Here is a photo and video feature of this year’s “A Taste for Books: British Invasion” themed fundraiser for Samuels Public Library at the library on Saturday evening, April 27. We wondered if the 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. or so “invasion” was as successful as it appeared to be, as well as fun for all involved. So, we reached out to management at the library for details. We heard back from Library Board of Trustees President Melody Hotek, who told us that while final numbers hadn’t yet been tabulated, “This was a stellar year in attendance, Table Hosts, and Silent Auction items, so I am anticipating that we will surpass our goal of $25,000.

“Over the next week, pictures will be posted and final numbers will be tallied, but on this Monday, the Library wants to say a great big Thank You! We are grateful for each and every contribution and the overwhelming support of our wonderful community. No way around it, “A Taste for Books” is always the best party in town!” Hotek enthused, rightfully so it would seem this past Saturday.

Piped in by Gene Schultz and John Taylor of the Winchester Pipes and Drums group to begin a good-natured and often costumed ‘British Invasion’ culturally and musically. And let’s have a ‘JOLLY GOOD TIME’ as suggested at check-in. – Royal Examiner Still Photos Roger Bianchini

We also asked about the “British Invasion” theme’s origin. “Each year the theme is decided on by the committee made up of the Library managers and staff. British Invasion was our 11th year and my 7th year helping to coordinate the event. Next year’s theme will be “A Taste for Books: Movie Magic”.

But how could it be more magical than this year’s “British Invasion” which included references to Stonehenge, Harry Potter, and the historically long running Brit TV sci-fi series “Doctor Who” — not to mention the rather musically magical British Invasion of the rock & roll, pop music scene of the 1960s and ’70s?!? I guess time and a borrowed TARDIS from Dr. Who will tell.

For us sci-fi fans from the BBC classic ‘Dr. Who’, the TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension In Space) time-and-space machine disguised as a Bobby’s police call box – Don’t forget, it’s bigger on the inside than on the outside.

The Library Trustees President also wanted to be sure to acknowledge all the Table Hosts, local business Sponsors, and awards winners. And we will accommodate that request, beginning with the Table Hosts of which Ms. Hotek observed, “Table Hosts provided all the wonderful appetizer ‘tastes’ for the guests and we are so grateful to them. This year we had a lot of new and returning organizations and businesses.”

Those Table Hosting businesses included, with acknowledgements as awarded: Garcia & Gavino, *Penny Lane Hair Co. – Best Table Decoration, Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, *Main Street Geek – Best Food Award, *ARC of Warren Co. – Best Costume, Warren County Retired Teachers, Randolph Macon Academy, *Warren County Heritage Society – Best Table Decoration, *Front Royal Warren Co Chamber of Commerce – Best Table Decoration, *Stone Branch Center for the Arts – Best Food Award, Warren-Front Royal Appalachian Trail Committee, *Beautification of Front Royal Committee – Best Food Award, *Front Royal Warren County Tree Stewards – Best Costume Award, Friends of Samuels Library (FOSL), Epilogue Bookstore, City of Winchester Pipes and Drums, additional food provided by Apple House & Ledo’s.

Pictured from the Penny Lane Hair Co. winning food decoration table, Salon owner Mallory Deinert, Sue Laurence as The Beatle lyrically referenced ‘Walrus’, and Nichole Turpin, apparently as the real walrus in a human costume. Below are some of “British Music Invasion” Beatle/Liverpool-themed Penny Lane Salon decor with what we recall as a Yellow Submarine character reference in the third photo. Courtesy Photos Parson Brown

Separate Prizes were awarded to guests for Best Costume, Hotek observed, “Dressed as Monty Python characters were Jessica and Will Cahill, Diane Schmiedicke was ready for an Equestrian horse race and the Queen was represented by Mary Bennett.”

As to musical accompaniment, as noted in the opening caption the event’s grand opening was kicked off by two bagpipers from the City of Winchester Pipes and Drums group, Gene Schultz and John Taylor. And in one area of the building British Invasion band music was piped in and in the main section guests were treated to a string trio by Annabelle, Georgia and Kelby Grady.

Hotek also told us, “We are extremely grateful to Hot-Shots Photography for sponsoring and photographing the guests. This year our guests had their Royal Portrait taken and went home with a souvenir bordered by the British flag.

“Many other local businesses, wineries, theaters, and artists donated gift cards and items for the Silent Auction and game prize drawings making this a ‘Jolly Good’ evening all around. Fifteen of our guests went home with a grab bag worth between $40-60 for playing our British Icons game,” Hotek noted.

Excitement began peaking as winners of silent auctions and other prizes were announced.

We will conclude this with a “Thank you” to Samuels Public Library and all of its supporting patrons and businesses for making this year’s fundraiser a memorable one.

Some more photos will follow this list of Sponsors, as noted by Hotek “vital to the success of the event.” Those sponsors include: First Bank, Target, Royal Examiner, Northern Virginia Daily, Mountain Home Bed & Breakfast, Front Royal Dental Care Dr. Frederick Broadhead and Dr. Daisy Broadhead, Mountain Laurel Montessori School, Total Wine & More, the Ambrose Family, and the Samuels Library Board members, past and present.

And let’s try to get those London and Liverpool accents right, along with all those in between. That shouldn’t be a problem for this

right, and the ancient astronomical knowledge front as hinted at, at Stonehenge, pictured to their left. And speaking of ancient knowledge, there is Harry Potter sneaking into a food table display below, just in front of the Garcia & Gavino table snacks.

