Local News
As Opening of Youth Center Draws Near, the Reaching Out Now Family Looks to the Past for Inspiration
As Samantha Barber and Toby Hire sat, side by side, holding hands on April 26 in a yet-to-be-furnished room of the Raymond E. Santmyers Student Union and Activity Center in Front Royal, Virginia, there was a very real sense of water, which is stopped by nothing. “Water is my serenity,” Samantha said in this conversation with the Royal Examiner. It maneuvers its way around any obstacle in its path, if not eroding the obstacle altogether, and that is precisely what the Reaching Out Now (RON) family, of which Samantha is the president, has done in its endeavor to provide Front Royal and the wider Warren County region with a youth center, opening soon, where students can come to play, relax, have fun, develop strong bonds of friendship, and explore what they want to do with their futures.
Reaching Out Now president Samantha Barber sits down with close friend Toby Hire to tell the story of what inspires the youth center. Royal Examiner Photo Credits: Brenden McHugh.
The youth center is necessary, and the stakes are life and death. The brilliant lives and tragic early departures of Harlee Hire and Nathan Jenkins, the first to suicide and the second to a boating accident, inform the RON family of their mission to reach young people. There is this awareness that life is incredibly fragile, and the only way to face it is through community. It is as simple as asking: “Are you okay?” That is precisely what RON intends to do through the youth center so that young people in Harlee’s position do not fall through the cracks.
A stream runs by the youth center. As Barber says: “Water is my serenity.” Harlee Hire loved the water. And when Nathan Jenkins’ mother, Susan, blessed the youth center, it immediately began to rain.
Harlee loved water. And by all appearances, she could overcome any obstacle. Through tears, “She was a great friend,” her mother Toby said as Samantha gripped her hand. Harlee practiced radical encouragement. It was not uncommon to hear her yelling shameless compliments like: “Your butt is looking fine today!” And even in the early months of 2022, after her friend Nathan’s boating accident in January and before she attempted suicide on May 10 and officially passed on May 11 and the Honor Walk donation of her organs on May 13 at UVA, she clung tenaciously to life. “I am going to do this, Miss Sam,” she told Samantha at a fashion show RON was hosting. And she walked down the runway.
Above: Harlee Hire in 2022 at the first Safe at Home event, a week before she departed. Below: Nathan Jenkins, whose honor the Nate (DAWG) Game Room at the youth center will be named. Photos courtesy of Toby Hire and Susan Jenkins.
“It is a sacrificial gift,” Samantha said of the youth center. “Nathan would have loved this,” Susan Jenkins said, standing outside the Santmyers building in May of 2023, and as soon as she said it, it began to rain. Indeed, a little fall of rain can hardly hurt me now, to quote the musical production of Les Miserables. There is a very real sense that both Harlee and Nathan continue to live through the youth center as the RON family remembers them and strives to reach young people in their position. Especially Harlee’s. While it is impossible to predict an accident like the one that occurred for Nathan, Samantha, and Toby both feel strongly that intervention is possible in the case of young people who are struggling with mental health issues.
In fact, May will be Mental Health Awareness Month for RON as they host three different athletic events in memory of Harlee and Nathan through their Safe at Home program. On May 9, a varsity girls’ softball game will be held at Skyline High School at 6 p.m. They will host a community baseball day on May 11, between 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Bing Crosby Stadium. And on May 25 at Skyline High School from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., they will host a community softball day. In order to get tickets, go to reachingoutnow.org
There is no need to be perfect. Samantha is frank about the impact this trauma has had on her health. “You have rheumatoid arthritis,” a doctor told her. He explained that she had internalized so much psychological pain that it had a very real manifestation in her physical health. But this is just one more obstacle that can be overcome through the support of friends offering real, physical comfort. You can be broken, Toby said. It is okay. It is the broken kids that RON wants to reach. If you are in trouble at school, we understand, Samantha emphasized. If you have weed in your backpack, we understand. This is not a matter of selecting the crème de la crème of students who are already gifted and exceptionally motivated. It is a matter of reaching all the kids and helping them understand their potential.
