into final day
POLICE: 7 Day FRPD Arrest Report 8/1/2022
POLICE: 7 Day FRPD Arrest Report 7/18/2022
POLICE: 7 Day FRPD Arrest Report 7/11/2022
POLICE: 7 Day FRPD Arrest Report 7/4/2022
POLICE: 7 Day FRPD Arrest Report 6/27/2022
Legal Notice: Hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection
EDA: Request for Qualifications for the provision of debt collection legal services
EDA: Invitation to bid; roof replacement
Special Commissioners Sale Saturday, October 5, 2019: Two adjoining tracts 42 & 41 acres
UPDATE: Paving continues on North Royal Avenue
Town Notice: Road closure – North Commerce Avenue, 6th Street to Royal Avenue; paving continues
Town Notice: Road closure – North Royal Avenue and 6th Street
Town Notice: Paving on North Royal starts July 18
Town Notice: Planning Commission vacancy
EDA Board Chairman Jeff Browne reacts to July civil litigation results ordering total of over $13.35 million paid to the County Economic Development Authority
Jury awards WC EDA $11.9 million-plus in civil compensatory claims against ITFederal and Truc ‘Curt’ Tran
EDA civil liability defendant ‘Curt’ Tran on witness stand for over 4-1/2 hours as trial heads into final day
EDA vs. Tran/ITFederal civil liability and counterclaim trial heads into third day with defense poised to call final series of witnesses
First day of $11-million EDA vs. ‘Curt’ Tran civil liability trial concludes
EDA Board Chairman Jeff Browne reacts to July civil litigation results ordering total of over $13.35 million paid to the County Economic Development Authority
Jury awards WC EDA $11.9 million-plus in civil compensatory claims against ITFederal and Truc ‘Curt’ Tran
EDA civil liability defendant ‘Curt’ Tran on witness stand for over 4-1/2 hours as trial heads into final day
EDA vs. Tran/ITFederal civil liability and counterclaim trial heads into third day with defense poised to call final series of witnesses
First day of $11-million EDA vs. ‘Curt’ Tran civil liability trial concludes
Chamber welcomes Kells Belles to Front Royal
Chamber welcomes Garcia & Gavino to Front Royal
Local Senior Center reopens with new location and new name
Quality Title moves to a new home in Front Royal
Grand re-opening & ribbon cutting at Royal Cinemas
Kaine, Murkowski, Sinema, and Collins introduce legislation to codify Roe v. Wade
Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – July 29, 2022
Kaine statement on Senate passage of bill to boost domestic chip manufacturing
Warner, Kaine, Wexton, Beyer, Connolly press Biden to raise the detention of Virginian Asim Ghafoor with Emirati government
Senators introduce reforms to the Electoral Count Act of 1887
Public Advised to Avoid Contact with Algal Mats in sections of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River near Town of Strasburg, VA
17-year-old charged with ‘Driving Under the Influence’ in fatal Rockingham County two-vehicle collision – speed also cited as factor in ongoing investigation
Laurel Ridge breaks ground on skilled trades center on Fauquier Campus
Three quarters of Shenandoah Waterway locations sampled unsafe for swimming because of high bacteria levels
Fauquier Health expands new Primary & Specialty Care office in Gainesville and welcomes Family Medicine provider Jenna Wong, DO
Governor Glenn Youngkin ceremonially signs legislation investing in school facilities across the Commonwealth
Sales Tax Holiday August 5-7, could be last one for Virginia
Hilton solidifies Virginia footprint, xxpanding global headquarters in Fairfax County
Attorney General Miyares announces the formation of a nationwide Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force
Governor Glenn Youngkin declares State of Emergency in response to flooding in Southwest Virginia
