Local News
Boy Scout Troop 15 touched the lives of many young men since 1978
Boy Scout Troop 17 was led by Scout Master Pete Scott and an assistant in the 1970s and sponsored by Kernstown Presbyterian Church. Both Scott and his scout assistant were both transferred by their employer out of the area and the troop was left without adult leadership.
Lew Boyer accepted the position of Scout Master and Gene Larrick Assistant Scout Master. The Troop was relocated from Kernstown to Stephens City and became Troop 15 after receiving sponsorship from Stephens City UMC in February, 1978. Boyer would continue his leadership position for 32 years and Larrick would eventually leave because of an employment transfer to Pennsylvania and was replaced by Bob Wells in 1988.
Former Scout Master (1978-2010) and current Committeeman, Lew Boyer presented a forty-five-year historical summary of Troop 15 accomplishments.
Wells wrote an instructional booklet, “Trail to the Eagle,” which is an Eagle Scout candidate’s service workbook instruction. “An Eagle Scout candidate and his advisor needed a detailed document to ensure all Boy Scouts of America (BSA) National, Council, and District rules, regulations, and requirements were followed,” said Wells. Instructions included selecting, planning, documenting, coordinating, and pricing of an Eagle project. The booklet was adopted by the BSA Shenandoah Area Council.
Since Lew Boyer retired, there have been only two other Scout Masters, John Petrie II in 2010 who served for eight years, and Jim Vogt in 2018 who has been serving for five years. There have been an estimated fifty assistant scout masters over the years. Troop sponsorship was recently transferred to the Stephens City Lions Club.
All Scout Masters and Assistant Scout Masters are fully trained including in Youth Protection which helps establish the most secure environment possible for youth members.
Wood Badge training teaches adult leaders about communication skills, team building, unit recruiting techniques, how all the Scouting programs work together to teach character building and leadership skills to youth. This rigorous training was earned by Bob Wells, John Petrie II, Lew Boyer, Bill Joyce, and Jim Vogt.
Boy Scout Troop 15 adult leaders and scouts attended forty fifth anniversary celebration at the Scout Cabin. L to R: back row, Jim Vogt, Scout Master, Zeke Wilfong, Star Scout, Ethan Gordon, Life Scout, Zach Pendzich, Eagle Scout, Ben Vogt, Eagle Scout. Front row, Ezra Wilfong, Tenderfoot Scout, Eli McDonald, 2nd Class, Levi McDonald, Assistant Scout Master, Jason Gordon, Committeeman (and former Asst. Scout Master five years), Adam Wilfong (father and Cub Pack 15 Cub Master).
The Silver Beaver Award is bestowed upon only those adult leaders who have given continuous, unselfish, and effective service to the community. The Silver Beaver Award is the highest recognition a local Council can bestow upon volunteer leaders. This prestigious award was earned by Bob Wells, John Petrie II, Lew Boyer, and Bill Joyce.
Troop 15 celebrated 45-years of continuous activity at the Stephens City Scout Cabin on Thursday, April 6. Present Scout Master Jim Vogt emceed the event and troop members under the leadership of Senior Patrol Leader Zeke Wilfong handled the opening and closing of the meeting and celebration. Three of the past Eagle Scouts (Colby Barham, Luke Barham, and Samuel “Colt” Barham) were among the attendees.
Former Scout Master, Lew Boyer presented 45 years of troop accomplishments and encouraged the current scouts to continue their good efforts and to abide by the Scout Law; to always help other people, to keep physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. The troop credits its longevity to being active with regular weekly meetings and monthly camping or hiking, and participating in various community service projects. Each month’s program is devoted to fundamental skills, merit badge interest, and efforts toward rank advancement. The scouts work as a team in a patrol and have numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills.
Boy Scout Troop 15 logo on scout trailer used for hauling camping and camporee equipment. All photos courtesy Bob Wells.
Thirteen-year-old Senior Patrol Leader and Star Scout, Zeke Wilfong, describes his experience as a scout. “I have been in Boy Scouting almost three years. I have learned that people can surprise me when they are placed in different situations. When camping, some scouts have never cooked over an open fire or ever pitched a tent. I try to step in and help them,” Wilfong said. As a Star Scout and patrol leader, Wilfong believes scouting has taught him good communication skills and made him feel more confident when directing other scouts. “I have learned to have a vision, a goal to what I want to accomplish. I plan to reach Eagle Scout and as an adult, eventually serve on the BSA Shenandoah Area Council,” said Wilfong.
