The American Legion Community Band will present its annual Memorial Day Concert on Monday, May 27, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. This event, held at the gazebo on Main Street, is a cherished tradition in Front Royal, honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our nation’s freedom.

The concert promises an evening filled with patriotic music, stirring tributes, and community spirit. It is a heartfelt reminder of the courage and dedication of our service members, past and present. The band, known for its powerful performances, will play a selection of patriotic tunes that capture the spirit of Memorial Day.

“We aim to honor those who have given so much for our country,” said Ed Richards, one of the band’s conductors. “This concert is our way of saying thank you and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.”

The event is free and open to everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the concert comfortably. The gazebo on Main Street provides a picturesque backdrop for this meaningful tribute, making it a perfect setting for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and reflect on the importance of Memorial Day.

Community members look forward to this annual gathering, which pays homage to fallen heroes and fosters a sense of unity and patriotism. “It’s a beautiful way to honor our veterans and spend time with our community,” said a local resident who attends every year.

For more information about the event and the American Legion Community Band, visit their website at www.alcband.org.

For the third consecutive year, the Town of Front Royal will mark the three-day Memorial Day weekend with a plethora of activities designed to mark the service of those military men and women who gave their lives for their country during and since World War II, adding this year a “Salute to Service” at and around the Gazebo on Saturday afternoon.

A trifecta of events are planned beginning with, on Saturday at noon, at the Julia Wagner Animal Shelter on Progress Drive, the Humane Society of Warren County’s (HSWC) launch of the weekend activities with, for Front Royal, a unique event saluting not only our service men and women, but the dogs of war who helped them on the battlefield and are credited with saving thousands of lives of our military. Coincidentally, the first dogs of war sent into the Pacific theater following the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, came from a Front Royal-based military training facility.

That Saturday noon ceremony, expected to last about 45 minutes, will again feature the popular and talented Valley Chorale; an address by a U.S. Marine Corps dog handler, Christine George, now on the Randolph-Macon Academy staff, accompanied by an R-MA cadets’ honor guard; and the laying of a wreath honoring the war dogs and those local law enforcement K-9s that similarly protect our local citizens while going about their duties.

As the writer looks on former Executive Director of HSWC Meghan Bowers lays wreath at Dogs of War Wagner Shelter site ceremony. Below, a past K-9 law enforcement participant identified as Marley Ben relaxes prior to the start of service. That’s the Dogs of War Memorial Garden dog statue lurking behind Marley Ben.

Throughout Saturday afternoon at the Gazebo, from a 1 p.m. “hard opening” a “Salute to Service” gathering is planned with a variety of imported and local musical talent being featured, as well as veteran assistance informational booths. And on Monday, USMC Lt. Col. Rob MacDougall will again preside over the traditional Memorial Day ceremony at the county courthouse, at the East Main Street/Royal Avenue intersection, starting at noon. Not connected to the veterans’ salutes, but coinciding with the weekend activities will be Ellen Aders’ Farmer’s Market on Sunday afternoon in the vicinity of the Gazebo, an enterprise she re-established just a couple of weeks ago.

Prior to the dedication of the Wagner Shelter Dogs of War Memorial Garden three years ago, the ceremony took place in the Gazebo area of the Village Commons Park. This Memorial Day weekend Saturday the initial ‘Salute to Service’ event will take place with a ‘soft start’ at noon, and ‘hard start’ at 1 p.m. at the Gazebo. Below, the traditional Memorial Day Monday event on the historic Warren County Courthouse grounds will continue this year, beginning at noon under the stewardship of USMC Lt. Col. Rob MacDougall.

As the Royal Examiner camera records, members of the Valley Chorale opened and closed last year’s Dogs of War ceremony at the Wagner Animal Shelter. And they will be featured again this year.

In a recent interview with the Royal Examiner, Michelle Smeltzer shared updates on various initiatives and upcoming events organized by the Department of Social Services and local nonprofits. Here are the key takeaways:

Upcoming Resource Fair

On June 5th, from 1 to 3 p.m., the Department of Social Services will host a quarterly resource fair featuring 31 area resources, nonprofits, and agencies at the Warren County Community Center. There is a record number of participants for the event, including organizations like Cars Changing Lives, Concerned Hotline, NW Works, and the Phoenix Project. This fair is an excellent opportunity for community members to connect with organizations that provide vital services. Smeltzer emphasized the importance of these events for networking and community support, encouraging attendance from those seeking help and those looking to volunteer.

