Town Talk
Town Talk: A conversation with A.D Carter III & Rev. Al Woods – Martin Luther King Jr
In this Town Talk, our publisher Mike McCool speaks with A.D. Carter III and Rev. Al Woods. With the Martin Luther King Jr holiday approaching, we wanted to honor the legacy of King and focus on the issue of civil rights, the use of nonviolence to promote change, and to call people into public service.
As we pause to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, a ” drum Major for Justice”, and a “Civil Rights Icon” on the 17th of this month, he would have been 94 years old.Rev. Woods said, “King’s message is still relevant today after 54 years, marching for and protesting the right to the ‘ballot box’ for ALL citizens, an issue which continues to be discussed today. Progress has been made…but there is still a long way to go.”
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied, but hopefully interesting. If you have an idea, topic, or want to hear from someone in our community, let us know. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
About Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. (born Michael King Jr. – January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968) was an American Baptist minister and activist who became the most visible spokesman and leader in the American civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. King advanced civil rights through nonviolence and civil disobedience, inspired by his Christian beliefs and the nonviolent activism of Mahatma Gandhi. He was the son of early civil rights activist and minister Martin Luther King Sr.
King participated in and led marches for blacks’ right to vote, desegregation, labor rights, and other basic civil rights. King led the 1955 Montgomery bus boycott and later became the first president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). As president of the SCLC, he led the unsuccessful Albany Movement in Albany, Georgia, and helped organize some of the nonviolent 1963 protests in Birmingham, Alabama. King helped organize the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
On October 14, 1964, King won the Nobel Peace Prize for combating racial inequality through nonviolent resistance. In 1965, he helped organize two of the three Selma to Montgomery marches. In his final years, he expanded his focus to include opposition towards poverty, capitalism, and the Vietnam War.
In 1968, King was planning a national occupation of Washington, D.C., to be called the Poor People’s Campaign, when he was assassinated on April 4 in Memphis, Tennessee. His death was followed by riots in many U.S. cities. Allegations that James Earl Ray, the man convicted of killing King, had been framed or acted in concert with government agents persisted for decades after the shooting. King was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1977 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2003. Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established as a holiday in cities and states throughout the United States beginning in 1971; the holiday was enacted at the federal level by legislation signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1986. Hundreds of streets in the U.S. have been renamed in his honor, and the most populous county in Washington State was rededicated for him. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., was dedicated in 2011.
Town Talk
Town Talk: Experience the magic of Petty Betty Treats at local summer events
Welcome to another edition of Town Talk, where today we bring you the delightful story of Liz Coffey, the creative force behind Petty Betty Treats, LLC, a local sensation right here in Front Royal, Virginia.
Unfamiliar with Petty Betty Treats? You’re in for a treat. Picture the most mouth-watering, dairy-free fruit butters and fruit punches, made fresh – on-site at summer events. These delicious goodies are more than a tasty snack; they are versatile food companions that transform ordinary cream cheese or peanut butter into something extraordinary and take any nearby beverage to a new level of refreshment.
What started as a local business making delightful treats has evolved into so much more. Nowadays, Liz not only attends a multitude of events but also offers her expertise to help other organizations plan and market their events. With a seasoned event team, Petty Betty Treats handle everything from vendor selection to social media promotion, ensuring a flawlessly executed event that attendees will undoubtedly love.
Upcoming events where Petty Betty Treats will feature include the Campfire Country Fest on Saturday, June 10, 2023, a full-day music festival coupled with a vendor market. You can enjoy Petty Betty Treats while grooving to country music from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. And if you want to extend the fun, overnight accommodations are available at 570 Kendrick Lane in Front Royal.
But that’s not all! The Summer Fest Market & Fair on Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, will also feature Petty Betty Treats. The event is hosted at the Front Royal Volunteer Fire & Rescue located at 221 N Commerce Ave, Front Royal.
