Local News
WATCH: Warren County Artisan Trail’s first Lunch N’ Learn
FRONT ROYAL, VA – Community artisans and supporters came out today, May 3, to learn how they can participate in the newly forming Warren County Artisan Trail.
Artisan Trails is part of a Virginia Network connecting creative & agricultural artisan studios/farms, art-related venues, restaurants, unique lodging and cultural points of interest to engage communities and enhance visitor experiences.
The Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV), in partnership with community members, tourism, economic development and local government representing the Town of Front Royal and Warren County are kicking off the development of the Commonwealth’s newest artisan trail.
The Warren County Artisan Trail (working title) will be the 34th artisan trail in the Commonwealth and joins other popular trails on Virginia’s Artisan Trail Network such as the Loudoun County Artisan Trail and the overlaying Virginia Oyster Trail.
The Artisan Trail will encourage visitors to discover Virginia’s four regions by connecting artist studios, galleries, local farms, wineries, craft breweries, farmers markets, distilleries, cideries, restaurants, hotels, boutiques, and other artisanal and agri-tourism based businesses.
According to Richmond based Chmura Economics and Analytics, the total economic impact of the artisan industry in Virginia in 2014 was $572.2 million, providing $15.6 million in state tax revenue for the Commonwealth, and nearly 12,000 full-time jobs were supported by artisan visitor spending. Artisan tourist spending totaled more than $250 million, with the average tourist spending $260 per person, per
trip.
“As a local Virginia Business in Warren County for 54+ years, we have seen the enchantment and charm our community has on the
guests from both here and around the globe. Witnessing first-hand the talents of our artisans, Mother Nature in her glory, smiling
faces, creative souls and the ardent fans of our homeland, has made us realize how very special we are. We open our arms, shake
your hands and encourage all to see and feel our blessings. Virginia Is For Lover’s and Warren County invites you here to enjoy our Artisan Trail!” – George McIntyre, The Apple House
“Our local creative and agricultural artisans, small businesses, and unique points of historical interest in our community make Warren County a special place to live and a great place to visit and explore. As artists and new business owners, we are excited to see the development of the Artisan Trail in Warren County.” – Tiffany Budzisz, Art in the Valley
The trail’s local action team- made up of local artists and arts advocates, hospitality and cultural businesses, and tourism and economic development representatives- represents a public-private initiative to further strengthen the relationships and connectivity of local businesses while emphasizing unique experiences, special places and locally-made products in the region.
“On behalf of tourism for the Town and County, we are excited to see this Artisan Trail come to fruition. This trail gives us another avenue to not only entice new visitors to our area, but to also remind our locals of all that we have to offer.” – Felicia Hart, Director – Community Development and Tourism
The Warren County Artisan Trail Management Team (in alphabetical order)
• Michael and Tiffany Budzisz, Art in the Valley
• Niki Foster Cales, Front Royal/ Warren CountyChamber of Commerce
• Alyssa Crump, Dance Educator and Arts Manager
• Kym Crump, Blue Ridge Arts Council
• Craig Laird, The Vine and Leaf and Front Royal
Independent Business Alliance (FRIBA)
• Arline Link, The Kiln Doctor
• Holly Link, The Kiln Doctor
• George McIntyre, The Apple House
• Amber Mitchell, The Apple House
• Chris Pollock, Rainbow View Cabin
The team’s next steps include identifying potential participating artisans and local businesses, public awareness gatherings, a process to build consensus for the Trail’s distinctive name and the development of promotional materials and activities to support the program and its participants.
“As a 30-year-old arts organization, dedicated to building community through the arts by providing a wide variety of visual and performance arts programming, education, and experiences, Blue Ridge Arts Council is excited to partner in this exciting new project! Blue Ridge Arts Council understands the vital impact that arts and culture have on tourism and local business. The introduction of this Artisan Trail is a positive contribution to our ever-growing community, and we look forward to showcasing the vibrant creativity of local artisans, agri-businesses, historical attractions, unique lodgings and restaurants, and recreational experiences to those at home and far away.” – Kym Crump, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Arts Council
MONTHLY GATHERINGS
Each month during the enrollment period the Trail’s Management Team will host a public gathering for those interested in learning about the program. These informal gatherings will be held in different locations around the region. Anyone interested in learning about the Artisan Trail program is invited to attend.
WATCH: Warren County Artisan Trail’s first Lunch N’ Learn public informational gathering:
GETTING STARTED
In addition to the craft, artist and agricultural artisan businesses, supporting sites such as locally owned lodging, restaurants, and cultural points of interest are welcome to become participants on the Trail.
