Starting next week, certain dairy cattle must be tested for avian influenza before they can be transported to a different state, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday.

The requirement is among several that will expand the testing, reporting, and monitoring of the cattle to reduce the spread of bird flu among the animals.

The new rules follow evidence that highly pathogenic avian influenza — which is commonly spread by migrating birds — has transmitted from cow to cow and from cattle to poultry, and that infected cows might not show symptoms of illness, the USDA said. Last week, an analysis of the virus from a Kansas cow showed that it had acquired “an adaptation to mammals.”

USDA will require certain dairy cattle to be tested for avian influenza before they can be transported to a different state. (Photo by Scott Bauer/USDA Agricultural Research Service)

On Tuesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said tests had revealed fragments of the virus in pasteurized milk, but that they don’t pose a risk to public health.

“While we are taking this action today, it is important to remember that thus far, we have not found changes to the virus that would make it more transmissible to humans and between people,” the USDA said Wednesday.

It has been a month since the virus was first confirmed to have infected dairy cattle in Texas. The virus has now been detected in 33 dairy herds in eight states, the USDA said. Part of that spread has been attributed to the transportation of infected cows to new herds.

The cows most often recover from infection after a week or so, but their tainted milk cannot be used for commercial human consumption. The virus is often deadly for poultry and can rapidly infect flocks.

The rules set to take effect on Monday require lactating dairy cattle to test negative for influenza A before they are transported across state lines, and that requirement might be expanded to other types of dairy cattle in the future.

Labs must also report their confirmed infections of livestock to the USDA, and certain herd owners must provide details about where their cattle have been transported.

Further information about the new rules is forthcoming, and state agriculture officials declined for now to say what impact they will have on Iowa dairy farmers.

“We are still awaiting specific guidance from USDA regarding this new interstate movement order,” said Don McDowell, a spokesperson for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

John Maxwell, a dairy farmer near Davenport, Iowa, predicted that the effects for most dairies in Iowa will be inconsequential and that it’s best to be cautious and increase testing until more is known about the disease.

“We have to do tests anyway,” he said, in reference to dairy cattle he sells out-of-state. “So it would be one more test and whatever the cost it might be. One more is not the end of the world.”

The USDA has said it will reimburse farmers for testing of sick and asymptomatic cattle.

States with confirmed bird flu infections of dairy cattle include Kansas, Idaho, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota and Texas.

A virus similar to what has infected cows has been found in poultry flocks in Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico and Texas, the USDA said.

by Jared Strong, Virginia Mercury

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Owning a home is a significant milestone that symbolizes stability and independence. However, the journey to homeownership involves more than just securing a mortgage and making monthly payments. Several other costs are integral to the ownership experience, often surprising new homeowners. Here are five essential costs associated with homeownership that deserve attention and planning:

1. Property Taxes: The Hidden Variable

Property taxes are a critical but often underestimated aspect of homeownership costs. These taxes are determined by your property’s assessed value and your local tax rate, which can vary significantly from one location to another. It’s important to research and factor in these costs, as they can substantially impact your overall budget.

2. HOA Fees: Community Living Comes at a Cost

Living in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA) brings certain perks, such as access to amenities and communal area maintenance. However, these benefits come with a monthly or annual HOA fee price tag. Depending on the services provided, these fees can be hefty and should be considered in your budgeting process.

3. Maintenance and Repairs: The Ongoing Investment

The responsibility for maintenance and repairs falls squarely on homeowners, a shift from the renter’s experience where the landlord typically handles such concerns. Regular maintenance tasks like lawn care, HVAC system servicing, and exterior upkeep are not just time-consuming but can also be expensive. Additionally, unforeseen repairs can arise at any time, necessitating an emergency fund to avoid financial strain.

4. Insurance: Protecting Your Home

Homeowners insurance is non-negotiable for protecting your property against unforeseen events. The cost of insurance varies based on your home’s location, size, and chosen coverage level. Additional policies for flood or earthquake coverage might be necessary in areas prone to natural disasters, adding to the overall cost.

