Summer Show 2022: Peter Pan
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
Italia Performing Arts is pleased to present its Summer Show 2022 “Peter Pan”, our own adaptation for dance of J.M. Barrie’s novel “Peter and Wendy”. This year again, our dancers in every style will be featured in this two act production. The music has been composed especially for this production by Dr Ryan Keebaugh.
This year we are presenting two performances:
- Friday June 17th, 6:00 pm: featuring younger Winchester Ballet and Acro dancers
- Saturday June 18th, 1:00 pm: featuring Edinburg Ballet and Acro dancers
The main cast and older dancers will appear in both performances. Parents have been informed when their students will dance.
This year we are selling the full 800 seats for each performance, as we expect no Covid-19 related restrictions. So we have plenty of tickets available for your family and friends.
Tickets are on sale through our ticket agency SimpleTix, and not at Italia studios. All seating is reserved. We will have DVDs available after the event for those who cannot attend in person, or as keepsakes.
To buy tickets, go to italiapa.simpletix.com.
Premium tickets (auditorium front rows and center): $35.00 ($30.00 for under 16s) Regular tickets (sides of auditorium): $25.00 ($20.00 for under 16s) Budget tickets (back of auditorium): $20.00 ($15.00 for under 16s) Any tickets still available on the day of the show will still be sold only through SimpleTix. No tickets will be sold at the door.
We look forward to seeing you at our show!
Local News
Eastham Park Loop Enhanced with New Safety Measures for Pedestrians
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
As the athletic, recreational, and outdoor community expands in Front Royal, ensuring safe and accessible infrastructure remains a priority. Recognizing that the Eastham Park to Skyline High School to West Criser Road loop is a heavily trafficked recreational route, the Front Royal Advisory Committee for Environmental Sustainability (ACES) sought ways to improve the loop’s safety.
The section of West Criser Road that completes this loop was identified as a critical area needing attention. With its narrow shoulder and reduced visibility along a curve, this stretch was particularly dangerous due to the high traffic speeds. The road is used recreationally and is a main pathway for students traveling to and from Skyline High and Middle Schools. Additionally, it’s a key part of a local 5K course hosted by Shenandoah Valley Runners.
Over the past two years, ACES collaborated with Front Royal’s Department of Public Works to improve this stretch of road. During a scheduled repaving project, the team widened the road to provide additional shoulder space and added a double-white line to highlight the new shoulder. Recognizing further improvements were needed, ACES partnered with the Rotary Club of Front Royal to fundraise for vertical delineators along the entire stretch. These vertical markers create a tangible barrier between the roadway and the pedestrian path, enhancing visibility and safety.
The response to the new delineators has been overwhelmingly positive. One longtime runner wrote, “I’ve always wanted to complete the Eastham Park Loop but would turn back at West Criser Road because of the high traffic and limited visibility. The new delineators encouraged me to run that stretch, and I completed the loop for the first time ever.”
With this recent success, ACES is now examining further pedestrian infrastructure improvements along West Criser Road between Route 340 and the back entrance of Skyline High School. The project was made possible through ongoing collaboration with the Department of Public Works, contributions from the Rotary Club of Front Royal, and generous support from over 15 community donors.
ACES remains dedicated to promoting safe and accessible outdoor activities in Front Royal. Visit their website to learn more about their efforts or attend a monthly meeting on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the back of Vibrissa.
Obituaries
William Jesper Brandt (1995 – 2024)
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Jesper Brandt, 28, on April 20, 2024, in Linden, VA. Will was born on July 15, 1995, at Alexandria Hospital and spent his entire life in Linden. He attended Hilda J. Barbour Elementary School before graduating from Highland School in Warrenton, Virginia. For the last 2.5 years, Will courageously lived with cancer.
William Jesper Brandt
He is survived by his parents, Pernille Brandt and Beth Pinner, as well as his sister, Maggie (Todd), and his two brothers, Malachi and Omarion. Will is also lovingly remembered by his grandparents, Lisen Brandt and Thomas Brandt of Denmark and Margaret and William Pinner of Sterling, VA. He leaves behind a wide circle of beloved family members and friends, both locally and internationally, including his online friends.