The troop has attended a week-long summer camp annually at Camp Rock Enon (except for the COVID-19 year). Camp Rock Enon Scout Reservation is in the northwestern tip of Virginia and is conveniently located for many outdoor activities such as hiking the Appalachian or Tuscarora trails, canoeing, or rafting on the Potomac River, rock climbing and rappelling, canyoneering, and river tubing.
Boy Scout Troop 15 adult leaders attended the forty fifth anniversary celebration. L to R: Jim Vogt, Scout Master, Levi McDonald, Assistant Scout Master, Jason Gordon, Committeeman, Bill Tucker, Committee Chair, Bob Wells, Committee Treasurer, Lew Boyer, Committeeman, Robert Aylor, former Assistant Scout Master.
Camporee participation has also been a major event for the troop. A camporee (scheduled fall, winter, spring) is a fun filled weekend with skill competitions and meeting Scouts from around the district. The camporee skill competitions take place by patrols within the troop. These competitions usually cover fundamental outdoor skills like fire building, knot tying, or cooking. Troop 15 has been very successful in winning its share of camporee competitions.
Since its inception, the average troop size has been ten to fourteen boys. The highest enrollment period was 2010-2018 with an average of fifteen boys to twenty-two. Throughout its many years of existence, long serving leaders believe that approximately 400 youth had been served with 53 attaining the highest rank of Eagle Scout. Troop 15’s advancement record is notable as approximately 13% of all boys have achieved the Eagle rank. Nationally, only 4 percent of all Boy Scouts reach Eagle Scout.
To make Eagle rank, a scout works through the ranks as follows: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and then Eagle. To be eligible for the Eagle rank, a scout must earn fourteen required merit badges, seven optional badges, and complete a scout generated and directed leadership project of significant value to the local community.
Troop 15 is very proud of the service they provide annually to the community. The entire troop has averaged around 300 hours of community service each year. “The calculation is based on ten scouts and two adults each performing twenty-five hours of service annually,” said Scout Master Vogt.
Recent Eagle Scouts returned to attend forty fifth anniversary celebration at the Scout Cabin on Locust Street in Stephens City. L to R: Colby Barham, Luke Barham, Samuel “Colt” Barham.
The types of Scout service projects are varied and include work with the US Forest Service, state parks, local churches, and towns. Troop 15 has previously participated in Scouting for Food at the Stephens City UMC Food Pantry during two Saturdays in November as well as numerous property clean ups for senior citizen centers, churches, The Town of Stephens City, and summer camp set ups and break downs at Camp Rock Enon in Gore VA in addition to forest clearings at the same camp.
The troop marches in the annual Newtown Heritage Festival parade and supports color guards for both Veterans Day and Memorial Day celebrations as well as partaking in dozens of flag retirement ceremonies for Stephens City, the AMVETS Club, and the Scout Council. The next community project is scheduled April 29, 2023. The scouts plan a collection sweep of trash and debris in the forest around the Autumn Glen Homeowners Association at Tasker Road and Warrior Drive in Stephens City. The Scouts will bring trash bags, a wheelbarrow, and a pickup truck to haul away collected debris.
According to Lew Boyer, a Boy Scout Troop’s value to the community should never be undervalued. A scout needs family support to achieve success. Parents are required to transport the scout to scheduled meetings and events, provide uniforms and applicable equipment, and assist with their scout’s advancement in the troop. The scout will learn teamwork and be provided leadership opportunities. The Scout will partake in various physical and interpersonal skill development and most importantly make long lasting friendships.
About the Future
Troop 15 has been in Stephens City for 45 years which is a little less than half the time Scouting in the United States has existed (founded in 1910). In another five years, the troop will celebrate their fiftieth anniversary. At that time a time capsule (wooden box) will be opened. The box was sealed in 2008 when celebrating the Troop’s thirtieth anniversary. It contains scout artifacts that were relevant at the time and letters from departing senior scouts. It should be something special for the troop to experience when the contents of the capsule are revealed. Everyone is invited to view the contents and celebrate the anniversary.
Scout time capsule (wooden box) to be opened at the troop fiftieth anniversary in February, 2028.
According to Scout Master Vogt, scouting continually needs parents to step forward and serve as scout leaders or to serve in a more minor role. The parent who is great with hands on tools can share his talents with young men, whereas the parent who is naturally organized may coordinate the camping trips, and the self-proclaimed chef might help design the camping menu or the year end banquet. Regardless of your skill – there is a place for you in Scouting and in the Scouting community.
