Community Events
Col James Wood II Chapter, Veterans at Hidden Springs
The Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) began the weekend conducting a presentation on veterans on November 10, 2023, to the residents of Hidden Springs Senior Living Facility in Bentonville.
Chapter members Dale Corey, Chip Daniel and Richard Tyler, along with dual member from the Culpeper Minutemen, Bill Schwetke gave the history of Veterans Day and spoke of personal experiences as a veteran. Corey lead the Pledge of Allegiance and Tyler gave the history of the commemoration.
Bill Schwetke providing presentation with Richard Tyler and Dale Corey. (Photos courtesy of Thomas “Chip” Daniel)
It came about at the end of World War I. An armistice was called to begin on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to begin a truce and a suspension of hostilities. The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, to officially end the “war to end all wars”. President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11th to be celebrated as Armistice Day to commemorate those allies who fought and died and the return of peace. The first commemoration was held November 11, 1919, when President Wilson stated “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with the solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory.” In 1954, Armistice Day was retitled Veterans Day by legislation of Congress as a day to honor all American Veterans of all wars.
SAR compatriots with residents of Hidden Springs, from left to right: Paul Fidishun (veteran), Dale Corey, Frank Brandon (veteran), Thomas “Chip” Daniel, Nancy McMinus (veteran), Bill Schwetke, Jeanne Montgomery (veteran, British Army) and Richard Tyler.
Corey followed with a recognition of the U.S. Army and being a soldier. Daniel then next gave a presentation on being a sailor. Schwetke spoke of the first veterans from the Revolutionary War. He recalled his ancestor’s participation in “the Flying Camp”. This was a unit under the command of Brigadier General Hugh Mercer comprised of units from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland. They were the Home Guard with duties to serve and protect citizens against invasion. These trained soldiers were required to pack up and leave for duty at a moments notice.
Community Events
Warren County High School Graduation Ceremony – May 17, 2024 – Watch it LIVE on the Royal Examiner
Mark your calendars! Warren County High School’s graduation ceremony on May 17, 2024, will be broadcast live, allowing family and friends to partake in this milestone event from anywhere. The Royal Examiner is excited to provide live coverage of the ceremony, ensuring that no one misses out on celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2024.
The broadcast starts at 6:55 p.m.
Make sure to share this page link with your family and friends so they can tune in and join the celebration. Whether near or far, everyone can witness the proud moment when Warren County High School’s seniors turn their tassels and step into their bright futures.
Congratulations to all the graduates and their families!
Community Events
Skyline High School Graduation Ceremony – May 16, 2024 – Watch it LIVE on the Royal Examiner
Mark your calendars! Skyline High School’s graduation ceremony on May 16, 2024, will be broadcast live, allowing family and friends to partake in this milestone event from anywhere. The Royal Examiner is excited to provide live coverage of the ceremony, ensuring that no one misses out on celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2024.
The broadcast starts at 6:55 p.m.
Make sure to share this page link with your family and friends so they can tune in and join the celebration. Whether near or far, everyone can witness the proud moment when Skyline High School’s seniors turn their tassels and step into their bright futures.
Congratulations to all the graduates and their families!
Community Events
Ressie Jeffries Elementary School’s ‘Senior Walk’ Honors Alumni Poised to Take Their Next Step in Life
Shortly after noon, Wednesday, May 15, Ressie Jeffries Elementary School held its annual Senior Walk. Expected were graduates from both Skyline and Warren County High Schools, along with some from surrounding counties, including Sherando. We got word from staff at Ressie that, “The entire school Pre-K to 5th grades have been feverishly working to decorate the school as one final hoorah before these seniors walk across the stage to receive their diplomas.”
Seniors pose outside and inside as they prepare for the Senior Walk through Ressie Jeffries hallways and into the gym. Royal Examiner Photos Roger Bianchini
At the conclusion of the parade in the gymnasium area, some seniors were anticipated to participate in a final relay race to mark an official “Goodbye” to their childhood memories. Also invited to participate this year were former staff that taught, possibly some of the participating seniors, at Ressie.
The Ressie Jaguar mascot preps the Class of 2024 sign bearers, left Hudson Simmons, right Eli Wood. And here they come down the hall with this year’s seniors robed and being cheered on by future seniors lining the hallway.
Following the event we got this update from Ressie staffer Jamie Marion: “This was by far the BIGGEST Senior Walk we’ve had that included at least 50 graduates, along with the most parents we’ve ever had. Additionally, we had past staff members on video chat attending virtually. The positive comments, tears of joy, happiness, sadness, the reminiscing and all the cheering was phenomenal,” Marion observed, adding, “All-in-all it was a WONDERFUL day to be a Jaguar.”
Once a Ressie Jaguar, always a Ressie Jaguar – Where’d they go, some were wondering. And it was into the gym for some final post walk activities, planned and unplanned.