In the unfurnished room at the youth center, a room named in honor of Nathan and intended to be a game room, the Nate (DAWG) Game Room, Samantha, and Toby agree wholeheartedly that there is nothing wrong with just playing games if you are not playing them alone. Toby said this is the most connected yet disconnected age. The goal of the youth center is to help young people connect authentically.
Local News
Humane Society of Warren County Receives $10,000 Grant from Petco Love
The Humane Society of Warren County (HSWC) is thrilled to announce a significant boost to their animal welfare efforts with a $10,000 grant investment from Petco Love, a national nonprofit committed to improving the lives of pets and people in communities nationwide. This funding is part of Petco Love’s recent distribution of over $15 million in grants to support local organizations dedicated to saving animal lives.
Established in 1999, Petco Love has contributed $375 million to lifesaving activities and helped find homes for over 6.75 million pets through partnerships with Petco and thousands of organizations nationwide. The grant to HSWC is aimed at supporting the shelter’s efforts to care for and protect pets in Front Royal and Warren County, where the organization has been a beacon of hope for homeless and neglected animals.
“Our local investments are an integral part of our mission to ensure that no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Petco Love President Susanne Kogut. “We are committed to supporting the tireless efforts of organizations like the Humane Society of Warren County that share our vision and demonstrate a profound impact on the health and welfare of animals.”
The Humane Society of Warren County has a commendable track record, achieving a 96% save rate in 2023 and maintaining its status as a no-kill shelter. The grant will aid in providing essential care and improving the facilities that house numerous pets annually, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment while awaiting adoption.
“We are profoundly grateful for Petco Love’s support, which enables us to enhance our care and extend our services to more animals in need,” stated Kayla Wines, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Warren County. “This funding helps us continue our work and reinforces our initiatives to educate the public on important issues like vaccinations and population control.”
For more information on the Humane Society of Warren County and how to support their cause, visit www.humanesocietywarrencounty.com. To learn more about Petco Love and their lifesaving efforts, visit petcolove.org.
Local News
Shenandoah University Receives Grant for Global Virtual Exchange Program
Shenandoah University has been selected as a grant recipient for the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative, aimed at connecting young people across the United States, the Middle East, and North Africa through innovative virtual exchange programs. The initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Aspen Institute, recognizes and supports efforts to enhance global learning and intercultural collaboration.
Shenandoah University’s “Virtually Going Global” program is designed to integrate global virtual learning into its curriculum, particularly targeting first-year students. This program will pair American students with peers from Yarmouk University in Jordan to work on joint projects that promote intercultural competencies and foster a broader understanding of global perspectives.
Amy Sarch, Shenandoah University’s Associate Provost for Academic Affairs, expressed enthusiasm about the grant: “Incorporating global virtual learning into every First Year Seminar class allows us to expand our educational reach beyond traditional boundaries. This initiative enhances our curriculum and instills essential values of cross-cultural engagement and collaboration among our students.”
Christine Shiau, Executive Director of the Stevens Initiative, emphasized the broader impact of such programs: “We are excited to welcome Shenandoah University among our new grantees. Their commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and global connectivity through virtual exchanges is vital for preparing young people to thrive in an interconnected world.”
The funded projects at Shenandoah University will involve students in activities ranging from shared cultural events to collaborative academic projects, all conducted within a virtual environment that allows for extensive interaction despite geographical distances.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Stevens Initiative to make virtual exchanges a standard part of global education, reaching nearly 10,000 young people across diverse regions this year alone. Other projects funded under this initiative include digital language learning through virtual reality, climate change education projects, and legal exchange programs, reflecting the wide range of applications for virtual exchange technology in modern education.
For more information about Shenandoah University and its programs, visit su.edu. More details on the Stevens Initiative and its programs can be found at stevensinitiative.org.
