Local News
FRPD settles into its new home with a smile – and continued unpacking
Above, FRPD Chief Kahle Magalis greets the media in public entranceway lobby of the new town police headquarters at 900 Monroe Ave. Photos/Roger Bianchini
On Monday, April 29, one week after the Front Royal Police Department transferred its base of operations out of the old and into the new, Chief Kahle Magalis offered the media a tour of that new. The new is the department’s new headquarters at Monroe Avenue’s intersection with Kendrick Lane. And while the length of the building runs along Kendrick, with its public entrance facing Monroe the address is 900 Monroe Avenue.
Greeting media at the public entrance and parking lot on Monroe Avenue, one of the first stops was what Chief Magalis described as a public meeting room.
“If somebody needs a meeting space and we’re able to make it happen for them then we’ll do that. This is the citizen’s building, we’re just living in it,” Magalis said of the community’s $10-million investment in a state-of-the-art police headquarters. It is an investment designed to take the department out of the past – a past that has included inadequate space to house the department under one roof since before its 2013 move into the old Jackson Street sheriff’s office – into a future forecast to stretch 40 years forward into the neighborhood of 2060.
Not far off the public entranceway a meeting room is available for citizen activities upon scheduled request – we hear the security is excellent.
Which one media humorist present – guess who – pointed out likely means the Front Royal Town Councils of that era will probably accomplish replacing the then 41-year-old building by the year 2100.
But today’s move – better late than never – is from the 7,236 square foot former Warren County Sheriff’s Office, as well as whatever square footage the department’s investigations unit occupied in the Town’s Comcast building on North Royal Avenue, into a two-building complex totaling 21,000 s.f., 14,600 s.f. in the front, main structure and 6,400 s.f. in the second, westernmost building. The last Town-owned police headquarters in the former post office at the intersection of West Main Street and Luray Avenue totaled 4,032 s.f.
So Magalis suggested visitors used to FRPD’s past locations not overreact to a sense of spaciousness in the new headquarters. “They designed it with that in mind, to accommodate that future expansion – that’s the new place. We’re tickled to death with it; we really are,” the chief said of his department’s reaction to its move. That department currently employs 52 staff, including 39 sworn law enforcement officers and 13 civilian support staff.
Built to last – architect’s aerial perspective on the 21,000 s.f. FRPD facility projected to serve 40 years of town and departmental growth
While moving into a single location, modern headquarters is the realization of a professional dream for the department’s personnel the chief noted that fatigue may be the dominant reaction thus far. To a great extent the move had to be accomplished by department personnel due to the nature of the materials being moved relating to law enforcement activity and equipment. But the department should be ready to celebrate, along with the citizens they serve, by the time an open house scheduled for the first week of June rolls around.
How is the adjustment to the new digs going, we asked the chief.
“It’s going to take some time – it’s like crawling out of a cave into functioning society, but we’re working on it,” he laughed in response.
The communications room was manned by Cassie Courtney during the April 29 media tour
Magalis said he has already observed a positive professional impact from moving the department under one roof. “You can walk down the hall instead of a couple blocks over to holler at people … the guys are seeing each other, the detectives are seeing each other at lunch or whatever – it’s just through the course of having that contact the information gets passed along faster.
Speaking of lunch we saw a nice kitchen, as well as some break areas spread through the facility – and even managed to score a donut from one of two boxes brought over by a new citizen neighbor. “Michael Williams brought these over,” this reporter exclaimed upon the news – “Oh yea, he owes me a donut from way back, I think, mind if I collect?” I asked, making sure a bust for stealing departmental assets wasn’t to follow my foray into the donut box.
Moving from the main, front building into the courtyard separating the two-building complex, Magalis and Major Kevin Nicewarner pointed to the stone wall separating FRPD from the rear of neighboring residential homes. Magalis and his major noted that the wall was designed to minimize noise and lighting consequences of the department’s presence from the closest of its new neighbors.
Above, Chief Magalis and Major Nicewarner in the outside lounge between the two buildings; below a neighborly wall – constructed not only for security, but to minimize departmental noise and night lighting from neighbors.
“We’ll still be out here slamming car doors at two or three o’clock in the morning; radios will be going off and everything else; so you want to try to be as environmentally friendly with the neighbors as possible,” Magalis observed.
“We’re trying to keep as much normalcy in the neighborhood as possible,” Magalis said of shielding the light and noise pollution of 24-hour-a-day police activity from neighbors.
The chief said there were still punch list tweaks to the building being accomplished by the contractor, primarily on the outside – though one suddenly pumping, unused air nozzle in the enclosed back garage area gave a noisy punctuation to the ongoing punch list work.