For information on how to become a trail site, visit www.ArtisanTrailNetwork download the “Artisan Trail Network Participation Details” explaining the participation criteria and program or contact the Artisans Center of Virginia at trails@artisanscenterofvirginia.org
About Warren County:
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Warren County’s impressive mix of natural beauty, history, small town allure and modern convenience make it an exceptional place to visit and experience Virginia artisanry . Located at the confluence of the North and South Forks of the renowned Shenandoah River, the County offers access for boating, kayaking and canoeing adventures.
Warren is also the gateway to the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive which provides spectacular views of the
countryside, South Fork of the Shenandoah River, and George Washington National Forest. Nearby local wineries, hiking, fishing, golfing, biking and horseback riding opportunities are also abundant.
About the Artisans Center of Virginia:
The Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV) develops and implements systems and strategies to improve economic outcomes for Virginia artisans and their communities while assisting them in promoting their local artisan culture. As the official state-designated non-profit dedicated to providing opportunities for Virginia Artisans (creative and agricultural) and to the benefit of the communities in which they reside, ACV is implementing a defined plan of strategic initiatives across the Commonwealth. For more information, visit ArtisansCenterofVirginia.org or follow on Twitter @ACVArtisans or @VAArtisanTrails
The state of Virginia’s “official” artisan organization, the Artisans Center of Virginia, is supported by its members and other program partners like the Virginia Tourism Corporation with additional support made possible for the Artisan Trail Network program by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and local foundations and community sponsors in regional trail jurisdictions.
What is a Creative Artisan?
A Creative Artisan creates art works that can be three-dimensional crafts which are often to be used functionally or artists who create fine craft and/or two-dimensional art pieces. Each type of Creative Artisan works with a high degree of artistry and fine craftsmanship. For
the Artisan form follows function, and the work of the Artisan speaks to the simple honesty of that paradigm. The Artisan pours himself into his art making his/her authentic works with pride, honesty, and integrity. Whether using hand tools or machines, the Creative Artisan takes no shortcuts that might compromise the quality of the work. The Artisan does not attempt to compete with the large scale manufacturer, and the amount of time taken to make a work of fine art or craft is secondary to the result.
What is an Agri-Artisan (a.k.a Agro-Artisan, Aqua-Artisan)? Agricultural-based, an Agri-Artisan relies on the natural resources of the land while reconciling a preservation of America’s past as they operate businesses such as family farms, vineyards, wineries, breweries, orchards, watermen/aqua-culture, organic farming, roadside stands, etc. Many embrace traditional farm practices, capturing a way of life
unique to the rural and agricultural communities where they reside, retaining the culture and character passed on to them by previous generations. Such enterprises produce food, fiber, unique crops or livestock, add value to traditional agricultural products, or offer recreation, education, nature or other farm based activities, such as markets and roadside stands.
Website: http://artisantrailnetwork.org/
Warren County Artisan Trail Supporters include:
Local News
POLICE: 7 Day FRPD Arrest Report 4/28/2024
Front Royal Police Department’s arrest report for the past 7 days:
Local News
VDOT: Warren County Traffic Alert for May 6 – 10, 2024
The following is a list of highway work that may affect traffic in Warren County during the coming weeks. Scheduled work is subject to change due to inclement weather and material supplies. Motorists are advised to watch for slow-moving tractors during mowing operations. When traveling through a work zone, be alert to periodic changes in traffic patterns and lane closures.
*NEW* or *UPDATE* indicates a new or revised entry since last week’s report.
INTERSTATE 66
*NEW* Mile marker 0 to 15, eastbound and westbound – Overnight alternating lane closures for pavement marking installations, 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Monday and Tuesday nights.
*NEW* Mile marker 0 to 2, eastbound – Right shoulder closures for utility work, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. through May 31.
*NEW* Mile marker 8 to 7, westbound – Right shoulder closures for sign work, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Mile marker 9 to 7, westbound – Overnight right lane closures at Shenandoah River bridge for utility work, 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Thursday night.
INTERSTATE 81
*UPDATE* Mile marker 299 to 300, northbound – Overnight alternating lane closures for overhead sign repairs, 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Monday night.
Mile marker 299 to 300, northbound – Right shoulder closures for utility work, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. through May 31.