Before his illness, Will worked at Naked Mountain Winery. He cherished reading, watching movies, playing board games with his gaming friends, and connecting with his online community. Known for his generous spirit, he was always ready to offer a comforting hug or helping hand. He was a devoted member of Leeds Episcopal Church in Markham, VA.
Will participated in several cancer trials and selflessly chose to donate his body to science through VDH’s Whole Body Donation program. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Leeds Feeds or the blessing boxes by sending a check to:
Leeds Episcopal Church
4332 Leeds Manor Rd,
Markham, VA 22643
(Please add “Leeds Feeds” or “Blessing Box” in the memo)
Alternatively, contributions can be made to Finley’s Green Leap Forward by giving online at finleysgreenleap.org or by mailing a check made out to “Finley’s Green Leap Forward” to:
Finley’s Green Leap Forward
6437 Old Bust Head Road
Broad Run, VA 20137
May Will’s kind spirit continue to inspire us all.
Interesting Things to Know
The Mystical Origins of “Abracadabra”: A Journey Through Time and Magic
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
Imagine a neighborhood kid performing magic tricks for younger children. The kid magician might use the word “abracadabra” to amaze the crowd, unknowingly invoking a word steeped in ancient history and magic. This iconic term, which dates back more than 1,800 years, was first recorded by Quintus Serenus Sammonicus, a Roman nobleman, tutor, and medical writer.
In the second century A.D., Sammonicus wrote “Liber Medicinalis” (Book of Medicine), a medical poem in which he recommended “abracadabra” as a remedy for fever. He advised writing the word on parchment, arranging it in a downward-pointing triangle, with each subsequent line shorter than the previous one until only a single letter remained. The parchment would then be worn around the neck of the sick person. This unusual remedy was widely used, as evidenced by numerous papyrus fragments discovered over the years bearing the magic word.
Despite its ancient origins, the meaning of “abracadabra” remains a topic of debate. One theory is that it derives from the Hebrew phrase “ebrah k’dabri,” meaning “I create as I speak.” Another suggests it comes from “ha brachah dabarah,” meaning “name of the blessed.” Regardless of its exact meaning, “abracadabra” has been associated with magic and healing for centuries.
The word also found its way into modern literature. In J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, the forbidden killing curse “avada kedavra” is similar to “abracadabra” and translates from Aramaic as “the thing that must be destroyed.” This demonstrates how ancient and modern magic intersects, with “abracadabra” remaining an enduring symbol of the mystical and unknown.
Obituaries
Charles Edward Finneyfrock (1957 – 2024)
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
Charles Edward Finneyfrock, 66, of Front Royal VA, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, April 28th.
Charles (Chuck) was born October 13th, 1957, in Montgomery, MD, the son of Charlotte Lee Wolfe of Georgia and the late Stanley Filmore Finneyfrock. He was a carpenter by trade most of his life, and even though he retired, carpentry was always his passion. Chuck very much enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers and son.
Chuck was preceded in death by his wife Debbie Finneyfrock; brothers: Ricky Finneyfrock, Stanley (Bubby) Finneyfrock, and sister Nancy Polaski.
He is survived by his son: Shawn Finneyfrock and daughter-in-law Krissy Boyd of Front Royal; his daughter: Theresa Harmon (Finneyfrock) and son-in-law Jimmy Harmon of Toms Brook; brothers: Kenny Finneyfrock, Gary Finneyfrock, and sister: Donna Lloyd; grandchildren: Shawnee Boyd, Troy Harmon, Adam Harmon, and great-grandchild: Easten Harmon, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life for friends and family will be held at the Front Royal Community Center (538 Villa Ave. Front Royal Va, 22630) on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, from 1-5 pm.
Health
Treating Arthritis: Why Walking Can Be a ‘Walk in the Park’ for Your Health
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
May is National Arthritis Month, and the Arthritis Foundation encourages those with arthritis to focus on maintaining a high quality of life. Although arthritis can be challenging, there are steps you can take to manage its impact and prevent further joint damage.
General Tips for Prevention:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Excess weight can put extra stress on your knee and hip joints. - Exercise Regularly:
Staying active can help keep your joints strong and flexible. - Eat Well:
A nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables supports overall health.