Job Fair Success and Future Plans

Smeltzer recapped a successful job fair in collaboration with Horizon Goodwill from Winchester. The event featured on-the-spot interviews and additional services provided by Horizon Goodwill, such as free haircuts. Notably, many job seekers attended dressed professionally, indicating serious intent to find employment. The next job fair is scheduled for November. Still, Smeltzer reminded the community that Susan Algers, the job developer at Social Services, is available year-round to assist with resumes and job search strategies.

HARTS Shelter Recap and Future Plans

The Hope and Resilience Temporary Shelter (HARTS), formerly the Thermal Shelter of Front Royal, recently closed for the season. This year, the shelter served 103 unique individuals, significantly increasing from previous years. The shelter also reached its maximum capacity of 35 guests multiple times. HARTS provided a safe haven for 17 women, 86 men, five dogs, and even a bearded dragon.

Smeltzer highlighted the shelter’s achievements, including purchasing a van and promoting a staff member to manager. Despite the success, she noted that funding remains a challenge. HARTS relies heavily on community donations and has several fundraisers planned, such as events at Panda Express and Ledo’s Pizza. They also organize a trivia night at On Cue and prepare for the Coldest Night of the Year walk in February.

Free Lunch Every Friday

HARTS sponsors free weekly lunches every Friday from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Salvation Army’s fellowship hall at 357 Cloud Street in Front Royal. Everyone is welcome, and no questions are asked. If you’d like to contribute, they need lunch items such as sandwich ingredients, snack foods, chips, and fruit. Donations can be dropped off at Social Services with Nichole Johns. For more information, please call 540-635-3430, ext. 3352.

Rotary Club Shred Day

The Rotary Club of Warren County will host a Shred Day on June 27th at the Front Royal Fire Department from 10 a.m. to noon. This free event allows residents to dispose of sensitive documents securely. Donations are welcome and will benefit the Front Royal Volunteer Fire Department.

Michelle Smeltzer’s updates underline the significant impact of local social services and nonprofit organizations on the community. These initiatives are essential for community well-being, from resource fairs and job support to shelter services and free meals. The various events and services provide immediate aid and foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual support among residents and organizations.

These events are excellent opportunities for those interested in volunteering or seeking assistance to get involved and make a difference. Michelle Smeltzer’s tireless efforts and dedication to her role exemplify the positive impact that one person can have on a community.

Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

The Grace Fellowship Church of God, conveniently located near Warren High School, is bustling with excitement as they prepare for two major summer events: a yard sale and a Vacation Bible School (VBS). The Royal Examiner’s Mike McCool recently sat down with two key organizers, Charli LaMattina and Taffy Mabe, to discuss the details and the community impact.

Yard Sale Extravaganza

On June 1st, the church’s Ladies of Grace (LOGS) group will host a yard sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Charli explained, “This event is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to sell items they no longer need. We’re charging $10 for a space, and it’s BYOT – bring your own table.”

In addition to the yard sale, there will be a bake sale to raise funds for the upcoming Vacation Bible School. Taffy shared, “We hope the bake sale will help us provide a memorable experience for the kids attending VBS.”

Vacation Bible School: A Fresh Start

After a hiatus of over 30 years, the Grace Fellowship Church is excited to reintroduce Vacation Bible School. This year’s VBS will be held on July 22nd, 24th, and 26th, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Charli, spearheading the VBS effort, shared, “We’re calling it the first annual Vacation Bible School of Grace Fellowship. The theme is ‘Food Truck Party,’ we aim to create a fun and engaging environment for children aged 3 to 12.”

To add a special touch, a real food truck will be brought in on the last day. “It’s going to be a family evening where kids can show their parents what they’ve learned and created,” Taffy said enthusiastically.

Senior Moments: Crafting and Community

In addition to these events, the church also offers a program called “Senior Moments” every other Tuesday. This group meets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes a craft session, a meal, and bingo with prizes. Taffy recently stepped down from leading the group and mentioned, “It’s a wonderful way for seniors to socialize, learn new crafts, and enjoy a meal together.”

Getting Involved

For those interested in participating in the yard sale, reserving a table is as simple as contacting the church via email. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged. The yard sale will take place in the church’s spacious parking lot, offering ample room for vendors and shoppers.

With these events, the Grace Fellowship Church aims to foster community spirit and provide fun, family-friendly activities. “We’re looking forward to a fantastic summer,” Taffy said, smiling.

For more information about the events or to reserve a yard sale space, visit their Facebook page for updates. Join the church community in these exciting activities and maximize your summer!

Melissa Ichiuji’s Studio Gallery is thrilled to announce its grand opening reception on Saturday, May 25th, featuring a group exhibition titled “Landscape of Desire.” This event marks a significant moment for the art community in the Shenandoah Valley, showcasing local artists’ diverse and profound talents. The gallery, located at 223 East Main Street, Front Royal, Virginia, is ready to welcome art enthusiasts from near and far.

