Community Events
WATTS President Challenges Local Community to Seek No. 1 Slot in National Homeless Walk on Feb. 24
WATTS (Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter) will host their 2nd annual ‘Coldest Night of the Year’ (CNOY) Walk on Saturday, February 24, 2024. This winter-friendly, family-friendly fundraiser walk takes place in over 40 participating cities all over the U.S. that day; it is an international event that started in Canada in 2011. WATTS is enthusiastic about hosting the Walk for Winchester, VA, again this year – last year, they were the second-largest location for a CNOY event in the U.S.! Over 400 walkers, 59 teams, and 700 donors raised $65,000 to support WATTS’s mission to end homelessness one life at a time in Winchester, Frederick, and Clarke Counties. This year, WATTS’ goal is to earn the number one spot across the entire U.S., so they need your help.
WATTS Board President Mike Ashby feigns surprise to have his picture taken at the 2023 Walk. Mike is sporting his 2023 Coldest Night of the Year brand sweatshirt (received for being one of the first 100 people in the nation to raise over $500), a Team Captain pin, and a Gold Star pin for raising over $1,000. Photo Courtesy Cindee Steele.
The Board President for WATTS, Mike Ashby, is a local businessman who has challenged the community to partner with WATTS in supporting the 2024 CNOY Winchester event.
Ashby recently shared his epic plan of attack to spread awareness about the Walk and solicit donations. “I picked one area to focus on and then went after it: social media, specifically Facebook,” Ashby said.
Ashby targeted his favorite Facebook Groups, such as former softball teammates (he asked them to donate the amount that equals their jersey number), his James Wood High School Alumni friends, and then popular groups such as Frederick County Social Collective, What’s Happening Winchester/Frederick County, and Let’s Talk About Winchester and Frederick County.
“I tag between 25 – 50 people in each group. I have found that tagging smaller groups gets the attention of Facebook users better than tagging larger groups. I identify the event, the date and time, the need for donations, and just go with it,” said Ashby. (It is important to remember that tagging too many people on Facebook can get you banned, so use discretion.)
No donation amount is too small – “I always include the catchphrase, ‘snowballs make snowmen,’ to impress upon them that all amounts are appreciated,” Ashby said. “Folks have big hearts, and every donation counts and adds up.” Through his approach, Ashby has garnered over 50 donations so far.
Walkers took off with enthusiasm and maps in hand as they embraced the cold for the 2023 ‘Coldest Night of the Year’ walk supporting WATTS. This year’s walk will take place on February 24, 2024 from 4-7 pm. Photo courtesy Robyn Miller.
All smiles as the walkers completed their 2k or 5k route around downtown Winchester for the 2023 ‘Coldest Night of the Year’ walk. A simple soup kitchen is offered at Braddock Street UMC Fellowship Hall following the walk. Photo courtesy Cindee Steele.
Ashby also personally thanks everyone who donates via a private message; acknowledgment is a key part of successful fundraising and goes a long way. Ashby’s seven-person team is in seventh place nationwide for funds raised. As the general team for WATTS that anyone is welcome to join and walk with, all donations gifted generically come into this team. Overall, WATTS has 80 teams registered so far and 356 walkers. They continue to hold the second-place position for all U.S. locations.
With just two weeks to go, Ashby and the WATTS Board are pushing hard to reach WATTS’ goal of $65,000, 100 teams, and over 700 walkers this year. They have reached out to many media outlets to get the message out about the Walk – The Winchester Star, Warren Frederick County Report, Royal Examiner, Clarke Monthly, NV Daily, Breakfast with Barry Lee, Town Talk with Mike McCool, The River 95.3 FM and “Valley Today” podcast with Janet Michael, “Joy in the Mornings” Sunday AM show on WINC, and OldTownist Magazine have all run articles about Coldest Night of the Year or had WATTS staff do guest segments on their shows. White Oak Media Services shot footage at last year’s event, then taped a follow-up interview with Executive Director Robyn Miller and edited a 2024 promo video for WATTS’ Winchester event this year together. WATTS is so grateful for all the help and support.
Plan to step outside the warmth and comfort of home for a few hours one evening – the Walk is open to everyone to come out and get a small taste of what it might be like to be homeless, walking all the time in the cold. It is a great opportunity for children and youth, especially to get involved with WATTS since they cannot help directly at the shelter (WATTS is a low-barrier shelter, which means everyone must be over 18.) Ashby wants to impress upon young people that it is important to feel compassion for people experiencing homelessness; charity includes sharing empathy and giving.
