Town Talk
Town Talk: A conversation with Tammy Sharpe, Kimberly Lynch and Crystal Cline, Phoenix Project – Domestic Abuse Awareness Month
In this Town Talk, our publisher Mike McCool speaks with Tammy Sharpe, Kimberly Lynch, and Crystal Cline from the Phoenix Project about Domestic Abuse Awareness Month and several fund-raising events planned to support the Phoenix Project.
The Blue Ridge Shadows Golf Club at 456 Shadows Drive, Front Royal, will be the host of the 7th Annual Wine Pull, which gets underway on October 20, 2022.
Lunch and Learn will be each Wednesday in October, you are invited to meet (with your lunch) at the Front Royal Police Department at 900 Monroe Ave, Front Royal, from noon to 1 pm for lunch and learn. Topics for the rest of the month of October include:
- October 12 – The Connection between Homelessness & DV, Agency Services to Homelessness in Victims. Presenter – Avery Harper
- October 19 – Legal System Navigation for Clients and Services we offer. Presenter – Candy Dixon
- October 26 – Domestic Violence and Children – How they are Affected and our Services. Presenter – Kristen Gregg
October was first declared as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in 1989. Since then, October has been a time to acknowledge domestic violence survivors and be a voice for its victims.
Domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. Physical violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, systematic pattern of dominance and control. Domestic violence can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. The devastating consequences of domestic violence can cross generations and last a lifetime.
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. If you have an idea, or topic, or want to hear from someone in our community, let us know. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
Town Talk
Connie Marshner Unveils the Eastern Mediterranean Origins of Irish Christianity in New Book
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.
Community Events
Front Royal Gears Up for 9th Annual Family Fun Day with a Focus on Community and Tradition
Front Royal is buzzing with excitement as the community prepares for the 9th Annual Family Fun Day, a cherished tradition that brings together families, local artisans, and performers to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend (May 11th) with flair and festivity. This year’s event promises a vibrant mix of activities, including a beloved local crawfish boil, bringing a taste of Louisiana to Virginia.
As the brainchild of local personalities William Huck (aka Crazy Wyllie) and his wife and partner Nina, Family Fun Day has grown from a simple gathering into a major community event. Now in its ninth year, the day is meticulously organized to foster community spirit and celebrate local culture. “Life is too short not to live it to the fullest,” says Crazy Wyllie, who is known for his energetic presence and deep community ties.
The festival kicks off with a parade featuring local groups and colorful floats, setting the stage for a day filled with music, dance, and family-oriented activities. Among the highlights are the crawfish boil, which sells out annually, and various workshops and demonstrations ranging from Frisbee golf to blacksmithing.
This year, approximately 55 vendors, most of whom are from Warren County, will showcase their crafts, contributing to the event’s local flavor. This focus on local talent is a pivot from past practices, aiming to promote community-based economic growth and celebrate regional artisans.
The entertainment lineup is as eclectic as it is exciting. It includes performances by the Jig and Jive Dance Studio and Music Mountain School, promising a day filled with dynamic entertainment. “I love to dance,” admits William, who also participates in the dance performances, adding a personal touch to the festivities.
Family Fun Day is more than just a celebration; it’s a philanthropic event that gives back to the community. Proceeds from the day are donated to local non-profits, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the local community that extends beyond a single day of fun.
“The stronger we are together, the stronger we are unstoppable,” William reflects on the community’s cohesion. This sentiment echoes through the event’s planning, emphasizing inclusivity and mutual support.
As Family Fun Day continues to grow, so does its impact on Front Royal. From revitalizing local traditions to fostering economic and cultural growth, the event is a cornerstone of community engagement. With each passing year, it weaves deeper into the fabric of local life, promising to be a source of joy and community pride for years to come.
Town Talk
Teamwork, Faith, and Rugby: Christendom College’s Winning Combination
The Christendom College rugby team, represented by players Dominic Di Falco, a senior from Amersham, Buckingham (England), John Kennedy, a senior from Cooperstown, and Coach Jim Conrad, shared insights into their tight-knit squad’s ethos and their unique blend of athleticism and camaraderie. Founded in 2006, the team has grown in size and spirit, accumulating several championship titles and becoming a pillar of Christendom College’s athletic program.