Mile marker 299 to 300, northbound and southbound –Overnight lane closures and traffic-lane shifts as needed, 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. through December 2024. Shoulder closures 24/7. Work zone speed limit: 55 miles an hour. Work is related to southbound acceleration ramp extension and bridge widening, with estimated completion in late 2024.
PRIMARY ROADS
*NEW* Route 55 (John Marshall Highway) – Flagger traffic control between Front Royal town limits and Route 647 (Dismal Hollow Road) for guardrail upgrades, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday (May 2) and Tuesday (May 7).
*NEW* Route 340 (Stonewall Jackson Highway) – Flagger traffic control between Route 674 (Limeton Church Road) and Route 607 (Rocky Lane) for pipe replacement, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 7 – May 14.
SECONDARY ROADS
Route 658 (Rockland Road) – Closed to through traffic between Route 340/522 (Winchester Road) and Route 705 (Fishnet Boulevard) for the construction of a bridge over Norfolk Southern Railway. Estimated completion December 2025.
Vegetation management may take place district-wide on various routes. Motorists are reminded to use extreme caution when traveling through work zones.
Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511 or at www.511Virginia.org.
Local News
VSP Investigating I-81 Dump Truck/Sheriff’s Vehicle Accident
The Virginia State Police are investigating a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 in Shenandoah County. The crash occurred Friday, May 3, at 5:46 a.m. at the Route 646 overpass at the 292-mile maker of I-81.
A 2005 Kenworth dump truck was traveling north on I-81 when the driver accidentally engaged the dump bed, which raised it and caused it to collide with the bridge overpass. The collision caused the dump bed to detach from the truck, slide backward, and land on a northbound 2022 Ford Explorer, which was driven by a Frederick County Sheriff’s deputy.
The dump truck driver, Gaylon R. Miller, 71, of Toms Brook, Va., was not injured in the crash. He was wearing his seatbelt.
The sheriff’s deputy suffered minor injuries and was transported to Winchester Medical Center for treatment.
Miller was charged with reckless driving.
(From a Release by the Virginia State Police)
Local News
WCSB Approves New LFK Principal; Accepts Scholarships for Baseball, Softball Seniors
The Warren County School Board unanimously approved the appointment of a new principal who will take over at Leslie Fox Keyser (LFK) Elementary School starting this summer and accepted baseball and softball scholarships being offered by the Front Royal Cardinals for four seniors attending Warren County Public Schools (WCPS).
Board chair Kristen Pence, vice chair Antoinette Funk, and board members Andrea Lo, Thomas McFadden, Jr., and Melanie Salins, during their regular meeting on Wednesday, May 1, voted 5-0 to have Jennifer Cameron appointed as the LFK principal effective July 1.
“Ms. Cameron is an experienced educator and leader in Warren County,” said WCPS Superintendent Christopher Ballenger in recommending her appointment to the School Board.
Previously, Cameron has taught as a fourth- and fifth-grade teacher and has experience as a literacy coach who supported grade-level teachers in her school building, Ballenger said, adding that as an administrator, Cameron has served as the dean of students and as an assistant principal.
“During her years of service, Ms. Cameron was selected as the Rotary Teacher of the Year in 2008 and was the [WCPS] Elementary Teacher of the Year in 2015-2016,” he added.
As a leader, Ballenger also said that Cameron has been integral in transforming E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School and has served as the chair for the division’s Attendance Committee for the past two years.
“Ms. Cameron is a great fit for LFK, and I know that her skill set will continue to move LFK forward,” said the superintendent.
Following the board’s vote, Cameron told board members she was honored to accept the LFK principal position and said she’s excited to rejoin the Lil’ Cat family.
“Thank you for entrusting me with this opportunity to nurture young minds and to foster the continued excellence of LFK,” she said. “I look forward to working with you to continue the path to excellence at Warren County Public Schools. I’m truly humbled at this huge responsibility that you have entrusted to me, and I look forward to the coming school year and this new adventure that awaits me.”
In other action items, the School Board unanimously accepted four scholarships with gratitude from the Front Royal Cardinals and approved the donation of auditorium seating from E. Wilson Morrison (EWM) Elementary School.
Donna Settle, president of Front Royal Cardinals Baseball, a nonprofit organization that is part of the Valley Baseball League, said that as part of the group’s fundraising activities, the board will sponsor Little League for both girls and boys and will give back to the WCPS baseball and softball programs.
“This year, our board has voted to bring scholarships back to Warren County,” Settle told the board. “I know we’re a little late in the season, but we have enough money set aside for the scholarships for the 2024 student-athletes.”