Winchester Coldest Night of the Year 2k route map. www.cnoy.com/location/winchester
Winchester Coldest Night of the Year 5k route map. www.cnoy.com/location/winchester
Anyone who wants to join the Walk, scheduled to step off at 5:00 pm on Saturday, February 24, should register online to accept the required waiver. There is an option to choose the 2-kilometer (1.25 mile) or 5-kilometer (3.1 mile) Walk, both of which follow along sidewalks through downtown Winchester and start and end at Braddock Street United Methodist Church (115 Wolfe Street in Winchester). The total event time is between 4 pm and 7 pm. Participants are encouraged to donate money and solicit financial sponsorships between now and then, all to help WATTS, but registration is completely free, and contributions are not required. An incentive, however, is that anyone who raises at least $150 (or $75 for youth aged 17 and under) will receive a 2024 Coldest Night of the Year winter beanie to recognize their awesome fundraising efforts!
Children aged 12 and under must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the Walk, and pets are not allowed due to insurance regulations.
CNOY walkers will also experience a simple soup kitchen after completing the Walk. Braddock Street United Methodist Church congregants will serve soups crafted by local food truck owner Billy Sous, but do not expect to fill them up – they will be a fundamental meal of bread and soup to mimic the uncertainty and desperation a homeless person experiences.
You can help raise funds for WATTS to support the men and women they serve in Winchester, Frederick, and Clarke Counties through participating in WATTS fundraisers like Coldest Night of the Year. Last season, WATTS supported more than 300 individuals in our area who were experiencing homelessness. Already this season, their Overnight Shelter has served over 100 unique individuals in 13 weeks, and their daytime Warming Center has seen over 200 unique individuals come through in 10 weeks. There is great need, but WATTS is also seeing results – 7 individuals in that time have been able to transition out of WATTS and into more stable housing, and WATTS has helped countless guests obtain IDs, jobs, sober living arrangements, and more. WATTS Executive Director Robyn Miller said, “The money we raise will support WATTS locally in our mission to end homelessness one life at a time. Our guests saw you walking for them last year, and they were touched.”
WATTS is grateful for its cooperative relationship with the City of Winchester to host this event, and to the Winchester Sheriff’s Office, Winchester Police Department, and Winchester Fire & Rescue Department for their planned presence and coordination assistance on Walk Day, as well as their support year-round.
Registration and more information about Coldest Night of the Year is available at www.cnoy.com/location/winchester. Donations for CNOY will be accepted through March 31.
For more on WATTS, visit www.watts-homelessshelter.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Community Events
Community Liaison Michelle Smeltzer Highlights Key Initiatives for Social Services and Nonprofits
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
Community Events
Grace Fellowship Church of God Hosts Yard Sale and Vacation Bible School
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!
Community Events
Celebrating Art at Melissa Ichiuji’s Studio Gallery: “Landscape of Desire” Exhibition
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.
Chamber News
Wine & Crafts Festival Skies, Moods Brighten after 1 p.m.
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.
Community Events
Humane Society of Warren County Hosts Annual War Dogs Memorial
The Humane Society of Warren County proudly announces its annual memorial event dedicated to the Dogs of War. This special ceremony honors the brave four-legged heroes who have given their lives in service to protect ours.
The Humane Society hosts a commemorative program each year featuring various dignitaries and performances. This year’s event will include:
- The Valley Chorale, providing beautiful musical tributes.
- Bagpiper Jim Lundt, whose stirring melodies will add to the solemn atmosphere.
- An honor guard from the Randolph-Macon Academy cadets, showcasing their discipline and respect.
- Christine George, a former military dog handler and featured speaker from R-MA, will share her insights and experiences.
- Skip Rogers from the Able Forces Foundation, also a former military dog handler, will lay a wreath of remembrance generously provided by our local Fussell Florists.
Malcolm Barr, the past president of the Humane Society of Warren County and a retired international journalist, was inspired to initiate this local observance. The idea came to him while waiting for a B-52 bomber flight over Cambodia on the distant Pacific Island of Guam. He visited a World War II war dog cemetery hidden in a jungle clearing, which now features a U.S. Marine Corps memorial to the 22 dogs buried there. Barr’s efforts have ensured that these courageous animals are remembered and honored.