Note: Scout Master Edward Ambrose first established Stephens City Troop 6 in 1951. He was a carpenter by trade however, Ambrose became well known for his wood carvings after he became a Scout Leader. Ambrose held the position for twenty years, teaching the boys to carve and make wooden neckerchief slides. He carved a twenty-four-foot-high totem pole which stood in front of the Scout Cabin before it was stolen. The Scout Cabin was built in 1956 by the Town of Stephens City. The building received additions and upgrades in the 1970s and 80s. Troop 6 was disbanded in the 1980s and afterward Troop 15 was invited to relocate to the Scout Cabin. The building, located on Locust Street, contains scouting memorabilia from the past and continues to display the rich history of the scouting movement in Stephens City.
Local News
Illuminating Futures: Celebrating Achievements and Exploring Quantum Computing at ‘This is IT!’ Event
The “This Is IT!” club of Warren County, Virginia, marked another milestone as a hub for budding IT enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. The club, which started in 2023, has quickly become a cornerstone for students interested in the ever-evolving world of information technology.
At the ‘This is IT!’ club gathering at the Samuels Public Library on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, students and community members came together to celebrate and learn. The club includes 9th to 12th-grade students from public, private, and homeschool backgrounds and is aimed to ignite curiosity and reward academic excellence in information technology and quantum computing.
The ceremony kicked off with an introduction by Melissa Chapman, an instructor involved with the club. She set the stage for a night that was not only about recognition but also about expanding young minds. “Understanding the vocabulary of quantum computing is the first step towards mastery,” Chapman remarked, highlighting the importance of foundational knowledge in this cutting-edge field.
The focal point of the evening was the guest lecture by Dr. Bruce Chesley, an aerospace engineer who adeptly connected the seemingly distant realms of space exploration and quantum computing. With palpable enthusiasm, Dr. Chesley described how quantum technologies could revolutionize our approach to exploring the cosmos. His talk made the complex topics accessible and entertaining, captivating the aspiring scientists in attendance.
Amidst the talks, the club took a moment to honor its bright young members through a scholarship awards ceremony. Scholarships were awarded to students who have shown exceptional prowess in STEM fields. These awards are a testament to the community’s support for its young learners and a major encouragement for them to pursue further education in technology. The winners were Jude O’Neal, Elijah Hambric, Jack Gillespie, Benedict Keough, Matthias Biedler, and Uli Duke.
From left to right: Jude O’Neal, Elijah Hambric, Jack Gillespie, Benedict Keough, Matthias Biedler, Uli Duke
The “This Is IT!” club continues to grow, driven by passion and enthusiasm for technology and innovation. Each meeting and event cements its role as a vital resource for Warren County’s youth, inspiring them to explore and excel in the field of information technology. As the club prepares for another exciting year, it remains a shining example of how community and education can come together to build a brighter future.
Local News
The Apple Blossom Coronation Legacy Continues for the Historical Event
For the first time in the history of the Shenandoah Apple Bossom Festival® three consecutive generations in a family will have served as Queen Shenandoah. Susan Ford Bales, Queen in 1975, and Tyne Vance Berlanga, Queen in 2001, will be accompanying Joy Elizabeth Berlanga as she assumes her role as Queen Shenandoah XCVII.
The Crowning Ceremony entertains from regal pomp and circumstance to joyful enthusiasm of Little Maids and Pages who are ever present to serve their Queen. The youthful court interchange historical and educational facts from the British Crown to learning about a United States President – to asking, “Who has the Crown?,” and with dancing. The Queen will be crowned at the memorable Coronation celebration under the direction of Elaine B. Aikens. The Ceremony to install the new sovereign is sponsored by Morgan Orthodontics, on Friday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m.at Handley High School. President Gerald Ford crowned Susan. Susan crowned Tyne, and Joy will be crowned by her mother and escorted by her grandmother.
Susan, Joy’s grandmother, is a Virginia native and now resides in Texas. She is the daughter of President Gerald R. Ford and Betty Ford. Susan is the mother of two daughters, Tyne Berlanga and Heather Deavers, five grandchildren, Joy Elizabeth Berlanga, Cruz Vance Berlanga, Elizabeth Blanch Deavers, Jude Deavers, and Sullivan Bales, and three stepsons, Kevin, Matthew, and Andrew Bales.
Susan was raised in Alexandria, Virginia and attended Holton Arms School and the University of Kansas, where she studied photojournalism. She is the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service degree, an Honorary Doctorate of Letters degree, and an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree. She is the author of two novels set in the Whie House, “Double Exposure: A First Daughter Mystery”, and its sequel, “Sharp Focus.”
