Local News
Governor Northam signs landmark legislation on historic justice, equity
~ New laws repeal racially discriminatory language, give localities control over in their communities ~
RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today (April 11, 2020) signed new laws that repeal racist and discriminatory language from Virginia’s Acts of Assembly, give localities the ability to remove or alter Confederate monuments in their communities, and begin the process of replacing Virginia’s statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee in the United States Capitol.
“Racial discrimination is rooted in many of the choices we have made about who and what to honor, and in many of the laws that have historically governed this Commonwealth,” said Governor Northam. These new laws make Virginia more equitable, just, and inclusive, and I am proud to sign them.”
Senate Bill 183 and House Bill 1537, sponsored by Senator Mamie Locke and Delegate Delores McQuinn, respectively, overturn the Commonwealth’s prohibition on the removal of Confederate war memorials. Starting July 1, localities will have the ability to remove, relocate, or contextualize the monuments in their communities. Virginia is home to more than 220 public memorials to the Confederacy.
Senate Bill 612 and House Bill 1406, sponsored by Senator Louise Lucas and Delegate Jeion Ward, respectively, create a commission to recommend a replacement for the Robert E. Lee statue in the United States Capitol. To date, eight statues in the National Statuary Hall have been replaced, and seven additional states are working through a similar process to replace statues.
“These monuments tell a particular version of history that doesn’t include everyone,” Governor Northam said. “In Virginia, that version of history has been given prominence and authority for far too long.”
Governor Northam also signed new laws to strike discriminatory language from Virginia’s Acts of Assembly. In June 2019, Governor Northam established the Commission to Examine Racial Inequity in Virginia Law, which subsequently identified 98 instances of overtly discriminatory language still on the Commonwealth’s books. This includes laws that banned interracial marriage, blocked school integration and prohibited black and white Virginians from living in the same neighborhoods. While many of these Acts of Assembly have been overturned by court decisions or subsequent legislation, they had remained enshrined in law.
Senate Bill 600 and House Bill 973 repeal discriminatory language related to education; Senate Bill 636 and House Bill 1325 repeal language related to criminal law; Senate Bill 850 and House Bill 1521 relate to health laws; Senate Bill 874 and House Bill 857 relate to housing laws; Senate Bill 722 and House Bill 1638 relate to matters of General Application; Senate Bill 896 and House Bill 914 relate to transportation laws; and Senate Bill 555 and House Bill 1086 repeal discriminatory language related to voting. Exact language can be viewed in the Commission’s full Interim Report.
Governor Northam also signed House Bill 1519, sponsored by Delegate Delores McQuinn, establishing a commission to study slavery in Virginia and subsequent racial and economic discrimination. The Commission will be comprised of 11 members, including three legislative members and eight non-legislative citizen members, and will make recommendations to Governor Northam and the General Assembly on appropriate remedies.
“Virginia’s Confederate monuments were erected as symbols of a dangerous Jim Crow era,” said Senator Mamie Locke. “It is past time we told a more complete story of our history and works to build a Commonwealth that values everyone—no matter who you are.”
“Today marks an important step towards a more equitable and welcoming Commonwealth,” said Delegate Delores McQuinn. “Virginia’s history is difficult and complex, and it is important that we tell the full and true story of our past 400 years. These new laws will make our Commonwealth better, and I am grateful for the Governor’s leadership in signing them into law.”
“Virginia’s Legislative Black Caucus has advocated on these issues for decades,” said Delegate Lamont Bagby, Chair of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus. “Today I am thinking about all those who came before us, and what this means for the black Virginians who have struggled, and continue to struggle, in the pursuit of justice and equity. I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with Governor Northam to make these laws a reality in our Commonwealth.”
“For more than 400 years, we’ve consciously oppressed and celebrated painful parts of Virginia’s past at the expense of those who are haunted by it the most,” said Dr. Janice Underwood, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. “With these laws, we are charting a new path for our Commonwealth—one that begins to tell a more complete story of who we are and honors our diversity as our greatest strength. I am very proud to be part of an administration that is committed to doing this work.”
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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.