For those who just can’t get enough, Petty Betty Treats also attends the DL Community Market. The next date is May 20th. The market is open on the 3rd and 17th of June, 1st and 15th of July, 5th and 19th of August, 2nd and 16th of September, 7th and 21st of October, and brings the season to a close on the 4th and 18th of November. The operating hours for the market are 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Want to learn more or are interested in getting Petty Betty Treats to boost your event? Reach out to Liz Coffey at pettybettytreatsllc@gmail.com. With Petty Betty Treats on board, your celebration is sure to reach the next level!
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea or topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
Town Talk
Local author, Justin Ruger, shares fascinating journey, book signing at Royal Oak Bookshop
On June 10th, local author, Justin Ruger, is set to sign his books at the Royal Oak Bookshop from Noon to 3 pm. Ruger is the creator of “Henry Meets a Honey Bee” and “Henry Meets a Honey Pot Ant,” captivating books that reflect the author’s personal journey and his deep affinity for the natural world.
The path to authorship for Riger was not an easy one. Having initially pursued a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics at Catholic University, his life took a dramatic turn following a car accident in 2015 that resulted in a traumatic brain injury and loss of his prior academic knowledge. As he grappled with depression and changes to his eyesight, his mother offered an iPad as a tool for expression. This sparked Ruger’s love for art and set him on a new path.
In 2016, Ruger’s family opened the Hippie Chick Apiary, and he found joy in learning about and caring for honey bees. This interest led to an observation that children’s books lacked information about the roles of a beehive. This gap sparked the inception of his first book, “Henry Meets a Honey Bee.”
“Henry Meets a Honey Bee” introduces children to the roles and significance of honey bees in nature. Henry, the protagonist, is transformed into a honey bee and embarks on an enlightening journey, offering young readers an immersive and educational experience.
Despite suffering a stroke in 2020 that temporarily paused his writing, Ruger was imbued with resilience, resumed his work, and finally published the book in 2021. He dedicated the book to his late aunt, Shirley Chaney Lawrence, who had always encouraged him to succeed and complete his work.
“Henry Meets a Honey Pot Ant,” Riger’s second book, is based on the research of the late Betty Tewell. The book takes Henry on another educational journey, this time to Colorado’s Garden of the Gods, where he learns about the fascinating lives of honey pot ants.
These books stand as a testament to Riger’s resilience and his belief that physical challenges should not limit one’s ability to contribute meaningfully to society. Both books are available on Amazon.
Ruger’s upcoming book signing at the Royal Oak Bookshop is a chance for readers to meet the author behind these uniquely inspiring and educational books. The event is open to all and a remarkable opportunity to witness first-hand the resilience and creativity of an author who turned adversity into a source of motivation and inspiration for others.
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Town Talk
Town Talk: Front Royal Treatment Center – A conversation with Steven Quackenbush, Executive Director
In this town talk, our publisher Mike McCool speaks with Steven Quackenbush. Steven is the Executive Director of the Front Royal Treatment Center in Front Royal.
The Front Royal Treatment Center’s mission is to combat opioid addiction and assist those wrestling with the crippling grip of substances such as opioids, heroin, and synthetics like fentanyl. Furthermore, this center provides crucial support for individuals dependent on prescription painkillers like oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), codeine, and morphine.
The Front Royal Treatment Center’s modus operandi is unique, as they function as an outpatient opioid treatment program (OTP). The center offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT), employing the use of methadone and buprenorphine (Suboxone) as part of their strategic intervention to alleviate opioid use disorder. This not only treats the physiological symptoms of addiction but also paves the way for a more sustainable recovery process.
What sets the Front Royal Treatment Center apart is its commitment to personalized treatment strategies. Following an exhaustive clinical evaluation by a team of seasoned addiction treatment experts, patients receive a tailor-made treatment plan. This comprehensive plan not only covers the medical aspect of their addiction but also educates patients about substance use disorders. The center also offers psychoeducational programming and life skills training, ensuring that the path to recovery extends beyond the clinical setting.
Trauma-informed care is another pillar of the center’s approach. Recognizing that addiction often stems from unresolved trauma, the center ensures that its treatment modalities address these underlying issues. Additionally, they provide robust relapse prevention support to minimize the risk of patients falling back into old habits.
