Community Events
Humane Society’s ‘Polar Plunge’ rescheduled to Saturday, March 13
The Humane Society of Warren County “Polar Plunge” delayed from February 20 due to “too-polar” weather here in northwestern Virginia has been rescheduled to Saturday, March 13 – Don’t worry, it will still be a “Polar Plunge” because it’ll still be winter then, though hopefully for the plungers with a continuation of the current turn toward spring-like 60 degree temperatures! In its inaugural year of 2020, the event became a popular fundraiser supporting the Humane Society’s efforts on behalf of the local animal community and the HSWC’s Julia Wagner Animal Shelter.
As reported in the original press release on the event: this year’s “plunge” is made possible through the sponsorship of City National Bank, Cool Techs Heating and Air, Ellen Aders State Farm, AirPac, MDUB Chauffeur Services and Cavalier Kennels. This year’s event is expected to help raise as much as $12,000 for the Humane Society.
There were 35 plungers initially signed up to take a dip in the icy water, each working to help raise much-needed funds for homeless animals in Warren County. There are 15 new plungers, and 20 returning plungers who will all run into the Culpeper Lake at the 4-H Center, followed by a warm-up at the fire pit.

Polar plungers plunge into last year’s event at the 4-H Center lake in Harmony Hollow in southern Warren County – ‘Baby, it’s cold in there’. Courtesy Photos HSWC
The event team will be ensuring that all CDC Covid-19 guidelines are followed, and masks will be required at this outdoor event.
In 2020, pre-pandemic, the top fundraiser was Molly Llewellyn, who raised over $1,000 for the shelter. There was also an award for best dressed. Both of these awards will be returning for the 2021 event.
The Humane Society of Warren County is a non-profit animal shelter that houses homeless, neglected, abused and unwanted animals. While primarily dealing with cats and dogs, the shelter has also been home to livestock, birds, reptiles and more.
Executive Director Meghan Bowers avoided taking the plunge last year, but is leading the charge into the water in 2021 dressed as a shark, so far raising about $467 from friends and family.
Hot drinks, Strites Donuts and music will keep participants warm during the run up and aftermath of the short but stimulating plunge.
For more information on this event or others, please visit HSWC Events Page.
Community Events
WCRC Committee members rally together to beautify local streets for community event
In a proactive measure to improve the appeal of the local community and foster a clean and inviting environment, the Warren County Republican Committee recently embarked on a mission to revitalize a portion of Commerce Street (from South to Criser) and Short Street through a thorough cleaning initiative. This endeavor aimed to uplift the streetscape and prepare the area for an upcoming weekend festival, uniting community members in their dedication to creating a more vibrant and attractive Warren County.
Recognizing the pivotal role of cleanliness in shaping the overall experience for residents and visitors alike, the committee’s efforts were met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the community.
Their investment of time and energy was driven by the desire to inspire a sense of ownership and instill a lasting commitment among residents to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of their community long after the festival weekend.
Equipped with gloves, garbage bags, brooms, and dustpans, participants worked tirelessly to rid the streets of litter, debris, and any unsightly elements accumulated over time. Ensuring the safety of all involved, the committee distributed reflective vests and emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic regulations during the clean-up process.
Thanks to all who help make our community vibrant and attractive.
Community Events
Swing into summer: Café Royale hosts swing dance battle
Swing dance enthusiasts and beginners alike are cordially invited to a night of high-energy social dancing and friendly competition at Café Royale, located at the Manor Line’s Back 40, 18 High Street, Front Royal, on Friday, June 16th, from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. This lively event will include a beginner lesson, an open floor, and a Mix N’ Match Swing Dance Battle with cash prizes on offer.
A Night to Remember: Dance, Compete, Celebrate
The doors open at 6:45 pm, and the evening kicks off with an East Coast Swing Lesson from 7:00 to 7:30 pm, welcoming newcomers to the swing dance community. The dance floor will then be open from 7:30 to 8:30 pm for all to showcase their moves, followed by the much-anticipated Swing Dance Battle from 8:30 to 9:00 pm. The dance floor reopens for another hour of fun from 9:00 to 10:00 pm.
Amidst all the dancing and competition, participants can unwind and mingle while enjoying cocktails, beer, wine, and Café Royale’s other delectable offerings available for purchase.
Join the Dance Battle or Cheer from the Sidelines
The Mix N’ Match Swing Dance Battle encourages friendly competition, with exciting cash prizes up for grabs. Anyone interested in competing can register via this form.
Tickets are priced at $12 in advance and can be purchased from Eventbrite. For those who prefer to decide on the day, tickets can be bought at the door for $15 (cash only). Spectators are also welcome to come and support their favorite dancers.
From ages 18 to 80+, everyone is encouraged to don their casual attire and come to enjoy a night of thrilling dance. No partner is required, so don’t hesitate to join solo!
Community Events
Cornerstone Christian Fellowship holds community yard sale
On Saturday, June 10, 2023, the Cornerstone Christian Fellowship will be opening its grounds for a community yard sale, offering an opportunity for locals to come together, exchange goods, and strengthen bonds within the community.
A Day of Fun, Frugality, and Fellowship
Scheduled from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, the yard sale promises a full day of bargain hunting and community engagement. Located at 8292 Winchester Road (Highway 522), the Church’s central position offers easy accessibility to all residents.
Whether you’re looking for hidden treasures, hoping to declutter your space, or simply seeking an enjoyable day out in the community, this yard sale could be just the ticket. Attendees will have the chance to find everything from antique furniture and decorative items to clothing, books, toys, and more.
Strengthening Community Bonds
The yard sale isn’t just about exchanging goods. It’s also an opportunity for the community to come together in a relaxed, fun environment. Events like these enhance the sense of togetherness and community spirit that Cornerstone Christian Fellowship is proud to foster.
So, come and join us on June 10 at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship. Who knows what treasures you might find, what connections you make, or what memories you create?
Community Events
Experience the joy of sharing a meal and building connections at Valley Assembly of God Church
Valley Assembly of God Church will host a heartwarming event to unite the local community. On Saturday, June 10th, the church will open at 4:30 p.m. starting at 5:00 p.m., and guests will enjoy a scrumptious free community meal. This much-anticipated event is not only an opportunity for the residents of Middletown and nearby communities to enjoy a delicious dinner but also a chance to foster a sense of unity and togetherness.
The menu for the evening includes a delectable array of dishes sure to tantalize taste buds. Attendees will enjoy mouthwatering fried chicken and classic sides such as potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans. The meal will also include a freshly baked roll, a refreshing drink, and a delightful cupcake to top it all off. Valley Assembly of God Church, under the leadership of Pastor Jamie Zirkle, is renowned for its commitment to quality, and guests can expect nothing less than a flavorful and satisfying dining experience.
In the spirit of community and generosity, the church will accept free-will offerings from attendees. This gesture allows individuals to contribute to the event according to their means and support the church’s ongoing efforts to unite the community. The Valley Assembly of God Church, led by Pastor Jamie Zirkle, has a long-standing tradition of providing aid and support to those in need, and this event further reinforces their commitment to serving the community.
Situated at 2376 4th Street, Middletown, VA 22645, the church provides a welcoming and accessible venue for the community meal. With its spacious facilities and warm atmosphere, Valley Assembly of God Church creates the perfect setting for neighbors, friends, and families to come together and enjoy a shared experience.
The event organizers, including Pastor Jamie Zirkle, are enthusiastic about the impact this gathering will have on the community. Pastor Zirkle expressed his excitement, saying, “We are thrilled to host this community meal and have the opportunity to unite people. We aim to create a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy a delicious meal and build lasting connections within the community.”
Community Events
This week’s showtimes at Royal Cinemas as of June 8th
Are you looking for the full movie-going experience without having to wait in the long lines that often accompany that experience? Then look no further because Royal Cinemas movie theatre is the answer. Get the whole gang together and enjoy a movie! Reserved seating in all auditoriums.
Here is a list of this week’s showtimes at Royal Cinemas as of Thursday, June 8th:

• Thursday: 1:05, 4:15, 7:35
• Fri-Wed: 1:05, 4:10, 7:15
Rated PG | Run Time: 2 hr 15 min

• Thursday: 1:00, 4:10, 7:30
• Fri-Wed: 1:10, 4:20, 7:30
Rated PG | Run Time: 2 hr 20 min

• Thursday: 1:10, 4:25, 7:45
• Fri-Wed: 1:00, 4:15, 7:30
Rated PG13 | Run Time: 2 hr 21 min
Ticket prices are as follows:
- Adult: $10
- Child (under 12): $7
- Military: $8
- Student (college): $8
- Senior: $8
- Matinees, All Seating: $7
- 3D: add $3
COMING SOON:
- “Elemental”
- “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1”
- “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny”
- “Barbie”
Community Events
Understanding and responding to opioid overdoses: Free REVIVE! training and Naloxone distribution
In response to the escalating fentanyl poisoning crisis, the Northwestern Prevention Collaborative, in partnership with Northwestern Community Services Board, is making a powerful move. In the coming weeks, they will provide two free virtual REVIVE! Training classes aimed at empowering individuals with the skills to recognize, respond to, and effectively intervene in opioid overdose scenarios.
Opioid overdoses are an increasingly pervasive problem, taking lives and shattering communities. The disturbing trend of fentanyl-laced “pressed pills” disguised as prescription medications, such as Adderall, Percocet, and Oxycontin, has resulted in a rise in overdoses nationwide. This concern affects us all, and a collective, informed response has never been more necessary.
To arm the community with the knowledge and tools needed to combat this crisis, the Northwestern Prevention Collaborative is hosting two online classes on Friday, June 30th, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm and Wednesday, July 5th, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Participants will learn to recognize an opioid overdose, respond appropriately in an opioid emergency, and administer the life-saving drug naloxone.
Beyond the invaluable training, attendees will also receive two free doses of Narcan, an emergency treatment for suspected opioid overdoses, mailed to them directly after the class. Registration for these sessions is open to everyone and can be done via nwprevention.org/revive-training.
The training is particularly beneficial for individuals with personal or familial history of opioid use, as well as workers in public spaces or businesses where overdoses might occur. By equipping these individuals with the necessary knowledge and resources, we can build a community defense against the ongoing opioid epidemic.
As the threat of opioid overdoses looms large, these REVIVE! training classes serve as a beacon of hope, underscoring the power of education and community action in combating the crisis. With each trained individual, we move one step closer to turning the tide against the devastation of opioid overdoses.
To find out more or to register for this training, visit their website.