As we made our way back through the facility it was observed that the building had that “new car smell” to it, though perhaps more appropriately it should have been “new PD smell” – though none of us present had likely ever experienced the scent of the latter previously, at least not without a visit to an outside jurisdiction.
But no more, right here in River City law enforcement has met the 21st Century – and they like what they have found there.
Captain Crystal Cline welcomes the press to the second building housing an enclosed garage – recalcitrant air hose hangs from ceiling between utility vehicle and motorcycle; and K-9 units among other things. The main staff parking lot is visible beyond dog run and garage bay doors at the western end of complex.
Officer Bryan House at work at computer terminal in common area leading to break room
Above, Patrol Division briefing room; below a schedule and event board; and below that a clean captain’s office
There is a physical component to the job – portion of the gym and staff lockers beyond
The bike patrol room needs a little work
Evidence lockers and evidence collection materials
Above, the chief in main break area; and yes, even law enforcement officers get some down time
Facility dedication plaque near front of main building
A view of Kendrick Lane out the front public entrance-lobby area where the chief greeted us to begin the tour
Patrol cars re-entering the facility
Chamber News
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Celebrates New Mental Health Facility in Front Royal
The Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the opening of Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, LLC, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event welcomed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Rebecca Myers-Settle and her new practice to the community.
Mayor Lori Cockrell praised the initiative as a valuable addition to local healthcare services. “I’m very excited to be here today with Becky. She’s a long-time member of our community and brings a needed service to our community. Mental health is the issue, and there are not enough providers. I cannot stress that enough,” she said.
Rebecca Myers-Settle, a long-time resident of Warren County, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the community’s support. “This is an exciting day. It’s been a long time coming. It’s a huge dream of mine. I am so blessed to be able to be here today and make this come to fruition,” she shared.
Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, located at 624 Virginia Avenue in a charming Victorian house, aims to provide patients with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The practice offers mental health services to individuals of all ages, addressing various needs from youth to the elderly.
Rebecca’s background is impressive, with a bachelor’s in nursing from Shenandoah University, a master’s in healthcare management and nursing education, and a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Her extensive training equips her to address the community’s mental health needs effectively.
During a brief interview after the ceremony, Rebecca explained her motivation for opening the practice. “I wanted to open a mental health practice here because it is a certified need in Warren County and surrounding areas. Being able to offer this service opens access to care for individuals. I want it to be inviting, warm, and cozy,” she said.
The practice’s approach includes both direct and referral-based access to services. “We receive referrals from physicians, hospitals, and even through our website. It’s an open referral process because sometimes people need someone to listen to them, and that’s what I’m here for,” Rebecca noted.
Rebecca also highlighted her commitment to supporting local healthcare workers, law enforcement, and first responders. “I wanted to have a place for our healthcare workers, law enforcement, and first responders to come and have a person to listen to and understand,” she said.
The ribbon-cutting event began a new chapter for mental health services in Front Royal. As the community continues to face various challenges, the addition of Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare provides a crucial resource for those needing mental health support.
For more information about Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, LLC, visit their website or welcoming office at 624 Virginia Avenue, Front Royal. Rebecca and her team are ready to help all community members on their mental health journeys.
Local News
Youth Contest Winners Showcase Revolutionary War Knowledge
On May 18, 2024, the Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) held a special ceremony to honor the winners of their annual youth contests. These contests, designed to foster an appreciation for American history, saw enthusiastic student participation across the region.
The SAR sponsors a poster contest for fourth graders (or those in grades where the American Revolution is taught). This year, students created two-dimensional posters based on events from the Revolutionary War. Participants came from public and private schools, scouting programs, and other youth groups. The top three winners received monetary awards, and the first-place winner advanced to the Virginia State Contest.
Poster Contest Winners
First place in the poster contest was awarded to Audrey Turman Bayliss for her exceptional depiction of a Revolutionary War event. Audrey’s poster also earned her a fourth-place finish at the Virginia State Contest, showcasing her talent and dedication. Second place went to Phoebe Buck, third to Nick Bosacco, and fourth to Eve Tipton.
Audrey Turman Bayliss, poster sent to Virginia State Contest. Photos courtesy of Thomas “Chip” Daniel.
, l. to r. Paul Christensen (Chapter President), Audrey Turman Bayliss, Phoebe Buck, Nick Bosacco, Eve Tipton, Brian Bayliss (Youth Committee Chair).