There are four new $500 scholarship opportunities beginning with the Class of 2024 that are available for a Skyline baseball and softball senior who plans to continue their education and for a Warren County baseball and softball senior who plans to continue their education.
The School Board also voted 5-0 to permit two auditorium seats to be donated to Robert MacDougall, founding principal of Transform Development, a commercial landlord and developer based in the Shenandoah Valley.
Seating in the EWM auditorium, which is being renovated to provide an indoor facility for students and staff, has been removed and is set to go to auction. MacDougall offered a facility to store the auditorium seating until they could be auctioned.
With the School Board’s blessing, WCPS will now donate two seats to MacDougall, who will display them in the theater once its renovation is completed.
Regarding a request to have the Warren County Board of Supervisors (BOS) appropriate the fiscal year 2022 School Operating Fund Surplus, the School Board voted unanimously to table the item to a work session and FY2025 budget resolution.
Ballenger explained that the total fiscal year 2021-2022 school operating surplus is $973,098, and said it was being requested that the Warren County Board of Supervisors (BOS) appropriate $300,000 of the surplus to the School Transportation Fund that is held by the County and the remaining $673,098 to the School Capital Improvement Fund that is also held by the County.
The $300,000 designated for the Transportation Fund was originally included in the FY2025 Proposed School Operating Budget to purchase replacement buses and vehicle(s) but has since been removed contingent upon the funding appropriated to the Transportation Fund, he said.
Of the $673,098 requested for the County’s School Capital Improvement Fund, $40,000 was originally included in the FY2025 Proposed School Operating Budget to cover the repair/replacement of the chiller at Hilda J Barbour Elementary School and to upgrade the HVAC management systems at several schools. The remaining balance ($633,098) being requested for the Capital Improvement Fund would be requested at a future date for other capital priorities, such as the replacement of the tennis courts at the high schools.
As the budget process continues unfolding for both WCPS and the BOS, the School Board members agreed to work more on the item before taking action.
During the School Board’s community participation portion of its meeting, Leslie Mathews (above), a parent with two children attending Skyline Middle School, said that some of the School Board members are using the concerns expressed through emails by parents as “a crutch” for their own political motives. She called it a disgrace.
“I and we parents are only given three minutes a month [during School Board meetings] to get up here and express our concerns to you, or we’re told we can email you,” said Mathews. “But I no longer trust that method of emailing.”
Mathews, who last fall unsuccessfully challenged School Board incumbent Pence for the South River School Board seat, said “it’s such a disgrace for you as a public servant to go and encourage others to FOIA the concerns of parents who are not like-minded as yourself.
“So, therefore, our concerns are going public,” said Mathews, who didn’t name names. “If we want more positive in Warren County Public Schools, then we need to start at our leadership.”
Chamber News
Front Royal Welcomes CBM Team of Supreme Lending with Enthusiasm and Optimism
Front Royal, Virginia, celebrated a significant business merger that marks a promising future for local economic development. The CBM Team, a longstanding local business entity, has officially joined forces with Supreme Lending, expanding its reach and capacity to serve the community more effectively.
Nike Foster, Executive Director of the Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce, and Mayor Lori Cockrell welcomed the CBM Team to our community. The event underscored a vibrant community spirit and the potential for economic growth. Byron Biggs, Chairman of the Chamber, highlighted the merger as a symbol of positive evolution in the local business landscape. It is now poised to extend its influence beyond Virginia.
Mayor Cockrell shared personal anecdotes, reflecting on the profound local ties and the exceptional character of the individuals involved, particularly noting the entrepreneurial spirit of Cory Michael, a former student of hers and now a regional manager for Team CBM. Her words painted a picture of a community that values deep personal connections and collective growth.
The merger promises substantial benefits to Front Royal, bringing enhanced services and opportunities for home ownership that were previously out of reach for many residents. This union is a merger of two companies and a fusion of cultures and aspirations, aiming to enrich the local community while maintaining the cherished CBM brand identity.
Attendees left the event with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future, confident in the continued prosperity and communal strength of Front Royal.
Local News
Congratulations to Warren County High School Seniors – Class of 2024
Royal Examiner presents the Warren County High School Class of 2024. Congratulations to these wonderful seniors on their hard work and deserved accomplishments! We wish you the best in your next big endeavors. Photos courtesy of Victor O’Neill Studios and Tolliver Studios, LLC.
If your Warren County senior is not listed, please send in their Name and Senior Picture to news@royalexaminer.com.