Local News
Community rallies in Candlelight Vigil for child abuse prevention
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING – That was the theme of a November 17 Candlelight Vigil to raise awareness and prevention of child abuse in Front Royal and Warren County.
On Friday evening citizens gathered at the Town Gazebo at the cross section of Historic Downtown Front Royal to face a dark underbelly of society. That darkness is the physical abuse of our most vulnerable citizens, our children. The November 8th death of a 22-month-old Warren County toddler and injuries that hospitalized his twin brother propelled this community’s focus on that dark specter. see related story
And if we would like to think of the death of one young boy and hospitalization of his brother from beatings believed to have been inflicted by their mother’s boyfriend, as isolated and rare incidents, one speaker at the Candlelight Vigil reminded us that such abuse occurs more frequently than we would care to imagine.
Warren County Department of Social Services Director DeAnne Cheatham cited 91 reports of child abuse in Warren County in October alone. “Ninety-one of your friends, your family members, your students, your church members – these are 91 members of our community,” Cheatham said, noting that the actual number of abused children here last month was higher because many cases, like the November 8th one, involve multiple children being abused.
Statewide Cheatham observed that in Fiscal Year 2017, 33,000 cases of child abuse and neglect were reported to the Virginia Department of Social Services. Cheatham said that translated into about 52,000 children abused or endangered by neglect. Of that number 128 were investigations of fatalities
Cheatham stressed that while some things, like the rising of the sun each day, are not preventable; every case of child abuse IS preventable. Hence the vigil theme: “If you SEE something, SAY something.”
Commenting on the tragic nature of child abuse, Cheatham added, “Nothing hits home harder than the tragic loss of a loved one or a member of our community. It is especially hard when it’s because of a senseless, cowardly act. In the last few weeks a day hasn’t passed without seeing another heart-wrenching article or newscast describing the horror, the HORROR a child has endured at the hands of someone that should have loved, protected, cherished them.”
Pastor Bobby Stepp of New Hope Bible Church observed that it had been a rough couple of weeks for this community in light of the plight of the abused twin toddlers, one dead, one hospitalized with similar injuries to his brother.
“The people have spoken tonight that with this awareness before the community of what’s going on and ways that we can, indeed, help. These are hard times to understand and we ask hard questions that seemingly go unanswered. The question ‘why’ never seems to get a satisfactory response,” Stepp told a somber crowd.
Addressing the contention of some that such questions should not be asked, at least not in the immediate aftermath of such crimes, Pastor Stepp disagreed. “I have one person in history who hung on a cross that asked ‘Why? – Why Father have you forsaken me?’ And I figure if Jesus can ask ‘Why?’ then so can we.”
But noting that pivotal question doesn’t always receive an immediate answer, the pastor suggested another question – “What are we going to do about what has happened in Warren County with children and even spouses, those who are at risk? What are we gonna do as a community? What can we change? What can we as a community, as individuals do to help in this situation?”
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING!
Pastor Stepp pointed to the important place of children in the “heart of God”. He quoted Matthew, Chapter 18: “The disciples are asking Jesus, who is the greatest in the Kingdom of God? And Jesus says, ‘Bring me a child.’ And they bring a child and sit him down in front of Him and He says, ‘Unless your heart is like the heart of this child you cannot enter the kingdom of God.’ That innocence, that preciousness, that desire to be loved and to love is very, very close to the heart of God.”
But if we struggle as adults to be as a child in our innocence and ability to express universal love, we must not, either as individuals or a community, be blind to those damaged souls among us who can only find a sense of strength in the harming of those Jesus told us the Lord holds in most value as the model for us all – our children.
So REMEMBER of the hints of child abuse that are around us every day – IF you SEE something, SAY something!!!
Local News
Police and Youth Engagement: Building Bridges for a Stronger Future
Across America, police departments actively engage with young people through various programs designed to foster mutual respect, understanding, and trust between law enforcement officers and their communities. These initiatives not only aim to educate youth about the roles and responsibilities of police officers but also strive to empower the next generation through mentorship and positive interactions. Here are some notable efforts:
Explorer and Cadet Programs
These programs are pivotal in introducing the youth to the intricacies of law enforcement. Young participants engage in hands-on activities under the guidance of experienced officers, gaining a firsthand look at what the life of a police officer entails. More than just learning about the job, these programs are about cultivating leadership skills and understanding the importance of civic responsibility.
Police Athletic Leagues (PALs)
PALs are crucial in bridging the gap between police officers and young people through sports and educational activities. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment where youth can interact with officers outside the traditional law enforcement setting. Activities range from basketball and soccer to tutoring sessions designed to encourage teamwork and personal development.
Summer Job Programs
With an emphasis on professional growth and skill development, summer job programs sponsored by police departments offer young people a chance to earn while they learn. These opportunities are about making money and understanding the value of hard work, commitment, and community service, with police officers often serving as mentors and role models.
School Resource Officers (SROs)
SROs are more than just security personnel in schools; they are counselors and mentors who significantly shape the educational environment. Their presence in schools ensures safety and fosters a nurturing setting where students can focus on learning and growth. By interacting daily with students, SROs help demystify the role of law enforcement and promote a culture of safety and respect within the school community.
National Police Week
National Police Week, observed from May 12 to 18, is an opportune time to engage with these initiatives. Many police departments host open houses, workshops, and meet-and-greets this week, providing families and youth an insider’s view into the positive impact of these community-oriented programs.
The proactive efforts of law enforcement to connect with youth underscore a commitment to positive community relations and the nurturing of the next generation. Participating in these programs gives young people valuable insights and experiences that can profoundly influence their personal and professional development. As these relationships strengthen, communities grow safer and more cohesive, illustrating the profound impact of collaboration and mutual respect between police officers and the youth they serve.
