The citizenry will be holding us accountable, Mayor Lori Cockrell told business owner Sam Sharma, and they will be holding you accountable.

Having delivered his intent to convert the current Baymont Inn motel at 10 Commerce Avenue into a three-story apartment building with thirty-nine dwelling units, aimed at accommodating young professionals who work locally, Sam Sharma of CCC Enterprises, LLC, received those words from the mayor. His application for a special use permit to serve this residential purpose in the business district was before the town council for a vote on Monday, June 24, at a town council regular meeting, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Warren County Government Center at 220 North Commerce Avenue.

Kyle Hopkins of Four Square Architects addresses the council on the proposed conversion of the Baymont Inn from a motel to an apartment building. Sam Sharma, who operates the Baymont in partnership with Sunny Mehta, stands behind Hopkins on Monday evening.

When the vote finally transpired, after thorough discussion, it was unanimously in favor of the special use permit. That consensus results from multiple work sessions in which the council explored the merits and demerits of what all the members consider a critical project. Councilwoman Amber Morris was especially vocal at Monday’s meeting, leading up to the vote, explaining that it is her job to ask questions and that while she was never against the concept and it was never her intent to give offense, it is her obligation to explore with her fellow council members all the possible ramifications of such a weighty concern.

It is a weighty concern precisely because the prospect of accommodating young professionals and giving them a place to live that is close to their work site is central to the goals of the Town of Front Royal. Indeed, the comprehensive plan calls for converting motels into apartment buildings. The problem that workers currently face is the cost of living, which often forces them to go elsewhere to find housing that they can afford. Thus, they are faced with a commute to reach the community they serve. This could potentially impact the attractiveness of working in Front Royal.

Among many concerns raised at the meeting, which echoed prior work sessions, was the displacement of a demographic that can only afford to live in a motel room. In Morris’s words, these families often have children who “deserve to have a roof over their heads.” As Victor Hugo writes in his preface to Les Miserables, as long as a category exists of people who are disadvantaged by no fault of their own and are aggressively kept by society in that category, “books like this cannot be useless.” The concern raised by Morris underlines the fact that the category Hugo wished to address does indeed exist in Front Royal. But perhaps she ultimately voted in favor of the SUP because establishing an affordable place where workers can live in the community they serve is the first step out of that deplorable category.

Deputy Zoning Administrator John Ware presents to the council two applications for a special use permit and a special exception from parking requirements related to one of the SUP applications.

Another concern was raised by Councilwoman Melissa DeDomenico-Payne that over time and with management changes, the converted apartment building could stray from its intent to serve young professionals. The concern is addressed by an ongoing renewal of the SUP, which gives the Town a chance to periodically examine what is happening at that site and whether it still meets their criteria for that use. The final form of the vote on this item made the permit effective at the date of occupancy; in other words, after construction is completed and the building is operational, the countdown begins for a three-year period, at the end of which the owner must reapply for the permit. At one point in the discussion, Councilman Glenn Wood pointed to an example of such a conversion being done in another municipality and how successful it has been, especially in bringing the citizenry up to a higher standard of living. Councilman Bruce Rappaport underlined how much the Baymont Inn is struggling to survive financially as a motel and how this conversion is vital to its preservation as a community treasure and the place where, once upon a time, Rappaport himself worked as a bellhop.

After adjusting the motion with conditions that everyone concerned felt were suitable, the motion to grant the applicant an SUP to convert the Baymont Inn into an apartment building passed unanimously, followed by a vote unanimously in favor of granting the owner a special exception from parking requirements. After quickly handling a few more business items, the council went into closed session.

After leading the gathering in the pledge of allegiance, Aaliyah Koryn Porter receives a certificate to C&C Frozen Treats from Mayor Lori Cockrell. Royal Examiner Photo Credits: Brenden McHugh.

Marlow Motors Front Royal is recognized by the council in celebration of seventy-seven years in business.

Fire Chief James Bonzano kicked off the unveiling of the new medic unit before turning it over to Captain Austin Cucciardo. “This is our new medic unit. It’s a significant investment, and we want to thank the board of supervisors and administration for their support. Special thanks to Alyssa and her crew for their hard work. We know it was tough, but we’re really happy,” said Bonzano.

Fire Chief James Bonzano starts unveiling the new medic unit, expressing gratitude to the Board of Supervisors and administration for their support.

He emphasized the need for the new unit due to the old, sometimes unsafe equipment the team had been using. “This was really needed, and we’re very appreciative,” he added before handing over to Captain Cucciardo, who oversaw much of the work on the new units.

Cucciardo detailed the features of the new 2023 Ford F-450 chassis. “It’s the first of five new units. We chose a gas engine for significant cost savings upfront and reduced maintenance costs,” he explained. The gas engine saved around $15,000 initially and is cheaper to maintain in the long run.