Playoff Game 2 : Front Royal Cardinals vs Woodstock River Bandits – July 27
Rescheduled: Front Royal Cardinals vs Strasburg Express – Monday, July 25
Front Royal Cardinals vs Purceville Cannons – Thursday, July 21
Front Royal Cardinals vs New Market Rebels – Sunday, July 24
CANCELED: Valley Baseball League: All Star Game at the “Bing” – Sunday, July 17th
Warren County High School Graduation – Saturday, May 28, 2022
Warren County High School Class of 2021 graduation ceremony
Baccalaureate service for graduating seniors
Skyline vs Warren County: High School Boys basketball game livestreaming February 3, 2021 at 5:45pm
Skyline HS vs Warren County HS: Girls basketball game livestreaming January 8, 2021 at 5:45pm
Skyline High School Graduation – Saturday, May 28, 2022
Skyline High School Class of 2021 Graduation Ceremony
Baccalaureate service for graduating seniors
Skyline vs Independence High School, February 12, 2021 at 6 PM in the third round of the Region 3B Basketball Tournament
Skyline vs James Monroe High School, February 9, 2021 at 6 PM in the second round of the Region 3B Basketball Tournament
Warren County Middle School vs Skyline Middle School – Girls Basketball, October 4, 2021
Warren County Middle School vs Frederick County Middle School – Girls Basketball, September 27, 2021
Warren County Middle School vs Daniel Morgan Middle School – Girls Basketball, September 23, 2021
Warren County Middle School vs Admiral Richard E. Byrd Middle School – Girls Basketball, September 20th, 2021
Warren County Middle School Academic Honors Ceremony – 8th Grade
Warren County Middle School vs Skyline Middle School – Girls Basketball, October 4, 2021
Skyline Middle School Academic Honors Ceremony – 8th Grade
Skyline Middle School Academic Honors Ceremony – 7th Grade
Skyline Middle School Academic Honors Ceremony – 6th Grade
Skyline Middle School vs Daniel Morgan, June 3rd – Girls Volleyball
Hilda J. Barbour Elementary School – 5th Grade Graduation Event
WATCH: E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School – 5th Grade Graduation Parade
WATCH: Ressie Jeffries Elementary School – 5th Grade Graduation Parade
WATCH: Leslie Fox Keyser Elementary School – 5th Grade Graduation Parade
5 reasons you may be struggling to get home insurance
Virginia’s housing market sees sharpest drop in sales since May 2020
3 reasons to buy an intergenerational home
Real Estate and Community News (June/July 2022) with Jen Avery, REALTOR
3 golden rules for painting your house before selling it
OPEN HOUSE: 159 High Point Court, Front Royal – This Saturday, April 2nd
House for sale: 159 High Point Court, Front Royal
House for sale: 104 Foam Flower, Lake Frederick
Property for sale: 425 N Royal Ave, Front Royal – Watch the tour!
House for sale: 361 Walnut Drive, Front Royal – Watch the tour!
Start your day with a smile
Start your day with a smile
Start your day with a smile
Start your day with a smile
Start your day with a smile
Is an accelerated program right for your child?
3 tips for choosing sports shoes for your child
On the road to academic success
Drivers and footwear: Does it matter?
How to fit and use a backpack
To Censor or not to Censor, that is a Difficult Question
The Cracked Acorn: 2 or more
The Cracked Acorn: The Foot Step
The Cracked Acorn: Three Crosses
Should I Choose Passion or Duty?
Why we should be ‘Babyish’ in Love
The School of Life: How to Stop Playing Games in Love
The School of Life: How You Can Be Too Clever
Looking Back: A Mothers Revenge – Hannah Duston
Ben Franklin and his miraculous lightning rod
The Year Without A Summer : “Eighteen Hundred & Froze To Death”
America’s veterans remembered and honored for their service across the years
How much do you know about Veterans Day?