The Front Royal Treatment Center also champions the vital role of familial support in the recovery process. With a keen understanding of how addiction affects familial relationships, the center offers family counseling and family dynamics treatment, aiming to mend strained relationships and foster a supportive environment for the patients. Their ultimate goal is to improve the lives of their patients and restore the bonds within their families, thus creating a solid foundation for long-term recovery.
Front Royal Treatment Center is located at 10269 Winchester Road, Front Royal, VA 22630
To find out more, call (540) 551-4056 or click here to visit their website.
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea or topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
Town Talk
Town Talk: Incident involving Hilda J. Barbour Elementary staff members sparks investigation and concern
In a special edition of Town Talk, our publisher Mike McCool sat down with Tyler Wright, a concerned parent whose children were involved in a notifiable incident at Hilda J. Barbour Elementary School in early May. The incident, which took place on May 4th and 5th, resulted in a teacher and an aide being placed on leave pending an investigation.
According to Tyler, he was not notified about the incident until May 9th, at which point he was assured that the matter was being thoroughly investigated. Seeking answers and clarity, The Royal Examiner reached out to various key figures for comments. Sheriff Mark Butler, Warren County School Board members Melanie Salins and Ralph Rinaldi, as well as Warren County School Superintendent Dr. Chris Ballenger, each expressed deep concern about the incident but emphasized that it remains an ongoing investigation, withholding official comments at this time.
“A thorough and fair investigation is the cornerstone of justice. Every incident that comes to our attention is taken seriously, and we strive to ensure each one is thoroughly investigated,” Sheriff Butler said.
Dr. Chris Ballenger, the Superintendent of Warren Public Schools, added, “Once the investigation is entrusted to the sheriff’s department, the school refrains from interfering with the sheriff’s probe. The sheriff’s office was alerted promptly by school staff regarding a possible incident involving a student. Any communication regarding the sheriff’s investigation will emanate from the sheriff’s office, not the school. We are restricted in what we can disclose about an investigation. When a complaint is lodged, WCPS always takes appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the classroom. Parents were reached out to on the third business day of the investigation, and then again the subsequent week by school staff.”
Ballenger also noted, “Parents are naturally curious, and while we wish we could provide more information, we are constrained in what we can reveal or do about any ongoing investigation.”
Tyler Wright shares his concerns about the incident in an exclusive Royal Examiner video, shedding light on the emotional impact it has had on him and the other parents involved. As the investigation progresses, it is hoped that transparency and a resolution will be achieved to address the concerns of all parties involved.
The Royal Examiner will closely monitor the developments of this case and provide updates as new information becomes available.”
Town Talk
Town Talk: The One-Stop-Shop for Travel and Entertainment in the Shenandoah Valley – A conversation with Dedrick Brooks, SSMG
In this Town Talk, our publisher Mike McCool speaks with Dedrick Brooks, owner of Shenandoah Shores Management Group. Dedrick has started a new concierge service in town that’s taking the Shenandoah Valley by storm. Shenandoah Shores Management Group LLC, or SSMG for short, is all set to redefine travel convenience. And here’s the best part – it’s not just for the rich and famous. It’s for anyone who wants to be treated like a superstar!
If you’re a wine enthusiast, then SSMG has got you covered with their wine tours across some of Virginia’s most breathtaking vineyards. And if you’re more into nature, you’ll be thrilled to know they have vacation rental options just minutes from Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive. But wait, there’s more! They also offer party and event planning services. It’s a one-stop shop for all your travel and entertainment needs.
Now, let me introduce you to the man behind this innovative venture – Dederick L. Brooks. Here’s a guy who has served our nation in the U.S. Marine Corps for 20 years, with roles as an Inventory Management Specialist, Supply Chain/Materials Management Specialist, and Recruiter. And he’s not just a man in uniform. He’s a scholar too. Dederick has a Bachelor of Science in Management with honors from American Military University and a Master of Science in Human Resources from Troy University.