Captain Austin Cucciardo shows the new medic unit to the Board of Supervisors, highlighting its advanced features and the significant improvements over older equipment.

Highlighting the advancements, Cucciardo pointed out the cooling bar that provides 50% more airflow and 30% better temperature regulation, essential for comfort in the back of the ambulance. “Anyone who has been in the back knows how important temperature regulation is,” he said.

One major update is the electronic control screen, both in the front and rear, allowing better operation management. “Teams can control lights and other functions from both ends of the unit, enhancing safety and efficiency,” noted Cucciardo.

The new power load system for stretchers, capable of handling up to 870 pounds, was another significant upgrade. “This system removes the physical strain of lifting stretchers, reducing the risk of injury for our personnel,” Cucciardo said.

The units now feature a four-point harness for improved safety and a liquid spring suspension system for a smoother ride, which is crucial for patient comfort, especially on rough roads. “It significantly improves riding conditions and reduces maintenance costs compared to traditional air ride systems,” Cucciardo explained.

The new medic units will be distributed across various stations, starting with Linden, then Front Royal and North Warren. This rotation system ensures that each station receives the new units efficiently and maintains a reserve fleet for backup.

The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. The investment in new equipment reflects a commitment to safety and efficiency, benefiting the emergency responders and residents.

Special Thanks to Mark Williams, Royal Examiner, for this exclusive video.

Front Royal’s Julia Wagner Animal Shelter on Progress Drive closes for three weeks starting July 1 while interior construction projects, including new floor tiling throughout, are completed. The work is expected to take until July 22.

Shelter Executive Director Kayla Wines said dog adoptions will continue by appointment at the shelter while adoption events for cats and kittens will be hosted at the Front Royal Petco store and at the Humane Society of Warren County’s “Pick of the Litter” thrift store.

Wines said adoption fees are waived through the end of June “in an effort to clear some space.”

“We are asking the public for their patience as we navigate the next few weeks. We’ve got a lot of heavy lifting to do to prepare for the work being done and will appreciate any volunteer help offered,” she continued.

If you are able to lend a hand the first week of July, reach out to Wines at director@humanesocietywarrencounty.org

Meanwhile, through the HSWC’s most recent newsletter, Wines announced a successful updating of its contract with the County of Warren and the Warren County Sheriff’s Office to continue providing locating, intervention, and pick-up response-centered services to the shelter’s housing service for the community’s stray, abandoned, abused and homeless animals. The agreement will be in place from July 1, 2024, until June 30, 2027, with the County initially providing $412,000 for the first year with a 2% annual increase over the three-year period. Wines paid tribute to this year’s new sheriff, Crystal Cline, whose predecessor had folded the Animal Control Program, assigning general duty deputies to the task.

Wines paid tribute to the members of the new Warren County Sheriffs Animal Control team, describing them as “compassionate, dedicated, animal loving, hard-working officers … We are very proud to have such a wonderful relationship with our local law enforcement and first responders again.”

Sheriff Crystal Cline plays with one of the shelter dogs. Courtesy Photo-Graphics HSWC

The deputies now participate in a new “First Responder Wednesday” program where a deputy comes to the shelter and poses with an adoptable animal. “Not only does this help the pets in our care with socialization,” Wines said, adding that sharing posts with animal control helps reach a wider audience and assists with creating “happily ever afters for our adoptable pets.”

Wines also reported on the shelter’s latest rabies and microchip clinic (840-B John Marshall Highway) at which Landry Renovations & Repair on June 15 provided 85 free rabies vaccines and 20 microchips for needy pet owners. Throughout last year, the shelter provided trap, neuter and release (TNR) services for 368 feral cats. The treatments are aimed at keeping the feral cat populations down.

“Did you know,” Wines teased, “that two feral cats and their offspring can turn into 400,000 cats in just seven years!” she said, adding that “all the TNR surgeries were done at our very own HSWC spay-neuter clinic.” Since each surgery conducted by the two veterinarians at the clinic cost about $75 each, Wines is asking shelter members and others to consider making donations to the two-year-old clinic by calling 540-635-4734 or by mailing a check to HSWC, 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal, 22630.

Clarence “Bootise” Floyd Cook, Jr. peacefully died on February 24, 2024 at 86. He was in his family’s warm and loving embrace at his residence in Avon Park, Florida. Born on September 6, 1937, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Bootsie was a devoted son to the late Clarence Floyd Cook, Sr. and Athali Crawford Cook.  He was also preceded in death by his sister, Virginia Cook.

Clarence “Bootise” Floyd Cook, Jr.