5 meaningful ways to celebrate Veterans Day
5 ways to celebrate Veterans Day
The 11hour of the 11th day of the 11th month – Veterans Day 2020
Rugged Terrain Crossfit takes home the trophy at the Waggin’ for Dragons 2022 race
Community groups and businesses donate almost 500 backpacks
2022 YES Conference | Finding Your Balance for our high school students
Marlow Motors 75 Acts of Kindness extends to the House of Hope
Real Estate and Community News (June/July 2022) with Jen Avery, REALTOR
Help replenish the blood supply after holiday weekend
Community Blood Drive to be held this Wednesday, March 3rd
Santa Claus is coming to Town, Warren County!
A “COVID Christmas” message from Santa
“Wreaths Across America Day” will be celebrated December 19th
Warren Heritage Society announces the publication of their newest book, “Coming Together”
Send bracelets to quarantined residents of Commonwealth Assisted Living in Front Royal through WeAreSPACE.org
Warren’s Heritage: Native American History-Part 10
Warren’s Heritage: Native American History-Part 9
Warren’s Heritage: Native American History-Part 8
Breakfast with Barry Lee – Dishing out ample servings of positivity, humor, and community spirit.
Leaders: Peter Thiel looks to future
Savings interest rates may rise slowly
From farming to mapping the world: Meet Gladys West
The history of Independent Retailer Month
In pursuit of the well-trimmed lawn
How to land your first job as a recent graduate
3 interesting jobs in senior residences
Do you have what it takes to be a sprinkler fitter?
Career change: Why you should consult a career counselor
Roasted tomato and goat cheese bruschetta
Extra watermelon? Try these refreshing drinks
3 ways to make homemade ice cream
5 of the best draft horse breeds
How will climate change impact agriculture?
Low-fat or full-fat dairy? It’s complicated
4 symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
How a school psychologist can help your child
Why it’s important to call an exterminator
5 things you should never throw in the recycling bin
How to choose the right ceiling fan for your home
Credit reporting changes in July
4 symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
What you need to know about compression stockings
Photography: more than a hobby
How seniors can deter thieves and prevent muggings
Do you know Louis Braille?
5 tips for camping in your backyard
3 ways to have fun with soap bubbles
How well do you know your summer sports?
Nature quiz: find the odd one out
What you need to know about head pressing in pets
Can you teach your dog to speak?
Adopting a pet duck: what you need to know
“I need to eat every three hours”
“Despite my name, I’m not from Guinea!”
How to prepare for a solo trip
5 good reasons to book your cruise early
The ‘big four’ driver distractions
How to pack your vehicle for a road trip
How to clean your tires and wheels
Is it safe for young children to sit in the front seat?
Fleet managers turn to electric cars
Independence Day quiz: patriotic quotes
Why Independence Day is celebrated on July 4
The Declaration of Independence: What Does it Say?
The surprisingly messy history of flag cake
The Warren County School Board during its Wednesday, August 3 regular meeting unanimously approved several items — including additional preschool slots and higher prices for adult meals served at the schools — and met a new school division assistant superintendent.
Warren County Public Schools (WCPS) Superintendent Christopher Ballenger introduced board members to the school division’s new Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Heather Bragg, a WCPS Instructional Resource Team member for the last five years who specialized in English, history, and foreign language instruction. Bragg replaces Alan Fox, who formerly held the position before retiring in June.
Heather Bragg (above, at podium) was introduced as the new WCPS Assistant Superintendent of Instruction during the Warren County School Board’s Wednesday, August 3 meeting.
“I believe that my time here [with WCPS] over the last five years… has prepared me to begin the job, but I know that I’ll have a lot to learn and look forward to engaging in those partnerships and continuing those relationships with the principals, teachers, and staff that I’ve already established,” Bragg said, adding that she’s “truly passionate about instruction and curriculum and the positive impact it can have on the lives of our students.”
WCPS Director of Special Services Michael Hirsch (above) provided the School Board with updated COVID-19 guidance, noting that major changes include those for people who are asymptomatic, or who show no symptoms of the virus.
