Local News
Warren County student awarded scholarship through the Comcast Foundation’s Leaders and Achievers Program
30 Virginia high school seniors — including Kaley Foulks of Warren County High School in Front Royal — were awarded scholarships through the Comcast Foundation’s annual Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program. The Program, one of the Foundations’ signature community impact initiatives, recognizes outstanding community service, academic performance and leadership skills.
Comcast, joined by The Honorable Lashrecse Aird, 63rd District, Virginia House of Delegates, recognized the students at a special event held at the Virginia State Capitol on Wednesday, May 15.
Below is the full press release, which includes additional details about the program, as well as a list of students who received a scholarship.
COMCAST NBCUNIVERSAL AWARDS $82,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO 30 VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS | Leaders and Achievers® Scholarship Program Recognizes Students’ Achievements Both In and Out of the Classroom
RICHMOND – May 16, 2019 – Comcast NBCUniversal today announced that it has awarded approximately $82,500 in scholarships for the 2019-2020 school year to 30 Virginia students as part of its annual Leaders and Achievers® Scholarship Program. Students are selected for their outstanding community service, academic performance and leadership skills. The award, funded by the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation, is a one-time, $2,500 scholarship to be used toward undergraduate education-related expenses. Since 2001, more than $33 million has been awarded to nearly 30,000 high school seniors across the country as part of the Leaders and Achievers program.
“Our Leaders and Achievers scholarship winners are exceptional students who are committed to excelling in their academic excellence and community service,” said Mary McLaughlin, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s Beltway Region. “We are honored to recognize their achievements and excited to support them as they continue their educational journeys.”
Comcast, joined by The Honorable Lashrecse Aird, 63rd District, Virginia House of Delegates, recognized the students at a special event held at the Virginia State Capitol on Wednesday, May 15. One student, Emma Evans, a resident of Staunton and student at Riverheads High School, was selected to receive an additional $7,500 Comcast Founders Scholarship — instituted in honor of Ralph J. Roberts, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Comcast Corporation.
“Congratulations to all of the Leaders and Achievers scholarship recipients,” said Atif Qarni, Virginia Secretary of Education. “I am proud of each of you and your academic accomplishments as well as your commitment to serving your community and peers. Thank you, Comcast, for recognizing these talented students and for your commitment to helping further their education with these scholarships.”
The Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program provides scholarships to students who strive to achieve their full potential, who are catalysts for positive change in their communities, who are involved in their schools, and who serve as models for their fellow students. The philosophy behind the program is to give young people every opportunity to prepare for the future and to engage them in their communities. The program also demonstrates the importance and value of civic involvement, especially by the business community.
Visit here to learn more about the program.
2019 Comcast Leaders and Achievers® Scholarship Recipients from Virginia
Alexandria
Jasmine Vargas of St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School*
Arlington
Anne Felipe of Wakefield High School
Esinam Fynn of Wakefield High School
Augusta County
Emma Evans of Riverheads High School in Staunton
Sarah Watson of Stuarts Draft High School
Chesterfield County
Jonathan Coleman of Matoaca High School in Chesterfield
Angel Pajimola of Clover Hill High School in Midlothian
Natalee Wilson of Wilson Christian Academy in Midlothian
Culpeper County
Mikayla Jenkins of Eastern View High School in Culpeper
Danville
Hannah Anderson of George Washington High School
Fairfax County
Ian Hansing of South Lakes High School in Reston
Hassan Osman from Lorton*
Fauquier County
Meredyth Rankin of Fauquier High School in Warrenton
Frederick County
Gina Alfred of John Handley High School in Winchester
Fredericksburg
Arianna Verbosky of Stafford Senior High School
Henrico County
Kamryn Owen of Highland Springs High School
Clara Pettus of John Randolph Tucker High School in Henrico
Hopewell
Dajuan Wilkins of Hopewell High School
Loudoun County
Praneeth Penmetsa of Rock Ridge High School in Ashburn
Lynchburg
D’Arrin Calloway of Heritage High School
Manassas
Lubna Azmi of Stonewall Jackson High School
Petersburg
Treyvion Hall of Petersburg High School
Prince William County
Alyssa Alexander of Woodbridge Senior High School
Richmond
Micah Hunter of Grove Christian School
Raquel Turner of Richmond Community High School
Rockingham County
Emily Villacrusis of Turner Ashby High School in Bridgewater
Salem
Abigail Coleman of Salem High School
Stafford County
Sarah Schaefer of North Stafford High School
Tazewell County
Jazmin Scarberry of Graham High School in Bluefield
Warren County
Kaley Foulks of Warren County High School in Front Royal
*Indicates winners of NBCUniversal Award
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company with three primary businesses: Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, and Sky. Comcast Cable is one of the United States’ largest video, high-speed internet, and phone providers to residential customers under the Xfinity brand, and also provides these services to businesses. It also provides wireless and security and automation services to residential customers under the Xfinity brand. NBCUniversal is global and operates news, entertainment and sports cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, television production operations, television station groups, Universal Pictures, and Universal Parks and Resorts. Sky is one of Europe’s leading media and entertainment companies, connecting customers to a broad range of video content through its pay television services. It also provides communications services, including residential high-speed internet, phone, and wireless services. Sky operates the Sky News broadcast network and sports and entertainment networks, produces original content, and has exclusive content rights. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
About Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation
The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation continues the work of the foundations founded by Comcast Corporation and NBCUniversal to provide charitable support to qualified non-profit organizations. The Foundation invests in programs intended to have a positive, sustainable impact on the communities we serve. Its mission is to empower communities to thrive by helping to provide access to technology, relevant digital skills and training, and inspiring volunteerism and service. The Foundation invests in programs intended to have a positive, sustainable impact on the communities we serve. More information about how Comcast NBCUniversal supports the communities it serves is available at comcast.com/community.