5. Utility Bills: The Cost of Comfort

Utility expenses often increase when moving from renting to owning, as homeowners typically occupy larger spaces than renters. Essential services such as electricity, gas, water, and sewage must be accounted for in the monthly budget. These costs can fluctuate based on usage, seasonal changes, and local rates.

Planning for the Future

Understanding these costs is crucial for prospective homeowners. Budgeting for these expenses ensures that you cannot only buy a home but also afford to live in it comfortably. Consulting with real estate professionals and insurance agents can provide a clearer picture of what to expect, helping you prepare for the full spectrum of homeownership costs.

Homeownership is a rewarding journey but requires thorough preparation and informed decision-making. Acknowledging and planning for these additional costs can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable homeownership experience.

Shore fishing is an accessible and enjoyable way to experience the thrill of angling, perfect for those who might not have the means or desire to fish from a boat. With the right approach, shore anglers can enjoy just as much success as their boating counterparts. Here are five essential tips to enhance your shore fishing experience:

1. Selecting the Ideal Spot

The key to successful shore fishing lies in choosing the right location. Look for areas with access to deeper water, structures like logs or rocks, and signs of fish activity such as birds feeding. Public parks, piers, jetties, and riverbanks can be excellent choices. Spend some time scouting different locations and take note of spots where fish seem to be congregating.

2. Optimal Timing for Fishing

Understanding when fish are most likely to feed can significantly increase your chances of a successful catch. Dawn and dusk are prime times for shore fishing, as fish move closer to the shore to feed. Additionally, consider the lunar cycle; some anglers find that fishing is better during a full or new moon due to the impact on tides and fish feeding patterns.

3. Choosing the Right Bait and Lures

Matching your bait and lures to the local fish diet is crucial. Research the types of fish in your chosen spot and their preferred prey. While live bait is often very effective, artificial lures can also yield excellent results. Experiment with different types, including jigs, spinners, and soft plastics, to see what attracts the local fish.

4. Mobility is Key

One of the advantages of shore fishing is the ability to easily change locations. If you’re not having luck in one spot, don’t hesitate to try another. Pay attention to the water’s edge and look for natural channels, drop-offs, or vegetation where fish might be hiding. Changing tactics and moving around can often lead to better results.

5. Weather and Environmental Factors

Weather conditions can significantly influence fish behavior. Overcast days may encourage fish to roam more freely, while windy conditions can stir up food sources, attracting fish. Fishing before weather fronts can also be productive, as changes in atmospheric pressure seem to stimulate feeding.

Bonus Tip: Windward Advantage

Fishing on the windward side of a lake or coastline can be particularly effective. The wind pushes surface water, food particles, and smaller fish, attracting larger fish to these areas. Positioning yourself strategically can lead to more bites.

Shore fishing is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the sport of fishing. By applying these tips, you’re well on your way to a rewarding shore fishing adventure. Whether you’re casting your line into a calm lake at dawn or battling the waves on a rugged coastline, the potential for a great catch is always within reach.

Following a 4 p.m. tour of the new Senior Center renovations slated to be completed by June (see related story) and a late-added 5:30 p.m. Closed Session (Item A), the Warren County Board of Supervisors convened to yet another Fiscal Year-2024/25 budget work session. This one, convened about five minutes after the scheduled 6 p.m. start due to the length of the closed session, included one outside agency, the Virginia Department Of Transportation (VDOT) on the Six-Year Plan for road improvements in the county, and five county departmental presentations.

Those budget-related reports in the order presented were:

1. Presentation – Virginia Department of Transportation Secondary 6-Year Plan
2. Discussion – Public Work Transfer Station Rates – Mike Berry, Public Works Director
3. Presentation – Old Oak Lane, Phase IV (4) and V (5) Updates – Mike Berry, Public Works Director and Sanitary District Manager Michael Coffelt
4. Discussion – 2024-2025 United Healthcare Insurance Renewal – Jane Meadows, Deputy County Administrator, Kayla Darr, Human Resources Manager
5. Discussion – Orientation for the Department of Social Services – Jon Martz, Director of Social Services
6. Requested Proclamation: April is Child Abuse Prevention Month – Department of Social Services

Since it was a work session, no actions were taken on the presentations or staff recommendations. The board took what they heard under advisement as they move toward a final budget proposal in the months leading to the start of Fiscal Year-2025 on July 1, 2024. Since no action can be taken at a work session, the Social Services Department requested proclamation on recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month would be made at the board’s first meeting of May, Tuesday, the 7th of May.