“They no longer have to quarantine,” said Hirsch. “Persons who test positive for COVID should isolate for five days. If they are asymptomatic, their symptoms are resolving, and they’ve been fever-free for 24 hours, they may return to programming after five days.”
Ballenger added that contract tracing by school nurses also is no longer required. “We’re going back to ‘if you’re sick, stay home; if you’re not sick, then come to school,’” he said.
In School Board action, all members were present, including School Board Chair Kristen Pence, Vice Chair Ralph Rinaldi, and members Antoinette Funk, Andrea Lo, and Melanie Salins.
The board unanimously approved 10 items on Wednesday. Among the highlights were approvals for:
1) The 2022-2023 Dual Enrollment Contract between Laurel Ridge Community College and WCPS that sets out the terms and conditions for which courses will be offered to high school students who opt to take college-level courses and receive both college credit and high school credit toward graduation.
2) The first amendment to the lease agreement between Warren County, the Warren County School Board, and the Samuels Public Library for the development and maintenance of an amphitheater adjacent to the library. The original lease agreement between the School Board and Warren County, as well as the lease agreement between Warren County and the Board of Trustees of Samuels Public Library did not permit the library campus to be used for anything except a library, according to WCPS Assistant Superintendent for Administration George “Buck” Smith. The first amendment allows for a portion of the library campus to be used for the construction and operation of the open-air amphitheater, as well as the library, he said.
3) Increasing the adult breakfast rate to $2.40 and the adult lunch rate to $4.00 effective August 9, in order to meet the 2022-2023 Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) minimum Adult Price requirement. Smith explained that adult meal prices must be high enough to compensate for the total paid reimbursement and the commodity value that is not provided by the federal government for these meals. “The paid reimbursement and commodity rates change each school year, meaning adult meal prices may change each year,” said Smith.
4) One additional Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) teacher and three additional VPI assistants at a cost of $145,000 and $5,000 in non-labor funds for a total of $150,000, covered by an increase in the VPI state allocation. The superintendent is also authorized to request additional appropriations from the Warren County Board of Supervisors. Hirsch said that WCPS has experienced an increase in pre-K enrollment that, in turn, warranted an increase in the allocation from VDOE. “Our new allocation is 173 slots, which brings our dollar allocation to $714,044,” he said. “Our current appropriation for this school year was $564,044.”
5) Five wheelchair-accessible vehicles to transport students that will be largely funded through the $309,038.12 American Rescue Plan flowthrough grant WCPS was awarded in July 2021. Hirsch said the vehicles will alleviate space issues and support social distancing in vehicles. The total cost of the vehicles is $298,450. The balance of $10,588.12 will be used to support plexiglass, car seats, and other accessories that will enhance COVID-19 mitigation strategies, said Hirsch.
Click here to watch the Warren County School Board’s August 3 meeting.
Chamber welcomes Kells Belles to Front Royal
Public Advised to Avoid Contact with Algal Mats in sections of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River near Town of Strasburg, VA
New early childhood investments are spurring greater enrollment in preschool programs
Waggin’ for Dragons 2022 is a wrap.
Thank you to all of the participants and volunteers who spent their day with us down on the Shenandoah River with the 22Dragons crew. This year this fun boat race will benefit the Humane Society of Warren County, Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, and United Way of Front Royal.
Check out this lineup of teams this year! All of these boats raised at least 1,000 as an entry fee. There were several fierce rivalries that added to the energy and fun!
The winner of the race on the water was Rugged Terrain Crossfit! Congratulations!!
This tough crew came out and gave it their all. Fun banter between the Sheriff’s team and Crossfit because there was wife vs husband action on the two boats! Be sure to stop by the Rugged Terrain gym to see this gorgeous Waggin’ for Dragons trophy in person. Bragging rights and good luck will live at this gym for the next year!