Local News
Blue Ridge Hospice Founder Helen Zebarth Honored at Berryville Ceremony
Helen Zebarth of Winchester, founder of Blue Ridge Hospice some 45 years ago, was honored with the formation of the Helen Zebarth Legacy Society, consisting of 16 high-end contributors who will help ensure the future of Blue Ridge Hospice.
The Berryville ceremony of May 8 was attended by most all of the newly elected members of the society, featuring not only new members of the Legacy but staff and volunteers, including former hospice chaplain Susan O’Kelly, now a part-time hospice volunteer, who led off the ceremonial with an invocation followed immediately by welcoming remarks by hospice President and Chief Executive Officer Jason Parson.
Joining Helen and her husband Roger Zebarth as founding members of the Legacy Society were Steven Allen, Ewan and Maybell Campbell, Susan B. and Richard A. Casey, Dawn Draayer, hospice’s Director of Philanthropy, Mr. and Mrs. Scott Jenkins, Gary Lambert, Margaret M. Myer, Michael Ricketts, and Dr. Leonard Yang and Janet Yang. All received framed certificates denoting their Legacy Society membership.
Helen Zebarth said she brought the idea of establishing a hospice in the area from a stay in England in the 1970s while her husband, a U.S. Army veteran, was based in Europe. England, evidently, is where the hospice concept originated a half-century or more ago.
While paying tribute to Blue Ridge Hospice’s large band of volunteers, board Chair Richard Kennedy described Helen as “our shining star.” Helen said she decided at the time that on her return from the United Kingdom, “We need a hospice in Winchester.” And so, in 1974, the hospice opened there with 30 patients. By 2014, 10 years ago, Blue Ridge Hospice had tended to some 10,000 patients in “end of life care” — and the number kept climbing.
Local News
Police and Youth Engagement: Building Bridges for a Stronger Future
Across America, police departments actively engage with young people through various programs designed to foster mutual respect, understanding, and trust between law enforcement officers and their communities. These initiatives not only aim to educate youth about the roles and responsibilities of police officers but also strive to empower the next generation through mentorship and positive interactions. Here are some notable efforts:
Explorer and Cadet Programs
These programs are pivotal in introducing the youth to the intricacies of law enforcement. Young participants engage in hands-on activities under the guidance of experienced officers, gaining a firsthand look at what the life of a police officer entails. More than just learning about the job, these programs are about cultivating leadership skills and understanding the importance of civic responsibility.
Police Athletic Leagues (PALs)
PALs are crucial in bridging the gap between police officers and young people through sports and educational activities. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment where youth can interact with officers outside the traditional law enforcement setting. Activities range from basketball and soccer to tutoring sessions designed to encourage teamwork and personal development.
Summer Job Programs
With an emphasis on professional growth and skill development, summer job programs sponsored by police departments offer young people a chance to earn while they learn. These opportunities are about making money and understanding the value of hard work, commitment, and community service, with police officers often serving as mentors and role models.
School Resource Officers (SROs)
SROs are more than just security personnel in schools; they are counselors and mentors who significantly shape the educational environment. Their presence in schools ensures safety and fosters a nurturing setting where students can focus on learning and growth. By interacting daily with students, SROs help demystify the role of law enforcement and promote a culture of safety and respect within the school community.
National Police Week
National Police Week, observed from May 12 to 18, is an opportune time to engage with these initiatives. Many police departments host open houses, workshops, and meet-and-greets this week, providing families and youth an insider’s view into the positive impact of these community-oriented programs.
The proactive efforts of law enforcement to connect with youth underscore a commitment to positive community relations and the nurturing of the next generation. Participating in these programs gives young people valuable insights and experiences that can profoundly influence their personal and professional development. As these relationships strengthen, communities grow safer and more cohesive, illustrating the profound impact of collaboration and mutual respect between police officers and the youth they serve.
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Local News
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.