Late February 2015 Warren and Frederick County Report

Warren FREE County Report WarrenCountyVA.com

Volume X, Issue 4 · Late February, 2015

FrederickCounty.com

Royal Cinemas latest target of Front Royal’s ‘Morality Police’ 10-17

‘Bag ladies’ Wakefield kids step up for homeless

32

Front Royal delays decision on building inspector

A legacy of concern - Riverkeeper Kelble prepares for change

2

8

Page • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

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“This is a great bargaining tool that you have … And I don’t know if you really realize it or not, but this is something that the county doesn’t want to give up; they don’t want to give up this control. And … to shoot this down … when you’re negotiating, I think would not be wise.” – Mike McCool

Front Royal

Council delays vote on building inspector to late March

The boarded-up Afton Inn appears to be ready for marketing and commercial redevelopment at the center of Front Royal’s Historic Downtown. Should the town oversee permitting for that redevelopment from right across the street?

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report An expected showdown vote over whether to pursue an independent

town building inspections department failed to materialize at the February 9 Front Royal Town Council meeting. Despite having spent a good two years mulling the dynam-

ics – primarily costs versus potential economic benefit – since the idea was first broached, unanswered questions on details remain a sticking point.

Bret Hrbek, a past supporter of the idea, made the motion to postpone the vote to council’s meeting of March 23. Gene Tewalt, who has said he needs more information to support the idea, seconded that motion, which then passed unanimously by a roll call vote.

Part of the dynamic of the delay may be the election of two new councilmen who took office this January familiarizing themselves with the issue. However, the lingering questions about staff numbers, costs and potential economic benefit to the town apparently remain, even for those in place throughout the full two years of off-and-on consideration.

Contacted later, Hrbek insisted that the department could be added without a tax increase and observed that the consequences of not adding the town building inspector could well be higher taxes on citizens in the future.

“We do not need to raise taxes to

create this department. We can make room in the current budget if this is a priority,” Hrbek says. “However, if we continue to see a decline in business because of the current building inspection situation then we will have to raise taxes on the town taxpayer to pay for our current operations. We know that Warren County has a bad reputation when it comes to the building inspections department. Even one of our architectural candidates for the new police department alluded to the more trying obstacles Warren County imposes on development at the work session in December.”

Hrbek said that of the eight largest towns in the Commonwealth of Virginia, only Front Royal and Leesburg do not have a building inspections department or its equivalent, adding, “Leesburg does not have an economic development issue. And this really is an economic development issue. The Town Council should not continue to outsource our core responsibilities to other political entities. The people of the Town of Front Royal should control their own economic fate.”

Why?

At a February 2 work session, council was notified that its planning commission joined the Mayor’s Economic Committee in endorsing the idea. However, Town Planning Director Jeremy Camp explained that commission endorsement came with the caveat “if YOU want to do it.” The commission’s endorsement recommended if the building inspector’s position was added, it be run through the town planning department.

Proponents of the addition of a town building inspection department cite easing the inspection system, particularly on commercial development and redevelopment projects, and bypassing a county department, as Hrbek stated, has a negative reputation within segments of the regional building community for being particularly difficult and hard line in its interpretation of state laws.

Hrbek and other supporters have also cited an innate conflict of interest between the town and county in

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And so goes the dance of municipal dominance between the County of Warren and its largest independent governmental subdivision, the Town of Front Royal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; maybe someone should write a book about it. They could call it â&#x20AC;&#x153;50 Shades of â&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?

Front Royal TOWN, from competing for future commercial development. The notion of allowing your chief economic competitor to control the approval process on commercial development and redevelopment within your boundaries exposes what may be the â&#x20AC;&#x153;elephant in the roomâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a lack of trust between the town and county governments as both jockey for future economic development.

The major â&#x20AC;&#x153;peanutâ&#x20AC;? feeding that elephant is the inability of the town and county to come to a mutually acceptable resolution on shared revenues from commercial development in the Route 522/340 Corridor enabled by the 1998 Corridor Agreement that enabled that development (see â&#x20AC;&#x153;Negotiationsâ&#x20AC;? subheader below).

The idea of an independent town department picked up momentum when the Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Economic Committee officially endorsed the idea last fall. On February 9, only one person addressed the issue during the Public Comments portion of the meeting.

That was National Media Services owner and Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Economic Committee member Mike McCool, who reiterated his own and the committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support and rationale for the idea. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you know I was on Mayor Darrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Committee for Economic Development, and one of the items we came up with was this building inspector position, primarily to give council a tool to use to identify a problem we have in that [county] position,â&#x20AC;?

McCool began, adding pointedly, â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you think about the effect that position has on all the development in our town, and to bring it up that we need one even though the county has been providing it forever, DOES indicate that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a serious problem in that area. And if you talk to builders and anyone else doing any kind of construction or homeowners, you know that, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really a thorn in their side. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you think about the money itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to cost, also think about the money that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to lose. All it takes is one or two people to work with their feet and go somewhere else because of the aggravation or just the bad feeling they are getting and the stories they are sharing with each other,â&#x20AC;? McCool said of what he believes is a negative reputation the Warren County Building Inspection Department has developed in the regional building community.

Also on the funding aspect, especially in a time of slow building, McCool pointed out that if endorsed, the idea of establishing an independent town department didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be enacted immediately. And if unstated, the potential of the coming commercial redevelopment of the 150-acre Avtex/Royal Phoenix Business Park now released and being

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marketed for the town by the Economic Development Authority hung heavily over McCoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comments.

Finally, McCool made the suggestion to table a vote, rather than kill the idea if the votes werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t there to approve it on February 9, observing, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a great bargaining tool that you have with the county. And I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if you really realize it or not, but this is something that the county doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to give up; they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to give up this control. And I think to shoot this down at this point when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re negotiating, I think would not be wise.â&#x20AC;?

Negotiations The negotiations McCool addressed are the ongoing discussions between the town and county about resolving the revenue-expenditure dispute in the Route 522/340 North Corridor commercial district.

As most of you who have been paying attention over the past five-to-15 years know, the two county shopping centers just off the Interstate 66 intersection with Routes 522/340 were enabled by a first-of-a-kind agreement in the Commonwealth of Virginia known as the 1998 Corridor Agreement.

That agreement enabled the extension of town central water and sewer utilities on to county land without the necessity that the town, first annex that land. That then vacant corridor land off I-66 was viewed as the prime location of future commercial development in a community in dire

need of an expanded commercial tax base.

In exchange for extending its central water-sewer utilities outside its boundaries for a common community good, the agreement approved by a three-judge state panel allowed the Town of Front Royal to collect fees attached to its utility bills with county commercial customers that would compensate it for lost commercial tax revenue. While experience and Monday-morning quarterbacking revealed some potentially fatal flaws â&#x20AC;&#x201C; primarily creating a competition base against your own business community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in that idea designed to head off a hostile annexation fight between Front Royal and Warren County, it remains the root of most new commercial development here to this day.

But the two municipalities have been dancing around the consequences and implications of a lawsuit the town lost in 2009 that cost Front Royal an estimated 80 percent of its anticipated PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) fee revenue. The court ruling removed those fees attached to meals tax revenue. That ruling in a lawsuit brought by three corridor chain restaurants ruled that meals taxes, and consequently lodging taxes at hotels, were NOT taxes on the businesses as allowed in the Corridor Agreement contracts, but rather â&#x20AC;&#x153;pass-throughâ&#x20AC;? taxes on the customers of the restaurants.

That court decision removed an estimated $450,000 of initial PILOT fee revenues of $600,000 the town was

Warren County Parks and Recreation Department

collecting in 2007-08. The town has reworded subsequent corridor utility contracts to allow â&#x20AC;&#x153;pass-throughâ&#x20AC;? taxes on meals and lodging. However, the potential of taxing post-2009 corridor businesses at different rates than those customers with original utility contracts presents a whole new set of problems.

And while the town has looked to the county to help compensate it for that lost PILOT fee revenue, the county has essentially been that the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue problem is one between the town and its corridor utility customers.

Despite that perspective, the county has agreed to assume some former town costs on joint endeavors since 2010. Those cost assumptions are $26,855 in annual operational funding to the town-county Economic Development Authority and $95,000 in annual funding to Samuelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Public Library, totaling about $122,000 annually assumed in increments since 2013. For some on the town side that total has left the town holding the bag on about $2.4 million of lost corridor revenue since 2010.

And that revenue impasse, coupled with a belief that the Warren County Building Inspections Department has been somewhat heavy handed in permitting either new or existing

business inside the town limits â&#x20AC;&#x201C; talk to the owner of Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Steakhouse as a reference point â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is how the elephant of distrust has developed and grown over the past five years.

And while an attempt to reach a solution is currently being pursued that would split the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meals and lodging tax revenues with the town, a proposed condition banning ANY future expansion of the town limits while that amended agreement is in place has become a sticking point.

The county board of supervisors went into closed session on February 17 to discuss 522 Corridor issues.

Following that closed session, Happy Creek Supervisor Tony Carter commented publicly that perhaps the town and county will soon be able â&#x20AC;&#x153;get this resolved and move on to bigger and better things.â&#x20AC;? Several supervisors indicated a counter proposal to the one approved by the town the previous week, on an update of the corridor agreement revenue dispersal would likely be forthcoming within a week.

And so goes the dance of municipal dominance between the County of Warren and its largest independent governmental subdivision, the Town of Front Royal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; maybe someone should write a book about it.

They could call it â&#x20AC;&#x153;50 Shades of â&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?

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Opinion

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Another push to defund and cripple public education ‘National School Choice Week’ re-launches its anti-liberal arts agenda ing private or religious-based homeschooling options, that ultimately would help defund and cripple public education in America. So, without further introduction, here is what we found out when we researched “National School Choice Week”:

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Another anti-government/public right-wing scam revealed – ‘National School Choice Week’ - what are we really talking about here?

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Readership: 30,000 and growing Press releases should be emailed to: briefs@warrencountyreport.com Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Daniel P. McDermott editor@warrencountyreport.com General Counsel: Georgia Rossiter, Esquire (540) 535-2001 Roger Bianchini, Senior Writer (540) 635-4835 rogerb@warrencountyreport.com Reporter: Sue Golden Copy Editor: Laura Biondi editor@warrencountyreport.com Feature Writer: Carol Ballard crawford0905@gmail.com

Don’t be deceived by a wolf in sheep’s clothing, or scarf – NSCW means public education no good.

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report This is filed under the heading “Here We Go Again” (with a nod to Ronald Reagan, a conservative-corporate demi-god, whom I might observe despite his pro-corporate economic agenda would be way too liberal on social policies for the modern day Republican Party): As I perused my e-mails on Monday, January 26, I got a notice that an annual anti-public education initiative operating under

the guise of “National School Choice Week” had once again begun. In 2014 right around this time, I got a similar notice, first from the president of NSCW, inviting me to participate in a live call-in press conference, then a second e-mail correcting the call-in number initially sent out. A mistake like that from the president of an organization ostensibly promoting better educational options caught my attention, as did the nature of an initiative that appeared to court the idea of tax credits for parents choos-

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After receiving several messages about a live call-in regarding an event called “National School Choice Week” on Jan. 21, the last message correcting an earlier incorrect call-in phone number listed for the event, I was curious – but my antennae were definitely “up”!!!

So, I drafted a reply to the source, NSCW President Andrew Campanella: Andrew, Excuse my suspicions of this perhaps Orwellian “doublespeak” acronym of NSCW – “national school choice week”, day or month – BUT, do you have any ties to conservative think tanks or funding apparatuses like AFP (Americans For Prosperity), ALEC (American Legislative Exchange Council) & the like?

Because this sounds a lot like one of their initiatives to destroy public school funding under the guise of “expanded choice” or “more educational opportunities”, which are, in fact, thinly disguised efforts to defund public education in America; and divert tax money or encourage corporate tax breaks for upper-class or private-agenda schools that teach that ill-conceived and bogus theories like the world being 6000 years old hold as much validity as geologicallybased scientific theories the earth is millions, if not billions of years old.

So, could you send me some background on your policy initiatives as to how this “choice” is to be achieved; & a list of your funding sources?

Roger Bianchini Editor Emeritus (I didn’t think I

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could explain “To be determined” in a timely fashion) WC&FC Report newspaper PS Andrew, hope you don’t mind my asking, BUT is this phone # problem the result of the sort of educational opportunities available in this expanded universe of choices you are promoting?

Never did get a reply – but I went online to research the organization behind the event to see if my stated suspicions were accurate or not.

About six categories down in my search result was one titled “An Open Letter To National School Choice Week”. Let’s see what a perhaps nonaffiliated site might tell me, I thought as I went there first.

DAMN, I’m getting intuitive at spotting these right-wing, anti-government, anti-public funded anything sites, I thought after reading the “Open Letter to NSCW” from Steve Nelson, head of Manhattan’s private Calhoun School. I contacted Nelson, who authorized us to reprint any portion or all of his “Open Letter” to NSCW that had also linked to my old stomping ground Huffington Post site. I was going to edit it down for space, but heck – it’s so good and I edited so little out, here’s the whole thing: An Open Letter To National School Choice Week

By Steve Nelson, head of Calhoun School in Manhattan In the past two days I received emails from three individuals associated with National School Choice Week (NSCW). Here’s my response: Dear Ms. Peek-Brinson, Ms. Weiers and Mr. Campanella: Please stop sending me your cheery emails. I’m not buying what you’re selling and, frankly, I’m wondering how you can engage in such See EDUCATION,

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“Your support comes from FreedomWorks, a right wing organization that shares Grover Norquist’s hope to shrink government to a size where it might be drowned in the bathtub. Do you wish the same for public education?” – educator Steve Nelson, in Open Letter to NSCW

Opinion EDUCATION, from

the future of our country. Schools should be equitably funded, teachers should be cherished and unions should be appreciated for their historic role in resisting the drift toward plutocracy.

By contrast, “school choice” means further segregating schools by race and class. “School choice” diverts critical resources from under-funded public schools to for-profit education management organizations. Courtesy of your efforts, “school choice” means tax dollars flowing to fundamentalist religious schools through contrived mechanisms, clearly violating the spirit, if not the letter, of the First Amendment.

You demean the profession by claiming that any young college graduate with a few weeks training is a “teacher.” Your funders, if they had their way, would privatize Social Security, abolish Medicare, eviscerate public education and leave all but the privileged to fend for themselves in a mythological meritocracy.

I suppose I sound rather harsh. I

I think that pretty much verifies and nails my suspicions about the anti-public education scam known as NSCW – whose president can’t even transcribe a phone number correctly and whose PR people can’t spell – just sayin’ …

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dan@AreaGuides.com is that racial bias becomes a “shortcut” in the mind of the frontline cops who become conditioned to seeing more danger potential from blacks than whites.

The answer, says Coney, is to acknowledge that this is a real problem for police and then for people of good will to work on solutions. It means that not only will a hostile relationship have to be faced dispassionately and ultimately replaced by respect, but that communities will have to be willing to support the cops who earn this respect.

It also will require weeding out the bullies and genuine bigots who go beyond their authority, particularly when it comes to dealing with African-Americans. Most of all, it will involve establishing a line of communication. As cliche as that is, it’s vital.

Comey says it’s imperative that cops be accessible if they’re going to be trusted. “We must better understand the people we serve and protect — by trying to know, deep in our gut, what it feels like to be a law-abiding young black man walking on the street and encountering law enforcement.”

It’s going to take a change in thinking from police departments who now use heavy-handed tactics and armor to enforce their orders instead of starting with reason. It’s also going to require a different thought process from those who must realize that their personal safety can be guaranteed only if the threats to that safety are to be removed from their neighborhood.

Law enforcement and the law-abiding will need to understand that they’re on the same side. All too often today, they’re not.

What we have had instead is a confrontation where both sides are trying to beat the other down. When that happens, everyone loses. That spiral must be stopped. A good start is to replace the toxic rhetoric with constructive honesty — like what we heard from FBI Director Comey. © 2015 Bob Franken Distributed by King Features Synd.

Creep Meets Girl

Thelma and Louise should be appalled.

Almost 25 years after their epic road movie attacked “conventional patterns of chauvinist male behavior toward females” (in the words of one critic), here arrives “Fifty Shades of Grey,” perhaps the most successful anti-feminist movie ever made.

The runaway best-selling novel is now a juggernaut on the big screen, driven by overwhelmingly female audiences that accounted for its record-breaking opening weekend.

The dirty secret of “Fifty Shades” is that, underneath the kinky exterior, it’s a formulaic romantic fantasy. For all its notorious boundary-pushing, it is the distilled essence of decades’ worth of Harlequin paperbacks, with hyperstereotypical gender roles pushed to the point of perversity (figuratively and, of course, literally). “Fifty Shades” is a version of the age-old boy-meets-girl story, except the boy is a dangerous creep.

As countless millions already know, the story centers around 27-year-old businessman Christian Grey’s seduction of ingenue Anastasia Steele, a college student. He is older and wealthy.

She is young and poor. He is experienced and controlling. She is naive and trusting. He owns a helicopter.

She drives a VW Bug. Eventually we get to the fact — and, obviously, this is what sets “Fifty Shades” apart from other romances — that Christian wants to physically and emotionally dominate her and hit her

for his own pleasure.

No wonder some feminists are inveighing against the film, and this time, the sisters have a point.

As much as it can, “Fifty Shades” seeks to sanitize the S&M. But there’s no sugarcoating what Christian is about. His seduction of Anastasia is emotionally manipulative, his drive to control her is abusive, and his pursuit of her — unexpectedly showing up at places where she is — could easily be considered stalking. If anything like this happened in remotely more realistic circumstances, the proper response to Christian’s obsessive attention would be a good kick in the groin, followed by a restraining order.

Not to mention a referral to a firstclass psychiatrist. The roots of Christian’s desire to hurt women is his own abuse as a child. Anastasia, in her wide-eyed way, wants to save her Byronic romantic hero from his demons, but that would be better left to a professional with years of training and lots of time to work with an emotionally damaged client.

The lesson of “Fifty Shades” should be: Ladies, don’t try this at home. In real life, trying to reform manipulative and abusive men only ends in tears, and becoming subject to sexual humiliation only brings humiliation.

The edge is taken off “Fifty Shades” by its sheer ridiculousness — the movie is punctuated by moments of inadvertent hilarity — and its fairy-tale ending. Anastasia maintains her identity, even though Christian wants to obliterate it. And over the course of its three books, Christian Grey is indeed reformed and tamed, and Anastasia forms a happy family with him. It’s Ward and June Cleaver, via a pleasure room that looks like something out of a Restoration Hardware catalog.

Needless to say, there are easier routes to marital bliss, and they never involve anyone like Christian Grey, who gives the patriarchy a bad name.

Rich Lowry is editor of the National Review. © 2015 by King Features Synd., Inc.

February 23, 2015

Who would have predicted that the head of the FBI could give a speech about cops and racial bias that would be so thoughtful and so balanced that it was embraced by both law-enforcement officials and those who have protested police tactics and have grievances about brutal racial discrimination.

Certainly it was a surprise to most of us who have watched the intense animosity build, particularly since the deaths of blacks at the hands of white cops in Ferguson, Missouri; Staten Island, New York; and Cleveland. The nation has been split into seemingly irreconcilable camps on either side of the “thin blue line,” both sides shouting past each other.

Enter James Comey, director of the FBI, which is itself a federal police force carrying some baggage in its own dealings with minorities. But there he was, speaking at Georgetown University and addressing headon the charge that far too many cops are biased against citizens of color.

Despite bitter denials from many in law enforcement, Comey argued that it was time to face reality: “Police officers on patrol in our nation’s cities often work in environments where a hugely disproportionate percentage of street crime is committed by young men of color. Something happens to people of good will working in that environment.”

That something, he went on to say,

adults to advance your destructive political agenda.

There are many places you might consider putting your lapel stickers, but my suit jacket is not among them.

King Features Weekly Service

Time to Face Reality

don’t mean to personally attack you.

But your message and your organization are fundamentally dishonest.

You don’t want to “celebrate” my school. You want to co-opt us for your lobbying effort. You want to have us identify with your “brand” so as to create the appearance of very broad public support for your very narrow and self-serving agenda.

You want this so that even more misguided, misinformed legislatures and politicians will pound nails into the coffin of public education.

It’s a free country (at least for the time being.) Your activities are probably legal. But be honest about it.

I find it deeply offensive that you would obfuscate your true intentions and exploit children and unaware

February 23, 2015

a scheme without some sense of shame. I’m publishing this response because I hope other school administrators, teachers and families won’t fall for this devious marketing ploy.