During his time in service, Dederick’s impressive performance earned him several promotions, and in 2012, he was named the Recruiter of the Year for the Western Recruiting Region. He managed logistics and finance for missions in places as far-flung as Japan, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
And get this, while serving as the Recruiting Station Springfield Supply and Logistics Chief, Dederick was directly in charge of 70 government fleet vehicles and 35 recruiting facilities. And amidst all this, he was also managing his first Airbnb property. Talk about multi-tasking!
In 2021, Dederick moved to Virginia and quickly spotted a gap in the market. He saw the lack of reliable transportation services in the Shenandoah Valley, and instead of just complaining about it, he decided to do something. So, on Valentine’s Day, 2022, Shenandoah Shores Management Group LLC was born!
So, travelers and event-goers, if you want to experience the Shenandoah Valley like never before, make sure you get in touch with Shenandoah Shores Management Group. Dederick and his team are ready to serve you!”
Click here for more information and to contact SSMG.
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea or topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
Town Talk
Town Talk: Double Header Event – A conversation with Sam Barber, Reaching Out Now/Peoples Inc.
In this town talk, our publisher Mike McCool speaks with Sam Barber. She’s wearing two hats today – the first is People Inc, where she is the Director of Community Engagement, and from Reaching Out Now, where she is the Founder and President, a nonprofit that serves under-resourced families in the Warren County public school system.
Sam has several things to discuss in this session. First up is the Bridging the Digital Divide forum on Tuesday, May 16, at the Samuels Public Library at noon. Next is the Safe at Home 2023 Community Day on May 27 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Bridging the Digital Divide
People Incorporated, a key community organization, is hosting a series of community forums titled “Bridging the Digital Divide.” The objective of these forums is to engage with community members directly and understand the challenges they face in accessing broadband internet and digital devices.
These forums are open to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for community members to voice their concerns and contribute to a critical discussion on digital access. Attendees will also be able to win raffle prizes, and complimentary food will be provided.
The feedback collected during these forums will be pivotal in shaping the Commonwealth Digital Opportunity plan. This plan, being developed in partnership with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, aims to tackle digital accessibility issues on a statewide level.
Registration is encouraged for these forums but is not mandatory. The forum schedule and respective registration links will be updated regularly. We invite community members to check back frequently for the latest updates.
People Incorporated is committed to addressing digital disparity and believes these forums will be a significant step towards understanding and eventually bridging the digital divide in our community.
Click here for more information.
Safe At Home 2023: The Un4Gettable Series’ Community Day
Warren County is excited to announce the ‘Safe At Home 2023: The Un4Gettable Series’ Community Day, a special event dedicated to celebrating baseball, community spirit, and the memory of two beloved Skyline High School students. The event will occur at Bing Crosby Stadium on May 27, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Community Day will feature three exhibition baseball games showcasing athletes from the Warren County baseball community. The schedule includes games from the Front Royal Little League, athletes from the current WCPS Baseball Programs, and a match between WCHS and SHS Alumni. Attendees will also enjoy children’s games, a 50/50 raffle, and various food and drink options at the concession stand.
Students from Warren County and Skyline High School will actively support the event, assisting with stands and entries. Entry to the event is $5 (plus fees) for adults, while children aged 13 and under are admitted for free.
This year, the event will honor the memory of Harlee Hire and Nathan Jenkins, two cherished students from Skyline High School. Proceeds from the event will fund scholarships for athletes from Warren County and Skyline High Schools and benefit the House of Hope – Front Royal, VA.
House of Hope is a vital community program that offers shelter, food, and guidance to homeless men committed to making permanent, positive life changes. The program works closely with each client, developing proactive plans to help them re-enter society as productive citizens with stable housing.
Click here for more information.
About People Incorporated: People Incorporated is a community-based organization dedicated to empowering individuals and enriching communities. With a strong focus on bridging digital disparities, the organization collaborates with various stakeholders to create inclusive digital environments for all.
About Safe At Home 2023: The Un4Gettable Series The Un4Gettable Series is an annual community event celebrating local athletes and fostering community spirit. Proceeds from the event are used to fund scholarships and support community initiatives like the House of Hope.
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea or topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
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