Local News
Fauquier Health ICU Nurse Honored with Prestigious DAISY Award
Myra Griffin, RN, BSN, CCRN, has been named the DAISY Award Honoree for the fourth quarter of 2023 and the first quarter of 2024 at Fauquier Health. This prestigious recognition is awarded to nurses who provide extraordinary care, as evidenced by nominations from patients, families, and colleagues.
The Fauquier Health Daisy Committee and Toni Maxwell, CNO, Rebecca Segal, CEO, and Myra Griffin are holding the banner signed by DAISY honorees.
Griffin, who joined Fauquier Health in 2021, was recognized for her exceptional dedication and empathy in the intensive care unit. One nominating family member highlighted her impactful presence: “Myra was right there, in her gentle, no-nonsense way, explaining what was happening, the labs and test results, connecting with and caring for all of us. She made a personal connection with each family member…She is patient and kind. She protects, she hopes, and she perseveres…She is love.”
Reflecting on her role, Griffin shared, “What I treasure most about being a nurse is the honor of gaining a complete stranger’s trust and the privilege of them allowing me to care for them and the power to help heal them through God’s grace.”
Another family shared their appreciation for Griffin’s proactive approach, noting her attentiveness to slight changes in a patient’s condition, which she addressed promptly with the medical team, ensuring comprehensive care and support.
Toni Maxwell, CNO, presents Myra Griffin with her DAISY award.
Toni Maxwell, APRN, FNP-BC, Chief Nursing Officer at Fauquier Health, praised Griffin’s compassionate care, stating, “Myra exemplifies the best in nursing: compassion, caring, and connecting with patients and families when they need it most. I am so proud of Myra for her back-to-back DAISY honors!”
The DAISY Award, established by The DAISY Foundation in 1999, recognizes the exceptional clinical skills and compassionate care nurses exhibit. His family created The DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes to honor the nursing care he received during his illness.
Fauquier Health, a community health system accredited by the Joint Commission, continues demonstrating excellence in healthcare through its comprehensive services and commitment to patient-centered care.
Local News
Warren County High School Announces Recipients of the 2024 Dr. Leonard F. Maiden DECA Scholarship
Warren County High School is proud to announce Sofia Kozhenevsky and Sophia Logan as the 2024 Dr. Leonard F. Maiden DECA Scholarship co-recipients. Established in 2021 in memory of Dr. Leonard F. Maiden and funded by his family, this scholarship awards $1000 annually to a deserving DECA senior from Warren County High School.
Dr. Leonard F. Maiden
The scholarship recipients were honored during the WCHS Senior Awards Ceremony on April 29, 2024. Both students have demonstrated exceptional commitment and achievement in DECA, the school’s business and marketing club, throughout their high school careers.
Sofia Kozhenevsky
Sofia Kozhenevsky has been an active member of DECA for three years, competing at the district, state, and national levels, with notable placements including two district awards and a 5th place at the state level for her Sales project team. Sofia has also been vice president of the National Honor Society and a Virginia DECA Honor Society member. “DECA has been instrumental in enhancing my business knowledge and developing essential life skills,” Sofia shared. She plans to attend Virginia Tech, majoring in interior design.
Sophia Logan
Sophia Logan, also a three-year member of DECA, has achieved significant success, including three district wins, state competitions, and two national competitions. Her leadership roles include serving as the President of the WCHS DECA Chapter and previously as the Vice-President of Membership & Recruitment. Sophia’s community involvement and leadership extend to her roles in other school activities and local business engagements. She is set to begin her higher education at LRCC and plans to transfer to James Madison University to pursue a major in digital marketing.
These scholarships recognize not only the academic and leadership qualities of the recipients but also their potential to impact the business world positively. The community looks forward to seeing the future successes of these promising young leaders.
Local News
Warren County High School DECA Team Shines at International Conference
Warren County High School’s DECA team celebrated a significant achievement at the 2024 DECA International Career Development Conference held from April 26-30. Fifteen talented students represented the school across various competitive categories, demonstrating their skills in business and marketing.