You offered me a complimentary box of supplies to use to “celebrate” National School Choice Week: “Signature yellow scarves, rally signs, event promotion posters, lapel stickers and more -- at no cost...” I don’t even have to pay shipping and handling, you promise.

Whoopee!

I suppose you expect me to drape the scarves around my students’ shoulders, plant rally signs in my school’s flower beds, place posters throughout the neighborhood and proudly wear a lapel sticker on my jacket.

You say you hope “schools that participate find the Week to be an enjoyable, rewarding and celebratory time.”

Is that really what you hope?

Or do you hope that your work, funded by the most conservative, anti-union, anti-progressive and anti-teacher forces in America, will accelerate the demise of public education in America? I’m proud to acknowledge the generosity that supports my progressive school. Are you not proud of your support? Why does your website not have any information about who you really are and who funds the emails, scarves, signs, posters and stickers?

My research shows that your support comes from places like the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). ALEC is funded by the Koch brothers, Big Pharma and some of the most rapacious corporations in America. A great deal of your support, according to Media Matters for America, comes from the Gleason Family Foundation, which also paid the discredited lobbyist Dick Morris to shill for them. Your support comes from FreedomWorks, a right wing organization that shares Grover Norquist’s hope to shrink government to a size where it might be drowned in the bathtub. Do you wish the same for public education?

Perhaps you felt I would be eager to join the celebration because my school is a private school. Surely I would be supportive of encouraging school choice through vouchers or increased numbers of charter schools. Surely not.

I, like many of my private school colleagues, am deeply ambivalent about my own work. Ambivalent, but not embarrassed. My school is among many privileged schools that declare an unambiguous public purpose. We partner with public schools, argue for school funding and stand with many others who imbue a deep sense of social justice in our students. We know that public education is essential to

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Community

Kelble hands off Riverkeeper duties as of March 2

The Shenandoah River from Culler’s Overlook – Photo Derek Zurfluh

Millville Rock Garden

Jeff Kelble readies to pass the torch on protection of the Shenandoah and Potomac watersheds

By Malcolm Barr Sr. Warren County Report Jeff Kelble’s passion for the rivers of North America, indeed, of the world, began when he fished with his dad as a 6-year-old.

That was 37 years ago in the Finger Lakes, NY, where the Clarke County resident remembers peeking over

the edge of an aluminum row boat.

To the child, it was magic to see 10 feet down to the vegetated bottom where the sunfish were looking at the worm hanging on his hook. That day turned Jeff Kelble on to the rivers of North America. He caught a fish, by the way, which really “hooked” him on our waterways (pun intended).

Jeff, now 43, who lives with his

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family in Boyce, spent a couple of hours with me at the Daily Grind in Front Royal on Feb. 5 talking about the health of the Shenandoah – not so good last year, at least for the fish – when he surprised me by announcing the name of a new Riverkeeper who will take over his job on March 2.

Jeff has recently worn two hats, that of President of Potomac Riverkeeper, Inc., a non-profit organization supported in part by two foundations (60% of funding) and public donations, and the other as the Shenandoah Riverkeeper, a position he has held since 2006. Next month, that will change: Dean Nanjoks, who

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lives in the Washington metropolitan area, takes the Potomac title, and Mark Frondorf will move to the Valley from Arlington, Virginia, for the Shenandoah River responsibilities. Both newcomers have been long connected with the two rivers, most recently as fishing guides.

Meanwhile, Jeff, his wife Erika, and the couple’s two daughters ages 6 and 9, will continue to live in Boyce.

Jeff will effectively move sideways to concentrate more on carrying forward recommendations made by the new Riverkeepers.

“I plan to keep all my toes in the river. In fact, I am relying on our friends and supporters to give me reasons to take them on the river,” he said. In other words, he’s back to his first love, being a guide,” Jeff says.

There are 212 official Riverkeepers in the world, 140 of those in the U.S. Their individual and collective mission is to help maintain the health of the specific waterways and watersheds they are assigned to. Duties include identifying chronic fish and river health problems and their

Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page

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So, job well done, Jeff! You have left a legacy for your successors to work from. Now, let’s all go fishin’ – and don’t forget to thank your local Riverkeeper when you can eat what you catch. causes. Causes run the gamut, from riverside construction; algae overgrowth; to pollution and its myriad sources, including agricultural runoffs from fertilizer nitrates, animal and human waste, the latter originating largely from municipal wastewater systems.

Fish kills appear to be cyclical here, Kelble said. Last year saw a 90-percent loss in the Shenandoah, the worst since 2005, he said. No matter how bad, however, fish populations inevitably rebuild, which is good news for the thousands who fish the nation’s rivers each year.

In the U.S., the umbrella corporation overlooking the Riverkeepers is The Waterkeepers’ Alliance, with headquarters in New York.

Reading from its statement of organization and duties, keeping an eye on the Shenandoah River is a difficult task, 365 days a year. However, it’s made easier by the scores of volunteer patrols who assist the Riverkeeper, and literally thousands who donate to the upkeep of both the Potomac and Shenandoah by buying memberships ($35 regular, $50 family) in Potomac/Shenandoah Riverkeeper Inc. (checks payable to Potomac Riverkeeper, 1717 Mas-

BS

An October sunrise on the South Fork of the Shenandoah – Photo Jeff Kelble sachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 100, Washington, D.C. 20036).

Frondorf ’s mission as Shenandoah Riverkeeper will duplicate that of his predecessor – “stopping pollution to promote safe drinking water, protect healthy river habitats, and enhance public use and enjoyment of the Shenandoah River and its tributar-

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The activities of the Shenandoah Riverkeeper affect what the Chesapeake Bay Foundation is trying to do for what is described as “the greatest estuary in the world.”

The day following my chat with Jeff, I received a “special invitation” (mass mailing) to become a member of the Bay group (I’m sure most of Front Royal did, also!). “To put it bluntly,”

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Buffalo Falls – Photo Rick Larkin wrote William C. Baker, president, “the Bay is in trouble. Entire species of fish are no longer commercially or recreationally viable. And others are just hanging on ... the waters are choking on the combined assaults of toxic chemicals, sediment, and nitrogen and phosphorous pollution - by-products of human and animal waste - fertilizers, auto emissions and more.”

In other words, what the Riverkeepers do for the Shenandoah and

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Potomac watersheds is vital to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s ultimate success in trying to save one of the nation’s greatest fishing grounds, including the bay’s famous blue crab population. So, while you’re grousing about the cost of upgrades to local municipal wastewater systems, consider the alternative the next time you sit down to a seafood dinner – the death of one of the nation’s greatest sources of domestic seafood.

In fact, scanning a “River Watch” newsletter of 2006, one of Jeff ’s first jobs was to sue (with the help of pro bono attorneys) a Virginia waste water treatment facility for “egregious violations of federal and commonwealth laws on waste disposal.”

Way back then, Jeff was voicing his concern about the Chesapeake Bay’s troubles. A note in another “River Watch” issue published a year or so ago, points to a major success Jeff had locally - the Riverton Landing in Front Royal was the first major project completed as part of the “Shenandoah Riverkeeper’s River Access Improvement” project. After a dangerous old dam was removed, volunteers helped install a new boat ramp, new parking lot, trash receptacles, landscaping and signage - a total makeover, stated the newsletter article.

So, job well done, Jeff! You have left a legacy for your successors to work from.

Now, let’s all go fishin’ – and don’t forget to thank your local Riverkeeper when you can eat what you catch.

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Community

Local ‘Morality Police’ at it again – this time at the movies Royal Cinemas ‘50 Shades of Grey’ controversy: morality or bullying?

’50 Shades’ opening night in Front Royal – but something for everyone

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report The afternoon of Tuesday, February 10, Royal Cinemas owner Rick Novak posted a response on the theater’s Facebook page to a petition and threatened boycott of his Front Royal movie house over the planned showing of “50 Shades of Grey” beginning two days later. This is that Facebook post: Dear Facebook Friends and Loyal Customers, over the last week a petition has been started to demand that Royal Cinemas not show the new release “Fifty Shades of Grey”. This highly anticipated movie is based on the very popular (100 million copies sold) book series.

We appreciate and thank you for

your comments both pro and con regarding its presence here and especially for your support of our theater. I know that these comments are rooted in your concern for our theater and town! We LOVE Our Little Town Too!! While I/we have communicated and discussed this with many of you privately, I feel it is time for a public post.

We agree with those that say this movie should not be viewed by young people. We have always enforced the rating system at our theater. There is a sign posted on our front door that has been there for 15 years. We also exhibit a public service announcement called “Check the Box” prior to each movie to help explain the rating system, and that all movies are not for all ages and interests. Since the movie carries an R rating I feel cer-

tain it is not pornographic, but acknowledge that it may not meet with everyone’s tastes.

Please visit http://www.filmratings.com/ for details on how they rate films. Here is their description for the rating for “Fifty Shades of Grey” REASON: Rated R for strong sexual content including dialogue, some unusual behavior and graphic nudity, and for language.

We do our best to represent all the varied interests in popular movies.

So, yes we are playing “Fifty Shades of Grey” like every theater in the country will be this weekend. For those of you who are threatening to go to other theaters instead of your hometown theater in the future I hope you will consider that those theaters are also playing the very same movie

perhaps even on multiple screens. So I ask you to reconsider.

This is a First Amendments Rights issue. It’s a very slippery slope you ask us to travel down. Perhaps the next movie that you want to see offends another opposing group and is being petitioned as well. Where would it end?

For those of you that will be coming to our theater this weekend we look forward to seeing you at “Fifty Shades of Grey” or last week’s # 1 family movie “SpongeBob” or the smash hit “American Sniper”. For those of you who are skipping this movie we hope to see you at the theater again soon for a movie that better suits your tastes.

Again thank you for your past and continued support.

Rick Novak Royal Cinemas Sounds familiar With this newspaper having been the target of an earlier boycott effort aimed at our advertisers, which I proudly note includes Royal Cinemas, we were both curious and sympathetic to Novak’s plight described in the Facebook post. But not being one to jump to conclusions about the source of a threat aimed at a local business that sounded somewhat reminiscent of last summer’s anonymous and self-appointed “Local Catholics of Front Royal” boycott against this newspaper‘s advertisers over freedom of the press issues, we contacted Novak to see what he knew about the source of the petition and

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Community

Anti-50 Shades petition organizer Regina Doman’s husband Andrew Schmiedicke leads a prayer vigil in support of keeping Front Royal Town Code 110-17’s prohibition on fortune telling outside the WCGC on Aug. 25, 2014.

An anti-’50 Shades of Grey’ promo on the petition website change.org its threatened boycott of his theater.

And alas, no anonymity here!

Novak replied that a signed letter announcing the effort to stop the “50 Shades” showing in Front Royal and an accompanying petition with 364 signatures and accompanying comments had been sent to the theater.

The petition organizer identified herself as Regina Doman, wife of Andrew Schmiedicke (Ms. Doman later explained to us she was using her professional nom d’ plume, see related Q&A).

Her husband Andrew was a highly-visible supporter of Front Royal’s now-repealed and ancient ban on “Magic Arts”. On August 25, 2014, outside the Warren County Government Center prior to the second vote that repealed the town’s “magic” code, Andrew toted a large crucifix at the head of prayer circle in support of maintaining Front Royal’s ban on “magic arts” and “gypsies” and identified himself to national media outlets as a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Front Royal.

And while Doman made a point of telling Novak this effort to stop his showing of “50 Shades of Grey” was NOT a boycott, we think she was playing semantics, possibly due to the amount of negative push-back that ill-fated summer boycott of local businesses got, including from St. John’s Catholic Church head parish priest and Naughty Girl donut fan, Father Fasano.

For while Doman said the effort she was spearheading to stop “50 Shades of Grey” from being shown in Front Royal was not a boycott, the petition forwarded to theater-owner Novak included repeated threats by petitioners to attend their next three movies, sometimes more, elsewhere

if “50 Shades” was shown at Royal Cinemas. Let’s do a little calculating: 364 people x 3 shows x an $8 movie ticket = a potential loss of $8,736 in revenue for Royal Cinemas; and more if you calculate the threat to spread the boycott beyond three movies and to all the petitioners’ friends, family members and acquaintances.

Disclaimers or not, that sounds to us like a boycott threat by this community’s emerging faith-based “Morality Police” who seem to be establishing an expanding footprint along Front Royal’s historic East Main Street downtown business district.

Many of the comments in support of Doman’s petition cited faith, the presence of Christendom College and its Catholic student population here, as well as allegations showing the film indicated support of both pornography and the sexual abuse of women (see Novak’s response to such allegations in accompanying Q&A).

Now while this reporter has not read one line of any of the three “50 Shades” books, my understanding from some who have, including our “50 Shades” beat reporter Malcolm Barr* and one woman who had both read the book and just seen the movie its opening weekend at Royal Cinema, is that the “50 Shades of Grey” trilogy is about a consensual dominance-submissive sexual relationship in which it eventually becomes clouded as to which role player, the aggressive male corporate head, perhaps ironically named Christian, or the submissive female reporter Anastasia, really ends up as the relationship’s dominant figure.

But the comments attached to Regina Doman’s petition cited no such nuances or plot twists, only allegations of soul-numbing pornography,

Divine distaste and economic retribution for showing a film petitioners alleged to be a banner advertisement for sinful behavior and predatory, abusive sexual relationships (I wonder if former Human Life International President Father Thomas Euteneuer has seen “50 Shades” yet?)

But we’ll let our readers decide for themselves exactly what the nature of the petition and its petitioners is: From: Regina Doman Sent: Monday, February 09, 2015 11:21 PM To: Royal Cinemas Subject: Please don’t show 50 Shades of Gray Dear Mr. Novak, My husband Andrew Schmiedicke and I have been long-time patrons of your movie theater, and we were very sad to hear that Royal Cinemas is planning on showing 50 Shades of Gray this week. We knew about this movie because we are familiar with the book, which is distressing in that it portrays an abusive pornographic relationship as fulfilling and romantic. I spoke with the manager at your theater the first time I saw the poster when we were watching the 3rd Hobbit movie, and I sent a message to you, all through your website, but never got a response. When I discussed the movie with friends and fellow theater patrons, I found many of them agreed with me, so we put together a petition that I am sending to you now. We hoped to get 100 signatures from other patrons: we collected over 300. Furthermore, many people wanted to assure you that this is not an attempt to boycott your theater or hurt you business, so a second

petition was started to offer to help to compensate you for the loss of pre-sold tickets if you do decide to cancel the showing of the film.

We really appreciate how you strive to keep a family-friendly atmosphere at Royal Cinemas, and we are certain that this film just slipped under your radar. Despite the intense curiosity of area teens to see it (our son at Skyline tells us it is a topic of conversation), we feel that it’s just not in the best interests of the youth in our area to have it playing. If the film is cancelled, I’m sure some will go and see it elsewhere, but they’ll remember that it was not approved by their community.

Attached is are the 364 signatures,

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and the official petition. Thank you for the work you do, and thank you for your attention to this matter.

Peace and good Regina Doman The corresponding petition and attached comments appeared to come through a petition-organizing website called change.org: Recipient: Rick Novak Greetings, Please don’t show the movie 50 Shades of Gray. 50 Shades of Gray is a film that tells women and teenSee MOVIE, 12

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Page 12 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Late February, 2015

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Community MOVIE, from 11 age girls itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sexually acceptable to allow men to tie them, beat them, and abuse them. This is a horrible message we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to see promoted in our hometown movie theater, Royal Cinemas. 50 Shades glamorizes porn, which harms women, ruins marriages, and destroys lives. It poisons normal sexual relationships.

Porn constitutes an addiction that is ruining the lives of millions of men.

For young men, it can lead to sexual dysfunction, isolation, and profound unhappiness.

We want to support local businesses and we care about the choices they make. Rather than call for a boycott, we will attempt to provide financial incentive for Royal Cinemas to pull the film: if Royal Cinemas shows 50 Shades, the undersigned will see our next three movies at another theater instead of at Royal Cinemas, and encourage our friends and family to do the same. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to hurt the owner or employees of Royal Cinemas, but mainstreaming porn in a romantic movie marketed on Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day is a new low that our local community just doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to support. Making porn look glamorous and romantic isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t gray.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dark. And ugly.

Petition Comments Included among the comments tied to this petition, posted between February 5th and 9th were: Rebecca OHerron, Rixeyville, VA: I will never support a business that chooses to present this as entertainment in a town already bogged down with sexual crime.

Kevin McMahon, Front Royal, VA: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want porn in our local theater!

I have read that 25% percent of this movie is sex scenes.

Jim Clark, Front Royal, United States: This movie is disgusting, and should not be shown anywhere, but please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t show it in our town.

Andrew Schmiedicke, Strasburg, VA: Sex is sacred.

Caleb Schmiedicke, Strasburg, VA: I believe that sex is a beautiful gift from God and using it as a commodity or for selfish pleasure is horrible.

What I really hate to see is women being degraded to nothing more than mere objects or even toys. We should not allow such an insulting movie to be displayed in our local theater.

Catherine Ammons, Front Royal, United States: I believe you shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have sex until you get married, and this movie is poisoning teens minds to tell them its OK even though its not.

David Norris, Front Royal, VA: I am signing because I am a God loving American Julie Monette, Silver Spring, MD: I visit Front Royal regularly. I was a patron of Royal Cinemas and always

ments) Eric Anderson, Front Royal, VA: This filth has no place on Main Street. Disgusted with the trailer they showed before American Sniper.

Murder vs. Sex

Quite the website presence: Regina Doman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; author, conference speaker and more. happy about the great relationship they had with Christendom when I was a student. Nobody should choose to show 50 Shades of Gray. A new low. I will be sure to watch movies elsewhere the next three times Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m in town and thinking of catching a show.

Elizabeth Nunez, Brentwood, TN: This is a college town and this filth should not be played there.

Timothy Johnston, Ellington, CT: As a former Christendom College student, me and my buddies would often utilize Royal Cinemas as the closest theater. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe you would put something so morally depraved as 50 Shades of Gray within easy reach of a Catholic College, when so many of their students are great supporters of your theater.

Please do not show this movie! Thank you!

Catherine Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell, Stephens City, VA: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m signing this because I think it supports abuse against women. My son goes to school in Front Royal and often meets his friends at Royal Cinemas for movies. If this movie is shown, I will make sure he and his friends find alternative venues to watch a movie â&#x20AC;Ś Thank you so much for your kind consideration of this important issue.

Marissa Feiring, Front Royal, VA: I believe, as a catholic feminist, that this film is horribly demeaning and dehumanizing to women everywhere by encouraging brutal abuse and promoting the rampant rape culture in the name of â&#x20AC;&#x153;loveâ&#x20AC;?.

Anthony Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Andrea, Front Royal, VA: The abuse of woman must stop.

A cinema that shows this movie supports the abuse of woman by men.

Ashley Clark, Linden, VA: I am so disappointed and disgusted that my local theater is showing this horrible porn movie! I will make sure that if this movie is not removed from the viewing schedule that I will never go to Royal Cinemas again, nor will anyone in my family and I will also encourage my friends to do the same.

I pray you have the courage to not

show this movie!

Elizabeth Poel, Front Royal, VA: I agree with Reginaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statement. This movie is unfit for anyone to see, unless oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind is perverted. I have read several reviews, and I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go near it, much less PAY to see it. If it shows here, I will see many more than three movies elsewhere.

Mark Pilon, Front Royal, VA: I am aghast that this theater would run such a piece of notorious erotica. I will never enter that theater in the future if this film is shown, and I encourage others to do the same Kevin Williams, Middletown, VA: Our family was planning on seeing an upcoming kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movie at Royal Cinemas. If they decide to run 50 Shades of Gray, we will definitely be taking our business elsewhere.

Rebecca Peterson, Linden, VA: Porn kills love.

Pat Moore, Front Royal, VA: It is a horrible movie and degrading to women! God help us!

John Gwyer, Bentonville, VA; John J. Gwyer, Rebecca Norris Front Royal, VA: Porn causes so much pain in the mental abuse it inflicts on the watcher, and no doubt to their families. Encouraging the lie that lust and love is the same only furthers the cause that abuse is acceptable. In the name of Christ, His Blessed Mother, and St Joseph.

Kristin Uhlenkott, Front Royal, VA: Dear local theater of our small beloved town - Please help us to preserve our daughters and help them see themselves as captivating and beautiful women for their virtue and their whole person and not something so degrading where they are hurt deeply and used.