Understanding Osteoarthritis (OA):
The most common form of arthritis, OA occurs when cartilage at the ends of bones deteriorates over time. Bones can rub together without this cushioning, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Walking is a simple yet effective way to manage OA and stay active. Other benefits include:
- Strengthening muscles and enhancing flexibility.
- Improving cardiovascular health.
- Keeping bones strong helps prevent osteoporosis.
- Improving insulin use to help prevent diabetes.
- Burning calories to aid in weight management.
- Building strong muscles around joints for extra protection.
Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
RA is an autoimmune disorder that causes early joint damage. The American College of Rheumatology recommends starting therapy within three months of diagnosis to relieve symptoms and prevent further damage to bones and joints. Medications can significantly reduce the effects of RA.
The Importance of Walking:
For those with arthritis, walking offers multiple health benefits while helping alleviate joint pain and stiffness. It’s an accessible and effective way to remain active and strengthen the body without putting undue stress on the joints.
Take Action This National Arthritis Month:
Use May to incorporate more walks into your daily routine, consult a healthcare provider about appropriate treatments, and celebrate your journey toward improved joint health.
Obituaries
John Anthony Dangerfield (1924 – 2024)
151 Skyline Vista Dr
Front Royal VA 22630
John Anthony Dangerfield was born in Linden, Virginia, on July 27, 1924. He was the fifth of eight children born to the late Anthony Thomas and Effie Hackley Dangerfield.
John Anthony Dangerfield (1924 – 2024)
John joined the US Army and served in the South Pacific during WWII. His military photograph is included in the publication African Americans of Fauquier County and is also on exhibit in the African American Museum of Fauquier County.
John married the former Pearl Margretta Mitchell on August 7, 1948, at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, Happy Creek, Va. His beloved daughter Toronda Dangerfield-Pittman was born from this loving union.
John was a truck driver at American Viscose/Avtex for 42 years. After retiring at 65 years young, he began what was likely his most notable occupation. John started a career as a school crossing guard. He served the town’s children every morning in front of Ressie Jeffries Elementary School. In September 2011, at the young age of 87, Mayor Tim Darr and the Front Royal Town Council recognized him for 21 years of service. The Warren County Report did a feature article describing him as “a familiar and comforting presence.”
John loved Mt. Morris Baptist Church. He joined under the Pastorate of Rev. William Gibbs and was baptized by the Rev. Philip Baltimore. His membership extended during the tenure of five pastors, including Rev. Ed White, Rev. Lindsay Greene, and the current Shepherd of the Flock, Rev. Ralph J. Williams. John sang in the choir, served on the usher board, and as a trustee for over 50 years. During his term on the board, renovations were made to the fellowship hall and the church parking lot.
Being the last surviving sibling in the Dangerfield family, he assumed the role of Patriarch. He provided a legacy of wisdom, knowledge, ancestral history, and, most importantly, love.
John loved visiting Toronda for Thanksgiving dinners and spending time with “her babies”. After years of shoveling mountain-deep snow, John relocated to Richmond, where he resided with Toronda and her family. While there, she honored her father with an enormous 95th birthday celebration.
John resided at the Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center as his health required increased care. He always kept a song in his heart! He would serenade loved ones over the phone with hymns he learned through the years. John loved his visits from Chuckie and his phone conversations with Ida.
On April 24, 2024, John relocated yet again. This time, he made his final transition to a holy city where the streets were paved with gold. John went to see the King!
John leaves to cherish his memory a daughter, Toronda Dangerfield-Pittman; two grandchildren, Airial Epes and Garry Callis, Jr.; three great-grandchildren, Aryanna, Makiyh, and Avani; and a sister-in-law, Chandell Mitchell. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pearl Mitchell Dangerfield. John shared very special relationships with Charles Kenner, who was like a son, and Ida Dowe, a life-long friend, as well as a host of beloved family and very dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 10, 2024, at the Mt. Morris Baptist Church. It is located at 5342 Leeds Manor Road, Hume, Virginia. Rev. Ralph J. Williams will officiate. The viewing will be at 10:00 a.m. and the Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m.
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