Melissa Ichiuji, the owner and curator, is eagerly preparing for the big day. “Our first group exhibition is focused solely on artists from the Shenandoah Valley. We have over 43 artists represented, with more than 118 works of art in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, installation, and photography. Each piece offers a unique interpretation of our theme, ‘Landscape of Desire,’” she explained.

Honoring Artistic Legends

Among the many talented artists featured, two stand out for their immense contributions to the art world: Nol Putnam and Hubert Phipps. Their works are a testament to their artistic genius and a tribute to their lasting impact on the community.

Nol Putnam, renowned for his blacksmith ironwork, especially his work on the Washington National Cathedral, is celebrated as a national treasure. His dedication to his craft and ability to transform iron into intricate works of art have left a significant mark on the art world. Hubert Phipps, known for his innovative processes and monumental sculptures, brought a unique blend of technology and artistry to his creations. His sculpture, “Rocket,” is a striking example of his work and reflects his passion for blending art with high-tech processes.

“These two artists were dear friends and like family to me. Their works on display have been graciously loaned by their families and loved ones, making this exhibition even more special,” Melissa shared.

Diverse Artistic Expressions

The “Landscape of Desire” exhibition aims to go beyond traditional landscapes, exploring the physical and metaphorical landscapes that inspire artists. “We wanted to challenge the typical expectations of rural art. Our exhibition includes not just traditional landscapes but also explores interior landscapes of the mind and energetic landscapes,” Melissa explained.

The exhibition features a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. From Janice Goodman’s abstract paintings, which evoke the natural world without directly depicting it, to digital photography and installation art, the exhibition promises to offer something for everyone. “We put out a call for submissions and were thrilled with the response. Our jurors, Dr. Natalie Korytnik-Forrester, a psychologist, and Craig McPherson, a renowned artist, helped select the pieces that best captured the essence of our theme,” Melissa added.

Engaging with the Community

The grand opening reception on May 25th, from 3 to 6 p.m., will be a vibrant event, offering attendees the chance to meet the artists, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and immerse themselves in the local art scene. “There’s no charge for the reception. We want everyone to feel welcome to come and enjoy the art, meet the artists, and connect with the community,” Melissa emphasized.

In addition to the reception, the gallery will host a series of artist talks every Sunday from June 2nd to July 7th. These talks will provide a platform for artists to share their creative processes and engage directly with the public. “It’s important to have access to the artists and understand the ideas behind their work. These talks will make the art come alive for our visitors,” Melissa explained.

The opening of Melissa Ichiuji’s Studio Gallery marks a new chapter for the Shenandoah Valley’s art community. By showcasing a diverse array of artistic talent and honoring the legacies of Nol Putnam and Hubert Phipps, the gallery promises to be a cultural hub for artists and art lovers. “This gallery elevates the level of artistic expression in our community. It’s like the Wild West here, with room for all of us to grow and thrive,” Melissa concluded.

Join us on May 25th for the grand opening reception of “Landscape of Desire” and experience the beauty and creativity of the Shenandoah Valley’s artists.

Here is a look at Saturday’s Wine & Crafts Festival before 1 p.m. (one photo) and after 1 p.m.

A look at the small, umbrella-toting crowd prior to the early afternoon passing of rain clouds that dampened the opening of Saturday’s Wine & Crafts Festival in Downtown Front Royal’s Historic Business District. Around 1 p.m. the rains diminished and then left and the now umbrella-less crowd began to grow. Royal Examiner Photos Roger Bianchini

A look up East Main St. and down Chester St. as the skies and moods brightened.

One might wonder what these festival patrons are looking at. Below, the answer is one of the food concession stands, Mark’s Thai Taste Kitchen. And don’t forget that lemonade to balance the wine with.

A look at one of the many craft tents drawing a crowd till the breakdown began shortly after 6 p.m.

Florals & Feathers, Cici’s Jewelry, and The Tavern – Those plants and that crowd leads us to the discovery that all the music wasn’t outside. Here, the Hobo Mariners have made the move from the Gazebo area stage to the Chester Street Tavern’s indoor musical accommodations.

Florals & Feathers, Cici’s Jewelry, and The Tavern – Those plants and that crowd leads us to the discovery that all the music wasn’t outside. Here, the Hobo Mariners have made the move from the Gazebo area stage to the Chester Street Tavern’s indoor musical accommodations.

And don’t forget your dab of garlic to go with your wine at the Rebec Winery tent. It must be an Italian Wine Festival.