Susan Schmitt, Front Royal, VA: We need to protect our children in every way possible. A movie like this can destroy them. We need to support wholesome movies, movies that show good values.

Marius Mello, Front Royal, VA: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a Catholic and this is nonsense (writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: I think this post may be critical of the petition and com-

This Anderson post expressing disgust at seeing the â&#x20AC;&#x153;50 Shadesâ&#x20AC;? promotional short prior to viewing the movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;American Sniperâ&#x20AC;? reminded us of one of the Royal Cinema Facebook page responses to Novakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s explanation of why he will show â&#x20AC;&#x153;50 Shades of Greyâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;How come no one cares when they show violent movies? Does God want you to see that?â&#x20AC;? Jessica Taman asked.

Or as an acquaintance of mine quipped along those same lines, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask them what kind of rifle Jesus would have used.â&#x20AC;?

Free country?

Those responding on the cinema Facebook page to Novakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public re-

sponse to the request he withdraw the movie, reacted to the basic issue of freedom of choice in a civil society versus faith-based moral advocacy.

Some referenced the 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Magic Codeâ&#x20AC;? debate in Front Royal and consequent threatened boycott of this paperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advertisers after the ban on magic arts and gypsies was repealed by the Front Royal Town Council.

Todd Huffman: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Front Royal has clearly become the target of the religious right. It has put us in the spotlight recently â&#x20AC;&#x201C; nationally and embarrassingly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; over the tarot card thing. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see much difference between religion and tarot cards, both are based on folklore and fairy tales.

My point is this: free speech should always prevail and if you do not like something, then do not participate or patronize it.â&#x20AC;?

Tammy Foster Bolden: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a movie based on a best-selling book â&#x20AC;&#x201C; of course you should show it! Let the paying customers see the movie. No one is forced to watch it. Front Royal is still part of a free country, contrary

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To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 to what some may believe. Frankly, I am getting quite sick of this band of holier-than-thou people trying to dictate what we do, see, wear, eat and think here.”

Debbie Tobin Schurtz: “If you

don’t show it, the people who want to see it will just go to another theater, therefore taking business to another town.”

Tom Conkey, a retired Front Royal Town Councilman and fellow Front

Royal small businessman, commended Novak for his stance: “Well said, Rick. Small-minded people in this community cannot be allowed to impose their will on the rest of us. One group doesn’t like the name of a par-

Community ticular donut shop and tries to put it out of business; then another group decides that businesses who advertise the Warren Report don’t meet their standards and should be put out of business. Where will this end? – And all this is supposedly in the name of religion. I seem to remember reading about a man who once said, ‘Let he who is free from sin throw the first stone.’ Who will throw that stone?”

Considering as Conkey, Huffman and Bolden all referenced above, first stones have been cast in the past year toward other people’s behavior in Front Royal – I would contend by some worshiping a more aggressive and pathological Constantine form of Catholicism, rather than one based on the words, life and example of Christ – we’ll conclude with Tammy Bolden’s second post on the Royal Cinema Facebook page: “I think I may pick up a copy of Warren County Report, get a Naughty Girls donut, and stop by for a palm reading on the way to the darn movie theater” to which Kimberly Stanley replied, “I’ll bring napkins and can we have a shot of tequila at the Lucky Star [too]?” * Footnote: In Malcolm’s “Late July 2012” exploration of the “Fifty Shades” phenomena on these pages, he observed that Washington Post columnist Sally Quinn (wife of former Post editor Ben Bradlee of Watergate fame) had posited that the “50 Shades of Grey” phenomena was, at its root about religion. I quote from Mr. Barr’s article:

540-551-8312

“In a June 16 column, veteran Post columnist Sally Quinn wrote: ‘The mystics say you can find God anywhere. I believe many (mostly women over 30) have found Him in Fifty Shades of Grey’ … Quinn suggests, uniquely, that the ‘Fifty Shades’ phenomena is about religion. ‘Not religion in the conventional sense of the word, but in how we are redefining faith practices today as more and more people, especially women, shun man-made traditions and yet continue to yearn for religious experiences.’

“Hmmm,” Malcolm concluded.

Hmmm, indeed!

Perhaps it is this aspect of seeking transcendent experiences outside the constraints of traditional religion that is really at the bottom of this faithbased hostility towards “50 Shades of Grey” – particularly from members of a faith that is historically and to this day so male dominant. I mean, like I ask Catholic author and petition-boycott leader Regina Doman in our Q&A elsewhere in this edition: “Don’t you think that perhaps dictating that ALL sex should be aimed at marital procreation could be viewed as the ultimate male-dominant sexual relationship, in that it proscribes that all sexual pleasure & activity must be aimed at a 9-month pregnancy for the woman?”

Hmmm …

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Community

Novak responds to questions about his ‘50 Shades’ decision

Rick Novak discusses boycott threat and his decision to show an R-rated movie.

Royal Cinemas is one door down from The Brooklyn Marketplace (window lights to right of movie theater), which was targeted by a faith-based group in March 2014 to remove a tarot card reader from its premises. Two doors further down in the brick building bearing no identifying business sign, is the mysterious Population Research Institute, whose founding premise is that world overpopulation is a hoax.

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report We asked Royal Cinemas owner Rick Novak, a former member of the Front Royal-Warren County Economic Development Board of Directors about the petition, some of the allegations in it and: Question – Ms. Doman says it’s not a boycott, then they go on to say “our next 3 movies” will be out of town.

Do you think they are playing semantics because of all the negative publicity they got over the WCR/Naughty Girl’s boycott situation?? You were also a recipient of those boycott

threats, are you getting a deja vu all over again feeling?

Rick Novak – This does seem to be

very similar to the prior instances you mentioned. Rather than a boycott, if they want to effect a change they need to support movies that do align with their values. Hollywood did a very good job in 2014 of releasing Christian and religious themed pictures. Many of them suffered at the box office. We played seven of them. Some were successful, some were not, both locally and nationally. Hollywood will make these pictures only if there is an audience that supports them.

Q – You’ve been a member of the EDA board, can you comment on the negative impact of a self-imposed “morality police” constantly threatening to boycott local businesses over things they socially, artistically or politically disagree with? Like you said in your reply, if you go out of town it is likely those theaters also showed “50 Shades”, perhaps on multiple screens at the same time. So, what is the logic of such a threatened boycott, other than try to bully local businesses into adopting this group’s notion of community standards for

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RN – I think the mini boycott or the alternative gift card boycott were perhaps an olive branch in the shape of an “Adrian Peterson Switch”. I am sure they mean well but it is very difficult to run a business in any small town, especially one that relies on the local population. Many small businesses operate paycheck to paycheck just as many households do. I suggest that locals should make an extra effort to support local businesses, whether it is a movie theater, coffee shop, restaurants etc. It is very tough to scratch out a living in a small town. Many of us work multiple jobs because our businesses can’t support us. Don’t feel sorry for us – but don’t drive by us to purchase the same thing 30 minutes away. And of course, the negative publicity will also discourage other businesses from considering Front Royal for a location as well.

Q – While it is not clear if any of these petition critics have read the book or seen the movie, there seems to be a lot of “expert” critique of the negative aspects of the book and movie, as in encouraging abuse of women – is that your understanding of the plot?

RN – While I am no expert in human behavior, and have not read the books, I can’t make that link based on anecdotal information. I have met and know many, many, many women that read the books on their family

vacations, around the pool, or on airplanes while on business trips. Outwardly, they all seem to be in loving healthy relationships that appear no different than the folks that are boycotting our theater. It is these women that are going to see this movie, not their men. If ALL the 100 million readers of the books are in abusive relationships we do have a real problem. The same folks that are organiz-

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To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 ing the boycott seem to be OK with graphic violence; some of them are fans of “Resident Evil” and Tarantino movies like “Kill Bill” etc. I am not sure how they reconcile this in their own minds?? So I don’t think they are consistent.

Q – Do you think you are supporting abuse of women by showing this movie?

RN – (underlined for emphasis in his e-mail reply) – No absolutely not! If I thought so I would not have played it. We brought the movie to our theater because there was a lot of demand for it by the women that read the book!

Numbers: box office As a follow up, we asked No-

vak how the first weekend, actually Thursday, February 12 to Sunday, February 15 went for the “50 Shades of Grey” showing.

“As far as attendance it met my expectations. February is typically a slow period at the movies. It will be one of the best performing movies we have played in February in my 20 years in the business. I would place it in the top five for our theater,” he replied, noting, “It broke several national records as well.

“As an aside many of the opponents wanted me to bring in a movie that had been counterprogrammed as an alternative to ‘50 Shades’ called ‘Old Fashioned Movie’ – it finished 16th for the weekend. ‘50 Shades’ grossed $93 million nationally and had a per screen average of $25,510 versus ‘Old Fashioned Movie’ which grossed $1

million, with a per screen average of $4,836.

“You can’t just put anything onscreen and expect people will attend,” Novak says of the realities of the theater business. “We can only pay our staff, mortgage, electric, etcetera, if people attend movies at our theater.

If you want to have a theater on Main Street the people of the community need to support it.”

And those choosing to support Royal Cinemas by attending “50 Shades of Grey” one opening weekend night met some trying to deter that support.

“Saturday night at the 6 p.m. show we had five or six 18 to 23 year old male and females greeting the theater goers. They wished them Happy Valentine’s Day and would hand them the attached flyer,” Novak said

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Community in an e-mail. The flier he sent us showed what appeared to be a promo still from the movie with the main male character peering out a massive high-rise window over a sprawling, urban landscape below. Included in the copy on the flier was the statement “Fifty Shades of Grey’ is abuse.

Abuse is NOT romantic” with the contact number of a domestic abuse hotline.

“I reciprocated by going out to greet them, hand them each a copy of our Facebook post defending the showing and also wishing them a ‘Happy Valentine’s Day’ as well. They gathered to read it together and discuss it. I’m not sure if it was the cold and the snow or my statement but we did not see them anymore over the weekend,” Novak says.

Numbers: online

By February 18, Novak said the Royal Cinema Facebook page was approaching 200 Comments on his explanation of his decision, over 470 “Likes” and a combined commentlikes-share total of over 1200. And by some mysterious Internet calculation neither of us – well, at least me – understands, he added that the Facebook site calculated a total “reach” of 12,848 people on his post on the “50 Shades” petition-boycott and his decision to show the film despite it.

Numbers: community In a final comment about the

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threatened boycott, Novak put on his old Front Royal-Warren County Economic Development Authority Board “hat” and observed, “Everybody who lives here wants better schools, better roads and services. The only way to fund these is to shop locally. If you go somewhere else you fund that community’s infrastructure.”

And Novak is right – maintaining a strong commercial tax base is one way municipalities reduce the tax burden on citizens for funding municipal operations, services and infrastructure. (Why do you think the Town of Front Royal and the County of Warren have been locked in a five-year struggle over how to most equitably distribute the commercial tax revenue generated in the Route 522/340 North Commercial Corridor – see our companion story on dominance-submission (?) of the municipal variety elsewhere in this edition regarding the town’s pending decision on creating its own building inspections department)

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Community

Petition-boycott organizer answers questions on effort Regina Doman is author of Catholic-themed books for young prople

Regina Doman promo photo from her official website

Image from website promoting books by Regina Doman

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report

secure in their parenting skills that they believe their children will be seduced into abusive sexual relationships by a book or movie they can’t even legally go to without a parent or being of a certain age? OR that their own adult moral center is so weak that their own future sexual behavior could be jeopardized by viewing it?

The following question wasn’t even acknowledged as being asked, as Ms. Doman deleted it from her response: Q – Don’t you think that perhaps dictating that ALL sex should be aimed at marital procreation could be viewed as the ultimate male-dominant sexual relationship, in that it proscribes that all sexual pleasure &

In response to her leadership role in the attempt to have Royal Cinemas withdraw “50 Shades of Grey” from its schedule, we e-mailed Regina Schmedicke the following questions about her petition and effort to pressure Royal Cinemas into not showing “50 Shades of Grey”. Asking that we use her professional nom d’ plume, Regina Doman, she responded with the qualification, “I’m answering the relevant questions below.”

Question – Have you read any of the “50 Shades” books or know anything first-hand about the content of the movie? (Note: I have not read any of them and have no interest at all in seeing the movie; however, I do not believe my attitude should prevent anyone else from reading a book or viewing a movie they can legally see.)

Regina Doman – I’m an author. I specialize in young adult fiction, and so I keep abreast of the trends, what young people are reading, watching, and talking about. I’ve known about “50 Shades” since it was a self-published book.

Q – You say your effort is NOT a boycott, as was threatened against the movie theater and all our advertisers late last summer in the wake of our coverage of the “Magic-Gypsy” Code debate; however, the petition includes a threat by signers to go to their next 3 (or more) movies elsewhere – isn’t that, in fact, a boycott …? AND as Mr. Novak points out in his Facebook response to your effort, what is the point of going to another theater out of town that also showed the movie – other than simply a punitive one against the owner for not

bowing to your will and pressure??

RD – I care about Front Royal, local businesses in Front Royal, and Royal Cinemas. Lots of other people care about them too. That’s why the petition was directed to Royal Cinemas.

My husband used to have a business on Main Street in the Weaver Building. So I have a lot of respect for Mr. Novak and the troubles he faces running an independent business on Main Street, and running a movie theater: I doubt I’d be able to handle doing what he does.

We who signed the petition think he made a bad call here in letting this movie run. He had a choice, and we wanted to make sure he knew what he was choosing.

Q – Were you involved in the earlier anonymous boycott effort aimed at our advertisers, including Royal Cinemas, signed “Local Catholics of Front Royal”?

RD – Don’t know anything about it.

Q – Do you believe the freedom of religion guaranteed in the US Constitution protects citizens from having their personal behavior, including reading or viewing habits, dictated by the standards of any single religion or segment of a religion?

Q – Do you believe American society and government is based on civil law, as detailed in the US Constitution?

Q – Civil law prohibits the physical or sexual abuse of people against their will, isn’t that enough of a legal protection against such abuse?

Q – Do you really believe an artistic portrayal of such things, including as I understand in the case of these books and movie, voluntary participation in a dominance-submissive sexual relationship, will make people desire or seek to participate in such behavior? Are your petitioners so in-

activity must be aimed at a 9-month pregnancy for the woman (a Catholic woman once told me that if men had babies, abortion would be a sacrament)?

RD – I think teens see double standards: they hear us say, “Don’t be caught into an abusive relationship: don’t let any man hit you or beat you” – but then they see adults in their hometown lining up to see a movie where a young woman is tied up and beaten – and (forgive me) adult men reminding everyone that this is a Constitutional right adults have. Solzhenitsyn warned: “Believe what you see, not what you hear.”

What do our teens hear us say?

What do they see us do?

I just felt something had to be said.

I said it to the manager at Royal Cinemas. I said it in an email to Royal Cinemas. I said it on Facebook. And other people said, “Say it with a petition, and we’ll say it with you.” And so we did.

And now we’re backing this up with our actions. Speaking of actions, we realized that not showing “50 Shades” would represent a financial loss for Mr. Novak. So, some of my friends put together a second petition pledging to see more movies at Royal Cinemas by buying gift certificates for three adult tickets. I signed the invitation and sent it to all those who signed my petition – and a lot of them went and signed that second petition as well.

Q – Now that as of Feb. 12, Royal Cinemas is showing “50 Shades of Grey” will you follow through on the 3-movie boycott effort? & are there any anti-showing demonstrations planned??

RD – Yes to the first question; No to the second.

Follow up conversation Ms. Doman closed, thanking us for the opportunity to be heard on the issue.

However, it was not clear to me from her first reply whether Ms.

One man’s opinion: ‘Grey’ is gray; hot it’s not!

So much for contributing to the decline of Western civilization

By Malcolm Barr, Sr. WC/FC Report

“Fifty Shades of Grey” the movie is better than the book, but the erotica is cut to a mere 20 minutes of the two-hour film. That doesn’t by itself make it better; it’s just that I thought the book poorly written and over-long.

Apart from gaining a degree of notoriety among my colleagues for my July 2012 review in the “Report” of the “mommy porn”, three volume, print version of “Fifty Shades” by fellow Brit E.L. James (that’s why “grey” in the title is not “gray”, if you get what I mean), little qualifies me for this week’s current assignment of reviewing this blockbuster movie.

So I called my neighbor. She’d read the book but not seen the movie; her sister had done both and thought the book the better of the two. A stand-off between me and her.

Then I canvassed our local eatingout spot (Houlihan’s) with the help of our favorite wait person, Tanya.

No help there. None had seen the movie, and few had read the book.

– Not an unexpected result of the informal poll since most folks at the watering hole were middle aged, plus a couple of seniors - my wife and me! This is still a young person’s entertainment; mostly young women were at the matinee we attended.

In my previous article, I quoted the views of a 22-year-old Virginia Tech student who summed up the book in these words: “There’s a difference between a good read (which she thought it was) and a good book.

This was not a good book.” I agreed

with her.

So, kudos to movie director Sam Taylor-Johnson and screen writer Kelly Marcel; their adaptation made a poor book into an interesting, though not overwhelming, motion picture. Those expecting two hours of titillation, however, may have been disappointed. That isn’t to say that viewers didn’t see as much as the censors allowed for a movie rated “R”, and certainly the protagonists, Dakota Johnson (Anastasia), daughter of Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson, and Jamie Dornan (Christian), were easy on the eye.

The final scene which showed a besotted Christian calling out to an in-love but less besotted Anastasia in an elevator, and she answering with his name as the doors closed, left us waiting for what I believe is the inevitable - “Fifty Shades of Grey 2.” We haven’t seen the last of Dakota and Jamie, that’s for sure.

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“I just felt something had to be said. I said it to the manager at Royal Cinemas. I said it in an email to Royal Cinemas. I said it on Facebook. And other people said, ‘Say it with a petition, and we’ll say it with you.’ And so we did.” – petition-boycott organizer Regina Doman

Regina and hubby Andrew, here being interviewed by Fox 5 DC during Aug. 25, 2014 demonstration in support of Front Royal’s “Magic Code” ban, are editors of a publishing company of fiction not currently accepting ‘unsolicited manuscripts’.

Doman had actually read any of the “50 Shades” books, so on Tuesday, February 17, I sent the following follow-up questions and comments: Thanks for the reply, Regina – it wasn’t clear to me in your first answer when you said you have “known about” the “50 Shades” books since the first one was initially self published, as to whether you have actually read any of them in total or in part?

So: Q – Have you actually read any of them?

Q – If not, as an author would you acknowledge a difference between having read a work versus “knowing

about” it (second hand)?

Q – I guess what I’m getting at is judgments made on rumor versus knowledge of the actual content of a book or any work of art. I’d think as an author yourself, you would be sensitive to that distinction. For example, say a mentally ill person started saying that one of your books was supportive of child abuse and a number of people took up the cause of boycotting your books based on second-hand information because they were aware of your book (and the allegations against it) solely second hand, through the rumor mill – wouldn’t you have a problem with

that? NOTE: I have spoken to a number of people who have read the book(s) and/or seen the movie, and I am informed that the plot revolves around the woman ending up being the dominant one in the relationship despite her submissive sexual role, because the man falls in love with her, while she remains emotionally aloof from the relationship.

So, I guess the nuanced question the books and movie pose is: how is dominance and submission defined.

Having studied psychology and sociology in college, the posit can be made that if someone is a masochist you can’t “hurt” them by inflicting pain, psychological or physical, on them because that is what they enjoy, want and desire. Now I’m not saying that is a healthy state of mind, just one that exists in human relationships.

Q – It appears from this, albeit second-hand, information on the books, that rather than promote abuse of women, they pose complex questions about the nature of human relationships – do you think that is possible?

Ms. Doman replied later that day: Regina Doman: Here’s what I mean by “knowing” about the books: I talk to a lot of teen girls in the course of my work, and they tell me about the books that they’re reading. And they ask me my opinions on things in the books, and we have discussions, online or in person. Sometimes I then go and read the books in question myself. So I’ve read the most significant teen novels of the past decade (ie: Twilight, the Hunger Games).

When teens (and their moms) started telling me about 50 Shades, I found out from them what it was about. I

Community have *not* (* in text of reply) read 50 Shades, but I have talked to people who have, and I think I understand why these girls (and women) are reading it.

You are correct in that the protagonist of 50 Shades is a young woman who willingly consents to being the “submissive” of a man with an addiction to violent sexual acts (ie: sadism).

From there, the plot basically follows the plot of the Twilight books, with the young woman eventually becoming the “bad man’s” savior and winning his love and transforming him into a new man worthy of her love.