County Director of Social Services Jon Martz and staffers April White and Christine Lawson outlined their programs and service number increases into the new fiscal year and requested board acknowledgment of ‘April is Child Abuse Prevention Month’.

Among highlights of those presentations and board discussion of them was a staff recommendation from Public Works Director Mike Berry to begin charging the Town of Front Royal for its use of the County’s Solid Waste Transfer Station to dump residential trash. Coupled with a $10 hike in the County’s current tipping fee of $69 to $79 at the Transfer Station, charging the Town “what other commercial users” are charged was projected to increase County revenue by $474,000 to help cover rising costs.

Another highlight came during Deputy County Administrator Jane Meadows update on renewal of the United Health Care Insurance Plan for County employees. In describing the existing situation, employee contributions to their health care coverage balanced against salaries, as well as health and age profiles of county employees, it was observed that may of the County’s employees “feel undervalued” by their employer.

Board Chairman Cheryl Cullers expressed some distress at that description of what is apparently a significant portion of the County’s staff that may be considering a move to a higher-paying or larger employer share of health care costs municipality. And while it may not be a totally new phenomena in the local governmental employer/employee relationship, it is one the board chair believes needs to be dealt with proactively in coming years. How that might be achieved without increasing County revenue through higher service rates, as suggested by the public works director regarding the Town’s use of the County’s Solid Waste Transfer Station, or general tax hikes to provide additional across the board general services revenue will be a dilemma the board must face in coming fiscal years.

County Director of Social Services Jon Martz and staffers April White and Christine Lawson outlined their programs and service number increases into the new fiscal year, as well as requested board acknowledgment of ‘April is Child Abuse Prevention Month’.

Another discussion highlight came in the updates on Old Oak Lane Phases 4 and 5 in the Shenandoah Farms Sanitary District. Staff reported ongoing issues with “production defects” of box culvert sections delivered to the County by the contracted vendor causing ongoing delays as the Phase 4 project creeps toward completion. But that completion of the Old Oak Phase 4 project cited at an approved budget of $1.6 million, with expenditures to date of $796,792, with a remaining budget of $803,208, was recommended for completion. The staff summary also noted that the County “has not paid for the Eastern Vault $249,000 invoice for station 53+00 due to the deficiencies noted.” It was further noted that Public Works has “expended $173,000 in corrective action” with more corrective repairs to come.

As for Old Oak Phase 5 more at a planning stage, due to “Design Constraints” and related costs, staff recommended that the “County Administrator should send a letter to VDOT cancelling the Old Oak Phase V (5).” However, it was added that the County Public Works Department “complete the project internally using current maintenance contracts and approved SFSD (Shenandoah Farms Sanitary District) FY24 road improvement funding.” It was added that: “County General funding no longer necessary for internal SFSD project” which might draw the attention of some Farms Sanitary District residents regarding the use of their Sanitary District tax revenue.

The Closed Session involved legal consultation on wide range of matters involving liabilities, debt, potential bank actions, and recovery of assets related to the Front Royal-Warren County Economic Development Authority (FR-WC EDA or now WC EDA) financial scandal. The motion made into the Closed Meeting read:

“I  move the Board enter into a closed meeting under the provisions of Sections 2.2-3711(A)(7) and (A)(8) for consultation with legal counsel pertaining to actual or probable litigation and the provision of legal advice regarding the Industrial Development Authority of the Town of Front Royal and the County of Warren, Virginia (the “EDA”), the Town of Front Royal, the EDA vs. Jennifer McDonald, et al., the Town of Front Royal vs. the EDA, et al., the EDA vs. the Town of Front Royal, other potential claims and litigation relating to other possible liabilities of the EDA, the recovery of EDA funds and assets, the outstanding indebtedness of the EDA and potential bank actions related to the same.”