Brochure Contest Winners
For middle school students, the SAR conducts a brochure contest open to students in grades 6 through 9, including those in private, church-based, and home-school settings. The contest is also open to members of scouting and the Children of the American Revolution when their schools do not participate. Students create a tri-fold brochure based on one of the five foundational documents of the United States. These brochures are judged on content, creativity, and correctness.
Katie Tipton took first place in the brochure contest, impressing judges with her insightful and well-crafted brochure. Her work will now compete at the Virginia State Contest. Second place was awarded to Carley Bosacco and third place to Bethany Tipton. Like the poster contest, the top three winners received monetary awards.
. l. to r. Paul Christensen (Chapter President), Katie Tipton, Carley Bosacco, Bethany Tipton and Brian Bayliss (Youth Committee Chair).
Honoring Excellence and Encouraging Historical Appreciation
The ceremony underscored the importance of engaging young students in studying American history and recognizing their efforts and achievements. The Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the SAR is proud to support educational initiatives that promote an understanding of the nation’s foundational events and documents.
Brian Bayliss, Chair of the Chapter’s Youth Committee, highlighted the significance of these contests in his remarks. “These young historians have shown remarkable talent and dedication in their work. We are proud to support their educational journeys and encourage a deep appreciation for our nation’s history.”
Additional information about the contests and how to participate, please visit the National Society Sons of the American Revolution website or contact the Colonel James Wood II Chapter Youth Committee Chair, Brian Bayliss, at ruralvirginia@gmail.com.
Community Events
Confederate Memorial Day Service Held in Front Royal
On May 23, 2024, the Warren Rifles Chapter #934, United Daughters of the Confederacy, Colonel John S. Mosby Camp #1237, and the Sons of Confederate Veterans hosted a Confederate Memorial Day Service at the Warren Rifles Confederate Museum in Front Royal, Virginia. The event honored those who fought in the Civil War, particularly highlighting the significance of the Battle of Front Royal, which took place on the same date in 1862.
Patricia McMillen from the Warren Rifles Chapter #934 opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks. She introduced the guest speaker, Aaron Siever, a Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Trust ranger. Seager, who has a background in law enforcement and holds a degree in history and criminal justice from Liberty University, shared his extensive knowledge of the Battle of Front Royal. He also runs a YouTube channel, “Aaron’s Civil War Trails,” exploring various Civil War sites.
Aaron Seager provided an engaging and detailed recount of the Battle of Front Royal. He began by discussing the strategic importance of the battle, which is often overshadowed by larger conflicts of the Civil War. Siever explained how Confederate General Stonewall Jackson, who had gained fame after the First Battle of Manassas, was ordered to the Shenandoah Valley District in late 1861. Despite facing challenges, Jackson’s aggressive strategies played a crucial role in the Confederate victories.
Seager highlighted Jackson’s early campaigns, including the unsuccessful attack on Dam Number 5 and the grueling Romney campaign. He emphasized Jackson’s determination and how his bold actions often outpaced the Union’s movements. By early 1862, Jackson’s forces actively engaged Union troops, demonstrating their resolve and tactical prowess.
The Battle of Front Royal
As Siever recounted, the Battle of Front Royal occurred on May 23, 1862, with Jackson’s forces targeting a small Union garrison under Colonel John R. Kenly. Jackson’s troops, including the renowned Louisiana Tigers and the 1st Maryland Infantry (Confederate), launched a surprise attack. Despite being outnumbered, Kenly’s forces initially held their ground but were eventually overwhelmed by the Confederate assault.
Siever shared anecdotes about the intense fighting, including the bravery of the Confederate troops and the Union soldiers’ tenacity. He mentioned notable figures like Richard Taylor, who commanded the Louisiana brigade, and Belle Boyd, a Confederate spy who provided crucial intelligence.
The victory at Front Royal had significant strategic implications. It forced Union General Nathaniel Banks to retreat from Strasburg, leaving the Shenandoah Valley under Confederate control. This victory, though smaller in scale, demonstrated Jackson’s effective leadership and the importance of the Shenandoah Valley in the broader context of the Civil War.
Honoring the Fallen
The service also included a benediction, reflecting on the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides. The community gathered to honor their heritage and remember the historical significance of the events in their town over a century ago.
The Confederate Memorial Day Service in Front Royal not only commemorated a pivotal battle but also served as a reminder of the complexities and enduring legacy of the Civil War. The stories Aaron Seager shared, as well as the attendees’ reflections, underscored the importance of remembering and learning from history.
Local News
Skyline Middle School Celebrates 8th Grade Achievements
Skyline Middle School held a special ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of its eighth-grade students, recognizing their academic achievements and exemplary character. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the student’s hard work, resilience, and dedication.