There were two other categories that were judged. Most funds were raised and the most spirited teams. The Rotary River Rats brought home both of these honors netting a total of $5,011 in funds raised, a full $2,000 more than next in line. All three of our local Rotary clubs were represented on the boat – Rotary Club of Warren County, Rotary Club of Front Royal, and the Rotary Club of Northern Shenandoah Valley. The team had a representative from the House of Hope, Department of Social Services, and I’m Just Me Movement (a local non-profit that supports our youth through mentoring and positive reinforcement) rowing as well!
The Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce, along with Town Mayor Chris Holloway, Councilman Gary Gilespie, and friends welcomed Kells Belles to Main Street in downtown Front Royal. Kells Belles is the dream of Kelly Wahl to provide a women’s fashion boutique to the Front Royal community.
Kells Belles is located at 213 E. Main Street in downtown Front Royal. Kelly says she will be open on Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Find out more on Facebook or call 540-551-3157.
An Algal Mat Alert has been issued for the North Fork Shenandoah River for the Town of Strasburg. The alert area begins above the town at approximately Route 644 (Deep Hollow Lane), to include the Deer Rapids Road Bridge, to below the town at approximately Route 611 (Long Meadow Road), for a total of approximately 11.5 miles. Potentially toxic algae mats could be widespread or patchy in areas within this vicinity. Recreational use may continue providing those using the waterway take caution to avoid contact with the algae mats. If mats appear unavoidable in an area, the public should discontinue recreational activities there.
Algal Mat Alert signs have been posted near the boat ramp at Deer Rapids and at public access points along the North Fork Shenandoah River in Strasburg. The area of the river where algal mats have been investigated can be seen on the interactive Harmful Algal Bloom Map.
While this alert applies to this particular area, everyone is reminded to avoid areas in any natural waterway that have algal mats or discolored, scummy water. People should also avoid allowing their pets to swim in areas where mat material is observed. Contact with these mats may cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If mats are producing toxins, consumption of mats could be fatal to dogs and other animals when ingested. Sadly, animal deaths may occur suddenly following exposure. Humans should never consume water or material from a natural waterbody because this water is not treated water and is not suitable for consumption.
Although cyanotoxins were either below or just above detection in water samples tested from these locations, it is important to remember that toxin concentrations within the mats may be much more highly concentrated than those that may be in the water column. Avoiding contact with mats should avoid the release of toxins to the water, if mats are producing them.
VDH has observed no evidence of impacts to drinking water at this time. The Office of Drinking Water is working with drinking water utilities to protect drinking water sources.
The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is a popular local recreation area for boating, swimming and fishing. Please look for Algal Mat Alert signs posted along the river shoreline at public access points and observe the advisory precautions. Recreational uses may continue provided proper caution to avoid mats is observed. It is best to ensure pets, livestock and horses do not have access to this section of the river when mats are present.
Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless, however, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins. Avoid discolored water, scums or mat material that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.
To prevent illness, people should:
The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the Virginia Department of Health, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Analysis Lab, will continue to monitor mats in the river. In general, Algal Mat Alerts may be lifted following two consecutive observations where mats are not widespread and unavoidable and preferably, as resources allow, when water column cell counts and toxin concentrations are below safe swimming thresholds. An Algal Mat Alert may also be lifted or maintained at the discretion of the health department. For example, after one test an advisory may be lifted if results are within safe levels for swimming if other information indicates exposure or human health risk is low.
For more information about harmful algae blooms, Algal Mat Advisories and Recreational Water Advisories visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.
According to Virginia State Police (VSP) a 17-year-old driver has been charged with “Driving Under the Influence” in the death of a 71-year-old driver in a mid-evening two-vehicle collision Wednesday, August 3, in Rockingham County. According to the VSP press release on the accident the northbound 2008 BMW driven by the unidentified 17-year-old minor male was “traveling at a high rate of speed” when it and a 1997 Mercury Villager attempting to make a left turn onto Route 42 after stopping at a westbound stop sign on Route 765, collided. There was one passenger in each vehicle, another 17-year-old male in the BMW, and a 78-year-old female in the Mercury. The investigation into the accident continues.