The supervisors came out of the closed session at about 6:05 p.m. to find a captive audience of mostly county staff in the rear of the meeting room, along with VDOT reps Ed Carter and Matt Smith, right to left, in the second row of public seating.

And after the above-cited agenda’s completion, the work session adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

Due to what was described as a vendor “glitch” there is some delay on the work session video being posted. County IT staff hopes the video will be posted by the end of the week. When it is available, it will be linked to this story.

At 4 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, the Warren County Board of Supervisors began its three-pronged April 23rd schedule with a tour of the nearly completed two-year Health & Human Services facility renovations that will see the County-overseen Senior Center relocated from its Chimney Field-area site. According to Deputy County Administrator Jane Meadows, relocation will see an approximate doubling of the size of the senior assistance and activities facility. Meadows later elaborated to us that the square footage of the new Senior Center is 5,922 s.f., with shared space with the Parks & Recreation Department adding an additional 2,780 s.f. expanding total usable space to 8,702 s.f. For comparison, the existing Senior Center on Commonwealth Avenue near Chimney Field, the building is 3,964 s.f. The two-year project cost was cited at $867,000.

Deputy County Administrator Jane Meadows, right, gives supervisors and other involved personnel an overview of the status of the almost-ready Senior Center in a renovated portion of the County’s Health & Human Services complex off of 15th Street in Front Royal. Below are two perspectives on what appears to be a main dining area with space for other activities as needed. Royal Examiner Photos Roger Bianchini

Costs and returns on investments are high on the county supervisors’ minds right now as they zero in on a Fiscal year 2024/25 final budget that will see the county’s first tax hike in the past five years to fund crucial departmental and outside agency services. Board members new and old seemed impressed with the amount of renovated space and its condition as presented to them by Meadows, along with Senior Services personnel, a number from Seniors First, including Executive Director Jimmy Roberts, Director of Development Greg Stockton, Director of Senior Center Operations Marsha LeBrecht, and Senior Center staffer Misty Alger. Also joining the tour were County Director of Social Services Jon Martz and Assistant Director Christie Lawson.

The target date for opening the Senior Center at its Health & Human Services complex location at the old middle school site off 15th Street is sometime in June, though involved officials declined to get more specific on a precise date at this point as final renovations continue.

The Senior Center facility tour makes its way through kitchen areas with what appears to be a renovation in progress on the exhaust system hanging from the ceiling. In the third shot below, Warren Senior Center staffer Misty Alger displays a walk-in freezer for food storage in a kitchen area. Cleanliness in food preparation areas was cited and will be encouraged by multiple sink locations.

It was noted that the change of locations would also be beneficial in giving attending seniors nearby access to a number of Health & Human Services in the 15th Street complex in addition to the shared Parks & Recreation space. That access includes the County Health and Social Services Departments for assistance seniors qualify for and utilize in maintaining a more beneficial standard of living.

The group gathers at the exit from the large dining area to an outside patio area.

Meadows shows tour auxiliary rooms with work desks and a bathroom area with a walk-in shower.

On April 28th, 2024, the Bethel Life Church invites community members to a special Seder Meal held at the Bethel Community Center in Front Royal, VA. This event is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. and offers an opportunity for great food and fellowship.

The Seder Meal is a tradition that commemorates the Passover, marking the Israelites’ liberation from Egyptian slavery. It’s a time of reflection and community, filled with symbolic foods and stories that resonate with themes of freedom and renewal. The Bethel Life Church’s event is open to all, aiming to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to share in this meaningful experience.

Located at 49 Kendrick Ford Road, the Bethel Community Center provides the perfect setting for this gathering. The event promises to offer a taste of traditional foods and a chance to connect with others in the community. It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in experiencing a Seder and learning more about this significant historical and religious event.

For more information, visit the church’s website at www.bethellife.org or contact them directly at 540.635.1826. Whether you’re familiar with the Seder tradition or curious to experience it for the first time, Bethel Life Church welcomes you to join them for a day of remembrance, community, and celebration.