The team’s journey is a tale of persistence and strategic finesse, often resembling a chess match more than a mere physical showdown. Rugby at Christendom College is as much about mental strength as physical agility. According to Coach Jim, preparing for a rugby match involves careful coordination and mental training, ensuring all players are synchronized in their strategies and movements.
Dominic and John elaborated on their roles on the team, which vary dramatically between the 15-player games and the faster, 7-player matches. Their responsibilities shift from heavy physical engagement in scrums to rapid, strategic plays across the field. This flexibility in roles highlights the dynamic nature of rugby and the adaptability required of its players.
The Core of Christendom Rugby: Faith and Community
A central theme in Christendom College’s rugby program is its foundation in faith. Regular prayers and team masses are routine, fostering a strong community spirit and shared purpose. This spiritual base helps players find deeper meaning in their sport and maintains morale during challenging times.
The integration of faith and sport at Christendom College is a draw for many players, including international students like Dominic, who moved from England to join the team. This blend of cultural diversity and shared values creates a rich, supportive environment beyond the rugby field.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Championships
As the team prepares for their upcoming national championship games, their focus is razor-sharp. The tournament format, intense and demanding, will test their endurance and teamwork. Yet, with their rigorous preparation and unified strength, the Christendom College rugby team is a formidable contender on the national stage.
In discussing the future, Dominic and John see rugby as more than a game. It has taught them resilience and leadership—qualities they plan to carry into their future careers and personal lives. For Coach Jim, continuing to build the team’s legacy through recruitment and training is a priority, aiming to maintain their competitive edge and close-knit culture.
At Christendom College, rugby is more than just a sport; it is a journey of personal growth, a test of faith, and a celebration of community. As they head into another season, the team remains a symbol of what can be achieved when talent meets spirit and dedication.
Town Talk
A Mother’s Faith and Perseverance: Adriana Stollard’s Story of Hope and Healing
In a recent Town Talk at the Royal Examiner, Adriana Stollard shared the poignant story of her daughter Abigail’s challenging journey into the world—a tale of faith, medical marvels, and a mother’s unwavering love, now encapsulated in her book, “ This narrative not only explores the complexities of her daughter’s medical condition but also reflects the deep personal growth and relentless hope that has defined Adriana’s life since Abigail’s birth.
Adriana’s pregnancy complications escalated quickly, requiring her to be airlifted twice to UVA Hospital due to severe bleeding and imminent labor risks. These frightening experiences culminated in a precarious but successful delivery at 34 weeks. Abigail was born with a rare genetic condition known as 22q duplication syndrome, which manifested in significant physical complications, including a severely recessed jaw that affected her airway.
The resilience of both mother and child was tested through multiple surgeries and ongoing medical treatments. Abigail’s condition required innovative surgical techniques to reconstruct her jaw using a piece of her rib, a procedure that had never been performed on a child before. This medical journey was not just a fight for health but also a profound testament to the possibilities within pediatric care and genetic research.
The book Abigail’s Journey is more than a medical story; it is a narrative of overcoming dire medical prognoses and embracing life’s unpredictabilities with faith and courage. It chronicles the emotional and spiritual trials Adriana and her family faced, their moments of doubt, and their return to faith.
As Adriana discussed her book and shared her story, it was clear that she aimed to offer hope to others facing similar challenges. With upcoming book signings and discussions, she is determined to spread a message of resilience and hope to other families navigating the complexities of rare genetic disorders and the healthcare system.
Abigail’s Journey is not just a recount of medical events; it’s a mother’s affirmation of life, a family’s testament to surviving against the odds, and a community’s support system embodied in medical teams’ dedication. It serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of faith and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Click here to see her upcoming book signing.