Both occupants of the Mercury, driver Gerald L. Will (71) of Hinton, Va., and Jean E. Will (78) also of Hinton, were transported from the scene with life-threatening injuries. The State Police Press Release from the desk of VSP Public Information Officer Sgt. Brent Coffey reported that the two involved 17-year-olds suffered “minor injuries” and were also transported from the scene for treatment. Ms. Will was transported to the UVA Medical Center, the other three involved parties to the Sentara RMH Medical Center. VSP reported that all four involved people were wearing seatbelts when the accident occurred.
Below is the VSP release on the fatal collision in its entirety:
Virginia State Police Trooper J. Joseph is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash in Rockingham County. The crash occurred Wednesday, (August 3) at 9:25 p.m. at the intersection of Route 42 (Harpine Hwy) and Route 765 (Buttermilk Creek Rd).
A 1997 Mercury Villager was traveling west on Route 765 when it stopped at a stop sign. As the Mercury attempted a left turn onto Route 42 it collided with a northbound 2008 BMW 328I. The BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed.
The driver of the Mercury, Gerald L. Will, 71, of Hinton, Va., suffered life-threatening injuries due to the crash and was transported to Sentara RMH Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries. He was wearing a seatbelt.
A passenger in the Mercury, Jean E. Will, 78, of Hinton, Va., suffered life-threatening injuries due to the crash and was transported to UVA Medical Center for treatment. She was wearing a seatbelt.
The driver of the BMW, a 17-year-old male, of Harrisonburg, Va., suffered minor injuries due to the crash and was transported to Sentara RMH Medical Center for treatment. The male was wearing a seatbelt.
A passenger in the BMW, a 17 year-old male, of Rockingham, Va., suffered minor injuries and was transported to Sentara RMH Medical Center for treatment. He was wearing a seatbelt.
The driver of the BMW was charged with driving under the influence.
The crash remains under investigation.
On July 28th, Warren Coalition members and staff gathered for the annual Awards & Appreciation Luncheon at the Warren County Community Center. This event has traditionally recognized the Warren Coalition Member of the Year and demonstrated appreciation for members who have shown consistent dedication throughout the year. This year, there was also a new award presented: the Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children in Warren County.
Warren Coalition Executive Director Christa Shifflett presents the Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children in Warren County to Roger P. Smelser during the Warren Coalition Awards & Appreciation Luncheon on July 28th.
Larry M. Funk was a member of Warren Coalition for more than 20 years, serving in a number of positions to include Vice President and President during that time. He was the Warren County Sheriff’s Office D.A.R.E. instructor and Community Policing representative for 27 of his 28 years of his law enforcement career, and frequently went above and beyond his role in service to the children of Warren County. He was also an elder at his church and served as assistant Sunday school superintendent and as a youth Sunday school teacher. During the luncheon, Larry was remembered with fondness.
“Larry loved children. The Coalition was the apple of his eye,” his wife, Linda, said.
“It’s really hard to follow a man like my father,” his son, William, acknowledged. “He was a wonderful man. He cared so much about kids, and treating others the way you want to be treated was also a priority for him.”
“He was such a cheerleader for the Coalition,” said Christa Shifflett, Warren Coalition Executive Director. “The uplifting words, the posts online that he was pleased and honored to be a part of such a great organization supporting the kids of Warren County. Continuously promoting, promoting, promoting.”
Submissions for the award were accepted from early May through June 3rd. A committee of three members from the Warren Coalition independently reviewed the nominations and sent their top four choices to Christa. Three people were selected by all three committee members, and a fourth received two votes. Christa forwarded those four nominations to Linda and William for the final decision.
Of the 18 nominations submitted, five of them were for this year’s recipient of the Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children: Roger P. Smelser, Jr.