Barr reminds us that the first war dogs sent into action in the Pacific after the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack were trained in Front Royal and deployed within six months. He emphasized the invaluable contributions of these dogs, who are credited with saving thousands of GI lives during World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq, despite many of them losing their own lives.
This year’s ceremony may be the last coordinated by Barr, and the Humane Society is reaching out to veterans interested in overseeing the event in the future. Those interested are encouraged to contact Kayla at director@humanesocietywarrencounty.org.
Join us on May 25th at noon, as we honor the legacy of the war dogs and pay tribute to their service and sacrifice.
Community Events
Warren County High School Celebrates the Class of 2024
On Friday, May 17, 2024, Warren County High School held its Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2024. Despite a forecast for heavy rain, the ceremony experienced only a few sprinkles, making for a perfect evening to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
The event began with a heartfelt welcome from Molly Sims, the Senior Class President. Molly reminisced about her childhood dream of becoming class president and shared her journey with the audience. “Today is a day I have dreaded for most of my life,” she admitted, recalling how she once asked her mother if she could stay in school forever after watching High School Musical 3. Molly’s speech was filled with humor and poignant memories, including a tribute to their late classmate, Josh Lillard.
Molly’s speech was followed by Principal Kenneth Knesh’s remarks. He expressed his pride in the Class of 2024, noting their resilience and unique character. “You’ve been challenging, there’s no doubt, but being your principal has been one of the biggest honors of my life,” he said. Principal Knesh shared fond memories of various students and encouraged the graduates to continue supporting each other and to remember their roots as Wildcats.
Superintendent Dr. Chris Ballinger presented the prestigious Carl and Emily Thompson Charitable Trust Scholarships. This year’s recipients were Madelyn Tennant, who will attend the University of Virginia to study pre-law, and Sophia McCurry, who will also attend UVA to study biology and pre-med. Both students were recognized for outstanding academic achievements, with cumulative GPAs of 4.41 and 4.32, respectively.
The ceremony continued with the presentation of the Hugh D. Hite Award, the most coveted honor for a senior. Hailey Oyler, the 2023 recipient, announced Sophia Kozhenevsky as this year’s winner. Sophia, known for her intelligence, humility, and leadership, plans to attend Virginia Tech University to major in Interior Design.
Next, Warren County Board of Supervisors Chair Cheryl Cullers presented the Warren County Educational Foundation Scholarship to Sophia McCurry, acknowledging her exceptional academic performance and her medical career plans.
Mary Bukva, a retired teacher and administrator, presented the Mary Francis Bukva “Ms. B” Award to Laney Schenher. Laney recognized for her leadership, academic excellence, and athletic achievements, plans to attend High Point University to become a behavioral analyst.
Jessica Kelly, a former U.S. Navy dental technician, recognized the seniors chosen to serve in the military. These graduates, wearing red, white, and blue cords, included Noah Stewart (Coast Guard), Blake Ramsey (Army National Guard), Hannah Bonner (Air Force), Nicholas Robison (Army), Collin Houston, Jonathan Pansara, Tara Shaver, and Drake Chapin (Navy). Kelly commended their bravery and commitment to serving the country.
Dr. G. Michelle Edwards then acknowledged the distinguished honor graduates with GPAs of 4.0 and above. The students were celebrated for their academic excellence and were adorned with gold and maroon cords. Tucker Brown, Assistant Principal, followed by recognizing honor graduates with GPAs between 3.5 and 3.99, who wore silver and maroon cords.
The ceremony proceeded with the presentation of diplomas, a moment each graduate had eagerly anticipated. As the graduates walked across the stage, they were greeted with applause and cheers from their families and friends.
Finally, Dr. Christopher Ballinger officially declared Warren County High School’s Class of 2024 graduates. “Wildcats, are you ready? Please stand. By the virtue and the authority vested in me, I confer upon you the title of Warren County High School graduate,” he announced. The graduates moved their tassels from right to left, symbolizing the completion of their high school journey.
The Warren County High School Commencement Ceremony was memorable, filled with laughter, tears, and a sense of accomplishment. The Class of 2024 leaves a legacy of resilience, kindness, and unity. Congratulations to all the graduates as they embark on their new adventures!
Go Wildcats!
Watch the Warren County High School Commencement Ceremony on this exclusive Royal Examiner.
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