Twilight was fantasy: I really had no problem with it. There *are* no chaste vampires out there who will sing girls to sleep every night, defend them from predator vampires, and forgo having sex with them till they can marry them and devote their entire lives to making them happy. So stopping teens from reading Twilight for fear they will fall in love with a vampire is silly.

50 Shades is fantasy too, but in a different way. Because there *are* depraved men out there who will ask an impressionable young girl to take off her clothes and let him beat her, humiliate her, and so on. But the chances of her love *saving* him and changing him into prince charming? Um. Here’s where the realism you mention about “what exists in human relations” comes in. Despite the fact that we tell our teen girls to be strong, be safe, be smart, far too many of them will do anything to earn a guy’s love, even if the guy is a scumbag. I don’t like that this happens, but the fact is, it happens. Are you going to deny this?

So I understand why women’s shelters are actively boycotting this film.

They’re there to pick up the pieces afterwards.

50 Shades is selling our girls a lie.

I can’t live with myself if I don’t tell them that.

BTW I’m fine with you questioning whether or not I’ve read the book, but I’m not fine with your questioning whether or not my thoughts on it or valid because I’ve gotten my information on it from people I trust.

After all, you stated at the outset that you have neither read the books nor seen the movie and yet you’re doing a report on it based solely on the reports of other people. I don’t see how my position is any different from yours, honestly.

Peace and good Regina Doman PS: I’m assuming you know that 50 Shades started out as a Twilight fanfic, right? Google it.

A final thought Regarding her PS, well, no I didn’t – and I will.

On Ms. Doman’s final comment on any difference between us both operating on second-hand information about the “50 Shades” books, I will simply note that I am not advocating that anyone either see the movie or not – or engage in a potentially financially crippling boycott of this community’s only movie theater because the owner chose to show a film based on public demand.

What I am advocating is that no one in this community cavalierly attempt to economically bully or cripple any local business because some in this community have a different perspective than their group does on a film, book, newspaper, faith, fortune telling or anything else.

We do, after all, exist in a civil society that gives us certain legally protected rights against the dominance of any single religious group – or even more particularly, any single subset of any given religion. Ms. Doman chose to ignore questions about the legal separation of church and state in this country, but I fear such questions may be at the root of this, as well as earlier boycott and bullying efforts aimed at independent, small businesses in this community that have arisen over the past six months.

Many ultra-conservative Catholics have relocated to this community over the past three decades, attracted by the presence of conservative Catholic institutions like Christendom College, Human Life International, Seton Home School, Chelsea Academy, Population Research Institute, and perhaps Regina and Andrew Schmiedicke’s publishing company stressing faith-based topics.

As St. John’s Catholic Church priest Father Fasano told me last summer, St. John’s now has the largest church congregation in this community.

However, that congregation is not a majority of this community’s population – and this radical activist subset of it, even less so. But even if they were a majority, those numbers would not give them the right to supersede civil legal protections on the rights of free speech or free choice of the remaining population of Front Royal and Warren County to view, act and believe in manners they are legally entitled to view, act and believe.

And if they DO think they have a greater right to legislate behavior, faith or morality based on a belief, no matter how questionable, that they understand, speak and act for a Creative Force of the universe that is likely far more complex and elusive than they may ever comprehend, their issues with other locals, including more moderate elements of the local Catholic community, are likely to only escalate in coming years.

After all, nobody likes a bully.

– rogerb@warrencountyreport.com

Page 18 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Late February, 2015

Front Royal-Warren Co

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DĂŠjĂ vu: Final middle school rezoning vote approved 4-2 School Board presents annual middle school operational cost estimate

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report Along the same lines as a first reading vote on January 26, the Front Royal Town Council approved a second and final reading approval of a rezoning that will allow construction of a second county public middle school near Happy Creek Road.

The 4-2 vote for approval on February 9, saw Bret Hrbek and Gene Tewalt dissent, not because they oppose construction of the school, but because they feel the town has not received adequate assurances on shared costs on road improvements in the area.

However, as we explained in the wake of the January 26 vote, the council majority accepted the county stance that its two-thirds funding share on construction of Leachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Run Parkway and projections the new school will actually reduce traffic on much of the town portion of Happy Creek Road.

At a December 1, 2014, work ses-

sion County Administrator Doug Stanley referenced traffic stats provided by consultant Pennoni & Associates indicating future middle school traffic accounting for only 2.3% to 3.4% (or approximately 160 of 4900-6000) trips in the Happy CreekLeachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Run-Shenandoah Shores traffic corridor, dependent on future industrial development in the area.

And Stanley supported county Public Schools Superintendent Pamela McInnis argument that while it was true that school boundaries had yet to be drawn, common sense indicated it would takes students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and traffic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s east and south sides out of town, lightening the traffic burden on the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portion of Happy Creek Road, as well as in-town through traffic. The southside traffic will hit John Marshall Highway and access the new school along Leachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Run Parkway, rather than go through town as most school traffic does.

The 4.71 acres parcel the new middle school will sit on was part of

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a friendly boundary adjustment that brought a total of 84 acres earmarked for future development into the town.

Warren Memorial Hospital plans a major new complex in the area as it plans to expand out of its current location on North Shenandoah Avenue at some point.

After being delayed for one year by the county board of supervisors to allow set-aside funds to accumulate, school construction is slated to begin next year to facilitate a 2017 school year opening.

At a joint county-school board budget work session on February 17, school officials estimated total annual operational costs of $1,569,783 for the new middle school. Of that total, $1,041,191 was in total staff costs. The balance of $528,592 was in contact costs for custodial services ($184,800); utilities, including intown water-sewer service ($30,000); electricity ($200,000); phone ($3,000); and unspecified General Fund expenses of $110,792.

upgrades would be required about five years ago, cost estimates were around $35 million. But hey, maybe the interest free deals through the Virginia Water Facilities Revolving Fund wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been available back then.

The bond proceeds approved were for $39,377,600 and the grant proceeds totaled $11,667,489.

Only one reading was required for approval due to state codes related to the interest-free funding issues.

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On the bright side, the town was the recipient of interest-free Bond and Grants to cover costs; on the down side those costs are now estimated at $51,045,089.

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Late February, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Page 19

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

Contact the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services to take advantage of their Smoke Alarm Program and receive your free smoke alarm(s) and installation service, as well as maintenance and testing assistance.

Public safety

Smoke alarm credited with saving life in High Knob fire

The fully engulfed Chestnut Trail residential fire of Feb. 2 in High Knob â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Photo Courtesy WC Fire & Rescue In a press release issued on February 10, the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services credited a smoke alarm for saving the life of the injured occupant in the February 2 residential fire at 187 Chestnut Trail Road in High Knob.

Investigators from the Fire Marshalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office determined that while that female occupant was on the second floor of the home a fire broke out in the first floor kitchen activating the smoke alarm. That occupant, identified at the February 3 board of supervisors meeting by Warren County Administrator Doug Stanley as High Knob POA activist Sharon Gillespie, first alerted fire and rescue crews by calling 911. She then attempted to use a fire extinguisher to put the fire out. Unsuccessful in that attempt, Gillespie exited the home but attempted to re-enter and save two pet cats in the residence. At that point, the occupant received several non-life-threatening burn injuries which were initially treated at War-

ren Memorial Hospital and later at the University Medical Center in Charlottesville, VA. Fire Chief Richard E. Mabie stated â&#x20AC;&#x153;this is a true success in seeing the value of a working smoke alarm. Our Department preaches the values of working smoke alarms and this is one [example of why].â&#x20AC;?

The release noted that â&#x20AC;&#x153;fire and rescue units arrived to find a twostory log chalet home fully involved.

Firefighters faced 20 mph winds with gusts up to 31mph, as well as snow and ice conditions which challenged fire suppression efforts. The home was destroyed, with an estimated $500,000 loss; the home and its contents were a total loss. Two firefighters also received eye injuries and were treated on scene. One was then transported to Warren Memorial Hospital.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a prime example of how this inexpensive device for your home can potentially save your or your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life,â&#x20AC;? stated Fire Marshal

With hot spots still visible on ground floor, the aftermath of the Chestnut Trail fire.

Gerry Maiatico. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in your home that can alert you and your family to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week.â&#x20AC;?

The press release on the incident further noted that while smoke alarms can be crucial night or day, 24x7, in alerting residents of potentially deadly fires, they must be maintained to be effective. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all, so test your smoke alarm monthly by pushing the test button, if it has one,â&#x20AC;? the fire department says.

The county emergency services-fire and rescue department is available to help with testing, maintenance and free installation service.

If you need assistance in any of these regards, contact the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services to take advantage

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The Department also reminds everyone that â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Out â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stay Outâ&#x20AC;? of any fire situation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These simple 5 words could have saved the occupant of this home from her burn injuriesâ&#x20AC;? stated Chief Mabie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While

most of us treat our pets as family and our instinct is to save our family; this is where many lives are lost at fire incident.â&#x20AC;?

For more Fire and Life Safety Information and ways you can improve the safety in your home, contact us at (540) 636-3830 or visit us on the web at www.warrencountyfire.com

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Page 20 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 or Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707

Briefs Virginia Cooperative Extension Offers Web-based Walking Program Does getting healthy seem like a daunting task? Could you use a little structure and encouragement? Then register to be part of FitEx, an 8 week team-based health program designed to increase physical activity and improve eating habits.

Most Virginians want to stay fit, be physically active, and eat a more healthy diet, but have difficulty finding the time, energy, and motivation to get moving. FitEx, a web-based walking program developed by Virginia Cooperative Extension, helps Virginians improve their exercise habits, diet, and overall quality of life in a fun and challenging way. FitEx encourages all participants to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity such as brisk walking, running, yoga, or biking on five or more days of the week.

The program begins on March 15 and lasts until May 9. Registration

to d e uc 0

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

opens March 1, 2015. Although FitEx is not a competition, co-workers, friends, and family members join together in teams of six. Each team has a captain who helps the group set goals for its personal achievement. Anyone age 5 and up who is willing and able to participate in an 8-week physical activity program may sign up for FitEx. The program also includes a nutrition component that promotes increased fruit and vegetable consumption. Over the previous two years, over 2,000 FitEx participants increased their physical activity by an average of 54 minutes per week and ate over 70,000 cups of fruits and vegetables per week, which is 560,000 cups over the duration of the program.

To participate, find a team of 6 people and choose a captain and a team name. Captains will register their teams on the FitEx website at www. fit-ex.org. Registration will be open between March 1-14. Each team will set a mileage goal for the 8-week program. A mile can be logged as any

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chunk of moderate physical activity such as walking, running, bicycling, or other activity. Team captains will sign in to the FitEx page once or more per week and log the number of miles completed by the team. The website will track each team’s progress toward their goal and compare the team to other teams across Virginia.

Anyone interested in being a team captain can contact Rebecca Davis at rdavis58@vt.edu or 540-665-5699.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services, or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Rebecca Davis, Frederick County Extension, at 540-665-5699/

TDD 800-828-1120 during business hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

2014-15 School Calendar Adjusted; 2015-16 School Calendar Approved The Frederick County School Board has amended the 2014-15 School Calendar in order to make up some of the instructional time lost due to inclement weather. The changes include: • Monday, March 16, 2015 will be a regular school day instead of a teacher workday • Saturday, March 21, 2015, will be-

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come an optional attendance teacher workday • The scheduled early dismissal daysFebruary 20, 2015; March 27, 2015; April 24, 2015; and June 5, 2015; will become full school days.

As of February 17, Frederick County Public Schools have been closed for eight days due to inclement weather.

The Code of Virginia requires the length of each school year to be a minimum of 180 days or 990 instructional hours. State Code also states

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Late February, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Page 21

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com â&#x20AC;˘ 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com â&#x20AC;˘ 540-551-2072 that school divisions must make up each of the first five days missed due to inclement weather plus one day for each two days missed in excess of the first five. Frederick Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2014-15 School Calendar included 185 days to allow for five days to be missed. Schools Superintendent David Sovine says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The adjustments to the 2014-15 calendar approved by the School Board will help us meet

the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements regarding the length of the school year and provide us with some additional banked time should additional school days be missed due to inclement weather.â&#x20AC;?

The School Board also approved the 2015-16 School Calendar during its meeting on February 17. The first day of school for students will be August 17, 2015. Winter break will be from December 21, 2015, through January

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1, 2016. Spring Break will be March 25-29, 2016. The last day of school for students will be June 3, 2016.

James Wood High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduation ceremony will be held on June 1, 2016 (rain date June 2), Millbrook High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduation ceremony will be held on June 3, 2016 (rain date June 4) and Sherando High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduation ceremony will be held on June 4, 2016 (rain date June 5).

Sherando High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Warrior CafĂŠ has been Gold Certified for the Sixth Year by National DECA For the sixth time, Sherando High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Warrior CafĂŠ has been Gold Certified by National DECA. The honor comes through the hard work of Sherandoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DECA advisors Debo-

Briefs rah Carper and Jason Uhry as well as DECA students who prepared the documentation required to be considered for the gold certification. Just 285 school-based enterprises across the United State received the Gold Level Certification.

Two FCPS Students Among the Six Distinguished Finalists for The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Millbrook High School senior Hannah Hardison and James Wood High School senior Madeline Rosso have each been named one of the six Distinguished Finalists in Virginia in the 2015 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.

Hardison was recognized for rais-

ing $2,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society by hosting an 8K race in her community, for which she recruited a team of volunteers, created a website and Facebook page, secured sponsorships and donations, arranged promotional materials, and coordinated all logistical issues.

Hannah wanted to raise funds to support research for a cure because her father was diagnosed with M.S. when she was an infant. Madeline is an active member of WorkCamp, a weeklong summer program sponsored by her church where teenagers gather to conduct a variety of home repair projects for people who are unable to do it themselves. In addition to WorkCamp, which she joined in 2012, Madeline has volunteered at soup kitchens, read and sung at nursing homes and assisted with her Parish Fair.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards represents the United Statesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; largest youth recognition program based solely on volunteer service.  See BRIEFS, 22

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Page 22 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Late February, 2015

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com â&#x20AC;˘ 540-551-2072 or Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com â&#x20AC;˘ 540-671-8707

Briefs BRIEFS, from 21 Shenandoah Valley Entrepreneur Network: VEN-ture.com The Shenandoah Valley has a wealth of creativity, passion, capability, and entrepreneurial spirit. Â Â The objective of VEN-TURE is to harness the entrepreneurial drive and connect like minds with the support of various Shenandoah area chambers of commerce and economic development authorities. Â Â We bring together â&#x20AC;&#x153;likeâ&#x20AC;? minds in an informal setting to have fun, network, and learn from peers and mentors. The relationships forged at our gatherings are completely organic.

There is no rule book, and very little structure.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to meet like-minded people when you are an entrepreneur.

VEN-TURE bridges that gap. We bring great minds together, businesses into partnerships, and facilitate collaborative learning among peers.   Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all done organically. No pomp and circumstance. Just real people coming together for a common interest. Whether you have been in business 20 years, 2 years, or you are in incubation, the Valley Entrepreneurial Network will provide new ideas, new relationships, and new vigor to your current social and business networks. Email: venture1796@ gmail.com to RSVP. See you at the Gathering! Valley Entrepreneur Network is about networking, fun and education. We meet once a month in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia for a drink, a chat, and an educational presentation. Entrepreneurial relationships (and mentorships) grow organically. There are no rules and very little structure. We want you to think â&#x20AC;&#x153;OUTSIDEâ&#x20AC;? the box. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Invited!Â

Where:Â Wayside Inn, 7783 Main St. Middletown VA 22645 When:Â Feb. 25th, 6PM-7:30PM Feb. Presentation:Â Lord Fairfax Small Business Development Center.

Boating Safety Course The Warren County Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with the Department of Gaming and Inland Fisheries will be holding a Boater Safety Course for anyone interested, at the Warren County Community Center, 538 Villa Ave, Front Royal, VA 22630, on the following dates: Saturday, March 14, 2015 9:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:00pm Saturday, March 28, 2015 9:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:00pm Saturday, April 11, 2015 9:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:00pm This course is a complete program covering the basics of recreational boating. This boating safety course is designed for boaters using all types of watercraft.

This course includes six main chapters, which will cover: Boat Education Getting Out on the Water Boat Safety Boating Emergencies Enjoying Water Sports.

This course is available at no cost with no age limit. Limited to 60 participants.

No pre-registration is required.

For more information about the course contact Mary Loose DeViney at MLoose@aol.com.

To register contact the Warren County Community Center at (540) 635-1021, Monday through Saturday 8:00am to 10:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm-9:00pm.

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Samuels Public Library March Events These are the events taking place in the Youth Services Department of Samuels Public Library during the month of March: Tuesday, March 3 11:00 Time for Baby. What do books, scarves, puppets, music and babies have in common? They are all part of Time for Baby. Join us as we use all of our senses to explore the world around us. Meet with your baby up to two years of age. Siblings welcome.

4:30 Big Kids Story time for Kindergarten and up. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story time focuses on all of the wonderful things you can do with crayons.

Wednesday, March 4 10:15 Toddler Story time. Do you like surprises? Join us for Tales with a Twist. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Do you like surprises? Join us for Tales with a Twist. Siblings welcome.

Thursday, March 5 10:15 Toddler Story time. Do you like surprises? Join us for Tales with a Twist. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Do you like surprises? Join us for Tales with a Twist. Siblings welcome.

Saturday, March 7 10:10 Books and Barks. Come to our extremely popular monthly program that gives developing readers the chance to read and relax with a trained therapy dog. For beginning

readers and up. Registration begins February 7.

Tuesday, March 10 4:30 Big Kids Story time for Kindergarten and up. Come join us as we explore cooking and Fun in the Kitchen! A S.T.E.M program.

Wednesday, March 11 10:15 Toddler Story time. Do you believe in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Luck of the Irish?â&#x20AC;? Come join us as we celebrate Irish culture and St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Do you believe in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Luck of the Irish?â&#x20AC;?

Come join us as we celebrate Irish culture and St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Siblings welcome.

Thursday, March 12 10:15 Toddler Story time. Do you believe in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Luck of the Irish?â&#x20AC;? Come join us as we celebrate Irish culture and St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Do you believe in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Luck of the Irish?â&#x20AC;?

Come join us as we celebrate Irish culture and St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Siblings welcome.

Saturday, March 14 11:00 Chess Challenge. Meet other

kids and teens who enjoy the challenge of a good Chess game. Ages 6 and up.

2:00 Irish Step Dancing. Celebrate St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day with an Irish Step Dancing performance by the Jig â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Jive Dance Studio. For the whole family!

Tuesday, March 17 4:30 Big Kids Story time for Kindergarten and up. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrate the â&#x20AC;&#x153;luck of the Irishâ&#x20AC;? with a St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day-themed story time.

Wednesday, March 18 10:15 Toddler Story time. Pancakes!

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Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 23

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 songs and a pancake craft. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Pancakes! Who doesn’t love these sweet, fluffy breakfast treats? Join us for stories, songs and a pancake craft. Siblings welcome.

Thursday, March 19 10:15 Toddler Story time. Pancakes!

Who doesn’t love these sweet, fluffy breakfast treats? Join us for stories, songs and a pancake craft. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Pancakes! Who doesn’t love these sweet, fluffy breakfast treats? Join us for stories, songs and a pancake craft. Siblings welcome.

Saturday, March 21 11:00 Saturday Family Story time.

Bring the whole family to our sky

blue room for an assortment of exciting stories with Miss Pattie. Join the Tree Stewards Group in Celebrating Spring! Learn all about the importance of trees!

2:00 Teens Create: The Wonderful World of Watercolor. Come learn all about water colors and explore LOTS of different techniques for using this medium! White crayons, salt, masking tape, bubble wrap- the possibilities for using water colors are endless. Each teen will get a large sheet of water color paper and together we will explore this world! Discuss the pros and cons of using water colors, along with some artists that chose to use water color to make their art.

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Tuesday, March 24 4:30 Big Kids Story time for Kindergarten and up. Yay! It’s Spring time.

Let’s celebrate the season with an exciting mix of warm weather stories and a craft.

Wednesday, March 25 10:15 Toddler Story time. Spring is here once again! Please join us for stories and songs that celebrate this wonderful season! A S.T.E.M program. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Spring is here once again! Please join us For stories and songs that celebrate this wonderful season! A S.T.E.M program. Siblings welcome.

Thursday, March 26 10:15 Toddler Story time. Spring is here once again! Please join us for stories and songs that celebrate this wonderful season! A S.T.E.M program. Siblings welcome.