Roger has been a coach, manager, and President of Front Royal Little League for over 30 years, serving even during times of illness. “Roger is there for the children and would do anything for any of these children in the league,” wrote one supporter. “[He] would give you the shirt of his back if he needed to. [He] is a role model to all the baseball children which he has been coaching for over 30 years.”
“His kindness, his honesty, his hard work, his dedication to the youth in our town and county has endured for many decades. He continues to amaze me how much he cares for our children,” another person wrote in.
“[Roger] maintains community outreach, knows the kids by name, donates his time every day, maintaining the fields, umpiring games, and especially great relationship and much respect from all the kids,” wrote another.
While there were many worthy nominees, the choice of Roger Smelser for the first Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children was clear. “What really struck me was that everything he does is volunteer-based,” Linda commented.
As Christa presented the award to Roger, she said, “Sir, thank you so much for your dedication to the kids in Warren County. Trust me when I tell you the community loves you and recognizes how much you have given to the kids.”
Clearly moved by the award, Roger thanked everyone, saying, “It’s an honor. I know with Larry, it was all about kids. To even be considered [for this award] in his name is special.”
Roger received an engraved crystal award and a $500 cash prize. In addition, his name has been engraved on a plaque that will list each year’s honoree and be kept in the Warren Coalition office.
In addition to presenting the Larry M. Funk Award during the luncheon, the Coalition recognized Nick Croft as the Member of the Year. This is the second consecutive Member of the Year Award for Nick, who has received the award multiple times during his tenure with the Coalition. Despite facing serious challenges this past year, he still continued to provide much-needed technical support and website assistance to the Coalition. Nick also hosts the Coalition website on his own server.
Additional awards included a Perfect Attendance Award for Robbie Seal of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and three people received the Attendance Award for being at 80% of the Coalition meetings: Jessica Dandridge from WCPS, Alexia Rosen from Family Preservation Services, and Susan Smith with WCPS.
Warren Coalition is a nonprofit agency established in 1994 to help fill the gaps in health care and substance misuse awareness to the community. The Coalition began under the guidance of Warren Memorial Hospital as an outreach project, but it has since grown and was incorporated in 2001. The office is currently located in the Warren County Community Center. Their mission is to make Warren County a safe, healthy, and drug-free community through many programs and in collaboration with 15+ member agencies.
A Front Royal, Va. man and his son drowned Monday afternoon in the Potomac River at Swan Point in Charles County, Md., according to the Maryland Natural Resources Police Department.
According to Maryland Natural Resources Police Captain Chris Morris, around 4:55 p.m. on Monday, August 1, officers were dispatched to the Swan Point area of the Potomac River in Charles County for a report of missing swimmers.
Elias Isai Sandoval Pimentel, 43, of Front Royal VA, his wife, and three children had anchored their 23’ bowrider on the Potomac River. Two of the children (ages 10 and 12) were swimming when both children began to struggle in the water. Police say Mr. Pimentel entered the water to help both children. Pimentel and his 10-year-old son disappeared in the water and did not resurface. Captain Morris wrote in the release that the 12-year-old child was recovered from the water and transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Maryland Natural Resources did not identify the minor child in the release, though family members posted information on social media stating that Mr. Pimentel and his son, Samuel Pimentel Spain, 10, perished by drowning on Monday.
Morris said that Samuel’s body was recovered by the Charles County Dive Team at 10:44 p.m. Monday evening, with search efforts continuing throughout the night. Mr. Pimentel’s body was found at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 2.
Natural Resources Police, United States Coast Guard, Cobb Island Volunteer Fire/EMS, Charles County Dive and Rescue, Newburg Volunteer Fire, Bel Alton Volunteer Fire and EMS, Hughesville Volunteer EMS, Charles County Department of Emergency Services, Seventh District Fire Company, Calvert County Dive Team, and the Naval District Washington Fire/EMS, assisted with the search of the area.
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