Susan is the Ship’s Sponsor for the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), which she officially christened on November 9, 2013. On April 8, 2016, in recognition of her service as the Ship’s Sponsor, she was named an Honorary Naval Aviator by the United States Navy, becoming only the 31st American to receive this distinction. And history was made with her selection – Susan is the first woman to be chosen as an Honorary Naval Aviator.
During her high school years, Susan lived in the White House and served as official White House hostess following her mother’s surgery for breast cancer in 1974. In 1984, she and her mother helped launch National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Susan subsequently served as national spokesperson for breast cancer awareness. Since the founding of the Betty Ford Center in 1982, Susan worked side by side with her mother on projects at the Center and was elected to the Center’s Board of Directors in 1992. She succeeded her mother as Chairman of the Board 2005-2010, and currently serves on the board of directors of Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.
In addition to her many charitable public service activities, Susan serves as Co-Trustee of the President Gerald R. Ford Historical Legacy, Trustee, Trustee of the Elizabeth B. Ford Charitable Trust, and the Honorary Advisory Committee of the Children’s National Medical Center.
Tyne, mother of Joy, Queen-designate, resides in Frisco, TX with her husband Hector and two children, Joy and Cruz. She serves as a marketing manager for Western Son. With a passion for community involvement, Tyne sits on multiple school booster club boards for all her children’s activities.
On Tyne’s departure as Queen she reflected, “It was easy to be kind, gracious and humble Queen when surrounded by the people of Winchester. My five-day reign as Queen Shenandoah was an occasion that will have a special place in my heart. I have formed friendships and made memories that will hopefully stay with me for a long time to come. On Sunday morning I was doing an exit interview with one of the reporters and he asked me, “If l had a daughter would I let her be Queen?” My answer was immediately “Yes, if she’s lucky enough to be given this opportunity.” Now, Tyne eagerly anticipates returning to Winchester where Joy is set to embark on a remarkable journey, echoing Tyne’s own experiences from 23 years prior. It’s truly heartwarming to be able to share this moment with both her mother and daughter.
The Queen and her family will ride in the Hang 10 Firefighters’ Parade Friday evening at 5:30 and the glo fiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 4 at 1:30 p.m. Queen-designate Joy and her family will be making appearances at Festival events during the weekend.
Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events.
Community Events
Valley Chorale Announces Upcoming Spring Concerts in Middletown and Front Royal
The Valley Chorale presents “Wishing On a Song – Music in the Key of Hope”, a spring concert exploring aspirations of love, home, spirituality and compassion that unite and uplift us all. With styles ranging from light classical and sacred to vocal jazz, spirituals and pop, The Valley Chorale strives to capture the hopes that unite us.
The Valley Chorale is known throughout the Shenandoah Valley for innovation and excellence, with piano, cello and percussion accompaniment, and their concerts are often a heart-warming experience for all. They welcome babies and tots, so no need to hire a babysitter.
Tickets can be purchased on their website TheValleyChorale.org — $15 for age 21+ (free under age 21) or at the door for $17.
SATURDAY, MAY 4, 3:00 – 4:15 PM
Belle Grove Plantation (Bank Barn), 336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown, VA
SUNDAY, MAY 5, 3:00 – 4:15 PM
First Baptist Church, 14 W. 1st Street, Front Royal, VA (Community Reception to follow)
For further information, visit the website: TheValleyChorale.org: follow them on Facebook; email them at TheValleyChorale@gmail.com or call at 540-635-4842.
Courtesy Royal Examiner File Photo of The Valley Chorale during the Christmas season. Get ready for their spring concerts ‘Wishing On a Song – Music in the Key of Hope’ the first week of May.
(From a Release by The Valley Chorale)
Local News
Warren Coalition Announces 2024 Video Contest Winners
Just before spring break, the Warren Coalition presented first-place prizes to four students for their submissions in the annual Health Video Contest. Jerry Buhl and Kenny Buhl, brothers who are both students at Warren County Middle School, won in the categories of Eating Healthy and Getting Enough Sleep, respectively. Caleb Rodman, a local homeschool student, was honored for his submission about Drinking Enough Water. Landon Marut of Front Royal Christian Academy took the top prize in the Exercise category. Each of the students received $125 in Amazon gift cards.