11:00 Preschool Story time. Spring is here once again! Please join us For stories and songs that celebrate this wonderful season! A S.T.E.M program. Siblings welcome.

Saturday, March 28 11:00 Preschool Fair. The MOMS CLUB of Front Royal presents its annual Preschool Fair. Come in and learn about all of the wonderful opportunities available for preschoolers in our area! Daycare centers,

Briefs preschools, the library and other recreational organizations will be represented.

Tuesday, March 31 4:30 Big Kids Story time for Kindergarten and up. What does the word family mean to you? Let’s discuss this important topic and read stories about it! Afterwards, do a craft!

Lord Fairfax Community College Selected as Member of the Competency-Based Education Network An announcement on February 10, 2015 made it official that Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) had been selected as a member of the Competency-Based Education Network (C-BEN). C-BEN is a group of colleges and universities working together to address shared challenges to designing, developing, and scaling competency-based degree programs.

Dr. John Milam, LFCC’s Professor and Executive Director of Knowledge to Work, proclaims, “This is an extraordinary opportunity for LFCC to help position itself as a national leader in competency based-educa-

tion. We’ll be right there alongside the University of Southern New Hampshire, Capella, and Brandman University in working through the design and policy issues to make this new approach to education work.”

Competency-based degree programs are promising approaches to helping educate more Americans, because they hold potential as a better way to plan, organize, deliver, and support education for students who are not well served by traditional academic instruction. C-BEN was formed a year ago in response to clear demand from colleges and universities that had been building competency-based models in isolation.

Today, these leading institutions are working collaboratively to accelerate progress on shared challenges around program design and integrity, business processes and systems, and vendor relations to build models capable of scaling to serve many more students from all backgrounds.

In September, Lord Fairfax Community College received $3.25 million from the U.S. Department of See BRIEFS, 24

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Page 24 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 or Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707

Briefs BRIEFS, from 23 Labor under the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) initiative. The funding is being used to create Knowledge to Work, a new type of educational search engine and online portal designed to help workers find free and low-cost, credit and non-credit learning resources as part of personal learning plans to get competencies and credentials, including badges, certificates, and degrees. Dr. Milam explains that, “With C-BEN we can even be more efficient and effective in what we’re doing with our TAACCCT grant.

This really gives us a boost in creating this vision.”

To learn more about LFCC’s CBEN membership or the Knowledge to Work Program, contact Dr. John Milam atjmilam@lfcc.edu or (540) 868-7249.

Local Councilman and NAACP President Speak to WPD Officers The Winchester Police Department is taking a proactive approach to improve relationships with minorities in our community. The police department is opening up a dialogue about the current law enforcement climate. Winchester City Councilman John Hill and Winchester NAACP Chapter President Gwen Walker are addressing officers about how minorities may feel when they are being pulled over by a police officer. The presentation includes a brief history of racial segregation and the feelings that may still exist among African Americans following these historical events. Members of the media are invited to attend the presentation of John Hill and Gwen Walker on

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Wednesday, February 18th at 7 a.m. in the Debbie Bock Training Room at the Timbrook Public Safety Center.

Police Chief Kevin Sanzenbacher is also leading a group that is planning activities for our local youth.

The first event, which included a DJ from Shenandoah University’s Black Student Union, games, pizza, dancing, and door prizes, was held Friday night at the Boys & Girls Club.

About 30 local youth, primarily from the North End of the city, attended the event which was free to Handley High School Students ages 14 to 18.

The students had the opportunity to interact with police officers who were not in uniform. This was the first of many events that will be planned to improve the relationships among police officers and area youth.

2nd Annual Senior Festival to be Held in April During the 2nd Annual Senior Spring Festival hosted by the Winchester/Frederick County TRIAD, local seniors will be educated on our area’s heroin epidemic and what they can do to help combat the problem.

Research shows prescription drug abuse often leads to heroin abuse and the prescriptions that are abused are many times stolen from a loved one. One of the seven presentations during the TRIAD Spring Festival will be on proper medication disposal. Seniors will be encouraged to lock up their prescriptions in a medication lock box, and to dispose of their unused and expired medications in a collection unit.

The Senior Festival will be held on Friday, April 10 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Braddock Street United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

TRIAD is a partnership between the

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local sheriff ’s offices, police department, seniors and senior service providers in the community who work together to reduce criminal victimization of the elderly. The local Seniors and Law Enforcement Together Council (S.A.L.T. Council) includes representatives from the Winchester Police Department, Winchester City Sheriff ’s Office, Frederick County Sheriff ’s Office, more than a dozen senior service providers, and local seniors.

The festival will include vendors, free breakfast and lunch, and speakers on the following topics: Fraud/Scams Elder Abuse Medication Disposal Medicare and Your Options Seniors Driving Safety Respite Care Project Lifesaver To register visit www.dutchhavenassistedliving.com/Events.html or RSVP to Linda at (540) 327-3083.

Registrations are required by March 27th.

Lifeguard Training Course Enrollment is now being accepted for anyone 15 years of age or older who is interested in becoming an

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This course will consist of 9 training dates beginning Sunday, April 26, 2015; itinerary is available at the Warren County Community Center.

Cost is $235.00 per person and enrollment is limited to 12 participants.

For more information contact Tiffany Walker, Recreation & Aquatics Coordinator at (540) 635-1021 or via email at twalker@warrencountyva. net.

Business with the Commonwealth Duc Truong will be taking appointments on Thursday February 26th, 2015 from 10am until 4pm to assist entrepreneurs in registering with the Commonwealth to be SWaM certified (Small, Woman and Minority) as well as how to become eVa vendors to market themselves to opportunity from the Commonwealth. These will be one-hour sessions and will as a first come, first served basis. Schedule today!

Questions concerning if your business can benefit from Duc’s services, please contact Andy Gyurisin at agyurisin@lfcc.edu or (540) 868-7093.

Call Gary

This session is held in the Middletown area. If you would still like to meet with Duc, but are outside of the area, please contact us for a possible SKYPE session.

Detroit Pistons Vs Washington Wizards Bus Trip Warren County Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor a bus trip to see the Washington Wizards take on the Detroit Pistons on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at the Verizon Center in Washington D.C. Bus will leave from the Warren County Community Center at 4:30pm; game time is 7:00pm. Cost is $60.00 per reservation, includes admission ticket, transportation and a free Washington Wizards t-shirt. Limit 6 tickets per household. Only 32 tickets available.

For more information contact the WC Community Center at (540) 635-1021, Monday through Saturday, 8am -10pm and Sundays, 1pm -9pm or visit us on the web at www.

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Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 25

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 warrencountyva.net.

Disney on Ice: Worlds of Fantasy Bus Trip Come experience a magical Disney fantasy on ice! Rev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories at Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy. Thrill to high speed stunts as Lightning McQueen, Mater and the crew of Disney/Pixar’s Cars race across the ice. Laugh along with Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear in a fun-filled Toy Story 3 adventure. Dive into The Little Mermaid’s enchanting undersea kingdom and enter the mystical world of Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell and the Disney Fairies as they reveal the magic that lies within!

Bus will leave from the Warren County Community Center at 2pm for the live action adventure at the Verizon Center, in Washington D.C. on Sunday, February 15, 2015; show time is 4:30pm. Cost is $58.00 per reservation, includes admission ticket and transportation. Limit 6 tickets per household; 32 reservations are available. Reservations will only be accepted at the Warren County Community Center, 538 Villa Ave, Front Royal, Virginia, Monday through Saturday, 8am -10pm or

Sunday, 1pm-9pm.

For more information contact the Warren County Community Center at (540) 635-1021 or visit us on the web at www.warrencountyva.net.

Nashville Predators Vs Washington Capitals Bus Trip Warren County Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor a bus trip to see the Washington Capitals take on the Nashville Predators on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at the Verizon Center in Washington D.C. Bus will leave from the Warren County Community Center at 10:00am; game time is 12:30pm. Cost is $70.00 per reservation, includes admission ticket, transportation and a free Washington Capitals t-shirt.

Limit 6 tickets per household. Only 32 tickets available.

For more information contact the WC Community Center at (540) 635-1021, Monday through Saturday, 8am -10pm and Sundays, 1pm -9pm or visit us on the web at www. warrencountyva.net Baby Sign Language for Parentsto-be & Newborns This is a great opportunity for newborns to communicate with new

Briefs

parents very early! This class is simple to learn and provides hands on experience how to teach signs with babies from ages 0 to 1. Parents can prepare before birth. Babies can start to sign from 1 week to few months old. Babies will develop early skills of many kinds, build more confidence, reduce frustration and crying, build language skills (talk earlier), and increase/enrich parents and early children bonding and interactions. This class is new and flexible.

This course will be held on Fridays, March 20, 2015 – May 8, 2015 from 10:00am – 11:00am at the Warren County Community Center.

This 8 week program is FREE, but space will be limited to 20 participants. Pre-registration is required.

For expecting parents and babies between the age of 1 week to 3 years old.

For more information please contact Tiffany Walker at (540) 635-1021, or twalker@warrencountyva.net. Registration will only be accepted at the Warren County Community Center at (540) 635-1021, Monday through Saturday, 8am -10pm and Sunday, 1pm -9pm.

American Sign Language 1 for Beginners Sign language can broaden your communication skills, stimulate your senses, and increase your ability to be expressive. This can be an excellent preparatory tool for learning theater mime techniques or fostering a career as an interpreter as well as communication with deaf friends in social events. General finger spelling, vocabulary, signing, using facial ex-

pression and role playing will be emphasized. Students with some or no experience are encouraged to attend.

This course will be held on Tuesdays, March 17, 2015 – May 5, 2015 from 6pm -7pm at the Warren County Community Center.

This 8 week program is FREE, but space will be limited to 20 participants. Pre-registration is required and you must be 13 years or older to attend. For more information please contact Tiffany Walker at (540) 6351021, or twalker@warrencountyva. net. Registration will only be accepted at the Warren County Community Center at (540) 635-1021, Monday through Saturday, 8am -10pm and Sunday, 1pm -9pm.

Sick Nasty Freestyle Club Wrestling Program The Warren County Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with Skyline Wrestling Club will be sponsoring the Sick Nasty Freestyle Club for serious wrestlers at Warren County Middle School, March 11 – May 14, 2015.

This club will meet: Sunday from 3:00pm -5:00pm; Wednesday from 6:00pm -8:00pm; and Thursday from 6:00pm -8:00pm.

Cost is $303.00 for full membership; $202.00 for Sunday only or $15.00 per weeknight or $20.00 per Sunday.

For more information contact Coach Keel at (540) 303-1280 or via email at mkeel@wcps.k12.va.us Registration forms are available at the Warren County Community Center, 538 Villa Ave, Front Royal or

BeyondMeditation:

the Warren County Parks and Recreation office at 200 E. 8th Street, Front Royal.

Roller HockeyStarting with the Basics This Roller Hockey program encompasses the basics in roller skating, stick handling and puck control.

Participants will practice fundamental shooting techniques to better their success in scoring goals as they progress through the program.

Program will be held on Mondays.

March 30 through May 18, 2015 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Mac’s Roller Rink, 5830 Front Royal Pike. White Post.Cost is $125.00 for entire 8 weeks. Minimum of 10 participants.

Ages 9 -12 years old.

For more information or to register, contact WC Community Center at (540) 635-1021, Monday through Saturday 8:00am to 10:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm – 9:00pm.

Friends of the NRA Fundraiser The Northern Valley Friends of NRA will be hosting their 22nd annual fundraiser on March 14th at the Blue Ridge Shadows Holiday Inn north of Front Royal on Rt 522.

Join other champions of the Second Amendment for dinner, raffles, auctions, and fun with a chance to win exclusive NRA guns, gear, decor, and collectibles! Net proceeds benefit youth and shooting sports programs in our communities. NRA membership is not required to participate.

Reservations are required and seating is limited. Go to www.friendsofnra.org for more information or call Dick or Dolly Mason at (540) 6359424.

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Page 26 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 or Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707

Indictments 2015 January Indictments – January Term Cassie Renee Sheetz The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Cassie Renee Sheetz, age and address unknown, with two counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Cassie Renee Sheetz did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule III controlled substance, to-wit: Buprenophrene and Naloxone. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule III controlled substance, to-wit: Buprenophrene and Naloxone while upon public property or any property open to public use within 1,000 feet of public or private school property.

Date of the offenses was on or about September 2, 2014.

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

Karmen Nicole Frazier The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Karmen Nicole Frazier, age and address unknown, with five counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Karmen Nicole Frazier did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin, this being a second or subsequent offense, and said prior conviction occurring prior to the date alleged in this indictment. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously possess with the intent to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin, this being a second or subsequent offense, and said prior conviction occurring prior to the date alleged in this indictment.

COUNT THREE: did unlawfully and

feloniously possess with the intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, to-wit: Oxymorphone.

COUNT FOUR: did unlawfully and feloniously possess with the intent to distribute a Schedule III controlled substance, to-wit: Buprenorphrene and Naloxone. COUNT FIVE: did unlawfully possess controlled paraphernalia for the illegal administration of controlled substances. Date of the offenses was on or about June 11, 2014.

Nicholas Jeffrey Adams The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Nicholas Jeffrey Adams, age and address unknown, with five counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Nicholas Jeffrey Adams did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule

Manassas Ave. home in Front Royal targeted in drug raid

Fredericksburg probation hopper Michael Scott Wade turned up here in alleged Manassas Ave. drug house

Homeowner Susan Yates remains incarcerated at RSW Regional Jail in wake of Feb. 6 drug raid.

In a February 11 press release, the Front Royal Police Department announced drug-related charges against six people busted at a Manassas Avenue residence on Friday, February 6.

FRPD Chief Norman Shiflett announced that two individuals were arrested and taken to the RSW Regional Jail and four more were charged and released on summonses after a search warrant was executed at the Manassas Avenue residence of one of those charged, where evidence of narcotics usage and narcotics sales were visible to officers.

Susan Yates, 45, the owner of the residence, was arrested on the scene for a violation of probation and is still currently being detained

at RSW Regional Jail.

Michael Scott Wade, 37, was arrested on charges of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Possession of Hydromorphone with Intent to Distribute. Wade was also charged with providing false identity to law enforcement for failing to provide his correct name. After discovering Wade’s true identity, it was also discovered that Wade had absconded from his probation in Fredericksburg and probation violation warrants were in the process of being obtained.

James Deveney, Shannon Martinez, Dawn Frankel and Thomas Leathers were all charged by police for Possession of Controlled Paraphernalia. Additional charges are pending laboratory examination of

substances collected from within the residence.

Police were alerted to the residence at 119 Manassas Avenue after receiving several complaints from citizens regarding heavy foot traffic, suspicious activity and suspected drug transactions.

The Warren County Probation and Parole and the Northwest Regional Drug Task Force was also involved with the investigation.

The Front Royal Police Department welcomes citizen complaints and concerns about suspicious or suspected criminal activity in neighborhoods. An open dialog with citizens makes efforts like this possible. If you have concerns about suspicious activity in your neighborhood please don’t hesitate to contact the Front Royal Police at (540) 635-2111.

– From a release

Engle’s Angle: That Was No Lady

By Kevin S. Engle Warren County Report My wife and I are standing in line to rent skis.

There are four lines of skiers and four employees helping everyone.

The couple in front of us are trying on helmets and it’s taking a little longer than I’d like.

I’m impatient, as usual. I want to get my stuff and get on the mountain. I want to ski, not stand in line.

They pick their helmets and head for the next station.

Boots.

It’s our turn.

That is, until we hesitate for a split second and the lady and her son to our left cut in front of us.

The steam shoots out of my ears instantaneously.

If there’s one thing that ticks me off, it’s when people cut in front of me.

Actually, there are a lot of things that tick me off, but line cutting, ooooh, that’s near the top of the list.

The boy glanced back at us a couple times, as if he knew Mommy had done a bad thing.

That’s right little boy, your mommy is a bad person.

She’s a line cutter.

“Calm down,” my wife said.

“We’re here to have fun.”

She was right. We were there to have fun.

But at that moment, I wasn’t, and she knew it.

Not even the words of the famous philosopher, Frank Costanza, from the TV show Seinfeld, calmed me down.

“Serenity now!!!”

No, my blood pressure was in the red zone and climbing.

When the line cutter and her son headed off to get their boots, I did exactly what my

wife didn’t want me to.

Say something.

“Thanks for cutting in front of us.”

She mumbled something, but I didn’t listen. I couldn’t hear her anyway. The adrenaline was flowing and my heart was pounding too loudly in my chest to hear anything.

My wife has cautioned me on more than one occasion about saying anything in situations like this.

“You never know what someone might do.”

And she’s right.

How could I be sure this woman wasn’t a professional cage fighter who’d immediately slam me to the ground?

Talk about embarrassing.

I couldn’t be sure, and that’s exactly why I should keep my mouth shut.

But I can’t.

Line cutters infuriate me. I had to vent. For my blood pressure’s sake.

And besides, I’d eaten my Wheaties® for breakfast. I was feeling confident.

I knew I could handle the kid and my wife could take care of the mom, cage fighter or not.

After all, gentlemen are supposed to treat ladies with respect.

But that was no lady.

“Serenity now!!!”

–kevinengle456@comcast.net

Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 27

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin, while upon public property or any property open to public use within 1,000 feet of public or private school property. COUNT THREE: did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule I controlled sub-stance, towit: Heroin. COUNT FOUR: did unlawfully and feloniously possess with the intent to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin.

COUNT FIVE: did unlawfully and feloniously possess, with the intent to distribute a Schedule I controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Cocaine. Dates of the offenses were on or about August 3 and August 28, 2014.

Nicholas Jeffrey Adams The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about August 28, 2014, in the County of Warren, Nicholas Jeffrey Adams, age and address unknown, did unlawfully and feloniously possess, with the intent to distribute a Schedule I controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Heroin.

Samantha Elizabeth Perry The Warren County Va. Circuit

Court Grand Jury charges Samantha Elizabeth Perry, age and address unknown, with two counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Samantha Elizabeth Perry, age and address unknown, did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, to-wit: Hydromorphone. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, to-wit: Hydromorphone, while upon public property or any property open to public use within 1,000 feet of public or private school property.

Date of the offenses was on or about September 12, 2014.

Tharia Ileigha Roberts The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Tharia Ileigha Roberts, 25, of 284 Creek Side Way, with three counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Tharia Ileigha Roberts did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule III controlled substance, to-wit: Buprenorphrene and Naloxone. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule II con-trolled substance, to-wit: Oxycodone. COUNT THREE: did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, to-wit: Oxycodone, while upon pub-

Blue Ridge Singers late winter, spring schedule

Upcoming choral events of the Blue Ridge Singers:

• Sunday, February 22, 3 p.m. at the Warren Heritage Society: Front Royal Presbyterian Church Choir directed by Beverly Clark present “They Cry for Freedom”

by William Billings, a celebration of George Washington’s birthday.

Born in Boston in 1746, Billings was the first recognized American composer. A tanner by trade, he was also a popular composer, combining European musical conventions with American folk music to create a uniquely American sound.

From encyclopedia.com: Accomplishments. At the age of 23, Billings had already composed more than one hundred original pieces of sacred music, and in 1770 he published his first tune book, The New England Psalm Singer.

Only a dozen or so American composed tunes had previously been published. Collecting more than 120 new compositions, The New England Psalm Singer was the first published compilation of entirely American music and the first tune book composed by one American composer. Perhaps even more significant as a sign of both

Billings’s intentions and the times in which he lived, he advertised the work as “never before published” and stressed that it was composed by “a native of Boston”— made in America by an American.

Published by Benjamin Edes and John Gill, who also published The Boston Gazette and Country Journal, a major Patriot newspaper, and including an engraving by Paul Revere, the book suggested that Billings was strongly aligned with the Rebels. His tune book is striking for the manner in which it boldly signals these nationalist sentiments.

lic property or any property open to public use within 1,000 feet of public or private school property. Dates of the offenses were on or about April 18 and April 22, 2014.

Daniel Scott Moats The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about April 13, 2014, in the County of Warren, Daniel Scott Moats, age and address unknown, did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule I controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Heroin.

Glenn Eugene Sovereign The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about July 29, 2014, in the County of Warren, Glenn Eugene Sovereign, 37, address unknown, did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule II controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Oxycodone.

Billy Joe Sheetz The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about June 20, 2014, in the County of Warren, Billy Joe Sheetz, 30, address unknown, did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule II controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Methadone.

