Community Events
Legendary Archie Manning named Sports Marshal
Archie Manning, of the Manning family quarterback legacy, philanthropist, football analyst, award winner will be welcomed as Sport Marshal of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® by Sharen Gromling, Festival president.
When people think of Archie Manning, they think football. But Archie’s appeal transcends his athletic achievements. People far and wide have been inspired by his warm personality, his drive and sense of humor. He currently serves in public relations and consulting capacities for several local, regional, and national companies. For 25 years he hosted four Archie Manning Cystic Fibrosis benefit golf tournaments in Louisiana and Mississippi and is active in a wide variety of charitable and civic causes.
Archie was born May 19, 1949, in Drew, Mississippi. He attended the University of Mississippi where he was named an All-American Quarterback and his #18 is retired. He was voted Mississippi’s Greatest All-Time Athlete in 1992 and was named Mississippi’s Most Popular Athlete of the Century. He was elected to the 50-Year All-South Team (1940-1990), named one of the Top 25 Athletes of the Century in Louisiana and he and his son Peyton were named among the 100 All-Time Greatest College Football Players. Archie was inducted into the National Football Foundation College Hall of Fame and is a member of other Halls of Fame including the Gator Bowl and Sugar Bowl and Louisiana and Mississippi Halls of Fame. He was named an American Spirit Medallion honoree by the World War II Museum and received the SEC’s Michael L. Slive Distinguished Service Award. In December 2022, Archie was recognized by the National College Football Awards Association for his contributions to college football.
In 1971, Archie was the second player chosen in the NFL draft – the number one draft choice of the New Orleans Saints. He set Saints passing records, played in Pro Bowls, and was named the NFC Most Valuable Player in 1978. He concluded his 15-year career in 1985. He was the first player in Saints history to be inducted into the Louisiana Superdome Wall of Fame and was in the first class of the Saints Ring of Honor. He was named to the All 50th Saints team, recognized as one of the top 50 players in franchise history. He was also drafted four times by major league baseball.
His community activities include Louisiana Special Olympics, the New Orleans Area Boy Scout Council, the Salvation Army, United Way Speakers Bureau, Allstate Sugar Bowl Committee, New Orleans Sports Foundation, and is Chairman of the Board of the National Football Foundation. While in pro football, Archie received the Byron “Whizzer” White Humanitarian Award, the Bart Starr Humanitarian Award, the Spirit of Good Sports Award from the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association and the U.S. Jaycees named him one of 10 Outstanding Young Americans. In 2005 Archie received the Legends award from the Davey O’Brien Foundation and the Aspire award, a tribute to life’s coaches, from the Cal Ripken Foundation. Archie was honored by the United States Sports Academy with the 2006 Distinguished Service Award. He was selected Father of the Year by the National Father’s Day Council. Also, he received the Silver Buffalo, the Boy Scouts of America’s highest award. Archie received the Reds Bagnell Award from the Maxwell Football Club, was the 51st winner of the Bert Bell Award, and was honored at the Super Bowl in New Orleans with the Pat Summerall Award. He was honored by the American Football Coaches Association and received the Distinguished American award from the Walter Camp Foundation. Archie and his wife Olivia were recipients of the National Pathfinder Award for their work in post-Hurricane Katrina. Archie received one of the highest honors in football, the Gold Medal Award, presented by the National Football Foundation. This award has gone to seven Presidents, Admirals and Generals, corporate CEOs, and other distinguished Americans.
Archie and Olivia reside in New Orleans and have three sons, Cooper, Peyton, and Eli. They are the proud grandparents of four boys and five girls.
Cooper was an all-state high school athlete and his football career at Ole Miss ended with a spinal cord injury. He is Senior Managing Director at the hotel/real estate firm, AJ Capital Partners. He is also the host of “The 2 Cooper Manning Hour (minus 58 minutes)” on Fox Sports. Cooper’s son, Arch, was rated the #1 high school player in the country in 2022. He is currently a quarterback at the University of Texas.
Peyton is a former All-American at Tennessee where his #16 is retired. He and Archie are the only father/son duo in the College Football Hall of Fame. He was the first player chosen in the 1998 NFL Draft and spent 18 years in pro football. He was named one of the top 10 pro football quarterbacks of all time. Peyton was selected to 14 Pro Bowls and named the NFL MVP five times. He retired as the NFL all-time leader in yardage, touchdown passes and wins. He quarterbacked the Colts and the Broncos to Super Bowl championships. Peyton was the NFL Man of the Year in 2006. Indianapolis unveiled a statue of Peyton in front of Lucas Oil Stadium and retired his #18. He has hosted the ESPYs and received the Lincoln Award from the White House. He was named one of the top 100 players in college and pro football. Tiger Woods and Peyton teamed up to win The Match, raising $20 million for COVID-19 relief. He was recently elected to the NFL Hall of Fame.