Bootsie was a long-time Warren County, Virginia resident and a graduate of Warren County High School, class of 1958. He served honorably in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963, dedicating himself to his country with the same commitment he applied to every aspect of his life.  He later attended Shenandoah College and Conservatory of Music, cultivating his talent and intellect.  Following graduation, he embarked on a long and fulfilling career as a Respiratory Therapist, a role in which he provided care and comfort to countless individuals. He worked at Warren Memorial Hospital in Front Royal, Virginia, from 1973 – 1978.  He then worked at Walker Memorial Hospital and Florida Hospital Heartland Division in Highlands County, Florida, from 1978 until his retirement in 2016.

A devout member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, he worshipped faithfully at the Front Royal Seventh-Day Adventist Church and, upon relocating, the Avon Park Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

Bootsie was a man whose hobbies were as rich and varied as his character. He was a fervent collector, his interests encompassing coins, stamps, gems, and fossils. His talents extended to the arts of woodworking and photography, through which he expressed his creativity and love for beauty.  He spent many years building his skills in repelling and scuba diving which was beneficial when he joined the Front Royal Search and Rescue.  Active in the speleological community, he was a member of the National Speleological Society and the Underground Explorers Club alongside his friends Tony Marchi and Sam Dunaway.

He leaves behind his cherished wife, Sandra Ross Garbers Cook; his children, Cassandra Cook, Robin Cook, Kimberly Hirsch (Michael), and Michael Cook; his dear grandchildren, Alexandra Evans, Jordan Wilson (Lane), Michaeli Hirsch, Dakota Hirsch,  Corey McHargue, and Kevin McHargue; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Carson Evans, Gibson Evans, Zayne McHargue, and Luella Wilson. He will also be fondly remembered by his brother, Robert Cook; his sister, Anna Sue Cooper; and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 am at Maddox Funeral Home in Front Royal, Virginia. Interment will follow at Panorama Memorial Gardens, where Bootsie will be laid to rest. Maddox Funeral Home is overseeing the arrangements.

Thomas Charles Clark, Sr., 88, of Front Royal, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the Blue Ridge Hospice Inpatient Care Center in Winchester, Virginia.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 29, at 1:00 p.m. in Prospect Hill Cemetery, with Sammy Campbell officiating.

Mr. Clark was born July 15, 1935, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, the son of the late Oscar H. Clark, Sr. and Hazel Clark.

He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1954-1957, gaining the rank of Corporal. He was very proud of his service to our country. Mr. Clark played football for Warren County High School and, in 1953, went to the state championship game.

He retired as an aircraft fueler after 40 years from Allied Aviation at Reagan National and Dulles Airports. In his retirement, he enjoyed selling refurbished fishing rods, military items, and other collectibles at the Front Royal Flea Market.

Survivors include his children, Thomas Clark, Jr. (Donna) of Front Royal, Kathy Farrior of Stephens City, Elaine Collins of Asheboro, North Carolina, and Kent Garner (Pat) of Burlington, North Carolina; sister, Joyce Davis of Front Royal; grandchildren, Kyle Farrior, Holly Kennedy, Bryan and Jonathon Garner, Melodi Miller and Bradley Collins; and great-grandchildren, Jordan and Sarah Farrior, Isaiah, Faith, Jacey, Ava and Quest Garner, Clark, Canaan and Abigail Miller, and soon to arrive, Tucker Kennedy.

On September 18, 1959, he married “Bert” Clark, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Oscar H. Clark, Jr.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 29, from 12-1 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 West Cork Street, Winchester, Virginia 22601.

Tazuye “Clara” Bishop entered eternal life on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 97. Her memory is carried on by her loving family and many friends.

Mrs. Bishop, also known as Granny, Clara, Clare, Mom, and Great-Granny, led a big life. She was born in 1926 in Elk Grove, CA. After WWII, she moved to Japan and met her husband of over 65 years, Willard Bishop. They traveled the world together, raised a family, and met many friends. Clara was a resolute and proud military wife who moved her family and managed a household while stationed in Austria, France, Alaska, and Virginia.

Clara had many interests. She was an amazing and talented seamstress, card player, and gardener. She was a huge sports enthusiast and, in her day, quite the basketball player. She loved her Church and Church Family from Front Royal United Methodist Church.  She had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed her friends immensely, and loved her family unconditionally.

She is survived by her children, Linda Leady (Steve), JoAnne Taylor, and James Bishop; her grandchildren, Patrick Leady (Jen), Laura Ferst (Anthony), and Jesse Bishop; and her great-grandchildren, Julia Leady, Stellarose Ferst, and Blake Ferst.

Clara is reunited with her husband, Willard Bishop, his brothers, her six siblings, and many other family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Front Royal United Methodist Church, 1 W. Main St., Front Royal, with The Rev. Rachel Plemmons officiating. The family invites guests to visit one hour before the service. Following the service, a burial will occur in Culpeper National Cemetery, 305 U.S. Avenue, Culpeper, Virginia.

In place of flowers, please make donations to Blue Ridge Hospice or Front Royal United Methodist Church.