Kasey Nichole Thomas The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about August 29, 2014, in the County of Warren, Kasey Nichole Thomas, 22, address un-known, did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Sched-

Indictments ule I controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Heroin.

Gilbert Edward Baltimore The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about July 23, 2014, in the County of Warren, Gilbert Edward Baltimore, 28, of 1095 N. Royal Ave., Front Royal, VA 22630, did unlawfully and feloniously distribute a Schedule III con-trolled sub-stance, to-wit: Dihydrocodeinone and Acetaminophen.

Brandy Nicole Dawson The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about September 17, 2014, in the County of Warren, Brandy Nicole Dawson, 28, of 343 Kendrick Lane, Apt. 3, Front Royal, VA 22630, did unlawfully and feloniously possess a Schedule I controlled sub-stance, towit: Heroin.

Jamie Amanda Marsell The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about May 14, 2014, in the County of Warren, Jamie Amanda Marsell, 30, of 510 S. Kent St., Winchester, VA 22601, did unlawfully and feloniously possess a Schedule I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin.

Jalon Charles Ezzell The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Jalon Charles Ezzell, 21, of 565 Grimes Golden Rd., Linden, VA, 22642, with two counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Jalon Charles Ezzell did unlawfully and feloniously

possess with the intent to distribute, a Schedule I controlled substance, to-wit: Heroin. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously possess a Schedule II controlled substance, towit: Oxycodone. Date of the offenses was on or about August 26, 2014.

Kelsey Rae Oden The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Kelsey Rae Oden, 20, of 421 E. Criser Rd. Apt. 101, Front Royal, VA 22630, with three counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Kelsey Rae Oden did unlawfully and feloniously obtain by false pretense money in the amount of $200.00 or more from John W. Bolton, with the intent to defraud. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously forge with the intent to defraud or attempt to employ as true, a forged draft or check.

COUNT THREE: did unlawfully and feloniously conspire to obtain by false pretense money in the amount of $200.00 or more from John W. Bolton, with the intent to defraud.

Date of the offenses was on or about March 11, 2014.

Melvin Leon Porter The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about November 8, 2014 in the County of Warren, Melvin Leon Porter, 43, of 124 W. Main St., Front Royal, VA 22630, did unlawfully, feloniously, knowingly and intentionally possess or transport a pistol, revolver or other firearm, after previously been convicted of a felony See INDICTMENTS, 28

Suspects in downtown Front Royal B&E in custody

The Blue Ridge Singers’ spring concert “An American Choral Cross-Section” features choral music by American composers from the 1800s through the present day.

(We are told this program is director Alban’s favorite to date):

Christopher Chappell

Joseph Thomas Feny

• Friday, April 17, 7:30 p.m., Front Royal Presbyterian Church; • Sunday, April 19, 4 p.m. Opequon Presbyterian Church, Winchester; • Tuesday, April 21, 7:30 p.m., All Saints Catholic Church, Manassas.

A $10 donation is suggested at these performances.

On November 17, 2014, Front Royal Police took a report of a suspected burglary at a business located at 518 N. Royal Ave, Front Royal, Virginia. Police discovered that entry had been made through a rear window of Shenk’s Rusco Window Company and according to the

business owner, the cash register had been tampered with and money was stolen. During the course of the investigation, two additional police reports were taken at the same location and it was discovered that unknown persons were living in an outbuilding behind the business.

Chief Norman Shiflett advised that as a result of the investigation, the two suspects were identified as Joseph Thomas Feny, 23, and Christopher Barton Ashby Chappell, 21, both residents of Front Royal. Feny and Chappell are both charged with one count of Felony Burglary and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Burglary. The two are also charged with misdemeanor Petit Larceny in connection with the burglary. Feny is currently being held at the RSW Regional Jail and Chappell is out on bond awaiting trial.

This is currently an ongoing investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jason Lethcoe of the Front Royal Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (540) 636-2208 or jlethcoe@frontroyalva.com.

– From a Feb. 10 release

Page 28 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Late February, 2015

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Indictments INDICTMENTS, from 27 Vernon Lee Ramey II The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about December 23, 2014, in the County of Warren, Vernon Lee Ramey II, 35, of 1611 Zachary Taylor Hwy., Huntly, VA 22640, did unlawfully and feloniously, with the intention of converting goods and merchandise to his own use without having paid the full price thereof, willfully conceal the goods or merchandise of Walmart, with a value of $200.00 or more.

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Jamee Catherine Sandy The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Jamee Catherine Sandy, 26, of 68 Skyline Trailer Court, Bentonville, VA 22610, with three counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren, Jamee Catherine Sandy did un-lawfully and feloniously, by force or intimidation and without legal justification or excuse, seize, take, transport, or detain the person of Lucille Taylor, with the in-

tent to deprive said Lucille Taylor of her personal liberty. COUNT TWO: did unlawfully and feloniously break and enter in the daytime the dwelling house of Lucille Taylor, with the intent to commit assault and battery therein. COUNT THREE: did unlawfully assault and batter Lucille Taylor.

Date of the offenses was on or about October 15, 2014.

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Sarah Elizabeth Thompson The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about September 6, 2014, in the County of Warren, Sarah Elizabeth

Thompson, 29, address unknown, did unlawfully and feloniously assault and batter Michael Nixon, a correctional officer at the RSW Regional Jail, then knowing or having reason to know that said Michael Nixon was

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Late February, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Page 29

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To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com â&#x20AC;˘ 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com â&#x20AC;˘ 540-551-2072 then engaged in the performance of his public duties as a correctional officer.

Brandi Love Turnmyer The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about May 12, 2014, in the County of Warren, Brandi Love Turnmyer, 36, of 35 Company House, Strasburg, VA 22657, did unlawfully and feloniously possess a Schedule II controlled substance, to-wit: Methadone.

John Robert Matthews The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about October 17, 2014, in the County of Warren, John Robert Matthews, 66, of 56C Chester St., Apt. 1, Front

Indictments

Royal, VA 22630, did unlawfully and feloniously, with the intention of converting goods and merchandise to his own use without having paid the full price thereof, willfully conceal or take possession of the goods or merchandise of K-Mart, having previously been convicted of larceny or an offense deemed as larceny two or more times.

Megan Mae Turner

Sarah Lynn Schnebly

The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about April 26, 2014, in the County of Warren, Megan Mae Turner, 24, of 101 Madison Lane, Apt. C-22, Luray, VA 22835 did unlawfully and feloniously possess a Schedule II controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Amphetamine.

Megan Mae Turner

Brooke Nicole Spindle

The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about April 4, 2014, in the County of Warren, Megan Mae Turner, 24, of 101 Madison Lane, Apt. C-22, Luray, VA 22835 did unlawfully and feloniously possess a Schedule II controlled sub-stance, to-wit: Methadone.

The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about January 25, 2014, in the County of Warren, Brooke Nicole Spindle, 25, of 545 Catlett Mtn. Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, did, as a result of driving under the influence, unintentionally cause the death of Holly Anne Smedley.

The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Sarah Lynn Schnebly, 23, of 236 Fredericktowne Dr., Stephens City, VA 22655, with two counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren Sarah Lynn Schnebly did un-lawfully and feloniously forge a public record, or a certificate, return, or attestation of a public official or employee, in relation to a matter in which such certificate, return or attestation may be received as legal proof. COUNT TWO: Sarah Lynn Schnebly did unlawfully use identifying information of another to avoid summons, arrest or prosecution. Date of the offenses was on or about November 9, 2014.

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Kyle Wade Shelton The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges that: on or about December 29, 2014, in the County of Warren, Kyle Wade Shelton, 25, of 3194 Browntown Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, did unlawfully and feloniously steal property, having a value of $200.00 or more, belonging to Matthew Jones.

Dawn Marie Holmes

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Kenneth Varnau After 4 months of being laid off in 2009, Kenneth found work, only to find in the process he had exhausted all of his savings. To make matters worse his furnace quit working. The cost to replace just the furnace was $3400 and he did not have the extra money to spend at the time. He has been heating his home with Kerosene and a small electric heater for 6 years. Kenneth lives at home with his two dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and they would be very appreciative to win a new furnace so they can stay warm and not have to breathe the harmful fumes of the kerosene heaters anymore. Please like their photo and help them win.

Mary and Raymond Laughry Mary and Raymond are without heat.

They have a small woodstove that provides them with some warmth but is hard for them to keep up with.

Raymond is struggling with pneumonia and his currently in the hospital and Mary is in and out of the hospital with the same problem. They are both elderly and it is difficult for them to bring wood in to maintain a steady fire. In addition to this hardship, Mary is in the process of losing her Church where she is the minister in Gid Brown Hollow because of other difficulties.

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The Warren County Va. Circuit Court Grand Jury charges Dawn Marie Holmes, age and address unknown, with four counts. COUNT ONE: In the County of Warren Dawn Marie Holmes did un-lawfully and feloniously, as a result of driving while intoxicated, in a manner so gross, wanton and culpable as to show a reckless disregard for human life, unintentionally cause the serious bodily injury of Elizabeth Meade, resulting in permanent and significant physical impairment. COUNT TWO:

did drive or operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, with a blood alcohol concentration of greater than 0.15 grams per 210 liters of breath. COUNT THREE: did unlawfully possess Marijuana. COUNT FOUR: did unlawfully drive a motor vehicle on a highway while her driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license or privilege to drive a motor vehicle has been suspended or revoked. Date of the offenses was on or about July 25, 2014.

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Local authors from Front Royal, Rappahannock and Warren Counties will display their work from 2 to 4 p.m. At 2 p.m. a panel will discuss pros and cons of different ways to publish your book. Ira Chaleff, Author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Courageous Follower: Standing Up to and For Our Leadersâ&#x20AC;? will coordinate the panel discussion.

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Page 30 â&#x20AC;˘ Warren & Frederick County Report â&#x20AC;˘ Late February, 2015

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Virginia House OKs Transporting Loaded Shotguns

By Ashley Jordan Capital News Service RICHMOND â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Virginians who have a concealed handgun permit could legally transport loaded shotguns in vehicles under a bill that passed the House of Delegates on a split vote Thursday.

Delegates voted 62-34 in favor of Senate Bill 1137, which would exempt concealed carry permit holders from local ordinances that bar the transportation of loaded shotguns or rifles. Republicans generally favored the measure, while Democrats opposed it.

State law now says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The governing body of any county or city may by ordinance make it unlawful for any person to transport, possess or carry a loaded shotgun or loaded rifle in any vehicle on any public street, road, or highway within such locality. Any violation of such ordinance shall be punishable by a fine of not more than $100.â&#x20AC;?

Existing law exempts law enforcement officers, military personnel and â&#x20AC;&#x153;any person who reasonably believes that a loaded rifle or shotgun is nec-

essary for his personal safety in the course of his employment or business.â&#x20AC;?

SB 1137, introduced by Republican Sen. Thomas A. Garrett of Hadensville, would add, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The provisions of this section shall also not apply to lawful concealed carry permit holders.â&#x20AC;? The bill cleared the Senate on a 25-13 vote on Feb. 2.

Supporters of the legislation said it would be beneficial to hunters who

might want to travel from one site to another with their rifles pre-loaded.

Opponents, like Democratic Del. Scott A. Surovell of Mount Vernon, said the bill is potentially dangerous.

During Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House session, Surovell said the legislation conflicts with safety advice from gun manufacturers and the National Rifle Association.

He said loaded shotguns on the road could be problematic in high

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traffic areas like Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads. He cited several occurrences in which loaded shotguns were used in road rage incidents around the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are legislating a policy here that the manufacturers disagree (with), that our hunter education courses disagree with, that has been proven to cause altercations and death in traffic situations,â&#x20AC;? Surovell said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just bad policy, and we are basically legislating people to do something other than we teach them.â&#x20AC;?

Kevin Carroll, president of the Virginia State Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, also opposed the bill.

He said that for him, the issue was not about guns in traffic but about a localityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right to set policy.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The localities should have an opportunity to pass an ordinance as to whether or not they feel it is appropriate,â&#x20AC;? Carroll said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are the ones who are issuing the concealed weapons permits. They should be the ones to determine whether or not they feel itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appropriate.â&#x20AC;?

Carroll said loaded long guns in vehicles represent a threat to officersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; safety. He referred to an incident in which a rifle accidentally went off and shot a state trooper while he was assisting a vehicle in an accident. The loaded rifle was jostled during the crash and went off, killing the officer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a safety issue for the public,â&#x20AC;? Carroll said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a safety issue for the law enforcement officers.

And we think the law is fine the way it is and should say the way it is.â&#x20AC;?

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Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 31

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 Walmart, Virginia’s 2nd Largest Employer, Ups Wages

By Matt Leonard Capital News Service Walmart will soon increase the minimum wage for thousands of its employees, the company announced Thursday. The retail giant is Virginia’s second-largest employer, according to the Virginia Employment Commission.

Beginning this spring, 500,000 Walmart employees can expect to make $9 an hour. In 2016, that figure will jump to $10 an hour. To give employees a chance to move up the ladder, department manager positions will have a minimum wage of $13 per hour this year and $15 next.

This news comes after Virginia legislators this session considered and rejected six bills to increase the state’s minimum wage. As a result, the minimum wage in Virginia stays

at $7.25 an hour, the level specified by federal law.

Walmart’s announcement came in its quarterly earnings report, which showed good news for the company: $1.61 earnings per share.

In an analysis of the decision for The New York Times features called “The Upshot,” Neil Irwin, a senior economics correspondent for the newspaper, suggested that Walmart boosted its pay as a smart business decision, not “for a squishy sense of do-gooderism.” As the U.S. unemployment rate falls, businesses may have trouble attracting and retaining employees.

“Finding qualified workers is harder for employers now than it was then, and their workers are at risk of jumping ship if they don’t receive pay

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increases or other improvements,” Irwin wrote.

Assembly Extends Coal Tax Credit

By Janeal Downs Capital News Service RICHMOND – To the delight of lawmakers from Southwest Virginia, the General Assembly has passed legislation to extend a tax credit that encourages electric companies to use coal mined in the state.

The House of Delegates voted 6631 Wednesday in favor of extending the Virginia Coal Employment and Production Incentive Tax Credit.

Republicans voted overwhelmingly

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for the measure while Democrats opposed it.

If signed into law by Gov. Terry McAuliffe, the tax credit would remain at $3 per ton of coal and would be in effect until Jan. 1, 2019.

Del. Terry G. Kilgore, R-Scott County, said the legislation would preserve 470 coal jobs. He said miners make an average of more than $75,000 a year.

“Times are extremely difficult for our coal miners and families in Southwestern Virginia,” Kilgore said in a press release. “This legislation will keep hardworking Virginians employed with good-paying jobs.”

Approved more than 15 years ago in response to job losses in the coalfields of Southwest Virginia, the coal tax credit provides an incentive for electric utilities to burn Virginia coal.

It gives them a tax credit of $3 for every ton of coal they use. The tax credit is currently scheduled to expire on Jan. 1, 2017.

The legislation at issue was Senate Bill 1161. As originally proposed by Sen. Charles J. Colgan, D-Manassas, the bill sought to reduce the tax credit from $3 per ton to $2, and it left the credit’s expiration date untouched.

That version of the bill passed the Senate on Feb. 5.

However, the bill was amended Monday in the House Finance Committee to move the expiration date to Jan. 1, 2019. The committee also decided to leave the tax credit at $3 per ton of coal.

Republicans further amended the bill to limit the total tax credits awarded in any year to $7.5 million.

This amount was suggested by Dominion, owner of Virginia Power, the state’s biggest electric utility, with support from the Virginia Coal & Energy Alliance.

The amended version of SB 1161 is

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what the House passed on Wednesday. The Senate then agreed to the changes.

Both chambers also passed Kilgore’s companion bill – HB 1879.

Originally, it lowered the tax credit to $2 per ton and extended the expiration date to 2022. However, the House bill had been amended to leave the tax credit at $3 per ton, extend the credit until 2019 and limit total tax credits to $7.5 million.

On Wednesday, the Senate voted 24-14 and the House voted 62-30 in favor of this amended version of HB 1879.

McAuliffe and other Democrats wanted to reduce and eventually end the coal tax credit because the state’s budget is stretched thin. Critics also say the tax credit has been ineffective.

Del. Todd E. Pillion, R-Abingdon, touted his support for extending the tax credit, and he took a swipe at McAuliffe.

“I don’t believe in kicking someone when that person is down, but apparently Gov. McAuliffe does,” Pillion said Wednesday in a press release. “I continue to stand with the members of the Southwest delegation as we work to fend off attacks by the administration on the Southwest Virginia coal industry.”

How They Voted Here is how the House voted Wednesday on SB 1161 (“Coal tax; limits amount of credit that may be claimed for coal employment and production incentive”).

Floor: 02/18/15 House: VOTE: PASSAGE (66-Y 31-N 1-A) YEAS – Adams, Albo, Anderson, Austin, Bell, Richard P., Bell, Robert B., Berg, Bloxom, Byron, Campbell, Cline, Cole, Cox, Davis, DeSteph, Edmunds, Fariss, Fowler, Garrett, Gilbert, Greason, Habeeb, Head, Helsel, Hodges, Hugo, Ingram, James, Joannou, Jones, Kilgore, Knight, Landes, LaRock, Leftwich, Lingamfelter, Loupassi, Marshall, D.W., Marshall, R.G., Massie, Miller, Minchew, Morefield, Morris, O’Bannon, O’Quinn, Peace, Pillion, Pogge, Poindexter, Ramadan, Ransone, Robinson, Rush, Rust, Scott, Stolle, Taylor, Villanueva, Ware, Webert, Wilt, Wright, Yancey, Yost, Mr. Speaker – 66.

NAYS – BaCote, Bulova, Carr, Filler-Corn, Futrell, Herring, Hester, Hope, Keam, Kory, Krupicka, LeMunyon, Lindsey, Lopez, Mason, McClellan, McQuinn, Morrissey, Murphy, Plum, Preston, Rasoul, Sickles, Simon, Spruill, Sullivan, Surovell, Toscano, Tyler, Ward, Watts – 31.

ABSTENTIONS – Farrell – 1.

NOT VOTING – Orrock, Torian – 2.

Delegate Torian was recorded as not voting. Intended to vote yea.

Page 32 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 or Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707

Virginia Assembly Blocks Access to Handgun Permits

By Lyndsey Raynor Capital News Service RICHMOND – It is now up to Gov. Terry McAuliffe whether to sign into law legislation that would prohibit certain out-of-state police agencies from accessing information regarding concealed weapon permits issued by the commonwealth of Virginia.

The House of Delegates gave final approval Tuesday to the measure, Senate Bill 948. The vote was 66-33, with Republicans supporting the bill

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

and Democrats opposing it. SB 948 now advances to McAuliffe for consideration.

If signed into law, states like Maryland would not have access to concealed weapon permit data from the Virginia Criminal Information Network. Maryland does not recognize concealed handgun permits issued

by Virginia.

Del. Marcus Simon, D-Falls Church, spoke against the bill during Tuesday’s session. He said the measure would be dangerous for in-state and out-of-state law enforcement.

“This causes problems for law enforcement because law enforcement wants to have instant access to accurate information about the presence or possible presence of firearms in vehicles when they do traffic stops and when they arrest folks,” Simon said.

“To the extent that we are telling folks in states that don’t have reciprocity that we are withholding that information from you, we’re inviting them to do the same thing to us.”

Del. Bob Marshall, R-Prince William, suggested that if states like Maryland would cooperate with Virginia, their police officers would be a lot safer.

“It’s the policy of entrapment that has been used based on the concealed carry exchange information that has precipitated this,” Marshall said.

The bill comes after gun owners in Virginia and other states expressed concerns about being targeted by Maryland State Police.

day on SB 948 (“Concealed handgun permits; sharing of information”).

Floor: 02/17/15 House: VOTE: PASSAGE (66-Y 33-N) YEAS – Adams, Albo, Anderson, Austin, Bell, Richard P., Bell, Rob-

ert B., Berg, Bloxom, Byron, Campbell, Cline, Cole, Cox, DeSteph, Edmunds, Fariss, Farrell, Fowler, Garrett, Greason, Habeeb, Head, Helsel, Hodges, Hugo, Ingram, Joannou, Jones, Kilgore, Knight, Landes,

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WCDS students donate Winter Outerwear for the Homeless

Jacob Backo Wins R-MA Middle School Geographic Bee

Jacob Backo takes R-MA Geographic Bee competition

From left to right, Anna Clarke, Megyn Kelly, Rebecca Paulisch and Monica Marciano deliver several bags of donated outerwear to Coalition for the Homeless in Washington, DC. Students at WCDS recently sponsored a Coat Drive at the school in order to help out a homeless shelter in Washington, DC. The shelter, Coalition for the Homeless, Inc. welcomed the donated items.