Chamber News
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Local News
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Local News
Warren County Educational Endowment Seeks Administrative Assistant
Warren County seeks a dedicated Administrative Assistant to join the Warren County Educational Endowment (WCEE). This part-time role is perfect for individuals adept at multitasking and passionate about education and community development. The position boasts flexible hours with a workload that integrates well into a dynamic lifestyle, particularly appealing to those who thrive in managing both clerical and interpersonal tasks.
The Administrative Assistant will support the WCEE by preparing necessary materials for quarterly meetings, including agendas and documents. They will also handle important financial tasks such as check deposits, bank statement reconciliations, and processing annual tax reports. Additionally, the Assistant is tasked with maintaining the donor software program and managing the WCEE’s online presence, which includes updating the organization’s website and social media platforms.
A notable aspect of the role includes active participation in marketing initiatives and direct involvement in fundraising activities, which are vital for the sustainability of the endowment. The Assistant will work closely with the WCEE President and various committee chairpersons to ensure all aspects of the organization’s administration run smoothly.
Job responsibilities include recording minutes at board meetings, handling correspondence with donors—including thank you letters—and supporting the overall grant process in collaboration with the Grant Committee Chairperson. The role demands a proactive approach to office and online management, ensuring that all administrative aspects are current and effective in supporting the WCEE’s objectives.
The position offers a compensation package commensurate with experience, reflecting the significant responsibility and flexibility the role entails. Applicants should be prepared for a workload increase during critical periods such as quarterly meetings, fundraising events, and grant processes.
Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the WCEE website to learn more about the organization’s goals and contributions to educational excellence in Warren County. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2024. This opportunity is ideal for someone looking to significantly impact their community while working in a supportive and enriching environment.
For those ready to step into a role that makes a difference, ensure your application, including a cover letter and resume, is submitted promptly to be considered for this enriching opportunity.
Local News
VDOT: Warren County Traffic Alert for May 13 – 17, 2024
The following is a list of highway work that may affect traffic in Warren County during the coming weeks. Scheduled work is subject to change due to inclement weather and material supplies. Motorists are advised to watch for slow-moving tractors during mowing operations. When traveling through a work zone, be alert to periodic changes in traffic patterns and lane closures.
*NEW* or *UPDATE* indicates a new or revised entry since last week’s report.
INTERSTATE 66
*NEW* Mile marker 0 to 2, eastbound and westbound – Right shoulder closures for litter pickup operations, 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Wednesday.
*UPDATE* Mile marker 0 to 7, eastbound – Right shoulder closures for utility work, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. through May 31.
*NEW* Mile marker 6 to 8, eastbound and westbound – Right shoulder closures for litter pickup operations, 12 noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday.
*NEW* Mile marker 11 to 12, eastbound and westbound – Left lane closures for inspection of bridges over Route 647 (Dismal Hollow Road) and Manassas Run, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
INTERSTATE 81
Mile marker 299 to 300, northbound – Right shoulder closures for utility work, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. through May 31.
Mile marker 299 to 300, northbound and southbound –Overnight lane closures and traffic-lane shifts as needed, 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. through December 2024. Shoulder closures 24/7. Work zone speed limit 55 miles an hour. Work is related to southbound acceleration ramp extension and bridge widening with estimated completion in late 2024.
PRIMARY ROADS
Route 340 (Stonewall Jackson Highway) – Flagger traffic control between Route 674 (Limeton Church Road) and Route 607 (Rocky Lane) for pipe replacement, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Tuesday.
SECONDARY ROADS
Route 658 (Rockland Road) – Closed to through traffic between Route 340/522 (Winchester Road) and Route 705 (Fishnet Boulevard) for construction of bridge over Norfolk Southern Railway. Estimated completion December 2025.
Vegetation management may take place district-wide on various routes. Motorists are reminded to use extreme caution when traveling through work zones.
Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511 or at www.511Virginia.org.
Local News
Valley Chorale’s ‘Wishing on a Song’ Spring Finale in Front Royal Features Emotional Music From Gershwin to McCartney
The “new look” Valley Chorale, founded in 1962, ended its second year under new management and an up-and-coming artistic director, Samantha Isely — she arrived last Sunday afternoon! — with an unexpected toe-tapping post-intermission series of songs, including tunes from Paul McCartney (“Little Willow” written in 1995 as a tribute to Maureen Cox, the first wife of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, who passed away in December 1994), Carly Simons (“Let the River Run”), and that “where we get our kicks” favorite from the good old days, “Route 66”.
More calming, perhaps, to the surroundings – Front Royal’s commodious First Baptist Church – was the first section of the program dedicated to songs featuring the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, George Gershwin, and others, including “O Love” featuring Sophia Alvini-Moore on cello.
The Front Royal appearance of the black-clad, 30-member choir was the third in this year’s Spring series of concerts conducted by Isely, who holds a B.A. in Choral Music Education from Northern Arizona University and later this month will receive her master’s degree in Vocal Pedagogy from Shenandoah University. Among the 30 choristers was David Freese, the current president of the non-profit Valley Chorale, and assistant choir director Kristina Sheppard, choral director at Gainesville High School.
The full house audience gave the choir and its pianist accompanist, Connie Gallond, standing ovations at the conclusion of the 75-minute concert, after which Isely announced a program of rehearsals beginning in August to prepare for a concert series in 2025.
In a statement to donors, Freese remarked: “All of us at The Valley Chorale are deeply grateful … for their generous support of our work. We salute your commitment to championing the choral arts in our communities.” Doctors Frederick and Daisy Broadhead of Front Royal Dental Care sponsored the Front Royal performance.