In this Town Talk, Mike McCool sat down with Rick Logan and Chuck Brome from the South Warren Ruritan Club to discuss their annual flower basket fundraiser, a beloved community tradition. This year’s sale is scheduled for May 11th, and the club is excited to offer beautiful hanging baskets sourced from Spring Garden Greenhouse in Singer’s Glen, Virginia.

The South Warren Ruritan Club, known for its commitment to local causes, has a history of successful fundraising events, including its annual spaghetti dinner. While attendance was lower this year due to competing events, the dinner still provided leftover food to the House of Hope and featured a new musical group, Chicken and Dumplings, to entertain guests.

The flower basket fundraiser features 13-inch mixed flowers and 10-inch variety baskets with a single flower variety. Prized for their beauty and quality, these baskets are often snatched up quickly. The sale occurs in the Ramsey Hardware parking lot, with baskets available from around 9 a.m. until they sell out. Prices range from $30 to $45, and the proceeds support local nonprofits such as House of Hope, Blue Ridge Opportunities, and Special Olympics.

The fundraiser allows the community to support worthy causes while enjoying beautiful flower baskets. The South Warren Ruritan Club invites potential volunteers to join their efforts, emphasizing the rewards of community service and camaraderie at their monthly dinner meetings. With a strong tradition of giving, the club looks forward to welcoming new members who share their passion for helping others.

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 topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

Mike McCool sat down with Avery Harper and Susan Hrbek from the Phoenix Project to discuss the organization’s impactful work. Despite its significant contributions, the Phoenix Project often flies under the radar. The organization provides essential support for survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Front Royal and Warren County.

In July 2023, the Phoenix Project achieved professional accreditation from the Department of Criminal Justice Services, signifying its commitment to high standards in administration, crisis intervention, advocacy, and community engagement.

The Phoenix Project has a 24/7 hotline for survivors and collaborates with local police to immediately assist those in need. The organization offers transportation services for clients needing to reach various locations, including courthouses and medical facilities. It also provides language and interpretation services to non-English-speaking clients.

The top reasons people contact the Phoenix Project include crisis intervention, counseling, criminal justice information, and referrals to other services. The organization maintains strict confidentiality, and its website features a quick exit button to protect the privacy of those seeking help.

The organization relies on grants and fundraising to operate. One notable fundraiser is a Mother’s Day basket raffle, with tickets available online or at their office. The Phoenix Project also hosts a popular wine pull event.

The Phoenix Project will celebrate its 10th anniversary in May with a public event. The organization has provided shelter for many survivors, including women, children, and men, who face domestic or sexual violence. Their work highlights that such violence affects people from all walks of life.

In January 2023, the Phoenix Project expanded its services to include a sexual assault program, with a dedicated advocate providing support and education.

The Phoenix Project’s services are free and confidential, helping survivors of all genders. The organization encourages anyone in need of assistance to call, whether they are experiencing physical violence or other troubling relationship dynamics. The Phoenix Project is a vital resource in the community, offering support and safety to those in need.

For more information, please 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 topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

The Samuels Public Library’s annual fundraising event, Taste for Books, themed “British Invasion” this year, witnessed an unprecedented turnout, bringing the community together for a night of themed costumes, classic British dishes, and unique games like tee pong. Held last week, the event served as a cultural festivity and exceeded its fundraising goals, amassing over $25,000 to support library programs and services.

In this Town Talk, Machal Ashby and Grace Green, affectionately known as the library ladies, discussed the overwhelming success of the event and the exciting activities planned for May. The duo expressed their delight at seeing first-time attendees and veterans diving into the British theme, sporting everything from mod outfits to Scottish kilts.

The library’s May calendar is bustling with activities tailored for all ages. Among the highlights are the monthly Bad Romance Book Club, which will tackle sports-themed literature, and Books and Beyond, exploring nature-related reads. The Genealogy Club continues to engage history buffs, while the What the Tech sessions offer tech assistance every Tuesday, proving invaluable for those needing help with modern gadgets.

The library has planned engaging educational activities for the younger audience, including a Bird ID and photography event at Shenandoah River State Park and a Free Comic Book Day at Main Street Geek, promising fun giveaways. The Children’s Garden will also host a special event, “Unpacking the Garden with Wee Ones,” facilitated by master gardeners to teach children about planting and caring for gardens.

Looking ahead to the next big theme, the library has already announced “Movie Magic” for next year’s Taste for Books, promising an evening of Old Hollywood glamour. This forward-looking approach and enriching programs underscore the library’s commitment to fostering a vibrant community spirit and a love for learning across all ages.

In anticipation of summer, the library also teased the upcoming Summer Reading Club, which traditionally attracts over a thousand young participants and several hundred adults. The kickoff event will feature face painting and a petting zoo, ensuring it’s not just about reading but creating a memorable community experience.

As the library gears up for these events, it continues to be a cornerstone for community engagement in Front Royal, showcasing the power of books and shared experiences to bring people together.