Monica Marciano, the Drive’s sponsor, organized the effort at the school. The Wakefield Country

Day School students donated close to 100 cold-weather clothing items that will help people stay warm as winter continues.

Thirty-eight coats and jackets were collected, along with 24 pairs of gloves and mittens, 23 hats and numerous scarves. Marciano, along with Anna Clarke, Megyn Kelly

and Rebecca Paulisch delivered the donated items on Monday, February 9th. They were driven by Mrs. Youngquist, a teacher and faculty advisor at WCDS. Monica Marciano independently led the drive as part of her character education that is an integral part of the WCDS Classical Education.

The Randolph-Macon Academy Middle School conducted its fourth annual National Geographic Bee school contest on February 2, 2015. After nearly an hour of questions, sixth grade student Michael Ferguson of Arlington finished in third place, eighth grade student Ian Mounts of Ashland finished in second place, and eighth grade student Jacob Backo of Warrenton finished as the 2015 School Champion.

According to the National Geographic web site (http://bit.ly/NGspellingbee), “Each year thousands

of schools in the United States participate in the National Geographic Bee using materials prepared by the National Geographic Society.

The contest is designed to encourage teachers to include geography in their classrooms, spark student interest in the subject, and increase public awareness about geography.

Schools with students in grades four through eight are eligible for this entertaining and challenging test of geographic knowledge.”

Backo has taken the written state qualifying test in the hopes of moving forward in the competition.

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 33

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 LaRock, Leftwich, LeMunyon, Lindsey, Lingamfelter, Loupassi, Marshall, D.W., Marshall, R.G., Massie, Miller, Minchew, Morefield, Morris, O’Bannon, O’Quinn, Orrock, Peace, Pillion, Pogge, Poindexter, Ramadan, Ransone, Robinson, Rush, Scott, Stolle, Taylor, Villanueva, Ware, Webert, Wilt, Wright, Yancey, Yost, Mr. Speaker – 66.

NAYS – BaCote, Bulova, Carr, Davis, Filler-Corn, Futrell, Herring, Hester, Hope, James, Keam, Kory, Krupicka, Lopez, Mason, McClellan, McQuinn, Morrissey, Murphy, Plum, Preston, Rasoul, Rust, Sickles, Simon, Spruill, Sullivan, Surovell, Torian, Toscano, Tyler, Ward, Watts – 33.

NOT VOTING – Gilbert – 1.

House Kills AntiGerrymandering Bill

By Cameron Vigliano Capital News Service RICHMOND – A bill aimed at taking some of the politics out of redistricting was struck down by a House subcommittee early Thursday morning.

Senate Bill 840, introduced by Sen. John Watkins, R-Midlothian, would have provided criteria for the General Assembly to follow in redrawing congressional and legislative districts. The bill generally would have

prohibited legislators from using political data or election results in redistricting.

“It’s sort of common sense, with logical regard to how we redistrict,” Watkins said. “I’ve been through four redistricting, and I’ve seen how technology has changed our point of view to how we draw those boundaries.”

Watkins’ bill passed the Senate unanimously on Feb. 2. It then was sent to the House and assigned to the House Committee on Privileges and Elections. The committee’s Elections Subcommittee took up the bill during a meeting that began at 7:30 a.m.

Although the Elections Subcommittee has a Republican majority, Watkins’ colleagues voted 4-3 to table his bill.

Virginia Del. Mark Cole, R-Fredericksburg, suggested that SB 840 be shelved.

He said there is no need to establish redistricting criteria because federal guidelines are already in place.

“I don’t care what criteria you use; it’s going to be impossible to draw a competitive district,” Cole said. “The problem isn’t where the district lines are. The problem is, I see a polarization within the population – not just in Virginia but across the country.”

SB 840 had endorsements from several groups, including the League of Women Voters, the AARP, the Virginia Education Association, the Virginia Municipal League, One Virginia 2021 and the Virginia Poverty Law Center. No one spoke in opposition to the bill.

HOPE dogs like Becky provide comfort to crisis victims

Becky protégé Macey

Becky the HOPE dog with her handler Diana Lieber. – Courtesy Photos Diana Lieber

By Malcolm Barr Sr. Warren County Report Becky is a 10-year-old black Labrador retriever, unique to Front Royal, a “comfort” dog for disaster survivors anywhere in the nation.

This quiet, soft-eyed beauty was introduced by Diana Lieber to a Front Royal Rotary Club audience Feb. 13, prepared to be anyone’s Valentine the day before St. Valentine’s Day! She cozied up to Rotarians during Diana’s speech.

Becky and Diana represent “HOPE

- Animal-Assisted Crisis Response.”

Becky is meticulously trained to comfort those affected by natural (think hurricanes) or man-made (think 9/11) disasters. She is available on-call 24/7.

HOPE came to national attention during 9/11 along with other canines used at the World Trade Center. Except Becky and the dogs like her weren’t trained for seeking out the dead or helping rescue the living; as explained by Diana, a military (USAF) veteran who also worked with drug sniffing dogs for U.S. Cus-

toms, Becky and her ilk bring comfort to individuals most affected in crisis situations. Her gentleness relieves stress, decreases blood pressure, brings a certain peace to those who need it.

There are 200 HOPE teams in the country. Becky, now up in dog years, is the only HOPE animal situated in Warren County. She is understudied by Macey, a 3-year-old boxer/ pit mix, also female, and adopted from the Front Royal animal shelter.

Diana, 40 years in the business, is training Macey for the time Becky retires.

You’ll often see dogs like Becky turn up at such tragedies as house fires, school shootings, any event that lays bare human emotions, offering comfort and a soft nose to those in need.

“It takes an exceptional dog to respond to human emotions the way HOPE dogs do,” Diana said, noting that applicants for such training must be ‘non jumpers, non lickers’, be gentle and polite in any environment, and have had a minimum of one year of experience as a therapy dog. That’s the way Macey is headed, starting with visits to assisted living facilities in Front Royal.

HOPE is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization headquartered in Eugene, OR. For further information on HOPE, you may contact Diana Lieber, who lives in Front Royal, through her email address: dianali@ aol.com. She will tell you that almost any breed of dog can be a candidate for HOPE but standards are high and applications can be lengthy.

The General Assembly redraws political boundaries every 10 years, using data from the decennial census.

Historically, legislators have redrawn district lines for partisan advantages. In 1991, the Democrats redrew districts to their favor. Ten years later, Republicans did the same thing. The result is that many districts are either heavily Republican or heavily Democratic; because of lack of competition, incumbents often run unopposed.

Watkins’ bill sought to establish criteria for redistricting: • “Existing political boundaries shall be respected to the maximum extent possible.” That means the General Assembly should try to avoid splitting cities or counties when it draws congressional and legislative districts. “ • Legislative and congressional districts should be based on population, which each district being “substantially equal to each other.”

• Districts should be compact and composed of contiguous territory – not oddly shaped. The manipulation of district lines is often called gerrymandering, from when a Massachusetts politician named Elbridge Gerry drew a district that supposedly resembled a salamander.

• Districts shall be drawn in compliance with federal and state law, judicial decisions and the amended federal Voting Rights Act of 1965.

• Consideration to drawing lines could be given to communities and neighborhoods that share common interests or needs in transportation, employment or culture.

An especially important passage in SB 840 was: “The General Assembly shall not include political data or election results as part of a redistricting database, and no district shall be drawn using political data or election results in order to favor a political party or incumbent legislator. This prohibition includes using addresses of incumbent legislators, political affiliations of voters, and previous election results.”

Under the bill, political data could be used only if need “to determine if racial or ethnic minorities can elect candidates of their choice.”

A similar piece of legislation also was on the Elections Subcommittee’s docket.

A resolution introduced by Sen. Jill Vogel, R-Winchester, called for creating an independent commission to redraw congressional and legislative districts. The commission would follow the criteria described in SB 840.

Vogel’s resolution was passed by for the day.

Winchester Area Sales Manager Needed. Email:

dan@AreaGuides.com

Page 34 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

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Virginia

Senate bill would expunge past marijuana offenses

By Anjali Shastry and Katelyn Newman Capital News Service

ANNAPOLIS -- A bill to remove convictions for marijuana use or possession of less than 10 grams from criminal records received a lukewarm response from the Maryland Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee Thursday.

Sponsored by Senator Brian Feldman, D-Montgomery, the bill aims to help people who were convicted for using or possessing marijuana before it was decriminalized on Oct. 1. Now that it is no longer a crime, Feldman said, these records should be expunged.

“We shouldn’t have folks, particularly younger folks, prejudiced,” Feldman said. “This is real-world stuff and it just seems incongruent to have on the books prospectively that this is no longer a crime and yet have thousands of young Marylanders hampered with this criminal record.”

If the bill passes, there will be both revenue for and costs to the state as people pay to get their records cleaned and the courts pay employees to go through the requests, but exact costs are not available, Feldman said.

Because law enforcement officers did not take into account how much marijuana was on the person arrested before the 10-gram decriminalization bill passed last year, Feldman said, they do not know how many people would be affected by his bill’s passing.

Feldman acknowledged law enforcement concerns that removing these marijuana convictions from records would take away necessary background information for firearms checks, among other things.

“I’d be willing to offer an amendment to shift it from an outright

expunging all records to shielding,” Feldman said. By shielding instead of expunging records, Feldman said, law enforcement officials would still have access to to the records, but employers would not.

The bill would assist people who have marijuana convictions on their record with finding employment, education, scholarships and housing, he said.

The Maryland Chiefs of Police Association in written testimony said they oppose Feldman’s bill.

“It could interfere with the necessary access to prior criminal information,” the association said. “In some instances, this could be a safety factor for law enforcement personnel in carrying out their official duties.”

The association members said they think input from the judiciary, prosecutors and law enforcement would enable all stakeholders to address the situation without affecting public safety.

on marijuana sales and creating a revenue stream for the state. Senator Bobby Zirkin, D-Baltimore County, is sponsoring two of the bills -- one related to the possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and one related to medical marijuana.

At press time, the committee was still hearing four other bills on expunging records, one filed by Raskin, two by Sen. C. Anthony Muse, DPrince George’s, and one filed by Senator Lisa Gladden, D-Baltimore.

Lorraine Mossburg is January Employee of the Month

From left are Frederick County BOS Chairman Richard Shickle, Mrs. Mossburg, and Supervisor Robert Hess Lorraine Mossburg was awarded Employee of the Month for January for acquainting herself with all Commissioner of the Revenue division processes which has enabled her to know information she provides to the public first-hand.

Lorraine takes on much responsibility by concentrating on assisting taxpayers with specific questions and processing the information in a concise, uniform manner to accommodate the taxpayer in a timely manner. She works tirelessly

blown onto nearby soil and vegetation. Why is this bad for the trees?

With the recent storms, I’ve no- Well, I can get real technical with ticed the roads have been treated all the chemical reaction stuff, but I with salt and chemicals to make wasn’t too good in that area in squirdriving safer, but I heard some- rel school. A simple way of explainwhere that this is very bad for trees. ing it is to try to remember when What do you think? you have eaten real salty popcorn – Eddy at the movie theater. Your lips get all puckered and dry because the Hi Eddy, salt draws the moisture from your lips. This is exactly what happens You heard correctly! Do you know to the trees. The high concentration that in an average winter, more than of salt literally draws the water from ten million tons of salt is spread on the root system. Sometimes the our streets in the United States? symptoms of this will be a scorched Unfortunately, the salt does not stay look on leaves, or with evergreen on the streets, but gets washed or trees, browned needles on the side Dear Stewart:

Ask Stewart

Rachelle Yeung, the Maryland political director of the Marijuana Policy Project, said she supports Feldman’s bill.

“Unfortunately, everyone who was arrested prior to October 1st, including and up to September 30th, won’t have the same opportunities that people after October 1st will,” Yeung said. “We support this bill because it puts people who have been charged with low-level marijuana possession in the past on the same footing as their peers moving forward.”

Feldman’s bill is cross-filed in the House, in a measure sponsored by Delegate Aruna Miller, D-Montgomery.

Three other bills specifically involving the use and possession of marijuana have been introduced in the Senate this legislative session. Senator Jamie Raskin, D-Montgomery, is sponsoring a bill to fully legalize marijuana, in the style of Colorado’s law, taking away certain restrictions

of the tree closest to the road.

What can you do to avoid this kind of damage? If the road or sidewalk has been salted, try to avoid piling the snow or ice around the tree’s root system. Better yet, look for safer alternatives to rock salt, such as “calcium magnesium acetate” (CMA) or even materials like sand or kitty litter.. If your trees have been subjected to winter salt damage, you can try to leach the salt out of the soil by a very good watering in the early spring months. Please pass these words on to your neighbors!

- Stewart

to inspire offices to participate in programs that raise money for community efforts. Her creativity is enjoyed by all. Lorraine is approachable and enthusiastic about her role in the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office which makes for a learning and productive atmosphere. She is thorough and an excellent resource for co-workers to discuss new ideas. She continues to search for creative ways to keep information fresh and informative.

Congratulations!

The Front Royal/Warren County Tree Steward program began in 1997 with volunteers dedicated to improving the health of trees by providing educational programs, tree planting and care demonstrations, and tree maintenance throughout the community.

The group now consists of over 30 active members with several interns working toward becoming certified tree stewards from our annual “All About Trees Class”. Each month Stewart will answer a question from our readers. Please forward it to “Stewart” in care of: frwctreestewards@comcast.net and we may publish it in a future issue. Please visit our website at:

www.treesfrontroyal.org

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Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 35

Winchester-Frederick Diversions

Call in a tip on a crime and you may Receive a reward of up to $1,000 *You will remain anonymous* www.crimesolvers.us

540-665-TIPS

CRIME OF THE WEEK

Frederick County Crime of the Week - February 16, 2015 The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a burglary and grand larceny in the 100 block of Nightingale Avenue on January 30, 2015. The victim reported that when he returned home from work he noticed his Sony PlayStation 4 was missing from its usual location. He checked throughout the residence and was unable to locate the game system or the remote control. Both items are black in color. While searching for the game system, he discovered that two video games were also missing.

If you have any information regarding a suspect or suspect vehicle in this incident, please contact the Crime Solvers Hotline at (540) 665TIPS (8477). Information leading to the arrest of a suspect may result in a reward of up to $1,000. Incident #15000525 Investigator Jared C. Nail Winchester Crime of the Week - February 9, 2015 The Winchester Police Department is investigating several incidents of breaking and entering and grand larceny that occurred at All Points Self Storage in the 3000 block of Shawnee Drive. The incidents occurred between January 10 and January 11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 10:30 a.m. Items stolen from storage units include: a Honda dirt bike, a Vizio television, a Gibson acoustic guitar, a Fender Telecaster guitar, and 2 guitar amps.

If you have any information regarding a suspect or suspects in this case, please contact the Crime Solvers Hotline at (540) 665-TIPS (8477). Information leading to the arrest of a suspect may result in a reward of up to $1,000. You can remain anonymous! Detective J.D. Dixon, incident #15001118

WPD Offers Secure Location for Craigslist Sales The Winchester Police Department is welcoming local residents to use the lobby or front parking lot of the Timbrook Public Safety Center as a place to complete in-person Craigslist sales. The police department wants to give people a safe and secure option when completing these transactions. On Monday the police department received a report of counterfeit money being passed in exchange for a gaming system sold on Craigslist. The victim met the suspect in the 500 block of South Cameron Street to complete the transaction. The male suspect gave the victim six $50 bills that were counterfeit and all had the same serial numbers. The suspect is described as a black male, around 18 to 19 years-old and was wearing a black hoodie and red beanie.

Anyone with information on a suspect in this case is asked call the Crime Solvers HOTLINE at 540-665-TIPS. Individuals who are able to provide information that leads to an arrest in this case could be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000

Page 36 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

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Virginia

House kills bill to legalize selling switchblades

By Michael Melkonian Capital News Service

held weapons including brass knuckles, “oriental darts” and blackjacks.

The bill, introduced by Sen. Tom Garrett, R-Louisa, originally passed the House of Delegates on Tuesday by a vote of 56-42 and appeared to be on its way to Gov. Terry McAuliffe. But in a surprise turn of events, the vote was reconsidered Wednesday, and the House overwhelmingly voted down the bill, 17-83.

Some delegates seemed to be under the impression on Tuesday that the bill was for antique items and collectors, making it a more passable piece of legislation.

RICHMOND – Any Virginians using this week’s snow days to start planning a “Warriors”-style gang – complete with throwing stars and switchblades – must now put the jean jacket back in the closet and go back to the drawing board.

On Wednesday, the House of Delegates reversed itself and killed a controversial but virally popular bill – SB 1130, which would have repealed the state’s ban on the sale of (or possession with intent to sell) novelty hand-

New Beginnings Community Greetings “Introducing Your Business to New Homeowners in our Community”

***

P.O. Box 1025 Front Royal, VA 22630 540 635-8660

Possession of these items is currently a Class 4 misdemeanor while handguns can be carried openly in most public places in the commonwealth without a permit or license.

On February 6-7, 2015 Lord Fairfax Community College’s (LFCC) Forensics students participated in a speech/debate tournament at Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA. LFCC placed first out of the six colleges attending. This list below depicts awards won by the students:

• Parliamentary Debate Speaker 1st - John Riggs • Parliamentary Debate 4th - Sunny Moore and Bekah Pennington: 6th - John Riggs and Andrea Groves • Informative Speaking 4th - John Riggs • Poetry 1st - Kelsey Owens 4th -

AUTOS

RENTALS

2013 Toyota Corolla for sale, 4-cyl, dohc 16 valve, 4sp-auto, AM/FM/CD/Bluetooth, Magnet grey/bl int., 16” spoke alloy wheels, $15,000/Neg. 540-636-0490 or 540-6310539 leave message

110 N. Massanutten Street, Strasburg, Va. Commerical space. $750 per side. Call 202302-9129

1994 Chevrolet Van, 3/4 ton high top conversion. 350 V8. Runs Great $1000 Call 540459-1748

Temporary Housing, Front Royal, Mountain Lodge, furnished, 2BR,2BA, Avail.Dec.10, $2,400/mo. Includes all utilities/maid. Call 703-860-2711 MISCELLANEOUS

1981 C30 1 ton Dually 350ci 4sp 75220 org miles, mechanics bed & top, runs needs some work--540-660-2913 EMPLOYMENT

Call Gary

540-636-9875 and 540-683-1045

LFCC Forensics Team places 1st at Wilkes University Tournament

Pictured left to right: Colt Scott (Strasburg), Sunny Moore (Linden), Zack Almquist (Mt. Jackson), Kelsey Owens (Clear Brook), Tiffany Riggs (Fort Valley), Bekah Pennington (Front Royal), John Riggs (Edinburg), Michael Weimer (Winchester), and Andrea Groves (Front Royal).

Classifieds

Andrea Groves • Prose 1st - Zack Almquist 2nd Colt Scott 3rd - Andrea Groves 4th - Sunny Moore 6th - John Riggs • After Dinner Speaking 2nd - Kelsey Owens 3rd - Bekah Pennington • Impromptu Speaking 2nd - Colt Scott 4th - Michael Weimer 5th Kelsey Owens • Communication Analysis 3rd Bekah Pennington • Duo 2nd - Tiffany Riggs and Michael Weimer 3rd - Colt Scott and Zack Almquist 4th - Andrea Groves and Sunny Moore 5th - Kelsey Owens and Bekah Pennington • Extemporaneous Speaking 1st John Riggs • Single Dramatic Interpretation 1st - Zack Almquist 3rd - Andrea Groves 4th - Sunny Moore 5th Bekah Pennington • Pentathlon (competitors competing in 5+ events) 1st - Bekah Pennington 2nd - Sunny Moore 3rd - John Riggs 4th - Kelsey Owens Team Sweeps 1st - LORD FAIRFAX COMMUNITY COLLEGE! For more information about the team, contact Professor Andrea Ludwick, at aludwick@lfcc.edu or 540-868-7194.