Eli was also an All-American at Ole Miss and has had his #10 retired. He won the Maxwell Award as the top player in college football. He was the first player chosen in the 2004 NFL draft. He was selected to four Pro Bowls and led the Giants to world championships in Super Bowl XLII (42) and XLVI (46) and was named MVP of both games. He was named the 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. Eli won the 2020 Bart Starr Character and Leadership Award and the “Good Guy” award, selected by the Pro Football Writers of America. Eli retired after 16 years with the Giants and his #10 was retired by Ole Miss and New York.
Archie, Cooper, Peyton and Eli were inducted into the inaugural class of the National High School Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Archie and Peyton wrote a book entitled “Manning: A Father, His Sons and A Football Legacy”. Peyton and Eli also wrote a children’s book entitled “Family Huddle”. Archie and his boys have operated the Manning Passing Academy, a summer camp for high school quarterbacks and receivers, for 27 years. Archie is an owner of Manning’s, a sports-themed restaurant on Fulton Street in New Orleans.
In honor of the Mannings’ college football accomplishments, the Sugar Bowl has created the Manning Award to go to the nation’s best college quarterback. The Manning family was named the second most inspiring family in America by Town & Country Magazine. They were featured in a highly rated documentary on ESPN entitled “The Book of Manning.
Manning will be the keynote speaker at the Partlow Sports Breakfast in the Tolley Dental Zone at the James R. Wilkins, Jr, Athletic and Events Center on the Shenandoah University campus on Saturday, May 4 at 8 a.m. That afternoon he will be riding in the glo fiber Grand Feature Parade, which will step off at 1:30 p.m.
Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events
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.
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.
Community Events
Skyline High School Celebrates the Class of 2024
On a beautiful Thursday evening, Skyline High School celebrated its Commencement Ceremony, marking the graduation of the Class of 2024. The event, held on May 16, 2024, was filled with inspiring speeches, heartfelt memories, and joyous celebrations.
The ceremony started with a warm welcome from Christina Keresztesi, the Senior Class President. Addressing her fellow graduates and the gathered crowd of family, friends, and staff, she reflected on their shared journey. “We didn’t get a freshman homecoming or even a real in-person first day of high school,” Christina noted, emphasizing the unique challenges the class faced due to the pandemic. She also paid tribute to a late classmate, Brody Michael, whose memory inspires the community.
Christina’s speech highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the Class of 2024. “Nothing in life is guaranteed,” she said, urging her peers to embrace life’s uncertainties and not let the fear of making mistakes halt their pursuit of success. She shared personal anecdotes, including her nervousness during morning announcements, which reminded her to take risks and push past anxieties.
Following Christina’s remarks, the Skyline Singers performed “It’s Time.” Their performance was followed by a musical feature from the Skyline Band, which played “Music from the Motion Picture – How to Train Your Dragon.”
Principal Danelle Sperling then took the podium, donning her dual hats as both a principal and a proud parent of a graduating senior. She praised the graduates’ kindness and resilience, recounting their elementary to high school journey. “You have shown that caring is not passive but an active choice and force for good,” she said, encouraging the students to continue making positive life choices. She also honored Brody Michael, reminding everyone of the lasting impact of his kindness and spirit.
The ceremony included a poignant moment as Logan’s bell was rung in memory of Logan Maiatico, a graduate of the Class of 2021. This moment of reflection allowed attendees to honor those who have supported them throughout their journey.
Superintendent Dr. Chris Ballinger presented the prestigious Carl and Emily Thompson Charitable Trust Scholarships. This year’s recipients were Kaitlyn Antonelli, who will be attending the University of Notre Dame to study economics, and Madelyn Sperling, who will be studying Environmental Conservation and Society at Virginia Tech. Both students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements.
The recognition continued with John Natalie honoring the distinguished honor graduates, students with GPAs of 4.0 and above, and those with GPAs between 3.5 and 3.99. This acknowledgment underscored the academic excellence within the graduating class.
The ceremony also took a moment to honor graduates who have chosen to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. Ryan Covert and Charly Cruz Gonzalez were recognized for their commitment to their country and wore red, white, and blue cords to symbolize their dedication.
The Skyline Singers and Band played the school’s alma mater as the evening progressed, evoking a sense of pride and nostalgia. The night’s highlight came with the presentation of diplomas, each student crossing the stage to receive their hard-earned diploma, marking the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.
Finally, Dr. Chris Ballinger declared the class of 2024 as graduates of Skyline High School, sending the graduates off with a message of continued pride and connection to their alma mater.
The Skyline High School Commencement Ceremony was a memorable event, celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2024 and sending them off into the world with hope, pride, and a strong sense of community.
Once a Hawk, Always a Hawk – Soar High graduates!
Watch the Skyline High School Commencement Ceremony on this exclusive Royal Examiner.
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.”
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.
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.”
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.