We followed this Colonially garbed couple into the deeper reaches of Samuels Public Library to see what other British Invasion fronts we could find, and we discovered another musical invasion option of a more classical nature provided by Annabelle, Georgia and Kelby Grady, one of whom appeared to be on break when we arrived. Seems there was a little something for everyone. And a final look at the winning food decoration table of the Penny Lane Hair Salon, well just because we like well-decorated food and The Beatles.

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.

School Division Superintendent Christopher Ballenger (right), on May 1, introduced School Board members to Jennifer Cameron (left), the new 2024-2025 principal at Leslie Fox Keyser Elementary School.

“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.”

Click here to watch the School Board’s May 1 meeting.

Brenda Sue Steele aged 57, passed away on April 30^th, 2024, after a courageous battle with stage 4 breast cancer. She departed peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.

Brenda Sue Steele

Born on June 22, 1966, Brenda was born to Bobby Clegg Sr. and Joyce Clegg in Front Royal, Virginia. Brenda touched the lives of those around her with her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Despite facing the challenges of her illness, she remained a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Brenda embodied kindness and compassion in everything she did. She was a local realtor for nearly 20 years and her husband Donald’s right hand in their local construction business. Her selflessness and generosity knew no bounds, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of family and friends alike. Her legacy of infinite love will be cherished forever by all who had the privilege of sharing time in her journey.

Brenda is survived by the love of her life of 38 years, Donald “Hopper” Steele, her daughter who was her pride and joy, Brooklyn Steele (Nathan), and the absolute shining light of her life, her grandson Camden St. Clair. She is also survived by her loving parents, Bob and Joyce Clegg, and her best friends and siblings, Barbara Penkunas (Jeff) and Bobby Lee Clegg Jr. Brenda is also survived by many beloved family and friends, including a special niece whom she loved and raised as her own, Rylee Barnett. Brenda’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her strength and positive outlook on life will continue to inspire generations to come.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 7th, at the Front Royal Baptist Temple, 25 W 18^th Street. The family will receive visitors from 2 pm to 3 pm, with the service immediately following at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Blue Ridge Hospice in Brenda’s honor for the love and outstanding care they gave her.

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.

The dining scene embraces an old tradition with a modern twist as communal tables make a comeback in restaurants nationwide. From the bustling streets of New York, Chicago, and Boston to smaller cities, these large tables that seat multiple parties are becoming increasingly popular.

Historically, communal tables were the norm in European inns and dining halls until the 19th century, when private tables began to emerge, first in Paris. Despite this shift in the West, communal seating continued to thrive in places like Japan and other parts of Asia. Today, as society grapples with the digital age’s isolating effects, these tables are reappearing in restaurants as spaces that foster social interaction and community building.

Sitting anywhere from 8 to 16 diners, communal tables are a nod to bygone eras and a smart business strategy for restaurateurs. They maximize seating capacity and provide a flexible option for accommodating larger groups, which might require complex arrangements of smaller tables.

For guests, the experience of dining at a communal table can be a leap out of their comfort zones. Yet, many find it a refreshing opportunity to engage with new people, turning what could be a simple meal into a memorable social event. The concept encourages diners to connect in an increasingly rare way in our screen-dominated lives, offering a chance to meet friends you never knew you had.

Whether you’re dining alone, with friends, or looking to make new ones, communal tables offer a unique culinary and social experience that combines the charm of historical dining practices with the dynamic needs of modern life. So next time you’re out, consider choosing the communal table—it might transform your dining experience.

On Saturday, May 18th, 2024, the streets of Front Royal will come alive with the vibrant and festive spirit of the 36th Annual Virginia Wine & Craft Festival. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Main and Chester Streets will transform into a bustling marketplace filled with the best Virginia offers in wine, crafts, and culinary delights.

The festival is a beloved tradition that showcases an array of Virginia’s finest wines, meads, and ciders. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in tastings that promise an unforgettable journey through the region’s renowned libations. This year’s event will also feature a new Kids Zone, ensuring that families enjoy a day filled with fun and engaging activities for all ages.

Artists and crafters from along the East Coast and local artisans and merchants will display their unique creations, ranging from handcrafted jewelry to bespoke ceramics. The array of goods will give festival-goers a perfect opportunity to find that special something, whether for themselves or as gifts.

No festival is complete without tantalizing food options; this year is no exception. From savory crab cake sandwiches to delicious shish kabobs, the food offerings will cater to every palate, ensuring no one goes hungry.

Live music will enhance the festival atmosphere, with performances by bands like A Thousand Faces, Bearded Harmony, and Back To Zero. Attendees should also stay alert for surprise performances and activities sprinkled throughout the event.

Tickets for the wine tasting are available for $30 in advance or $35 at the gate, with free general admission. They can be purchased online or at the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce office. The festival is a chance to enjoy the day and explore the broader attractions of Front Royal and Warren County, appealing to both leisure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The festival, presented by Discover Front Royal and Experience Warren County, is made possible thanks to local sponsors like Jennerations Hair Studio & Spa, Glo Fiber, Christine Binnix – McEnearney Associates, and Shotton Design.

For more information about the festival or to purchase tickets, visit the official website at www.wineandcraftfestival.com or contact the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce at 540-635-3185.