Current Job Openings. Contact the VEC for additional information at 540-722-3420 or 540-535-2875 or Winchester@vec.virginia. gov. Please enter “Employer Services” in the subject line and job number and title when you inquire about the position: Job Number / Title 531176 / FT Security Officer - Winchester VA 531332 / Catalog Scan Clerk 531335 / Certified First Assistant (CFA) 531338 / Corporate Accountant 530886 / Controller 530908 / Package Handler Part Time 530562 / Material Handler 1 530618 / Store Manager-Stephens City 530675 / Production Associate 530683 / Full Time Dockworker 530319 / Regional Intermodal Truck Driver - Home Weekly 529834 / Operations Supervisor 529902 / Mailroom/Clerical 529909 / Cleaner, Industrial 529987 / Cleaner, Industrial JOB FAIR AT THE VEC, WINCHESTER OFFICE 100 PREMIER PLACE, 540 535-2875 Tuesday, 24 February 2015 Wednesday, 25 February 2015 Tuesday, 10 March 2015 Wednesday, 11 March 2015 10:00am-2:00pm Entry level Retail Clerks, Cashiers, Warehouse Supervisor $8.25-10.25ph Bring Resume Please ensure you are registered on the Virginia Workforce Connection (www.vawc.virginia.gov) prior to the job fair Sales Manager needed for Winchester/Frederick County area. dan@AreaGuides.com Sales representatives needed for Winchester/Frederick County area. Contact dan@AreaGuides.com Looking for Nail Tech Instructor/ Nail Tech willing to teach. For more info.. visit Star Beauty School Tuesday-Friday 10 am to 6 pm at 2263 Valor Dr. Winchester, VA.

Winchester Area Advertising Sales Manager Needed Email:

dan@AreaGuides.com

Masonic ring with two .4 caret diamonds, ruby with mason emblem. 14k gold. Appraises at over $7,000. Asking $4000.00.

Call 540-662-9023 Woodcarver tools/supply sale: supply of wood, design and project books, sharpening stones, glove, misc. knives and other items (many new and unused). Total of $850+ original cost; sell 4 $400. Contact: 540868-2623 Mercury outboards; 20 hp $800.00, 10 hp $500.00, Prentice vise “old 108” 6” jaws $1000.00, Helen Jean Smith 1987 framed Edinburg print $400.00, John J Pershing 1927 signed photo to General Passaga $1600.00, Antique Oak Ice box, 3 door org wheels $1200.00; Aluminum Light Poles 12’ tall x 4” od, square anchor, call 540-6602913 Honeywell R22 tank with about 25 to 27 lbs of freon left. Only used to charge one heat pump. Will sell remaining for $325, price is negotiable. Call 540-671-8707. Located in Front Royal.

Cookie Jars, Aunt Jamima and others, assorted prices. Old wicker baby stroller, $100.

Big ceramic owl, $50.00. Canning jars $4 each. Old Schwinn girls bicycle, $50 and need tires.

Long Time Collections for sale: Carnival Glass, Pottery; E. Texas, Roseville, Depression glass (green and pink), Jewelry from the 50’s and forward. Call 540-635-1612

Your business listed here.

6 lines only $35.00 for 4 weeks. Ad pre-payment required.

Email: classifieds@fredcoreport.com

or call Angie

at 540-671-8707

Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 37

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Death notices

Wilhelmine Eva Fichna Smith, 89, of Frederick County, Virginia, died Monday, February 16, 2015, at Winchester Medical Center. Memorial contributions may be made to Burnt Presbyterian Church, 168 Burnt Church Road, Winchester, Virginia, 22603.

Effie (Pringos) Levathes, 96, of Frederick Co., VA, died Monday, February 16, 2015, at the Village at Orchard Ridge in Winchester, Virginia. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in memory of Effie may be made to the Alzheimer’s Disease Assoc. P.O. Box 96011 Washington, D.C. 20090-6011.

Viola “Sug” Orndorff: It is with their deepest sorrow that her family announces that their beloved wife, mother and grandmother has been called away to be with the Lord. Memorial donations may be made to Winchester Wesleyan Church, 2930 Papermill Road, Winchester, VA 22601.

Hazel DeHaven Mason, 88, of Winchester, Virginia, died Thursday, February 12, 2015, at Winchester Medical Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to Winchester Day Preschool, 133 Lincoln Street, Winchester, Virginia, 22601, CCAP 112 South Kent Street, Winchester, Virginia, 22601 or Braddock Street United Methodist Church, 115 Wolfe Street, Winchester, VA 22601.

James Wallace “Red” Hicks, 68, of Winchester died Wednesday, February 11, 2015 in his residence.

He was born June 5, 1946 in Waldorf, MD the son of William Asa and Rachel Howlett Hicks.

He was an avid race fan and regularly attended Winchester Speedway Gene Robert Nicholson, 62, of Stephenson, VA went to be with his Lord and Savior Monday, February 9, 2015 in Blue Ridge Hospice Inpatient Care Center. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 West Cork Street Winchester, VA 22601.

Thomas Alan “Tom” Louthan, age 67, of Winchester, died February 9, 2015, in Winchester Medical Center. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Endowment Fund of the Shenandoah Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, 107 Youth Development Court, Winchester, Virginia 22602; or to the Building Fund of the Top of Virginia (formerly Winchester-Frederick County) Chapter of the American Red Cross 561 Fortress Drive, Winchester, Virginia 22603 William Edward “Ed” Blye, II, 54, of Winchester, VA passed away on Friday, February 13, 2015 at his home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W Cork Street, Winchester, VA. 22601 George Washington “Pop-Pop” Dyer, 69, of Winchester died Thursday, February 12, 2015 at his residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W. Cork St. Winchester, VA 22601.

Diversions Security

Advice After a Data Breach Compromises Your Identity Better Business Bureau reacts to Anthem Insurance online hack Tens of millions of Americans could be victims of the latest corporate data breach, this one at Anthem Insurance. Unknown hackers apparently stole personal identifying information (PII) from current and former Anthem customers, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and other information that can be used for identity theft.

Anthem has set up a separate website with information on the breach, but the Better Business Bureau serving Metro Washington DC and Eastern PA recommends that consumers always go to a company’s main website first and follow links from there. Scam-

mers often take advantage of data breaches and subsequent confusion to set up spoof websites and send phishing emails.

The BBB offers the following suggestions for consumers concerned that their PII has been stolen:

strike by freezing your credit reports. This will not impact existing credit cards and financial accounts, but will create a roadblock for thieves seeking to create fraudulent accounts using your personal information.

1. Do not take a “wait and see” approach as you may have done with breaches involving credit card data. You must act quickly.

Breaches involving Social Security numbers have the potential to be far more detrimental to victims, and the damage can be difficult to repair.

3. At a minimum, if you know your Social Security number has been compromised, place a fraud alert on your credit reports.

While less effective than a freeze, this will provide an extra layer of protection. Click here to learn more about security freezes and fraud alerts.

2. Consider taking a preemptive

4. Take advantage of the free credit monitoring services Anthem will be offering to breach victims.

While this is not a preventative measure, this will alert you to new accounts or inquiries using your Social Security number so that you can act quickly to repair the damage.

5. Vigilance is key. Regularly check your credit reports at annualcreditreport.com for unauthorized charges or other signs of fraud.

(NOTE: This is the only free credit report option authorized by the Federal Trade Commission.)

6. For more information and complete step-by-step guidance on repairing the damage caused by identity theft, visit the FTC’s identity theft resources.

7. Expect that scammers will take advantage of this data breach to send out phishing emails and other messages that appear to be from Anthem, a credit bureau or other legitimate companies. Do not click on links from any email, text or social media messages about this or any other data breach.

For all businesses that collect customer information: • Make sure you protect your customers’ data. If a data breach can happen to a major corporation with significant data security measures in place, it can happen to any business.

• Check out BBB’s updated online guide Data Security – Made Simpler for free information on how to create a data security plan.

For more information about scams, check out BBB Scam Stopper. Sign up to receive weekly Scam Alerts to hear about the latest scams.

NOTE: According to its BBB Business Review, Anthem Inc. also operates as Wellpoint, Inc., Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, and Administar Federal, Inc. However, not all Blue Cross & Blue Shield companies are part of the Anthem network. If you aren’t sure if your insurer is affected by this data breach, call the number on the back of your card or go directly to your insurer’s website.

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Airplane Rides Year-round!

20 Minute Scenic Flights - $65 Per Person GIFT CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE, Intro Flight Training $99,

See Gliders every weekend!

• Group Discount • Flight Training • Aircraft Rentals • Photo Flights

• Glider Club • Charter Flights • New Hangars • Tie Down Avail. *LIW &HUWLÀFDWHV • New Taxiway

– From a release

Spay Today Need to get your cat or dog spayed or neutered?

Contact Spay Today, our area’s non-profit, reduced-price spay and neuter program. At the time of surgery, initial shots and tests can also be obtained at lower rates.

Chose from MANY vets over a WIDE area!

NEW vets added!

Contact Spay Today: www.baacs.org or call 304-728-8330

Page 38 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 or Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707

Calendar Friday, February 20 Forecast 21° | 10° Saturday, February 21 Forecast 35° | 31° 4pm – 7pm Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction. Front Royal Church of the Brethren, 106 W. 13th St., Front Royal. Prices for advance tickets: $6.00 adult/ $3.00 child. Prices at the door: $7.00 adult/ $4.00 child.

Children 4 & under eat free! Price includes all you can eat spaghetti, salad, bread, drink and dessert. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society 6:30pm - 9:30pm Bingo. North Fork Resort Associates, 301 North Fork Road, Front Royal. Doors open at 4:30pm, early bird games begin at 6:30pm. Food and drinks are available at the North Fork Resort Cafe.

Progressive games, raffles, queen of hearts. Tonight has 2 jackpots at $400 each. Benefits the North Fork Shenandoah River Restoration Foundation. Payouts based on attendance.

Must be 12 to play. More information call (540) 636-7152.

Monday, February 23 7pm - 8pm Council Meeting.

County of Warren Government Center.

Tuesday, February 24 12:30pm - 1pm Tourism Tuesdays.

95.3 - the River radio station. Hear the latest tourism-related news and events every Tuesday at 12:30! If you can’t listen live check out the podcasts at http://www.theriver953online. com Thursday, February 26 4pm - 5pm Anti-Litter Council Mtg. Warren County Government Center.

6:30pm - 9:30pm Bingo. North Fork Resort Associates, 301 North Fork Road, Front Royal. Doors open at 4:30pm, early bird games begin at 6:30pm. Food and drinks are available at the North Fork Resort Cafe.

Progressive games, raffles, queen of hearts. Benefits the North Fork Shenandoah River Restoration Foundation.

Friday, February 27 7pm - 10pm Front Porch Style Pickin’ Party. Warren County Senior Center, 1217 Commonwealth. All levels of talent are welcome. Acoustic instruments only.

Saturday, February 28 7am - 12pm Pancake Breakfast.

Middletown Volunteer Fire & Rescue Co. 12, Main Street, Middletown.

Please come out and support your local Fire & Rescue Company!

10am - 6pm 2015 Community Wellness Festival. Apple Blossom Mall, Apple Blossom Drive, Winchester. Mark your calendar for the

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

2015 Community Wellness Festival.

The Winchester Police Department’s Volunteers in Policing will be fingerprinting children and McGruff will also be there. Also, come learn more about how you can help combat the heroin epidemic in our area by visiting the Addiction Action Committee’s booth. Winchester Fire and Rescue will also be there assisting with hands-only CPR classes and the City’s Public Services division will be on hand to discuss clean water.

1pm - 2pm Russian Pancake Day. Handley Library children’s room, Winchester. Russian Pancake Day, or Maslenitsa, is a traditional festival of Russia. This cultural experience will be relived with authentic Russian pancakes, stories, music and games for everyone. Contact Jennifer Sutter at (540) 662-9041 ext. 16 or email jsutter@handleyregional.org for more information.

2pm - 4pm NAACP Black History Program. Handley Library Auditorium, Winchester. Co-sponsored by the NAACP and the Friends of Handley Regional Library, the focus of this year’s Black History program will be Frederick Douglass. Contact Barbara Dickinson at (540) 662-9041 ext. 31 or email friends@handleyregional.org for details.

6pm - 12am Annual Mardi Gras Event. Best Western/Lee Jackson Banquet Hall, 711 Millwood Ave, Winchester. AIDS Response Effort (ARE) proudly announces the 9th annual Mardi Gras Event. Come and get your beads at the premier Winchester Mardi Gras party! This year’s theme is Hollywood Nights. Costumes are not mandatory, but encouraged. Glam it up old Hollywood style, dress as your favorite Hollywood icon, or come with a more modern Hollywood Red Carpet fashion! Join us on the red carpet for a great time in support of a great cause! Advanced Ticket Sales Only. Tickets are $50 per person (dis-

counts available if purchasing a table of 10). Tickets may be purchased at the ARE Office or securely online at http://aremardisgras2015.eventbrite. com. Tickets include a New Orleans style buffet, King Cake, beads, and a chance to win door prizes. There will also be music and dancing, live & silent auctions, raffle items, a costume contest and so much more. Auction items in the past have included Walt Disney World Park Passes, airline tickets, original artwork, winery packages, and many, many more!

New this year: Join us at 5p.m. for a Cosmo and a Piano Sing-A-Long featuring your favorite show tunes and movie theme songs! Details about the event can be found on our website: http://www.aidsresponseeffort.org/9th-annual-mardi-grasbenefit-hollywood-nights or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIDSResponseEffort.

6:30pm - 9:30pm Bingo. North Fork Resort Associates, 301 North Fork Road, Front Royal. Doors open at 4:30pm, early bird games begin at 6:30pm. Food and drinks are available at the North Fork Resort Cafe.

Progressive games, raffles, queen of hearts. Tonight has 2 jackpots at $400 each. Benefits the North Fork Shenandoah River Restoration Foundation. Payouts based on attendance.

Must be 12 to play. More information call (540) 636-7152.

Monday, March 2 5pm - 6pm UFAC Meeting. Front Royal Administration Building, 102 E Main Street, Front Royal. The Urban Forestry Advisory Commission (UFAC) meets in the Front Royal Administration Building’s 2nd Floor Conference Room.

7pm - 8pm Council Work Session.

Town Administration Building, 102 E. Main St. 8:30pm - 9:30pm Books and Blocks. Bowman Library, Tasker

Road, Stephens City. Books and Blocks is a STEM* inspired afterschool program that encourages reading and imagination, coupled with fine motor skills through the use of Lego™ building blocks. Each week leaders will introduce a new topic based on library book displays and challenge youth to build something new. Contact Donna Hughes at (540) 869-9000 x215 or email dhughes@ handleyregional.org for more information. Themes for March: March 2- Sky’s the Limit (building skyscrapers); March 9- Finding a way over (building bridges); March 16- Setting Up Camp; March 23- All Things Military; March 30- Cloud Busting Towers. *STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Tuesday, March 3 12:30pm - 1pm Tourism Tuesdays.

95.3 - the River radio station. Hear the latest tourism-related news and events every Tuesday at 12:30! If you can’t listen live check out the podcasts at http://www.theriver953online. com.

2pm - 3pm Ambassador’s Club.

Chamber Office.

Wednesday, March 4 8:30am - 9:30am Small Business Committee. Chamber Office.

12:30pm - 1pm Warren County Business On The River 95.3 Thursday, March 5 9am - 10am Tourism Committee.

Chamber Office.

6:30pm - 9:30pm Bingo. North Fork Resort Associates, 301 North Fork Road, Front Royal. Doors open at 4:30pm, early bird games begin at 6:30pm. Food and drinks are available at the North Fork Resort Cafe.

Progressive games, raffles, queen of hearts. Benefits the North Fork Shenandoah River Restoration Foundation.

Friday, March 6 1:30pm - 2:30pm Education Committee. Chamber Office.

Saturday, March 7 9am - 12pm Used Book Drop Off Day. Bowman Library, 871 Tasker Road, Stephens City; and Handley Library, 100 W. Piccadilly St., Winchester. Bring your books, DVDs and CDs for donation to the library. This month donors may drop off these

All Sports...

All the time

Winchester

Sales Manager Needed. Email:

dan@AreaGuides.com

Front Royal Little League & Washington Nationals Baseball Plus the award-winning News At Noon & Valley Today, local news & sports updates throughout the day and up-to-date weather from local meteorologist Kemp Miller Serving Front Royal and Warren County since 1948

www.facebook.com/SportsRadio1450WFTR

Late February, 2015 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Page 39

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com

To advertise in Warren & Frederick County Report, Contact: Angie Buterakos at fcrwcr@gmail.com • 540-671-8707 or Alison at alisond@warrencountyreport.com • 540-551-2072 items at either Handley or Bowman libraries. Volunteers will be there to assist with unloading donated items.

Books and other donations received will be used for the Spring Used Book Sale. The semi-annual sale benefits youth services and other programs at

Handley Regional Library. Contact Barbara Dickinson at (540) 662-9041 x31 or email friends@handleyregional.org for details.

3:30pm - 4:30pm Poet’s Church.

Handley Library Auditorium, Winchester. A new opportunity to ex-

Pets Page

press faith is coming to Winchester.

This truly different kind of worship experience contains none of the standards one might expect. There is no sermon, no corporate singing and no offering. The format is one of simple sharing from the participants

More people begin and end their day with us

who are encouraged to express their original (or not) works of poetry, music, dance or artwork. The service is the brainchild of local resident Todd Strader and is not affiliated with any particular church. The service is open to all.

6:30pm - 9:30pm Bingo. North Fork Resort Associates, 301 North Fork Road, Front Royal. Doors open at 4:30pm, early bird games begin at 6:30pm. Food and drinks are avail-

able at the North Fork Resort Cafe.

Progressive games, raffles, queen of hearts. Tonight has 2 jackpots at $400 each. Benefits the North Fork Shenandoah River Restoration Foundation. Payouts based on attendance.

Must be 12 to play. More information call (540) 636-7152.

Sunday, March 8 Daylight Saving Time starts

Blue Weimaraner

Adult • Male • Large Email: dcweimrescue@gmail.com for details!

House trained • Spay/Neuter • Current on vaccinations Adsponsoredby:

7726 Main St. Middletown

SPCAofWinchester,Frederick&ClarkeCo. 115 Featherbed Lane Winchester, VA 540-662-8616 To sponsor a pet contact Angie at fcrwcr@gmail.com or 540-683-1847

540-508-0678

540-635-4734

Humane Society of Warren County

540-635-4734

Monday thru Sunday 10 am to 4 pm - Closed Wednesday • 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal, VA • 540-635-4734 • humanesocietywc@gmail.com

HSWC Kitten Shower • April 19th, 2015, 1-3pm

Kitten Season is coming and HSWC needs your help to care for all the teeny kittens headed our way. Join us at the Kitten Shower and help us gather the items needed to care for all the kittens. Bring a donation and spend an afternoon decorating cupcakes and visiting with Hello Kitty. Learn how you can be a lifesaver by joining our foster program.

Monkey - 4 year old neutered male lab/ hound mix. Monkey is house and crate trained. He is a very sweet boy who gets very nervous and sad when his humans leave him alone. This sweet guy will need an understanding, patient family who is willing to work with him on his separation anxiety.

Chrissie - 2 year old spayed female plott hound. Chrissie is a lovable pooch with a huge personality. She is very loyal and loving. Chrissie would be a great companion for an active person.

She is super, super smart too! And absolutely loves learning new things to keep her mind razor sharp!

Monkey’s ad sponsored by:

Chrissie’s ad sponsored by:

Hillbilly’s Junkyard For all your repair and maintenance needs!

6768 Winchester Rd. Front Royal

540-635-BILL

(2455)

www.autocareclinic.biz

Hillbilly has what you NEED! 4381 Stonewall Jackson Hwy Bentonville, VA • 636-2671 hillbillysjunkyard.com

Roscoe - 3 year old neutered male pit bull.

Roscoe is a very sweet and friendly boy. He is house trained, very playful, and loves to give kisses!

Tank - 6 year old neutered male shar pei mix. Tank is a very handsome boy and is great with other dogs and kids, although he can be possessive of his food around other dogs. He is also house broken and very neat and tidy.

Roscoe’s ad sponsored by:

The Front Royal Moose Lodge #829

Tank’s ad sponsored by:

Wanda Snead

Property Management

Serving the area for 20 years!

Sam Snead Realty • 540-635-9753

SamSneadRealty.com

With your help we have been able to place thousands of animals in good homes. Contact Alison @ 540-551-2072 if you would like to become a pet sponsor too!

Page 40 • Warren & Frederick County Report • Late February, 2015

Read full issues FREE on www.WarrenCountyVA.com & www.FrederickCounty.com