The DECA team’s participation included impressive presentations in several competitions: Caden Monroe in Accounting Applications, Aiden Dunnet and Jonathan Panciera in Integrated Marketing Campaign-Product, Ella Martin and Sadie Patterson in School-Based Enterprises-Food Operations, Raymond Dingess and Marshall Barton in School-Based Enterprises-Retail Operations, and Sophia Logan, Breanna Taylor, and Ayaana Vasishta in Project Management-Sales Project.
Breanna Taylor, Sophia Logan, and Ayaana Vasishta,
Sophia Logan, Breanna Taylor, and Ayaana Vasishta distinguished themselves by placing in the Top 20 with their project “DECA Dogs,” presented at the Fall Festival of Leaves in October 2023. Their project showcased exceptional creativity and strategic acumen, securing their spot among the top contenders.
In addition to the competitions, students Nathalie Abrego, April Escobar, Makayla Harper, Erika Navarro, and Kiara Wiles participated in a two-day leadership academy, gaining invaluable skills and insights.
Sophia Logan shared her experience: “This DECA ICDC Conference was a major highlight of my DECA career. It was an opportunity to refine my skills and connect with fellow members, experience new cultures, and enjoy the beauty of California. I am immensely proud of our team’s top 20 placement and thankful for our advisors who supported us throughout this journey.”
Ayaana Vasishta added, “ICDC was an unforgettable experience, and placing in the top 20 nationally was truly exhilarating. Thanks to our community and advisors, we had the chance to showcase our talents on a national stage.”
The success of the WCHS DECA team at the conference is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the robust support from their school and community. Their achievements highlight the quality of the school’s DECA program and its commitment to fostering future business leaders.
Livestream - SMS
Warren County Celebrates High School Graduates with Inspirational Baccalaureate Service
On May 13, 2024, the Front Royal/Warren County Ministerial Association hosted a baccalaureate service for graduating classes for Warren County and Skyline High Schools. The event was held at the Warren County High School auditorium, welcoming families, faculty, and community.
Captain Ann Hawk from the Salvation Army welcomed the attendees warmly. “We are here not only to celebrate your academic achievements but also to honor your journey and the promising paths you are about to take,” Captain Hawk remarked, setting a tone of communal support and encouragement.
Sarah Hardin and Emma Stelzl, representing Warren County High School and Skyline High School, respectively, led the audience in prayers. “We step forward into our futures, but let us also carry forward the spirit of community and the strength we’ve garnered through our years here together,” said Hardin during her invocation.
The ceremony featured a performance by the Skyline Singers, who sang “Hold Fast to Dreams.” The music added an emotional and uplifting element to the evening, echoing the themes of hope and perseverance.
Seniors Molly Sims and Kaitlyn Antonelli shared reflections on their high school experiences. Sims encouraged her classmates to “embrace the unknown with confidence,” while Antonelli emphasized the importance of community and resilience. “Every challenge and every success has prepared us for the next stages of our lives,” Antonelli noted.
Pastor Ingrid Chenoweth of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church delivered the keynote address, urging the graduates to remain curious and open-minded. “As you all venture out into the world, keep your hearts and minds open to the lessons life will offer you,” she advised.
The distribution of cords and a candle-lighting ceremony symbolized the transition of leadership and responsibility to the rising seniors. Pastor Rachel Plemmons commented, “This light represents not just knowledge but the warmth and brightness of the community spirit you embody.”
The service concluded with a prayer from Pastor Christy McMillin-Goodwin, who expressed hope for the graduates’ futures. “Carry forward the love and support you’ve felt here today as you go forth to make your mark on the world,” she said.
This baccalaureate service celebrated the achievements and potential of Warren County’s graduates, providing them with a heartfelt send-off filled with community blessings and high hopes for their future endeavors.
Video by Mark Williams, Royal Examiner/National Media Services, Inc.
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