Local News
Samuels Public Library Receives Generous Mellon Grant and Preps for ‘Taste for Books’ Event
The Samuels Public Library, under the leadership of its new Executive Director, Erin Rooney, has recently been endowed with a substantial $500,000 Mellon grant, earmarked to revolutionize its facilities and services over the next five years. This exciting development paves the way for significant enhancements to the library’s memory lab and the establishment of a cutting-edge maker space, offering community members unprecedented access to advanced technologies like 3D printers, laser cutters, and sewing machines.
Amidst growing demand for digitization of vintage media formats, such as 8mm film and vinyl records, the grant will bolster the library’s capacity to preserve these cherished analog memories. Rooney highlighted the urgency of digitizing at-risk formats to safeguard them from deterioration, thus ensuring their longevity for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
The introduction of a maker space within the library premises signifies a leap toward fostering creativity and innovation in the community. This initiative will facilitate personal and collaborative projects and encompass educational programs to enhance skill sets, ranging from crafts to technology.
A Taste for Books
In addition to technological advancements, the library is buzzing with anticipation for its annual fundraiser, “A Taste for Books.” Slated for April 27th, this year’s British Invasion theme promises an evening brimming with cultural enrichment. Attendees can look forward to exploring sections dedicated to British legends, lyrics, and literature, with decor and activities inspired by icons like The Beatles, Sherlock Holmes, and the magical world of Harry Potter.
This gala event not only serves as a testament to the library’s vibrant community spirit but also as a crucial fundraising endeavor. The proceeds from ticket sales and a silent auction featuring unique items and artwork will directly support the library’s ongoing and future programs, including the expansion of the memory lab and maker space projects.
The Mellon grant and upcoming “A Taste for Books” event underscore the Samuels Public Library’s commitment to preserving the past while embracing the future. By fostering a space for technological innovation and cultural appreciation, the library continues to be a cornerstone of community engagement and learning.
Join us on April 27th to celebrate and support the enriching initiatives at the Samuels Public Library. Your participation contributes to a noble cause and promises an unforgettable journey through Britain’s storied legacy right in the heart of our community.
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
Town Talk
Christendom College Women’s Basketball Team: A Story of Triumph and Unity
The story of the Christendom College women’s basketball team’s triumphant journey to their first national championship unfolds. With the national trophy as a testament to their victory, Coach Mary Minick detailed the dedication and unity that propelled their team to the pinnacle of USCAA Division II basketball. Their remarkable achievement at the championship in Petersburg, Virginia, wasn’t just a win but a historic moment for the college, solidifying its place in the annals of collegiate sports history.
The Christendom Crusaders, under the guidance of Coach Mary, embarked on a season filled with determination and a quest for excellence that saw them set a school record with a 23-5 regular-season performance. Their journey through the USCAA National Championship Tournament was nothing short of cinematic, with the team ranked seventh, defying odds by toppling the top seeds one after another, culminating in a decisive 76-65 victory over Johnson & Wales Charlotte. This series of upset victories demonstrated their resilience, strategic brilliance, and the immense talent within their ranks.
Catherine Thomas and Mary Pennefather emerged as central figures in this saga, leading the team in points per game and embodying the spirit and dedication required to achieve such a feat. Their performances, alongside their teammates, were a testament to the rigorous preparation and the collective effort that defined their season. The championship game was a showcase of their hard-earned prowess, with a balanced attack that saw contributions from across the roster, including standout performances from Regina Bonvissuto and Miranda Keller, who were instrumental in securing the win.
This victory was about bringing home a trophy, laying a foundation for future success, and establishing Christendom College as a formidable presence in women’s basketball. It highlighted the importance of a cohesive team spirit, the pursuit of academic excellence, and the integration of faith in their journey, aspects that Coach Mary and her team emphasized as central to their identity. The support from the college community, the athletes’ dedication, and the coaching staff’s strategic acumen all converged to create a memorable championship run that will inspire future generations.
As the team looks ahead to next season, with the core of their championship team returning, the prospects are bright for the Crusaders. Their summer plans, focused on development and preparation, reflect a commitment to maintaining their championship caliber and striving for continued excellence. This story, rich with dedication, community support, and athletic achievement, is a compelling narrative of how belief, hard work, and unity can turn dreams into reality.
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