Assistant Principal and Eighth Grade Administrator Sherry Doane opened the ceremony with a warm welcome. “We are here to honor academic victories and examples of admirable character as described in the SOAR expectations of showing respect, owning your actions, acting out of kindness, and remembering that responsibility is the key to our success,” she said. Doane encouraged students to carry these values into their high school years, emphasizing the importance of engaging in school activities to create lasting memories.
The Most Improved Awards recognized students who showed significant progress throughout the year. Cody Davis and Amirah Porter received this honor for their hard work and determination.
The Pathways and Connections Special Education Teacher Pam Waters presented the Hawk Pride Award to Giovanni Solis-Sasa. This award recognized a student who showed remarkable personal growth at Skyline Middle School.
The ceremony concluded with recognizing students who achieved a 4.0 GPA and those with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99. These students were celebrated for their academic excellence and dedication throughout middle school.
Principal Dr. Robert Johnson closed the ceremony by thanking parents for their support and encouraging students to continue their hard work and pursue their passions as they transition to high school.
Skyline Middle School’s eighth-grade celebration was a touching event, highlighting the achievements and potential of its students. The ceremony served as a reminder of the importance of education, community, and character as the students prepare for the next chapter in their academic journey.
Local News
Remembering the Gettysburg Address on Memorial Day
As Memorial Day approaches, it is a poignant time to recall the enduring words of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, delivered during the Civil War on November 19, 1863. Spoken at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Lincoln’s brief yet profound speech resonates as a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made by those who have fought for the United States.
Lincoln’s address at Gettysburg was more than just a ceremonial speech; it was a reflection on the very essence of American ideals and the immense cost of war. In his speech, Lincoln emphasized the significance of the battlefield, where thousands gave their lives, as a sacred ground that no words could adequately honor: “We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract.”
This Memorial Day, Lincoln’s words remind us of the ongoing commitment required from each of us to continue the work those soldiers so nobly advanced. The address challenges us to dedicate ourselves anew to the cause of freedom and to ensure that the government “of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
As we remember those who have fallen, Lincoln’s message endures as a call to cherish and uphold the values for which they bravely fought. This Memorial Day, let us reflect on their sacrifice, draw inspiration from their dedication, and renew our commitment to the principles that define our nation. Lincoln’s timeless words continue to inspire a sense of duty and remembrance, reminding us that the ultimate tribute to the fallen is a nation that remains free, just, and united.
Local News
Virginia State Police Urge Safety and Sobriety on Roads as Summer Begins
As the summer season kicks off with the 2024 Memorial Day weekend and graduation festivities, the Virginia State Police emphasize the importance of safe, sober, and focused driving. With AAA Mid-Atlantic predicting a four percent increase in Memorial Day travel, Virginia’s highways are expected to be especially crowded. This heightened activity comes with increased risks, as evidenced by the nine fatal crashes reported on Memorial Day weekend in 2023.
“By May 23, 2024, Virginia has already lost 294 lives to traffic crashes this year,” said Colonel Gary T. Settle, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “During this busy time, it’s crucial for drivers to slow down, buckle up, avoid distractions, and drive sober. We must also talk to our teenagers and young adult drivers about safe driving behaviors. While many are celebrating the end of the school year and the start of summer, too many Virginians are mourning the loss of loved ones. Let’s prioritize traffic safety to prevent further tragedies.”
Starting Friday, May 24, 2024, the Virginia State Police will join the national Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E) to reduce crashes, fatalities, and injuries related to impaired driving, speeding, and seatbelt violations. The Memorial Day statistical counting period will begin at 12:01 a.m. on May 24 and continue through midnight on May 27, 2024. Throughout the holiday weekend, all available state police troopers and supervisors will be on patrol to ensure safe and responsible traffic flow.
During the last Memorial Day weekend, Virginia State Troopers issued 771 seatbelt violation citations and 136 child restraint violations. They also cited 4,990 speeders and 1,924 reckless drivers and arrested 89 impaired drivers. Additionally, troopers made 169 felony arrests, assisted 1,447 disabled motorists, investigated 1,846 traffic crashes, and inspected 634 commercial vehicles.
The funds from summonses issued by the Virginia State Police go to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which supports public school construction, technology funding, and teacher retirement.
Drivers are also reminded of recent changes to Virginia’s “Move Over” law, which now requires motorists to either move over a lane or slow down for any vehicle on the roadside using emergency markers, flashing lights, or flares.
Colonel Settle’s message is clear: “This is a time for celebration and making memories, not mourning. By following traffic laws and practicing safe driving habits, we can all contribute to a safer holiday weekend and summer.”
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