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 topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

Front Royal-Warren County Airport is gearing up for its anticipated “Wings and Wheels” event, a community celebration that combines the thrill of aviation with the charm of classic cars. Scheduled for Saturday, May 11th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., this event promises a day full of activities, showcasing aircraft and vintage automobiles, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Julie van Jaarsveld and Sean Roe, from the airport team, shared insights into the day’s festivities, which will kick off with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Friends of Front Royal Airport at 8 a.m. The breakfast is an excellent opportunity for early risers to fuel up before diving into the day’s activities.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of aircraft displayed on the ramp, offering up-close photo opportunities and the chance to interact with pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Food vendors, including Buffalo Wild Wings and DonutNV, will be on-site to cater to culinary tastes, while the social highlight of the morning, a pancake breakfast, promises a delicious start to the festivities.

The event isn’t just about viewing planes; it includes a car show that awards prizes for the “farthest traveled” and “People’s Choice,” both for airplanes and cars. The local skydiving team will also perform demonstration jumps, adding an adrenaline-pumping element to the day. For those intrigued by skydiving, discounted tandem jumps will be available post-event, and raffles will offer chances to win skydives and discovery flights.

The “Wings and Wheels” isn’t merely a fun day out; it’s a showcase of the airport’s value to the community, often unrecognized. As Sean noted, the airport is a crucial hub for general aviation and plays a significant role in local tourism and the economy. The event aims to highlight these contributions and strengthen community ties through shared interests in aviation and automobiles.

Whether you’re an aviation aficionado, a car enthusiast, or just looking for a unique way to spend a Saturday, the “Wings and Wheels” event at Front Royal-Warren County Airport promises to deliver an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to explore the wonders of flight and the beauty of classic cars in the scenic backdrop of Front Royal, happen on May 11, 2024.

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 topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

Nancy Smith, a remarkable athlete who recently completed her 24th consecutive Boston Marathon, shared her inspiring journey and motivations in an interview at the Royal Examiner studio. With the 128th Boston Marathon behind her, Nancy celebrated her physical accomplishment and substantial contributions to cancer research.

Nancy was sporting a collection of medals as a testament to endurance and dedication. This year, she ran as part of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge, raising awareness and funds for innovative cancer research. Over nine years, Nancy has raised almost $66,000, with her efforts this year adding $11,575 to the cause.

The Boston Marathon is not just a race; it’s a beacon for participants like Nancy, who run for a cause greater than themselves. She runs in memory of Brooke, a young girl who lost her life to neuroblastoma cancer at age 12. Each year, Nancy’s participation in the marathon serves as a tribute to Brooke and a means to support ongoing cancer research, making each step on the pavement meaningful.

This year’s marathon was particularly challenging due to unseasonably warm temperatures, making it the warmest marathon day since 2017. Despite these conditions, Nancy and thousands of others persevered, supported by the enthusiastic cheers of spectators along the 26.2-mile course and the extensive medical support available to the runners.

The Boston Marathon, a historic event requiring qualification or charity sponsorship for participation, not only tests physical stamina but also embodies a spirit of community and support. Runners from all walks of life come together to push their limits and raise funds for various causes, making it more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of human spirit and resilience.

As Nancy looks forward to her 25th consecutive marathon next April, she aims to join the elite “Quarter Century Club,” a significant milestone that underscores her commitment to the sport and her cause. Her story is a powerful reminder of one person’s impact, combining physical endurance with heartfelt philanthropy and inspiring us all to think beyond the finish line.

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 topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

In a recent interview at the Royal Examiner, Connie Marshner, the newly elected chairman of the Planning Commission and a noted author, delved into the fascinating themes of her latest book, “Monastery and High Cross: The Forgotten Eastern Roots of Irish Christianity.” The book explores Ireland’s early Christian history, influenced significantly by Eastern Mediterranean cultures, particularly from Alexandria, Egypt, and Armenia.

Marshner’s research, which spanned four years, including two for her master’s degree and two dedicated solely to this project, reveals that St. Patrick was not the first Christian in Ireland. This distinction sets the stage for her comprehensive study of the less-known yet profoundly impactful connections between Irish and Eastern Christian practices.

The cover of her book, adorned with a Celtic cross set against a backdrop of Egyptian hieroglyphs, visually encapsulates the blend of cultural influences that define early Irish Christianity. Marshner states this period was marked by unity among Christians before the divisions into Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox beliefs. Her book traces these connections back to the third century, highlighting the significant role of Egyptian monks who sought solitude and spirituality away from the burgeoning theological debates in Alexandria, a pivotal intellectual hub of early Christianity.

Marshner pointed out architectural and archaeological similarities, such as the beehive-shaped, dry stone huts on Skellig Michael, which resemble structures found in the Egyptian desert. These similarities support her thesis of a trans-Mediterranean connection to Ireland, bypassing the Roman influences due to Ireland’s non-incorporation into the Roman Empire.

The scholarly work in “Monastery and High Cross” also draws attention to the survival of apocryphal gospels in Ireland, texts that were forgotten or ignored elsewhere in Europe. This aspect underscores the unique preservation of ancient religious texts and practices in Irish monastic life, which remained vibrant and distinct from the broader Christian practices of the time.

Connie Marshner’s dedication to uncovering these historical connections is evident in her rigorous compilation of evidence and her detailed discussion of the implications of these findings for understanding the broader spectrum of Christian history. She hopes this book will inspire future scholars to explore the rich yet under-examined field of Hiberno-Coptic studies.

“Monastery and High Cross” is available on Amazon and SophiaPress.com, promising readers a deep dive into the entwined histories of Eastern and Irish Christianity, brought to life through Marshner’s passionate research and compelling narrative.