The Senior Class of 2024 readies for a rumored relay race, and below the Jaguar seems to have picked its relay team from three high schools judging from the caps and gowns.
Community Events
Experience the Splendor of Virginia’s Horse Country at the 65th Hunt Country Stable Tour
This Memorial Day Weekend, the Hunt Country Stable Tour invites equestrian enthusiasts and newcomers to explore over a dozen historic and private equine properties in Virginia’s picturesque horse country. Celebrating its 65th year, the tour resumes after a brief hiatus, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of horses and their trainers across various disciplines.
Scheduled for Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with special hours at select venues, the self-driving tour will showcase notable farms like Kinross and Poplar Grange, where visitors can witness the training of eventing horses, jumpers, and steeplechase athletes against a backdrop of rolling hills.
A highlight for many will be the visit to Oak Spring Farm, once owned by Paul and Bunny Mellon, where internationally celebrated horses were bred. The tour also provides an opportunity to experience the historic Piedmont Fox Hounds, the oldest hunt in America, demonstrating traditional hunting calls and techniques at Trinity Church in Upperville.
Old Denton offers a unique perspective with demonstrations of mules excelling in disciplines from dressage to western reining. Polo enthusiasts can enjoy matches at Phipps Field, and early risers can catch a glimpse of racehorse training at the Middleburg Training Center.
The tour is not just about horses; historical estates like Stoke Farm and Welbourne Inn offer breathtaking vistas and engaging reenactments of their storied pasts. The Virginia Tech Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension Center will open its doors to those interested in equine health and nutrition, showcasing mares and foals in their care.
Other sites include the Salamander Resort, which highlights therapeutic riding programs, and The National Sporting Library & Museum, which offers tours of its rare books and art collection, enriching visitors’ understanding of country pursuits.
Tickets are priced at $40 per person, with free admission for children under ten, covering both days of the tour. All proceeds will benefit Trinity Ministries, supporting various organizations that improve the lives of people in need.
With the lush landscapes of Virginia as its backdrop, the Hunt Country Stable Tour celebrates the region’s equestrian heritage and its commitment to community and preservation. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the event’s official website at [Hunt Country Stable Tour](https://trinityupperville.org/hunt-country-stable-tour). Join us in experiencing the grandeur and tradition of Virginia’s horse country on a weekend filled with beauty, history, and equine excellence.
Community Events
Wings and Wheels Day Soars at Warren County Airport
On Saturday, May 11th, the Front Royal’s Warren County Airport buzzed excitedly as the community gathered for the 2024 Wings and Wheels Day. This event showcased the thrill of aviation and the allure of classic automobiles. Mike McCool from the Royal Examiner navigated through the vibrant displays and engaged with participants and spectators.
Adjacent to the flying machines, classic cars lined up, adding a nostalgic touch to the event. Enthusiasts and owners shared stories of their vehicles, bridging the past with the present as they discussed the intricacies of maintaining such timeless treasures.
The event also highlighted community contributions, including a thrilling display by local skydivers performing jumps with smoke, adding a spectacle to the blue skies above. Educational moments were plentiful, with experts discussing everything from flight mechanics to the principles behind the aircraft on display.
Wings and Wheels Day not only celebrated the mechanics of flight and automobile engineering but also emphasized the community spirit of Front Royal. The local airport was a hub of knowledge, excitement, and community engagement, illustrating the passion and dedication of those who cherish aviation and automotive history. As the day wrapped up, attendees left with memories of propellers and pistons, high flights, and high spirits, marking another successful year for this local event.
Community Events
Front Royal Celebrates with Style at the 9th Annual Fun Day Parade
On Saturday, May 11th, Front Royal’s Main Street was a scene of festive delight as the community gathered for the 9th Annual Fun Day Parade, hosted by C&C Frozen Treats. Despite concerns about the weather, the skies cleared up as parade organizer Willie confidently predicted, making for a perfect parade day under the theme “Nope, not today,” inspired by the cheerful defiance of any rain clouds.
The parade featured a vibrant mix of local businesses and community groups, each contributing to the lively atmosphere.
The event wasn’t just about fun and games; it served as a community connection and support platform. Local businesses and organizations took this opportunity to engage with the crowd, throwing out stuffed animals and t-shirts, adding to the communal spirit. The parade also highlighted the significant role of volunteers and local sponsors, ensuring its success each year.
Family Fun Day has become more than just a local festival; it’s a testament to Front Royal’s tight-knit community and its commitment to celebrating life together. From the laughter of children catching stuffed animals to adults appreciating the classic cars and local talent, the parade reflected the community’s spirit and resilience.
Front Royal continues to show how community involvement and festive gatherings can bring people together meaningfully, fostering a sense of belonging and collective joy.
Enjoy the parade!
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