Warren County Middle School principal Chris Johnson (left) and Warren Coalition Community Liaison Gabriel Lee (right) present the proud and exuberant Jerry (center left) and Kenny Buhl (center right) with their prizes. The brothers won for their videos about eating healthy and getting enough sleep, respectively.
The contest was open to all middle school students, ages 11-14, in Warren County. Students could elect to submit a video about getting regular exercise, getting enough sleep, drinking water, or maintaining healthy eating habits. The contest was held as part of the Warren Coalition’s WAHOO (Working to Achieve Healthy Outcomes and Opportunities) program, which is funded by the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth. Their videos will be used as healthy living ads throughout Warren County in the late spring/early summer.
Warren Coalition Community Outreach Coordinator Celeste Brooks (on left) presents Caleb Rodman with a $125 Amazon gift card award for his video about drinking enough water.
Warren Coalition is a nonprofit agency established in 1994 to help fill the gaps in health care and substance abuse awareness to the community. The Coalition began under the guidance of Warren Memorial Hospital as an outreach project, but it has since grown and was incorporated in 2001. The office is currently located in the Warren County Community Center. Their mission is to make Warren County a safe, healthy, and drug free community through many programs and in collaboration with 15+ member agencies.
Warren Coalition Community Liaison Gabriel Lee (left) and Executive Director Christa Shifflett (right) present the “Exercise” category prize of $125 to Landon Marut.
Local News
Warren County Habitat for Humanity Receives Major Grant to Support Housing and Community Revitalization
Warren County Habitat for Humanity has been awarded a substantial $235,466 grant from the Susan Dewey Virginia Housing Grant. This funding will enhance their ongoing efforts to revitalize neighborhoods and provide affordable housing, with a focus on the Osage Street project.
The grant, named in honor of Susan Dewey’s 25 years of dedication at Virginia Housing, underscores a commitment to eliminating substandard housing and promoting vibrant, healthy communities. It is part of a larger $1 million initiative aimed at supporting the construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of single-family homes across the state.
Warren County Habitat for Humanity is among five affiliates chosen for this generous grant. The funds are expected to aid in covering construction costs and reducing loan expenses, making homeownership more accessible to families striving for better living conditions.
Debra Siksay, President of the local Habitat chapter, expressed her gratitude, stating, “This grant from Virginia Housing is a monumental support for our Osage Street project and other endeavors. It allows us to push forward with our neighborhood improvement plans and make a lasting impact in the community.”
The organization’s mission, deeply rooted in the values of community and hope, is to ensure that every family in Warren County has a decent, safe place to call home. The Susan Dewey Virginia Housing Grant will play a crucial role in bringing that vision to life by empowering families and fostering community development.
Residents interested in learning more about the Habitat for Humanity projects or wishing to contribute can visit the Warren County Habitat website at www.warrencountyhabitat.org or contact their office at 540-551-3232.
Warren County Habitat for Humanity continues to work tirelessly towards a world where everyone has a decent place to live, supported by community efforts and generous funding such as the Susan Dewey Virginia Housing Grant.
Local News
Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Red Fox
A quick turnaround for this lucky fox!
Patient 24-426 recovering in a BRWC pre-release shelter. @BRWC 2024
As the only wildlife-dedicated hospital in the Northern Virginia area, we rely on a variety of other organizations to get orphaned, injured, and ill wildlife to us for treatment from various locations.
Big thank you to the Animal Welfare League of Arlington and their skilled officers for responding to a call about a fox in distress with a trap on his neck. Their quick thinking got this fox contained, the trap removed, and the fox transported to us for further evaluation and treatment.
Patient 24-426 at intake. @BRWC 2024
On intake, this fox was relatively quiet but required sedation to be fully examined. While there was initially blood seen on the fox’s paw, the only major injuries found were wounds on the neck caused by the trap. The blood was likely from the fox using his paw to scratch at the trap in an attempt to remove it.
Conibear trap removed from patient 24-426. @BRWC 2024
With a long-lasting antibiotic on board as well as pain medications, this fox bounced back quickly and was moved outside to a pre-release shelter for continued healing. He quickly began digging, eating, and acting appropriately towards staff.
A few good days of food and rest, this adult fox was cleared for release by our veterinary team! We are overjoyed we were able to get this beautiful guy back to the wild:
Thank you to ALL involved in this animal’s rescue, care, rehabilitation, and release. It truly takes a village and we’re so thankful to have an amazing community dedicated to the well-being of wildlife.
It’s important to note that trapping within Arlington is illegal – if you have any information on anyone setting illegal traps in Arlington, please contact the AWLA to report information!
Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.
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